There are two words like no other two words that make those taking the new direction shutter. Those two words are log books.
To many Squamish New Directions supporters the log books represent all that was not right about the 1990s in Squamish.
The log books being created by artist Glenn Greensides at the Al McIntosh Loggers Sports Grounds were approved by a previous council.
Yes, the books cost Squamish a lot of money. Good art is expensive.
No matter how you feel about the massive wooden structures that will outline the history of our forests, everyone has to face up to the reality that we have them and something needs to be done with them. It appears that the artist is getting close to being finished. A drive by the loggers sports grounds is proof enough that Greensides hasn't been lounging on a beach in Mexico. He appears to be a busy man, too busy to return my phone call requesting an interview.
I've seen one of the books in its final form and it is spectacular. I can't wait for the day when the books are located at their permanent home.
There's the challenge. Nobody knows where the books will finally touch down. The decision is important and needs to be the right decision the first time because the structures are massive and once they are put in place, they will be very difficult to move.
Originally, there was talk of locating the books at the Al McIntosh Loggers Sports Grounds. I recall the mayor indicated at a recent meeting of council that he'd like to see the books located at a forestry museum in the downtown. Both ideas have merit.
Here's another thought for the final home for the books. How about along the new waterfront trail proposed for the Nexen lands?
These ideas need to be assessed and then a decision has to be made because Greensides' amazing work can be an attraction unto itself that will be of significant interest to locals and visitors alike.Council indicated in June that it is thinking about the wooden books.
Our lawmakers tried to get the books out on display for the Canada Day celebrations. The attempts fell short but it suggested that council likely isn't going to let the art work sit and collect moss and mildew in a forgotten corner.
We spent the money so let's think of that as an investment and put our money to work for us. Where should it go so as to attract visitors and help improve our local economy?
If you have a brilliant location, let me know. This won't be my last word on this topic as I know this issue will come up again in this space.
