This copy is for your personal non-commercial use only. To order presentation-ready copies of Toronto Star content for distribution to colleagues, clients or customers, or inquire about permissions/licensing, please go to: www.TorontoStarReprints.com

No condo for cathedral site

Regarding “The death of abandoned cemeteries in downtown Hamilton” (June 16): It is important to note that several years ago, a decision was made not to proceed with a proposed condominium development on the Cathedral Place property. The cathedral congregation and diocese continue to explore possibilities to sustain and enhance the vital ministry that happens at Cathedral Place, for the benefit of the wider community we are called to serve.

As you know, we have known each other before you even thought about getting into politics and have worked on campaigns near and dear to our hearts.

I know you haven’t made up your mind about running for mayor of Hamilton. Two terms as the official opposition is nothing to be ashamed of and although the party goal was to grab the brass ring, we all know that you were faced with a number of obstacles such as; media bias, social media lies, circulating false information, polling numbers and voter apathy just to mention a few. Andrea, you care about people in the community and you care about our city. You are a dedicated, hard working woman and will never give an inch in fighting for our city. When you make up your mind, nothing can stop you. Honesty is at the centre of your decision-making process. You have a long history of fighting for the people of Hamilton.

If you do not throw your hat in the ring, you will be kicking yourself for the rest of your life. Andrea, the people of Hamilton need you.

Regarding “Finding the real roots of mass killing evil” (June 13): The author once again blames educators and schools. Indeed, kindness, empathy and connectivity are a focus in our school systems, and without them a classroom would not function as positive learning environment.

Nothing would be accomplished, and it is also intrinsic and learned by example. Comparing teaching empathy to times tables and ABCs does not make any sense, and the author would observe these values taught throughout a school day by spending time in an elementary or secondary classroom.

It is also the responsibility of parents and family to instil kindness, empathy and connectivity from infancy through adulthood. It is a continuum.

Praise for the Rainbow Prom

Regarding “A welcoming safe space” (June 16): I was pleased to see a photo of two-spirit and LGBTQ students celebrating Pride Month at the HWDSB’s Rainbow Prom.

As the teacher-adviser for the positive space group at a large high school in Hamilton, I often hear stories of struggles with mental health and marginalization, both of which have been exacerbated by the pandemic particularly among this group. As a result, the high percentage of students currently experiencing trauma has been increasing at an alarming rate.

After more than two years of isolation, the opportunity to socialize is long overdue. It is only through events such as the Rainbow Prom that two-spirit and LGBTQ youth can finally feel free to be themselves in a safe and inclusive environment.

Does my vote not count?

Most days since the provincial election, The Spec opinion pages have been inundated with accounts of voter apathy. So many gripes about their vote not counting. Seems to be the case of their preferred party’s candidate being perceived as having no chance of being elected. I did vote as I do at every opportunity to exercise that privilege. Does this mean my vote didn’t count because I reside in a NDP stronghold riding?

I am not sure how other people feel, but the renovations at Gage Park are a major disappointment in my estimation. I like to walk at the park with my dog. Having recently returned from Florida, I took her for a walk recently and was disgusted. Esthetically, it has gone from a beautiful natural place to an eyesore. With the paved paths it is no longer safe to walk there. Twice on one walk recently we had bicyclists whipping past us, nearly run us over. The park was much better before the renovations. What a waste of $1.55 million.

Regarding “How misreading the polls sank the NDP”: I must respectfully disagree with the writer. I think what really sunk the NDP — and the Liberals, too, for that matter — was that they were unable to craft a message capable of convincing even 11 per cent of Ontario’s voters that it would be worth the trouble of casting a ballot for them. Maybe they’ll figure it out in four more years.

Copyright owned or licensed by Toronto Star Newspapers Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or distribution of this content is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Toronto Star Newspapers Limited and/or its licensors. To order copies of Toronto Star articles, please go to: www.TorontoStarReprints.com