I’m attending a conference in Dallas, and I can’t tell you how exciting this Mortgage Servicing Conference is. Knocking back tequilas while talking about fractured services, portfolio analysis and vendor management.  Oh, I could go on but would rather not come across being braggadocios. All kidding aside, we’ve meet some wonderful people, and given the scale of their business, it’s a little humbling.  And of course, everything seems bigger in Texas.

For the short period of time that I’ve been in Dallas, I’m really impressed.  I’m sure locals could care less what I think, but they sure are friendly here.  There really is something about Southern hospitality.  It’s not just a figure of speech or a myth – it’s real, and it’s a shame it can’t be exported.

I’m attending the conference with a number of my colleagues, so there’s no shortage of laughter and bravado.  Like when we ask cab drivers, do they own a gun?  So far, no one has said no.  They love their guns down here. There are signs in most establishments stating it is illegal to carry a concealed weapon without a license (the operative word being unlicensed).  Every time I’m in an establishment in the U.S. I can’t help but wonder how many people are packing heat. That does impact behavior.  When I drive in Florida, I never suffer from road rage.  I don’t go off the deep end while driving at home but I’m the model of calm and tranquility when driving in Florida. No point in flipping someone the bird when they might have a handgun ready under their seat.  I was reading USA today that Georgia just changed their gun laws to now permit weapons to be carried in some government buildings, schools and bars. What could possibly go wrong with that?

I would never be presumptuous enough to preach to American’s that their love of guns is folly.  It’s their country, and their right.  It’s just so different from what we’re used to.  Now, what isn’t different is the taste of Grey Goose and soda.  One awaits me, and a really cool looking pocket protector.

Until next time,

Cheers.

I think most of we’re shocked and surprised to hear about the passing of former Finance Minister, Jim Flaherty.  There was speculation he decided to leave the Finance Department for health reasons, he was afflicted by a rare skin disease.  He denied the claims, and simply said that it was time to pursue opportunities in the private sector.  Today, his reason for leaving and stepping aside is moot, and it’s sad he didn’t have an opportunity to share moments with his family, when they were so close to getting him back.

I think it’s safe to say the late Jim Flaherty made many sacrifices.  Being Finance Minister is not a part-time job.  When you’re responsible for managing the country’s economy and budget, you can probably say goodbye to the nine to five work days.  His efforts and dedication to public service will shape his legacy.  We can quibble about all the changes to mortgage rules under his stewardship, but I think we are all better off today because of his steady hand while steering us through the global financial crisis.  In the grand scheme of things our economy bounced back rather smoothly after 2008; Canada was able to avoid much of the pain other economies endured.  That did not happen by accident. 

 I had the opportunity to meet with Mr. Flaherty on a number of occasions.  I always found him to be engaging and attentive.  He reached out to many business sectors because he wanted to hear firsthand what the needs of the day were. He reached out to our industry and learned the importance of the mortgage broker industry.  He took the time to meet with stakeholders in our industry when it would have been easy for him to say no need, I know better.  He allowed our voice to be heard, and he appreciated the contribution we make to home ownership in Canada.  His approach was a first for our industry, and for that we should all be grateful.  I know I am.

 God speed.