et 7} = Friday, July 28, 1989 - North Shore News Dear Editor: At the event of Mr. Collins’ retirement I’d like to express the views of what I conceive to be the silent majority. To Mr. Collin, we're the glassy-eyed idealists, but to a culminating nation we're the truth. Perhaps a man living in a pro- vince that has not settled land rights with its natives needs a little reminder of Canadian history be- fore he expresses an opinion on our immigration laws. The beauty of Canada is its fresh and forming culture that’s of a new age, one that involves open minds and changes. Maybe that concept is a little difficult for this 68-year-old man to grasp. What is the reason for all this fear he instils? That we might have to compete fairly for jobs in an expanding nation? 1 suggest Mr. Collins and his supporters have become a little too comfortable in their homes on the hill and have littie understanding of what Canada represents. As for the end of someone Doug Collins helped both friend and foe Deer Editor: Many North Shore News readers will view the departure of colum- nist Doug Collins from your page nine witli: the same sense of relief as cne might feel at the news of a local snarling pit bull finally being put Gown Others will react with a sense of joss similar to that experienced when the life of the party departs the soiree and leaves a boring vacuum in hjs wake. I’m with the second group. Whether I agreed with the Col- lins columns or not, I relied on them to pinch my posterior out of complacency on issues of interest. Doug has informed us that he is leaving because ‘‘this is the time.”’ I believe him. He has never been one to bend to the winds of change or to pressure groups. The majority of journalists tend to sway in the cross-currents of the public opi- nion, some so flexible chat they are spineless. Doug, if. nothing else, was con- stantly rigid, fixed to his beliefs with the cement of his personal harrowing war experiences as a prisoner under the thumb of cor- rupt authorities. His courage and conviction to exercise a right to freedom of ex- pression, often against the grain, stirred emotions and many hearts. But, like.a voice crying in the wilderness, he knows when it's time to rest, to soak up the silence and regenerate. It would surprise me if he can be ‘replaced by a columnist capable of agitating the status quo as often or as effectively. It would also be amazing if Doug’s retirement from the keyboard lasted very long. Once having been addicted to the power of the poison pen, withdrawal will likely prove agonizing for him. I hope so. Just STAR ST RUCK? Be where Hollywood North hangs out. | _SUNDECK DINING — = _. FSS PA RESTAURANT . 926-8922 445 13th St., West Van. give a curmudgeon enough time to stew over an issue and his temper will begin to boil. When Doug Collins returns to your pages to provoke, I’m sure it will be with very powerful passion. What a lot of readers failed to realize about Doug Collins was that, for anyone to be the catalyst for such strong feelings on com- munity issues, the person behind the inflammatory words first had to be concerned — to care — on behalf of all of us. That motivation is rare in our relatively affluent and largely apa- thetic neighborhood. When Col- Kins’ column angered me, it helped me to think through an issue and formulate a stand I might not otherwise hayc taken. In that way he helped friend and foe alike to participate more in our democracy. He delighted in being challenged and cursed. Ultimately, he influenced others to care. Let that be his legacy until he finds his voice again. In the meantime Pil miss him. Bon voyage Doug — and happy reflection! Pete Partridge North Vancouver MAILBOX Collins’ retirement made perfect present better birthday present! Kevin Manning North Vancouver preaching ignorance for controver- sy in your paper, I don’t think Canada could have asked for a COMPANIONS’ CARL BRENDERS TTERNATIONALLY #CCLAIMED WILDLIFE ARTI IMAGE SIZE - 19"x27” (LARGER WHEN FRAMED) (DEPOSIT REQUIRED) rtunity to own this time-limited edition print lered amongst the best of Brender’s work. - Early orders will receive a $50 framing credit and an invitation for two to meet Carl Brenders in our gallery where he will show the original “COMPANIONS” and be available for signing. ~ Full colour samples on view at both of our galleries. - Telephone orders accepted. OSTERSON’S FRAMING & ART NORTH VANCOUVER 1324 Lonsdale Ave. North Vancouver V7M 2H8 — Here is your oj which is consi 113 Beneall 1 Qover Mat) 505 Burrard St. Vani M3 OCpm ¢ FRIDAY - SUND DEEP COVE BIKE SHOP LADIES’ FASHIONS LAST DAYS {all sales final)