The Local Weekly December 24, 2020

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Volume 18, Issue 51

WEEKLY COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Sunshine Coast, British Columbia • www.thelocalweekly.ca • Thursday, December 24, 2020 Gibsons Animator Festival Debut

Home For The Holidays

Page 12

COVID Update Page 3

Garden For Gibsons Page 6

SCRD Dam Safety Page 6

Christmas Wishes Pages 7 to 9

Holiday Jokes Page 10

Retro Toys Page 15

Look for this insert:

Home Hardware

Season’s Greetings from all our Staff!

w w w. t h e l o c a l we e k l y. c a

Please Be Safe and have a Healthy and Happy Holiday Season!

With restrictions in place and the spread of COVID-19 a growing concern in our community, our holiday celebrations may look and feel different this year.

Christmas spent in a bubble isn’t the present anyone wanted, but it is one we are all going to share. In a year full of challenges, we here at the Local are grateful to the community for all your support. From our home to yours, we wish you a safe and happy holiday. METRO CREATIVE PHOTO

DECEMBER 2020

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The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020

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The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020 3

Sunshine Coast COVID-19 Physician Task Force community update #41 Dear Fellow Sunshine Coast Residents: As we prepare for a holiday season unlike any we have seen in our lifetime, we want to thank all of you who have been doing your part to help prevent COVID-19 transmission in our community.

This has been an incredibly challenging year in so many ways for all of us, but it has also been very inspiring to see how our community has worked together to support and protect each other.

With the Pfizer vaccine approved by Health Canada last week and the Moderna vaccine looking like it will be approved soon, we are seeing hope for an end to this pandemic. That being said, it will still be many months before enough vaccines have

been administered to have a meaningful protective effect for the wider community. This means that, for the foreseeable future, it will remain important for all of us to continue to do our part by taking precautions and doing what we can to protect those around us.

At this point, it looks like we will not see any COVID vaccines on the Coast until the Moderna vaccine is approved, as the Pfizer vaccine has storage and transportation requirements that make it difficult to distribute to smaller communities. Once vaccines do start to roll out to smaller communities like ours, it will happen in a sequential fashion, with those at the highest risk receiving the vaccine first. We do not

expect vaccines to be available for average-risk people until the late spring or summer.

While both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines appear to have a safety profile comparable to flu and pneumonia vaccines, we don’t yet have enough data to know how long the vaccine-induced immunity will last or how soon we will be able to return to something like normal. We anticipate that we will continue to have some restrictions into next fall, but this will depend on our success with our current measures, as well as how many people in our community have been vaccinated.

In terms of our current local COVID-19 numbers, we continue to see positive cases

in the Respiratory Assessment Clinic, with an average of almost three positive cases per day over the past week.

These case numbers reflect exposures within the past 14 days, and it will be another two weeks before we know how many people have become infected after contact with our current cases. It is only at this point that we will know whether our current measures are having the desired effect.

Please do everything you can to make sure that the holiday season does not become a time when COVID-19 really explodes on the Coast. Do not have anyone outside of your immediate household in your home. Do not gather indoors or outdoors with friends, neighbours, or people outside your immediate household. Maintain at least six feet between yourself and those around you whenever possible. Wear a mask when you are in a public indoor space or when you cannot maintain social distancing. Wash your hands frequently and find creative ways to bring holiday cheer to those around you. We are in this together, and we will get through it!

There appears to be some confusion in the community as to what we mean when we report positive cases. As we are only testing people with symptoms, each positive case represents someone in our community who has devel-

oped COVID-19 symptoms and has subsequently tested positive for COVID-19. Data on testing in Canada would suggest that the false positive rate is extremely low, somewhere in the order of 0.01%, so if you have a positive test, we can be quite certain that you actually have COVID-19.

If you do develop COVID-19 symptoms, please contact the Respiratory Assessment Clinic by phone or text at 604-740-1252 or by email at coastrespclinic@gmail.com.

The clinic remains open seven days a week from 8:30am to 4:30pm.

It is vitally important that you stay home if you feel even the slightest bit unwell. If you develop any new or worsening COVID-19 symptoms, you must self-isolate and arrange for testing through the Respiratory Assessment Clinic.

Quick identification and isolation is the key to preventing one infection from becoming dozens.

School-aged children may be monitored at home for 24 hours if their symptoms are mild but should be tested if their symptoms persist over 24 hours or worsen. Symptoms that warrant testing for COVID-19 include: fever, chills, new cough (or worsening of a chronic cough), shortness of breath, sore throat, runny nose, loss of sense of taste or smell, headache, fatigue, diarrhea, loss of

SUNSHINE COAST FERRY SCHEDULE

The BC Centre for Disease Control released the latest local COVID-19 numbers, and they show 20 confirmed cases between Dec. 6-12 on the Lower Sunshine Coast. BCCDC MAP

COVID-19 restart spending on the Coast Coast local governments still have questions as they begin allocating their Federal/Provincial COVID-19 Restart funding.

On Dec. 16, Sechelt council authorized spending $81,600 of its over $2.5 million in restart money. Funding was approved to offset reduced rental income from municipal facilities and on computer equipment to help its employees work from home.

Where and when the remainder will be spent is to be determined. Council and staff will be seeking clarification on grant parameters. Councillor Brenda Rowe would like to start a conversation around using the money to support those most vulnerable in the community. Rowe suggested purchasing land for affordable housing, noting that other funding options are available for construction if the municipality owned land to locate projects on.

Director of Finance David Douglas stated that at this point, direction regarding restart funding is that use is to be for operational and limited capital projects. He said that the Province has not really “opened the door” for

purchases like buying land for future uses. Councillor Matt McLean reminded all that the funds are still “taxpayers’ dollars.” He wants to see municipalities focus on core services and funding infrastructure deficits.

Sechelt is also looking to make the most of money available under the municipal restart and the tourism community support by balancing its project “wishlists” between the two funds. District staff have submitted requests in hopes of receiving up to $1 million from the province’s tourism stream.

One item not included in that submission that Councillor Alton Toth suggests could be purchased with restart money is a water bottle refilling station. He believes the station would be a welcome addition once District public events can again be hosted and at gatherings like the Sechelt Farmers Market.

Toth asked about the use of restart funds to pay consultants to undertake long term planning projects. He noted that with the impacts of COVID-19, staff priorities had been shifted to deal with issues related to the pandem-

ic. This has taken resources away from less urgent but still important work. He also asked about using the municipal restart grant for home energy or accessibility retrofit programs for lower-income residents. Douglas said that any restart money allocated by the municipality to others must go to non-profit organizations.

The SCRD began planning to spend its $521,000 of local government restart funding at its Dec. 17 infrastructure services committee meeting. The committee recommended that staff proposals on allocating that money be part of Round 1 budget discussions, slated to begin Feb. 1. The committee also wants further clarification from the Province on the uses and timing for spending its grant.

SCRD transit services will be receiving around $800,000 from the Province to offset operational impacts caused by the pandemic. This is from a separate stream of restart funding being allocated to BC Transit for operations, including those on the Coast.

Connie Jordison

appetite, nausea and vomiting, and/or muscle aches.

If you are awaiting assessment or test results, you must self-isolate at home, ideally in a separate space where you can limit contact with other members of your household. This means staying home from work, school, and all other activities until you have tested negative and your symptoms have resolved. If you test positive for COVID-19, you will have to continue self-isolating until you are cleared by Public Health.

If you have more severe symptoms and believe you may need to be admitted to hospital, please go to the Sechelt Hospital Emergency Department. If you need an ambulance, please call 911. Please remember that the Emergency Department remains open and safe for anyone with a medical emergency.

Keep well, wash your hands, keep your distance or wear a mask, stay local, and please keep doing everything you can to keep our community safe! We wish you all a safe and happy holiday season, and peace, joy and good health for the coming year!

The Sunshine Coast COVID Physician Task Force Dr Jennifer Baxter Dr Ted Krickan Dr Herman Mentz Dr Brian Nelson Dr Daren Spithoff

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The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020

Letters to the Editor – Opinions Suckers (Re: “Trumpies,” Letters, the Local, Dec. 17) The letter by Elizabeth McNeil of Sechelt, where she wonders, “…how so many people can fall for this” (referring to the recent election in the USA that saw so many voting for Trump), spurred me also to wonder how this could have happened. So, I put my mind to try to find a plausible explanation, and after much thought, I offer my conclusions to Elizabeth here.

P.T. Barnum, who was the king of the American bigtop circuses, in replying to a query about how he was so successful in his business, said, “There’s a sucker born every minute.” Not very nice, but, to him, it was true.

He certainly took advantage and made lots of cash from those “suckers.”

Well, now, let’s look at the math. If you use the eligible voters in the 2020 US election to be born from 1930 to 2002 (the last year you would have to be born to vote in 2020), there are 72 years of “suckers” born in the US that voted in this last election. That is a total of 37,843,200 minutes, equalling the same number of “suckers” over that time (you do the math if you want).

Trump took about 74 million votes in this past election. After one subtracts the “suckers” from that figure, it leaves 36,156,800 Trump voters who were arguably

not “suckers.” From what I see and hear in the news, the 36 million-plus will be the number of pardon-seekers that will now come forward just before Trump is forcibly ejected from the White House. So, dear Elizabeth, that’s how I figure how and why so many Americans voted for this modern-day P.T. Barnum.

Michael Storr, Gibsons

God must be saying Argh!

(Re: “Argh!” Letters, the Local, Dec. 17) First, let me identify myself. I am a Christian who has worked for MSF (Medecins Sans Frontier/ Doctors Without Borders), the Red Cross and other NGOs for 10 years. So, I am not pointing a finger at any religion or person of faith. I follow what Bishop Spong has said: “I honour my tradition, I walk through my tradition, but I don’t think my tradition defines God; I think it only points me to God.” At present, I faithfully attend Sunday services at St. Hilda’s on Zoom. Why? Because I care for my fellow humans just as Jesus has asked us to do. Did he not say to love thy neighbour as thyself?

So, why join with many others at this time? Why risk transmitting COVID-19 to our neighbours? You can be just as neighbourly by chatting on Zoom. You can worship just as sincerely on Zoom.

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So, I agree that God must be saying “Argh” to see such disregard for HIS second most important request.

Michele Beaudry, Sechelt

A slippery slope (Re: “COVID misinformation,” Letters, the Local, Dec. 10) It was with some alarm that I read Michael Maser’s letter. It’s one thing to gently eavesdrop on fellow coffee drinkers but very nasty when declaring their alternative points of view as “vile theories,” and chatting in a coffee shop is hardly public broadcasting.

He also snitched on them for not wearing masks!

Does he drink his coffee through a straw in his? No place is safe with the likes of Mr. Maser snooping around.

And it looks like free speech has been re-named “misinformation.” Folks, it’s a slippery slope.

P. McGarry, Gibsons

and death. This lack of respect and instilling fear is disrespectful and does not support our way of life in this community.

Let’s pull together. We all share the goal of living in a peaceful and safe place. We encourage you to follow the laws today for many better tomorrows ahead, and when out and about in our community, please be respectful.

Gibsons & District Chamber of Commerce

Double tree standard It seems that the Town of Gibsons doesn’t think that their tree bylaw means anything. Once again, it’s a bylaw that they will enforce but not follow.

The Town has cut down all the beautiful boulevard trees around the geothermal pump house and the tennis courts in the Parkland subdivision.

David Hayward, Gibsons

Marine errors I wish to point out two glaring marine errors in the Dec.17 issue of the Local.

First, the picture of the MV Langdale Queen is shown proceeding forward, as indicated by its wake, not in the aft direction as reported.

And secondly, the article about the Persephone reports it as a “wooden vessel,” but it is actually a steel vessel.

Gordon Catherwood, Gibsons

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Letters to the Editor should be sent by e-mail to editor@thelocalweekly.ca. The deadline is Monday at 10am for that week’s paper. Generally, letters should not exceed 300 words. And all letters must be signed, include the writer’s community of residence and (not for publication) telephone number. Letters may be edited for a variety of reasons.

Weekly Cartoon

Please respect our local businesses Local businesses are mandated to comply with the BC Public Health Officer’s orders that are in place to keep us safe when interacting with others in the community. This applies to all businesses and residences, regardless of the circumstance – retail stores, restaurants, business services, public meetings, and private family and/or friend gatherings.

The BC Public Health Office’s orders are the LAW. Local businesses want to serve their customers in a safe, no-risk way while ensuring that they are legally compliant. This includes the wearing of masks, frequent sanitization of hands and spaces and for everyone to MAINTAIN their DISTANCE. The Gibsons Chamber has recently completed a survey of its members and found that there have been many instances of confrontations with local business owners and their staff. Some people are not complying with the above laws, and in their interactions, they create risk, stress and even fear among our business owners and their staff, and this type of behaviour is just plain disrespectful.

Regardless of your views on immunization and the laws imposed during this pandemic, the tragedies all around us are very real – sickness, hospitalizations

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Editorial Opinion Reflections from an elder in isolation As an older male, I’m in the population facing the highest risk from COVID-19, but my reflections on this pandemic go beyond my own life and death. Difficult as it is now, this pandemic will subside, and we’ll be able to think about how to move forward.

This is a challenge for all people. I’ve always been struck by science-fiction movies in which alien invaders arrive and begin killing humans. Governments worldwide unite against a common enemy as ethnic, religious, economic and political differences fall away. Maybe COVID-19 is the alien invader that could unite our species.

My parents married during the Great Depression. Those were difficult times, but work, family and community got them through. “You have to work hard for the necessities in life, but don’t run after money as if having a new car, a big house or fancy clothes makes you a better or more important person,” they often said. Money is not the goal of existence; the goal is a life well-lived.

We’ve had multiple calls to change our ways because the sum of human activity has become toxic to the planet’s life-support systems. But we’re caught in political and economic systems that render environmentalists as “special interests” with impossible agendas.

Rachel Carson’s 1962 book “Silent Spring” documented the ecological impacts of pesticides like DDT. It appeared to be a powerful tool to control insect pests, but we didn’t understand its full implications.

In 1992, more than half of living Nobel laureates joined more than 1,600 senior scientists from 71 countries to sign the World Scientists’ Warning to Humanity. “Human beings and the natural world are on a collision course… Fundamental changes are urgent if we are to avoid the collision our present course will bring about,” it stated. Humanity did not act.

Twenty-five years later, more than 16,000 scientists signed a second warning, saying the planet’s state has grown worse and we must

act with urgency. Still little or no action.

In 2018, an Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report warned that a rise of more than 1.5 C above pre-industrial temperatures by 2100 would make it difficult or impossible to adapt to and cope with climate chaos. We’re now heading toward 3 to 5 C warming! You’d think that would be big news.

But shortly after the report came out, Canada legalized cannabis, and that pushed aside news of the possible collapse of our species.

Can we relearn what humanity has known since our beginnings, that we live in a complex web of relationships in which our very survival depends on clean air, water and soil and biological diversity? Or will we celebrate the passing of the pandemic with an orgy of consumption and a drive to get back to the way things were before? In this disaster lies an opportunity to reflect and change direction in the hope that if we do, nature will be generous.

David Suzuki

EK

S

The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020 5

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The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020

Beamish frustrated with BC Housing

Community garden proposed for Gibsons

Discussions on dissatisfaction with the level of communication from BC Housing (BCH) with Gibson council on supportive housing and emergency shelter efforts are underway. At its Dec. 15 meeting, council asked Mayor Bill Beamish to set up a meeting and include representatives of organizations previously partnered with the Town on these services.

Council’s frustration stems from over four months of efforts to get updates on the School Road supportive housing project. There is also concern over the lack of cold weather emergency shelter services in Gibsons for those in need.

A Dec. 15 email from BCH’s Director of Regional Development, Naomi Brunemeyer, was a late addition to that night’s council meeting agenda. It states that the 40unit School Road supportive housing project “is on track to open in February 2021.”

This is over six months later than the Fall 2020 estimate

An area near the rear of the Gibsons Tim Hortons restaurant is poised to be redeveloped into a community garden. A proposal by Summerhill Fine Homes and Salish Soils to install a garden received a recommendation at the Town’s Dec. 15 committee of the whole meeting.

The recommendation requires council endorsement and is slated to be considered at its next meeting on Jan. 5.

The project will see raised garden beds, fruit trees and a garden shed added to the

BCH initially provided to the community.

Beamish indicated that responses from BCH had been delayed. He noted that these have only been sent once the Town has involved the local Member of the Legislative Assembly in its queries to BCH. Beamish said, “this does not bode well for the future operation of the programs.”

He also noted that BCH initially challenged the Town’s choice to appoint Councillor Aleria Ladwig to the School Road project’s community advisory committee. After Beamish asserted this council’s decision, BCH capitulated, allowing Ladwig’s appointment to stand. To date, BCH has not established the committee. A commitment to do so was included in the most recent email to the Town from Brunemeyer.

Along with questions about the new supportive housing facility, Gibsons council has concerns with the lack of an emergency cold weather shelter in the Town. In her

email, Brunemeyer wrote, “While there are (emergency shelter) spaces available, unfortunately, there are not enough non‐profit staff available, despite available funding, to provide additional shelter support services on the Coast right now. To address this shortage, we have booked rooms at the Blue Sky Hotel in Sechelt. Beginning Monday, Dec. 14, some guests from the emergency shelter in Sechelt will be referred to the hotel.”

Councillor David Croal noted that having spaces in Sechelt may not work for individuals in Gibsons who find themselves in need of overnight shelter. He pointed to a lack of public transportation options, especially in the late evening hours.

In closing the debate related to BCHs treatment of the Town as a partner, Councillor Aleria Ladwig stated that she had never seen such a continued lack of transparency and respect from another level of government. Connie Jordison

public boulevard on the west side of 675 Industrial Way, which adjoins Seamount Way. In addition, a gravel path that will connect to Town walking trails will be installed.

The committee members said they liked the idea of beautifying the area and producing local food on the site.

One concern the committee identified was the potential for the fruit trees to become a bear attractant. Town Director of Infrastructure Services, Dave Newman, agreed to include the subject of bears and

public safety in discussions with the sponsors should the project be endorsed by council.

Mayor Bill Beamish suggested that this initiative could be considered a pilot project. He asked that information signage be included at the site to let the public know about the cooperation between the Town and the proponents on the project.

The sign could also be used to promote the potential for this type of project in other areas.

Connie Jordison

Rendering of the Summerhill Fine Homes & Salish Soils Community Garden Proposal.

KVW ARCHITECTURAL MODELLING PHOTOS

North Lake logging questions answered

SCRD dam safety report calls for upgrades

BC Timber Sales (BCTS) and Tsain-Ko Development Corporation met online with Egmont community members on Dec. 15 to discuss their North Lake partnership logging blocks. About two dozen members of the public were part of the session.

The blocks are part of the 75,000 cubic metres of the non-replaceable timber harvest award under the shíshálh Nation Foundation Agreement. Discussions with the community about the proposed logging of the blocks have been underway for over a year. During the session, BCTS Woodlands Manager for the Chinook Region, Tom Johnson, stated that work on the licence area is anticipated to begin in March 2021.

A number of session attendee questions focused on area road safety. It was noted that private residences and the Klein Lake campground are

SCRD board members, in festive finery, learned that about $2 million in upgrades are needed at the region’s four dams. A consultant’s safety report on the structures was reviewed at the online infrastructure committee meeting on Dec. 17.

The report was commissioned to help bring the SCRD into compliance with provincial safety requirements for its two dams on McNeil Lake and its larger structures on Chapman and Edwards lakes. Vincent Cormier and David Daw of consulting firm WSP Canada presented an overview, focusing on safety issues, operations and maintenance requirements and emergency response procedures.

The dams on Chapman and Edwards lakes both need their walkway platforms raised by about a metre so that they can be accessed during flood conditions. Both also require the installation of upstream

accessed by the North Lake Fire Service Road. Attendees asked about placing restrictions on the use of that road by the logging contractor. It was suggested that this could reduce the potential for conflicts between logging trucks and day-to-day traffic.

Johnson explained that no hauling of logs on that road would be permitted on weekends between the May and September holiday weekends, nor would hauling be allowed on that route during July or August. He noted that the holders of timber harvest licences have the right to use Forest Service roads. Johnson pointed out that the harvesting contractor will be constructing a spur road that will take logging traffic off a large portion of North Lake Road.

Other concerns expressed related to the setback of logging operations from existing roads. A resident and a mem-

ber of the area’s volunteer fire department noted that logging may disturb the roots system and stability of trees near roads. With the high winds and volumes of rain received in the area during winter, disturbed trees can be blown over. This often results in hydro outages and blocked roads. Johnson acknowledged these concerns and explained that the parameters of the setbacks were “adequate” to protect existing infrastructure.

Questions related to the use of local logging contractors were also asked. Tsain-Ko General Manager of Forestry, Jordan Louie, noted that companies from the Coast had been involved in the development of the area harvesting plan. The logging contracts will be posted for public bid

by BCTS. Louie said that TsainKo is interested in “giving the project local flavour as much as we can.” Connie Jordison

debris booms to protect the structures and vegetation control to improve accessibility.

Security upgrades, including remote surveillance systems as well as fencing and gating to restrict public access, were recommended for both sites by the consultants.

The cost estimate for work at Chapman and Edwards lakes is about $1.4 million.

Over $300,000 of that figure is forecast to be needed to pay for helicopter access to the sites.

Just under $600,000 in improvements have been recommended for the two dams on McNeil Lake near Pender Harbour. These facilities also need walkway improvements and vegetation control. The consultants reported that upgrading is needed for the “stop log” system that controls the water flow at the main McNeil Lake dam. More control over public access to the sites and public vehicle parking at the

New Sechelt Legion location gets its first reading Bylaw amendments to enable the Sechelt Legion to move to a site on Inlet Avenue received first reading at the Dec. 16 council meeting.

Those changes will be referred to impacted agencies and the advisory planning commission.

If adopted, the amendments will change the property’s use to allow for a neighbourhood pub and reduce the onsite parking requirements.

The proposed expansion of the building at the site will leave room for 11 parking stalls. With 65 seats in the

planned pub/restaurant, existing District rules would require 30 to 35 spaces.

“Parking has been a long-standing conversation in the community regarding the downtown,” said Sechelt’s Director of Planning and Development, Andrew Allen. He

noted that the District’s existing parking requirements have not been reviewed for over 30 years and that there is a need for a comprehensive parking study for the area. He said that the plan for fewer spaces in the Legion’s proposal is consistent with park-

Renderings of the new Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 140 site at 5546 Inlet Avenue. DISTRICT OF SECHELT PHOTOS

ing allocations for similar facilities in other communities.

Increasing use of alternative transportation means – like cycling, walking and transit – is reducing the demand for vehicle parking spaces. Allan also pointed out that after 5pm, Sechelt’s downtown usually has ample numbers of street parking spaces available.

Council will receive the referral agencies’ comments in advance of giving the bylaw further readings and scheduling a public hearing on the proposed changes.

Allen noted that there would also be a separate public process related to the relocation of the liquor licence for the facility.

Connie Jordison

entrance to the trail leading to the dams was recommended. The parking area, just off Highway 101, is frequently filled up with the vehicles of people hiking in the area. To ensure that there is access for staff responding to emergencies at the dams, the trailhead and a portion of the parking area needs to have “No Public Parking” signage.

The committee agreed with staff’s recommendation that the upgrading program for the four dams be split over two years. It is proposed that about $400,000 in design work and permitting be considered in the 2021 budget.

The construction phase for the improvements is to be considered for 2022.

Connie Jordison

Struck by Rocks On Dec. 18, at approximately 7:30pm, multiple vehicles were struck by large rocks thrown by a male in the 5400 block of Matukwum Lane and Sunshine Coast Highway in Sechelt. A 49-year-old Sechelt male was arrested by police and will be facing charges of Mischief over $5,000.

“Thankfully, the drivers of these vehicles were able to steer to safety and did not collide with any other cars. It was dark out, and this is a busy section of the highway. There could have been tragic consequences,” said Cst. Karen Whitby.

Police have spoken to three people whose cars were damaged that night. If anyone else was victimized or has information, please call the RCMP at 604-8852266, File 2020-8708 relates. Submitted by RCMP

The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020 7

Local CHRISTMAS WISHES!

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Thanks for choosing us. See you soon!

Thank You for Your Support throughout the Past Year!

Wishing You and Yours the Joy and Laughter of the Season and a Healthy, Happy and Prosperous 2021! ~ Tony ~ “From our family to your family”

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Heather and Peter would like to thank all our amazing staff and customers, your support means the world to us.

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The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020

Local CHRISTMAS WISHES!

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Ways to reduce holiday stress In an ordinary year, the holidays can be stressful.

This year, the pandemic means smaller family gatherings, fewer special events for work or community groups, and more online shopping than ever. It also means a new kind of stress, with questions about how to celebrate and Questions? email us at community.relations@griegseafood.com griegseafoodcanada.com stay safe and grief for not Questions? email us at community.relations@griegseafood.com griegseafoodcanada.com being near all our loved ones – all while trying to keep ourselves occupied after months of social distancing.

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1. Focus on outcomes you can control – like how you feel about an event or situation. Focus on your own fun and the love you want to share. Other people’s responses are beyond your control.

2. Don’t lose all sense of reason. Sure, Christmas comes but once a year. But that doesn’t mean you need to bake everything in grandma’s recipe book or purchase your kids’ entire list.

3. Leave a margin. It can be tempting to pack our days full to distract ourselves from the hard things. But leave yourself some breathing room.

You’ll feel more human, and your family will thank you.

4. Look for meaning. Hav-

ing a sense of meaning in life is important. For those struggling to find purpose, it may help if you give to others. Do something nice for someone else, such as a neighbour, or donate to a charity or cause you believe in.

5. Ask for help. If, despite your best efforts, you still feel sad, anxious or overwhelmed, reach out to your doctor for help. The holiday season is a time when emotion comes to the forefront, and that can be difficult.

Remember to look after yourself as you enjoy spending time with the lucky ones in your bubble. You deserve to enjoy this time of year, not simply endure it.

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‘Tis the Season to Support Local Charities!

This year has been challenging in many ways, and the hardest affected are those who are the most vulnerable.

Decking the halls with good cheer and holiday spirit is the Westland Insurance Sechelt team, who stepped up to the plate and provided $100 in a bulk grocery donation to the Sechelt Food Bank, with Westland adding in an additional $200 in a cash donation as part of the company’s 40th anniversary 40 weeks of giving celebration.

Every year the office contributes to a local charity in need for the holiday season.

This year, the Westland Sechelt team became aware of the struggles facing their local food bank. With an already large homeless population, and the loss of employment due to COIVD-19, the Sechelt Food Bank is experiencing a considerable strain on the collection and distribution of food to those in need throughout their community.

If you’d like to contribute at this time, The Sechelt Food Bank prefers to collect cash donations so they can better manage the needs of those who they support.

Food donations are still welcome, with bulk purchases of protein items like tuna, salmon, and peanut butter still being accepted.

To learn more about the Food Bank and to donate, please visit https://www.sccss.ca/.

Westland Insurance Sechelt employee, Christa Holowachuk presenting the $200 donation to Kat Roussos, Sechelt Food Bank’s Practicum Student, while Volunteer, Bobbi looks on. Kat received the cheque on behalf of Program Manager, Carey Rumba. ®

10

The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020

Real Estate Market Minute

Tony Browton RE/MAX City Realty

HOLIDAY JOKES Normally in December, I put out a holiday video with some of my associates where we tell a bunch on holiday “Dad Jokes.” I then publish them in my Christmas article so Dads (and Mums) all over the Coast can enjoy the magic

of eye-rolling and head-shaking with their family. COVID restrictions put a damper on the video this year, but here are the jokes for your reading pleasure.

Hopefully, you can bring a laugh to someone you know delivering these gems this holiday season.

• Why did Santa’s helper see a therapist? Because he had low elf-esteem.

• What do you call a snowman with a six-pack? An abdominal snowman.

• How much did Santa pay for his sleigh? Nothing. It was on the house.

• How did the ornament get addicted to Christmas?

He was hooked on trees his whole life.

• Why did the Grinch go to the liquor store? He was searching for some holiday spirit.

• What do you call a bankrupt Santa? Saint Nickel-less.

• Why do Christmas trees like the past so much? Because the present’s beneath them.

• Where do Santa’s reindeer stop for coffee? Star-bucks.

• What do you get when you cross a snowman with a vampire? Frostbite.

• What kind of motorbike does Santa ride? A Holly Davidson!

• Who delivers Christmas presents to sharks? Santa Jaws.

• What’s Santa Claus’s favourite type of potato chip? Crisp Pringles.

• Why are Christmas trees so bad at sewing? They always

drop their needles.

• Who is Santa’s favourite singer? Elf-is Presley.

• Why don’t reindeer like picnics? Because of all their antlures.

• What do elves post on social media? Elf-ies.

• What’s green, covered in tinsel and goes ‘ribbet ribbet’?

A mistle-toad.

• What do you call a kid who doesn’t believe in Santa? A rebel without a Claus.

• How does Santa take photos? With a Pole-aroid camera, of course.

• Why doesn’t Santa go to the hospital? He has private elf care.

• What is the difference be-

tween snowmen and snowwomen? Snowballs.

• What do you call a Santa living at the South Pole? A lost Clause.

• What do you call all the wrapping paper leftover from opening presents? A ChristMESS. • Who is Santa’s favourite pop-star? Beyon-sleigh.

• How Does Darth Vader know what you are getting for Christmas? He can feel your presents.

Tony Browton is an award-winning realtor who lives and works on BC’s Sunshine Coast.

His weekly blog can be found here http://www.true bluerealty.ca/blog.

SAR out of Polar Bear Swim The Fill the Boot drive went amazingly well this year, as the generosity of Sunshine Coast residents showed itself once again. However, there will not be search and rescue (SAR 14) support of the Polar Bear Swim at Armours Beach this New Year’s Day. First responder boots took in $26,842.98 this year, with RCM SAR Stations 12, 14, and 61, Land SAR, and firefighters from Gibsons to Egmont taking part. This amount was more than ever before and shows the Christmas spirit is alive and well in this most unusual of years. In Gibsons, SAR 14 took in over $2,000 more than last year. It’s clear that, even from our bubbles, we want to help those who may be in need this year.

SAR 14 members were

happy to be involved for the Elves Club, but we are unable to support the Armours Beach Polar Bear Swim this New Year’s Day. Because of the COVID-19 restrictions on gatherings, we will not be providing life-saving rescue services, hot chocolate, or completion certificates. As always, if you do decide to venture into or onto the ocean on Jan. 1 or any other day, be safe. We wish you all the best for 2021! Submitted by SAR 14

Kenan MacKenzie (left), Mayor Bill Beamish (centre), and the Salvation Army’s Darrell Pilgrim help out at Gibson’s “drivethru” community Christmas dinner on Dec. 20. The Gibsons Legion served at the event site. Volunteers, including individuals from Elphinstone Secondary School, the Salvation Army and area churches, handed out about 270 meals. “Santa” Beamish and his helpers distributed over 40 gifts to youngsters who attended. Guests were served from throughout the Coast, including residents of Vancouver Coastal Health’s supportive housing complex in Sechelt. PHOTO SUBMITTED

Happy Holidays to All!!

HOLIDAY SEASON HOURS:

OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED: Thursday, December 24th, Friday, December 25th, 2020 and Friday, January 1st, 2021 OFFICE WILL RE-OPEN: Monday, December 28, 2020

PLEASE STAY SAFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TO PROTECT THE ONES YOU LOVE.

Regular Thursday Paper Delivery: December 24th and 31st, 2020 Next Delivery: January 7, 2021 #213-5710 Teredo Street, Sechelt phone: 604-885-3134 thelocalweekly.ca Classifieds: admin@thelocalweekly.ca Sales: sales@thelocalweekly.ca

This month, I would like to highlight our Government’s 2020 Fall Economic Statement, detailing our strong fiscal position, our plans to protect and support Canadian workers, families, and businesses during the pandemic and lay the roadwork for our post-pandemic economic recovery. Among many other things, this plan commits to: Continuing the Fight Against COVID-19 • A suite of new investments in rapid testing, contact tracing, and $500 million in procurement of personal protec-

tive equipment.

• $1 billion for a new LongTerm Care Fund to help provinces protect people in longterm care now and in the years to come.

Increasing Support for Workers & Businesses • Supporting small businesses and non-profits by increasing the maximum rate of the Wage Subsidy to 75 percent, extending the Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support, and expanding the Canada Emergency Business Account by another $20,000 in no-interest loans.

• Supporting the hardest-hit industries, such as in tourism, arts, and culture by introducing new supports including the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program and $181 million for Canadian Heritage and the Canada Council for the Arts.

Support for Families & Children • A one-time top-up of $1,200 in 2021 for each child under the age of six and $600 for children over six with the Canada Child Benefit to help with increased costs for parents.

Building Back Better: Supporting Canada’s Long-Term Recovery • Committing $100 billion in economic stimulus, which will be implemented over three years.

• Initial investments into a National Pharmacare Program and a Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care System.

• Addressing the housing crisis by increasing the First Time Home Buyer’s Incentive and committing $12 billion to double affordable rental housing support.

Many traditions and events usually fill the calendar this time of year. For members of RCMSAR 12, this often means a crew Christmas party, sailpast in Porpoise Bay, the New Year’s Day Polar Swim in Davis Bay, and the Elves’ Club Crash the Coast fundraiser.

While some events have been cancelled or moved online, it was such a joy to see our first responders standing at their posts in the beautiful sunshine for Crash the Coast.

It looked a little different, but the community spirit and generosity was as strong as ever. Thank you to the members of RCMSAR Stations 12 Halfmoon Bay, 14 Gibsons, and 61 Pender Harbour and the Sunshine Coast Search and Rescue land SAR team

for supporting an amazing cause.

While the latest restrictions have paused any in-person training, our crews are still on call 24/7 should you need us in an emergency.

We are finding new ways to keep our skills current with online platforms – learning and practicing knots and towing on Zoom is a new challenge for all of us! But the laughter and camaraderie remain the same as we dream of being on the water again training.

The winter months are usually full of on-the-water training, often in the dark, usually in the cold, always challenging our skills and keeping safety as our number one priority. As 2020 has seen people flock to the outdoors like seagulls to French fries, we want to remind our readers to take extra precautions while adventuring by land or sea.

Maintenance and preven-

tion are key to enjoying safe year-round boating and other outdoor recreation pursuits. Take a good inventory and inspection of your safety equipment, critical systems (e.g. batteries, engines, hull integrity, running rigging), and personal gear, especially lifesaving devices like PFDs (personal floatation devices) or avalanche beacons.

Be overprepared for the elements. Pack lots of layers, monitor the weather carefully and plan your trip accordingly. Always file a trip plan with a responsible person.

And ask yourself, do you have the right gear and abilities for the activity and the conditions? If not, it’s not too late to send your wish list to Santa or set some goals for 2021!

Consider taking courses in first aid, navigation, backcountry safety, or avalanche training. Challenge yourself safely and enjoy the rewards outdoor winter recreation will bring!

our students, staff and community that expects equity, inclusion and an affirmation of anti-racism.” We are happy to say that this work has been meaningful to all of us, and we are excited to present it to the board and the public at an upcoming board meeting.

We know that as a board, we are responsible for providing an education system that is a safe, welcoming environment free from racism, discrimination, harassment, and violence and that is inclusive and affirming for all students, staff and community members. We strive to do this in our schools and with each other – daily!

We can all take our own affirmations, whatever they may be. They are statements that we create in order to challenge and overcome negative thoughts. By choosing affirmations for ourselves, our lives become less stressful, brighter and forward moving. By speaking our own affirmations to ourselves, our family and our friends, we can become more positive and show kindness for all. Take some time over the

holidays to decide upon the affirmations that mean the most to you – the words that will lift you up! They can be commitments to beliefs and ways of knowing, statements, things that make you happy, goals or things that you tell yourself or your children when you start your day. Simple words said aloud often have the biggest impact, especially when we base them around kindness. By being kind to ourselves and others, we can open up so many possibilities and turn around even the worst of days. I will be present in every moment, I will be kind, I am enough, You are so beautiful, Today is a great day! These are some of the simplest ones and ones that will make anyone smile.

As the year ends, commit to these chosen affirmations daily. Share them with people around you. We could all use some positive affirmations. As Maya Angelou once said, “Try to be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.” This has been a hard year, but together we are strong, we are brave, we are kind, we are School District 46.

Education Matters Tonya Ste. Marie

Trustee, School District #46 School Board

“The Board of School District 46 affirms its commitment to Indigenous Peoples and Reconciliation by building relationships and deepening understanding of Indigenous history, worldviews, and ways of knowing.” These words are the affirmation that our district has committed to in our current strategic plan. As the year draws to a close, we take some time to reflect on the ways in which we work and play together in a positive, respectful, caring and safe environment.

This year, our board developed an ad hoc committee with the terms of reference stating,” The committee shall develop a policy outlining the board’s commitment to creating a safe, welcoming, respectful, inclusive and affirming environment for all individuals. This policy will enable the board to create and promote a vision among

The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020 11

• Green initiatives, including $5,000 grants for homeowners to conduct energy assessments and make energy-efficient improvements, and nature-based climate action, including $3 billion to plant two billion trees and $631 million to restore degraded ecosystems, protect wildlife, and improve resource management practices.

• Creating a new Regional Development Agency for British Columbia to support

our unique and diversified economy.

Finally, I would like to introduce our new Constituency Assistant for the Sunshine Coast, Donna Bell. Donna lives in Sechelt and has been an active member of the community. She has a passion for building community and working with people, and we are so thrilled to have her join the team.

I wish you and your family all the best during this hol-

iday season. With vaccinations taking place, and over 410,000 doses arriving by the end of 2020, the light is at the end of the tunnel. As we turn the page on a challenging year, we can look forward with hope and optimism for a better new year.

Please reach out to us: 6367 Bruce Street, West Vancouver, V7W2G5 604-913-2660 Patrick.Weiler@parl.gc.ca. Check our website for updates: www.patrickweiler.ca

Tip of the Week: Merry Christmas! I hope you were able to enjoy the spectacle of Jupiter and Saturn, dubbed the ‘Christmas Star’ in exact conjunction on December 21st, an event that only occurs about every 800 years! Such wondrous moments aside, more importantly, a new era has officially begun. Based on the conjunctions of Jupiter and Saturn occurring in Air Element Signs, we have entered a whole new period of human evolution. The last time such a new era began was July 17, 1802 when these two gas giants, symbolic of society and larger social, economic, and political trends, conjoined. This began an era emphasizing the Earth Element, which is symbolic of science, engineering, construction, and material values in general.

Take a moment to reflect on how this applies to the past 220 years. Now, the emphasis on Air Element signs centers on communications, relationships, social politics, law, justice, rights, and freedoms. For now, the combined influences of the Solar Eclipse, Winter Solstice and this historic conjunction will manifest as measurable change, personally and collectively.

Aries (Mar. 21-Apr. 19) Circumstances of late, which are actually synchronicities are directing your focus to the future more than ever. Financial considerations are playing an important role, yet things are not as settled there as you would like. To this end, you are much more sober and serious. Still, you are enthusiastic about the prospects and are eager to dive-in and are willing to take a few calculated risks.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) You are keen to step back and carefully consider the future. Of course, it is not all in your control, yet you are determined to do what you can. But, you want to do your homework first. Actually, you have probably been doing some research for the past few weeks already.

Among other things, you have probably been gearing up and building your resolve to go big.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) You have entered the last stages of a deep process of change. The deeper metamorphosis has occurred and now a few more minor or follow-up cycles to go and you will be through.

These next phases will continue until about January 10. Among other things, you have learned that you cannot please all the people all the time and you may notice that you are done trying with certain people.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) A new and powerful cycle of change has begun. It may well include financial matters. Becoming thriftier to make every dollar count is likely, or at least to carefully consider where you can best direct your money. This cycle will take on something of a revolutionary tone by mid-January, albeit guided by sober and practical evaluations.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23) Despite the festive season, you are happy to stay busy and to mix business with pleasure, if necessary.

There is also a creative perk inspiring your focus.

The goal is to increase your audience somehow. This includes deepening your commitments, especially to projects that you have yet to finish and other ones that have been waiting their turn.

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sept. 22) You are in a creative yet sober mood. You want results and returns for your efforts. A learning curve is implied. While the going, in this regard, may not be fast, inventiveness and originality are highlighted. There is also an emphasis on nature.

But it asks for moderation, so avoid risky ventures. Do look to the future and orient your focus accordingly, yet advance with prudence for now.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) You have all but broken through the dark night that has tested your courage and resolve. Like an early morning dawn, you can see and feel the light of the new day, yet it may take a bit to get your momentum going.

Economic uncertainties are featured as you focus to touch ground but find yourself slipping. But the fault is unlikely yours given the times.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Some definite shifts close

to home have begun. These could be manifesting as a mixed blessing. On one hand, they are pointing to the need to confront any fears may be blocking your resolve to commit and make the efforts necessary to succeed. On the other hand, a complex wave of confidence is washing in reminding you that by successfully directing your will you will prevail.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Combining all the recent events, you have been catapulted into an array of activities, interests, and intrigues. The new cycle will keep you quite busy in terms of communication exchanges and obtaining new knowledge. In some regards, your perspectives are undergoing some radical shifts, but it may take until later in February before they really get ignited.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) With your ruling planet, Saturn, now in Aquarius, you especially will notice that you have entered a new cycle of experience. It will have the effect of directing your attention to the future and perhaps especially regarding financial interests.

Yet, given the wild bull market, you may feel cautious about how to proceed. To this end, you will likely and are probably wise to seek counsel.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Happy to let the world get going before you engage, you will find yourself happy behind the scenes. Yet, expansion is on your mind and you do want to increase your outreach. Increasing and strengthening your friend and/or contact network is indicated. Budding new friendships are likely and these will include association with people interested in the finer details of the big picture.

Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) The time has come to enter a new phase of work and development. However, rather than start new projects, your better bet is to continue with those already begun. Even those that have been stored away in the basement can be brought forward. Be patient with the progress on the larger of these, however. So, focus on all the loose ends that are ready to be finished or repurposed. michael@sunstarastrology.com

12

The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020

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Due to current BC health orders, please contact local event coordinators to confirm events.

Thursday, December 24 • “Sea of Light” at Gibsons Marina, 30,000 bulbs plus the Coast’s tallest Christmas tree

• Art Exhibition: Helen Platt and David Emerson Hall (extended to Dec. 31), works displayed throughout the Atrium and Coastal Room, Gibsons Public Market, 10am-3pm

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• Santa reading The Night Before Christmas, pre-recorded, 5pm, for the link visit the Sechelt Downtown Business Association Facebook page www.facebook.com/SecheltDowntown

Friday, December 25

• Global Premiere of Panto Live’s virtual interactive Cinderella, for details go to https://pantolive.com/ cinderella-press (voucher access code: pantopress)

Saturday, December 26

• Gibsons’ animator Choom Lam debuts her film “The Forest and the Trees” online at the 15th Annual Los Angeles International Children’s Film Festival (free screening to Jan. 3), go to childrensfilmla.org to reserve tickets

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December 4th to December 24th

Sunday, December 27

• Kalijo Pilates’ Year-End Retreat (Dec 27-Jan 1): a 13-hour online year-end retreat taught by nine instructors, 9:15am, for more info go to www.kalijopilates.com

Tuesday, December 29

• Aquarium Festive Free Days (Dec. 29-31), Gibsons Public Market, 10am-5pm, go to www.gibsonsmarine-ed.org to book a visit

Wednesday, December 30

Gibsons’ animator Choom Lam is having her animated short film “The Forest and the Trees” debut at the 15th Annual Los Angeles International Children’s Film Festival this holiday season. The film presents the story of a determined mushroom conquering tumultuous emotions while on a challenging journey. Lam is an animator, illustrator and graphic designer whose animated films have been shown in festivals worldwide. She is Artistic Director of The Animation Playground (TAP), an independent animation studio based here in Gibsons. The online festival will be presenting more than 80 short films from across the world for toddlers through teens from Dec. 26 to Jan. 3. Admission is free. To reserve tickets, go to childrensfilmla.org. PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Sunshine Coast Closets

• Ron Campbell Live on Facebook: Ron’s latest virtual show of old-time Blues, Jazz and originals, 6:30pm, by donation at http://facebook. com/roncampbellmusic/live/

Friday, January 1

• New Year’s Day Dog Day, well-behaved leashed canines and their people are welcome to come for a stroll, 11am-4pm, admission by donation, Sunshine Coast Botanical Gardens, 5941 Mason Road, Sechelt • Hospice Society’s Lighting of the Memories – online ceremony, 1pm, tune in through your Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ coasthospicesociety

Saturday, January 2

• Art Exhibition: Abstract artist and alt-folk musician Keely Halward, The Kube Studios, Gibsons, 11am-4pm

Includes listings compiled by the Coast Cultural Alliance. More details & more listings – including virtual events – at suncoastarts.com

Eagle, Bear and Wolf Earrings .... $15 each Sterling Silver Cougar & Wolf Rings .... $40 & up Iguana Jackets .... $50 each Bear Forest Sweaters & Buffalo Plaid Pullovers .... $90 each Cedar Carvings .... $50 & up

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Moose & Bear Pillows And Blankets .... $30 - $80 Trapper Hats & Gloves .... $25 & up Hunter-Gathering Tools .... $70 & up

Hours: Mon-Sat: 9:30am-5:30pm, Sun: 11am-4pm

Dog mistakenly shot On Dec. 20, at 3:30 pm, police were called to a rural residence in Halfmoon Bay after a domestic dog was shot by a neighbour with a shotgun.

Police spoke to the neighbour, who said he thought the dog was a coyote going after his chickens. Luna, the nine month old Husky, was rushed to the veterinarian but died from her injuries.

Police are continuing to investigate and will work with their partners at BC Conservation Service and the SPCA. ••• On Dec. 21, a coast resident reported falling for a popular scam after responding to unsolicited messages she received through a popular social media site.

The scammer told the resident she was eligible for a Canadian Government Grant program and that if she paid the “administration fees” in iTunes cards, then she would receive back one hundred times the gift cards value in cash. Fortunately, a friend of the resident found out about this and so prevented the resident from giving the scammer the gift card activation codes. Police remind the public to be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, especially “investment” type schemes. Learn more about the red flags to watch out for, please visit sites such as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www. antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca. Submitted by RCMP

The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020 13

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The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020

SCT elects 2020/21 board at virtual AGM Sunshine Coast Tourism (SCT) elected its 2020/21 board of directors during a virtual annual general meeting held on Nov. 25.

Geoff Gornall of Tapworks Brewing Company has joined the board, and the organization also welcomed back 10 board members that will serve for the 2020/21 year.

• President, J.L. (Jack) Barr – Powell River Town Centre Hotel / Beach Gardens Resort & Marina (Large Accommodations, North) • Vice-President, Christine Hollmann – Terracentric Coastal Adventures (Member At Large - North) • Treasurer, Heather Newman – Pointhouse Suites on Sargeant Bay (Large Accommodations - South) • Secretary, Theressa Logan – Sunshine Coast Air (Recreation) • Shangxuan Ma – Gibsons Garden Hotel (Large Accommodations, South) • John Hermsen – Footprint Kayak & Hike Explorations (Member at Large, North) • Gary Bearchell – Cabins on the Coast (Small Accommodations & Campgrounds) • Linda Williams – Coast Cultural Alliance (Arts, Culture, & Heritage) • Geoff Gornall – Tapworks Brewing Company (Member At Large - South) • Jamie Mani – Alpha Adventures (Member At Large - South) • Chris Tait – Klahoose Wilderness Resort (Large Ac-

commodations - North) “Many thanks to those who have served on the SCT board to date as well as to those stepping up again this year,” said Paul Kamon, executive director of SCT. “We are fortunate to have a volunteer board that is committed to the health of the tourism sector, especially during these challenging times. It’s been a tough year, but we’re optimistic that together we can take on the year of recovery ahead.”

During the meeting, President Jack Barr announced the organization’s intent to move to a stakeholder model in 2021. The move will eliminate membership fees and allow staff to more effectively market the full range of the region’s diverse and expanding tourism sector.

“The stakeholder model is inclusive and creates more resources and flexibility with cooperative marketing and media opportunities,” said Barr.

A Notice of Resolution was made by Barr that an Extraordinary General Meeting be held on Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2021, to vote on whether SCT will move to a stakeholder model. Proposed bylaw changes will be circulated to the membership for review in 30 days (from Nov. 25/20) to provide members with the opportunity to review the bylaws with the option to make recommendations. Any changes to the bylaws will be voted on and adopted at that time.

In response to the pandemic, SCT waived membership dues for 2020. This measure has been extended into 2021 until the special resolution to move to a stakeholder model has been passed. Tourism-related businesses interested in becoming a member may complete the membership registration form at www. sunshinecoastcanada.com/ corporate/membership.

Submitted by SCT

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Top-selling Christmas gifts from years past Many children who grew up in the 1980s hoped to find a wrapped Cabbage Patch Doll under the tree on Christmas morning, and many parents went to great lengths to procure such dolls for their children.

Cabbage Patch Dolls are just one example of a toy creating a shopping frenzy. Over the years, many toys have become the must-have presents of their times. The following is a history of some of the more popular gifts from bygone years.

1984: Transformers were a musthave present in 1984. Originally produced by a Japanese toy company, Transformers were eventually produced

by Hasbro and became so popular they were a toy that spawned an animated series (not the series leading to the toy) and later blockbuster live-action movies.

1985: Just about every child, and maybe even adult, wanted a Nintendo Entertainment System for Christmas in the 1980s. The system ushered in a new era of gaming and helped make Super Mario Bros. a household name.

NES continued its success for several years, selling seven

Please GIVE to the Food Bank

million systems during the 1988 holiday season.

1986: Introduced the previous year, Teddy Ruxpin was an animatronic bear that would tell stories from a cassette tape inserted in his back.

1990: Were you a fan of Michelangelo, Leonardo, Donatello, or Raphael? Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles were named after Renaissance artists, but they were just pizza-eating teenage heroes at the start of the 1990s. Kids obsessed over these action figures and the animated series that featured them.

1992: Barbie has always been a popular holiday gift, but her

reinvented Barbie Dream House was something girls were clamouring for in the early 1990s. Barbie’s trendsetting home featured a ringing telephone, a working doorbell and a fireplace that lit up.

1993: The Talkboy was a portable audio cassette player and recorder made popular by the movie “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.”

1995: Beanie Babies were a popular line of collectibles that enjoyed their heyday in 1995.

Rare Beanie Babies would later be worth hundreds of dollars.

1997: Tamagotchi made its ap-

(3.13” x 1.8”)

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1998: Building on the Tamagotchi success, Furbies were poised to become a hit as well. And they did, as 27 million Furbies were sold in 1998 alone.

Pokémon cards, Razor Scooters, Nintendo DS, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and many other gifts have reigned supreme during the holiday shopping season. Last year L.O.L. Surprise Dolls were the sleeper hit, and who is to say which gift will capture the hearts of kids this year?

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Transit driver locates missing man On Dec. 17, at 3:30pm, Sunshine Coast RCMP were notified by family members that a 74-yearold man with dementia had been missing from a residence in Gibsons for several hours.

Family members and police searched the area and reviewed surveillance video from a local business in an attempt to track his movements. Sunshine Coast Search and Rescue was notified, and

photos of the man were sent out to BC Transit so that bus drivers along the Sunshine Coast could watch out for him.

Within 15 minutes of receiving the photo and description of the man, sharp eyed local bus driver Matthew Evans saw the man walking several kilometres from where he had gone missing. Mr. Evans was able to provide information which helped officers to locate the man who thankfully was

uninjured.

“With colder temperatures and darker evenings, if this man had not have been found when he was it could have had a much more serious outcome,” said Cst. Karen Whitby.

“We appreciate the help of Mr. Evans and everyone else who assisted in the search, which thankfully resulted in the man being returned to his family.”

Submitted by RCMP

A boy looking at candy canes in a store window on a promotional Christmas card from the early 1900s. The origins of the candy cane are believed to be German. Around 1670, it is said that the choirmaster at the Cologne Cathedral handed out sugar sticks to keep the children in the choir quiet during long Christmas services. The hook in the candy represents the shepherds’ staff. WILLIAM B STEENBERGE/SUNSHINE PUB.CO.PHILA PHOTO

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16

The Local - Thursday, December 24, 2020

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