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Life's little problems
Dear Republic:
Is it your policy to allow writers to use your paper as an elevated position from which to hurl insults at other people while hiding behind the signature "name withheld"? If so, perhaps you should reconsider.
A day doesn't go by when I don't thank my lucky stars, (and the work and commitment of many in years past) for the secure, affordable and friendly community which is my co-op home.
One thing that seems to greatly anger Mr or Ms Name Withheld is that some people (like myself) have the privilege of affordable housing while others (presumably like him or herself) have "to rough it in downtown hotels . . . work out of town . . . know real hardship (and) . . . creepy landlord(s)." In this, his or her anger is justified, but it is sadly and ignorantly misplaced.
Of course living in co-ops is not always idyllic. We are talking about solving problems and living together with other humans here. However, the biggest "problem" with housing co-ops is simply that there are not enough of them.
- Laura Lamb, Vancouver
Privacy alert
Dear Republic:
Given the recent debate over privacy issues concerning American companies holding information on Canadian citizens, this action seems significant.
CIBC Visa sent a notice with this month's bill, informing cardholders of "some changes" to their agreement. This is a fairly regular occurrence, and the changes are generally basic wording, or regarding interest rates.
However, this time, under Privacy Issues they provide a definition of Service Provider (handlers of rewards programs, etc) which is being added to the agreement.
Then, four paragraphs in, they inform the cardholder, if the Service Provider is located in the United States, information pertaining to the account will essentially be available to the United States governments, courts or law enforcement and regulatory agencies.
They further state in the next paragraph of this slip of 3" x 6" folded paper, monotonely printed in black & white, which constitutes prior written notice, that receipt of this slip constitutes consent by the cardholder to the above mentioned.
It is a major change which has been disguised as a minor one. CIBC cannot be unaware of the current debate over these matters. I for one will be reconsidering using a CIBC Visa card.
- Jennifer Brooks, Vancouver BC
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