Sunday, January 30, 2000 — North Shore News - 27 From page 26 high taxes as barriers to the success of the local industry: “We just can’t compete in the world market.” CFI communications. offi- cer Megan Moyle said during a News tour of the shipyard Tuesday that the three PacifiCat vessels had always been the only certainty for the company; that the ferries were tailor-made for the Horseshoe — Bay-Departure Bay run, and that CFI’s mar- keting department — was already busy trying to sell its catamaran designs abroad. Back in °96, the idea was for CFI to design catamarans for international buyers once the PacifiCar. project was fin- ished. “CFI maintains that its ability to customize designs to meet the specific needs of an operator — as exemplified by BC Ferries’ series — is a major asset that it intends to exploit for the world market,” noted the editors of marine journal Speed ar Sea in . NEWS photo Paul McGrath FAST. ferry warker James Stephens stands in the cafeteria area of the third and last fast cat under construction in North Vancouver. December 1998. Bur the ‘Cats themselves have been dogged by prob- lems ever since the first vessel, the PacifiCac Explorer, was jaunched in June 1999, Shipyard workers say there’s been a clear improve- ment from the first ship to the third — though the second vessel, the PacifiCat Discovery, has also _experi- enced mechanical difficulties since entering November. In just a few short months, the ferries — particularly the Explorer — have racked up a catalogue of problems rang- ing from engine trouble to excess wake to leaking sewage and ballast problems. Each time something went wrong, it was lashed to the sinking ship chat was Glen Clark’s leadership. service in Turning the ferries into political ammunition has made them a public relations nightmare: one that inturiates shipyard workers. “It’s che government try- ing to get another govern- ment out,” said marine elec- trician Jim Dight, “and sling- ing mud at cach other. People are picking on these boats and talking about things they don’t really know GRAND OPENING For the Love of Cars about.” “If it was privatized, things could be run a lot more efficienty,” said outfit- ting supervisor Ivan Wilson Of the operational hic cups, Wilson insisted, “This happens with any new vessel. It's a new design and new technology. The shame of it is, these are the best-built boats in Canada. The guys working here are making a product that’s the finest any- where.” If further catamaran con- struction projects arose, said Moyle, it would make sense to bring the same workers on board — “they’ve already got the experience.” She had no date available, though, for when that might happen. Duncan Pearce is pleased to announce the Grand Opening of The Urban Garage, at 1439. Clyde Avenue, West Vancouver. This boutique auto dealership, the first of its kind in West Van, and also the firsi new auto dealership to the community since Wetmore Motors began business in 1946, wili be celebrating its Grand Opening from 6-9pm on February 3, 2000. When asked about the mission of his com- pany, Duncan states, “The Ur! .. : rare rE ~ will cater to its clients’ automotive needs by providing them with the finest quality moter vehicles and motoring accessories. As automotive experience providers, we will deliver our products to our customers in a relaxed yet professionat atmosphere that promotes fun and appreciation of the automobile, while maximizing conve- nience and value for our clients.” THE PICIC FItICI Citic] URBAN GARAGE It works like this: At The Urban Garage, there are no commission sales staff, or the typical overhead associated with a large dealership. As a result, Duncan can offer more personalized consultation and ser- vice, often at lower prices than larger dealerships. While it specializes in pre- owned luxury vehicles, The Urban Gasage can obtain any make or model of new vehicle. Clients can aiso consign their vehicles with The Urban Garage, adver- tising their cars on the Urban Garage Network™ a virtual marketplace for vehicles on the internet. The Urban Garage’s web site at www.theurban- garage.com will be accessible by February 1. For enthusiasts, the Urban Garage also ‘stocks a selection of fun automotive accessories and equipment. Set wi a funky, ald 1911 vintage warehouse, Duncan has cre- ated a gallery for motorcars, where he hopes to combine his love of cars and peo- ple with his entrepreneurial spirit. Only 29, but having grown up in Eagle Harbour on the North Shore, he wel- comes cld friends. and hopes to make « lot of new friends in the neighbourho' especially local auto afficianados. SALES « LEASING © ACCESSORIES 1439 Clyde Avenus, West Van 913-1999 www.theurbangarage.com Savings on items marked ..... red vot BOM ote. . Green Dot 40% off Yellow Dot 30% off ADVANCE NOTICE LOAD RESTRICTIONS Pursuant to Section 26 of the Highway Act, notice is herby given that load restrictions may be placed, on short notice in the near future, on certain highways within the Howe Sound Highways District. ' The restrictions will limit vehicles to 100%, 70% or 50% of the legal axle weights as allowed under the regulations pursuant to the Commercial Transport Act. During the period of the restrictions, overweight permits will nos be granted and all existing, weight permits will be cancelled. Once restrictions are imposed, violarors of the regulations will be prosecuted. Roads that may be subject to load restrictions are routes within the Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton or Bowen Island areas. For further information regarding the specific roads affected by restrictions. Please cai! the following 24 hour message line: (G04) 9831-0004 - Howe Sound District Office Wayne Keiser CBRTSH OLUMBIA District Highway Manager Ministry ot Transportation and Highways Howe Sound District