Mailbag – Summer 2023

POWERFUL AND HARD-HITTING

First off, let me say how much I enjoyed your magazine, having picked up my first copy in Port Perry last week. Re: The Girl Next Door, thank you for tackling a heartbreaking and challenging story. Although I was aware of most of what was shared, I found your piece to be powerful and hard-hitting. It has hovered at the back of my mind since I read it. As your last sentence says, it could be happening in the car next to you. More attention should be paid to the individuals who purchase the services offered by these human traffickers.

Who are these men? It is mind blowing to think how any person could callously harm a child or young person in such a way. Yet obviously, it is happening routinely or the market would not exist. The first concern must be for the victims. But what about the buyers? I am wondering if a blatant campaign outing those buying the services could deter at least some potential offenders. Popular media has normalized purchasing sex, and the people providing the service are often depicted as in control and able to handle it. We know this is not the case. Any and all ways to disrupt the market for these services can only benefit the victims.

Kids in school now learn so much about human sexuality; should it not be part of the education system to teach the harm to all involved in purchased sex? Perhaps it is being addressed more than I know. I hope so.

Thanks again for a terrific magazine!
Lyndell Oldfield, via email

ALLAN BENDER

Well done on the story on Allan Bender from Blinc Studios. What a talent and what a treasure to have this artist in our town.
Murray Greene, Belleville

A FUTURE WITH FORESTS

Such an important topic you covered in Ensuring a Future with Forests (Spring 2023). There were a number of points stated in this editorial that should resonate with everyone, notably the importance of not messing with Mother Nature! I also appreciated the support from Forests Ontario and Maple Leaves Forever.
Keith Ferguson, via email

CYCLING CLUBS

So great to see the cycling feature in your Spring issue. I have been an avid cyclist, on and off, for many years and I appreciate being in the know of any new routes to try or clubs to join. Well done Laura!
Susan White, via email