Re: Susan Whitney’s letter published in the July 16 issue of The NEWS (‘A rocky ransom’).
Susan, I hate to burst your bubble, but Qualicum Beach is not the quiet, conservative town you think it is and as you read on you will realize your problem is not unique.
I am a long-time resident of Qualicum and over the years have observed many changes, some good, some not so good. I have found that most residents here are quiet, considerate and thoughtful, but not all.
Some, live by what I refer to as the “entitlement” philosophy. Their mantra is: “I can do whatever I want, whenever I want because I know so-called ‘important’ people and I have lots of money, therefore rules just don’t apply to me.”
My reply: big deal, who cares? You can still treat people with respect.
Don’t get me wrong, the majority of homeowners on our street are lovely people and my husband and I feel privileged to live next to them. However, some are rude, inconsiderate and, it is obvious, were never taught any manners growing up.
These residents don’t think twice about parking in front of other peoples’ houses. They have an endless supply of all types of vehicles and always use our boulevard as a parking lot. They do have their own boulevard but why mess it up when you can mess up someone else’s, right?
The one time we did ask the resident to move his truck he exploded in a barrage of expletives (he delights in using one particular four-letter word), and simply ignored the request anyway.
But perhaps I’m being too harsh. It is possible he just overspent the budget on his grossly-oversized house and has to take in boarders to help pay the mortgage. Why else would a two-person household own five large vehicles?
My main concern now (as we’ve accepted the fact we live next to a used car lot) is that if an ambulance, fire truck or any emergency vehicle had to drive in our area it would be, for the most part, quite difficult.
A few of our neighbours have serious medical issues and they would be the ones who would pay the price.
Well Susan, I hope my situation makes you feel better. Be the “eternal optimist” and keep thinking someone will “ask before you park and never lift a person’s rocks.” My suggestion though is keep an eye on your flower pots.
Sylvia Stallybrass
Qualicum Beach