Sooke News Mirror, January 06, 2016 by Black Press Media Group

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Unseasonably hot thethe salmon Unseasonably hotsummers summersare arechanging changing salmon ecosystem and scientists are unsure of ecosystem and scientists are unsure of future consequences to the fish. future consequences to the fish. Page A3 Page A3

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OPINION OPINION likely heard of Saskquatch, but what A2 A2 You’ve You’ve likely heard of Saskquatch, butabout what about Sooksquatch? Columnist Rick Stiebel delves into what Columnist Rick Stiebel delves into what B2 B2 couldSooksquatch? be Sooke’s best kept secret. tammidimock could be Sooke’s best kept secret. A21 Page A16 .com

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Wednesday, January 6, 2016

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PLANNED PLANNEDPOWER POWER OUTAGE OUTAGESHORT SHORT CIRCUIT BUSINESS CIRCUIT BUSINESS

you’re talking 7 to 7, there’s Relocation of utility when no use opening it that day for the poles will force of utility when you’re talkingsaid, 7 to 7, there’s last three hours,” Kneeshaw Relocation adding that it will take at a for the no use opening it least that day merchants to close prepare all meat and poles will force day or solasttothree hours,” Kneeshaw said, deli produce storage, addingfor thatcold it will take at least a for up to 12 hours merchants to close

which, in a sealed container day or so to prepareand all meat and a closeddeli freezer without produce forpower, cold storage, can lastwhich, up to 36 without Sooke News Mirror in ahours sealed container and issue. a closed freezer without power, Octavian Lacatusu But there’s stillupnotosure guar- without Around 42 B.C. Hydro customcan last 36 hours Sooke News Mirror ers in Sooke will lose power next antee it will happen on Monday issue. week as five utility poles are relo- either, as the operation depends But there’s still no sure guarAround 42 B.C. Hydro customgreatly on the weather the night cated along Sooke Road. antee it will happen on Monday ers in Sooke will lose power next Hydro spokesThe relocation efforts are before, said B.C. either,Louwers. as the operation depends week as utility relo- Karla scheduled to five begin onpoles Mon-are person on the cated Road. Hydrogreatly will give theweather affectedthe night day (Jan. 11)along and Sooke carry on until said B.C. Hydro The(Jan. relocation are before, 24-hour notice if spokesThursday 14), and efforts will businesses to begin on Monperson Karla Louwers. the weather turns ugly over the causescheduled power outages that may will giveoperathe affected day (Jan. 11) carry on until weekend, Hydro but even if the vary between two to and 12 hours. 14), and tion willgetsbusinesses TheThursday work will be(Jan. done between pushed back,24-hour the polesnotice if the cause power outages mayneed Church and Townsend roads. that still to weather be moved.turns ugly over the Thevary workbetween will be attwo 6661 said the weekend, but relocation even if the operatoSooke 12 hours. Louwers Rd. on The Monday, with power comes due construcwork will be done between tion to getsrecent pushed back, the poles expected to goand outTownsend at 7 a.m. and along Church roads.tion and stillroad needwidening to be moved. forecasted towork returnwill before 7 p.m. Sooke Road, and since thethe poles The be at 6661 Sooke Louwers said relocation ThatRd. notion difficult for power are dual-circuit, the to amount on proves Monday, with comes due recentofconstrucWayneexpected Kneeshaw, manager of relocating them to store go out at 7 a.m.work and required tion and road widening along of Village Foods Market, who is “fairly significant.” forecasted to return before 7 p.m. Sooke Road, and since the poles has no choice but toproves shut down Still, the outage the leaves That notion difficult for are power dual-circuit, amount of everything for a day. everyone to their own devices, Wayne Kneeshaw, store manager work required of relocating them It wasn’t until two weeks ago with no options whatsoever. of Villagefound Foods that Kneeshaw outMarket, about who is “fairly significant.” has no choice but to shut down Still,POWER the power the poles. See POLE /outage A15 leaves everything for a day. everyone to their own devices, “It’s not OK, because this is wasn’t until Atwo weeksOPINION: ago with options businessIt interruption. couple B.C.no Hydro intentwhatsoever. in that found but out about of hours is Kneeshaw a couple of hours, keeping us in the dark / A9

for up to 12 hours

Octavian Lacatusu

Brian Rundle photo

Who’s who? Sooke wildlife photographer Brian Rundle captured this horned owl checkingBrian outRundle the photo neighbourhood recently near Sooke.

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$409,900 home on 2 acres the poles. · Great water supply “It’sinnot OK, because this is #1 Real Estate Company Canada · photographer Stroll to lake Brian Rundle captured this horned owl checking out the business interruption. A couple Sooke wildlife for Sales last 4 Consecutive Years · recently Carriagenear House allowed of hours is a couple of hours, but neighbourhood Sooke.

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OPINION: B.C. Hydro intent in keeping us in the dark / A9

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wednesday, JANUARY January 6, 6, 2016 2016 WEDNESDAY,

Icy roads a challenge for drivers RCMP responded to three separate vehicle rollovers due to icy road conditions last week. On Thursday, the driver of a commercial van lost control and rolled over into a ditch on Sooke Road near Cooper’s Cove. The accident was one of three rollovers in a 24-hour period. Police also responded to accidents in Shirley and Otter Point.

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WEDNESDAY, January JANUARY 6, 6, 2016 2016 Wednesday,

Dry summer takes toll on returning salmon Octavian Lacatusu Reporting

Hot weather is changing the salmon ecosystem and scientists aren’t sure of future consequences

very year since there were mountains, rivers and oceans, salmon have always made their way back from the salty sea to spawn another generation in local streams. Something’s changed though. Mother Nature’s modus operandi is off its axis, and this year’s abnormally dry summer paints a concerning future for salmon returns across the Island. As such, the number of drought days has gone from very few to 100-plus every year, a staggering change considering droughts of this size occurred once every 10 years, said Wilf Luedke, chief biologist for stock assessment on the south coast for the Department of Fisheries. “We wonder, where does it end? The more days of drought we have, the more it changes the ecosystem, stresses the fish out,” Luedke said, adding that while the trend is unfavorable, every year we seem to “dodge the bullet” just in time, such as this year, thanks to a rainy September. “If this trend continues then we’ll wonder, when does the rain start, are we going to have rain by October, maybe, maybe not? This isn’t a matter that extends into the next five years, but the next 50 years.” Most vulnerable are coho,

Jarle Vines/Wikimedia Commons

Increased drought periods could result in serious consequences on salmon returns over the next 50 years, say scientists. which stay in the system for a year as small fish before they go out to sea. If the water level is low and rivers dry up, they get stuck in little pools that can go up to 25 C, which can be lethal. Chinook face a similar risk, especially in systems that don’t have a lake behind them or some kind of weir control, such as Goldstream and Chemainus rivers. Still, both salmon species are susceptible to the same domino effect which stems from drought, lack of food in particular. If a river is dry for a month, all the insect colonies living under the gravel die off, leaving a gap in food supply when the salmon pass through. Luedke explained that chinook on southern Vancouver Island would be affected in their adult migration depending on when the lay their eggs, which is typically between January and February, then they are out by June or July. With less snowfall and more rain, however, water temperature is warmer, causing the eggs to hatch early and go up to the ocean quicker. This, in turn, throws off the whole timing process.

“For eons, they [chinook] were supposed to get out of there in May, find the plankton in the ocean, now they’re going out in March,” Luedke said. “Question is: Will there be the same food supply there that they evolved to?” In the end, Luedke said DFO is working with local groups in the province on how to monitor and manage water supply. The big concern now is over any river that has a flow control, which most of the major rivers on Vancouver Island. “Water conservation and water management is critical to maintaining the salmon runs,” he said. Human development, such as logging, has affected salmon returns as well, as clear-cut areas no longer have vegetation to absorb the water, allowing it to travel down into rivers much faster, causing gravel to enter streams, which further disrupts salmon. Looking at the larger picture, success of salmon runs will vary depending on the community and its location on the Island. Sooke fisher Ron Neitsch, a fishing charter operator in Sooke for over 20 years, feels this year’s

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salmon returns were a mixed bag, as chinook returns were quite good, but the coho were not. “We had decent water levels, Sooke Salmon Enhancement was able to intercept the chinooks on time, there were some that got into higher water before schedule, although it was still very successful with large salmons,” Neitsch said, adding that the local fishing community has seen drier falls than this one. As for coho, Neitsch said possible reasons why they were less successful is because of a pattern that may had affected its spawn three years ago (since coho are three-year fish) such as floods that may have washed all the eggs away. He added that coho were far less out in the Strait of Juan de Fuca this year as well. In the end, it still comes down to Mother Nature. “Unfortunately, through all our wisdom, even with our 20 to 40 years of fishing experience, it’s usually a wait and see thing. Nobody expected this year to be that great for chinooks, yet it was,” Neitsch said.

••

Unfortunately, through all our wisdom, even with our 20 to 40 years of fishing experience, it’s usually a wait and see thing. Nobody expected this year to be that great for chinooks, yet it was.

news@sookenewsmirror.com

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Wednesday, JANUARY January 6, 6, 2016 2016 WEDNESDAY,

Sooke’s Most Wanted The following individuals are wanted by the Sooke RCMP as of Jan. 5. If you have any information on these individuals or their crimes, you are asked to call the RCMP at 250-642-5241 or anonymously through Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at victoriacrimestoppers.com.

Robert BARKER Age: 42 Wanted: Breach of undertaking

Jon EDE Age: 43 Wanted: Breach of undertaking

Jamie DOLPHIN Age: 22 Wanted: Breach of probation

Police, coroner probe overdose death Octavian Lacatusu Sooke News Mirror

The Christmas holiday ended in tragedy when a young woman was found dead in her mother’s Sooke home in what police are calling a heroin overdose. Miranda Willson, who had just turned 23, was home with her family on Boxing Day when she was discovered by her mother, Lori Willson, at around 11 a.m. Foul play is not suspected and the presence of fentanyl is unknown, police said. The B.C. Coroners Service reported eight recent deaths in Greater Victoria that have either been confirmed or strongly appear to be overdoses in the last three weeks. Health officials say one fatality indicate the new drug is a deadly a mixture that includes methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl, a newer and more potent synthetic opiate. Fentanyl is especially dangerous. Its effect

Sooke Mayor looks to a year of growth and development Octavian Lacatusu Sooke News Mirror

With a roundabout, fresh asphalt, slew of new sidewalks and a shiny new bank, Sooke’s looking good these days, poised to take on 2016 grinning. But the finished projects, while welcome, are just the start, the proverbial gate to planned additions and improvements in the town core and beyond that promise to make Sooke prettier, more functional and more accessible. While still on maternal leave until March 1, Mayor Maja Tait is already eager to continue the momentum the relatively new council began last year, such as considering possible options for the former bank’s empty foundation at Evergreen Centre, as well as adding more pedestrian crosswalks. And now with a fresh infrastructure laid out, the next step is to get the ball rolling on development growth. “We’ve done our part with opening up towards Brownsey, so now what do we do to trigger development in

Maja Tait

••

We’ve done our part with opening up towards Brownsey, so now what do we do to trigger development in the town centre?

the town centre?” Tait asked, adding that if the district’s bylaws and policies are a barrier to development, it needs to identify what they are. Moving westward along Sooke Road is also in the books, such as creating a pos-

NEWS II SOOKENEWSMIRROR.COM sookeneWsmIrror.com A5 A5 NEWS

sible trail connection between two of Sooke’s major assets: Ed MacGregor Park and the Whiffen Spit, as well as addressing the parking issue at the Prestige Hotel. Tait noted this would go hand in hand with infrastructure improvements along Sooke Road west, which would include new sidewalks and crosswalks. Of course, let’s not forget access to medical services, something Tait wants to push forward full-throttle this year. “A waiting list of 700 people to see one doctor is just unacceptable, we need to figure this out,” she said, adding that the district’s primary health committee plans to do a summit in late spring that will focus on making improvements to health care in Sooke. Tait also hopes the district will forge a stronger connection with the Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce, such as having a liaison between the two entities that oversees the progress of that relationship. “Whether it’s myself and the new president meeting, or myself and a councillor, we

have to line up our priorities together,” she said. “It’s not only about making a report on how the money is spent, but also where can we fill in the gaps together.” Coun. Kevin Pearson, who served as acting mayor until Coun. Kerrie Reay took over this month, said much of council’s momentum depends on fulfilling its promises in the official community plan, and making sure it jives with the proposed strategic plan. “We want to continue to build a community that is affordable and provides opportunities that people who live here want,” Pearson said, pointing out that it’s important for the district and council to look forward. “A lot of energy is expended on what went wrong, instead let’s focus on what can go right.” Pearson said continuing on with the vision of access to the harbour, from both an aesthetic and practical approach, is also important this year, as well as accentuating Sooke’s downtown and its best asset – the scenery.

mimics heroin or morphine, but the dose required is considerably less, so even an experienced user can easily overdose. Willson’s case has been turned over to the B.C. Coroners Service for further investigation.

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WEDNESDAY, wednesday, JANUARY January 6, 6, 2016 2016

JdF electoral area pitches in for Syrian family sponsorship

Sooke man charged after scuffle with police

Octavian Lacatusu Sooke News Mirror

A Sooke man was arrested last week after an altercation with Mounties as police responded to a disturbance on Townsend Road. The man, as well as a Sooke RCMP officer, sustained minor injuries and pepper spray contamination during the arrest attempt. Police responded to the home after a call was made of a disturbance in the area. Upon arriving, the suspect became aggressive and told the officers to leave. The officers then attempted to arrest the suspect, who became combative. The suspect, a 32-year-old Sooke resident, is facing charges of assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest.

A few weeks ago, a Sooke group announced it will take the torch to bring a Syrian family here, and now the Juan de Fuca electoral area has offered to pitch in as well. So far, the formally-called Sooke Region Refugee Sponsorship Committee has reached 20 per cent of its goal. With an additional $5,000 pledged by JdF, the committee is well on its way to reaching its $50,000 goal, said Sid Jorna, committee chair. “A lot of people are wondering how best to help out with the refugee crisis,” he said. “All donations we receive will go directly to paying the bills for a family settling here in Sooke.” In retrospect, the funds will support a family of four for a year until it becomes self-sufficient, supplying it with a suitable living space, food, furniture, basic necessities, as well as its integration into Canadian society. So far, Jorna said the committee doesn’t yet know who it will bring

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We’re off to a good start, but we’ve got a ways to go yet.

6470 Willowpark Way

PRIME RIB DINNER IS BACK!

FULL SERVICE REAL ESTATE OFFICE

Office Open Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm

••

Ferries, union ink 5-year deal B.C. Ferries and the B.C. Ferry and Marine Workers’ Union have ratified a five-year agreement that provides for wage increases of 8.55 per cent by its expiry in October 2020. B.C. Ferries CEO Mike Corrigan described the wage and benefit provisions of the new contract as “fair and modest,” noting that the latest agreement means the coastal ferry service will have gone 17 years without a labour dispute affecting its operations. The agreement, ratified by members after it was endorsed by the union executive in October, provides average pay increases of 1.71 per cent per year. There are about 3,500 union members working for B.C. Ferries.

6739 West Coast Rd. | www.rlpvictoria.com

6578 ARRANWOOD DRIVE

1850+UTILITIES - AVAILABLE FEBRUARY 1

Family home, 3 beds/2.5 baths + den. Open plan, gas fireplace, large sun

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T EN room. Deluxe master. Bonus room above double garage. Fenced back yard.

STACEY SCHARF PPTY MGR 250-889-5994

#2–6716 WEST COAST ROAD *CEDAR GROVE CENTRE* 250-642-3240 www.pembertonholmes.com pembertonholmessooke@shaw.ca

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

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WestShore Centre Centre for for Learning Learning && Training Training

250-391-9002

Why I go to WestShore? The reason I go to WestShore is because I never felt a sense of belonging at other schools, I felt surrounded by a large group of people where no one knows my name. During the first week I knew I would be graduating this time around especially when I saw how much passion the teacher had for teaching. I found a teacher that understands my learning style, understands who I am and actually cares about my future and my feelings. All the staff here have a real smile on their face when their kids do well. I’m not just a student to my teachers and staff, I am a brain with a future. My goal is to grad and get into college for carpentry and try to have a great future. WestShore is definitely helping me get to my goal. It was my choice to transfer here and my choice to show up every day. Within a week of being in the class I felt happy, and motivated. I actually wanted to graduate. And here I am. I’m in school and I’m going to graduate, because I have people to support me and I’m so happy I didn’t drop out. I have an even bigger family than normal in this classroom.

Schools Langford Campus

101- 814 Goldstream Avenue

Colwood Campus 2139 Sooke Road

WestShore Metchosin Technical Centre 4495 Happy Valley Road

WestShore Sooke Learning Centre 2145 Townsend Road

WestShore Pacheedaht Adult Learning Centre Port Renfrew 6633 Deering Road

WestShore Beecher Bay Adult Learning Centre Scia’new Nation, 4744E Sooke Rd.

Upcoming Events Semester 2 - February 1 WestShore Advisory Council Meeting: Second Tuesday of the month Spring Break March 14 – 29 Spring PACE Show

101-814 Goldstream Ave, Victoria, BC • 250-391-9002

www.westshorecentre.com

WestShore Centre is a thriving part of School District 62, providing academic courses, grade 12 completion and workplace training since 1986.

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WestShore Centre, Your School of Choice 250-391-9002

250-391-9002 WestShore Centre, Your School of Choice Grades 8 -12 On-line Grades 8 - 10 Paper Based Courses Grades 8 & 9 Mathematics Science Social Studies English

Grades 10, 11, & 12 AP French Language 12 Apprenticeship & Workplace Math 10 & 11 *Art Foundations 11 & 12 Biology 11 & 12 Calculus 12 Chemistry 11 & 12 Communications 11 & 12 Creative Writing 12 English 10, 11 & 12 Family Studies 12 First Nations Studies 12 Foundations of Math & Pre-Calculus 10 Foundations of Math 11 & 12 Graduation Transitions Orchestra 10 *PACE Musical Theatre 10-12 Physical Education 10, 11 & 12 Physics 11/12 (Paper based) Planning 10 & 12 Pre-Calculus Math 11 & 12 Science 10 Science & Technology 11 Social Justice 12 Social Studies 10 & 11 *Studio Arts Drawing & Painting 10, 11 & 12 Work Experience 12A & 12B

Medical Terminology

Medical Office Assistant

Medical Terminology consists of 60 hours of classroom work. Expect 6 or more hours of homework per week. This course is recognized by Camosun College for entry into certain healthcare programs.

Do you enjoy working with people in a dynamic environment, then this program is for you. The program consists of 50 instructional hours. • Medical Office Assistant Procedures • Computerized Medical Billing (Osler) • Medical Keyboarding

Prerequisite:

English 12 or equivalent

Cost:

$550 The Language of Medicine 10th Edition

Instructor:

Angela Kemna Jan 19 - Apr 12 May 3-July 26 Tuesday & Friday, 6:00 - 8:30 pm

Date:

Prerequisites: • English 12 or equivalent • Medical Terminology Course with 75% or better. • Good computer and word processing skills (documentation) Date: Jan 25 - Apr 6 Monday & Wednesday, 6:00 - 8:30 pm Cost: Instructor:

$950 Lanka Dimitrijevic

Bookkeeping Foundations

Sage 50 - Level 1

Foodsafe Basic

Explore the concepts and application of bookkeeping through relevant, practical exercises and projects.

Explore the application of computerized bookkeeping through relevant, practical exercises and projects.

Instructor:

Dermott Crofton

Instructor:

Dermott Crofton

Fee: Texts:

$450 $150 - Basic Bookkeeping – An Office Simulation

Fee: Texts:

$250 $50 - Sage 50 - Level 1 Apr 30 - May 28

FOODSAFE, a sanitation program for foodhandlers is a required course for any individual wanting to work as a foodhandler in the public sector. This course integrates food and worker safety. Includes book and exam. Certificates are provided by the BC Ministry of Health.

Date:

Feb 20 - Apr 23 Saturday, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Saturday, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Instructor:

Marlee Loiselle

Cost: Location: Dates:

$81 Langford Campus Mar 5, 2016 Saturday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

* Some courses require attendance once a week.

SEMESTER 2 SESSION February 1 - June 29, 2016 Day & Evening Classroom Academic Schedule Mathematics Foundations of Math and Pre-Calculus 10 Tue/Thurs

12:00 - 2:30 pm

Pre-Calculus 11

Tue/Thurs

8:45 - 11:30 am

Apprenticeship and Workplace Math 11

Tue/Thurs

8:45 - 11:30 am

Sciences Science 10 Tutorial

Wed/Fri

8:45 - 11:30 am

Science & Technology Tutorial

Wed/Fri

8:45 - 11:30 am

Chemistry 11 Tutorial

Wed/Fri

8:45 - 11:30 am

Physics 11 Tutorial

Mon

4 - 6 pm

Physics 12 Tutorial

Mon

4 - 6 pm

English English 12

Mon/Wed

8:45 - 11:30 am

Social Studies History 12 (School age only)

Mon/Tu/Thur

12:15 - 2:30 pm

Electives First Nations Art 11/12

Wed/Fri

8:45 - 11:30 am

Wed

12:00 - 2:30 pm

Art 11/12

Fri

8:45 - 11:30 am

Carpentry 12 (and Joinery 12)

Wed

8:45 - 2:30 pm

Musical Theatre 10/11/12

Sun

1:00 - 8:00 Spencer

A17

Fast Forward to Graduation

Storefront Tutorial Support

ART CLASSES by Sharon March - Let’s Paint!

Did you know as an adult you can graduate in only 5 months? Here is your opportunity to get started on a new path to employment or post secondary education.

Monday - Thursday,

Let's Paint A Monarch Butterfly With Acrylic Paints

9:00 am - 7:00 pm

We'll practice detail basecoating & sanding techniques, create depth for shading, drybrushing & liner practice. 5" x 7" canvas.

First Nations Graduation Program The Graduation Program integrates First Nations culture into the curriculum. It prepares students for their Grade 12 Graduation certificate. You will be involved in the community with the local First Nations artists, cultural instructors, community members, organizations and Elders.

Futures Cohort Programs Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 The Futures Program provides students an opportunity to work as a cohort group. Our teachers’ work to foster excellent foundational skills, social and personal growth, with a focus on community building and technology.

All students registered in any WestShore Centre course or program can drop in to the WestShore Storefront, Monday to Thursday, for homework support with a teacher. Please check with your teacher on times for specialized tutorial assistance.

On-line Academic Courses

Feb. 1 & 3 (Mon & Wed 6 - 8:30pm) Cost: $69.63 (Supply kits included)

Let's Paint A Black-Capped Chickadee With Oil Paints Painting this little chickadee will teach you feather painting techniques, liner work and shading. 5" x 7" canvas.

Feb. 22, 24 & 29 (Mon, Wed & Mon 6 - 8:30pm) Cost: $91.94 (Supply kits included)

Let's Paint A Red Cardinal On A Branch With Acrylic Paints Wet blending, glazing & layering colours using gel retarder to create the feathers & details. 5" x 7" canvas.

April 4 & 6 (Mon & Wed 6 - 8:30pm) Cost: $69.63 (Supply kits included)

Classes start each month.

Let's Paint Koi Fish With Oil Paints

WestShore Learning Centre offers Grade 8 to 12 academic courses, leading to a BC Graduation certificate.

Paint a 'Kitusui' Koi (scaleless, cream & orange colour accents) swimming by rocks. Basecoating, shading & highlighting techniques, and glazing. 8" x 10" canvas.

Grade 8-9, On-line provides a more flexible learning environment and the opportunity for self paced learning.

A variety of painting techniques while you learn to paint evergreens, foliage (tree tops & shrubs), trunks & branches. No canvas, practicing on transparencies.

Grade 10-12, Secondary school students may supplement their regular school schedule with additional courses through on-line or use this environment to begin Advanced Placement classes. The Adult Program provides a number of choices, from on-line courses to teacher-led seminars. These programs provide you with flexible learning options to complete graduation requirements or just for your personal interest.

April 18 & 20 (Mon & Wed 6 - 8:30pm) Cost: $69.63 (Supply kits included)

Let's Paint A Variety Of Trees With Oil Paints April 25 & 27 (Mon & Wed 6 - 8:30pm) Cost: $69.63 (Supply kits included)

Let's Paint A Landscape Using Acrylic Painting Techniques Wet Blending, stippling, basecoating, shading & highlighting . See how using gel retarder can aid in painting your oceanside forest landscape with a waterfall. 11" x 14" canvas.

May 11, 16 & 18 (Wed, Mon & Wed 6 - 8:30pm) Cost: $91.94 (Supply kits included)

Let's Paint A Landscape With Oil Paints Learn to paint skies, clouds, distant trees & shoreline, water & reflections & a rocky cliff with a waterfall using wet on wet blending techniques, colour mixing & brush techniques to create depth & perspective. 11" x 14" canvas.

May 23, 25 & 30 (Mon, Wed & Mon 6 - 8:30pm) Cost: $91.94 (Supply kits included)

101–814 Goldstream Ave., Victoria, BC • 250-391-9002 • www.westshorecentre.com

For information call 250-391-9002 How to Apply for the Medical Office Assistant Visit our website at www.westshorecentre.com or call WestShore Centre at 250-391-9002. Complete the application form, include all relevant documentation, book an appointment with the Senior Educational Administrator and include a $50 non-refundable registration fee.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY JANUARY 6, 6, 2016 2016 WEDNESDAY,

OPINION II SOOKENEWSMIRROR.COM SOOKENEWSMIRROR.COM A9 A9 II OPINION

Opinion

Publisher

Rod Sluggett

Editor

Kevin Laird

The Sooke News Mirror is published every Wednesday by Black Press Ltd. | 4-6631 Sooke Road, Sooke, B.C. V9Z 0A3 | Phone: 250-642-5752 | Web: sookenewsmirror.com

Our View

B.C. Hydro intent in keeping us in dark WE SAY:

Planned 12-hour power outages could have been handled better.

The B.C. Hydro communications department was running around earlier this week on how to justify its decision to cut power to several Sooke businesses for up to 12 hours in order to move a few utility poles. Only problem was the message wasn’t getting through. B.C. Hydro claims the work was necessary and part of the recent Town Centre project. Yet many businesses affected weren’t even notified of the outage, many more were left in the dark. The work is slated to begin next

week on the project, and B.C. Hydro promises that merchants will get more information – next week. It’s been a common theme for Hydro during the Town Centre project, giving businesses short notice of power outages, sometimes with just a few hours notice. In this case, B.C. Hydro will cut power from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. There was no thought on Hydro’s part to do the work in the evening when there is less business traffic. Businesses like Village Foods will suffer. The biggest concern for

Village is its frozen foods, with no power, there are no freezers. Village Foods could bring generators in for $15,000, but won’t do that and Hydro certainly isn’t willing to foot such a bill. But put Village aside for a moment, with no power other businesses will be affected in a big way – no power means no computers or other ancillary power devices. What business today operates without computers? Hydro could have avoided this problem by being more open. It could

have informed its customers and the public of its plans (some only found out by going to the Hydro website). Thinking outside the box, you would think B.C. Hydro would look at doing this work in what best fits the businesses’ schedules – not by an arbitrary decision without an open conversation. ••• We want to hear from you. Send you comments to editor@sookenewsmirror. com. Letters must include daytime phone number and your name.

They Said It

••

This isn’t a matter that extends into the next five years, but the next 50 years. Wilf Luedke, biologist, DFO – Page 3

If we humans don’t start doing something now, our descendants will suffer enormous consequences.

Greg Whincup, letter writer – Page 10

I don’t care where I am at Christmas. I care where I am at in the last week of February. Trevor Bligh, EMCS coach – Page 21

••

Reform of the electoral process requires dialogue How can you impose a new electoral system on a democratic country without giving citizens a voice to determine the outcome? There is a serious disconnect in the Trudeau government’s plan to make the recent federal election the last one to rely on first-past-the-post voting. It’s not that the government intends to change the way we vote. That was in the Liberal platform and Trudeau is just keeping an election pledge – a more representative system that would be less likely to generate an outcome like the Liberals winning a majority even though they received only 39.5 per cent of the popular vote. There are enough legitimate concerns about first-past-the-post to warrant a national discussion, debate and ultimately

reform. But reform to what? Some prefer ranked balloting — the instant run-off model. Under it, the voter gets a ballot listing the candidates and marks off her first, second, third choices and so on. If no candidate gets a clear majority, the candidate with the lowest number of votes gets dropped, and those votes get divided between the remaining candidates based on which candidates most voters named as their second choice. That goes on until one gets a clear majority. Another option is national proportional representation, also confusing. The Liberals probably don’t favour it because

had a system like that been in place they would have won a minority and the Green party would have something like 10 seats instead of one. Proponents argue it is most accurately representative and allows more voices to be heard. Others advocate a mixed member proportional system. Under MMP you would vote for two representatives, one for your riding and a second from a party list. Complex? Just a bit. Trudeau has said in past he likes the instant run-off model. But his preferences can’t dictate which option wins. That has to be a national discussion, and that’s where the central disconnect comes in. The Liberals don’t plan to have a referendum on which voting system is best for Canada. How can you impose a new electoral

system on a democratic country without giving citizens a voice to determine the outcome? Where is the credibility if the government imposes its own preference, especially if it favours the incumbent government? Referendum critics argue a new voting system is too complex to be decided by average Canadians through a simple vote. So do a better job of engaging and consulting Canadians so they are more engaged and informed. But the idea of unilaterally imposing a new system of voting from the top down in the hopes that it will increase inclusivity and engagement is ludicrously contradictory. You don’t improve democracy by imposing unilateral decisions, certainly not on something as important as the way we vote. – Black Press

SOOKENEWSMIRROR.COM A10 I OPINION I sookenewsmIrror.com

WEDNESDAY, January JANUARY 6, 2016 wednesday,

WE ASKED YOU: What is your new year’s resolutions?

I don’t have any, because I don’t want to disappoint myself with unrealistic promises. Lee Jones Sooke

It would be to live and eat a lot healthier, and be more positive overall. Lynda Danard Sooke

Nothing. I’m just going to enjoy being me all year round. Malleree Mack Sooke

Trying to spend a lot more time with my family. Dave Riggs Sooke

6571 Callumwood Lane $359,900 Modern home with 2000 sq ft, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms & fenced yard. Walk to schools. Call me at 250-6426056. Ask me about “Sweat Equity”.”

Readers’ letters Wishful thinking on climate change Re: Global lukewarming to the skeptical eye (Opinion, Dec. 23) Like Rick Stiebel , I too wish that global warming were a myth. But unfortunately it isn’t, and his article just seems like wishful thinking to me. More than 90 percent of climate scientists believe that climate change is happening, and that it is largely caused by human activity. World governments would not be promising to spend so much money on the problem if the facts were not staring them in the face. Air and ocean temperatures are high, polar ice caps are definitely melting, and sea-level rise has begun to threaten lowlying tropical islands. An overall temperature rise of two degrees Celsius is probably already inevitable, but if we don’t find ways to reduce our emission of greenhouse gases, temperatures may rise so high that coastal cities are flooded and soils are changed to the point that we won’t be able to grow enough food to feed ourselves. Talking about government as companies’ “co-conspirators” is really a self-defeating way of thinking. Of course companies will try to make as much profit as possible. I can’t blame them. But government is our only tool for keeping them from going too far. If we don’t like our government, it is our job to help nominate and elect a government that will really work for us rather than for private interests. And then we have to work with our governments to make sure they continue to serve our real longterm interests -- not just for our own convenience today, but for our descendants for decades to come. The word “skeptical” sounds so smart, but climate-change denial is really just wishful thinking, hoping without real evidence that the whole problem is a figment of

Letters policy Letters should not exceed 300 words in length. All letters must include a full name, community of residence and a phone number, although the number will not be published. Email submissions to editor@ sookenewsmirror.com.

There’s more online www.sookenewsmirror.com PRICES IN EFFECT

WikiMedia Commons

Jan. 3 -12, 2016 (AB & BC) Jan.4 -12, 2016 (SK & MB)

We can’t ignore climate change or pretend it doesn’t exist, says a letter-writer. someone’s imagination. I wish it were, but the evidence keeps growing, and if we humans don’t start doing something now, our descendants will suffer enormous consequences. Greg Whincup Sooke

More work needed on crosswalks Wow! We now have a milliondollar roundabout. Now all we need is an improvement on crosswalks and proper lighting on sidewalks. It is no easy task on any corner in town for pedestrians, even at the lights (if cars stop for you). Bill Jones Sooke

Food Bank organizers earn special bouquet Hats off and big bows to the Sooke Food Bank organizers. I had the privilege of spending a few hours on Dec. 18 to help sort the produces that came in for the Christmas hampers. I was overwhelmed by the volume of details and organized skills of the leaders who do so much for the people in need. They are a class act and I hope I will be able to help in the future. I wish everyone in Sooke could see what goes on there and at some time be able to help. Judithe Ann Gatto Sooke

Tolls could be answer to Sooke Rd. traffic woes Re: Major roadwork (News, Dec. 16) Your statistics on the number of people who live in the Sooke area but work on the other end of Sooke Road illustrate that costs need to be all-in for sound decision-making. Without a cost for use of the road, people are more inclined to split work and home locations to get lower cost housing. Demand for roads, and shifting of traffic patterns, was shown decades ago across the Fraser River, south of Vancouver. When the Alex Fraser Bridge was opened the Transportation Ministry cautioned people that it was not the solution for all time – they forecast the bridge would be operating at capacity in 10 years, but it was only two years later. People shifted routes and more moved to the distant suburbs. Perhaps a bypass to Sooke Road could be funded by tolls. The price of use for each individual would be quickly paid back by saving of their one scarce resource – time alive, less risk to their health, and fewer job problems from being late for work when Sooke Road is closed by an accident yet again. Keith Sketchley Saanich

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LOWER LEVEL OUTSIDE OF TILLICUM CENTRE ACROSS FROM PEARKES REC. CENTRE • 250-475-7501 Store Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9:30 am - 9:00 pm Sat. 9:30 am - 5:30 pm Sun and Holidays 11:00 am - 5 pm

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We reserve the right to limit quantities

for shut-ins.

6660 Sooke Road Open 7 Days a Week 7:30 am to 10 pm We reserve the right to limit quantities

Call Thursdays between 9am and 12pm at 250-642-6525

Your Community Food Store AD PRICES IN EFFECT JANUARY 6 THRU JANUARY 12, 2016 Kraft

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We offer a shopping service in Sooke

Call Thursdays between 9am and 12pm at 250-642-6525

WESTERN FOODS BLOCK BUTCHER’S

Stock Up Your Pantry

Fresh For Your Family

WESTERN Campbell's FOODS

All Varieties 540 mL

Sirloin Tip Roast

Lays XXL

/lb

Idahoan

AAA

Sirloin Tip Steak 13.21/kg ............................

Fresh

Ground Sirloin 11.00/kg ...........................

Beef Stir Fry

5 6 Fast Fry 59 99 Steak 4 6 Turkey Bacon 49 99 4 5 Turkey 49 Franks 29 4 4 /lb

89 /lb

15.19/kg .................................

AAA

/lb

14.53/kg ..............................

Butterball

Fletcher's

Bacon Regular or Thick Cut 500g .................................

Johnsonville

Smokies Smoked or Cheddar

375g ....................................

Butterball

375g ...................................

Dutch

650g .....................

Fresh

Oyster Tubs

Coho Salmon

Fillets

/100g

8oz

99 ea

WESTERN Smoked FOODS Salmon

Lox

400g 3 Varieties .....

Safflo

2/ 00

Old El Paso Stand & Stuff

Unico

375 mL ........................

Taco Kits

299 ea

250-400g ...................

Chef Boy Ar Dee

389 ea

Texana

1L ................................

Cookies 300g All Varieties ........

Grape Juice

ea +dep

642 mL All Varieties .....

/100g WESTERN FOODS

600g Selected Varieties

/100g

Bagels

6's ...............................

79¢ ea

Bread

680g .....................

2/ 00

300g ..........................

900g ...........................

49 ea

00 2/ +dep

Cat Chow 750g ...........................

349

All Varieties 1.8kg ...........................

Gummy Bears ..........

/100g

Sierra Mountain

Trail Mix .........................

450g 3 Varieties

/100g

California

Bamboo Towels ..................................

449 ea

Dishwashing Detergent 950 mL ........................

3.58L ...........................

299 ea

349 ea

2/ 00

Pitted Dates ................

Red Seedless Grapes 6.59/kg ....................................

Washington Extra Fancy

Life Cereal

Quaker

Ketchup

8's ..............................

Liquid 99 Bleach

Heinz Squeeze

Bathroom Tissue

Clorox

Dog Food

Purex Double Roll

Sunlight Lemon Liquid

Purina

Purina Beneful

Dragon

Rockstar

473 mL All Varieties

500 mL

Premium Plus Crackers

Energy 69 Drinks

Bakers

35g .........................

All Varieties

640 mL

Mints .......

269

Lumberjack 7 Grain, Rustic Trail or Wheatberry

213 mL 3 Varieties ....

Pasta Sauce

4/ 00 Scotch

Bread

Ragu

Baked Beans in Sauce

BULK FOODS

Old El Paso

Heinz

398 mL All Varieties

Christie

Dempsters Cinnamon Raisin

299

Washington

Extra Garlic or Tangy Dill

525g

Salsa or Picante Taco Seasoning Chocolate Chips 69 Sauce 49 Mix ¢

1.36L ..........................

Pace

Welch's White or Concord

69 ea

Unico

2kg .............................

California

/lb

Pickles

Cheerios Cereal

Dempsters Whole Grain

Christie

Pizza Pasta in Sauce Basmati All Varieties Indian Rice 99 Sauce 4/ 00 425g ....................

Bick's Stacker

General Mills

2/ 00

425g 3 Varieties

Olive Oil

Chili Con Carne

499

1kg

Unico Extra Virgin

284 mL

7.25/kg

Campbell's

Raisins

4/ 00

170g

Marshmallows Sunflower Oil

2/ 00

Kalamata Olives

In Water

Sliced Mushrooms

Kraft Jet Puffed

Apple Sauce

Treats from the Previously Frozen

Sunmaid

Light Tuna

289

Red Peppers

Gold Seal Chunk or Flaked

Money's

99¢

113g All Varieties

450g ......................................

SEA

425 mL All Varieties

Instant Potatoes

AAA

3/ 00

255g All Varieties

225g

WESTERN FOODS

Israel

Macaroni & Cheese Dinner

Barbeque Sauce

Chips

PRODUCE

WESTERN FOODS

Kraft

Kraft Bulls Eye

Potato

WESTERN FOODS

10.56/kg

5-A-Day for Optimum Health

GROCERY GROCERY SAVINGS SAVINGS

Chunky Soup

AAA

for shut-ins

3lb Mesh Bag .......................

/lb

2.62/kg

/100g

Texas

B.C. Grown

3lbs

1.52/kg

1.30/kg

/lb

Et Tu

Gold Dust Medium Caesar Grapefruit Potatoes Rutabagas Salad Mix Pink

6 69 59 ¢

2/ 00

/lb

ORGANIC CORNER California

Baby Carrots 1lb

3.06/kg

/lb

Garlic

Bunch Carrots

Apples

99¢

Imported Bulk

California

Granny Smith

Onions

2/ 00

132g

¢ 2/ 00

/lb

WESTERN Organic FOODS

Garlic 85g

2/ 00

A14

I SOOKENEWSMIRROR.COM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

WESTERN Quality and Convenience FOODS

FROZEN Dr. Oetker Casa di Mama

Ultlimate Pizzas

Egg or Spring Rolls 49

WESTERN FOODS

Green Giant

DAIRY

4 2/300 599 49 4

360-680g All Varieties

All Varieties 250g ...............

18% Table Cream

Dinner EntrĂŠes

Chapman's

Frozen Yogurt

2L All Varieties ............

Milk

2L 3 Varieties .............

Cool Whip Aerosol

Dessert Topping 225g .........................

Olympic Organic or

Krema Yogurt

Blue Diamond

Daiya Dairy Free

Maitoba Harvest

Cheese Style Shreds

Hemp Hearts 227g

3 2/ 00 7 2/ 00 4

All Varieties 227g .......................

Knudsen

29 ea

Almond Breeze

All Varieties 1.89L ..........................

Earth's Balance

3 429 299 49 ea

Pineapple Coconut Natural Buttery

Juice

946 mL ............

Kettle Bakes

99 ea

Potato Chips

All Varieties 113g ................

Quality and Convenience

ORGANIC Pacific Organic

Soups

+dep

Spread

425g ..........................

Wise Crackers

Artisan Crackers 114g ..........................

Crofter's Organic

WESTERN FOODS

Fruit Spreads 235 mL All Varieties ...................................................

Amy's Organic

Chili

All Varieties 1L

398 mL All Varieties ...................................................

Earth's Choice Organic

Lemon or Lime Juice 250 mL ......................................................................

Plum M Good

99 ea ea ea

Brown Rice Cakes 95g All Varieties .........................................................

Harvest Sun Organic

Bouillon Powder 120-180g 2 Varieties ..................................................

NATURAL FROZEN

WESTERN Annie Chun's

FOODS Roasted Seaweed

Snacks

10g ...................

4 299 69 2

2/ 00

Toilet Tissue

4 Roll .........................

Frontera Taco, Enchilada or

Fajita Sauce

226g .........................

2 69 2 249 179 429 ea

We reserve the right to limit quantities

Corn Tortillas

226g .........

Alexia

Sweet Potato Fries 425g ....................

299

GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS Udi's

Gluten Free

WESTERN FOODS

Bread

Selected Varieties

340-406g .....................

Annie's

Rice Pasta & Cheddar Meals

170g ............................

LANGFORD Your Community Food Store 772 Goldstream Ave. Open 7 Days a Week 7:30 am to 10:00 pm

WESTERN FOODS

Buenatural Organic

Caboo Bamboo Sugercane

599 449 79 2 799

1.75kg All Varieties .......

For Your Healthy Lifestyle

NATURAL FOODS

4L ..............................

Lactose Free

Chocolate Milk Natrel

Marie Callender's

680g All Varieties ........

WESTERN FOODS

Island Farms

Vegetables in Sauce

All Varieties 395g

Island Farms

Remember Your Calcium

Wong Wing

Locally owned and operated since 1974

AD PRICES IN EFFECT JANUARY 6 THRU JANUARY 12, 2016

299 ea

SOOKE

6660 Sooke Road Open 7 Days a Week 7:30 am to 10:00 pm

We reserve the right to limit quantities

Wednesday, JANUARY January 6, 6, 2016 2016 WEDNESDAY,

Hydro, ICBC, MSP fees going up Medical Services Plan premiums, electricity bills and vehicle insurance rates are up in 2016, reviving criticism of the B.C. government’s constant boast about keeping taxes low. MSP premiums are up from $144 to $150 as of Jan. 1, for a family of three earning more than $30,000 a year. For a single person in the same income group, the rate goes from $72 to $75, with lower rates for lower incomes down to $22,000 a year, where premiums drop to zero. B.C. is now the only province in Canada with a health care fee, and it has risen about 40 per cent since 2010. Premier Christy Clark has defended the fee as a signal to citizens about the enormous cost of providing health care. BC Hydro rates have been politically dictated since Clark and Energy Minister Bill Bennett intervened to cap rate increases in 2013. Hydro rates jumped nine per cent in 2014, followed by annual increases of six, four, 3.5 and three per cent in the 10-year rate plan. Starting with the proposed four per cent increase in 2016, the independent B.C.

power Village Foods through the outage, he would have to haul in massive generators from Vancouver to the tune of $15,000 per day. And that’s without hook-up fees and lost revenue for the entire day. “It’s just not very cost-effective,” Knee-

From page A1 “B.C. Hydro cannot guarantee power, planned and unplanned outages happen,” Louwers said. “Customers who require power should have a plan to deal with power outages.” It’s easier said than done. For Kneeshaw to

2205 Otter Point Road, Sooke Phone: 250-642-1634 Fax: 250-642-0541 email: info@sooke.ca website: www.sooke.ca

Utilities Commission (BCUC) is reviewing if rate increases can be lower than what is capped in the rate plan. Insurance Corporation of B.C. basic vehicle insurance went up by 5.5 per cent on Nov. 1, an increase still subject to review by the BCUC. That works out to an increase of $3.70 per month added for the average driver. ICBC had proposed a 6.7 per cent increase to cover increasing costs of personal injury claims and fraud, but the province gave it permission for a one-time transfer of $450 million from its optional insurance business to subsidize the basic rate. In a year-end interview, NDP leader John Horgan stopped short of promising to eliminate MSP premiums, but he called it a “regressive tax” that would be part of a broad review of B.C. taxation fairness if he wins the 2017 election. The Canadian Taxpayers’ Federation says the people who benefit from the federal government’s middle-class tax cut will see most of those savings eaten up by provincial and municipal tax increases.

Power pole relocation begins on Monday along the route will be affected though. Western Foods remains unaffected, said Jeff Stewart, the store’s manager. Work on Jan. 11 is expected to start at 7 a.m. at 6661 Sooke Rd., then 6670 the following day, as well as 6610 on Jan. 14.

shaw said, adding that he will find out Saturday from B.C. Hydro on whether or not the pole replacement on Monday will go through, though he hopes it does. “If it happens on Monday, it works out better. Let’s just get this over with.” Not all businesses

NEWS II SOOKENEWSMIRROR.COM sookeneWsmIrror.com A15 A15 NEWS

Upcoming Public Meetings Regular Council Meeting Public Hearing – 2017 Idlemore Road Monday, January 11, 2016 at 7:00 pm

Parks & Trails Advisory Committee Tuesday, January 12, 2016 at 1:00 pm This schedule is subject to change. Please call 250-642-1634 to confirm meetings. Council meeting agendas may be viewed at www.sooke.ca

Business Licence Renewals A reminder to all Business owners that your current Business Licence will expire on December 31st, 2015. Business Licences must be renewed by January 31st, 2016 by remitting the appropriate payment to the District of Sooke office. For further information, please contact the District of Sooke at 250-642-1634 or visit www.sooke.ca

There’s more online www.sookenewsmirror.com

news@sookenewsmirror.com

Community

Calendar Thurs Jan. 7

Fri Jan. 8

ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION

VITAL VITTLES

Cribbage 7 P.M. BINGO Sr. Drop-In Centre, 12:45-3 p.m. Sooke Community Hall. Info: 250-664-6612. ADULT WALKING GROUP SEAPARC 10-11 a.m. Registration required. 250642-8000. MEDITATION TALK Sooke Yoga and Meditation Centre, 7:30 p.m.

Sat Jan. 9

ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION Free lunch, 11:30 a.m. to Meat draw 3 p.m. 1 p.m. Holy Trinity Church. ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION Steak Night, 6-7:30 p.m. Karaoke 8-11 p.m. SOOKE SENIORS’ BUS Lunch and shopping trips to Victoria. Call June at 250-642-2032.

Directory: Where to find what Child, Youth & Family Centre: 6672 Wadams Way Family Medical Clinic: 1300-6660 Sooke Rd Holy Trinity Church: 1952 Murray Rd Knox Presbyterian Church: 2110 Church Rd Legion #54: 6726 Eustace Rd Museum: 2070 Phillips Rd Peoples Drug Mart: 8-6716 Sooke Rd SEAPARC: 2168 Phillips Rd St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church: 2191 Townsend Rd Sooke Senior’s Bus: $15 annual membership. 250-642-4662 Municipal Hall: 2205 Otter Point Rd Sooke Community Hall: 2037 Sheilds Rd.

SHOPPERS 250-642-5229

DRUG MART

COMMUNITY CALENDAR DEADLINE: THURSDAY @ 3PM Items for Community Calendar must be non-commercial and free to the public. Please limit to 25 words.

Sun Jan. 10

Mon Jan. 11

Tues Jan. 12

Wed Jan. 13

ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION

PARENT & TOT DROP-IN

BABY TALK

WALKING GROUP

Sunday breakfast brunch, 9-12:30 p.m., $5. Drop in pool tournament every second Sunday. Pictures of the Past A guided tour of the coastline. East Sooke Regional Park. Ayland Farm parking lot, Becher Bay Rd., 1 p.m. Bluegrass Jam, first and third Sunday, 2:30 to 5 p.m. October to May. QI GONG & TAI CHI By donation. Sooke Yoga and Wellness, 6750 Westcoast Rd., 6 p.m. MINDFULNESS MEDITATION By donation. Sooke Yoga and Wellness, 6750 Westcoast Rd., 7:15 p.m.

Child, Youth, & Family Centre, 9:30 to 11 a.m. 250-642-5152. CALLING ALL QUILTERS Knox Pres. Church. All welcome. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Info: 250-642-0789. ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION Euchre 6:30 p.m.

Youth and Family Centre, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Info: 250-642-5464.

People’s Drug Mart hosts a walking club, 9:15 a.m. PARENT DISCUSSION GROUP YOUTH CLINIC Sooke Child, Youth, and Family Centre, 9:30 to Ages 13 - 25, 4-7 p.m. 11a.m. Information: 250Family Medical Clinic. SOCIAL CONTRACT BRIDGE 642-5464. ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION Sooke Community Hall, 1 to 4 p.m. Dominos 10 a.m. Shuffleboard, 6:30 p.m. KNITTING CIRCLE Sooke Library, 6:30–8:00 NASCAR POOL p.m. 250-642-3022. Meet and Pick, Sooke Legion 7 p.m. WOMEN’S CANCER TOASTMASTERS SUPPORT GROUP Sooke Harbour House. Village Foods meeting 7 to 9 p.m. Ongoing every room, 7 p.m. Info: Allan second Tuesday. at 250-642-7520. SENIORS LUNCH SOOKE COMMUNITY CHOIR Sooke Senior Drop All Community Prestige Hotel, 7 p.m. events purchasing a In Centre at Sooke display ad will appear Community Hall, 10 a.m. in our current com- to 12:30 p.m. munity event calBINGO endar at no charge. Sooke Senior Drop FREE EVENTS will be In Centre at Sooke listed at no charge, Community Hall, 10 a.m. space permitting. to 12:30 p.m.

A16 II COMMUNITY COMMUNITY II SOOKENEWSMIRROR.COM sookenewsmIrror.com A16

wednesday, JANUARY January 6, 6, 2016 2016 WEDNESDAY,

It is time to cash in on Sooksquatch Conspiracy

Rick Stiebel Rickter Scale

Now that the shiny new roundabout is inching toward completion, making us the envy of every town our size that doesn’t have a million dollar traffic circle, it’s time for a concerted effort to entice more people to spend their time and money in Sooke. While a walk on Whiffen Spit, some of the best fishing in the world and the Sooke Philharmonic attract a certain demographic from throughout the Capital region and beyond, we need something decidedly more mainstream, with curb appeal guaranteed to attract the unwashed masses. I think the solution is right here in our own backyard, stands about seven feet tall, is covered with fur and lives somewhere in the Sooke Hills. With a little help from locals eager to buy into a good scam, we can orchestrate a plan that will have gullible people from all over the globe coming to Sooke to see our Sooksquatch. First, we cajole the local chamber of commerce into coughing up enough coin to create a costume. It doesn’t have to be too elaborate, just something that looks somewhat believable in a blurry photo shot from a distance that we post on a website. We can use some of the tallest members of Edward Milne School’s basketball team to play the part of Sooksquatch and add more pictures from various locations that highlight our locale. I’m sure we can find a chambermaid at the Prestige willing to play along with an early morning Sooksquatch sighting and a couple of sleep deprived teens

working the drive through at McDonald’s to say “It was really dark and raining pretty hard, but it sure looked like Sooksquatch wolfing down a burger in the back of that Ford F-150 at 4 a.m. last Thursday.” We could utilize the local theatre troupe to stage some sightings we add to the website to convince out of towners that there’s a good chance you’re going to run into someone who’s had a close encounter with Sooksquatch if you spend some time here. Setting up a couple

of encounters on the same day would establish the notion that there may be even more than one of these friendly beasts in our midst. If we can convince our First Nation friends to buy in by concocting an ancient legend that ties into Sooksquatch with a well-placed wink, nod or nudge, it will boost our international street cred considerably. Then we organize a contest, under the direction of the Sooke Fine Arts Society, to design a unique Sooke toque featuring a furry Sooksquatch patch

that we sell at local businesses. The profit from the toques will immortalize the brand and finance a slush fund to cover legal fees if our conspiracy is exposed on CNN. Then, with all the money we squirrel away during the heyday of Sooksquatch, we can proceed with plan B to put Sooke on the map by building a casino where we shepherd in another flock that loves to be fleeced. ••• Rick Stiebel is a Sooke resident and semi-retired journalist.

The Pastor's Pen The Incarnation #1 Joseph Damien was a missionary in the 19th century who ministered to people with leprosy on the island of Molakai, Hawaii. Those suffering grew to love him and revered the sacrificial life he lived out before them. One morning before Joseph was to lead them in their daily worship, he was pouring some hot water into a cup when the water swirled out and fell on his bare foot. It took a moment to realize that he felt no sensation. Gripped by the sudden fear of what this could mean, he poured more hot water on the same spot. No feeling whatsoever. Damien knew immediately what had happened. As he walked tearfully to deliver his sermon, no one at first noticed the difference in his opening line. He normally began every sermon with, “My fellow believers.” But this morning he began with, “My fellow lepers.” In a greater measure Jesus came into this world knowing what it would cost Him. He bore in His pure being the marks of evil. Paul would write, “He that knew no sin became sin for us.” To think that God would be willing to lower Himself to our flesh, would be willing to give up his omnipresence to be confined to time and space, would be willing to be “God with us” boggles the mind. In this dark winter season the essence of the incarnation is worth contemplating! SOOKE BAPTIST CHURCH 7110 West Coast Road | 250-642-3424 SUNDAY SERVICE 10:00 am Children, youth & adult ministries

Pastor Rick Eby

Email sookebaptistchurch@shaw.ca www.sookebaptistchurch.com

HOLY TRINITY Anglican Church 1962 Murray Road | 250-642-3172 HOLY COMMUNION SERVICE: 11am The Rev. Dimas Canjura www.holytrinitysookebc.org

9:30amBibleStudy•11:00amChurchService

KNOX PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 2110 Church Rd | 250-642-4124 SUNDAY SERVICE 10:15 am Pre-Service Singing 10:30 am Family worship Rev. Dr Gordon Kouwenberg Parents Room and well equipped Nursery

Pastor Lowell Holmquist Sunday @ 10:30AM | clachurch.com/sooke 6851 West Coast Road | 250.642.4822

ST. ROSE OF LIMA Roman Catholic Parish 2191 Townsend Rd. | 250-642-3945 | Fax: 778-425-3945 Saturday Mass 4pm | Sunday Mass, 9am Thursday Mass 10:30 am Children’s Religious Ed: Sat. 5pm Office Hours: Tue 12-3 Wed 10-12 Thurs 1-3 Rev. Fr. Marinaldo Batista

JUAN DE FUCA SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 4251 Sooke Road | 778-425-3403 SATURDAY SERVICE

2205 Otter Point Road, Sooke Phone: 250-642-1634 Fax: 250-642-0541 2205 Otter Point Road, Sooke email: info@sooke.ca Fax: www.sooke. 250642-0541 Phone: 250-642-1634 2205 Otter Point Road, Sookeca website: Fax:info@sooke.ca 250-642-0541 Phone: 250-642-1634email: website: www.sooke.ca email: info@sooke.ca website: www.sooke.ca

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Council of the District of Sooke will hold a Public Hearing pursuant to the provisions of the Local Government Act in the Council Chambers at 2225 Otter Point Road, Sooke, BC on Monday The Council the District of Sooke will hold January 11,of2016 commencing at 7:00 pm. a Public Hearing pursuant to the provisions of the Local Government Act in the Application Information: Council Chambers at 2225 Otter Point Road, Sooke, BC on Monday Bylaws:11, 2016 commencing Bylaw No. at 627, Official January 7:00 pm. Community Plan Amendment Bylaw (400-8) Application Information: Bylaw No. 628, Zoning Amendment Bylaw Bylaws: Bylaw No. 627, Official Community Plan (600-21) Amendment Bylaw (400-8) File No: PLN001202 Bylaw No. 628, Zoning Amendment Bylaw Civic Address: 2017 Idlemore Road (shown outlined in black Input: (600-21) Public All persons who believe their interests in property are affected by the proposed bylaw(s) will be afforded an opport be heard at the Public on the mattersmap) contained in the proposed bylaw(s). Should you have any concerns and hatched on theHearing subject comments you wish to convey to Council, please submit in writing by fax to 250-642-0541, email bsprinkling@soo File No: PLN001202 person to the Corporate Officer at the District Municipal Offices no later than Monday, January 11 , 2016 at 4:00 Legal Description: Lot 4, Block 3, Section 7 Sooke District, Plan Please be advised that submissions to Counciloutlined will become part of the record. Civic Address: 2017 Idlemore Road (shown inpublic black Public Input: persons who believe their interests in property are affected by the proposed bylaw(s) will be afforded an opportun 2434. AllbeNOTE: Council cannot receive further information concerning this application after the Public Hearing has heard at the Public Hearing on the matters contained in the proposed bylaw(s). Should you have any concerns or and hatched on the subject map) concluded. comments you wish to convey to Council, please submit in writing by fax to 250-642-0541, email bsprinkling@sooke Applicant: Rob Peters c/o Sooke Moving and person to the Corporate Officer at the District Municipal Offices no later Storage than Monday, January 11 , 2016 at 4:00 p Bonnie3, Sprinkling Legal Description: Lot 4, Block Section 7 Sooke District, Plan Please be advised that submissions to Council will become part of the public record. Corporate Officer #2018 Idlemore Road, Sooke, BC V9Z 0A9 2434. NOTE: Council cannot receive further information concerning this application after the Public Hearing has concluded. Proposal: Applicant: Rob Peters c/o Sooke Moving and Storage Bonnie Sprinkling Corporate Officer The purpose of Bylaw No. #2018 Idlemore Road, Sooke, BC V9Z 0A9 627, Official Community Plan Proposal: Amendment Bylaw (400-8) is to The purpose of Bylaw No. change the current designation 627, Official Community for 2017 Idlemore RoadPlan from Amendment (400-8) is to Community Bylaw Residential (CR) to change the current designation the proposed Technical Industrial for 2017 Idlemore Road afrom (TI), which will support range Community Residential (CR) to of commercial and industrial the proposed Industrial activities thatTechnical are primarily indoors, (TI), which will support a rangeunits ‘clean’, allow for a live/work oforcommercial and industrial residential above the business activities that which are primarily activity, and have a indoors, higher ‘clean’, for adesign live/work level ofallow building and units street orfrontage residential above the business improvements similar to activity, and which have a higher that of commercial areas. level of building design and street The purpose of Bylaw No. 628,toZoning Amendment Bylaw (600-21) frontage improvements similar is toofrezone 2017 Idlemore that commercial areas. Road from “Rural Residential (RU4)” to the proposed “Service Commercial (C3)” zone, which permits service The purpose uses of Bylaw Zoningdependent Amendment Bylaw (600-21) commercial that No. are 628, automobile including: is to rezone 2017 Idlemore Road from “Rural Residential (RU4)” to Theproposed purpose “Service of Bylaw Commercial No. 628, Zoning (600-21) the (C3)”Amendment zone, whichBylaw permits service is to rezoneuses 2017that Idlemore Road fromdependent “Rural Residential commercial are automobile including:(RU4)” to the proposed “Service Commercial (C3)” zone, which permits service The purpose of Bylaw No. Zoningdependent Amendment Bylaw (600-21) h) Parking including: lot, parkade a) Auto service facility commercial uses that are 628, automobile is to b) rezone Idlemore Residential i) Place of worship(RU4)” to Body 2017 and paint shopsRoad from “Rural a) Auto service facility i) Parking parkade the proposed “Service Commercial (C3)”j)zone, whichlot, permits service Restaurant c) Car wash c) Bodyuses and that paintare shops j) Placeincluding: of worship commercial automobile dependent k) Vehicle repair d) Carpentry shops d) Car wash k) Restaurant sales/rentals e) Auto Equipment sales/service/ rentals l)i)Vehicle a) service facility parkade e) Carpentry shops l)Parking Vehicle lot, repair m) Wholesale, storage or f) Gas bar c) Body and paint shops j) Place of worship f) Equipment sales/service/ rentals m) Vehicle sales/rentals g) Car Machine shops d) k)n)warehousing Restaurant g) Gaswash bar Wholesale, storage or e)h)Carpentry shops l) Vehicle repair Machine warehousing Adoption of Bylawshops No. 628 will be rentals subject to m) the Vehicle registration on title of a f) Equipment sales/service/ sales/rentals Section 219 Covenant relating to funds offered by the applicant to Adoption Bylaw No. 628 will be subject n) to Wholesale, the registration onhelp title g) Gasofbar storage or develop a trail along Idlemore Road as a community amenity contribution. of a Section 219 Covenant relating to funds offered by the applicant h) Machine shops warehousing The contribution is dedicated towards offsetting some of the long term to help develop a trail along Idlemore Roadonasthe a community amenity impacts that the increase in will zoning will have Billings neighbourhood Adoption of Bylaw No. 628 bededicated subject totowards the registration onsome title of contribution. The contribution is offsetting and community. ofthe a Section 219 Covenant relating to funds offered by the applicant long term impacts that the increase in to help develop a trail along Idlemore Road as a community amenity Further Information: contribution. The contribution is dedicated towards offsetting some of Copies of theimpacts bylaw(s), supporting written the long term that the increase in reports and any relevant background documentation may be viewed in the “Public Notices” Further Information: section of the District of Sooke website www.sooke.ca or inspected Copies of the bylaw(s), supporting written reports and any relevant at the District Municipal Offices at 2205 Otter Point Road, Sooke, BC, background documentation may be viewed in the “Public Notices” between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday (excluding section of the District of Sooke website www.sooke.ca or inspected statutory holidays), commencing December 30, 2015 to and including at the District Municipal Offices at 2205 Otter Point Road, Sooke, BC, January 11, 2016. zoning will have on the Billings neighbourhood and between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday (excluding community. statutory holidays), commencing December 30, 2015 to and including Public Input: January 11, 2016. zoning will have on the Billings neighbourhood and All persons who believe their interests in property are affected by the community. proposed bylaw(s) will be afforded an opportunity to be heard at the Public Input: Public Hearing on the matters contained in the proposed bylaw(s). All persons who believe their interests in property are affected by the Should you have any concerns or comments you wish to convey proposed bylaw(s) will be afforded an opportunity to be heard at the to Council, please submit in writing by fax to 250-642-0541, email Public Hearing on the matters contained in the proposed bylaw(s). bsprinkling@sooke.ca or in person to the Corporate Officer at the District Should you have any concerns or comments you wish to convey Municipal Offices no later than Monday, January 11th, 2016 at 4:00 pm. to Council, please submit in writing by fax to 250-642-0541, email Please be advised that submissions to Council will become part of the bsprinkling@sooke.ca or in person to the Corporate Officer at the District public record. Municipal Offices no later than Monday, January 11th, 2016 at 4:00 pm. NOTE: Councilthat cannot receivetofurther Please be advised submissions Councilinformation will becomeconcerning part of the this application after the Public Hearing has concluded. public record. th

NOTE: Council cannot receive further information concerning