The oil sands have been luring Atlantic Canadians long enough to have inspired a few songwriters, Buddy Wasissname and the Other Fellers have written at least two, and several documentaries. It's not a bad place for an Atlantic musician - music from home is a draw. BWatOF sell out five nights in a row when they play out there.

I know a lot of trades people who spend at least part of the year working out there, mostly in the camps, where the best money is, as your room and board is paid. If you have to live in Fort MacMurray, the high cost of living, particularly accomodations, can eat your paycheck fast. Also, like any boomtown, there are a hundred ways to blow your money by way of drugs, drink, gambling and sex. There are men out there who stay for years, and leave with not enough to pay their airfare home - some who fellow workers passed the hat for, to get them out.