The Editor:
I write in response to two letters to the editor in the last few weeks.
One: on Tuesday of this week I noticed a family having lunch in the little downtown park, so I take exception to the comment that it's a useless little park. It is often used by people to stop and have a chat, read a book or have a bite to eat. Having said that, I understand the writer's concern about Westview Park and I will take those comments to the Leisure Services Advisory Board. I would also encourage her to get involved, join the committee and help us make all of our parks useful areas of the city for our citizens to enjoy.
Two: if my comments regarding the tragic pedestrian accident caused offence, I do apologize. My heart goes out to the family of the victim, as well as the driver and his family; I do know first hand that a moment of poor judgment, inattention or carelessness can result in a lifetime of regret. Having said that, I will not apologize for my belief that our streets are not as safe as they should be, and that speed and inattention (cellphone use in particular) are contributing to preventable accidents.
It is our police chief, Del Block, that put forward a request for speed reduction to 40 km on residential streets. City council has chosen to put it to referendum during this fall's election, and I would encourage all of our citizens to pause for a moment and think about safety and the value of life before they check yes or no. There is nowhere in Estevan (unless you are stopped by a train) that you can't be in five to seven minutes. Does a minute one way or the other really matter if the difference might save the life of a pedestrian, cyclist or driver?
Like Mr. Saxon said - slow down out there.
Lynn Chipley,
Estevan, Sask.
