To the Editor:
As a long-term resident of West Creston, I am pleased that certified fire protection for my community is now one step closer as a result of the recent petition process. Yes, I am willing to pay for reduced risk. My lower insurance rates will be an added bonus. Loss by fire is devastating, and family members and friends who have witnessed the results of it, either in Barriere or West Kelowna and the Blue Mountains of Sydney would not wish it upon me or my neighbours. Increased fire protection in a forested hillside community that can be subject to dry summer conditions is simply common sense, they argue.
However, recent misleading and inflammatory letters to the editor were cause for concern. Both Frank Belavy and Vladimir Certik opted for emotional personal attacks over logic in their separate efforts to express displeasure with the result of a democratic process. I worry that some ill-informed readers may be misled by their negative metaphors, allusions (such as “knives sticking out of innocent backs”) or big words. I worry that others may see sensational insults as acceptable press.
In particular, one reference by Mr. Certik demands a response. “Fake firefighters”, his glib title, I presume, for our West Creston volunteers, seems an unwarranted and mean attack. These well-meaning men and women sought to prevent loss in our area. They generously gave of their time to explore fire protection options, access funding, locate and expand equipment, complete training courses and improve callout communication. They started from scratch when they saw a safety gap in our community and worked hard. They attended 33 local fires, including one only 100 metres from my own property. I thank them all.
So yes, opinions will differ and not all members of a community will be happy with the results of a petition or referendum. Yes, Canadian society allows for freedom of expression and a community newspaper should reflect varied views. But unnecessary name-calling and misleading attacks are unacceptable. Logic and reason should prevail. Insults should have no place in healthy community debate.
Margaret Miller
West Creston