Rotary says thanks for the community support at annual book sale
Sir: Recently the Rotary Club of Sarnia Bluewaterland completed its 15th annual Used Book Sale at Bayside Centre.
We are happy to report 2,300 people attended the three-day sale and raised $28,000 for Rotary projects. Increasing literacy is one of Rotary’s mandates, and customers purchasing more than 26,000 books assured us that the people of Sarnia valued our efforts.
The event was an excellent example of people working together. We could not have held the sale without the help of many organizations and individuals including Rotarians from the Sarnia, After Hours and Grand Bend Clubs.
A huge ‘Thank You’ to the Sarnia community for supporting our annual Rotary event. Sincerely,
Camilla McGill
Rotary Club of Sarnia Bluewaterland
Voting increase in last municipal election something to celebrate
Sir: A quick response to the Jan. 14 letter by R.B. Browning, “Why Sarnia’s next election should return to paper ballots.”
I agree with the writer that telephone and Internet voting worked, but not the assertion that it didn’t increase the number of voters in a major way.
An additional 11.8% of eligible voters took the opportunity to cast their vote last October. I realize percentage increases can be misleading, but if you look at the actual numerical voter count increase, the increase was real.
I couldn’t find the actual number of eligible voters in 2014, but given the demographics of the city, I doubt we’d find a large increase or decrease.
So I would estimate there was a real numerical increase of 5,ooo to 6,ooo voters, and I think such an increase is something to celebrate.
Whether voters are moral or not is a personal choice. It’s more a reflection on the individual then on the voting system for municipal elections.
If people cheat on elections, then they cheat in their personal life. It really isn’t up to elections to provide moral instruction.
I usually think people are inherently good and will do the correct action. When the number of cards that arrive in the mail is different then the number of voting citizens living there, the proper action is evident.
Wayne L. Pease
Sarnia
Flooded fountain in Canatara Park is a pedestrian hazard
Sir: Canatara Park is possibly Sarnia’s most remarkable feature. From the Tarzanland bike trails to the beautiful beaches, there are delights for all to enjoy.
The Children’s Farm, ride-on train and seasonal hay rides, the Bandshell with summer concerts, Lake Chipican, with wading birds, turtles and water plants.
Throughout the park are benches and in spring and summer the flowerbeds are gorgeous and well maintained.
But —and isn’t there always a “but?” — the footpath beside the “fountain” pond is subsiding and has become a hazard.
Depending on the season, it’s covered in mud, water or ice, forcing one to walk on the road.
I have found drivers to be courteous by slowing down, but a nearby bend makes the situation hazardous.
Seniors are encouraged to keep fit to cut provincial health costs and most of us would prefer walking in the park to being in ER.
I have called City Hall and spoken with the manager of works, who assured me the matter is not on the agenda. I contacted MP Marilyn Gladu, who replied quickly but said it’s not in her jurisdiction.
Mayor Mike seems very busy these days, so I’m putting this out to “whom it may concern.” Thank you.
Peggy Turner
Sarnia