GOVERNMENT CANCELS PLAN FOR BRIDGE ON THE UPPER BABINE RIVER Plans have been cancelled for construction of a bridge on the upper Babine River in northwest British Columbia, Forests Minister Dave Parker and Environment Minister Bruce Strachan have announced. The bridge was to have provided access to timber stands north and east of the river. Instead, the British Columbia Forest Service’s (BCFS) Nilkitkwa/Horetzky road will be upgraded this summer to provide access to timber in the Bulkley timber supply area east of the Babine, Parker said. “This decision is the result of a special approval planning study undertaken by the two ministries in recognition of special fishery values of the Babine River,” the minister said. Strachan said the upper Babine River is import- ant for the trophy steelhead fishery and there were major concerns about the impact the proposed bridge might have on that fishery. i In making the announcement Parker noted that the Shedin Bridge, at the Babine’s ower end, has been approved and construction will commence shortly. “The Shedin Bridge is critical for access to timber stands and ~ Ottawa 4 es Viewpoint Jim Fulton MP APPOINT WOMEN TO SENIOR POSTS Election promises often come back to haunt politicians. One such promise is Brian Mulroney’s pledge to double the percentage of women appointments. Through orders-in-council, the federal cabinet has the power to appoint whoever it likes to thousands of prestigious and often lucrative positions on hundreds of government agencies and tribunals. The directors of the Canadian National Railway, citizenship judges, members of the National Parole Board and local Ports Corporations have one thing in common -- all are order-in-council appointments. When Pierre Trudeau and John Turner were in‘ * power, only fifteen percent of all federal appointments were women. . This percentage has risen somewhat, but falls short of the thirty percent promised by Mr. Mulroney during the last federal election. MINISTRY OF FORESTS HON. DAVE PARKER, MINISTER MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT ._~ HON. BRUCE STRACHAN, MINISTER er its impact on recreational and fisheries values in the Babine will be minimal,” he said. Parker said planning for the Gail bridge, mid-way down the Babine, will be undertaken using the BCFS’s local resource-use planning process. Strachan said a special fishery policy for the Bab- ine River -- similar to that developed for the Dean River in the mid-coast area in 1987 -- will be in place for the 1989 fishing season. To maintain a high-quality angling experience on the river in a wilderness setting, the policy calls for a limit . on the number of guide operations and anglers on the river, Strachan said. He said the environment and forests ministries will extend the local resource-use planning process to develop an integrated resource-use plan for the Babine drainage area. Meanwhile, the BCFS has closed the recently con- structed road to the proposed upper Babine River bridge to all motorized recreational vehicles, Parker said. “Reseeding the right-of-way will be addressed in the local resource-use plan for the Babine drainage area,” the minister said. Take for instance the fifteen directors of the Ports Canada board in Ottawa: all are men and all were appointed by Mr. Mulroney. There is still only one woman on the board of Air Canada, three on the Bank of Canada, and two on Canadian National. A count of the 3,850 order-in-council appoint- ments by the Mulroney Cabinet reveals that only twenty- three percent are women, and that includes the six maids appointed to the prime minister’s residence in 1984. Not only has the level of appointments not been doubled, women are by and large ignored when the full time, well paying, and powerful positions are filled. Order-in-council appointments, of course, are only an indicator of whether the government is making “progress on equality and fairness. Women still make less than their male counterparts, are more likely to live below the poverty line, and work in dead-end jobs. Order-in-council appointments (which frankly deserve more public scrutiny) are not a solution to the problems of the majority. Nevertheless, the government’s record on appoint- ing women to senior public positions falls far short of its election pledge. Though Mr. Mulroney boasts that his promise has been kept, as we have witnessed so often in the past, the Prime Minister’s performance is a disappointment. , There has been no major initiative from the government on behalf of women. Instead of broken promises, we deserve equality and fairness from Ottawa. Opposition Leader MIKE HARCOURT At my party’s recent three-day caucus meeting in Penticton, I announced new responsibilities and challenges for my colleagues to meet in their roles as Opposition critics. The areas are many - everything from regional development to health, environment to education, international business to the status of wo- men. The changes to our critic list will provide caucus members with an even broader range of experience and better parallel existing government ministries. Our new MLAs are moving into key policy areas that will better prepare them for a New Democrat gov- ernment in the future. At the same time, we’re placing some of our more experienced MLAs in the additional role of watch- dog, to scrutinize and speak out against the Socred’s ongoing pork barrel politics. 21,’ 417 Phis*shuffle also-points+to- sothe of the ‘areasy and my colleagues Want-fodnieontrate-on going iS the? next general election. Areas such as women’s equality, housing needs, and fair taxation - all of which the Soc- red government continues to ignore - will be among the issues we'll be focussing on over the next two years. My colleagues have their work cut out for them with their new critic responsibilities, as well as with their work on behalf of constituents in their riding. And over the course of the next several months they will be trav- elling across the province to meet and talk with British Columbians on the issues concerning you and your family. We know many of those concerns have to do with the leadership and- policies of the Social Credit government. Time after time the Socreds continue to betray the public trust, and hatch schemes that hurt British Columbians. Schemes like the sell-off of our highways maintenance operations where government documents indicate that, in the South Vancouver Island region alone, service will be reduced by about 40 per cent under private operators, while the cost to taxpayers will go up by $11 million over the next three years. And schemes like the sell-off of our public lands, which has been grossly mismanaged and has only benefitted the Socreds’ wealthy friends and big business. As leader of the Opposition, I will be ensuring that New Democrats carry through on our mandate to ‘serve the interests of ALL British Columbians fairly. And we will be working harder than ever to replace the Socreds? radi ici | : GM eee gtiah fare foghe ony LLL NEA SS A BS ooh AN OPINION Omineca Update JACK. J. KEMPF M.L.A. FOR OMINECA The decision by fifty-two log haulers in Golden to seek membership in the 1.W.A. is, in my estimation, simply the tip of the iceberg. Because of the turmoil and uncertainty in the forest industry today, entrepreneurs who have traditionally shied away from unionization are feverishly seeking help to stay alive. Industry and government will rue the day this began, but they have absolutely no one to blame but themselves. Greed inevitably leads to disaster. The greed of many of the players in British Columbia’s forest in- dustry, which has been instrumental in leading the indus- try to its present state, is, quite frankly, immoral. The failure of government to act responsibly to return control of the resource to British Columbians and ensure payment for our fair share of the resource, is unacceptable. Inept tinkering and smoke screen politics have only worsened the situation. The new stumpage appraisal system and Small Business program have tightened the grasp of the multi-nationals on our resource. The log haulers, turning from their traditional roles as entrepreneurs to unioniza- tion, are certainly examples of this. I don’t like it, nor do I agree that it should come to this. But I can certainly see their point. To whom can they turn? It could be a miracle in disguise though. If government can’t ensure our citizens fair return from their resources, and haulers are denied fair treatment, then perhaps through unionization the forcing of proper pay- ment contracts will in a small way bring some justice to the system. I can be reached by phoning 387-3038 days, 384-9285 evenings, or by writing c/o Parliament Buil- dings, Victoria, B.C. V8V 1X4. Support the Democratic Process. Keep in touch with your M.L.A. LARRY GUNO, M.L.A. (Atlin) SOCRED INDIFFERENCE TO NORTH STYMIES ECONOMIC GROWTH Victoria -- New Democrat MLA Larry Guno says a Socred “no show” at a recent major northern mine opening demonstrates the government’s continued indifference to the communities and local economies of the North. Guno, his party’s mining critic, was referring the recent opening of Skyline Exploration Resources Ltd., a major gold, silver and copper mine on Johnny Mountain, near the Panhandle border and in the riding of Atlin. “The fact that not a single Social Credit minister or a government official bothered to show up or even send a message of congratulation is indicative of the government’s total lack of support for any new economic initiatives in the North,” said Guno. “Y’m extremely concerned about the signal the government is sending to investors,” said Guno (Atlin), who added that a number of American government officials were on hand, including the Alaskan senator. _ “The clear message is that the Northwest is not an area of concern to the Socreds. The result is high unemployment, and the untapping of great resources in one of the most mineral-rich areas in the country.” Guno said it’s time the Socreds make every effort possible to encourage developments like Skyline, which has already created 108 jobs. He cited forestry, mining and recreation as areas with the greatest potential in the North. “New Democrats will continue to press the govern- ment to provide the appropriate infrastructure~roads, power sources and tourism facilities - to accommodate growth in these areas and provide stable employment. “Northern British Columbians have every right to the same economic opportunities enjoyed by those who live elsewhere in the province. “If the government is serious about strengthening regional economic development, it should begin im- mediately to encourage investment and the creation of new industries,”’ er) us ot one's Contact: Larry, GunosMbAj 387-6094" wii sibaed Mp2 Vat) 2242 21 9uO 219s | — ie eS a RECENT GRADUATES ALEXIA JONES Ms. Jones attended Cassiar Elementary’ School from grade one to seven. She has been a student at Crofton House School since grade eight. She recently graduated from grade twelve. Ms. Jones will be attending the Univ- ersity of Waterloo in Ontario. She plans to study Business Administration and Languages. ANNE PEWSEY Ms. Pewsey graduated recently from Crofton House School. She was a student at Cassiar Elementary from Kindergarten to Grade Seven. Ms. Pewsey will pursue her studies at the post secondary level majoring in Political Science. EDO CARIN A student in Cassiar from kindergarten to Giade Eight, and returning in Grade Ten, Mr. Carin graduated from North Delta Senior Secondary School recently. He plans to attend Douglas College where he will study Business Computors. Dease Lake Residents Retire Dave and Beaulah Frazier, residents of Dease Lake’ for the past 16 years, are retiring and will be leaving by the end of September. : The couple, originally from Waterton Lakes, Al- ~ berta, had become interested in the Telegraph Creek and Dease Lake area through a friend who had spent some time there. After two summer holidays to do some looking around, they decided that this was where they wanted to be. Dave recalls the move here in 1972. They came by way of Watson Lake as the south road was under con- struction and not open. That year this area experienced the heaviest melt ever, forcing them to camp at Twin Lakes for 8 days, until the roads became passable. After building a home at Dease Lake, Dave and son Mike worked on construction projects along the highway. These included a number of construction camps for B.C. Rail, the log store and residence at Iskut, and the bridge abutments on the Stikine. Dave remembers crossing the Stikine ferry one time and asking the operator how many crossings he had made in a week. The answer was eleven. _ Beaulah, who had been a very active horsewoman on the rodeo circuit in southern Alberta, claims she fell into the jade business by accident. Shortly after arriving in Dease, the Fraziers met a prospector who had been working the Dease area. According to Beaulah, he had been hauling a ton or so of jade around in his van for some time, trying to figure out what to do with it. One day he announced that he was unloading it in her yard, and she could do what she wanted. Finding herself a small saw, she began cutting jade, and soon found a ready market for it. That was the beginning of “Beaulah’s ’ Jade”’, a business that has grown over the past 15 years. She had a special thanks for the people of Cassiar, who have been very supportive and loyal (her best customers) during thei years in business. Prospecting activity began picking up and Dave went into the aviation fuel business, and then found him- self more and more involved in community affairs. He served as coroner for the community and also as magis- trate, holding court in their home. He served on com- mittees and organizations, and at one time was active in politics. He recalls being thrown out of a committee meeting for being too vocal. “Back in those days, we had to fight for every damn thing we ever got from the gov- ernment,” Dave recalled. “Everyone knew everyone and we all helped one another.” Talking to friends of the Fraziers, one gets the feeling that they were indeed fighters, that they were the kind of people that built this country, that they are the pioneers of their generation. Dave and Beaulah intend to sell their interests in Dease Lake, buy a motor home, and do some traveling. Dave admits that it will be scary not having a permanent ‘home..- It probably. will: be, ‘but aftér-talking to the Fra- ziers, one is sure they can handle it. s On Sunday September 18, Cassiar celebrated its Terry Fox run. Sixty participants entered the nine kilo- metre run. First runner in was Ted Beck, with a time of © forty minutes. Organizers contacted stated that they were happy with the turnout and that most people finished the required distance. There are no final figures on monies raised as a num- ber of participants have yet to turn in their sponsor cards. IN MEMORY OF DON TAYLOR ! would like to extend my sincere thanks to Cassiar Mining Corporation, the staff at Cassiar Hos- pital and all of Don’s friends who were there when they were needed. It is indeed fitting that: Don should be at rest with the people he had grown to love over the many years he had lived here. His presence will be sorely missed by all. Bernard H. Major, President Major Security Inc. CASSIAR Bits & Pieces I saw Scott Lecky of the B.C. Lions this summer, and he wanted me to say “Hi” to everyone in Cassiar for ‘him. He was up here last spring for the Substance Abuse Program put on by the B.C. Lionbackers in association with Gerry Gramek and the high school. He really liked it here and wanted to be remembered to everyone he had met. June Evans HM x THANK YGU! THANK YOU! We loved the card! Bernald cried when she opened it, Thank you to all who signed it and donated money. We will frame the card und put the money to good use. We would also like to thank the friends and family who were able tc attend. It wouldn’t have been the same without you! Mr. and Mrs. Scott Smith HM Born to Jud and Sue Overton of Inuvik, North West Territories, a girl, Danille, weighing in at five pounds seven ounces. Date of birth was August 17, 1 988. The baby girl is the first child of the Overtons. Reports are that the mother and baby are doing well, and that Jud is avery proud daddy. TIME TYPIST AND PASTE-UP FERSON. SPEED IS NOT ESSENTIAL; ACCURACY AND SPELL- CONTACT DON CAMPBELL AT THE COURIER OFFICE, 778-7627 OR 778-7897. and carried pink carr ations. Cassiar Courier September/October 1988 Page 3 Terry Fox Run WEDDING BELLS On July 23, 198€ in Danville, Quebec, Bernald Rcrsato and Scott Sicith exchanged wedding vows. Bernald was radiant in her traditional white or- gandy and lace floor length gown. Bernald’s headbard was lovely - enczusted with beads and flowers and at- teched to a simple veil. She carried a small sheaf of ile peach tea roses and baby’s breath. Bernald’s Matron of Honour was Mary Waite who yore an afternoon length sky blue lace and organdy dress The bridesmaids, Chiera Borsato and Tara Komycvtc, wore peach lace and organ- cy dresses and carried peach carnations. Scott wore a charcoal grey tuxede with light grey cummerbund and tie. David Smith, brother to the groom, was best man and the groom’s men were Chris Knowles and Steven Lodge. The rece;-tion was held in Yichmond, Quebec, where all enjoyed 2 well-prepared meal and fun Quebec traditions before dancing the night away. Scott was fortunate to have his parents Shirley < iid Ian, brother David and sisters Martha, Crystal and Jenni- fer, as well as grandparents, #1in*s, uncles and cousins. Many members of Bernald’s family attended: father Kinky Borsato from Cranbrook, sisters Marie Bor- sato from Ottawa, Arlene Komperdo from Edson, Alberta Denise Clark from Cassiar, nieces Chieva Borsato from Sahiacn Arm and Tara Kemperdo from Edson. Other visitors able to attend were Shaun Whalen, Richard Knowles, Luc Prevcst and Dennis Anderson from Cassizr; Mary, J.R. ard Justin Waite from Toronto; Barbara Billingsley and frieiid Paris from Prince Gorge. The weather was perfect, the company fantastic and the province .. . la belle! Rainbow City Meats Opens Rainbow City Meats of Prince Rupert, owned by Porti and Carol Nitti, will open its doors by September 16. Renovations required were extensive, and are now complete. 4 Carol and Porti were married in Prince Rupert on July 13 by the local Justice. The couple looks forward to operating their business, and “‘Dr. Porti” will be on hand: to provide his skill and.,expertise: in supplying his customers with the best quality product.s..c.9}iey us tas