Concerns about increasing rec fees

Dear Editor,

It was with some interest that I read of the possibility of higher rec fees for those living outside Kamloops.

This idea was discussed by city council over 20 years ago & set aside.

Why would the city attempt to “tax” non residents who spend money on gas to arrive in Kamloops to shop, eat, and attend sporting and cultural events?

It would be valuable to hear an opinion from the business community.

Pat Kaatz
Kamloops

Homelessness is rarely a choice

Dear Editor,

I just wanted to send on my thanks and appreciation of Tara Copeland’s article regarding the misconceptions of the homeless shelters in Kamloops.

I found it very informative and I sincerely hope enough people read it and come to understand the variety of misinformation/misunderstandings there are regarding the clients at these facilities.

We all need to be reminded that there are more to these citizens than their current circumstances and who knows what challenges ANY of us might face during our lives.  It is so very easy to judge and assume — but don’t we ALL deserve understanding and kindness when / wherever we can.  

We need to be reminded that these are people and homeless should be an adjective and not a noun, and it is rarely ever a choice. 

Please pass on my thanks to Tara!

Valerie Robinson
Kamloops

Dispelling misconceptions

Dear Editor,

It is because of fantastic coverage by journalists like Tara Copeland that we can correct misinformation about our vulnerable population who are living in poverty and commonly with trauma.

Tara’s article titled Local association tackles misconceptions of homeless shelters in Kamloops, dispels the often stated message that ‘bus loads’ are shipped here from other communities, and that the homeless are addicted and ‘just need to stop doing drugs’ so their lives will get better.

Tara points out the complexities of our homeless population and offers a window (by actually talking to them) into several people’s lives to make it more easily understandable, as to why they are homeless.

As a retired teacher, I appreciate articles that help us understand others as a way to be a more compassionate community.

Thankyou for this A+ and often difficult work, Tara!

Troylana Manson
Kamloops

What’s the plan for parking?

Dear Editor:

An open letter to the City of Kamloops planning department, re: parking downtown.

Parking downtown can be an adventure at times, especially during “high interest” events. Ground has been broken on the new Centre for the Arts, with the loss of a significant parking facility. When the Centre is completed there will be parking for 158 vehicles, for a maximum attendance in the theatre of 1100. Even if each vehicle has four people in it there will be a significant shortfall in parking opportunities.

The new apartment complex being built at First and Columbia has no allocated parking for future residents.

My question is this. What is the planning department’s parking plan for the peace of mind of people who live downtown, or who are coming downtown and not using public transit?

Curious minds need to know.

Nick Jordan
Kamloops

Thankful for a young man’s kindness

Dear Editor

I was in the Independent Grocery store on the North Shore a few weeks ago to pick up a few things and there was a young man ahead of me. As he paid for his groceries, the belt continued moving forward and the cashier picked up my things.

I said, no, stop those are mine. But the young man said that was okay he was paying for them. I thanked him and he left.

I was very sorry I didn’t get his name, but the cashier was as shocked as I was. I would like to thank him again and wish him and his family the merriest of Christmases. Kudos to his parents who raised a great son. 

PS I think I might have reminded him of his grandma. Thanks again from an 82-year-old lady that appreciated your thoughtfulness

Sharon Mattson
Kamloops