Dear Editor,
Re: “Spending a year in Winnipeg last weekend,” Retirement column, June 23, 2017.
I’m somewhat flabbergasted by Shelley Civkin’s column, because I visited the ‘Peg a few years ago (many years after leaving there at age 12) and I was impressed by how gracious and well-maintained the city was.
Some of the highlights we enjoyed were Grand Beach, about one hour outside the city, which is famous for its vast white sand dunes.
We took a cruise up and down the Red River which provided us with a clear view of some beautiful properties.
We visited the acclaimed Assiniboine Zoo, which was designed by a protege of the famous landscape architect Olmsted.
We visited the Children’s Museum where I spotted two famous American actors, who were also there with their children.
We went back and surveyed the suburb Charleswood where I grew up with beautifully landscaped yards on generous half-acre lots.
We visited my brother, who lived on a lovely seven-acre property just outside of the city — this would be completely unaffordable anywhere near Vancouver. We dined at the renowned steak house called Ray and Jerry’s and had a luscious steak dinner.
We visited the area around the Parliament buildings, which is gorgeous when lit up at night.
Everywhere we went, the properties we saw had immaculate lawns and impressive landscaping, even the more humble homes. And we found the people friendly and accommodating.
Shelley, next time you visit, you need to venture out a lot more.
All cities are boring if you don’t take the time to explore them.
Julie Chan
Richmond
