Following are emailed reader responses to stories or letters to the editor for the second week of October 2024. They have been edited slightly for readability. 

Got something you want to add? Send an email to editor Marshall Jones at mjones@infonews.ca.

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Hamer-Jackson kicked out of Kamloops mayor's office at city hall

I wish that this city council could see themselves as the majority of the Kamloops citizens see them, being immature, snivelling snowflakes. Their bad behaviour started election night and has been non-stop since. We are tired of it. We elected a leader and would like him to have a chance to lead without the constant game playing. He may not be a smooth talker but he will get things done, in an above board way, with taxpayers knowledge and I would venture to say that the drug, homeless and crime scenario that has dragged this city down to the lowest level it could possibly be, would soon take on a new look and it certainly would not be acceptance and enabling the problems to continue. You have all just about a year to play your games with not much to show other than the city taxes going up, so I would like you all to give our mayor at least three to four months, without the constant backstabbing innuendos. If this is allowed, you, Mr. Mayor, be prepared to pull up your socks, best foot forward and show them how it is done and do not forget to say pretty please, just so everyone gets a warm fuzzy feeling.  — Sharon Rickson, via iNFOnews.ca

Please be careful how you write about our Mayor in Kamloops, Reid Hamer-Jackson. You article today was borderline expressing a mood of bullying. You are looked to be a news source, not an opinion poll. If it is your opinion, stand up and be counted. We want the news and statistics. When are you going to research the complaints about the Mayor being abrupt or demanding of city employee complaints. What did he do or say specifically that created an issue. As a news source, you talk around it, but never any details or specifics. I call bullshit. By not digging out the details, you are supporting Kamloops Council and city employees as bullies. — David Monsees, via email

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'I lost $50K': An Okanagan summer without Airbnb

As a tourist, maybe concentrate on the homeless, the thefts, people staring and bothering at out door cafes. People begging on every corner, the out and blatant use of drugs. Why would I come here? — Marilyn Leszczynski, via iNFOnews.ca

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Pit bulls in Kamloops pet mauling tested positive for meth, cocaine, city says

The owners need to be charged. — Bonnie Derry, via iNFOnews.ca

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What Kamloops, Okanagan public can expect when saving overdose victims

Glad to hear there are people who would take that action. Although I see it when we are out and about, I would not stop to check on someone who I think is passed out on drugs. — iceblueaccent, via X.com

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Kamloops businesses frustrated with RCMP and bylaw officers

This is beyond shocking. We are going to lose all our local business owners. This isn't sustainable. — M1315094M, via X.com

I've saved the document to read again. I would like to see the comment sorted into 'like' responses. It was difficult reading the same comments by different people. I do not blame the police. I blame the courts and lack of accountability. Being an addict is not an excuse. — iceblueaccent, via X.com

The fourth reason we moved. — Kevin Brett, via X.com

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RCMP cleared in 2022 Kamloops deadly shooting after violent abduction

Sad situation for his ex and children, but I am grateful we no longer have to worry about this man bringing violence to his family or elsewhere in our communities. — iceblueaccent, via X.com

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Mob mentality at work in teen swarming attack: Prof

I was the victim of violence, started by two classmates. It ended with a bully threatening me and shoving me against a wall in front of many witnesses, enough to have stopped the guy who attacked. They watched or stayed out of the way. Years later, I was attacked by a criminal and only a colleague in a car, interrupting the attack, saved me from possible death. The police aren't even worth mentioning when they aren't upholding racism and colonialism in every city of this country.  — Patrick Longworth, via email

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Kamloops mayor 'lied' about legal fees, says former lawyer

He thinks suing someone is hitting the jackpot. It’s a game to him. Way to stay classy, RHJ. — val22886980, via X.com

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Kamloops mayor missed more closed meetings than rest of council combined

Great article. His lack of character is once again amplified. But hey, at least he shared his thoughts on how to be a good reporter. —val22886980, via X.com

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iN RESPONSE to newsletter editorial Monday, Oct. 7

Today's elections seem to me are like time machines. Jump in a  Conservative designed machine and you're heading back to the past, jump in a more liberal time machine and you're heading to the future. Neither machine works very well but those are your choices. — Ron Wat, via email 

I was disappointed that Peter Milobar chose to hang with John Rustad, thereby declaring himself against the COVID 19 vaccine and boosters, a non-environmentalist, bring back plastic straws and bags, supporter of private auto insurance. Belair Direct dropped it from their platform, couldn’t compete. Alberta’s All State Insurance is just about on par with ICBC, removal of SOGI from schools thereby accepting the former discrimination, his rejecting climate change, introduce private medical thereby contravening the Canada Health Act and they have nothing exceptional in Indigenous relations albeit The Moose Hide Campaign withdrew their approval of Rustad from wearing their pin saying, “It is our position that you are not upholding these standards.” I had hoped Peter would have joined the scores of other BC United candidates and run as an independent. — Jon McCormick, via email 

My parents were staunch Liberals, until Trudeau the elder. They were never onboard for anything CCF (Co-operative Commonwealth Federation) did, but thought health care was the Christian way of it. I am Conservative for Federal elections. I will hold my nose and vote NDP. Rustad’s main fault is extreme racism, and he’s a bully.  He was an antivaxer and is very likely an accomplice in the deaths of many. — Janice Crape, via email 

As voters, we deserve representatives who not only understand our community’s needs but also demonstrate a genuine commitment to serving all constituents. Our representative in Victoria should be someone who understands the value of every voice, who listens and leads with empathy, and who is prepared to represent the varied perspectives in our city.

I strongly believe that Loyal Wooldridge is that candidate, and he will represent all of Kelowna and help move our city forward and be an effective representative in Victoria for our community. He has shown respect and concern for all of Kelowna’s residents. He pays attention to all the varied problems we are facing as a fast growing city from our housing crisis to our unhoused population, from our farming community to our small business owners. He has been actively engaged in the community, and has shown a willingness and eagerness to meet people and talk about their concerns. He is respectful, knowledgeable and willing to gather information to further understand our issues. We know that from his work as a Kelowna City councillor over the past several years and saw his actions during the McDougall Creek fire of 2023. When compared with the other candidates vying for the new seat in Kelowna Centre, he is far and away the best person to be in Victoria to stand for Kelowna.

We do not need someone there who displays troubling behaviour, has made derogatory remarks, has shown a dismissive attitude towards certain community groups and demonstrated a profound disconnect from our diverse population. We need a stand up, person of character and commitment and Loyal Wooldridge has shown again and again that he is that person. — Beverley Kalmakoff, via email

First, thank you for your unbiased reporting, we need a lot more of that. But to the question of not knowing who or what your local candidate stands for is priority one for me. I’m a free thinking voter and if I don’t know what you stand for then I will not even consider you on voting day. If you hide from scrutiny then that speaks volumes of who you are. So if you want the job then show up for interviews. — Anthony Plourde, via email

Economy is the number one issue, without economic growth we would not have the resources to help in all the other needed areas. — Ken and Lynn Ganden, via email

BC Conservatives to bring back common sense. — Sherin Gauvin, via email

Hey, I don't normally respond to your questions, but I have to say that I'm sick and tired of street crime and drugs. There are so many issues out there but this one is driving me crazy because I think it can be dealt with differently than how the NDP has been handling it which is clearly not working. On the other hand some of the Conservative candidates are a bit nutso and I'm also concerned about cuts they may make. But hey, it might be time to try something different. I guess it's decision time soon. Time to start praying for wisdom. — Kathy Russell, via email

My most important issues are climate change, fix logging practices and the environment. We don't have any time left for climate deniers or money hungry politicians. — Debbie Oakland, via email

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Last two suspects in violent swarming attack arrested: Kelowna RCMP

Editor:

According to the Kelowna RCMP, a total of five youths, all under the age of 18, have been arrested in connection with the swarming and beating of a 13-year-old Kelowna girl at Gyro Beach on Friday, Sep 27/24. All five were then released on strict conditions.

Barbara Coloroso is a bestselling author and an internationally recognized speaker and consultant on parenting, teaching, school discipline, positive school climate, bullying, grieving, nonviolent conflict resolution and restorative justice. She spoke to Kelowna teachers and parents soon after her 2003 bestseller was published: "The Bully, the Bullied and the Bystander" (Collins). The book was updated and expanded in 2016 with the title: "The Bully, the Bullied, and the Not-So-Innocent Bystander" (William Morrow Paperbacks). Coloroso addresses the idea that there are no innocent bystanders: "What were you doing there in the first place?" Her main message: We all have to care deeply, and teach our kids to do the same.

A number of her talks and interviews are found on YouTube, including "Barbara Coloroso: The Role of the Bystander - ERASE Bullying Summit" and from her 2015 Nanaimo interview "Barbara Coloroso: The Bully, the Bullied, and the Not-So-Innocent Bystander". "And my goal in my work is to demonstrate how we can help raise a fourth character, that "witness, resister and defender" -- the kid willing to stand up and speak out and step in." Barbara Coloroso's website is www.kidsareworthit.com.

David Buckna - Kelowna, via email

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iN RESPONSE to newsletter editorial, Wednesday, Oct. 9

It matters to me that we learn who these so called candidates are but as far as I am concerned, I view the parties with as much disdain as I would the German Nazi party because of their track records to date. The only close to clean slate is held by-the Greens. — Patrick Longworth, via email

I am voting BC Conservative, for the party, leader and candidate. — Sherin Gauvin, via email

I watched and enjoyed the usual promises from all three party leaders. I already voted for Aman Singh NDP Richmond Queensborough. I’m 76 and born in Victoria. My personal experiences makes me dislike the Conservatives both provincially and federally. I did vote for John Yap’s Liberal Party because I knew him from Gilmore Park United Church. I also dislike Donald Trump and the Republican Party. — Richard Quan, via email

You are spot in your statement voters vote for the party not the leader, unless the leader is condescending to the citizens such as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. I am more interested in the parties' past records and policies when deciding to cast my vote. In the recent leaders debate my hats off to BC Conservative leader John Rustad who was the most positive and gave a vision for voters especially young people. — Lee Fennell, via email

I vote for the person and not the party. I wish I could get to all candidate meetings and ask questions. Like, when a person is found to have committed suicide, why doesn't the government have someone to help with the the needs of those left behind? I asked our MP and MLA for help for a family and was told, they have to come to us for help. Of course, this is a hard thing to do, and I believe it should be looked at by qualified people. Leaving it to a friend of the family can cause financial hardship on those who come to their aid. — Robert Richards, via email

I vote for my local candidate. Especially if they're not a lawyer! — Diane McGaw, via email

I vote for the party and the principles they stand for. However, in this case I'm happy to say the leader of the party I will vote for holds the same views as I. We need to save BC from David Eby and his NDP Party politics which have decimated our cost of living, our criminal "swinging door” policies, and the outrageous ICBC. Go Conservatives! — Rob Dwyer, via email

With all the rhetoric and combative talk that is going on in the press today between the leading parties I believe for the government to provide a balanced view it is very important to elect as many independents as we can. The independents will look after the interests of the majority. Once elected these independents will be the stabilizing voice in what could be a very polarized minority government and maybe even hold the balance of power much like a few Greens have done in the past. This is a unique time in B.C. politics when a group of very respected and popular candidates are running as independents, some with years of experience in politics, proven support and proven track records, so highly likely to get elected.Their views represent the majority of what people want to see which is more centralist in nature. Not the polar comments and policies that are being put forward in the press, not the rampant spending that is being suggested but viewpoints that will see  the interests of the majority respected and followed. Please vote! Not voting is casting a vote against what you believe in. And your vote for an independent in the Okanagan where they stand a great chance of getting elected, is not wasted as some say. In my riding of Kelowna Mission that is Ashley Ramsay. She has strong support and will likely be elected in my riding in the upcoming election. I urge you to speak to the independent in your area. — Myles Bruckal, via iNFOnews.ca

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Veteran Summerland RBC manager jailed for swiping $850K from seniors

Only three years for almost a million stolen dollars? No doubt she says, "I'll take that, I deserve it." She deserves a lot more than what she got. — Matthew Olsen, via iNFOnews.ca

She should spend five-plus years in jail. She destroyed the trust of every client and the bank itself. How can you get that trust back after a long term employee ruined it? — Jeff Crompton, via iNFOnews.ca

She should get more than three years in prison in my opinion. — Don Frank, via iNFOnews.ca

Kamloops mayor missed more closed meetings than rest of council combined

Give it a rest already. You bitch about Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson being at meetings and you bitch about him not being at them. It's time for a corporate shuffle, enough is enough. The city councillors should be ashamed of themselves. — Chris Webster, via iNFOnews.ca

I better run for mayor next time. I love getting paid for being a useless slug. — Richard Elmer, via iNFOnews.ca

Why are people making excuses for this guy? — Adam Gallant, via iNFOnews.ca

When I view reader comments insisting the council is responsible for the Kamloops Mayor's negligence, I'm amazed. It is ultimately Reid Hamer-Jackson who put himself in his current position, which has affected not only his fellow council members but also a plethora of individual city staff members, news reporters, various organizations and citizens themselves. I see the following as only a few of the reasons Hamer-Jackson is not suitable for a position which Kamloops citizens continue to pay him so highly:

• He's rude to reporters who don't "side with him" or ask questions he doesn't want to disclose.
• He can't play fair. He has no sense of responsibility to his constituents and has been known to bully those who press him for answers or get in the way of his personal agenda.
• He's not able to speak professionally or knowledgeably, which reflects on the entire city.
• He's been accused of sexual harassment.
• He's been accused of fraud and is being sued for not paying legal fees
• He's done nothing of value for the city that I'm aware of, and is not able to collaborate with the rest of the team who showed up to get the job done.
• He is unaccountable and refuses to apologize for his wrongdoings.
• He will not admit he's incapable of getting along with the majority of those he's been tasked to work with and refuses to step down, clearly knowing he's a hindrance to the effective management of the city.

Now, we've been informed of his extremely poor and unaccounted-for attendance at both open and closed council meetings. I can only wonder what will come next in his ongoing record of dereliction of duty. In my view, Hamer-Jackson has no qualifications to be the leader of a group hired to work professionally, cohesively and effectively for the citizens of Kamloops. The fact he's been documented as continually harassing city staff and has been physically separated from them as a "safety precaution", tells us everything we need to know. — Karen Klein, via email

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Homeless people in Kamloops without shelter, basic resources fearful as winter approaches

Stop giving people welfare. That money should go towards opening a complete rehab/detox facility outside of Kamloops perhaps at Tranquille City past the airport. A secluded semi self-sufficient location for the needs of everyone struggling with addiction or mental disorders. It's either you stay there until you can be a productive member of society or you're in jail. End all the free handouts unless you're willing to be a productive member of society. — Justin Schweitzer, via iNFOnews.ca

Poilievre barred from speaking in House for not withdrawing remark about Joly

I think it's absolutely pathetic that we have someone running to lead the country who seems to think it will help his cause if he emulates the US ex president. — Bonnie Derry, via iNFOnews.ca

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iN RESPONSE to newsletter editorial, Friday, Oct. 11

The NDP and Conservative leaders in B.C. are not fit to govern so vote for the BC Greens and keep some form of normalcy in the legislature no matter who gets in. — Ted Guthrie

Just a comment, but there probably isn't a person out there that hasn't said something they shouldn't have about a person, a group or a culture. Look in the mirror and ask yourself if you are perfect in everything you say and do. Now with social media, its recorded forever. — Mitch Tabar

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Hi Marshall,

So the wisdom that Kathy is looking for is a fairly simple answer, if you are not happy with the BC NDP and you are having second thoughts about John Rustad and his unbalanced, unvetted, run from public forums, candidates then your best bet is to vote Independent. Depending on where Kathy lives she has the ability to choose from some great Independent candidates: Ashley Ramsay in Kelowna-Mission, Stephen Johnston West Kelowna, etc.

From my prospective we can not take a chance and turn our government over to Rustad, especially after watching the debate where he pulled a Trump and trumped up a story about an overdose death that actually didn’t happen, his weak walk back when he was caught was pathetic.

Independents have a good chance of holding the balance of power and we might all benefit from having a few adults in the room as opposed to this left right march we have been doing for decades.

Take a chance it can’t get worse and may get a whole lot better.

Cheers, Wayne Pierce

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For the leader of a party to make up a story about an overdose death on his way to the debate is proof that this guy is not being honest. According to The Tyee our economy is not as bad as BC Conservative leader John Rustad would have us believe either. They have not produced their costing of their promises either, that’s a big why not when the other two have.

This "sky is falling" type of politics really needs to be fact checked far more than it is now. We have these fly by night bloggers that seem to be mostly right leaning. Who’s financing that?

I’m non-partisan and I'm hoping for and voting for a minority government with a lot of independents that don’t carry fringe ideology. Hopefully those that get elected are honest and can admit when they are wrong and alter course if need be. People are better served when there’s a real democracy in government as opposed to one party rule.

Anthony Plourde

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Right now I have a mail-in vote on my desk and I am voting for the Green Party.

I have supported the NDP in the past, but their track record is poor. Housing and healthcare are important to me personally as a 78-year-old senior on my own.

But this week I witnessed Mr. Rustad talk on the leaders debate about witnessing someone dying on a street corner which didn’t happen. Personally I don’t want him to be the Premier of the province where I live. For me, it’s that simple.

If I had a job in the timber industry I’d likely be angry, because unless I was hauling burnt logs to our pulp mill, likely I’d be unemployed now. My view is that the NDP have continued to allow clear cuts, in spite of evidence that this is bad practice. Forest fires have decimated thousands of hectares of our forest, so what’s even left to ‘harvest’? Our mills are shutting and moving south where trees grow much faster. I suspect all that’s left is prime growth. Areas which have not been logged. I have to stand up and say “No”. No more.

I agree that maybe, the Green Party’s chances are not great, but I will vote for them. It has to start somewhere.

Robin Dunn

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