LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Let’s see the exact costs for MLAs

Re: Alberta Party demands audit after Fildebrandt double claims for meals, Aug. 15 Derek Fildebrandt states that the controversy surrounding his expense claims regarding meals is due to “administrative errors.” That could be the case. Mistakes do happen and the amount of money involved is small.

But, what about the expense claim Fildebrandt makes for his apartment rental in Edmonton? Anyone making a Google search of rental units in downtown Edmonton will quickly discover that nearly $2,000 per month for a studio apartment — especially one that has been described by one of Fildebrandt’s Airbnb customers as “basic” — is an excessive amount of rent.

If Fildebrandt is claiming the maximum accommodation benefit of $23,160 per year, but is actually paying far less, will he explain this away as being another administrative error?

All MLAs should be required to provide proof of their exact accommodation costs. I’m somewhat surprised that Fildebrandt, who casts himself as a fiscal hawk, didn’t raise this issue himself. James Race, Edmonton

Theatre genius gets his due credit

I am glad to see Louis B. Hobson gave Keith Johnstone his due credit for creating theatre sports.

I remember meeting Keith when I was a senior at the University of Calgary’s drama department and how, over a game of chess, he expounded on turning improvisational games into a sporting event. That was in 1973. I even had the opportunity of performing in perhaps Calgary’s first improv troupe based on his games — the Pomperdale Players.

Keith deserves hearty congratulations for successfully executing his vision that has not only entertained many people but has also launched many careers! Lynn Ivall, Calgary

Don’t ignore poor sportsmanship

This past weekend, Alberta soccer provincials were held in Lethbridge. I was a spectator watching my son in the under 12 boys division. During a stoppage in play in our game, I turned to watch the gold medal game behind me.

I was standing six feet from the back of the Calgary players’ bench watching their game when the Calgary coach approached the bench and said, “You guys have the number of their player from that last play. When you get in ... cheap-shot him.”

I instantly voiced my disgust for what I just witnessed and was told to mind my own business and stay out of it as it wasn’t the game I was there to watch. These were under-12 players he was directing to commit unsportsmanlike conduct.

Shame on all parents and others that turn a blind eye to this conduct. Fabian Gayle, Medicine Hat

Championships prove successful

Congratulations to Doug Kyle, president of Calgary 55+, and his exceptional co-ordinators/volunteers who, on short notice due to extenuating circumstances, successfully hosted the Provincial Championships in Calgary, Aug. 10-12.

The championships attracted more than 1,100 participants from across Alberta who took part in a variety of activities, such as bowling, swimming, tennis, track and field, cycling, golf, horseshoes, hockey, etc.

The purpose of the championships is to have seniors come together in the spirit of friendly competition and camaraderie while demonstrating the importance of mental and physical health.

Well done! Dee-Ann Clark, Calgary

City should create public art centre

Re: Art policy tweak should satisfy all, Aug. 15 I have a suggestion on the use of public funds for public art: create an art centre that is more accessible to more Calgarians. A centre where elements of our diversity and history, incorporated in a variety of art forms, could truly represent and enrich our city.

Importantly, such a centre could increase its availability by reducing entrance fees. Perhaps a portion of the money slated for public art could be applied to the reduction of these fees.

The centre should be located where public transportation is conveniently accessible (e.g. the old Planetarium). This would truly make this “public art’’ for a greater number of people. Ginette Szekrenyes, Calgary