| Enough of narr: Dear Editor: This letter is in respouse to a recent article appearing, in the Nérth Shore News titled “Business sense,” where the author applauds BC Rail’s offering Westel Telzcommunications for sale, and carries on to suggest that the government should consider selling off the rest of the BCR Group of Companies. First, let me state that | am not a busi- ness guru or economist, | am definitely not an NDP supporter, and yes — I do work for BC Rail and could be somewhat biased on this issue. [ am not, however, writing this on behalf of BC Rail, bur because I find the general lack of concern for residents and communities outside of the Lower Mainland in this article rather appalling. I will not choose to comment here on the ethics or economics of a Crown cor- poration competing with the private sec- tor:in the telecommunications and/or ec. berthing (Vancouver Wharves) indus- ~- tries, but Ido take exception to the impli- cation that BC Rail is somehow compet- ing with private industry in the rail - freight business. Although fairly apparent from the north shore news MAIL Box article that the author docs not recognize civilization in B.C. outside of the Lower Mainland, or possibly the Greater Vancouver area, it is clearly understood by most citizens of B.C. particularly those north of Vancouver, that there is no other rail line servicing the north/south corridor. One of the mandates of the B.C. gov- erament is to provide development opportunities for the entire province, and to maximize the usage and returns of nat- ural resources. As such, transportation of products is a vital necessity. so why the comment “none of them is essential te British Columbia"? Just because the present executive and workforce in’ general ac BC Rail have made this compan, into a profit centre for the government of B.C. (and a benefit to the taxpayer) is no reason to think thar the entire rail line is profitable. Within one company, the high-profit portions can subsidize the less profitable and ensure that communities from North Vancouver to Fort Nelson enjoy the ben- efits of efficient rail transportation ser- vices. Private industry is usually more motivated towards maximizing the bot- w-mindedness tom line with lithe regard for the well- being of communities or people. The selling off of BC Rail and subse- quent abandonment of the lower profit portions would certainly spell the demise of several northern communities, many of which only became economically viable as the rail line was buiit. What would the B.C. taxpayer rather do — subsidize their tay bill with revenue trom BC Rail or pay mere taxes to sup- port northern communities on Social Assistance or Employment Insurance? Im sure, as weil, thar the citizens of Prince Rupert would have a slightly dif- ferent slant on the negative comments in this article regarding the government's efforts to keep their town alive. I sincerely hope that the author of this article is not in any position co further carry out his narrow-minded beliefs, because even political opportunity makes more sense than the “poor substitute for common sense” shown here. Keep in mind that we're talking about the province of B.C. here, nor the province of Vancouver. Tom Wood Prince George | Newpark Don’t cut monarchy ties Friday, March 13. 1998 — North Shore News - 9 GUINOT 25“off all Guinot products while supplies last LI Wis. 2425 Marine Dr. West Vancouver 926-6214 Dr. Csilla Gyovai DENTIST ANNOUNCES NEW HOURS [Mo [TUE] WE [TH [FR | * Every second Tuesday and every other Saturday is off ** Opan 1 monday per month. New patients are welcome [3738 Mount Seymour Parkway_(*isc's) 929-7499 entrance applauded . Dear Editor: .. What a joy to enter beauti- ful Lynn Canyon park from . the Ross Road entrance now! 2 We can safely walk dogs, babies in strollers and seniors ‘without fear of speeding cars spewing up gravel and almost. hirting animals and people. Pe lived near the area for 30 years — everyone I meet is -.’ happy.to have a safe place to ” walk, to enjoy this serene tor- Dear Editor: In recent News editions columnist Eleanor Godley has discussed Canada’s disassociation with our ties to the monarchy. I find her arguments disappointing in that she fails to acknowledge the positive aspects the Crown has provided for Canada. We as Canadians are encouraged to cele- brate the uniqueness of our multi-cultural society, an ideal E strongly support. However, my heritage is British and the traditions that Canada has adopted from Great Britain (aver the past 500 years) are, for me, very much worth preserving and celebrating. This includes Canada’s head of state, our queen. Constitutional monarchy has and contin- ucs to serve Canada well. Let us nor destrov this timely and useful institution simply because it may appear to be out of fashion. And rather than dwelling on the antics of the Roval Family let us honor and apprecizte the dedicated and selfless service Her Majesty has given to Canada (and to tie common- wealth) uninterrupted for over 46 years. Canada is a diverse and ever-changing soci- ety but we must not lose sight of our history. It is important to know where we have come from and incorporate this knowledge into our modern dav world. Furthermore, Canada’s monarchy proffers a distinct difference between Canadians and our neighbors to the south. James Richard Aadrews North Vancouver imagine...Shopping at Home Draperies « Bedding e Valances est environment. I am certain that garbage dumpers will be - less-able to do their thing as = has been seen quite recently. '-. A sane and sensible move * Cornice boxes/headboards Fes Specials in Mailbox policy * Upholstery » Wall finishes ween ahsaeran! LETTERS to the editor must be legible Moon shot was a hit Dear Editor: ~ by North Van District Parks. Thanks from many people. Denise Jarvis Tc was a real pleasure, after secing so many Sunshine girls, to finally - on the front page no less ~ sce a “moon.” (World-class wedgie, Feb. 20 News.) (preferably typewritten) and include your name, full address and telephone number. Due to space constraints the North Shore News cannot publish all letrers. J#BOT Creative Window Coverings & Home Decorating Ideas 2413 Marine Dr., West Van 922-4668 .. ° North Vancouver Barbara Zimich North Vancouver Joan Eileen Humphries 1923 - 1998 Age 74, died March 7, 1998 after a brief bur sudden illness. A long time resident of North Vancouver, she leaves behind her husband of 50 years, Dennis, daughter Jill Smith, son Mark (Diane) and 5 grandchildren. Predeceased by son Paul and family in 1989. Joan was an active member of Beta Sigma Phi, Chapter PL554 and past volunteer of North Shore . Neighbourhood House, Lions Gate Hospital and head of volunteer services ac Fellburn Extended Care Hospital for over 10 years. She will also be missed by her many friends. ‘The family wishes to thank those friends for their care and conceen and the doctors and nurses on 7 East. A celebration of remembrance will be held on March 14, 1998. 2:00 p.m. at Wesc Vancouver United Church. In lieu of flowers, donations will be gratefully “accepted by Fellburn Fellowship Society. rr ee Mountain biking isn’t rocket science. Building a better one is. _ performuin, variety (of mode! to pring” uality point. by hand : Was bet ey TITANIUM SPORTS TECHNOLOGIES 79" Hillgide MTB 5775 Marine Dr. West Vancouver 921-7336 Across from Thunderbird Marina