John Stuart Mill wrote that “... security of person and property, and equal justice between individuals, are the first needs of society, and the primary ends of government.” The extent to which modern governments have over-reached their intended roles is exemplified by the Canadian government’s decision to “match” Canadians’ donations to Pakistani flood relief dollar-for -dollar.

We’ve all been frustrated at being caught at the Park gates in a long line-up of people wanting to travel to Jasper. To its credit, Parks is currently working on improving flow-through at the gates, and hopes to decrease wait times by as much as 30 percent.

In last week’s online poll, we asked if there should be a locals-only lane at the Park gates. 60 percent of respondents were in favour of this idea; the relatively large number of respondents suggests that the idea of specially-designated lanes deserves more discussion. 

The contribution Willi Pfisterer has made to mountain life and safety in the Canadian Rockies is in a word, remarkable. Credited with more than 700 rescues during four decades of work, Pfisterer’s death at 83 years of age is a time for mourning, but also recognition for pioneering methods that have saved many.

Those plucked off of mountains or out of backcountry valleys owe Pfisterer a debt of gratitude.