With the unusual gap since my last letter, this lifetime Gazette fan has a bit of a list, a mix of “onions orchids” if you will.
Firstly, about that dangerous intersection at Spraggett and Highway 3: with multiple lanes plus pedestrian crossings converging in less than optimum visibility, and numerous collisions over the years, isn’t it time for a traffic light?
Secondly (with my kids now older than the new prime minister, no wonder I’m out of touch), it’s escaped my notice that GFSS (my venerable Alma Mater, no less!) seems to have traded its library for a work-out gym!
Kids need all the exercise they can get, but it shouldn’t be a trade off. Studies show there’s no substitute for reading, especially at a younger age, for developing essential mental faculties and the creative potential of the brain.
Yes, there’s a lot of info on the Net, but not the kind of in-depth treatment you get in a book, and nobody will ever convince me that an e-reader can equal reading with the sensual texture of the book in your own hands!
Luckily, we have some local back-up options, an excellent public library and bookshops. Sandy Einarson has a particularly enticing stock of new and gently read books, for all ages, at the Pedaller’s Place (in their old Contact Photo building on Market Avenue), where you’ll also be amazed at the nifty “folding bike” that’s sold (worldwide!) by Sandy’s husband Bill Wilby.
More “orchids”: a hearty debt of gratitude to Roy Ronaghan! He entertains and informs on much of local interest, and is a strong, consistent voice of conscience when it comes to major topics of the day, notably our environment.
We tend to deny and detract about difficult challenges in society, but those who face up to the realities are the true heroes of our time. Roy continues in the noble tradition of many others in the Boundary; perennial eco-activist Don Pharand comes to mind, as does my former fellow-columnist, Norm Reynolds, now ex-resident…
Re: ex-residents, my wife and I were deeply touched by Leslie Davidson’s letter (Aug. 19, 2015 Gazette—and kudos to your staff for the featured placement!). Leslie and husband Lincoln Ford epitomize what makes our community great and all those who’ve known them over the years will miss them and wish them well.
As some move on, others come in—Spencer Tracy (what a great name!) voiced what many others feel in regard to the need for less sniping and more harmony in dealing with serious issues (Sept. 23, 2015 Gazette).
And, finally, when is Milton Orris going to resume his delightful autobiographical forays into local nostalgia?
– Jim Popoff, Grand Forks
