Opinion

Editor: Have you ever felt that you were on a runaway train? I did, a few days ago. Drove down Payne Road in Gibsons - a new housing development on the left. Turned left on the highway -a new office building under construction.

It's hard not to feel conflicted about our new driving laws, which this week ramped up penalties for "excessive speeders" and impaired drivers.

Editor: I read the article about the airport expansion (Coast Reporter, Sept. 17) with mixed feelings. From an economic perspective, it may or may not improve things. Operating expenses and future maintenance are sure to affect Sechelt taxpayers.

Editor: Congratulations to those involved on Sechelt council that made the day dock in Sechelt a reality. Now there is an option for locals, visitors and those in distress to access the amenities in town.

Editor: Independent ombudsman? Hmm, let's see. Ombudsman: 'a government official appointed to receive and investigate complaints made by individuals against abuses or capricious acts of public officials.

When I was kid growing up in Dawson Creek, an old lady lived behind us who used to go to funerals for entertainment.

The following letter was sent to Minister of Arts, Tourism and Culture Kevin Krueger and copied to Coast Reporter.

Editor: As the operator of a marine business, I informed Gibsons council recently that due to closure of facilities in the harbour, I was compelled to have my essential vessel servicing performed at Silva Bay on Gabriola Island, which involved a loss

Summer is over, and the return to fall activities has begun.

Editor: Fall is upon us, with winter close behind - and it's time to organize the Elves Club. Last year, Elves Club volunteers distributed 760 Christmas hampers on the Coast.