The Local Weekly Dec 26, 2019

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Volume 17, Issue 52

Sunshine Coast, British Columbia • www.thelocalweekly.ca • Thursday, December 26, 2019 Running Reindeer

Here Comes 2020

Page 11

Dogs Found Page 3

Housing Study Page 5

SAR Top Pick Award Page 6

Coast Student Recalls France Page 6

Ambulance Chaser Caught Page 7

Hydro Wildlife Page 11

Leonard Cohen Documentary Page 12

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The year 2020 is staring us in the face. It’s not 2020 vision, of course, because we don’t know most of what the new year will bring. Although we do know that riding the ferry will save you pennies (see page 6) and the lack of Medical Services Plan premiums will save you hundreds of dollars (see page 15). As for New Year’s Eve celebrations, those are listed on pages 8 and 9. And there is an explanation of some New Year’s Eve traditions on page 10. There aren’t any fireworks that we know of on the Coast – the illustration is a metaphorical rendering of your excitement about the new year. (Or maybe a representation of the inside of your head if you got too excited.) The other thing we know about 2020 is that there will be no Local published on Jan. 2; we will return on Jan. 9. Happy New Year! METRO CREATIVE ILLUSTRATION

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The Local - Thursday, December 26, 2019

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September September5,5,2017 2017- -January January1,1,2018 2018 Two dogs found: Henry, a two-year-old German Shepherd, and Abigail, a 10-month-old Bluetick Coonhound, were two of five dogs who bolted from their owners on the weekend of Dec. 14-15 in Roberts Creek. These two were reunited with their human on the Sunday in about the same place – Largo Road at the highway – where they had bolted on the previous afternoon. They were gone all night and found Sunday morning wandering way up Mount Elphinstone and put in their rescuer’s car. Turns out when they got to the highway, their own human was in a car right behind them and they were reunited. Their human was relieved. The dogs were happy, but not saying where they’d been. The other three missing dogs were also found.

JANE COVERNTON PHOTO

Meetings – mark your calendars Local government elected representatives from Sechelt and Gibsons began their seasonal holiday break the week before Christmas. At their first meetings in December, both groups adopted their 2020 meeting schedules.

The Sunshine Coast Regional District Board completed its 2019 meetings on Dec. 12, having endorsed its new year meeting scheduled in October. The first scheduled SCRD meetings of 2020 are set for Jan. 9, with both the board and the planning and community development committees meeting that day.

All local governments endorsed schedules in keeping with their procedure bylaws and the established practice of afternoon committee and evening council meetings on Tuesdays in Gibsons and Wednesdays in Sechelt. The SCRD meeting timetable involves morning committee

and midday board meetings on Thursdays.

The Town of Gibsons’ first council and committee meetings of the new year are slated for Jan. 14.

Although adopted as part of the 2020 schedule, Sechelt’s staff recommended that the Jan. 8 committee of the whole meeting be cancelled.

If this action was endorsed at the Dec. 18 council meeting, this will see the elected representatives back at the council table for the first time in the new year on Jan. 15.

It would also mean only one Sechelt committee meeting that month, on Jan. 22.

All three groups plan to take breaks from the regular meeting rotation during the summer. Due to the Canada Day holiday, Sechelt is planning for one council meeting during July. That council has only one meeting scheduled for August and has no com-

mittee meetings slated for that month. No meetings are scheduled for Gibsons council or the SCRD board during August.

In addition to the scheduled meetings posted on their websites, local elected bodies can call special meetings as needed by providing a minimum of 24 hours public notice. Scheduled meetings can also be cancelled by a vote of the council or board.

Sechelt and Gibsons councils also made deputy mayor appointments for the coming year. In Gibsons, Councillor Aleria Ladwig agreed to handle these duties for the month of December 2019 and for the year of 2020. In Sechelt, the position of deputy mayor rotates, with a different councillor taking on these duties monthly. Councillor Matt McLean will serve as Sechelt’s deputy mayor for January, 2020. Connie Jordison

Careful with the use of Sechelt logo On Dec. 10 and 11, Terry Collier of EFG Architects in Edmonton hosted public information sessions, on behalf of Chartwell Retirement Residences, about a potential seniors housing development. Sechelt citizens have expressed concern to district staff that a proposed development has district support with no public input.

The District of Sechelt does not have a position on this project. Permission to use the district logo on print or presentation materials was not granted. A development application has not been submitted to the district and a proposal has not gone before council.

District of Sechelt council can approve development applications that meet Sechelt’s

bylaws and regulations, but does not take official positions of support or endorsement before approval.

Julie Rogers, communications manager, stated, “I would caution anyone who copies images off the internet, whether a logo or a photo, that Canadian copyright laws apply to all such images.”

Submitted Kirsty Tozak, left, RE/MAX City Realty, presented a check to Paul Wagler and Claudette Hawkins, who represented an interchurch committee organizing a Christmas dinner for Dec. 22 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Gibsons.

The $2,500 donation was intended to cover the costs of providing a free dinner for more than 250 people in need. PHOTO SUBMITTED

FALL/WINTER FALL/WINTER

Happy Holidays & Vancouver Vancouver- -Langdale Langdale Happy (Horseshoe (HorseshoeBay) Bay) - (Gibsons) - (Gibsons)New Year

!

Please Please Note: Note: At At Langdale, Langdale, ticket ticket sales sales endend fivefive minutes minutes before before theyours the scheduled scheduled sailing sailing time time forfor vehicles vehicles from our family to andand walk-on walk-on passengers. passengers.

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Family Owned Langdale/Vancouver Langdale/Vancouver andand Powell Powell River/Sechelt River/Sechelt Peninsula Peninsula areare notnot guaranteed guaranteed to to connect. connect.

Please Please plan plan your your travels travels accordingly. accordingly. & Operated

Crossing CrossingTime: Time:4040Minutes Minutes September September5 5- October - October9,9,2017 2017

Shannon, Brad & Shelley

LEAVE LEAVEHORSESHOE HORSESHOEBAY BAY LEAVE LEAVELANGDALE LANGDALE 7:25 7:25amam 6:20amam 6:20 www.rugrunners.ca Sechelt Sechelt Peninsula Peninsula Powell Powell River 9:40 9:40amam 8:30 am 8:30 amRiver facebook.com/rugrunners.gibsons 739 North Road, Gibsons 12:00 12:00 pm pm 10:50amam 10:50 (Earls (Earls Cove) Cove) - (Saltery - (Saltery Bay) Bay) 1:30 1:30pm pmSunSun 1:05pm pm 1:05 except except OctOct 88 Please Please Note: Note: Ticket sales sales andand loading loading endend fivefive minutes minutes before before thethe scheduled scheduled sailing time forfor vehicles vehicles 2:40 pm 2:40 pm 2:15 2:15 pm pmTicket Sun Sun except except OctOct 8 sailing 8 time Sunshine Coast and and and walk-on walk-on passengers. passengers.

3:55 3:55 pm pmOctOct 9 9 6, 2016 - January 2, 2017 3:25 3:25pm pm September 5:00 5:00 pm pmOctRiver 4:30 4:30pm Oct 9 99090 Langdale Langdale topm to Earls Earls Cove Cove terminal terminal is 84 is 84 kmkm (52mi), (52mi), plan plan on on approximately approximately minutes minutes driving driving time. time.

Powell Schedules 5:50 5:50 pm pm Mon-Fri, Mon-Fri, except except Oct Oct 9 9 5:30 5:30 pm pm Powell Powell River River to to Saltery Saltery BayBay is 34 is 34 kmkm (22mi), (22mi), plan plan onon approximately approximately 4040 minutes minutes driving driving time. time.

FALL/WINTER Schedules in Effect: October 15, 2019 to except March 31, 2020 7:00 7:00 pm pm 6:35 6:35 pm pm Mon-Fri, Mon-Fri, except Oct Oct 9 9 Langdale/Vancouver Langdale/Vancouver andand Powell Powell River/Sechelt River/Sechelt Peninsula Peninsula areare notnot guaranteed guaranteed to to connect, connect, please please plan plan 8:40 8:40 pm pm 7:35 7:35pm pmFor schedules, fare info or to reserve Schedules subject your your travels travels accordingly. accordingly.to change without notice.

10:35 10:35 pm pmdaily for any last minute sailing changes.

9:40 9:40pm pm1-888-223-3779 or www.bcferries.com Check online Please Please Note: Note: Fares Fares collected collected at at Saltery Saltery BayBay only. only.

604.886.9990 Sunshine Coast & Powell River Schedules

Langdale - Vancouver

October October 10, 10, 2017 -Minutes January -Minutes January 2018 2018 Crossing Crossing Time: Time: 5050 (Gibsons) -2017 (Horseshoe Bay) 1,1,

Crossing Time: 40 minutes Distance: 10.5 nautical miles

PleaseHORSESHOE Note: At Langdale, ticketing will end five minutes before theLEAVE scheduled sailing time for vehicles (Sunshine Coast) (Vancouver) LEAVE BAY LEAVE HORSESHOE BAY LEAVE LANGDALE LANGDALE September September 5 5 October 9, 9, 2017 2017 and walk-on passengers.

AtOctober Horseshoe Bay only, ticket sales for vehicles and walk-on passengers will 7:30 amam Daily except Dec. 25 &1 Jan. 1 6:20 am except Dec. 25 7:20 7:20 6:20 6:20 amamDaily Except Except Decthe Dec 25scheduled 25 & Jan & Jan 1sailing Except Except DecDec 2525 & Jan & Jan 1 &1 Jan. 1 end tenam minutes before time.

9:45 am 8:40 am Daily Daily LEAVE LEAVE EARLS EARLS COVE COVE LEAVE LEAVE SALTERY SALTERY BAY BAY 9:25 9:25amam and Powell River/Sechelt Peninsula are not guaranteed 8:25 8:25 am Please plan Langdale/Vancouver toam connect.

11:55 am 10:50 am Daily your travels accordingly.

11:30 11:30 10:25 10:25 5:35 5:35amamExcept 6:30 6:30 amamDaily Except Except SunSun Except SunSun 2:10 pm Daily 1:05 pm Daily Crossing 1:35 1:35 pm pm 12:35 12:35 pm pm 7:25 7:25 am am 8:25 8:25 am amTime: 40 Minutes 3:15 pm Daily 2:40 pm Dec. 23 & 26-27 only 3:50 3:50 pm pm 2:45 2:45 pm pm 9:25 9:25 am am 10:25 10:25 am am September 3:50 pm Dec. 23 & 26-27 only 4:20 pm Daily6 - October 10, 2016 5:50 5:50 pm 4:50 4:50 pm pm 11:45 11:45 am am 12:55 12:55 pm LEAVE LEAVE HORSESHOE 5:25 pmBAYDaily 5:30 pm LANGDALE Daily 7:50 7:50 pm 6:50 pm pm 2:05 2:05 3:15 3:15 pm 7:20 am 6:50 6:20 amDaily 6:40 pm Daily 7:50 pm 9:25 am 8:25 am 9:45 9:45 pm pm 8:45 8:45 pm 4:30 4:30 5:35 5:35 10:55 pm Daily 8:55 pmpm Daily 11:30 am 10:25 am 6:40 6:40 pm pm 7:40 7:40 pm pm 1:35 pm 12:35 pm schedules are subject to change without notice.

PLEASE NOTE: All pm Sep8:35 2:45 pm 9,8:35 16, 23 pmpm sailing changes.

9:35 9:35 pm pm Check online daily 2:10 for any last minute

3:15 pm Sep 9, 16, 23 3:50 pm 4:20 pm Sep 11, 18, 25 4:50 pm Crossing Time: 50 minutes Powell 5:25 pm SepRiver 11, 18, 25 - Sechelt Peninsula 5:50 pm Distance: 9.5 nautical miles October October 10, 10, 2017 2017 January January 1, 1, 2018 2018 (Saltery 7:50 pm 6:50 pm Bay) - (Earls Cove) 8:30 pm Oct 10 8:45 pm Langdale toEARLS Earls terminal is 84 km (52mi), plan on9:45 approximately 90 minutes driving time. BAY (Sechelt) (Powell River) SALTERY LEAVE COVE LEAVE COVE LEAVE SALTERY BAY 9:35EARLS pm Oct 10Cove pm LEAVE Powell River to Saltery Bay is 34 km (22mi), plan on approximately 40 minutes driving time.

6:35 am Daily except Sun. and Dec. 25 & Jan. 1 5:40 am Daily except Sun. and Dec. 25 & Jan. 1 6:30 6:30amam11Except Except Sun,Sun, & Dec & Dec 25,25, JanJan 1 1Peninsula are not guaranteed 5:35 5:35 amExcept Except Sun,plan Sun, & Dec & Dec 25,25, JanJan 11 Langdale/Vancouver and Powell River/Sechelt toam connect, please October 8:25 am 7:30 am Daily- December 21, 2016 Daily your travels accordingly.

7:25 7:25am am 8:25 8:25amam LEAVE LANGDALE LEAVE HORSESHOE BAYDaily 10:25 9:25 am Daily Ticketam sales and loading end three minutes before the scheduled sailing time foram vehicles and five 9:25 9:25 10:25 10:25 am am 6:20 amwalk-on 7:20 am 11:20 am am 12:25 pmfor Daily passengers.

Daily minutes 8:20 am 9:20 am 11:20 11:20amam 12:20 12:20 pmpm 4:55 pmNote: Please Fares collected at Saltery Bay only.

10:20 amDaily 11:20 am 3:50 pm Daily 3:50 3:50pmpm 4:55 4:55 pm pm 7:00 pm 12:20 pmDaily 1:20 pm 6:00 pm Daily Crossing Time: 50 Minutes 5:55 5:55 pmpmDaily 6:55 6:55 pm pm 2:30 pm 3:30 pm 7:55 pm 8:50 pm Daily 5:30 pm 9:25 4:30 pm September 6 October 10, 2016 9:25 pmpm 10:30 10:30 pm pm 10:406:30 pmpmDaily 7:25 pm 9:45 pm Daily LEAVE SALTERY BAY LEAVE EARLS COVE 9:15 pm 8:20 pm 5:35 am Except Sun 6:30 am Except Sun 7:25 am 22, 2016 - January 2, 2017 8:25 am December 9:25 am 10:25 am • 100% market penetration in HORSESHOE every area BAY of the Sunshine Coast LEAVE LANGDALE LEAVE am 12:20 pm • the11:20 ONLY community newspaper delivered toDec your home mailbox by Canada Post 7:20 pm am Except 6:20 pm am Except Dec 25 & Jan 1 25 & Jan 1 3:50 4:55 8:25 am 9:25 am and hand delivered to all businesses, newspaper boxes and BC Ferries 6:55 pm 5:55 pm 10:25 am 11:30 am advertising dollar!

So get the most for your 10:30 pm 9:25 pm 12:35 pm 1:35 pm 2:45 pm 3:50 213,pm5710 Teredo St., P.O. Box. 494, Sechelt, BC, V0N 3A0 Produced locally October 4:50 pm11 - December 21, 2016 5:50 pm phone 604-885-3134 • fax: 604-885-3194 supporting our LEAVE 6:50 pm 7:50 EARLS pm COVE LEAVE SALTERY BAY community! www.thelocalweekly.ca • Guaranteed Distribution 8:45 pm 9:45 pm 5:35 am Except Sun 6:30 am Except Sun

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4

The Local - Thursday, December 26, 2019

Editorial Opinion

Weekly Cartoon

Time to talk turkey The facts of the climate crisis aren’t in dispute. We know the planet is heating at an unnaturally rapid rate, mostly because humans are wastefully burning fossil fuels and destroying natural areas like forests and wetlands that store carbon, putting human health and survival at risk.

Yet, as many of us break bread with family and friends during the holiday season, some dread the polarizing conversations that can arise. Many of us have listened to someone confidently assert that climate change is a hoax or that it’s no big deal. How do we talk to them? Should we bother?

Although most people know the climate emergency is serious and needs addressing immediately, we’re all in denial to some extent. For those in the know, it’s partly what allows us to go about our days. The difficult, frightening reality is that humanity continues to rapidly develop and burn fossil fuels, pushing atmospheric greenhouse gases to their highest concentrations in three to five million years — when global temperatures were 2 to 3 C warmer, sea levels were 10 to 20 metres higher and our species didn’t yet exist.

Confronting these facts isn’t easy, but not paying them enough heed over the past few decades has stalled action that could have prevented upheaval. We’re now at a point where further delays could spell disaster.

“Talking is the most important thing we can do and it does make a difference,” climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe argues. But how do we do that? It’s a difficult subject even for those who study it. And many people feel they don’t know enough to discuss it. Others have been misled by massive industry-funded campaigns, supported by politicians and media, to downplay or deny the evidence.

Hayhoe says we shouldn’t argue about science with those who dismiss it, but rather, we should be “connecting the dots to why it matters to us and what we and other people are already doing to fix it.”

Technology is increasingly helping people cut though polarization on subjects ranging from U.S. politics to climate.

The David Suzuki Foundation’s new CliMate conversation coach is designed to help people through difficult but important conversations about climate disruption and its solutions.

CliMate, on Facebook Messenger, allows users — regardless of their position on climate change — to move through a conversation with possible questions and responses, offering feedback to help people find common ground and shared values. It’s not about winning a debate but about reducing polarization and cultivating empathy — based on a growing body of evidence about the best ways to make progress on contentious subjects.

Here’s to good conversations this holiday season.

David Suzuki

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The Local Weekly is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact publisher@thelocalweekly.ca or 1-604885-3134. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the website at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

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MEMBER OF

Letters to the Editor – Opinions Focus on function (Re “Roadwork in downtown Sechelt”, the Local, Dec. 12) I was very confused to read in the roadwork story where Mayor Siegers is quoted saying, “Our community... often tells us need more bike lanes.”

While this may be true, I’m not sure that this same community is clamouring for bike lanes in downtown Sechelt, where traffic is slow, full of stop signs, and rife with pedestrian traffic. It also doesn’t strike me as a prime commuter route given other, faster options. Meanwhile, the

Use beach logs

(Addressed to Premier John Horgan and copied to the Local) The news in BC is very disturbing about the closures and shutdowns of our sawmills, plywood and pulp mills around the province, citing “lack of wood supply”.

In a recent discussion with the press you said, “it’s time to add value to the province’s forestry products”. I agree totally and I am wondering if there is a possibility of using cut logs that have been abandoned on over 25,000 kilometres of our coastal beaches.

These logs were BC trees that have been cut and trimmed in our forests, many of them have processor marks on them as well as stamps. According the ministry of forests, these logs are classified as “uneconomical to recover” and “worthless”; nobody wants them, and if somebody does, that same ministry says, “don’t touch those logs, you have to pay stumpage”.

We can put a number of people back to work and recover this wood if we are prepared to “think outside

places where cars drive fast and unhindered, like the highway and the roads to Tuwanek and Kinnikinnick, have yet to receive their bike lanes.

I hope that future projects focus on function and need over aesthetics and convenience.

David Poon, Gibsons

Not at all amusing

(Re “four-faced” editorial cartoon, the Local, Dec. 12) I understand the political bias of your cartoonist, but it’s getting to be boring and not at all amusing.

The election is over, give it a rest with the Trudeau

the box”.

First, these logs are not “worthless”; yes, they are jammed up onto the beaches and have rocks and sand plus salt embedded in them and the outer layer will have to be stripped off. We will have to create a “BC coastal log reclamation project”, financed by the logging, towing and insurance industries.

We will have to re-create the beachcomber crews to pull the logs off the beaches, then design and build “floating log processor plants” utilizing barges, complete with crew accommodations.

These log processors could utilize hydro jet cutting tools. If they can cut the old

bashing; it’s bad enough with MSM (main stream media). You guys can surely do better (maybe you don’t want to).

Bob Manaton, Sechelt

Don’t approve Frontier

(Addressed to MP Patrick Weiler and Environment Minister Jonathan Wilkinson, and copied to the Local) Our new Liberal government was elected on the promise that climate action would be its top priority. If it is serious about this, then there is no way that it can justify approving the proposed Frontier mine that is currently being promoted

Port Mann Bridge to pieces with this technology, it will certainly strip the exterior off a log. The sand, rock and salt will separate from the blown-off wood chips into a water trough and return to the ocean floor. The clean logs and wood chips, will now have regained their “value” and could then be loaded onto barges for delivery to the mills.

To all of the folks who will say “what about the eel grasses and beaches?”

– only “cut” logs need to be removed. All the tree roots and other miscellaneous river debris will be left on the beaches.

Gene Pelly, West Vancouver

by Alberta Premier Jason Kenney. That would be the largest and most devastating open pit mine in the history of Canada’s oil sands.

As such, it would be Canada’s worst-ever assault on the environment.

Secondly, I urge our new government to stop immediately the insane practice of subsidizing the oil and gas industry. That industry in Canada currently produces more carbon pollution than the combined output of all Canada’s vehicles and airplanes. How is it possible that our governments, with one hand, are collecting taxes from consumers as a penalty for polluting and then, with the other hand, are paying the fossil fuel companies billions of dollars as a reward for polluting? There’s simply no justification for this, and I urge our government to finally put an end to those subsidies.

As anyone can see, the climate crisis is not an issue for the future; it is happening right now – melting of the polar ice caps, extreme weather events, horrific examples of drought and famine, etc. What will our country and other Western countries say when we start to see vast numbers of climate refugees arriving at our border? Will we, as the creators of this crisis, say that we are still doing little or nothing to address it?

Robert O’Neill, Roberts Creek

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Logs accumulate on the beach at Roberts Creek. A letter writer suggests a government program to salvage timber for use in BC mills. JOHN GIBBS PHOTO

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.

The Local - Thursday, December 26, 2019 5

Sechelt planning for a new, simplified zoning bylaw in the new year Sechelt is looking to bring an updated and simplified zoning bylaw forward for community input early in 2020. The municipality’s current bylaw dates back to 1987, the year following incorporation of the district.

It has been amended more than 250 times. As a result of these amendments and the updating of the Official Community Plan (OCP) in 2011, there are inconsistencies between these two key development bylaws. These differences can lead to confusion regarding land use regulations and are contrary to the province’s Local Government Act. The district wants to get the two bylaws into alignment before it takes another run at updating its OCP. A revision of that document is committed to in Sechelt’s 2019-2023 Strategic Plan.

The OCP provides an overall development framework, as well as statements on visions and values for the future of the municipality. It contains policies and objectives regarding land use, environment, housing, economic development, transportation, infrastructure, parks, heritage and community services.

The zoning bylaw takes the OCP policies to the next level, defining specific land use zones, such as residential, commercial, or industrial. It lays out details for land development projects on lands

within zone types. These include things like setbacks, flood control requirements, building heights and lot coverage.

Community engagement options for a proposed new zoning bylaw were on the Dec. 18 council agenda. Staff recommended that in addition to involving residents and business owners, groups like community associations, the Downtown Business Association and Chamber of Commerce, as well as the area’s development community, have opportunities for input. Involvement of the region’s economic development organization, neighbouring local government and provincial authorities was also recommended.

In an earlier conversation with the Local, Mayor Darnelda Siegers said she was in favour of involving community associations early in the bylaw development process.

“These groups know their areas best and have experience with how different zoning regulations can impact a neighbourhood,” said Siegers.

Another goal of the zoning bylaw update is to make land use regulations easier for both the development community and residents to understand. One way the district wants to do this is by using development industry standard colours to display different zoning types on the maps contain in any new by-

law.

District staff also noted that the new bylaw could be set up so that fewer comprehensive development (CD) zones need to be created in the future. They have put forward an option where that zoning would only be used when parcels have a mix of land uses. Since 2002, more than 40 CD zones have been created under the existing bylaw for development projects that did not fit existing zoning categories.

The proposed update currently contains 19 parts detailing different categories of land uses. Separate bylaw sections are being proposed to set out requirements for home-based businesses as well as properties offering short term accommodation rentals.

The pre-draft version of the new zoning bylaw has reduced the number of land use zones to 23 compared to 56 in the existing bylaw.

Three single family residential zone categories are proposed. The lowest density zone level would be applied to areas with limited municipal services. A higher residential zone category is recommended in areas where things like sewer services provide the potential for additional dwellings units on properties. A third residential zoning is suggested for properties within the Sechelt village neighbourhood, where more intense density

Sechelt council is expected to bring forth a proposed new zoning bylaw for public input in the new year. CONNIE JORDISON PHOTO

Housing needs study launched The Town of Gibsons, in partnership with the District of Sechelt and the Sunshine Coast Regional District, has awarded the contract for the provision of a “Sunshine Coast Housing Needs Assessment” to Urban Matters CCC, a Vancouver-based Community Contribution Company that specializes in affordable housing, health and social planning, community development and social innovation.

Like many communities in BC, the Sunshine Coast is experiencing significant housing challenges around affordability and availability. In fact, according to BC Non-Profit Housing Association, the Sunshine Coast contains the highest proportion of renters in BC spending more than 50 per cent of their income on housing.

The “Sunshine Coast Housing Needs Assessment” aims to update the 2014 report “Housing on the Sunshine Coast: Trends, Needs and Directions” and develop a com-

prehensive picture of trends across the Sunshine Coast, while also identifying community-specific needs, gaps and opportunities. It will be paid for by a grant provided by the Union of BC Municipalities.

A project kick-off meeting was held on Dec 9, with the first phase of the project to involve identifying stakeholders, launching a steer-

ing committee, undertaking background research, and preparing an engagement strategy. Under the terms of the contract, the project must be completed no later than June 15, 2020.

To see the related request for proposal and other project background, please visit: www.gibsons.ca/sc-housing-needs-assessment.

Submitted

Residents on the Sunshine Coast have reported to police that they have been receiving calls from a business stating that they need to “test” their water due to possible contaminants.

RCMP have spoken with the Sunshine Coast Regional District and they confirm that they have not asked for these tests to be conducted and they have no connection to these companies. SCRD has posted on their website

that there is “no lead concern with SCRD water”. The SCRD regularly tests the local water and their results are posted on their website at www. scrd.ca.

Sunshine Coast RCMP are asking the public to be vigilant, ask questions and do their own research into the legitimacy of these businesses before giving out personal information or inviting sales people into their homes.

Submitted by RCMP

Water test warning

could be considered.

Staff also suggest that zoning for multi-family developments have three categories for differing levels of development density. Five

commercial zones are proposed. In each case, staff propose a higher zone code be applied to areas suitable for larger scale projects that pose higher community

impacts.

District announcements regarding the new bylaw and the public engagement process are expected shortly.

Connie Jordison

Thanks for choosing us. See you soon!

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

We hope you have a wonderful Christmas and wish you all a Happy New Year!

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6

The Local - Thursday, December 26, 2019

Rescue group’s Top Pick Award

A lifelong connection through exchange

Sunshine Coast Ground Search and Rescue held its annual appreciation dinner Dec. 14 and two awards were presented to two very deserving recipients.

Bruce Mitchell was awarded the first-ever “Search Managers Appreciation Award” for his long-time service and dedication to the association.

The second was the “Top Pick Award”, given each year to the member voted by the member’s peers for having given an outstanding contribution to the association throughout the year – and this year the award went to Andy Evans. Andy is the association’s public relations director and one of two instructors teaching the courses to the new members in training.

Andy also contributed many hours in the construction and upgrades to our team base, John Hind-Smith Hall, on Solar Road in Wilson Creek.

The ice axe on the Top Pick Award belonged to Captain Mike Williamson and in 1999 he donated it to Sunshine Coast Ground Search and Rescue to be used as the basis for an award for the Search and Rescue team member who was voted on to have done the most for the association throughout the previous year. The ice axe was refurbished and mounted on a mahogany board by the late Harry Almond, our long-time president, and made into the award that we have today.

As it says on the plaque, it is

Cailey Nikodem, a grade 10 student at Chatelech returned from France in the fall from a short term Rotary Exchange program. She initially considered going on exchange after her family hosted an exchange student, Alix Bentaberry, from Lille, France.

While Cailey is an avid rugby fan, Alix is an avid golf player and plays for her local school. This difference in sports didn’t stop them from becoming close friends during the exchange. Alix had always wanted to come to Canada, and Rotary gave her that opportunity.

“The experience was amazing,” said Cailey. “I had contacted Alix a month before the exchange, after being connected through Rotary, and we chatted forever. We had booked all our flights and arranged the pick-up so then we just had to wait. Alix came to Canada first for about a month in July and we did all the touristy things in Vancouver like bike around Stanley Park, visit the Aquarium, and walk around downtown Vancouver. It was so cool to see our local community though a visitors eyes and we went to places that I hadn’t even been to yet, like kayaking around Porpoise Bay.” “Her main goal was to see a bear, so we went to Grouse Mountain where we were sure to see some, and we did.

“Awarded annually to a member of the Sunshine Coast Search and Rescue Society for outstanding contribution, dedication, and commitment.”

Previous recipients of the award were: Bill Lawson (1999), Harry Almond (2000), Sue Duxbury (2001), Robert Allen (2002), Rod Moorcroft and Megan O’Donnell jointly (2003), Peter Ronning (2004), Alec Tebbutt (2005), Stephanie Read (2006), Jim Janke (2007),

Eileen Bonaguro (2008), Jim Janke and Mike MacKown jointly (2009), Sheree Haydu (2010), Eileen Bonaguro (posthumously) (2011), Alec Tebbutt (2012), Rod Moorcroft (2013), Richard Till (2014), Jason Haines (2015), Don Neville (2016), Derek Apple (2017), and Ian Martin (2018).

For more information about Sunshine Coast Ground Search and Rescue, visit: www.sunshinecoastsar.ca Submitted by Robert Allen

Andy Evans was this year’s winner of the Top Pick Award, voted by members of the Sunshine Coast Ground Search and Rescue (SAR) for outstanding contribution during the year.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

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

“I do! I do!

Now is the time to capture the attention of future brides and grooms with your products and services!

I loved hanging out with her and because we were total strangers, learn about each other and our own cultures.

We went to Barkerville to show a bit of BC history and even though some was lost in translation, it was great. She met some of my friends and we spent our last Canadian moments lounging on the

I do!”

Be part of this special feature to be published: Thursday, January 23, 2020 Leading up to the Sunshine Coast Wedding Fair on February 8, 2020 • Top-quality printing • Professional design • Interesting editorial • Distributed directly in mailboxes throughout the Sunshine Coast and on BC Ferries Call the LOCAL today and talk to #213-5710 Teredo Street, Sechelt , BC www.thelocalweekly.ca

Coast resident Cailey Nikodem, left, and Alix Bentaberry posed while riding around Stanley Park in the summer, when Alix was on a Rotary exchange to Canada. PHOTO SUBMITTED

Kaytee 778-918-7910

for our January Special Rates!

Email: admin@thelocalweekly.ca

Alix and Cailey are seen on a visit to Pont Du Guard, an ancient Roman aqueduct, during the time Cailey spent as a Rotary exchange student in France. PHOTO SUBMITTED

beach here on the Coast.”

After showing Alix some of the most beautiful parts of BC, Cailey then went to France.

“France was beautiful,” Caily said. “It was so cool to be immersed in a totally different language and culture.

It’s different than just visiting because in the exchange you stay with total strangers that speak a different language and you have to adjust. I met almost all of Alix’s family and pets. We did so many things like visiting medieval villages and swimming in canyons.

Everyone was so kind and understanding. I learned about some French traditions, like appéro, and ate for ages. It was pleasantly warm the entire time and was quite a culture shock coming back to Canada even after such a short time abroad.

“I loved the whole thing.

I’ve now made a lifelong connection with someone I’ve known less than a year. It was different than traveling with a friend because you depend on each other more. In France, Alix was the only person I knew and could talk to and vice-versa. I feel so lucky having this experience and thank the local Rotary Club for the opportunity.”

Submitted

Ferry fuel surcharge removed BC Ferries announced the 1.5-per-cent fuel surcharge would be removed as of Dec. 17. BC Ferries closely monitors the price of fuel and applies a rebate or surcharge, or neither, under a regulatory process that is independent of fares.

This surcharge had been in place since June 1, and amounted to 20 cents per passenger and 65 cents per vehicle on the Langdale route.

Over the past 15 years, BC Ferries has been using a fuel

rebate/surcharge mechanism to manage the volatility in the price of fuel. When fuel prices are lower, lower fuel prices are passed on to customers through a fuel rebate. When fuel prices are higher, a fuel surcharge is implemented specifically to cover the additional cost of fuel. There have also been periods with neither. The company does not benefit financially from surcharges or rebates.

“The recent decrease in the price of fuel allows us to

eliminate the fuel surcharges, which is great news for travellers,” said Alana Gallagher, BC Ferries’ vice resident and CFO. “We understand that affordability is important to our customers and every bit helps.”

BC Ferries now has five vessels operating on liquefied natural gas, which is a cleaner and less expensive fuel than ultra-low sulphur diesel. The company also has two electric battery hybrid vessels on their way to BC. Submitted

Local

the

REAL ESTATE NEWS

Real Estate Market Minute

Tony Browton RE/MAX City Realty

One of the best Boxing Day traditions on BC’s Sunshine Coast is to take the family and meet friends up on Dakota Ridge.

Have a snowball fight, do some tobogganing and enjoy a hot chocolate in the warming hut, or maybe try some snow shoeing or cross country skiing.

There are lots of options and it’s hard not to have a good time, especially with the kids trying out the new sleds that they got for Christmas.

The Sunshine Coast Regional District operates Dakota Ridge winter recreational area, a 1,532-acre plateau that features 20 kilometres of world class cross country ski trails (classic and skate), four kilometres of groomed snowshoe trails, three kilometres of wilderness snowshoe trails, and a sledding area.

The trails wind through old growth forests and open areas in subalpine setting. Topping out at 1,200 metres, the facility offers amazing views

Education Matters Maria Hampvent

Trustee, School District #46 School Board

School District 46 is honoured to be the first district to have an affirmation as a step towards reconciliation and the calls to action resulting from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Education in this province is leading the way towards this necessary transformation which is occurring in our communities and country. Our board is pleased to publish the affirmation: “The Board of School District 46 affirms its commitment to Indigenous Peoples and Reconciliation” as an explicit

of the Coast Mountains, Vancouver Island, and Salish Sea. The Dakota Ridge Facebook page features updates on road and trail conditions.

For weather information you can visit Environment Canada. Due to the nature of the road to Dakota Ridge, access is restricted to four-wheel drive vehicles with chains or you can use the shuttle service offered by Alpha Adventures.

Rates for the ski and snowshoe trails help to pay a portion of the cost of maintaining the trails, road and facilities.

Season passes and day passes can be purchased at the Gibsons & Area Community Centre.

You can also purchase your season pass at the Sechelt Aquatic Centre or Pender Harbour Aquatic & Fitness Centre and pick it up one week after purchase at those facilities.

Day passes can also be purchased at the Dakota Ridge trailhead; note that exact change is required.

Dakota Ridge is a user pay system with onsite facilities that include a warming hut with fireplace and an outhouse with an ecologically-sound holding tank.

A trail map is located at

the trailhead. The area is patrolled during weekends by volunteer trail hosts who are available to answer questions, monitor trails, and help ensure user safety. Dakota Ridge is a wilderness area with varying weather conditions, visitors should be prepared for winter weather.

Garbage facilities are not available on site, so please pack your garbage out with you.

With the exception of the Sechelt main cross-country ski trail, dogs are not allowed on cross-country ski trails.

Dogs are permitted on snowshoe trails and must be under control at all times.

To get to Dakota Ridge you need to drive to the end of Field Road in Wilson Creek.

The main parking lot is located at the trailhead which is 14 kilometres up the forest service road.

The access road is plowed on a regular basis; however, winter conditions should be expected on the road.

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.truebluerealty.ca/blog

testament about our strategic direction as a district.

The new branding incudes thoughtful Indigenized circles of care, and a stated recognition of the un-ceded territories on all of our business cards, email signatures and marketing materials.

When interviewed about these developments Rita Poulsen (shíshálh language instructor for SD46) responded: “I appreciate this; I believe these statements and this direction recognizes the types of steps we need to take towards what reconciliation means for our community.” Nancy Denham (co-founder of the siyaya reconciliation movement and restorative justice circle keeper and trainer) responds: “The affirmation and the statement throughout the branding about the un-ceded

land clarifies the facts of the relationships between our communities. Stating the truth at this time contributes to the healing of the Nations and settler communities.”

We were thrilled when Superintendent Bocking suggested creating the affirmation, which appears at the beginning of all of our strategic plan documents and social media spaces. In his wisdom to have the affirmation at the beginning and comparable to the vision and mission, it serves the board’s desire for clear, strong and thoughtful messaging. Our Board is proud that this is at the forefront of our current strategic plan, that this lens provides a key feature of how we will endeavor to assess and facilitate the achievement of the specific goals and outcomes.

Ambulance chaser apprehended On Dec. 10, Emergency Health Services staff reported a vehicle tailgating an ambulance that was driving Code Three northbound on Highway 101 in Davis Bay. Police located the vehicle in Selma Park and initiated a traffic stop with the “N” driver who advised he didn’t know he was doing anything illegal. Witnesses had also reported the suspect vehicle passing on a solid line to overtake other vehicles that had yielded for the emergency vehicle. The driver was issued a Violation Ticket for Drive without Consideration and Fail to Display “N.” ••• On Dec. 12, a witness re-

ported a group of people consuming alcohol and smoking cannabis from a bong in a vehicle travelling on the Langdale-bound ferry. Police located the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop shortly after it left the terminal. The driver was given a roadside alcohol screening test and determined not to be impaired. However, the driver did not possess a valid Driver’s Licence and was a Vehicle Impound Candidate for a previous infraction, so he was issued Unlicenced Prohibited Driver documents and the vehicle was impounded for seven days. One of the passengers was served a Violation Ticket for Cannabis Con-

sumption in a Vehicle. Police also seized a small amount of cannabis and a number of alcoholic beverages.

••• On Dec. 16 at approximately 5:30pm, a motor vehicle incident involving a pedestrian occurred at the intersection of Teredo Street and Trail Avenue, Sechelt. The vehicle driver was attempting to make a left turn onto Trail when he struck the pedestrian in the middle of the crosswalk. The driver, who was not impaired, remained on the scene while the seriously injured pedestrian was taken to hospital by Emergency Health Services.

Submitted by RCMP

The Local - Thursday, December 26, 2019 7

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The Local Weekly, the Sunshine Coast Business Magazine & the Sunshine Coast Homes & Decor Magazine Would Like to Wish Everyone a Happy New Year and Best Wishes for a Prosperous 2020!

Thank You to All of Our Advertisers & Supporters!!

Sunshine Coast

HOMES&Decor

MAGAZINE

NEXT EDITION: JANUARY 9, 2020 AD DEADLINE: JANUARY 2, 2020

NEXT EDITION: SPRING 2020 ASK FOR YOUR PERSONAL PROFILE!

BUSINESS

SUNSHINE COAST

MAGAZINE

NEXT EDITION: SPRING 2020 ASK US HOW YOU CAN BE INVOLVED!

#213 - 5710 Teredo St. Sechelt, BC V0N 3AO 604-885-3134 www.thelocalweekly.ca

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8

The Local - Thursday, December 26, 2019

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BC RECYCLEpEdia YCLE (732-9253) 00-667-4321

council of B.c. MeMBeR STORE HOURS:

Thursday, December 26 • Tetradhedron band, 101 Brewhouse, 8pm

Friday, December 27

• Daniel Wesley reggae dance party, Roberts Creek 100% CANADIAN OWNED LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED Hall, 7pm Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia

www.rcbc.ca

WORKING WITH YOU TO Saturday, December 28 BUILD A STRONG COMMUNITY Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday: 8am - 6pm Thursday & Friday: 8am - 9pm • Sunday: 10am - 5pm AUTO SERVICE HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm

604-885-6611

4380 Sunshine Coast Hwy, Wilson Creek

• Board games drop-in, all ages, Sechelt Public Library, 10:30am-2:30pm • Repair Cafe, Gibsons Public Library, 1-5pm

Recycle? Yes or no?

Get the BC ReCYClepedia app

• Singer-songwriter Glenn Millar entertains Gibsons Public Market, 2:30-4:30pm

Sunday, December 29

• Sunday blues jam hosted by Peter Van Trio, Pender Harbour Golf Club, 2-6pm, by donation

www.rcbc.ca

• Dave Philley entertains, Gibsons Public Market, 2:30-4:30pm

Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

Monday, December 30

Peace on Earth in 2020

604.865.0708 604.865.0708 joe@joejames.ca 604.865.0708 joe@joejames.ca joejames.ca joe@joejames.ca joejames.ca joejames.ca 201 5760 Teredo St., Sechelt, BCTeredo V0N 3A3 201 5760 St., 201 5760 Teredo St., Sechelt, BC V0N 3A3 Sechelt, BC V0N 3A3

• New Year gathering with yoga, meditation and silence, with accommodation and vegetarian meals, SevaLight Retreat Centre, Halfmoon Bay, 11am until 2pm Jan. 1, 604-740-0898

Tuesday, December 31

• New Year’s Eve dance with Apasionado, and prime rib dinner, Pender Harbour Legion, 6pm

• New Year’s Eve community potluck celebration, with live music, sponsored by RC Community Association and RC Legion, Roberts Creek Hall, 6pm, free, donations accepted • New Year’s Eve Mardi Gras, with Martini Madness and Dr. Fun, Gumboot Cafe, Roberts Creek, 7-10pm (New Orleans time) • New Year ‘s Eve dance with Half Cut & the Slackers and Playback, Gibsons Legion, 8pm

Happy Holidays to All!!

HOLIDAY SEASON HOURS:

• New Year’s Eve with rock ‘n roll bingo and DJ Buzy B, 101 Brewhouse, Gibsons, 8pm • New Year’s Eve with DJs Michael Red, Sugar, and Mieke Jay, Roberts Creek Legion, 9pm • New Year’s Eve with DJ DLW, Tapworks, Gibsons, 9pm

Wednesday, January 1

• Davis Bay polar bear swim, registration 11am

• Lighting of the Memories, to honour the memory of a loved one, hosted by SC Hospice Society, Mission Point Park, Davis Bay, 2pm, 604-740-0475

Saturday, January 4

• SC Film Society presents “Marianne and Leonard: Words of Love”, a documentary about Leonard Cohen and his muse, 2pm, Raven’s Cry Theatre, Sechelt, 2pm

Sunday, January 5

• Opening reception for Friends of the Gallery exhibition, Arts Centre, Sechelt, 2-4pm

Monday, Jan. 6 – Tuesday, Jan. 7

• SC Film Society presents “Marianne and Leonard: Words of Love”, a documentary about Leonard Cohen and his muse, Heritage Playhouse, Gibsons, 7:30pm

Thursday, January 9

• Watercolour art lesson with Carol-Anne Almquist, Sechelt, 10am-1pm, 778-808-5666

Friday, January 10

• Opening reception for an exhibition by Zachary Harding and Béla Ord, the Kube, Gibsons, 6-9pm

OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED: Tuesday, December 24 to Friday, December 27, 2019 & Wednesday, January 1st, 2020 OFFICE WILL RE-OPEN: Monday, December 30, 2019

PLEASE NOTE: The Local will not be publishing on January 2nd, 2020

Next edition: January 9th, 2020.

#213-5710 Teredo Street, Sechelt phone: 604-885-3134 thelocalweekly.ca Classifieds: admin@thelocalweekly.ca Sales: sales@thelocalweekly.ca

TS, SPORTS, ENTERTAINMENT, MUSIC, VISUAL ARTS

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The Local - Thursday, December 26, 2019 9

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Thursday, January 23

• Short story writing workshop and reading by Michael Mirolla of Montreal, Gibsons Public Library, workshop 1-3pm, reading 3:15pm, register at 604-886-2130

• “Bike shorts” movie night, hosted by TRAC, 101 Brewhouse, Gibsons, 6:30pm

Friday, January 24

• Two free Rick Scott concerts to celebrate family literacy day, sponsored by SC Literacy Coalition, Roberts Creek Hall, 11am and 5pm, register at share-there.com

• First of six Tuesday pottery on the wheel classes, Forst Pottery, Gibsons, 10am-noon and 5:30-7:30pm, 604-840-0304

• Grateful Dead tribute with Vancouver’s GD/BC, Roberts Creek Legion, 8pm

Wednesday, January 15

• Income tax information with a Canada Revenue Agency officer, Gibsons Public Library, general 1-4pm, info for newcomers to Canada, 6-7:30pm

Friday, January 24

• Robbie Burns night, with Scottish meal, scotch and pipers, Gibsons Legion, 6pm

• Climate Action Speaker Series presents Jay Ritchlin of the David Suzuki Foundation, hosted by the marine education centre, Gibsons Public Market, 6:30pm

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• Lecture/workshop on graffiti with Beau Smith, Gibsons Public Art Gallery, 2-4pm

Saturday, January 18

• Comedy Club standup show with headliner Graham Clark, Heritage Playhouse, Gibsons, 7:30pm, ages 18+

• Opening reception for an exhibition of graffiti and graffiti demos, Gibsons Public Art Gallery, reception 2-4pm, demos 4-6pm

• Dance with 10-piece band Soulstream and DJ Teflo, fundraiser for Gibsons Landing Jazz Festival, Roberts Creek Hall, 8:30pm, coastjazz.com • Live hiphop with DaniXLizzy and Emotionr, Lighthouse Pub, Sechelt, 9pm

Saturday, Jan. 25 - Sunday, Jan.26 • Watercolour and ink classes with Bruce Edwards, the Arts Building, Gibsons, 10am-4pm

Wednesday, January 29

Sunday, January 19

• Muse open mic, five minutes to share poetry, prose or song, Gibsons Public Library

• Andrea Superstein Sextet concert, School of Music, Madeira Park, 2-4pm

Thursday, January 30

Wednesday, January 22

• Clothing swap (clean, in good condition), Gibsons Public Library, 5-7:30pm

• Crafty grieving support group, exploring different mediums, Sunnycrest Mall, Gibsons, 5:30-7:30pm, www.rockindeed.com

PICK ONE UP AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS FROM OUR GREEN BOXES:

✓ IGA Gibsons ✓ Fields Store Gibsons ✓ Roberts Creek General Store ✓ Big Mac’s Sechelt ✓ Sechelt Public Library ✓ Teredo Square ✓ Pier 17 - Davis Bay ✓ Halfmoon Bay General Store ✓ Earls Cove Ferry ✓ Canada Post Garden Bay ✓ Painted Boat Resort ✓ IGA Madeira Park ✓ Pender Harbour Diesel ✓ Bathgates General Store - Egmont

✓ OR at the LOCAL office:

#213 - 5710 Teredo Street

THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS! Contact Kaytee today to reserve your spot!

Cell: 778-918-7910 Office: 604-885-3134 Email: admin@thelocalweekly.ca

The Local Weekly, the Sunshine Coast Business Magazine & the Sunshine Coast Homes & Decor Magazine Would Like to Wish Everyone a Happy New Year and Best Wishes for a Prosperous 2020! Thank You for Your Support Year After Year!

BUSINESS

SUNSHINE COAST

MAGAZINE

NEXT EDITION: JAN 9, 2020 AD DEADLINE: JAN 2, 2020

NEXT EDITION: SPRING 2020

ASK US HOW YOU CAN BE INVOLVED!

Sunshine Coast

HOMES&Decor

MAGAZINE

NEXT EDITION: SPRING 2020

ASK FOR YOUR PERSONAL PROFILE!

#213-5710 Teredo St. Sechelt, BC V0N 3AO 604-885-3134 www.thelocalweekly.ca

10

The Local - Thursday, December 26, 2019

New Year’s Eve traditions New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are a time to both reflect on the past year and to look forward to the excitement the months ahead will bring. There may be confetti, there are probably noisemakers and some bubbly is likely overflowing from champagne flutes.

New Year’s celebrations can be traced back thousands of years to ancient Babylon. And as with many holidays with deep histories, traditions are the hallmark of many New Year’s celebrations. While many people perform these traditions by rote, it can be interesting to delve into the history behind various components of New Year’s celebrations.

Champagne Toasting the new year with a sparkling wine can be traced back to French champagne producers. Champagne, a sparkling wine from a specific region of France, was used in the baptism of the Frankish warrior Clovis, according to the Champagne Committee of France. Soon, champagne became a key part of religious events, coronations and soirees – as well as secular rituals that replaced formerly religious rituals, according to the book “When Champagne Became French” by Kolleen Guy. Champagne manufacturers eventually linked the bubbly to festive occasions with family, and New Year’s celebrations became another ideal time to pop the cork on

Thank You for Your Support throughout the Past Year!

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set their own timepieces while at sea, Palmer devised the idea of dropping an illuminated ball on New Year’s Eve. This has been tradition since 1907.

Resolutions New Year’s resolutions can be traced to the Mesopotamians. Ancient Babylonians also made spoken resolutions during a 12-day-long New Year Festival. These resolutions were oaths made to the sitting or new king and were considered essential to keeping the kingdom in the gods’ favour. The Romans also had a similar tradition of swearing oath to royalty at the start of the year. Many of these traditions merged into modern resolution-making, according to Live Science.

These are but a few New Year’s traditions. The history behind these traditions is storied, just like the holiday itself. Metro Creative

The custom of making resolutions for the new year can be traced to the ancient Mesopotamians. The use of champagne, on the other hand, was promoted by France’s champagne producers. METRO CREATIVE PHOTO

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Ball drop While not everyone can venture to New York City’s famed Times Square to watch the ball drop in person, millions tune in around the world to watch it on television. Original celebrations in New York centered around listening to the bells of Trinity Church ring at midnight, but the New Year’s Eve celebrations were later moved to the New York Times building in 1904. Fireworks were part of those celebrations, but hot ash and sparks falling on spectators led to a ban on fireworks, and event organizers needed another spectacle to draw crowds, according to PBS. Publisher Adolph Ochs asked his chief electrician Walter Palmer to create something visually appealing.

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The start of the Holiday Hustle run through Sechelt on Dec. 15, with 107 people participating.

The top male finishers in the 5k run were Jordan Wilson (17:23), Jamie Leveque (20:07) and Daren Causon (22:27), all from Sechelt. The top female finishers in the 5k were Megan Kraus (23:01), of Sechelt, Katrina Walters (24:09), of Halfmoon Bay, and Brynn Storey (26:09), from Sechelt. The top three finishers in the 2k run were Callum Storey (9:53), Justin Grant (10:11) and Olive McLaughlin (12:10), all from Sechelt. TERESA NIGHTINGALE PHOTO

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The wildlife of a Hydro lineman BC Hydro responded to around 50,000 trouble calls in the province this year. As the year draws to a close, it has compiled a list of the most memorable incidents in 2019.

Animal encounters • Itchy bear: 10 customers in Williams Lake were left without power after a bear used a pole as a scratching post. A similar incident occurred near Hope when an itchy bear rubbed against the side of a house and knocked the meter off the socket.

• That goose is cooked: A bald eagle caused an outage to customers in Clinton when the bird dropped its lunch – a Canada goose – directly on a power line.

• Busy beavers: Beavers harvesting timber for a dam were the culprits of outages in Dawson Creek and Hazelton after the trees collapsed on to power lines.

Crews in Hixon were able to prevent a similar incident after removing a tree that beavers were attempting to fall.

Household hijinks • I spy: In an attempt to se-

cretly record activities at a neighbouring property, a customer on Vancouver Island climbed a power pole to affix a security camera atop the structure. BC Hydro crews were alerted and the camera was safely removed.

• Drone groan: A customer in Surrey found out the hard way that flying a drone around power lines in a residential area was a bad idea after it contacted a line, resulting in an outage at their home.

Mother Nature’s fury • Wind woes: Over 20,000 customers in North Vancouver and West Vancouver lost power in the early morning hours of Nov. 27 after a unique combination of weather events, including a “bomb cyclone,” caused extensive damage to BC Hydro’s system.

Balloon blunders • Sparks fly: A hot air balloon ride in Vernon was landing when the balloon contacted a power line during its descent. The fabric of the balloon tore free from the line and the balloon and its

passengers landed safely.

• Party (ending) balloons: One of the 52 outages caused by balloons contacting BC Hydro’s equipment was an incident in Richmond on New Year’s Eve when a bundle of rogue balloons contacted a power line, resulting in an outage to 20 customers.

Risky business • Not-so-sharp shooter: This past summer, hunters near Stewart used BC Hydro transmission towers for target practice, resulting in an outage for 170 customers and over $60,000 in damages. Two similar incidents were also discovered on Vancouver Island – one near Coombs and another near Qualicum Beach.

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The Local - Thursday, December 26, 2019

Local

the

ARTS & CULTURE

Young artists show off the certificates they received Dec. 14 in recognition of their art work that had been displayed at the Arts Centre in Sechelt during the preceding month. ANDREA COATES PHOTO

Pet Smarts Jane Bowers Professional Trainer

The holiday season is upon us and potential hazards can become more available to the family dog.

Some Christmas plants can be hazardous and puppies, in particular, can be curious.

According to the Pet Poison Helpline, ingestion of Christmas tree needles can irritate the mouth and stomach, resulting in vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. Poinsettias contain a milky white sap that can cause mild vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea when ingested by pets. Mistletoe and amaryllis are also toxic to dogs.

Homemade salt dough ornaments are a popular craft around Christmas but this

dough is hazardous to dogs so make sure these types of ornaments are well out of reach of dogs because sometimes dogs are attracted to the ingredients. The dough contains large amounts of salt which, when ingested, can cause neurological issues and seizures, so any dog suspected of ingesting salt dough should see a vet immediately.

Chocolates, raisins, xylitol and grapes are poisonous to dogs so keep them out of reach of the dog. Cooked turkey bones can splinter and cause health issues if ingested by the dog and unattended platters of food may cause indigestion and diarrhea.

Some dogs may feel overwhelmed by the presence of holiday guests so provide the dog with some quiet time in a separate room if he needs it.

Food dispensing toys (avail-

Library closed The Roberts Creek Library will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s

Day. If books need to be returned during these closures, they can be dropped off at the Roberts Creek General Store. Submitted

Members of the Sunshine Coast Children’s Choir and “The Wild Women” pose for a photo following their Dec. 14 concert at the Hyland Centre in Roberts Creek. The concert was called “Solstice: Songs to Welcome Winter”. ALEISHA FRIESEN PHOTO

Leonard Cohen film in January

Jane’s dog Pete is hoping for a safe holiday season. JANE BOWERS PHOTO

able at all our local pet supply stores) help keep a dog occupied. Try and keep the dog on his routine including daily exercise as much as possible.

For a dog who is having trouble coping despite management of the situation, talk to your veterinarian as there are products that can help relieve anxiety and that your veterinarian can recommend and prescribe.

Be sure that your pets are microchipped and wearing identification and a reflective collar just in case they get loose.

Have a safe and happy holiday season.

An incredibly moving documentary about Leonard Cohen and Marianne Ihlen, his Norwegian lover and muse, “Marianne and Leonard: Words of Love” is the first film of the 2020 season for the Sunshine Coast Film Society.

Whether or not you were part of the era that inspired this incredible musician/poet’s life, it will appeal to all Canadians who appreciate Cohen, his life and his music. Displaying a vast amount of archival footage from the ‘60s and ‘70s, it paints a vivid picture of a complicated relationship and the times. Documentary maker Nick Broomfield explores all of this in this tender, funny and hauntingly moving new film which culminates in the death of Marianne and Cohen’s final message to her.

The SC Film Society screens “Marianne and Leonard: Words of Love” on Saturday, Jan. 4 at 2 pm at the Raven’s Cry Theatre in Sechelt, and Monday, Jan. 6 and Tuesday, Jan. 7 at 7:30pm at the Heritage Playhouse in Gibsons.

(Please note, Tuesday screenings are less crowded than Mondays.) Members $5, others $9.

Submitted by Bette Chadwick In July the Coast String Fiddlers 3rd generation, a group of girls aged 12-16 attended the Merlin Music Academy in Selkirk Scotland. It was a week-long camp where the group had the opportunity to learn a new song every day in the traditional Scottish Highland style. They were lucky enough to play alongside renowned Scottish fiddler Iain Fraser. The group issued a public thank you to their sponsors and supporters who made the trip possible. And they performed a free public concert Nov. 8 at the Gibsons Public Market. PHOTO SUBMITTED

A photo of Marianne Ihlen and Leonard Cohen from the documentary “Marianne and Leonard: Words of Love”. COURTESY OF ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS

Mac Dodge and Mary Beth Pongrac of the Driftwood Players are seen in rehearsal for “Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning, Juliet)”, a comedic re-imagining of two Shakespeare plays. The play was presented at the Heritage Playhouse in Gibsons on three weekends in late October and early November. PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Local - Thursday, December 26, 2019 13

Happy Holidays to All!!

HOLIDAY SEASON HOURS:

Next edition: January 9th, 2020.

OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED: Tuesday, December 24 to Friday, December 27, 2019 & Wednesday, January 1st, 2020 OFFICE WILL RE-OPEN: Monday, December 30, 2019

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The Local - Thursday, December 26, 2019 15

Astrologer

Tip of the Week: 2019 was an eventful year. It included 5 Eclipses, the most recent of which occurs on December 26.

Uranus entered Taurus and Chiron entered Aries starting 7-year cycles each.

Jupiter was in Sagittarius all year then entered Capricorn (Dec. 2) and made 3 important squares to Neptune. How you were personally and if directly affected by these events depend on how they activated your Birth Chart. The deeper implications of these ‘influences’ are features of destiny. Understanding the meaning, purpose and timing of these activations of destiny is what astrology is all about. Belief has nothing to do with it. Free will does play an important role and life requires you to use it to co-create your destiny. The notion that any person entirely creates their destiny, by any method, is a popular illusion. Astrology is a powerful tool for self-awareness and can help you understand your authentic nature and destiny, within the con-

text of your personal reality.

I invite you to discover this truth for yourself in 2020 which is destined to be epic.

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19) Looking back to 2019 you probably directed a lot of focus to your home and family. Securing your base and yet also making it comfortable was the main focus and this will continue, until mid-Spring. You may also have embarked upon a healing focus somehow, whether physically, financially, in your relationships… Changes in your economic strategy will continue.

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20) Pushing rather forcefully into new territory was a strong theme in 2019. At worst, this caused trouble. At best, you breached old barriers once and for all. You were in a visionary mood and were determined to make significant changes and probably assumed a posture of leadership and determination to do so.

This theme will continue in 2020.

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) Deep and powerful changes have been underway for you for some time now. The eclipse on December 26 will produce another big push to this end. Although this process of change will continue throughout the year, it

will go to the next effective level right away. The main emphasis is on health. Positively, you are rejuvenating.

Cancer (Jun 22 – Jul 22) Changes on relationship fronts will be activated by this eclipse. These may come about suddenly and unexpectedly. However, the writing has probably been on the wall for some months now. They have and will produce changes in your associations. This includes who you choose to spend time with and why. In some respects, you are focusing to invest in your future.

Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 23) Some changes in your lifestyle linked to your career will be activated by this eclipse. You could change careers, get a promotion, experience more business or your position at work could end. These changes could also simply affect your public status and reputation.

Focus on improvement for best results and be open to learning new strategies.

Virgo (Aug 24 – Sep 22) A creative boost is usually gladly received and you are the lucky recipient. It includes seeing a bigger picture of possibility and a willingness to invest. Perhaps you need more tools, supplies or training or maybe the emphasis is on in-

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creased exposure linked to marketing. Either way, it appears that the gods are smiling on you so be confident.

Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22) The next installment of change close to home has been activated. It will push you to reassess your financial interests and approaches. It is quite likely that you qualify to earn more than you do currently and/or at least do work you enjoy more and which aligns with your priorities. The changes could also involve other family members.

Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21) When it comes to perceiving reality, you tend to be a realist and perhaps also a pragmatist. On the other hand, you are also very creative and imaginative.

Emphasizing this winning combination in your public and professional life is likely now. Yet, you should be aware that these could come with major, sudden and unexpected changes in your relationships.

Sagittarius (Nov 22–Dec 21) Everyone is feeling the shift of change directly or indirectly due to this eclipse. It is and will probably have a direct impact on your personal finances.

Positively, you could receive an insurance claim or an inheritance or maybe you will win a lottery. In any case, you should expect changes

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Recycle? Yes or no?

69. Regenerate DOWN

1. Final 2. Singing voice 3. Leading actor 4. Peacefulness 5. Metal-bearing mineral 6. Tatter 7. Howl 8. Upward 9. Cooking implement 10. Gyre 11. Short swinging punch 12. Not in action 13. Look searchingly 21. Understand 22. Secret plan

24. The night before 26. Not in operation 27. Relating to the kidneys 28. Run away secretly to marry 29. Panorama 31. Currency of Tunisia 32. Wipe out 33. Repulse 35. Simian 36. Form of transport 37. Historic period 41. Sing and play for somebody 43. DNA segment 44. Conclusion

45. Seafarer 47. Cleaning material 48. Small rounded bread 50. Musical drama 51. Unit of weight for precious stones 52. Crew member 53. Woodwind instrument 54. Artifice 56. Den 58. Golf club 59. Center of an object 60. Was cognizant 62. Fashion 63. Saloon

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to changes in your career and will especially affect your finances. These could well produce changes close to home with your family and may even affect a move sometime in 2020, if it is a feature of your deeper destiny.

Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20) How you perceive yourself and the world and your role, purpose and place in the world are subject to change due to this eclipse.

This process already began in spring 2019, but will undergo their next effective shift starting now and extending into spring 2020. Expect to increase your overall scope of exposure and subsequently of influence.

CROSSWORD

People in BC will have re- British Columbians and good $1,800 back in our pockets ceived their last bill for Med- for BC’s resilient, sustainable takes the pressure off and ical Services Plan (MSP) pre- economy.” will make it easier to cover ACROSS miums in December 2019, The elimination of MSP our expenses and add to our 1. Lariat 6. Exchange putting more money back premiums represents a net savings.”

10. Vessel into the pockets of British Co- tax cut of $800 million. IndiMSP beneficiaries who 14. Change lumbians. viduals will save up to $900 a have auto-payments through 15. Aura “The cost of health care year. Families will save up to their financial institution 16. Encryption should not be a burden on $1,800 a year. are reminded to cancel that 17. Gaze people, but for too long, un“The people of our prov- arrangement to ensure pay18. Public violence fair MSP premiums made it ince should be able to access ments to the province do 19. Part hard to get ahead,” said Pre- British Columbia’s world- not continue. They are also 20. Ripped mier John Horgan. “Our gov- class health care system with- reminded to keep their ac21. Ego ernment is making different out having to worry whether counts up-to-date with MSP, 22. Card game choices and we’re working or not they can pay their MSP including address changes.

23. Requirement to make life more affordable premium,” said Adrian Dix, Eliminating regressive 25. Peal for people in BC. This rep- minister of health. “With this MSP premiums is a shared 27. Resuscitate resents one of the largest last bill, people will contin- priority between govern30. File holder middle-class tax cuts in BC’s ue to receive the health care ment and the BC Green 34. Selected as the best history and will make a big they deserve, while enjoying Party Caucus, and is part of 35. Toward the stern difference in people’s lives.”

38. Anger their savings as a result of the the Confidence and Supply As of Jan. 1, 2020, MSP MSP premiums being elimi- Agreement.

39. Prying premiums will be fully elim- nated.”

40. Breed of dog Before fully eliminating 41. Break suddenly inated. Government took the Joyce Yan, a new mother MSP premiums, BC was one 42. Appropriate first step Check towards the eliminaBC RECYCLEpEdia who joined Premier Horgan, of the last provinces in CanaCheck the BC RECYCLEpEdia 43. Aquatic birds tion with a 50-per-cent cut James and Dix Dec. 5 at an da to have user premiums for 604-RECYCLE (732-9253) 45. Taunt in premiums as part of the event marking the end to the health care. www.rcbc.ca 1-800-667-4321 46. Lacking lightness Budget 2017 update.

Budget premiums, said, “We have a The provincial govern48. Cask 2018 and Budget 2019 pro- of B.c. MeMBeR family, and although ment’s administrative Recycling council young Recyclingsavcouncil 49. of B.c.

AnnulMeMBeR vided the road map to one of we are both employed, the ings from eliminating MSP 51.

Remedy the largest tax cuts for mid- cost of MSP premiums is a premiums will amount to 52.

Equine animal dle-class British Columbians burden on top of everything over $50 million annually.

55. Plan in BC’s history – full elimi- else our family needs. Having Submitted 57. Small cut nation of MSP premiums for 61. Adjoin British Columbians.

62. Dread “For decades, people in our 63. British peer province had to pay unfair 64. Proboscis MSP premiums instead of 65. Type of song Get the BC ReCYClepedia app using that money to buy food, 66. Worship help pay the rent or even put 67. Cervid their child in after-school 68. Arrow care,” said Carole James, minister of finance. “With the complete elimination of MSP premiums, families www.rcbc.ca have more money for themcouncil of B.c. MeMBeR selves and to invest in BC Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR businesses. This is good for

Where to recycle?

in your daily routine and perhaps even your entire lifestyle.

Capricorn (Dec 22–Jan 19) This eclipse will manifest as a second powerful activation after the Sun entered your sign last week. It is pushing you to be more empathetic and attentive to your own and the needs and welfare of others. Balance is ever an important word and theme in your life so make sure that you are including yourself or redirecting more focus to significant others.

Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 19) Seed activations that have been lying dormant in your subconscious mind are getting awakened thanks to this eclipse. They will lead

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Michael O’Connor

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