Letters to the Editor

Canada is the envy of many nations for many reasons. But lately, our wealth and prosperity have become guilty pleasures for Canadians. It is difficult to enjoy prosperity when there is hardship and heartbreak all around.

To the editor: As a long time fan, you reach a point where you have had enough of all of the politics of hockey.

Thunder Bay endured six homicides in 2012. Pending recovery in hospital, that number could grow as high as eight. In all likelihood, the city will regain the title of Canada’s murder capital. This sounds bad, and it is.

The foundation of any successful community, culture or lifestyle is built on diversity, respect and open-mindedness. I strongly believe that music is a powerful tool that unites people regardless of their background or beliefs.

As the Tragically Hip once sang (and hopefully will do so again on Jan. 29 at the Gardens), it’s the start of another new year.

Two eagles circled in a cold, sunny, winter-solstice sky, high above the Idle No More rally at Spirit Garden, Thunder Bay. This is true. At the same time a young Aboriginal speaker was telling us that, “We’re all treaty people”.

There is a small group of Canadians known as “Christmas year-rounders” who spend 12 months of the year preparing for the big day. They never miss a Boxing Day sale and they buy their gift wrap in early January.

No, guns don’t kill people. But people who have easy access to them do. For decades the United States has resisted any move toward gun control, the population clinging to the Second Amendment like a religion.

A special interest group in Sweden thinks that little boys and little girls should be treated exactly the same.

To the editor: This past Monday, a petition with more than 500 signatures was presented to city council advocating the preservation of the wooded area behind the Lakehead Psychiatric Hospital as green space.