I was quite appalled when I read a letter to the editor entitled, “Market not family friendly.” I believe it is irresponsible, unrealistic and insulting to claim the market is not family friendly “due to the negligence of the organizers of the market.” Part of the charm of this large outdoor market is the fact that it is held outdoors. Certainly, judging by the overwhelming attendance of parents, children and others each Saturday morning during the summer months, it would appear that the majority of us are satisfied with the current set up.
Options for “family friendly” activities also include the Edmonton city zoo, the ever-popular water park here in St. Albert, picnics in our gorgeous parks, the outdoor swimming pool, walks along the trail system, all of which are outdoor activities and potentially carry some risk of exposure to allergens and heat exhaustion. Hopefully, common sense prevails when one partakes in any of these activities with their children.
If you are going to patronize public places and your son has fatal nut allergies, you should, as you mentioned, have a “vigilant eye” concerning any circumstances in which food is involved. It is a parent’s fundamental responsibility to watch their young children attentively at all times, no matter what the status of their child’s health.
Although I realize it must be very difficult being the parent of a child with such severe nut allergies, Ms. Paquette, I suggest you invest your energy in a more worthwhile cause rather than trying to change what has become known as “A St. Albert tradition.” This is an activity in which delighted patrons can mingle with others after spending a long winter indoors, perhaps enjoy free samples, and of course support our fellow Albertans by purchasing locally.
M. Fraser, St. Albert
