Discovery Islander Magazine,February 2, 1998
Island Forum
Dear Editor,
I am writing in response to two letters written in the Discovery Islander issue #154, January 1998. (1) and (2)
The letters I refer to are written by John Sprungman and lan LeChemiant. Having read these letters I can only consider these people ignorant, self righteous, hypocrites.
First I will address John Sprungman's letter. Who is he to criticize, lobby against or otherwise condemn the profit mongers of our society or to suggest laws be implemented to lock up those who in his mind are trashing the environment? Is he proposing to have himself locked up?
It was not long ago that John owned a sizable unique parcel of land which he subsequently subdivided into small parcels. No doubt receiving a "quick orgasm of profit" (his words).
In my opinion John trashed a unique ecologically sensitive area. I have no problem with a foreigner profiteering from Canadian land. I do however have a problem with a foreigner criticizing, lobbying against and condemning others for doing what he had done.
I am curious as to what percolates through the mind of someone who continues to build with rare woods and old growth species, not to forget using environmentally destructive materials.
Does he concern himself as to how many bird species or insect species have met their demise because their habitat has now been transported to Cortes? I doubt very much there is any consideration given. All in the name of profit and higher standard of living.
As for lan's letter and comments, I am perplexed that he would not only be involved in an illegal blockade of a public area but that he would have the gall to criticize or condemn anyone for their work ethics or environmental practices. Most Cortes Islanders are aware that lan builds cabinets and other furniture. Much of these items are constructed with expensive rare woods. I can only imagine the cornucopia of chemicals he uses in the glues and petroleum by products that make up the laminate counter tops and hardware. All in the name of profit (greed) and better standard of living.
Environmentally you both fail miserably. As hypocrites you excel.
Unfortunately you're not alone. I have much more respect for those loggers you attack with your letters. They far outrank you when it comes to their genuine concern for the environment and the laws they are required to adhere to. Sensationalism by so called environmentalists often begets rabid distortion of the facts.
You both have so much to say about the logging on Twin Islands. This is private property and you would have received some credibility had you reported the facts about the islands as opposed to blatantly incorrect statements.
Fact: The twins were logged extensively several decades ago. The present owners are not "ravaging" the islands as one of you reported. That was also done decades ago.
Fact: The Twin Islands have never been a recreational site for the general public. These islands have been reserved for the privileged few. (So be it, they paid the property taxes.) It was also used by those who have no respect nor regard for private property. It is well known that its shores and upland (on the closest island to Cortes) have been and no doubt continue to be the play ground for Hollyhock visitors and some locals.
Fact: There are selfish reasons why a few want the Twins to remain as is. One is view from Cortes. My question is what about the owners of Twins who look at the view on Cortes? They are subjected to a marred shoreline littered with homes, shacks and clear cuts .
Fact: The lodge on the Twins which lan would like to preserve as a cultural and heritage site leaves me, and no doubt many, puzzled. Why as a misconstrued environmentalists would you want to preserve a structure of past wealth and power? The lodge was built from many old growth trees during the 40's and the decadent interior walls are adorned with animal skins and other animal parts as is the furniture.
To John, lan and like minded persons, before you feel the urge and justification in outrageous, lobbying against and condemning others, give your head a good shake and do some soul searching of your own. you may well be dismayed at the reality check.
Sincerely, John Hansen
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