I’m going to keep this opinion piece short and sweet this week.
I’m sure my article on the pickleball players and the Lions Club is going to cause me many a headache to come, but issues like this happening in my hometown are something I have to deal with, especially when I’m in a position that I can actively do something about it.
As a journalist, it’s my job to report the facts at hand so everyone who reads the paper (in print and online at northislandgazette.com) can come to their own conclusion about issues going on in the local communities.
With that kind of power comes great responsibility, meaning it’s my job to speak up and try to create discussion regarding sensitive issues and show both sides of the story.
With that out of the way, I want to state right now for the record I have nothing against John Tidbury or the Lions Club, I’ve known John since I was a little kid and he’s never been anything but friendly to me, and the Lions do great work for the community.
That said, I also care a lot about recreation in this town, and for the life of me I just can’t wrap my head around why this issue with the pickleballers using the Civic Centre hasn’t been resolved yet.
What is causing the animosity between these two groups? Instead of fighting they should be working together for the greater good of the community. I understand the pickleball players damaged some equipment and created a safety issue by barricading emergency exits, but come on, both groups need to stop fighting with each other, apologize, and make amends. If that doesn’t work, then the pickleballers need to just go and find another place to play.
Also, council, please stop sending the pickleball group back and forth between the Parks and Rec committee and council meetings. Put your collective heads together and solve the issue with a show of hands before it spirals even more out of control.
I understand the Lions manage the Civic Centre for you, but you actually own the building and you need to deal with this.
Tyson Whitney is an award-winning journalist who was born and raised in Port Hardy. His family has lived in Port Hardy for more than 40 years. He graduated with a degree in writing from Vancouver Island University in 2008. Email: editor@northislandgazette.com
@NIGazette
editor@northislandgazette.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter