Page 2 Cassiar:Courier November 1987 -' Opposition Leader . MIKE "a HARCOURT - SE SOOOOCOCOCOCOCOOCOCCCOCOOOCOCOCO COO iI i “eee eee not in a castle somewhere in Richmond that I’m suspic- ious of the Premier’s latest kingly ‘‘vision’’ for British Columbia. In late September Mr. Vander Zalm announced his plan for decentralizing the provincial government and carving up the province into eight separate economic areas. In effect, he wants to create eight new principalities each to have its very own reigning Cabinet minister. Supposedly, Mr. Vander Zalm’s decentralization will lead to efficiency and better use of our province’s financial resources, which will allow local areas to create new jobs. Whether the average B.C. family will benefit one can only hope, but clearly one group of British Columbians will get new jobs out of the Premier’s an- nouncement -- Social Credit MLAs. There’ll be eight new “Ministers of State’ and eight new Parliamentary Sec- retaries for the regions, with salaries to match the new titles. They'll each have their own little fiefdom to ad- minister in this new United States of British Columbia. I can see it now: the King of Kootenay, the Sheik of Shuswap, the Commissar of Cariboo, the Poobah of Peace River and the Viscount of Vancouver Island. Decentralization in itself is a good idea. I be- lieve strongly that economic growth can come for us all from the participation of local and regional governments in decision-making. But as has often been the case when Perhaps it’s because I live in normal housing and the Premier floats a new policy, we’ré left to wait and wonder exactly what he has in mind. To call Mr. Vander Zalm’s latest idea vague is to label it with the same criticism he’s earned for most of plans. Just what is he promising and how will it be done? Even his staff and Cabinet have been left in the dark. I think it’s safe to say that the premier favours decentralization as long as he and his ever-expanding office ultimately pull the strings. This isn’t the decentral- ization I believe in. There is only one B.C., and it’s Nelson, and Nanaimo, and Prince George, and Victoria, and Kamloops, and Vancouver and every single little town and community -- not a United States of B.C., with Bill Vander Zalm as President, but a United B.C., with fair treatment and equal access for everyone and high province-wide standards for services such as education and health. New Democrats are working for real decentrali- zation, not insertion of yet another layer of government bureaucracy between duly elected municipal representa- tives and the provincial government. We’re committed to the type of power sharing that will give local government both the authority and access to resources to get the job done. Our decentralization plans are designed to give real economic control and real dollars to local govern- ments, leading to something we believe is vital: “stability”. Giving local communities the resources to put into place those facilities that will best make them an attractive economic area -- resources that will, for example, put their education and health problems in solid shape. Will Mr. Vander Zalm’s decentralization accomplish this? Or will we simply see the creation of another level of bureaucracy with more patronage jobs for friends of the government? Given Mr. Vander Zalm’s track record, and until he fill us in with more information, I believe I’m justified in being skeptical about how much real power will flow from the Vander Zalm kingdom’s sketchy decentralization plans. KEMPF SAYSIT FOR US TOO Editors Note: Jack L. Kempf, M.L.A. (Omineca), has forwared the following regarding the condition of most gravel roads in the north. These conditions also apply to Cassiar area roads. A traveller of Highway 37 re- cently made the comment, “I haven’t seen the highway this bad in the last 10 years. There’s potholes you can lose your car in, gumbo that sucks you off the road and gravel that hasn’t seen a grader in weeks!” On a recent tour of my constituency, and in par- ticular a number of areas off the beaten track, 1 was appalled to note the conditions of most of the gravel roads. In some cases it was apparent that no maintenance had been done for months, and surfaces have deteriorated to a disgraceful level. This, as a rural member from an area rich in resources which result in many tax dollars flowing into the provincial treasury, I find absolutely un- acceptable. TINA WAVED AT ME! The concert was fantastic! Seated at the Pacific Coliseum on the P.N.E. grounds in Vancouver anticipa- ting the arrival on stage of Tina Turner was exhilarating! The mood was infectous as people from all walks of life and in every age category gathered to be entertained by one of the world’s best known female entertainers. She arrived singing “Respect” and the audience went wild. For one and one half hours this little woman who is almost a half century old, sang, danced, talked, joked and in general put on the most professional show | have ever seen. She wooed, challenged and excited her audience. She captured them and it showed. The applause was thunderous, the lighters blinked throughout the coliseum and the demand for an encore was met with appreciation and enthusiasm from Ms. Turner. I’ve never thought much about. becoming a group- ie, but at the end of her concert she had captured me. I found myself standing up from my seat and waving madly at her. You know what - she walked right over to the end of the stage, moved into the corner and waved geht pals AIDS - FACT I NOT FICTION % There is no reason that this community would » be exempt from this virus. Don’t bury your ) head in the sand and say “‘It couldn’t happen » here.” Of course it will happen here so pro- 4 tect yourself. Men should always use a con- % dom and women, ‘the pill’ does not protect X you. 2 This is nota pristinely pure community. You ’ cannot say, “Oh, she’s a good girl!’’ YOU § DON'T KNOW! Lifestyles will change, but * not fast enough. Don’t. wait. This disease is a killer! A Concerned Citizen e Ae mCCHPHER Dieta t Not only are we the forgotten people with respect to the upgrading and maintenance of main arteries such as Highway 16, but we receive virtually nothing in the way of secondary road maintenance. Rural residents, as you are aware, require more expensive vehicles and are re- quired to drive many hundreds of miles to reach service centres. To have to travel over the kinds of roads which I experienced in the past three weeks, pounding those vehicles into the ground, is simply not good enough. I fully understand your dilemma with regard to overruns on the Coquihalla running into the hundreds of millions, but cannot accept that as a reason to cut back on maintenance dollars in the north. Northeners get precious little enough back for their hard earned tax dollars, and at the very least should be able to expect to drive on public roads which are maintained in safe con- dition. Those roads viewed first hand by myself recent- ly, are not in safe condition. HAVE A SAFE AND FUN HALLOWE'EN DRIVE CAREFULLY WEA] RICE OY he Hey Eee Neh hs aha aaa HED BICE COOK ' Ottawa Viewpoint Jim Fulton MP WORKERS EARN LESS UNDER MULRONEY Two recent reports from Ottawa deserve special attention. They may state the obvious...our paycheques are getting smaller under Brian Mulroney...but they are interesting because they are the federal government’s own reports. A Statistics Canada survey of income and inflation shows clearly that the average pay for workers is drop- ping. In the 1970’s the big threat to our economic pros- perity was inflation. Inflation meant that every gain in income for the Canadian family was immediately eaten up by price increases. Our then Prime Minister, Pierre Trudeau, promised to wrestle the beast to the ground. Well its now the 1980’s and what has happened? Canadian workers are still losing ground to infla- tion. The average weekly pay packet has shrunk every year in the last ten, except for two off years. And 1987 will be no different. At year end, the average wage will fall another 2.2 percent. The inflation rate is not as high as it used to be, but Canadian workers are still unable to keep pace with the cost of living. If anything, the Stats Canada report under- estimates the erosion in income. It does not take into account the jiggery-pokery being played with our tax system by Ottawa. Before 1985, a worker was taxed only on wage gains over and above the annual rate of inflation. No more, thanks to the Mulroney government. This brings us to our second item: The Conserva- tives new ‘tax reform’ proposal that is supposed to spell relief. Not so, according to a recent report from the Economic Council of Canada, a federally funded think tank rarely noted for criticising the hand that feeds it. According to the Council, many Canadians will immediately pay more, not less, under Mulroney’s new tax changes. These increases would go hand in hand with a new national sales tax. Hidden from view, this sales tax will nevertheless gnaw away at out pocketbooks and produce a- paperwork nightmare for small business. A tax on food would hit directly on the poorest in our com- - munities. In three years under Mulroney, the national debt has grown by $100 million, our taxes have more than doubled, and the federal government spends $18 billion more than in 1984. Unwilling to close billions of dollars worth of tax loopholes available only to large corporations, the Mulroney government has shifted the burden onto the shoulders of working families. Mulroney’s tax reform changes, while promising simplicity, fairness and relief, will actually deliver more hardship. If there is a lesson in the Stats Canada and Economic Council reports it is this: ravaged by Tory tax increases, unable to keep pace with inflation, low and middle income Canadians can only pay so much.. It is time that we had a tax system that puts an end to big corporate loopholes and offers fairness to workers and sma HALLOWE’EN THOUGHTS by Lorraine Lanteigne You might not believe in goblins, ghosts or witch- es. Vampires are figments, and monsters are only in night- mares. You are probably more afraid of the living than the dead - and spells and magic are for the over dramatic. That’s fine - you will live a “safe” life because not believing in something is a lot easier to handle. Then it is easy to say it doesn’t exist! Hallowe’en as celebrated in North America is an illusion - a time when we reflect on the darker side of the earth’s nature. The creatures that arrive on your doorstep are reflected characters - characters that mean something to the “Trick-Or-Treaters” or party attender! I’ve often thought it niay be interesting to look behind the mask or the make-up and inquire as to the rea- son behind the outfit. answers. I’m looking forward to Hallowe’en. I'll be at home with the vampires, ghosts, goblins and most im- portantly witches. They exist inside my imagination all of the time. They are fun - they scare me, and most im- portant of all, I think they just might scare you! DO YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EARLY CASSION LIONESS BAZAAR SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21st If your wish to rent a table Contact Rita Brown - 778-7216 I might get some interesting ———————— i _CASSIAR © Bits & Pieces We've heard of Inglis, Kenmore and C.G.E. appliances, but Mary Callow has her own exclusive brand - JIM! The Minnesota Twins would like to thank Patrick for all his support! There’s rumours of a bear hanging out at Chain Lakes, You'll recognize it if you see it - this bear wears an orange jacket! When does a “cot” become a “crib”? According to Kinky and Patrick, when you are in Scotland! Has Sherry been working in the lounge too long? She was spotted talking to a cupboard recently. Funny thing was, the cupboard was talking back! Why is Violet’s favorite number SEVEN? Richard and Garry should go and int in re freeka”’. On October 2,1987, Pat Harper presented Irene Marques with a $100 gift certificate as winner of the Clothes Closet Grand Opening Draw. Pat would like to thank ali who participated in making the opening a success. We hear the “Blues” have a standing order for ‘Pucks by Sherry”. Some people will do anything to get into the Fireman’s Ball for free, but moving back to Cassiar, Derek? Or is it that you missed Tim so much? _ Denise bought enough cheese and meat for her Tupper- ware Party, that she also had to buy enough Tupperware to store the leftovers! We are pleased to hear Don Taylor is recovering well from his recent surgery. We look forward to seeing him back in Cassiar soon. Earth to Nancy! Where are you? We hear J.P.’s new vehicle can do 130 miles an hour, Better keep you cat indoors! Overheard Rob Watts and Evelyn Frenette discussing locked doors in the bunkhouse. Is there a story here that you would like to share? Congratulations to Roland Rudkowsky and Mary Molan who recently represented Cassiar Secondary at a confer- ence at U.B.C. Hope to get a summary for the next issue. Steve McKenna is extremely security conscience, So much so, that he keeps his keys in a locked vehicle! Leslie thinks the company should change the color of their trucks, Apparently when the sun shines on them, the trucks disappear into thin air! We understand that a visit from John to the Penno resi- dence in Kelowna caused a stir. Seems Adolf couldn't believe that he almost got “beaten” on the golf course by his guest - then it seems this same John is planning to advertize Penno’s home as an excellent Bed and Break- fast business. How does Marie feel about this develop- ment? Speaking of the Okanagan - there is a fine Italian gentle- man living in Westbank who makes the most enjoyable wine. A big thank you from Lorraine to the Compers for their excellent hospitality! and to Vito for the wine! Robert Duri spent his summer as a “Scarecrow,’’ We've heard that no-birds-entered-the orchard! -. =~ a) ge ee Creek Column vy Lorraine Lanteigne “J like what Mikie Likes’ was a famous punch line around Erickson a few years ago. This referred to our famous Mike Botel and to one of his more “aus- picious’’ escapades. Mike Botel was one of the ‘“‘wild young northern boys” when I first met him over three years ago. He’d come to Erickson as a teenager, got a job and continued working, partying and maturing in this camp in the mountains of Northern B.C. His sense of humour, his swagger and the tok of him on a Sunday morning in “the kitchen” inspired many a smile, glance, or good natured teasing. He loved fast bikes, fast skidoos, fast living (to a point) for he also shared his thoughts and feelings in a conversation. was truly interested in other people, was tair and really likeable. He is going to be missed at Erickson Gold, Like so many of our “Old Timers” it has come time to move on. Reminds me of the Lee Marvin song “I Was Born Under A Wanderin’ Star”, from Paint Your Wagon. A going away party was held at the home of Tom and Lois McGrail. Over sixty people turned out to say farewell to a good friend, and according to the details, I understand that Mike was sent off in the “Best of Erickson tradition!” Good luck to you, Mike - we hope to see you again! A sadness in writing a column such as this is the good-byes that should be said. I’ve stated before that mining is a transient business and because of this one be- comes a little steeled to the good-byes - but it doesn’t -make them easy. To all of you who have left over the past couple of months, those of us who stay behind wish you well. May the good things about Erickson Gold be THANK YOU The Cassiar Lions Club extends a sincere thank you to all area residents who contributed so generously to the recent C.N.I.B. drive. Also our special appre- ciation to Albert and Bruno for allowing me to use the facilities of the store. Francis Sherlock LORDY! LORDY! PETER IS FORTY! Even though Peter is nearly “over the hill’ - he stili enjoyed this very “interesting” birthday present. Happy Birthday, Mr. J. - from your FRIENDS! We don’t know for sure how much Patrick paid for his tickets to the Twins game; but rumour has it not as much as Alun paid for his football! There’s a miner at Erickson who insists there’s a marten in the area who likes to play “‘bail’’! Is there a reason why Ken, no matter what the weather, drives Leslie’s car with the windows open? Or does he just like to think that he’s back in Penticton? URCHINS! by Lorraine Lanteigne The restaurant is.open! Qualicum Beach’s newest eating establishment, Urchins , owned and operated by Denyse Tavener, Claire Redmond and Frank Buckley is now serving the public. Located on the Island Highway, Urchins serves the best in Canadian and Chinese cuisine. Full picture win- dows face the sea, a view to inspire any diner, and the at- mosphere in the restaurant is friendly, comfortable and lends itself to a “touch of class” that makes dining at Urchins a pleasure, My husband John and I enjoyed our meal (sauteed prawns as an appetizer and veal as the main course) very much. The restaurant had only been open a week when we arrived for our visit, but it was evident that these ex- Cassiarites were doing a good business, Success to them, and I can guarantee that if you are passing rouet OUEN yeu W cuoy your! meal at es: “sUrchins! tee Be * what ou u remember best! Cassiar: PLS AAN ber eae (sits 3re7 - new bride to Adil (Shon is in our survey department). Adil and Zareen were married on the 20th of September in Vancouver, and live ‘‘on the road to Cassiar.’? Zareen is very interested in pre-school early childhood development and is educated in those areas. So to you mothers of pre- schoolers at Erickson, here’s a resource person for you! Camp life is flowing along. Seems to be lots of rumours floating around about what is, who is, or did you know? That’s part of small community life, and some ad- vice - if you hear something about yourself, enjoy it, at least you are not being ignored. Speaking of rumours, welcome brother Elwood Anderson, it is a pleasure having a family member “‘in the North”. Elwood is one of the new shifters, and was em- ployed at Erickson previously. His poise, charm and good nature create a very nice man - a friend, It’s great - no snow in camp yet. I seem to recall asking the “Goddess of the Weather” for a late winter, (along with other things she hasn’t come through with!) maybe this will happen! John and I enjoyed a two week trip away. Visited the girls from the Vancouver Office - did lunch with them at the Seven Seas Restaurant. Very pleasant and intelli- gent women. Stopped in at Huldra to see Al Beaton and he gave us a very informative tour. A few ex-Erickson faces working there: Bob Rolfe, Doug McConnery, Bob Best, all looking fine and doing well! Our Rec Centre is almost complete. We’ve a great new pool table and I can’t wait to “play the game”. I Jefinitely think Ron and Bonnie should give POOL LESSONS! More on the Rec Centre in next month’s Courier! I can’t sign off without saying ‘Hi’? to Derek Walker. Cassiar’s loss is definately our gain! Tim, Derek and Gordie along with the other staff in the kitchen create very good cuisine at Erickson - we’re fortunate! Good- bye Willie Harms - you'll be missed. Willie was second cook at Erickson for two years and his hard work and efficiency are legendary! Well, time to end this month’s columm. Winter is coming. Time marches on. People come. People go. Memories are e made - all at Erickson Gold! — aS THANK YOU ALL CONTRIBUTORS The deadline for the December issue of the Courier will be November 18th, for written submissions. For your Christmas advertisement, November 13th would be preferable. YOUR COURIER STAFF Leslie Johnston Melanie Wolfe Pauline Woodrow Lorraine Lanteigne SUBSCRIPTIONS $10.00 per year CASSIAR COURIER Box 100 Cassiar, B.C. V0C1E0 DON’T BE THE CULPRIT ON YOUR STREET To assist in trouble free snow clearing opera- tions, the Surface Department requests your usual cooperation in complying with the following pro- cedure. Road signs informing residents of intended areas of snow clearing will be displayed one day § prior to the commencement of such snow clearing. If any vehicles are parked in the streets on the in- tended day snow clearing is to commence. NO work will be attempted on these areas until all vehicles are removed. I ee —ee—e—e—eEEeEeeEeee—e