Remembering Gary Karr: A Tribute to a Musical Icon

Double bassist Gary Karr, renowned as one of the greatest double bass players in the world, passed away on July 16, 2025, at the age of 83. His contributions to music, marked by exceptional talent and deep humanity, have left an indelible mark on the world of classical music.

Reflections on Karr’s Legacy

The Victoria Conservatory of Music announced Karr’s death with profound sadness, highlighting his influence on countless musicians and students. Karr was not only celebrated for his technical mastery but also for his warm personality. His performances, often described as transcendent, brought joy to audiences around the globe.

One admirer, Ian Cameron from Brentwood Bay, shared a personal memory of playing a duet with Karr. He described it as one of the happiest moments of his musical career, illustrating the deep connections Karr fostered through music.

As tributes pour in, it is clear that Karr’s absence will be felt not just in Victoria but internationally. His work extended beyond performance; he was also a passionate advocate for music education, inspiring future generations to embrace the art of music.

Controversy Surrounding Drug Policy in British Columbia

An ongoing debate in British Columbia highlights the importance of expert involvement in health policy decisions, particularly regarding the funding of rare disease treatments. Concerns were raised about the potential conflicts of interest among researchers connected to pharmaceutical companies. In a letter to the Times Colonist, David Hansen criticized the push to reinstate funding for Brineura, a drug for Batten Disease, arguing that the decision-making should remain with experts rather than politicians who lack the necessary understanding of drug efficacy.

Hansen contended that the B.C. government should not interfere with the work of the Expensive Drugs for Rare Diseases Committee, emphasizing that their expertise is vital in making informed decisions about such costly treatments. His opinion reflects a growing sentiment that health policy should prioritize scientific evidence over political pressure.

In a related matter, Tom Hughes from Kamloops proposed that expanding ferry services between the mainland and Vancouver Island could alleviate transportation issues. He suggested that operating ferries during nighttime hours would provide more flexibility for travelers, potentially reducing the strain on daytime services.

Hughes argued that the current scheduling by B.C. Ferries is too rigid and does not accommodate spontaneous travel. He proposed a model where private sector operators could utilize the terminals at night, thus increasing capacity and efficiency.

Another letter addressed road safety, highlighting the need for improved adherence to traffic regulations. George Jackson pointed out that many road users fail to stop fully at stop signs, which poses significant dangers. He emphasized the necessity of enforcing traffic laws and suggested that all road users should possess a working knowledge of road rules to enhance safety for everyone.

In a similar vein, Al Niezen discussed the introduction of minimum passing distances for vehicles overtaking cyclists. The revised Motor Vehicle Act, effective from June 2024, mandates a one-metre distance for vehicles traveling under 50 km/h and one and a half metres for those exceeding that speed. Niezen expressed hope that appropriate signage would soon be installed to remind drivers of these new regulations.

Lastly, William Kral urged the Victoria City Council to pay attention to public feedback, as expressed through letters to the editor. He criticized the council for seemingly ignoring constituents’ concerns, calling for greater responsiveness to the community’s needs.

As the community reflects on its challenges and triumphs, the loss of Gary Karr serves as a poignant reminder of the power of art and expertise in bringing people together and influencing positive change.