Opinion

Dear Editor, The year, 2016, is just about over and a brand new year will be on the horizon soon. This year has been rather exceptional for Richmond. There have been many issues, celebrations and controversies.

According a recent BMO report on charitable giving, 52 per cent of wealthy Canadians choose to donate to charities to which they have a personal connection.

The Richmond News’ Book Club team ­from Richmond Public Library — Helen Varga, Steven McCreedy, Rachel Rosenberg, Christine McCrae and Lee Anne Smith — have some festive suggestions for last-minute gifts.

Christmas is the time of lights. Colourful lights are everywhere and with daylight in such short supply, it seems we are in darkness more than not.

Back in the good old days, families would take axe in hand, trek into the local forest and cut down the perfect Christmas tree.

Gift-giving must be one of our oldest rituals. I’ll bet cave dwellers already indulged in it, making a present of pretty pebbles or seashells.

Dear Editor, Re: “Racist flyers condemned,” News, Dec. 16. It is great that different organizations have initiatives that address racism. If a similar initiative could be run in school, it would provide a lasting impact to the society.

Dear Santa, How do you go on your sleigh with so many presents? Love, Rex Dear Santa, I love you! You are the BEST! Where do you get the gifts? Why do you always wear red? How do you go down the chimney? Can you give me a blue LEGO Train please? Love

Dear Editor, Re: “Stink is breaking my stride,” Voices, Dec. 16. I’m not impressed with the comments by Evan Dunfee, race-walker turned amateur toxicologist, who spent weeks training in Shanghai and Beijing.

Dear Editor, Re: “Welcome to ‘Stinkmond,’” Front feature, Dec. 16. I would like to extend my thanks to the Richmond News and reporter Graeme Wood for their assistance in bringing the matter of the stench in Richmond front and centre.