Higher-earning families part of St. Albert's appeal

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Message ID: 329193
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Gloria B
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Poor Mr. & Mrs. Perry. They read all the stuff about St. Albert being an affluent community and thought it meant only the affluent live here. Does he think all the people who work in the stores, restaurants, janitorial services (hint), all magically evaporate after they have served him? I've lived here more years than Mr. Perry has had birthdays, and can tell him he's in for a shock if he thinks its only the lower income teens that do drugs or commit crimes. Your wealth will not immunize your children from the drug dealers who view St. Albert as a prime selling ground because the kids here can afford what the low income kids in Edmonton's inner city can't. Good luck sir, you're going to need it.

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Message ID: 329192
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Paul O'Neil
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My daughter was born there, her mom grew up there, and her family still lives there. St. Albert always had the reputation of being a snotty town, and this letter does not help the image. I thought for moment that this was written in the 1960's, from a white family in Birmingham - the rhetoric used is sick - and archaic.

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Message ID: 329191
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Irma Peltier
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April 2, 2010

When I first started reading the vitriolic letter “Higher-earning families part of St. Albert’s appeal,” (April 2, 2010) I expected to discover a satire, like Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal” and that, at some point in the diatribe, the writers would reveal that the article was “tongue-in-cheek.” To my disgust, I realized the letter was a true reflection of the mindset of some of St. Albert’s citizens. Its scurrilous use of the phrase “low-income households” denoting criminality, drug use, and other unsavory activities is offensive in the extreme. If the writers had substituted “black” or “Jewish” or “native” for “low-income,” this letter would be considered a hate crime.

I understand the concerns raised by residents of Akinsdale over the high-density housing planned for their community. But the intent of the aforementioned letter has gone beyond the valid worries about green space, parking, overcrowding and property values.

Do these writers live in a vacuum? St. Albert is already home to a wide range of income-earners, including upper, middle and lower classes. To imply that the city is an elite clique of only the wealthy is absurd. The writers claim they don’t want to worry about drugs, gang fights, speeders, or the unruly families that will supposedly infiltrate our community with the proposed development in Akinsdale. All of these behaviours are already quite evident in St. Albert, just as they are in every city. This city is not an island of upper-class morality. Immoral behaviour is evident in all stratas of society, not just the poor.

The writers imply that the intrinsic value of a human being is measured by his paycheque, and that friendships among children and teenagers are based on one’s “house and other possessions.” (Perhaps that says a lot about the character of the so-called “friends.”) It’s certainly an eye-opener to see the writers’ low opinion of the people who serve their coffee, work in their stores, clean their houses, guard their country, and babysit their children. To denigrate an entire class of low-income people as “undesirables” is snobbish arrogance.

My husband and I, both retired high school teachers (who incidentally were raised in low-income families) moved to St. Albert several years ago to enjoy the wonderful amenities this small city enjoys. We have praised the services, inhabitants and atmosphere of this community to our friends who live elsewhere. This letter, however, made me ashamed to be a citizen here, ashamed that readers from outside our community would believe that such sentiments reflect the beliefs of St. Albertans.

John & Irma Peltier
St. Albert

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Message ID: 329186
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Brianne Warren
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Hmmmm...ok, 'nuf said...now that you have had your 2 minutes of shame over this issue, ponder this thought, I live in Spruce Grove which is mostly middle class, and a lot of people who live here don't even know that there are low-income rentals in this fine city as well, just because you are low income does not mean you are a drug addict or a thug. I am happy that you paid way too much money for your over priced house, and that your income means that your children can become crack heads instead of dope feinds. There are drugs and criminals EVERYWHERE, St. Albert is not exempt, nor is the city that I live in. I for one will chose to raise my children myself instead of allowing their invironment shape who they are. Thanks for all of your infanite wisdom. Maybe we should just toss all of the needy into one big camp on the outskirts of the rest of civilization just to keep all of the snobs happy. From one middle class mother who's boys would be the first to hold the door open, even for a snob whom does not deserve it.

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Message ID: 329185
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: ToniS
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This letter is not about Habitat for Humanity. It's about the potential for large low-income housing projects being built everywhere without following the zoning bylaws.

The proposal for Akinsdale was for 58 row housing units of which only 15 were for Habitat for Humanity families. The remaining 43 were going to be built and sold by Apollo Developments, which is owned by the former Board Chair of Habitat for Humanity, and sold on the open market for far too much money. They could get away with this because Habitat was going to cover a 20% second mortgage so qualifying would be easier. You could call it taking advantage of the naive and desperate.

Since Habitat for Humanity has such a good name, Apollo was hiding under their banner to get access to the land that was going to be paid for with tax dollars. They wanted to cram more units than was reasonably possible on the site to maximize their unit sales.

They were going to build small units with no basements and only small sheds attached for storage. Apollo Developments was going to sub the home building to Apollo Homes and the piling system supports to Apollo Piling Systems. Who do you think was going to benefit the most from this? Do you really believe it would have been someone buying an 864 sq ft two bedroom unit for $200K-$250K?

There was going to be a shortage of parking stalls because there were too many units on the land. The tall two storey structures were going to be too close to existing residents' yards because those yards were ten feet shorter than normal because they "backed onto a park".

Fortunately, City Council listened to the citizens and is giving them some input into what will be built there. Since they invested their lives in the neighbourhood, that's the least they deserve. If 43 more units would have been built than would fit on the land, it would have created a rental slum within a year. That would not benefit anyone - not the surrounding residents and not the hopeful homebuyers that would have found they were stuck in a deal they couldn't escape from.

If Habitat for Humanity wants to be a developer, they should have to follow the zoning bylaws like everyone else. The rules are there for a reason. Otherwise they should go back to doing what they do best - build two or four homes at a time in places that revitalize the neighbourhoods they're in and where they fit in with existing homes.

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Message ID: 329184
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: sandra sellars
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I have lived in St.Albert for the better part of 17 years, and have always had to defend it's citizens as being snobs...thanks...you just proved everyone right Mr Perry! You also succeeded in offending myself and my three kids, and many others I'm sure. Even for a split second made me doubt the sincerety of my friendships with high income earners. Just like you think low income families=unruly families....some people think high income earners=snobs. Neither statement is true.

I am a single Mom...make a decent buck, but def a low income earner, as far as you would be concerned. I have held a gov't job for 25 yrs, not a drug addict, or alcoholic. My 3 kids have always had a roof over their heads, food on the table and clothes on their backs. Oh...and they played hockey, soccer, basketball, dance, swam, baseball.....even though I"m a low income earner and shouldn't be able to afford such luxuries.....according to you Mr. Perry!

My youngest is going into high school, and is an asset to St.Albert. She does fantastic volunteer work...oh wait...for low income people though, so I guess that doesn't count in you mind? Not once, did I have to buy my kids a friend. In fact, they have friends from both sides of the financial fence. They established their own 'status' with their personalities. And...though I live in a co-op condo...I have a revolving door of good teens. Like the rest of life, drugs are a choice. They aren't forced upon anyone through social status. Maybe Mr. Perry, you should be trying to teach your kid how to be a good person, give him a personality rather than material objects. I ask you Mr. Perry, is your child now embarassed to know that YOU believe he could not make friends without your cash? I now feel sorry for your child. You obviously have no idea about the wrath of a teenager.
Maybe you should have researched St.Albert a little more before moving here....drugs have been rampant here forever! Did it ever occur to you, Mr. Perry, that maybe St.Albert doesn't want snobs like you living here? Maybe you should go back to your protected back yard.

Oh,by the way....I noticed you failed to mention what business it is that you own here in town.

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Message ID: 329181
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Rosalba Politi
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This is in responce to Chris and Karleena Perry's article "Higher-earning families part of St. Albert's appeal"....I am not going to insult anyone here. My intent in responding is to educate the Perry family . I would like to point out some facts that I think Mr. and Mrs. Perry obviously are unaware of.

I question whether they have researched the criteria of who is eligible for Habitat for Humainity housing. They seem to have a false perception that only "crime-ridden" individuals will live in such housing. This is false. In order to qualify one must;
1. have an income between $32, 000 -$ 54,000 annually.
2. at least have one adult employed ful-time year round.
3. good credit rating.
4. balance between debt and income.
5. if the family experienced bancruptcy they must have been discharged for two years.

This information was taken from the Edmonton HFH's web site.

Low income doesn't guarantee crime just like high income doesn't guarantee law-abiding citizens.

I grew up in St. Albert and my parents were far from rich. I never felt second-class.

Money comes and goes. Remember this, especially in today's economy and recession. Many "rich" people are losing their jobs and are finding it hard to pay the bills. This can happen to you and your family. No one, regardless of their "class" is exempt. If it does, wouldn't you want community support and the availability of organizations that could possibly help you?

Rosalba Politi, Morinville, AB (yes, I live in Morinville...does that make me "second-class"?)

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Message ID: 329178
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Kevan Trebell
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WOW!!! is all I can say. I can not beleive that someone would even have the guts to write something like this....

I do not and have not lived in St. Albert.... but i have always heard that the people of St. Albert are stuck up but i figured that was just a sterio-type.... I never in my wildest dreams ever thought Id be reading something like this from anyone ANYWHERE!

I do not live in a "rich" area, have never lived in such an area, i dont even live in a "rich" city, again never have.... I live in Leduc, and used to live in Millwoods, Edmonton and for a time in Althlone (north edmonton)and from all these place I have seen the same thing. Drugs, crime, and some schools were even crowded. But what else they had in common was a wide variety of income levels.
I grew up in a single family home, and fairly low- income and I will admit i was a 'wild child' but i was wild with kids who came from dual parent homes who had everything they could ever want including nice cars at 16, and kids who came from foster/ group homes, welfare.... and the fact that we could all party together shows that it doesnt matter what walk oflife the kid is from they are going to do it! A previous comment was that kids do it because they are bored.... and I cant tell you how right that person is! We deffinatly did it because we were bored, because we knew our parents wouldnt find out, for the thrill of getting away with it! IT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH SOCIAL STANDING!!! I had my first ciggarett while spending the night at a friends house.... oh that friend LIVED IN ST. ALBERT Fox Burro i think!!!! My first joint was given to me from a 'rich' kid who lived*dun dun dun* IN ST. ALBERT OMG do i see a pattern here? I lived, and went to school in edmonton and my first smoke, first joint came from people in St. Albert. So from that am I supposed to keep my kids away from St. Albert kids becaus they are a bad influence?! NO! that would be rediculous! they are just as likely to run into that problem with kids from Leduc, Beaumont, Spruce Grove, Calgary, Toronto, Brantford, St. Johns.... Common theme? they all have the same problems doesnt matter the wealth of the community!

As for Habitat for Humanity which seems to be the biggest issue.... I dont think the Perry's know what they are really about! They arent the average 'low income' lets build 'the projects' kind of group! They build homes for people devistated by things like fire, flood, Hurricane Katrina or Ike, spouses who have been beaten and are trying to start a new life for themselves and their kids, families who try and work so hard but just cant afford to get a house or first and last months rent on the ever increasing rental rates for ever decreasing aparement sizes and have had to live in a shelter. Where do you think these people go? Do you think that the people who were affected by Katrina and Ike had $100,000 set aside as a "just in case we are hit by a hurricane this year" fund? WOULD YOU? what would happen if a fire like the Grant MacEwan fire were to ravage your community and your inssurance were to laps by a day or two? would you be able to compleatly rebuild your lives? I dont think so! And what if heaven forbid you loose your business? then what? do you have a secondary plan for not having a house and suddenly loosing your job? Most people i know dont. What if you had the opportunity to have a home, all you had to do is help build the housing, and pay a subsidised mortgage? Would you take that opportunity? PROBABLY! Would that make you a degenerate, or a drug dealer, would that bring down the education the people in your sons class would receive? Doubtful.

Something that my mom always told me is before you place judgement, or blame put yourself in their shoes. Did you look up Habitat for Humanity? Did you see their screening process or are you going based on the fact that these people wont be paying the same amount for their mortgage as you pay?
I can understand that the land was set aside as a school area but in a city where your (as you have bragged about) class sizes are so small what is more important.... continuing to save the land (when the school can be built else where) or having a mother/ or father and their kids, who were so beaten by the other parent the had to leave with nothing but the clothes on their back, have a safe home in an established area? for me it would be the latter but hey I just live in Leduc where our class sizes average about 17-20 students, and we have a walking trail that litterally goes from one end of town to the other, and an amazing rec. center and free library, and low crime rate.... we also have a lower income level and just as hard workers as you are.

SO I hope that you can take a step down off of your soap box, take your rose colourd glasses off, however you want to put it and see that what you are saying is wrong on so many levels.... at least HOW you said it is!
YOU ARE NOT BETTER THAN ME BECAUSE I AM A STAY AT HOME MOM, AND A FULL TIME STUDENT AND MY HUSBAND IS A 'LOWLY' ELECTRICIAN. YOU ARE NOT BETTER THAN ME BECAUSE YOU LIVE IN ST. ALBERT. YOU ARE NOT BETTER THAN ANYONE WHEN YOU ACTUALLY THINK THAT YOU ARE BETTER THAN PEOPLE! I hope that you son knows that and I hope he can grow and be better people than you SEEM to be!

Kevan Trebell
Leduc Alberta

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Message ID: 329176
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: amanda murphy
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So you Chris and Karleena Perry feel as though you “deserve” to live in St. Albert because you are very financially stable? You feel as though your children deserve to partake in the fantastic schools, sports etc that this city has to offer more so than a single mother of two kids who works 40-50 hours a week to provide for her kids only to earn a fraction of what you depict that you earn? You’re saying that because she earns less that her kids will influence your kids in a bad way? That with more low income families in this city the crime rate will rise, or their will be “unruly” families? Firstly, have you ever so much as Googled Habitat for Humanity? Maybe you should, you will learn that there are very strict guidelines that each applicant has to reach.

You feel as though because you can buy more material things for your children that it makes you better? I honestly hope that our kids never cross paths with your children, as I would never want your children influencing mine. I was raised by a single mother in this city (where I was born). My mother worked her butt off for us so we could stay in this city; she raised us with morals, integrity and compassion for others which obviously you are lacking. She raised us to never take anything for granted, to never think that we are better than anyone else and to always treat everyone equal. And, would you believe it, neither my brother or I were involved in any crime, nor did my mother ask the city for any subsidies for our sports. Both of us have attended post secondary and are contributing tax paying citizens of St. Albert.

St. Albert is not a private city where you have to meet certain requirements to move here. It’s a city just like any others, a city that welcomes everyone. It would appear that you are looking for a gated community with private schools which St. Albert can’t offer you so maybe you should take your high horse and move somewhere that can offer that to you.

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Message ID: 329174
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Megan Haggerty
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A Modest Proposal. By Jonathan Swift in 1729 AD.

Full title - A Modest Proposal: For Preventing the Children of Poor People in Ireland from Being a Burden to Their Parents or Country, and for Making Them Beneficial to the Public (you can read his original pamphlet here: http://en.wikisource.org/wiki/A_Modest_Proposal )

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Message ID: 329173
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Jack Dagley
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I wonder if Mr. and Mrs. Perry would look down on members of the military. Many live in St. Albert and I don't believe most members get paid a ton of money. However,the right to make such vile comments was earned by just those military members and those that came before them. Shame on you.

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Message ID: 329171
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Sue D
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This is NIMBY on steroids ! I cannot believe that this letter isn't an April Fools' Day prank. That anybody in the 21st century can be so ignorant is beyond me. A couple of points for you, Mr. Perry: firstly, you personally, in Kingswood, do not live in one of the more affluent neighborhoods of St. Albert, despite what you think. Secondly, the only "better upbringing" your children could possibly attain has nothing to do with which city they live in - it has everything to do with what they hear and see in their own home. May I remind you of Wilferd Peterson's quotation: “Our children are watching us live, and what we are shouts louder than anything we can say.” I pity your children growing up in such a stunted red-neck environment, not being allowed to attend local movie nights because there might be some $40,000/year manual laborers in the crowd. Such danger must be avoided at all costs! I think the majority of St. Albert residents must be absolutely mortified that you have aligned yourself with them and pretended to be a spokesperson for the entire community. Are we to believe that every child in the school system in St. Albert has a price tag printed on his/her forehead so that every other child knows whether this is a "poor" child or a wealthy one? Or that children have to visit each other's home to assess the home and possessions before they can consider being friends? News for you Mr. Perry - most children are far more compassionate than you. They only want to play with each other, go outside and kick a ball around or play shinny hockey on the street - I've yet to meet children who have to run a credit check on potential friends. This letter has so many ill-conceived thoughts and ignorant statements that it is hard to address all of them. I'm glad that you think you "deserve" the better standard of living Mr. Perry; I'm also glad that you're very far away from my middle class neighborhood in Edmonton. To have you as a neighbor must be a very hard cross for anyone to bear - listening to your tripe all day long would be sickening. I pity your children Mr. Perry, and I pray for your soul. You really should educate yourself before your children get much older so that you can provide a proper environment for them to grow up in - an environment of compassion and empathy. And don't bother writing your so-called "apology" letter. You are in so deep already that your best bet would be to just shut up and go away for a long holiday. You can afford it - and you "deserve it". You've already put both feet into your mouth; unless you have a third leg then there's nothing left for you to add.

Forums message number 329167 has been flagged as offensive by a user.

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Message ID: 329167
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Sylvia Johnson
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I moved here almost two years ago, with my two children and a husband who was terminally ill with esophageal cancer. I kept him home, and cared for him myself, while arranging for my children to start the school year. I decided that they needed to be surrounded by caring, and loving people, and so decided to keep them in their present school systems. Therefore, they did and my son still continues to go to school in Edmonton. I work in the evenings, and drive him in the morning, but it is worth it.
I grew up in the inner city in Edmonton, as did my children, and never did drugs, never committed a crime, and gave my children everything they ever wanted, within reason. They grew up honest, and I am very proud of them. They also do not do drugs, have never been in trouble with the law, and know the pride that comes with an honest days work. My daughter works full time, is upgrading, and is also applying this week to get her degree in Education. My 13 year old son was looking for a job this past month so he could help out here. Do you, Mr. Perry, have the same pride in your children? I think not. I really feel sorry for you. You feel because you have more than me, that you are better than me, well, you are wrong. I have people around me who love me no matter what. I have people who have never met me love me because of my attitude. I can say that with all honesy.I am not boasting, I am stating a fact. My children and I have more than this pitiful excuse for a human will ever have.

I am really interested in knowing what business this....am finding it hard to find a description...."man" operates so I can boycott it. The only thing I can add to what has already been said, is that he and his family are an embarrassment. Now he is trying to backpedal and save what little he can out of this mess, well, Chris, you have shown me exactly what kind of man you are, and I pity you. What a sad little man.

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Message ID: 329166
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Camelia Parker
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WoW! I really thought it was a bad April fools joke by the St.Albert Gazette. Mr & Mrs. Perry I get that your well off but imagine you didn't have your business and you needed help from Habitat for Humanity what would you do then? That would be ironic wouldn't it? Can you ask yourself what would it feel like to be living with a low income and raising kids? I think a HUGE apology is due here. I find your comments really disappointing and if you knew better you would have never made those comments. I came from a low-income family but I have never been part of any "gang" or gotten involved in any sort of criminal behavior. I am a university grad student.Not everyone is a trustfund baby. I don't think you get the magnitude of hurt you have brought on to your neighbors or the people who depend on the Habitat for Humanity. You say 'sorry' because this letter was posted and you got caught but I doubt your apology is genuine. I feel bad for your kids and what environment they are brought up in. I hope they learn better and realize that money doesn't make you who you are today.

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Message ID: 329165
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: T B
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After having a wonderful Eatser Dinner with my children I sat down to watch the evening news and shocked to say the very least at this appalling segment. I am a single mother of 2. I live in Fort Saskatchewan. My children play sports (of their choice) all year around. They have excellent grades and attendence. I work my butt off for them to have everything that a 2 parent household would provide so to say that low-income families cause crime, drugs and gang violence is just plain ignorant and maybe those who believe it should be educated. My childner do not smoke anything, steal anything or even swear. I taught my children to be compasionate, honest, loyal and to not judge which is what the Perry family is doing. Children's status at school is not reflected on how much their parents have but on how they are towards everyone so if the Perry's childern are or were having problems at school and making friends maybe that is the reason not income status. Also as a side note there is no racism when it comes to drugs, crime and violence. Your neighbour no matter where you live could be a victim of addiction or abuse.

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Message ID: 329164
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Tim Taylor-Smith
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Mr. and Mrs. Perry:

Thank you for your letter to the St. Albert Gazette.

When the paper arrived at my door Saturday morning, I was planning to have a leisurely day. After reading your extremely ignorant, bigoted claptrap (I actually read it twice, thinking it was a joke!) I was able to rake my yard in record time. I apologize to my tender roses that I was so rough on them.

I have lived in St Albert for over 30 years. St Albert isn’t about the income of the residents - it's about the people that are willing to know their neighbours and willing to create a strong friendly and inclusive (NOT EXCLUSIVE) community.

I would rather be a Braesider than a Kingswoody.

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Message ID: 329163
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Robb McCaghren
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What can I possibly say that hasn't already been said? This idiot has put his opinion of himself and his God given right as an upper class, higher income earner to be protected from the dregs of society. And by "dregs", I mean people who earn less than he does.

Give someone with his mentality enough rope, and they'll hang themselves, I suppose. Google his name, and you'll see that his ignorant message of entitlement hasn't just made a ripple in a small community as social media has become a megaphone with which his own words have created a Tsunami that is only getting stronger and is tearing it's way through the National consciousness, coast to coast.

It was once said by a GREAT man - "It's better to remain silent and thought of as a fool than to speak up and remove all doubt".

Well Chris, I'm happy to see that whether poor, rich, middle class, lower class or high class, your opinion stands well apart from the masses, and those who DO share your opinion are neither dumb enough or confident enough to speak up in a public forum.

I'd love to say I hope Kharma pays you a visit, but I'd say she's already been and gone. Take solace in the realization however, that should your own words create a backlash that costs you everything - from social ostracization to the boycotting and possible failure of your business, not to mention the backlash that is sure to be felt by your wife and son (Even your own MOTHER told you you were discriminatory!) - that you can rely on the poor and indigent to help you make your way, and I hope that you'll have your eyes opened to the true nature of the human soul when the very people you railed against in ignorance reach out to YOU and offer you a hand up, despite all else.

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Message ID: 329161
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Elad
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How about instead of talking about one person's uninformed comments the media reports the real issue behind the story.

Local residents are fighting to save designated municipal school reserve land from being turned into a high density, direct control, low-income/affordable, row housing complex.

How would you feel if you bought your house next to a municipal school reserve, paid a premium for it, and then found out the city officials you voted, Apollo Homes, and HFH, for were trying to turn that space into a development like this?

There was no public consultation. There was no regard for the current bylaws in place to make room for future school sites or to protect the small amount of green space in this part of St. Albert. Reserve sites, according to the bylaws of St. Albert, must either be used as such or be reverted back to green space/parkland if they are not used as they were intended.

Look up the facts. The letter to the Gazette by this family only points the focus of this issue in the wrong direction.

It's noteworthy that this family doesn't actually live in the Akinsdale area and doesn't appear to come even remotely close to the statements and efforts made by the people who live in Akinsdale.

Point the focus in the right direction or Apollo Homes and HFH will be able to push this through and maximize their returns based on this project's proposed high density.

All at the expense of hard working families who are no different than you or I, but with values that aren't in line with the family who's uninformed letter created this uproar.

It will be very interesting to see how the Mayor and the City Council of St. Albert will fare in the upcoming civic election. I can only imagine that if this project gets pushed through as planned, the residents of Akinsdale who didn't vote for anyone at all last election will be waiting in line to make sure that they exercise their democratic right this time.

It seems like an easy way to let their city council know how they really feel about a decision to turn municipal school reserve land into a high density row housing complex.

/endrant

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Message ID: 329162
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Louise Wunderlich
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I was shocked to see that in this day and age such blatant snobbery still exists. Unless they won the lottery, given the age of this couple, I am sure they got help somewhere along the way as they own not only a successful business but a home in a rich neighbourhood in St. Albert. It appears that they have forgotten that in order to be successful a business must rely on "ordinary people" to work and buy from you. After reading that letter I would like to know what business they own because I would never dream of buying anything from them. I would not want to add to their sense of entitlement and would much rather support a business that is struggling and needs my support. These people obviously do not. Living in the "upper" end of St. Albert has given them a sense of entitlement and a view on the world that is not held by the majority. The majority of people who reside in St. Albert are nice, hardworking people who have struggled hard to work and provide for their families. This family seems to be so successful that they don't really have a realistic viewpoint on how hard life can be. Their comments about low income families is so far from reality it is obvious they have both been brought up with a silver spoon in their mouths.

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Message ID: 329160
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Leona Elchuk
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I am absolutely appalled by the ignorance of Chris and Karleena Perry. This is not however, the first time that our province has demonstrated that the poor are not welcome here. A few years back, Premier Ralph Klein offered welfare recipients who came from outside Alberta, a one-way ticket back to wherever it was they came from. The reactions of your readers to the Perry ravings are well-deserved. I suggest that a hearty boycott of their business might teach them some humility-- an 'acquisition' they are in desperate need of.

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Message ID: 329158
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: ans haarman
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This letter from Chris Perry has me upset the whole Easter wekend. I do need to say a few things.
you have moved here to St.Albert. You did NOT help this great community beiing build as to what it is now. What right do you have to come to St Albert and think you are better then us.
You have hurt my feelings . As a citizen from St.Albert since 1974 coming from Europe and with a average family income you made me feel that I do not belong here either. As a bussines owner do you look down on your staff as they are not as well off as you are. Great to have a boss like you. You put shame on your whole family and your name will not be forgotten. At least I can keep my head up high and show my face. I do feel sorry for your children as they grow up in a family that looks down on others and thinks they are better then the rest.
Maybe you should move back to where you came from with the bussines and family. We do not need this in St.Albert.
We have great bussines people and organizations that are doing so much for the community. you do Not belong to them.
I feel sorry for you.

Ans haarman.

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Message ID: 329156
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Billie Depatie
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I am shocked at what I just read! Everyone I know has told me that only people who stick their nose up at others live in St. Albert, and I never believed them. Well this couple should be right at the front of this line up. I can't believe you actually posted this unbelievable letter!

I guess low income families really should not come to such a "higher standard community" like St. Albert to do their shopping then. Why support this ignorant community. Granted the whole community does not feel this way I am sure....or I hope anyway.

How ignorant is it to say all low income families will bring crime to the community! And to not allow a great thing like Habitat for Humanity into the community due to your ignorance!

I am still shocked by this! I think people that like this couple should go live on an Island with others that are just like you. This way when crime happens, which it does no matter how much money you have, you can only look at one another. You might then realize that people with money are capable of committing a crime!
Low income families deserve respect just like anyone else.

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Message ID: 329157
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: MelanieF
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Mr & Mrs. Perry,
I too was stunned at your letter. I grew up in St.Albert and the attidude you express is puzzling. Your comments do not reflect the St. Albert that I know. Those of us who were raised here remember people such as Lois Hole, who always welcomed everyone with open arms and a hug and gave me, a shy little girl, my first geranium, free of charge, when my family went to buy flowers and pick strawberries near the tiny barn that was to be the foundation for what is now one of the finest greenhouses in North America. This is a community of tolerance that welcomes everyone and enjoys the differences among its residents. Just go to a Saturday farmers' market or spend a day at the International Children's Festival to see and meet the different people that come to our city and enjoy St.Albert as it should be-a place where everyone is welcome regardless of age, gender or income. It is a place I grew up in and now that I am an adult, a place I chose to remain in, having just bought my first home. I chose this city because it is indeed a community that shows its pride-in its beautiful parks, green space, in its people and in its generosity. So, before you comment on what makes this city unique, go out and explore the real St. Albert.

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Message ID: 329155
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Shawn Langholm
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Yep. If only that letter writer knew that it is the "rich" kids who are the biggest problem. They get a BMW at 16, money in their pockets, and drugs at hand, and these are the same ones who give their adults the finger without fear of getting a kick in the face...how I would love to one day. These types of letter writers are the same people (not all of course) who find it next to impossible to go and thank a volunteer coach for investing time in their son or daughter. Apples never fall from the tree....

I would really hate to be this guy (who wrote the letter)...I actually feel sorry for his kids who will bear the brunt of his thoughtlessness. Hard lesson to learn.

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Message ID: 329154
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Emily J
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It is painstakingly clear by this commentary, Mr. and Mrs. Perry, that you do not represent St. Albert. I would like to sincerely commend every individual who has taken the time to contest your ignorant and uneducated opinions. May I suggest that next time you feel the need to display your elitist remarks you further investigate the topic on which you are speaking. I grew up in St. Albert and what is more I grew up in an extremely low income household, which I am very proud of. Furthermore, I have never engaged in the activities you suggest will be brought to the community by low income housing. Clearly you are unaware that illegal drugs are and always have been an issue in the community, especially among children who feel the need to demonstrate to others their disposable income. The most difficult challenge I have had to overcome in three years of university is proving to individuals who live outside of St. Albert that I am more than a “spoiled brat”. May I commend you though for reinforcing this stereotype and bringing such negative attention to what is a lovely community, you should be ashamed. I hope that in some point in their lives your children are taught that money does not define the person, because clearly his parents are incapable of teaching the concept of meritocracy. I will not call you a disgrace to the community because I do not believe you represent the community at all. There have always existed hateful and discriminating individuals and your decision to post such commentary is no different than an individual who chooses to spout racist slurs.

I would ask you, Mr. and Mrs. Perry, to consider how you would feel in the future if you for some unexpected reason lost your business and required the help of Habitat for Humanity to put a roof over your heads. I doubt that your opinions would remain intact.

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Message ID: 329153
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: angela krilow
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Well Mr Perry, I cannot say much more than what has already been said.....except, that you may have alot of money, but you have NO class. I feel sorry for your children, being raised thinking that because they have money, they are entitled to more. Oh, yes, we here in Edmonton are also quite aware of the problems with St Albert youth, it also does make the news here in Edmonton. And I will bet you are a good churchgoing family also. Just remember something called Karma, what goes around comes around.

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Message ID: 329150
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Dustin Bizon
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To Wanitta Ranson. Thank you for putting up such a fact based incredibly well written response to an overly elitist ignorant piece of trash that Mr Perry's letter was. I also live in St. Albert and if Mr. Perry thinks that all the crime here is committed by the low income people in the less affluent areas of the city, then I invite him to leave his BMW unlocked with the keys in it outside of his castle in Kingswood.

I am also curious if a janitorial service company pays every single one of their employees well enough that they might "deserve" to live in St Albert.

As far as Mr. Perry's comments on drugs, I'm in full agreement with most commentors that it is the people who can afford the drugs are the ones doing them. You hear many stories of the inner city drug dealing youth from Edmonton who do the most business selling their product to the "rich kids" in St. Albert. Like someone already said, "check your teen's sock drawer".

As someone who also works in the Oilfield where there is a lot of high income people, why is it that virtually no company will allow anyone on site without a drug test. I invite Mr Perry to answer that one.

Finally, I would like to applaud Mr. Perry for the timing of his comments which happen to fall on a holiday where we are all supposed to be thinking of tolerance and understanding. I hope you are very proud of yourself.

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Message ID: 329149
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: sharon eling
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I am so upset by this "higher Income" idiot. I grew up in St.Albert went to school there and left at age 23. I grew up in Grandin and came from a single parent family...We were one of the only colored families in St. Albert when we attended Elementary schools...Let me tell you..and trust me I am biting my tongue. I have been through the discrimination, racism and alienation of living in St. albert. I am now working as a Lab Technician, my brother is an RCMP and 2 other brothers working in as a welder and carpenter...

I always wanted to bring my kids back to St. Albert but now I DON'T , I am trying to raise my kids to have compassion, empathy,and a heart. I would not want my kids to be friends with anyone that thinks that just because they have money they have everything. Money has been proven to not provide happiness at all.

I want you to come and show us all your face, I have contacted CTV and Global just so you can come on TV and tell us your rights as a rich person. I want you to show us your business so we can all NOT support you!! because buddy, what goes around comes around and one day, one day you are going to be in need. I kind of feel sorry for you, I really do but you know why I feel sorry? I feel sorry that you are raising your children to be like you. I don't believe for one instant that you were misunderstood. I think that you have made a huge mistake. You have ruined the reputation of a city that I grew up in and took pride in. I feel sorry for you and pray that you and your kids will learn once again, that it isn't the poor people or lower income that are the problem in St. Albert..it's the people like you and your family that are the problem in the WORLD. And it seems like you are your worst enemy, you are the one that will lose friends, income, respect, dignity, all because of who you are..a higher income earner. Good luck to you and your family really feel sorry for your children...looks like money and riches won't fix this problem!!!

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Message ID: 329148
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Joyce Boutette
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I think that Chris and Karleena Perry have done exactly what they set out to do. Create animosity towards the citizens of Aikensdale.
I am sure, if the Habitat for Humanity were to propose the 15 units on this property which is what they will gain from this project, it would be an acceptable project on that space. It is the enormous amount of box homes that are proposed that make it unacceptable. Even I, as a senior understand their frustration.
When we moved to St. Albert, we were attracted by the green spaces, treed boulevards and openess.
When the Aikinsdale lots were allowed to be made smaller, it was with the understanding that there would be a green space of 6 feet from their back fences not a parking lot.
If we don't live in the area, let's allow them to speak their minds and not condemn them as bad people which THEY ARE NOT. They are compassionate people who would like to see needy people get a home to be proud of.

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Message ID: 329146
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: rae macdonald
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Who are you to say that 'low income' families don't work hard and don't deserve to live here? I can almost assure you that low income families have to work harder because they don't have everything handed to them. And being low income doesn't mean that they are criminals or will grow up to be criminals. I should know. I grew up in place in st. albert where there were plenty of single moms...my mom being one of them. Some of these low income kids that you seem to think are criminals have gone on to join the army....Coming from a low income family just makes you appreciate what you have even more. It's the people that have less that would offer you the shirt off their back. We didn't always have what we wanted growing up but we had what we needed. Everyone deserves to live in a place like st. albert, not just those who have money. The amount of money a person has does not define who they are....Although, rIdiculous letters like the one you wrote sure does define the kind of person you are!

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Message ID: 329147
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Gary Anderson
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I have two plasma TVs, I earn more than 100K per year and I drive a Lexus, does this qualify me to live in St Albert. The Perry's are stupid and ignorant. I am happy I live in Toronto where you are not judged by where you live or what you own. We should consider ourselves fortunate that banks are willing to finance our dreams. If we lived in a society where you needed to earn the money to fund what you own, the Perry's would be homeless.

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Message ID: 329145
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: John Hayes
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Re the Perry's letter.

I was so shocked and disgusted to read the letter this so called Family wrote in this Saturdays Gazette.
ON what basis do you get the information you so blindly wrote. I ask as a parent, I best add a single father, Do I have to throw money at my daughters classmates to have her accepted by her peers.My child was raised to see more than a dollar sign as a grade to a good and decent person.
I moved form a class based society . To see it is alive in your comments is disgraceful.

I ask these people. If you wanted to see true class, go sit and have coffee with the very people you slam. Doing something right for a family is not based in anyway judged by the size of your bank account.

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Message ID: 329144
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: AFra
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This makes me very sad to admit that I live in St. Albert... As someone who grew up in this city, I would like to say that there were quite a few kids that came from 'lower income' homes... and they really never got treated very much different than anybody else. When I was in school, you would have been made fun of much more for having an attitude like Chris & Kareena Perry let alone your friends find out that it was your PARENTS that said that in a public forum like the St. Albert Gazette. St. Albert is part of Canada which is known for being nurturing of other religions, races and cultures. I understand that it was just someone (who is sadly rather uneducated and closed minded) opinion, but way to make St. Albert look great. This has already been heard of all over Canada.

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Message ID: 329143
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: JR
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Chris and Karleena Perry can't possibly think that their comments were taken "wrong". They said what they actually felt. Another demonstration of talk before you think from people with more money than brains. I have yet to see posted on the entrance to St Albert - only those with incomes in the $100,000 bracket and up are welcome. In this couples case they should have bene screened before being allowed to move here for intelligence and humanity (they seem to have failed at both).

Your attitudes and words are discrimanatory Chris but once again with your mentality you wouldnt understand that. I do feel sorry for yoru offspring who are learning that to make friends with your peers you must impress them with your worldly posessions. Scary. After having raised 2 children myself n this city I have found that the "elite" kids are the ones you have to watch out for. They are the ones that are given the money and told to amuse themselves without guidance or supervision and the drug problems tend to revovle around them. Funny that.

Build your Kingswood walls a little higher Chris and Karleena to continue living in your fantasy world. Irregardless of my financial standing I wouldnt give either of you the time of day. Money just can't fix stupid!

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Message ID: 329142
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: 12stepper
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Letters like this shows how small minded some people can be. If this is what people that live in St. Albert are like thank god I live elsewhere in Alberta. Who do you think gets the drugs to your community, the poor can not do it, it is usually people with money that have the connections to do this. Remember the old saying, the preachers kid was usually the worst on the block. Money is no guarantee of how children will turn out, kids get into trouble no matter what, try and shelter them all you want does not work. I have friends in St. Albert and addiction is alive and well in your "HIGH INCOME" community, how many 12 step meetings are there in town.

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Message ID: 329140
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: Patricia G
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Have we not learned from past history? We live in a great country and are lucky to have what we do! Perhaps Mr. Perry should read up on past events that happened in the world when mankind set out to isolate people and maintain an "elite society". There is no room for this in any city. Canadians are proud people who promote tolerance and understanding of needs in communities. Remember, a healthy community is a tolerant community that meets the needs of all!

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Message ID: 329139
Post On: April 5, 2010
Posted by User #: James Van Damme
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A memorable quote from a movie 68years ago, meaningful in response to this April 03, 2010 C&K letter, "If you can't say something nice... don't say nothing at all." -Thumper Source: http://www.twitter.com/jvdforcouncil

James Van Damme, St. Albert

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Message ID: 329129
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Andrea M
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The business that these people brought to st. albert claims to have a foundation that they "plan to help sponsor children of low income families attend sports in there communities." Hypocrites with awful spelling. We can only hope their children learn better grammar in St. Albert's far superior school system. Seriously, I feel bad for their kids. What a horrendous environment of hatred and intolerance to grow up in. I hope they get run out of town.

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Message ID: 329127
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Kaleigh L
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@ John Mill: They removed your post because you identified the business...they have been removing all posts that list the business info.

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Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: John Mill
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Remove this post too?

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Message ID: 329123
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Wanitta Ranson
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I was actually hoping that W Hartley's comment was written as sarcasm and not in support of C&K. BTW should we get rid of people with purple hair too? WAIT A MINUTE...my hair was purple when I was a teen so in that case I'm staying put!

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Message ID: 329120
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: h dutchak
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hopefully mr. and mrs. perry have the intention of clarifying their remarks and their views have simply been poorly communicated. there is no need for escalation or racism.

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Message ID: 329116
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Kaleigh L
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Upon first reading this I was sure it was satire, there was no way in my mind the Gazette would publish such a disgraceful letter. However now that their profiles on Facebook have mysteriously disappeared and after reading all the other comments, I think I may have been mistaken. Perhaps the writer should come forward and clear the air or apologize for this letter? Their business has been identified all over the internet, their address and children's names are displayed on social networking sites...they need to address the situation and attempt to remedy it before someone takes it too far. Letters, whether satire or genuine, may seem like a good way to make a statement at first but this one has created a gongshow!

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Message ID: 329115
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: B P
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Is this a late April fool's joke. If its not you people are disgusting. I live in an upper class neighborhood and i have no problem with the habit for humanity, in fact I encourage it! The so called "worries" you listed in letter are so ridiculous i don't even know where to begin with arguing with them. There is no arguing with people like you, your ideas are insane. If you haven't noticed already st. albert is the highest policed municipality per capita as it is. Oh and by the way the drug use in the city is already a very existing problem funded by people like your children. A child with wealthy parents that don't know how to control kids leads to high drug use in city. Check your kids sock drawer, you might be surprised. I am surprised that its as conservative as it with all these liberal mind sets. Next on list in killing your atrocious vision of st. albert's habitat for humanity future is your unbelievable vision of our schools. THIS IS A PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM i know i went through it! they are not going to prevent a child from entering because of economic status so get over it, and FYI laws of economics state that if more people go to our schools the school will get more funding therefore decreasing the amount of taxes we shall have to pay for the school system (not likely in st. albert, just because our city likes its taxes, but that not my point here). So i am not sure what people do for a living or where you lived before or how you can even walk through your front door every morning with that large arrogant ego around you, but its repulsive. If your sons friends read this article of yours in the paper some thing tells me he might have trouble fitting in again.

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Message ID: 329114
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Real McCoy
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Either the best piece of satire, or the worst piece of ignorant, bigoted, non-fiction, I've ever read. At first I was appalled, then humoured ("Surely this must be a joke!"), and at least relieved, after I saw people's disgust in the comments. I signed up for the website, JUST so that I could comment! ^_^

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Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Charity Sokolan
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I would like to encourage this ignorant pair to practise what they preach and stop all association with low income people. This includes avoiding all contact with grocery clerks, restaurant workers, garbage collectors, most people working the service industry, etc. Apparently they are better than low income people. To the folks who make peanuts for a living -- you're off the hook for serving these people.

May karma be with you,
Charity Sokolan, Onoway

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Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: h dutchak
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it is unfortunate if people less ridiculous than this family lose out should we choose not to give them our business, but i absolutely could not contribute to furthering the wealth of people so undeserving of it. if you do not want these views to be those that people consider to be representative of our city, let us all encourage those we know to express our disagreement and decline using their services...

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Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: robert mcbean
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i live in a very mixed neighborhood of calgary. lots of renting students and lots of professional people. i've never actually heard of anyone complaining about new development for these kind of reasons. i would welcome h4h in my neighborhood and will definitely donate to the st. albert project. boycotting someone's business should be thought out a bit more as it may have unintended consequences for people who do not share these odius views.

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Message ID: 329105
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: h dutchak
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chris and karleena - you do not represent the city on this issue. your circle of pathetic shallow friends may encourage this disgusting attitude but rest assured it is you, not low income families, that harm the character and reputation of our city. It is you who is not welcome here and when it becomes known which business you felt it necessary to bring to this city alongside your ignorance and greed, we will be sure to express our disgreement by way of refraining from supporting you. if you felt this opinion legitimate enough to post in a paper, i do hope you will stand by it enough to share the details of your business with the community. you embody everything that has detracted from st. albert over the past decades and it is my sincere hope that you, not low income individuals, have a hard time fitting in and being accepted.

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Message ID: 329098
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Laura Van
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I can honestly say that this makes me ashamed that I grew up here, it just makes me so dissapointed in humanity. Yeah right, all poor people do drugs and are just a burden to the community. I'm currently a University student, and I've got to say; I saw way more drugs in junior high school then I've EVER seen anywhere else. Who were the kids that had the resources to buy drugs? Oh the highest of the "high-standard" ones! You're completely ignorant if you think those problems belong solely to the less "high-standard" people. It's your kind of attitude that makes me cringe when people ask where I live. Your attitude is the reason people think St. Albertans are a bunch of egotistical snobs who are only worried about their possessions and higher status whatevers. Being a student I know PLENTY of people who are scraping to get by, and thankfully they don't associate with people like you or they'd probably get kicked out of St. Albert.

Laura, St. Albert.

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Message ID: 329097
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Ravanne L
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I found this article courtesy of my mother.
As a high school student who has grown up in St.Albert with one parent, I can assure you that growing up in St.Albert was a small obstacle for me, especially since in the beginning you would consider my family to have a low income. But I have always found friends in my schools, some of them from high income families, and who have not judged me for not having as many possessions as they have, or not as big a house, or no car to myself. I was accepted for my kindness by those who mean very much to me in this town.

I have had some students who did look down on me, but let me tell you how stupid it makes the sons and daughters of the "higher middle class" when they would look down on me as a child. They looked ridiculous in the eyes of multiple parents and friends, and I always had a shoulder to cry on as a child.

I am graduating next year, and am applying for scholarships. I have been on the honour roll since Junior High. I may not have your money, but I have my intelligence, I am going to a performing and visual arts school, and I have often been called very mature and sophisticated for my age.

I can assure you that there are many drugs in St.Albert, and as a student of the Edmonton Public School system, I have seen less drug use in Edmonton than I have in St.Albert. From higher and lower class teens alike.

I can assure you that your views are NOT shared by the better and wholesome people of this community, as well, I will be submitting a rebuttle to the St.Albert Gazette in the following week. If accepted, I hope it shows the people like you in my community what a child who has a modest income can do.

Have a fantastic day.

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Message ID: 329096
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Tanner Waldo
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I'm donating $50 to Habitat for Humanity. On their website you can set your donation "In Honour of..." and I will be making my donation In Honour of Chris and Karleena Perry". I challenge everyone else who reads this to give what they can and "honour" the Perry family in the same way!

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Message ID: 329095
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Jean Chicoine
Posted by IP:

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A friend of mine used to say, "The more money you got, the less brain matter you're left with!" Well, you two are a living proof of that.
Drugs? Drugs are everywhere, rich or poor neighborhood, and you're totally delusional if you go on thinking it's not happening in your bled.
High standard? Your article just shows how low your standards are, filled with greed, ignorance, selfishness and vanity.
The two of you need a good smack on the head. You know who I feel the most sorry for? Your son. Poor kid. Because of your article he might find it a bit less comfortable at school.
The thing is, you gloat from way up there on your high-income lifestyle, but the last economic crisis has shown us (if we needed to be reminded of that, and it seems that some of us never learn) that even people in your position can fall down. Who would you turn to, then? Your well off circle of friends? Will they even look at you? The people you spat on? They're probably the ones who would lend a helping hand, in spite of.
Oh but listen, I've got an idea. Why don't the rich people of St Albert buy the town, boot out the losers and build a tall glistening fence around it? On Sundays we'll take our kids and grand-kids to St Albert to marvel at the class and beauty of the well-off in their enclave.
Grow up, Chris and Karleena. Smarten up.
Hey, by the way, put on Bob Dylan's Like A Rolling Stone. Give it a good listen. It's about the likes of you.

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Message ID: 329094
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Kay MacKinnon
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I am so sorry to read something like this, and I feel pity towards Karleena and Chris Perry. Perhaps ignorance is bliss, but what sad, little lives that they lead.

If anyone knows what business they run, please do let me know, at kailynmackinnon@hotmail.com. I will be avoiding the place, obviously, and I will be sure to let my friends and family to do the same.

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Message ID: 329093
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Roxanne
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Today is the day I have finally lost all hope in the upper-class of St. Albert. Yes, I am addressing Chis and Karleena Perry. Your article brings shame to our city. I am currently an 18 year old high school student who as of now has not met a single person who has judged me based on my status of wealth.
"We won’t feel comfortable taking our kids to activities like movie night in the park or other St. Albert events for fear that there will be unruly families." I have lived in St. Albert my entire life and have never once seen an 'unruly family', I have only seen kids who are on drugs and public drinking for fun.
Where you two are getting your information from makes me sum what sceptical. "Like it or not, the children of St. Albert are high-standard children and have no place for low-income classmates. When we first moved to St. Albert our teen had a hard time fitting in because of money and it was hard on him. Now he is good, but it did not go away with just a loving hug — his status was accomplished once his friends saw our house and other possessions." This statement sounds like it's your own and not your sons. Furthermore, if your son has friends who jugde based on your house and possessions I would be worried about how good of friends they really are. I am not naive to think that there are people out there that judge that way, but I would not want them to be my friends.
Since you two are so passionate about the community why not join a board like habitat for humanity and make sure that no ‘unruly families’ move in. Or, you could volunteer yourself and see the hard work and dedication that goes into building these homes.
Lastly I would like to say that if you want to keep out “drugs at elementary schools or gang fights at the high schools.” you should look to more pressing matters than housing for people who work hard to make a home. You should be putting your time towards issues like the people in St. Albert who already supply drugs to students, live in St. Albert, and how more can be done to make sure they are prosecuted. This is the real world. Crime is not brought up by people who need homes and are willing to work for them. By judging people based on their status of wealth you are only adding to the problem.

-Roxanne, St. Albert

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Message ID: 329092
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Wanitta Ranson
Posted by IP:

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Seriously???? There are sooo many things morally wrong with your comments※and BTW what planet have you been living on!
Perhaps you should come down out of your new castle in Kingswood and take a drive through the rest of St.Albert, the real St.Albert. Peruse the original, older neighborhoods. Take a cruise through the multi-family housing developments. How about, if you dare, talk to some of those residents. It may surprise you to know that some of them may have started out living in LOW INCOME housing. To take it a step further, some of your neighbors may have worked their way UP into homes such as your own. Your elitist attitude gives other people who can afford living in development such as yours as bad name.
Fact: not all schools in St.Albert are created equal. Some of them struggle with the same issues as Edmonton schools with overcrowding and low funding for programs.
Fact: the St.Albert food bank ALWAYS needs donations. In recent years that need has increased. It’s not just low income people who are in need. Some of them are people who are way over their head in debt because they are trying to keep up with some Appleby’s in developments such as your own.
Fact: if you think there aren’t drugs in elementary schools you are wrong. ALL schools have had this issue from time to time. Some Jr. and High schools bring in drug sniffing dogs for random locker checks.
Fact: you might be shocked to know that some of the more prolific drug dealing and manufacturing houses are in neighborhoods like yours. As a couple of examples: Oakmont this past winter where a couple of people were stabbed at a party and Deer Ridge where a few houses had to be condemned because of Meth labs, one of which was kitty-corner to an elementary school. Where do you think drug dealers like to live? Not in low income housing. They can afford to live right next to YOU.
Fact: there are already at least two low income, affordable housing complexes in St.Albert and they don’t have any more criminal activity than any other place in St.Albert
Fact: there are kids in every school who pick on other kids. Bullies have been around since the beginning of time. It’s a fact of life! My kids went to a school in a higher income area. They didn’t experience the issues you mentioned regarding the appearance of status. PLEASE, you aren’t giving young people much credit! I also didn’t buy them the latest fashions so they could fit in or feel the need flaunt a fancy house or possessions. In other words I didn’t buy their status.
Fact: here is where you really need to give young people a lot more credit. My kids, as with many kids, have made friends with others from all over St.Albert. Their friends come from all different, as you would like to label, social classes. I think if YOU talk to other kids you will find that they don’t put as much stock into status as you do.
Fact: just because you are low income doesn’t mean you are NOT hardworking.
There is just so much more that I could say!
I grew up in a very low income family. My mother got food from the food bank and donations from kindly neighbors. Some days food was so sparse that I would go to bed hungry. Sometimes my shoes were so small that my toes got blisters. My clothes were hand-me-downs from other families around us or very occasionally from Goodwill. I didn’t get to join soccer, or take music lessons. Despite this I became a hardworking member of society and if I was standing next to you I bet you wouldn’t be able to tell that I came from those humble beginnings. What gives you the right to judge low income people so harshly? If you think it is the amount of money you make or the possessions you have then I feel very sorry for you. You make it sound like all low income people are a bunch of rowdy, low-life, *************, drug dealing criminal yahoos that should have their own little island colony far, far away from the rest of society. This is very sad. My only hope for you is that your misguided beliefs in who is worthy of your approval doesn’t rub off on your child. Tsk, tsk.
One last note: perhaps you can share which business you own so I can make sure I don’t dirty your door step with my presence.

Forums message number 329091 has been flagged as offensive by a user.

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Message ID: 329091
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Rick Smith
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Quite possibly the most disgusting display of arrogance, entitlement, and elitism I've ever seen in a letter. No wonder your teen had problems fitting in. If they espouse the same values as you, I'm surprised they weren't beaten to a pulp the very first day.

Forums message number 329090 has been flagged as offensive by a user.

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Message ID: 329090
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: B P
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Phew! Thank goodness I live in squalid, unwashed Edmonton. I wouldn't want my evil, "bus pass" ways to interfere with the crushingly sterile urban environment you champion.

My metaphorical "bus pass" allows me to interact with hundreds of diverse people each and every day. There are ugly (and sometimes very sad) moments, but the experience is overwhelmingly positive and satisfying.

As a former inner-city high school student, I remember being shocked by the stories of violence and hard drug abuse coming out of St. Albert schools, and we could only presume that they were incidents born of boredom and frustration. Just remember that the drugs you are so scared of are used as an ESCAPE; be careful to not build too many walls.

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Message ID: 329089
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Natalie Mikus
Posted by IP:

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I am an "above average income" family. You make me embarrassed to have grown up, and lived in St Albert. You are also the reason that I am hesitant to raise my children in St Albert. My parents live in Kingswood and were MORTIFIED at the "Privilege has It's Place" sign.
I would like to know which business you own - I would love to make a point of avoiding it to encourage families like yours setting up shop in my community.

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Message ID: 329088
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Mary Waugh
Posted by IP:

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I do not consider this couple as "snobs" but as egotistical, self-centered,greedy lowly of the lowest people. They will also be the first ones who cry "help" when their children are bullied, picked and on and ignored. I sincerley hope their children will stand up and be counted as not one of the ones who think the way their parents do. I am sorry to see that we have such people in our area of the country. If you think your schools in St Albert are drug free and have no bullies then you are sadly mistaken. Drugs are prevalent in all communities, be they rich or poor. I sincerely hope that you do not profess to be Christians because if you do I really wish you would get out of this area of Canada. The only place you are going to find your type of utopia is somewhere in the far north where there is no one around for thousands of miles and then you cannot influence anyone else in the world. I can envision a sad and lonely life for people of your standards.

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Message ID: 329087
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Lee Chamney
Posted by IP:

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Does anyone know which business they own? It'd be good to know where the low-income families already in St. Albert shouldn't be spending their hard-earned money

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Message ID: 329086
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Colton Zukewich
Posted by IP:

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I'm part of a family that has been living in this community a good 25-50 years. WHen we moved here there was no kingswood. I'm sorry if we,The majority of st.albert's population and possibly the majority of your buissness is not good enough for your elitest atitude. If you think that your better than everyone one else because you have a few more digits on your paycheck,fine, But you do not have to have to write in to our newspaper about so everyone can see what you think and know that you base someone not on their character,but on the amount they receive in a paycheck.

After reading this i think it's clear that your so much wealthier than the rest of us that you don't need our buissness.I'm just making it clear you won't see me,my neighbours,my friends, and my family buying or using any of your products any time soon.

Your opnion may change after you've learned that i am twelve years old, but i had no aid typing this and it is my personal opnion.

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Message ID: 329084
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: mendicant zero x
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Yeah, because we all know that only (and all) poor people are unruly criminals who do drugs. I guess that means all people with money are closed minded selfish jerks who I probably wouldn't let _my_ children interact with.

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Message ID: 329083
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Fred Trotter
Posted by IP:

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Chris & Karleena, you're from the subdivision with the big sign that says something like "Where Privilege has its Place"? By the sounds of things you've found your "niche".

Oh, and thank you for the plug against what's happening in Akinsdale, because YES, this could be coming to your neck of the woods very soon....

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Message ID: 329082
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Sarah Barton
Posted by IP:

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This story is actually quite baffling to me. First of all, as a 19 year old girl I would like to say that kids (at least normal ones) do NOT place such high standards on other peers based on how much money they make. If anything, they're known as rich little brats who get anything and everything they want. The only friends they have are other rich little snobs. I feel sorry for your kids. If they weren't fitting in before, I'd like to see them trying to fit in now, with their parents publishing such an embarrassing and unmoral view in the city's local newspaper. Second, I do not know what your business is, but if I do see it, I'll know never to go there, and let all my friends know too. Obviously you seem well off enough with your high end house, you don't need any more support from the community, and I doubt you'll get it now. It's people like you that give St.Albert a bad reputation. With all the money you have, you'd think you could help out those less fortunate. You must also be really naive if you think drugs aren't bad in schools in St.Albert. Where there's lots of money, there's lots of drugs. St.Albert probably has more of a drug problem than a lot of Edmonton schools have. And you really think sheltering children from every danger life is a good thing? As it is St.Albert is already a classless, white dominated bubble. Coming from Vancouver, the lack of culture already in this city almost disgusts me. But for people like you, who can't stand anything that isn't high standard, I guess it makes sense that you would fear anything that could bring a slight change or splash of colour to the community. I truly feel sorry for shallow, stupid people like you.

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Message ID: 329081
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Heather Cee
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This is so incredibly disappointing - you've had the benefit of education, of prosperity, and good luck. And now, it seems, greed and ignorance.

Do you really want to raise your child to believe that he needs to accomplish his status by showing off his possessions? Do you really want to instill that kind of shallow, money-grubbing attitude in him? The 'high-standard' children of St. Alberta are no better than the children of Edmonton, and no worse. We do not live in an economic apartheid community in Canada. It seems you wish we still did.

Take your faux-riche attitudes and give them a long, hard examination...perhaps you can purchase some humility while you're at it. None of us are so financially stable that we can't fall on hard times, and Habitat for Humanity is trying to help those who have.

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Message ID: 329080
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: jerry wowk
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Ditto, Ms. Kearns. "Snobs" is a euphemism for what this pair is espousing. You're probably right -- delayed April Fools, the pair. I've lived in this community since the early 1970s and this is quite honestly the first time I've seen statements as audacious and blatantly disrespecting of others as theirs. I'd hope that it is not only their teen who has "a hard time fitting in."
Jerry Wowk, St. Albert

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Message ID: 329076
Post On: April 3, 2010
Posted by User #: Deberah Kearns
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When I read the letter by Chris and Karleena Perry I checked my calendar to see if it was April Fool's Day. What unbelievable snobs! The implication that low-income families would bring crime, not have "high-standard" children or not be able to maintain their properties is outrageous.

Isn't it shallow that their son's "friends" judge him by his possessions? Honestly I'd rather not have this couple in my circle of friends, whether or not they make lots of money-they'd likely consider me a low income earner.

Deberah Kearns, St. Albert