Editor:
Like many Canadians, I have been impacted by Jack Layton.
Can't say that I have agreed with all of his policies or even joined the NDP. My connection with Jack dates back to the early 1980s when I lived in Toronto and Jack was a city councillor.
While cycling on the way home from work one day, my front tire got caught in a sewer grate. I was catapulted over the front of my bicycle onto the road. Even before I made my case before small claims court, I received a phone call from Jack Layton, introducing himself and saying that he was a member of the City Cycling Committee.
He was very kind in offering his assistance in any way possible.
Well, the lawyer for the City of Toronto came on the scene and the case grew in complexity.
Even though I lost the case as it was deemed there would be too great a financial liability for the City, it is encouraging to see that across most of Canada there are now sewer grates which no longer gobble up bicycle wheels.
It meant a lot that Jack would take the time to be in touch with me to see how I was doing after my accident.
It speaks to me of the kind of class act that Jack represents.
We will miss you Jack. May your life encourage other Canadians to step up, become involved, show a bit of compassion, and help make Canada a better place.
Tom Balke
