Opinion

Canada lost a political heavyweight with the death of Jack Layton this week. The leader of the federal New Democratic Party was sometimes controversial, often outspoken and always respected.

The Editor, On Monday, Aug. 15 at 7: 30 p.m., my husband and I were watching our eightyear-old son Sidney take his first run down the easy slope at the bike park at the foot of No. 2 Road. What happened next was horrifying.

The Editor, Unleashed dogs in parks are a nightmare to those who are scared of dogs. Many parks in Richmond require dogs to be leashed at all times, however the majority of dog owners let their dog roam freely around the park.

Our provincial government is to be commended for releasing a new map this week outlining areas of British Columbia that will become potential floodplains as ocean levels rise this century.

Everybody's talking about Jack this week. I don't want to take away from the accolades and adulation aimed at his huge political achievements. Because his achievements have been huge.

The Editor, Re: "Name change no royal pain," Opinion, Aug. 19. Oh, how little you know! Your comment, "which really just amounted to changing names and standardizing uniforms" is pure hogwash.

The Editor, NDP leader Jack Layton's sudden death is a great loss to Canada in general and the New Democrats in particular. During his three decades of public service, Layton always fought for social justice for ordinary people.

In the 18th century, wealthy nobles and merchants would sometimes take a tour through the countryside, maybe for business reasons, maybe just because they were getting into the newfangled fad of appreciating nature.

What's all the kerfuffle about changing the names of some of Canada's armed forces anyway? If adding "Royal" to the Canadian navy and air force monickers suits the folks who actually wear the uniforms and serve our country so outstandingly well .

The Editor, I would like to offer kudos to the summer volunteers and employees that are involved with kids of all ages. From tots to teens, youngsters have been engaged in all kinds of sports and activities.