By Jim Gerwing

Ah, how we love to brag about the beauties of James Bay, the glorious display of spring blossoms, the number of outstanding heritage homes, the natural charm of the seashore, the gradual improvement of commercial properties, and the parliament buildings.

But there are also signs of ugliness, many of which are due to indifference. For example, lawns and yards allowed to run to seed, grasses and weeds growing unchecked in the cracks of sidewalks, flowers and hedges encroaching on sidewalk space. What effort would it take for owners to take a little more pride, a little more concern for beauty?

And the graffiti. There is graffiti and graffiti. I have seen some beautiful displays that improve the looks of derelict walls. But obscenities, aimless scribbling, meaningless spraying are something else indeed. Nothing less than vandalism. I am aware that it would take a monumental effort to erase this stuff and constant attention to keep things clean. Who would do it?

The same goes for posting signs on utility poles. Some of this is likely informative, like lost pets and yard sales. Not all that bad if they are taken down in a timely way before they get ragged and unsightly. The question arises: should folks be allowed to advertise in this way?

I love to walk on South Turner Street, not only in the spring, but all year long. When the cherry trees are in blossom, nothing comes close to it anywhere in the city. Even in winter when bare, these trees have a character all their own. However, dead trees in the spring and summer do not cut it. About half a dozen trees have died in one block alone, and no signs for the past two years of replacements. Not pretty at all.

Of all the ugly things in this city, the worst is the volume of cigarette butts in every gutter, around every public bench, in every parking lot, on every street, on every corner. Why in the world do smokers think the whole world is their ash tray? Drive behind a person smoking. The vast majority flick their ashes out of the window and then the butt, often still lit, out into the street. I have absolutely nothing against smoking if someone chooses to smoke. However, the public should not have to put up with the disgusting behaviour of far too many smokers who don' t care about others.

No one would welcome a busy-body gang of "Keep James Bay Beautiful" going around harassing the citizenry. James Bay dwellers should want to keep this oasis beautiful. If people would keep their eyes open around their own blocks, notice the ugliness, and do a little each day, it might make a difference. At least in some places.

Or how about an annual "Clean Up James Bay" campaign? Anyone want to volunteer? Like the James Bay Neighbourhood Association? I am old enough to enjoy shifting the responsibility of carrying out such ideas on someone, anyone, else.

Photos by Jim Gerwing