Unfair forum question

Claude Bergman Penticton Dear Editor: I attended the forum for the school trustees. While I understand that the hard questions must be asked, I believe that the question must at least be relevant and not over-reaching.

James Palanio was asked if his support of early French Immersion was self-serving as a realtor. This clouded an issue and undermined the wholly legitimate support of an important program. Early French Immersion would benefit families in our community. Yes, it might even potentially draw more families to our town, but to suggest there is some hidden realty-based motive is beyond weak.

Perhaps more pointed questions pertaining to how this program benefits students may have been more productive to the discussion rather than blatantly be directed towards possible personal gain.

Perhaps instead of merely looking at the candidate’s profession and asking a question out of a poorly-conceived stereotype, some proper research should have been done on the subject or better yet ask the candidates why it’s important without any insinuations attached.

I suggest the reporter speak with an early French Immersion student at age 15 versus a late French Immersion student at the same age, (noting their vastly superior fluency and dialect) and get to understand the long-term educational and career advantages it provides. Understand the demand, the potential impact and yes, the potential obstacles or repercussions to provide a proper picture to educate the voters on the issue.

It is also important to note that any candidate whether for mayor, council, or trustee may benefit from bringing families into our community. Candidates at any level who want to make Penticton more vibrant to attract families could benefit on a personal level.

A teacher now has better job security and more opportunity for advancement as there are more students in our district, a restaurant or brew pub now has more patrons, and construction companies can build more homes. If you want to dig deep enough and stretch things in this way every candidate’s sincerity could be questioned. Pointed questions based on a candidate’s track record are more than appropriate. Attempts at baiting based solely on assumptions do not serve the election process.

At the end of the day Palanio is running because he cares about the students, his neighbours, his family, and this community. His platform is based on this. Why he would be treated any differently than any of the other candidate in this way is biased and unprofessional. I encourage you to take the time to get to know the