Actions louder than words

To the editor,
As the son of Senator Lynn Beyak, a taxpayer, and business owner in Fort Frances, I was initially surprised to see the Senate Ethics Officer’s inquiry mentioned in the municipal council meeting on March 25 by Councillor Doug Judson. 
Upon further reflection, however, it became clear to me why Mr. Judson would now, at this time, feel so compelled to raise the Senator’s controversy that has been going on for over two years. 
Everyone who knows Doug, as I do, knows he has high political ambitions. 
Given these aspirations and his desire to elevate his public profile, I fear that Doug is attempting to sew discord in our community and advance his own political agenda instead of working to understand the views and experiences of those who see things differently than he does.
Political grandstanding at a local council meeting is not helpful to the community and only poisons the atmosphere. Taking these types of shots at the Senator may serve to raise Doug’s political profile in our area and elsewhere, but this behaviour is very harmful to a reasonable discussion of the issues.
Senator Beyak, along with my late father, Tony, have shown their love and respect for this community by devoting years of their lives volunteering and contributing to the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce, the local school board, people with addictions, and many other things. 
Doug Judson’s comments as a councillor for the Town of Fort Frances are both disrespectful and misplaced. 
Fortunately, actions speak louder than words. The good deeds, kindness, and unselfishness shown by both my parents cannot be diminished by one self-serving and ill-informed town councillor.
Sincerely,
Nick Beyak