Opinion

Economic development is a catch phrase quite common in this community these days. Several volunteer groups, government agencies and governments themselves have been and continue to work on many economic development initiatives.

During the past few weeks, the topic of bear problems on the Sunshine Coast has come up on several occasions.

It was certainly a shock to the system arriving back in Vancouver last Saturday night.

I have three old computers jammed into my home office, each serving a different purpose. They all function, but none of them is worth the plastic it's made of any more. My favourite is the Mac Classic on the top shelf of the closet.

Last Tuesday I attended an inspirational community event at the Raven's Cry Theatre.

Just when it seemed the Coast's endless recreation saga was finally approaching a decision, a new proposed location for a Sechelt swimming pool has popped up.

We have a special book in our office that we turn to in times of stress, boredom and the occasional victory. It's a book that has been passed down from reporter to reporter ever since it was introduced to us by former editor Jane Seyd.

Our court system is becoming so overburdened and clogged with unresolved cases that it brings to mind the old adage, "justice delayed is justice denied." The delay in the sentencing of Fred Church last week was a vivid demonstration of the situation.

So the NHL owners have locked out the players, and the threat of no professional hockey this season is a real possibility. As a self-described sports nut and hockey fanatic, you might think these recent developments would have me tearing my hair out.

Every week we seem to report crimes against citizens of the Sunshine Coast. They are always troubling, and many of them don't make much sense. This week we've learned of a crime that is so disgusting it's almost too hard to comprehend.