To the editor:
We are writing to strongly complain about the removal of the LCBO license from Lakeshore Variety Store, Lakeshore Drive, Shuniah, Ontario. This store, under various owners, has had a license to sell Beer and Liquor for over 25 years. Now for no apparent reason LCBO is removing their license.
Not only are they affecting the majority of residents (year round residents, plus the majority of camping residents) of Shuniah who live on or off of Lakeshore Drive; they are also affecting the livelihood of the owners of this convenient store who have been responsible license holders.
On top of all this they are giving the license to a store that sells gas – great plan, gas and booze. Obviously they do not live in Northern Ontario, nor in the Thunder Bay District or they would understand the stupidity of this decision. We were never surveyed nor anyone else we know of who lives here to move it to a less convenient location that affects also the feeling of community of the people who live here. Nothing against Crystal Beach, (who is getting the license), but it will not get our business.
Thunder Bay Source recently had an article concerning Shuniah facing lawsuits due to non -residents partying at O'Connor Point. Now the LCBO wants to sell booze in the direct area being affected by this.
Lakeshore Variety and the owners, Emil and Monika Hohnen, are a big part of our community. There is a community bulletin board in the store where people display lost pets, local yard sales, and local services. The owners are familiar with the people who live here and their friendly, exemplary service is a core part of our community.
The LCBO made a very, very bad decision.
Sharon and Erick Rantala,
Shuniah
