Opinion

Editor: I am writing to express concern with the truck traffic along East Columbia Street between Braid Street and the south end of Brunette Avenue, where it connects with Columbia.

“I had the best day.” That’s an expression we’ve been hearing a lot lately from our seven-year-old son. Coincidently, it merged with his return to school in New Westminster.

The Downtown New Westminster Business Improvement Association has put its promotional machine into overdrive lately. The BIA is a good source of information about what businesses are reopening with new protocols during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As we continue to adapt to the extraordinary changes brought upon our daily lives by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is worth stepping back every now and then examine the mounting data associated with the virus’ impact on British Columbia.

Our province has done well in flattening the curve of the spread of COVID-19 infections compared to other communities throughout North America. We owe much to the wise leadership of Dr. Bonnie Henry and Minister of Health Adrian Dix.

Editor: Recently, the media has been full of reports critical of police departments all over North America.

Dear Editor, There is no doubt the COVID-19 pandemic is serious and creates challenges. But it also brings out the best in people. I am age 70 and immune-compromised (MS), so in the high-risk group.

The Editor: One of the “benefits” during the pandemic is arguably the saving on hair cutting —regrettably, at the cost of the barbers’ income, of course.

Editor: Police should not be allowed to investigate police. Public complaints must have “truly” independent civilian oversight that has the power to discipline and dismiss any police officer at any level.

Editor: When shopping in New Westminster, please have patience. With other shoppers. With employees of businesses you frequent. Have respect for other shoppers. For employees of businesses you frequent. Plan your shopping ahead of time.