I'll admit that last year, I didn't even know there *was* a Canada day; but as my social circle increasingly includes "out" Canadians, I'm learning more about who's Canadian (William Shatner! Peter Jennings! NEIL YOUNG), Canadian alcohol (Crown Royal, Seagram's), and days commemorating great events in Canadian history, such as ... Canada Day.

My close association with several Canadians qualifies me to be your interpreter, American reader, and your guide to Canadian culture. Below follow some important facts about Canada.

Did you know...

...that a Bloody Mary is called a Bloody Caesar? And comes with Clamato juice and a celery salt rim? (Of course some recipes for Bloody Marys suggest Clamato)?

...that Canada Day was originally called "Dominion Day"? and that in Quebec it coincides with "Moving Day"?

...that the "Maple Leaf" national flag was adopted on February 15th, 1965, a day that is now commemorated as National Flag Day?

...that Canadians (except those from Quebec) look and, in many cases, sound almost exactly like Americans?

In any case, remember to buy your favorite Canadian a refreshing beer this evening in honor of Canada Day. If you're not sure which of your friends is secretly Canadian, try this simple test: Announce, "I'm going to Tim's, want anything?"

If they reply, "Who's Tim?" they are American.

But if they say "Oh, get me a donut," they are TOTALLY CANADIAN. You're welcome.

O Canada! Happy Birthday to you!