The Local Weekly November 19, 2020

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Volume 19, Issue 46

Sunshine Coast, British Columbia • www.thelocalweekly.ca • Thursday, November 19, 2020 Grenier Wins Prize For Excellence Page 3

Gibsons Pool Reopening Page 2

Coast Photo Call

Wetland Funding Page 3

MP Update Page 5

Health and Wellness Page 6

Sechelt Mayor’s Message Page 9

Louis Riel Day Page 11

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Calling on Coast photographers! The District of Sechelt is inviting artists residing on the Lower Sunshine Coast to submit a photo of Sechelt for consideration as a new photomural inside municipal hall. The photo must reflect Sechelt’s heritage, culture, and/or natural environment. The selected photograph will be made into a large-scale vinyl appliqué and will hang on the wall behind the main reception desk. The winner also receives $500. The deadline for submission is 4pm on Monday, Dec. 7. For details and conditions, go to www.sechelt.ca and look under “What’s New.” IAN MORROW PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO All sales subject to $599 admin fee, $99 fuel surcharge, and $500 finance fee where applicable. *OAC. Please see dealer for complete details.

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The Local - Thursday, November 19, 2020

Gibsons pool to reopen soon Gibsons residents are getting their pool back sooner than expected. The SCRD is employing an accelerated option to restart operations at Gibsons and District Aquatic Facility. While that will see swimmers allowed back “as soon as possible,” staff said it could mean eight weeks until they can reopen the facility, which closed in mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

At its Nov. 12 board meeting, the SCRD also accepted the Town of Gibsons’ offer

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of $5,000 to fund capital improvements to reopen the site safely. The board asked SCRD staff to begin discussions with their counterparts in Gibsons on the potential to use the remaining balance in the Town’s Muriel Haynes Trust Fund for the construction of a multi-purpose room at the facility. Following those talks, staff is to report back to a future SCRD committee meeting on that subject.

In advising the board on options, staff noted that an earlier than planned re-

This map shows the latest COVID-19 cases by Local Health Area (LHA) released by the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC). There were three confirmed cases on the Sunshine Coast from Sept. 30 to Oct. 31, bringing the cumulative cases from January to October to 29. The biggest jump in numbers came in September with 12 cases. The BCCDC first started posting LHA numbers in August. LHAs with higher rates are illustrated in darker colour shading, and cases are mapped by location of residence, not the place of exposure. Cases with unknown residence and from out of province are not mapped. BCCDC MAP

opening of the pool would be complicated by the Nov. 7 Provincial Health Authority order for the region. That order limits indoor group fitness activities until Nov. 23.

Another complicating factor identified was staffing. With the facility closed for over seven months, many of its existing staff are not available to resume their employment on short notice.

The board had previously committed to consider reopening the facility in early 2021. Resumption of activities at the pool at an earlier date could add up to another $22,500 to the SCRD’s recreational services deficit in 2020. In debating the accelerated reopening, Roberts Creek Area Director Andreas Tize said that the board has the “unenviable task” of making financial decisions in the best interest of Coast residents. He noted that the board received about 100 pieces of communication in support of the immediate reopening of the facility. He said that he doubted that each of those 100 people would be willing to contribute an additional $225 in taxes to pay for that to happen.

Speaking in favour of an early restart, Elphinstone Area Director Donna McMahon stated that the board needed to provide facilities for people to exercise and socialize in a safe way. “It will be a difficult holiday season, and we need to make options available for families over Christmas,” said McMahon.

Connie Jordison

SCRD leadership election results Halfmoon Bay Area “B” Director Lori Pratt was unchallenged in retaining the SCRD chair position during board elections at the Nov. 12 meeting. Sechelt Area Director Alton Toth was elected as vice-chair.

The meeting, hosted electronically due to ongoing COVID-19 social distancing protocols, saw Toth and Elphinstone Area “E” Director Donna McMahon nominated for the vice-chair role.

All board directors participated in the meeting remotely from external offices. This included newly appointed Gibsons Area Director, Mayor Bill Beamish. Beamish represented the Town on the board in 2018/19. At a Gibsons council meeting held Nov. 10, he was selected to replace Councillor David Croal. Croal

had taken over the Town representative role on the SCRD board over the past year.

The vote which endorsed Toth’s election was conducted via email. Votes were tabulated and verified by staff in attendance at the SCRD boardroom on Field Road.

Toth replaces the other Sechelt Area Board Director, Mayor Darnelda Siegers, as vice-chair. Siegers had been second in command on the board since 2018. She opted not to let her name stand for re-election. Siegers stated that she wanted to dedicate more time to her role at the District of Sechelt and her newly acquired position on the Island Coastal Economic Trust board. That group was established by the province in 2006 to spearhead economic diversification, planning and

regional revitalization in the Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast regions.

In speaking to his board counterparts in advance of the voting, Toth said that he believed it was important for the local municipalities to retain a leadership position on the regional board. Along with having the capacity to take on the vice-chair role, Toth said he viewed the position as one that would encourage his personal growth.

Toth joined the board in 2019, one year after his election to his first term as a councillor for the District of Sechelt.

Pratt has served as chair since the November 2018 inauguration of the existing board. She is serving her first term as the board representative for Area B. Connie Jordison

Update: Regional hockey/figure skating The Local would like to clarify our Nov. 11 article on the Provincial Health Authority’s regional order for our area (and others) and its impact on local icebased recreation. According to Kate Turner, registrar for both the figure skating and minor hockey associations on the Coast, “The Public Health Order, issued on Nov. 7, suspended all BC hockey

league gameplay. As we temporarily return to ViaSport’s Phase 2 guidelines, which allows for on-ice practice and development to continue, both Sunshine Coast Minor Hockey Association and the Sunshine Coast Skating Club reviewed their protocols and communicated increased safety measures to help mitigate the risks of COVID-19 during this heightened time.

The safety of our members, as well as the ability to offer programming for the physical and mental health and well-being of our youth, continues to be our top priority.

SCMHA teams look forward to resuming their league play when it is deemed safe to do so.”

Many thanks to Turner for the update.

The Local

The Local - Thursday, November 19, 2020 3

Halfmoon Bay store permit delayed The SCRD delayed its review of the re-development application for the Halfmoon Bay General Store property.

This was done at the Nov. 12 SCRD Planning and Community Development committee meeting to allow more public input and to ensure the proponents are aware of those discussions.

The development permit application review was deferred to the committee’s Dec. 10 meeting. To avoid further delay of a board decision on the application, the committee’s recommendations are to be forwarded to the board that same day.

Halfmoon Bay Area Director Lori Pratt noted that board directors were receiving emails from area residents with questions and concerns about the application up to the start of the Nov. 12 meeting. She stated that many neighbours of the store site had told her that they were unsure their input on the proposal had been considered by either the property owners or the SCRD. The new owners of the property plan to rebuild the existing historic structures to allow for a grocery store, café, art studio, gift shop/gallery, office, and a single-family dwelling on the site. Due to the lot topography and the siting of the existing structures, accomplishing this requires reductions in lot setbacks and a variance from the SCRDs parking standards.

Under current rules, 20 offstreet vehicle parking spaces and a loading zone would be required. The plan is to have two parking/loading spaces on the property and continue using the adjacent Mintie Road right-of-way (ROW) for parking. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) has jurisdiction over the ROW. MOTI has advised the proponents that they have no concerns or objections to the plan.

The committee asked staff to discuss potential area parking improvements with MOTI representatives in advance of its Dec. 12 meeting.

MP Patrick Weiler closed off his Nov. 12 Zoom call with the Sechelt Chamber of Commerce by highlighting a federal grant to restore wetlands in the Old Sechelt Mine wildfire area, adjacent to West Sechelt.

The British Columbia Conservation Foundation (BCCF) will be receiving $85,000 for work near the site of the 2015 wildfire. BCCF will undertake the project in partnership with the shíshálh Nation.

The federal money comes from its EcoAction Community Funding Program. The Sechelt area wetland and habitat restoration effort was one of 53 program projects announced by Weiler and the Minister of Environment and

Climate Change, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, earlier that day.

All of the projects focus on protecting the health and quality of water. The total value of the projects announced was approximately $4 million.

In a press release, Sechelt area project leader, Dr. Michelle Evelyn, explained that with the federal and other matching funds, BCCF will be able to hire a field team. This will include a biologist and an excavator to dig the new wetlands and plant native vegetation like reeds, rushes, willows and shrubs. This work is anticipated to have the added benefit of creating new habi-

Committee members noted that if improvements can be made, there may be an opportunity to ask the applicant to contribute toward the costs. It was pointed out that in addition to serving the store site, members of the public park along the Mintie Road ROW when accessing adjacent beaches, trails, boat docks and the SCRDs George Cormack Park.

Members of the public interested in forwarding comments on the development permit application can do so by using the contact information available on scrd.ca.

Connie Jordison

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Renovation plans for the Halfmoon Bay General Store include a grocery store, café, art studio, gift shop/gallery, office, and a single-family dwelling on the site. The store as it is now and, below, a graphic conception of the renovations. CONNIE JORDISON PHOTO/PLACE ARCHITECT LTD. ILLUSTRATION

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Margaret Grenier of Gibsons has won this year’s Walter Carsen Prize for Excellence in the Performing Arts. The $50,000 prize, administered and presented by the Canada Council for the Arts, recognizes the highest level of artistic excellence and distinguished career achievement by a Canadian professional artist in music, theatre or dance. Grenier is of Gitxsan and Cree ancestry and has worked as a professional dancer since 1991. She is also the producer and director of the annual Coastal Dance Festival. ANA PEDRERO PHOTO

tat for wildlife.

“We are so grateful for Environment and Climate Change Canada’s support of our project, which takes place on the unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples, including the shíshálh (Sechelt) and Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nations. In partnership with EcoAction, we are thrilled to embark on this project to improve freshwater ecosystems on the Sunshine Coast,” said Evelyn.

Also, in the release, Wilkinson stated, “Our government is pleased to invest in these community-driven projects aimed at protecting water, creating habitat for wildlife and supporting good local jobs. Just like we did during this pandemic, it is heartening to see Canadians come together through the EcoAction program to safeguard the health of our ecosystem, now and for future generations.”

The release quoted Weiler stating, “Our government is proud to support the work of the British Columbia Conservation Foundation, whose project will employ six community members and work with the shíshálh to restore wetlands in West Sechelt that were destroyed by forest fires and logging activity. Through the EcoAction initiative, we are working together with trusted delivery partners to restore sensitive ecosystems, rehabilitate our environment and create jobs in our communities during this difficult time.” Connie Jordison

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The Local - Thursday, November 19, 2020

Editorial Opinion

Weekly Cartoon

Crises signal need to change The virus spreading COVID-19 worldwide jumped from non-human animals to people – as have most new diseases, from AIDS to SARS to Ebola. We’ve seen the devastation a tiny, mysterious, rapidly spreading virus can wreak on people in a globalized system.

This pandemic could be a trial run for how we respond to the almost-inevitable next pandemic. Or it could be the wake-up call that finally compels us to employ the many available and developing solutions to resolve this and other related emergencies, including the climate and biodiversity crises, as well as the severe inequality crisis.

This lack of respect for all that we’re a part of extends to a lack of respect for each other. Now many people have had enough. Those who would destroy the things that keep us alive and healthy for the sake of short-term profit and power, and who would oppress others and divide us against each other, are a minority, and they’re being called out.

We’re at a turning point. We can go back to a “normal” existence beset by pollution, climate chaos, disease, racism and massive inequality, or we can take this opportunity to reset. It’s time for those who have enjoyed the privileges bestowed by skin colour and background to question their own inherent biases, to be part of the solution – or get out of the way. It’s time to listen to the experts about health, climate and biodiversity, and also to those our societies’ have marginalized and mistreated – and who are most affected by pollution, climate change and inequality. We all need to understand what Indigenous people and people of colour must endure in a “multicultural” country like Canada.

Marginalized people face greater risks from climate change and environmental damage, in part because industrial development is often situated near remote, vulnerable communities and because they often don’t have the resources to protect themselves. Research also shows COVID-19 is especially hard on Black, Indigenous and other people of colour, and the poor.

Changing our ways is a challenge, but as we’ve seen with the pandemic response, the barriers are more political than technological or rational. We know why pathogens – from Lyme disease to COVID-19 – are moving from the wild to human societies. We know why our planet is heating toward levels beyond which human health and survival can be sustained. We also know many of the factors behind inequality.

These crises are grounded in outdated systems that prioritize profits and economic measures over human health, well-being and survival. We have no end of solutions to these crises, but ultimately, systemic change is required to overcome the short-sighted greed that has sent us speeding down this path. 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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Letters to the Editor – Opinions Ebb and flow (Re: “More Cowbell,” Letters, the Local, Nov. 12) I rather enjoyed S. Dieter’s letter to the editor and samaritan summary in “More Cowbell.” One can appreciate the stitching together (Oct. 15, Oct. 22, Oct. 29, Nov. 5) of community sentiments and the pinball-style of reasonings and rebuttals that decorate the local landscape. Civic and civil discussions are an important part of any healthy community. As one old Moondog said, “Do your best, and opportunity will do the rest.”

As someone who made the decision to move from “the City” to “the Coast” five years ago, it seems like there is an ebb and flow to the growing of roots, reaping of fruits (and perhaps sowing of seeds) in one’s newly planted home. My family and I love it here, and we are learning which way the wind blows (it shifts every summer!) and opening ourselves up to, as my wife would say, “whatever blows your hair back.” She still won’t let me get a dog, though, at least not until the children are a little older and responsible enough to pick up the dog poo.

Clinton McDougall, Elphinstone

Attention Roberts Creek!

Here’s your chance to get involved in your community! The Roberts Creek Official Community Plan Committee (OCPC) election for committee members is on Nov. 24. Due to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in BC, and our desire to exercise extra caution at this time, the election will take place via Zoom.

The OCPC is an elected group of 11 volunteers from

Roberts Creek, who meet on a monthly basis to ensure that the Roberts Creek Official Community Plan (OCP) is being followed and that it continues to meet the needs of the citizens of Roberts Creek.

OCPs are fluid by nature.

The OCPC receives and responds to referrals from the SCRD Planning Department that may involve issues of rezoning or development, creation of affordable or alternative housing, transportation improvements, or environmental protection.

Any Creeker can ask to be on the monthly agenda and bring their concerns to the OCPC for discussion or support. Roberts Creek SCRD Director Andreas Tize attends OCPC meetings as our direct link to the SCRD. Meetings are currently held by Zoom on the third Tuesday of the month at 7pm. Anyone who has been a resident of Roberts Creek for one year may run as a candidate, and any resident of Roberts Creek can vote.

Roberts Creek is the only community in British Columbia with its own OCP Committee! Meetings offer a great chance to help shape your community.

Attend the election by Zoom at this link http://bit. ly/3miXXWk on Tuesday, Nov. 24, at 7:30pm, to either run for an OCPC position or to vote. For more information about the OCPC, email me at creekclayworks@ dccnet.com.

Elaine Futterman, Chair, RCOCPC

New community hall Through a partnership between the Halfmoon Bay Community Association and the SCRD, the Federal and Provincial governments have agreed to fund the building of a new community hall in Halfmoon

Bay of just over $2 million to replace the aging, and undersized Coopers Green Hall estimated to cost approximately $3 million. The Community Association had committed to raising $300,000 as its share and has now exceeded this goal, with donations of $309,200 to date, not including pledges of a further $14,200.

These donations have come from all areas of Halfmoon Bay, Wood Bay, to Sargeant Bay, ranging in amounts from $25 to $10,000.

The remainder of approximately $700,000 is the responsibility of the SCRD, although some of this amount has been committed in the form of donations from runof-the-river projects located in Halfmoon Bay. The Association will continue to fundraise and to assist the SCRD with further support of in-kind donations from local businesses.

The Halfmoon Bay Community Association has been in operation since 1947, with a membership of approximately 400 and its own building until a few years ago. Since then, Association events have taken place at Coopers Green. In partnership with the SCRD, extensive public engagements took place between 2016 and 2018. Several public surveys were undertaken, and the SCRD commissioned a Public Task Force in 2018 to look into possible

alternative sites, ocean rise projections, parking concerns, design criteria, etc.

As a result, the design priorities were confirmed, including the siting of the new hall on the present location, and were communicated to SCRDs architect for refinement of the design. With the design and a cost estimate, the SCRD developed a budget, which enabled the submission of the application for Federal/Provincial infrastructure funds in January of 2019, which was ultimately successful.

There has been some concern raised about the ongoing cost of running and maintaining the new building. The Community Association has offered to assume the responsibility for the hall on a long-term basis and is prepared to contract with the SCRD to do this. This would involve making the hall available for all community groups.

The Community Association is in a strong financial position to assume this responsibility.

A new Coopers Green Community Hall will be a fantastic asset for the entire Sunshine Coast, and we would like to encourage everyone to take advantage of donation opportunities to turn this into reality.

Brian Smith, Halfmoon Bay Community Association Board Member

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.

Local MP activity update Local MP Patrick Weiler plans to head to Ottawa in the coming weeks. There, he will join the limited number of elected representatives who are part of the in-person debate at the House of Commons. During the second session of Canada’s 43rd Parliament, elected representatives attend in person or via video link – in a hybrid sitting – due to the need to physically distance to help stop the spread of COVID-19. The session began in September and is slated to continue to Dec. 11.

Weiler talked about his plans during his Nov. 12 Zoom check-in call with the Coast, hosted by the Sechelt and District Chamber of Commerce. The session was moderated by Chamber Chairperson John Henderson.

The majority of the questions posed to the MP focused on the federal government’s priorities and how these will impact the Coast.

Weiler cited his top area of

focus was “ensuring we are on a path towards sustainable economic development.”

He said that the recently announced federal investment of $1.7 billion in broadband projects and the continued focus on supportive housing programs are “highly relevant for the Sunshine Coast.”

In terms of accomplishments, Weiler said he felt his efforts in developing connections to Coast businesses, non-profits, and local governments to address the pandemic were beneficial.

He stated that the amount of federal funding that has been approved for infrastructure, culture and recreation projects on the Coast was higher than for any other ridings in the province. Maintaining connections with local residents through efforts like Zoom calls were another area where the MP felt he has been successful.

When asked about help for Sechelt Hospital with

Persistent Bear On Nov. 16, a resident in the 1500 block of Thompson Road, Langdale, reported that a persistent bear was in the yard despite attempts to scare it off with an air horn. Police attended and noted a garbage bag containing empty milk cartons had been torn apart.

The resident, who had al-

ready received a Violation Ticket for Attracting Wildlife after making a recent similar bear complaint, was advised to remove the large collection of recyclables on the property.

Police have also notified the Conservation Officer Service.

Submitted by RCMP

The Local - Thursday, November 19, 2020 5

non-medical staffing shortages, Weiler said that Canada is looking to increase immigration by 50,000 persons by 2022. He said that 60 percent of the immigrants are to be in the “economic class,” immigrating to take on employment or establish businesses.

A long-term follow-up program is to focus on immigrants attracted as caregivers and their families with a review of regulations surrounding the participation of immigrants’ dependents in the workforce. Weiler also suggested that the work and compensation levels for people who work in childcare, and care aide functions, needs review. He would like to see this become a more attractive career choice for residents and immigrants.

An inquiry about improved federal funding for ferry services on the BC Coast evoked a response from Weiler that the province needs to take action to set this in motion.

He stated that the Canadian government provides funding to BC for ferry services under an agreement negotiated in 1977. That agreement is indexed to inflation and, in 2020, provided $32 million to the province. Weiler noted that the federal government has also provided tax breaks on the purchase of new ferries. He highlighted the federal safe re-start funding that helped offset the operational cost shortfalls at BC Ferries experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic as another form of federal support. Connie Jordison

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The Local - Thursday, November 19, 2020

Local

the

HEALTH & WELLNESS

How to manage financial stress for better mental health Although a constant worry for many of us, financial stress may be worse than ever during the pandemic.

With employers cutting jobs, businesses shutting down and demand for financial assistance programs increasing, our mental health is tak-

ing a hit.

Research shows that for those who are already living with mental health challenges such as dementia, depression or anxiety, managing personal finances can be even more difficult. Feelings of fear, anxiety and worry are

heightened.

Receiving professional help is one way to end the cycle around financial stress and mental health. Fortunately, there are free and low-cost ways to access this support and handle money stress.

There are many financial advisors, credit counsellors and financing agencies who

are prepared to help, and it’s important to always do your due diligence regarding their legitimacy and cost of service. Many of the same services are also provided for free from banking and credit institutions.

Attending free financial literacy workshops can also drastically improve your financial literacy, helping

you to take control of your finances. For example, ABC Life Literacy Canada’s Money Matters program is a free introductory financial literacy program for adult learners offering workshops on a variety of topics, including spending plans, banking basics, borrowing and ways to save. Workbooks are written at a grade four to six reading

level, making even the most complex financial topics more accessible.

In addition to workshops, adult learners can also access free financial literacy resources and online courses to improve their skills independently. Learn more and access free workbooks and activities at www.abcmoney matters.ca. NewsCanada

Easy ways to keep your immune system strong

There are free, low-cost ways to access support and handle money stress. NEWS CANADA PHOTO

For Better Sex, Health & Alignment

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Sunshine Coast Lifeline (604) 885-9501

32Year Non-Profit Organization www.comoxvalleylifeline.com

“Help at the push of a button”

Sunshine Coast Lifeline, Delivering a World of Care Peace of Mind for You & Your Family

The immune system is a powerful component of the human body. The immune system recognizes when viruses, bacteria and other foreign invaders enter or compromise the body, and then takes action to prevent illnesses from taking over.

The average person can help his or her immune system do its job more effectively by making the immune system as strong as it can be.

Harvard Medical School says that diet, exercise, age, and psychological stress may affect immune system response. Certain lifestyle choices can promote a strong immune system.

• Get adequate sleep. Doctors believe sleep and immunity are closely tied. A study of 164 healthy adults published by the National Institutes of Health found those who slept fewer than six hours each night were more likely to catch a cold than people who slept for more than six hours. Aim for adequate rest each night to keep your body in top form.

• Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables supply the powerhouse antioxidants that are essential for protecting a body against free radicals. Free radicals may play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases.

Serve fruits and/or vegetables with every meal to ensure you’re getting enough antioxidant-rich foods.

• Consume fiber and fermented foods. Fiber can help feed the gut microbiome, which is linked to a robust immune system. The microbiome also may prevent harmful pathogens from entering the body through the digestive tract. Data also suggests that eating more fermented foods can further strengthen and populate healthy bacteria in the gut.

• Exercise regularly. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate ex-

ercise per week, advises the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. Thirty minutes of exercise each day can go a long way toward keeping the body healthy. The U.S. National Library of Medicine says physical activity may help flush bacteria out of the lungs and airways. Exercise causes changes in antibodies and white blood cells. These antibodies and white blood cells circulate rapidly, so they may detect illnesses earlier than they would if you do not exercise. Body temperature also rises during exercise, which could naturally pre-

vent bacteria from growing.

• Try to minimize stress. According to Simply Psychology, when people are stressed, the immune system’s ability to fight off antigens is reduced, making people more susceptible to infections. The stress hormone corticosteroid can suppress the effectiveness of the immune system. Limiting stress through meditation and breathing exercises, or trying to remove stressors from one’s life, may help.

A healthy immune system is vital to fending off or recovering from illness.

Metro Creative

Certain lifestyle choices can promote a stronger immune system, vital to fending off or recovering from illness. METRO CREATIVE PHOTO

Salt Spring Island company approved to ship via drone Just like shipping parcels via plane or vehicle, there is now the capability to ship via drone.

A first in Canada, the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) has approved InDro Robotics Inc. to operate a domestic air service, using drones for the carriage of cargo.

“This permission until now has only ever been issued to airlines and paves the way for a (literally) much wider range of drone use,” says Philip Reece, CEO InDro Robotics Inc. “We have had several successful missions carrying medication and other health-related items to remote areas. This new license means we can ship anything up to 10 kg (other than people and animals) – important documents, artwork, jewels – basically anything a manned aircraft could.”

With the new cargo-carrying license, the InDro Heavy Lift Wayfinder Drone will ship increased cargo over longer distances. InDro has extended distances approval from Transport Canada for 25 km, and InDro’s researchers are working and hopeful this distance will expand to 200 km in the very near future.

“Our Canadian researchers and technologists, together with the efforts of the CTA and Transport Canada, continue to advance drone technology at a record pace,” said Reece. “We believe in the very near future, our aircraft will be able to travel further and with more weight load, expanding drone capabilities.”

Over the past few months, InDro Robotics has been working closely with regulators, air operators and the

Vancouver Island Health Authority to establish a rapid way of providing COVID-related drone support to a number of communities, hospitals and medical centres in British Columbia. And in 2019, InDro Robotics, together with Canada Post and

London Drugs, was the first to successfully test drone delivery of emergency medications over the Pacific Ocean.

The drone travelled over the Pacific 6 km in 11 minutes from Duncan to Salt Spring Island.

Submitted

A first in Canada, the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) has approved InDro Robotics Inc. to operate a domestic air service, using drones for the carriage of cargo. The drones can now ship cargo 25 km with research underway to be able to fly 200 km. INDRO ROBOTICS PHOTO

The Local - Thursday, November 19, 2020 7

NOV 26 DEC 3 DEC 10 5PM - 8PM

NOV 26 DEC 3 DEC 10 5PM - 8PM NOV 26 DEC 3 DECholiday 10 5PMlights - 8PM shopping music

shopping music holiday lights secheltdowntown.com shopping music holiday lights secheltdowntown.com secheltdowntown.com

8

The Local - Thursday, November 19, 2020

Local SERVICES, RESTAURANTS, RESORTS, SPORTS, ENTERTAINMENT, MUSIC

the

Local

the

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON THE SUNSHINE COAST... in Gibsons, Sechelt & Pender Harbour!

Thursday, November 19

Synergy

Kitchens & Baths

• Serendipity Christmas Craft Fair, featuring local artisans and crafters, (online to Dec. 13), https://serendipityfair.myshopify.com/

Sunshine Coast Closets

Quality Innovative Design Materials 3D Drawings Quick Turnaround Locally No MiddlemanManufactured 20+ Years Professional Installation Quality MaterialsExperience Locally Manufactured 20+ Years Experience

• SEWN’S Holiday Gift Guide: a virtual shop local event, 6-7:30pm, for info and registration go to www.sunshinesewn.com

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High End Cabinets at Wholesale Prices • Commercial New Home • Residential Renovations Residential • Commercial New Home • Renovations • DIY

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1877 Field Road, Unit 2, Wilson Creek (Sechelt) 604.740.3137 • www.synergykitchens.com

• One Straw Society AGM (online): updates and elections, 6:30pm, attend on Zoom at https://bit.ly/32wnDXY (Meeting ID: 852 6706 0346 / Password: straw)

Friday, November 20

• Zoom 10 Year Anniversary Art Exhibit: runs to Dec. 15, One Flower One Leaf Gallery, Sunnycrest Mall, 900 Gibsons Way, Gibsons, 10am-5pm, info at zoomartexhibit.ca • Little Hands (Pre-Schoolers 0-5): Outdoor creative play for families, the Arts Building, 464 S. Fletcher Rd, Gibsons, 10:30am-noon

• Coast  Fibre: Weekends only to Dec. 13, FibreWorks Studio & Gallery, 12887 Sunshine Coast Highway, Madeira Park, 11am-4pm, 604-883-2380

Saturday, November 21

• Farm Gate Holiday Market, Masonic Hall, 1319 Roberts Creek Road, Roberts Creek, 11am-4pm

Volunteers Needed

Our Christmas Kettle Campaign is coming soon

Are you looking for a rewarding experience this Holiday Season?

Become a Christmas Kettle volunteer—It’s a great way to give back to your community.

• Flexible shifts with no long-term commitment • Pick your own hours and days • Stay active, engage with others and meet new people • Easy, fun and rewarding Contact Us Today:

2 hour shifts throughout the Coast Sign up at sunshinecoastsa.ca or call 604-740-7331 or e-mail kettlecampaign@eastlink.ca

THANK YOU FOR RECYCLING THIS NEWSPAPER.

• Live Music Saturday and Sunday under the big-top, 12-2pm, Persephone Brewing, 1053 Stewart Road, Gibsons

• Zoom Clinics: Do you need help navigating Zoom? We can help, call 604-886-2130 or email gdplinfo@gibsons.bclibrary.ca to reserve a time, Gibsons & District Public Library, 2-4pm

• Live Music in the Atrium: Half Cut and the Slackers, Gibsons Public Market, 473 Gower Point Road, Gibsons, 2:30-4:30pm

• Literary Reading Series: Raoul Fernandes, online, 7-9pm, register at www.eventbrite.ca

Sunday, November 22

• Botanical Drawing Workshop with Mehran Modarres-Sadeghi (online), 10am-1pm, details at www.sunshinecoastartscouncil.com, tickets at www.eventbrite.ca

Innovative Design

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3D Drawings

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bed & bath collections

A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP IS A GREAT GIFT! 5668 Cowrie Street, Sechelt

Watch for deer – Rutting season is here Drivers are advised to be watchful of deer, elk and moose while travelling along roads and highways throughout BC, as rutting season increases these animals’ activity.

Rutting season is the annual mating time for deer, elk and moose. It occurs from late October to December, with the most activity seen in mid-November. During the rut, male deer show increased interest in female deer, as well as increased aggression toward other male

• Sundays at the Mill, Macgee Cloth Textile Mill open for tours, Roberts Creek, 1-4pm, to book a visit call Laurie at 604-885-8450 • Live Music: Poppa Greg, inside or on the patio at The Clubhouse Restaurant–Pender Harbour Golf Club, 2-5pm, 604-883-9542 to reserve a table

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

604-885-4893

FLICK.COM PHOTO

deer, often causing animals to move quickly with little regard for their surroundings.

As this season poses an increased risk for deer-vehicle collisions, travellers on BC highways are reminded to pay extra attention, especially when driving at dusk, dawn and night hours when these animals are most active.

According to ICBC, on average, there are 11,000 animal-involved collisions in the province each year.

Submitted

The Local - Thursday, November 19, 2020 9

Mayor’s Message Darnelda Siegers Mayor, District of Sechelt

“The District should…”

Have you ever said that?

Yes, it is that time of year again. We are heading into conversations about the 2021 budget, so now is a good time to review what we have, what we do and what we want.

On behalf of the community in 2020, the District donated $120,000 to local non-profits through our Community Investment Program, $72,400 to Sunshine Coast non-profits as part of our Community Forest Legacy grant program

and $50,000 to the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation for COVID-19 relief. In addition to all of this, we also forgave property taxes to non-profits to the tune of $200,000.

Our operating budget in 2020 was just over $13.3 million. About $5.8 million goes to salaries and benefits and another $5.8 for contracted services (includes RCMP), and materials and supplies associated with the District’s ability to operate. Our operations include services like parks, road maintenance, buildings operations and maintenance, community events, equipment maintenance, technology, supplies, sewer operations, storm

sewers and other general infrastructure operations.

In addition to our operating budget, we have a capital budget. Some of this budget comes from development cost charges, tax revenue and our reserves, but we actively watch for and apply for grants that are a good fit for the capital projects. Grants make up a very large portion of this budget so we can replace equipment, improve roads, replace sewer lines, and improve our facilities. That few blocks of Trail Avenue we did this year included sidewalk, bike lanes, new sewer lines and repaving, and it cost just over $6.2 million. Most of this expense was covered by Development Cost Charges and

Real Estate Market Minute

Tony Browton RE/MAX City Realty

With concerns about the spread of COVID-19, the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (of which the Sunshine Coast is part) strongly recommends that realtors refrain from holding open houses. They are making this recommendation after consulting with the broker community and assessing the latest information and commentary from public health and other government authorities.

“It’s important that all of us in the real estate profession do our part to help prevent the further spread of illness in our communities,” Ashley Smith, REBGV president, said.

“This is one step we can and should all take immediately as good corporate citizens.”

Showings are still allowed in tenanted properties as long as COVID-19 protocols are followed. Realtors representing landlords looking to sell are encouraged to use technology such as floor plans, professional photo’s and virtual tours to minimize the impact on tenants.

This is good practice even when there isn’t a pandemic as it eliminates unnecessary

Books & Beyond Heather Evans-Cullen

Library Director, Gibsons and District Public Library

Recently I read an anonymous quote about this year that resonated with me: “2020 is not the year to get everything you want; it is the year to appreciate everything you have.” While we continue to face a spectrum of individual and community challenges from the pandemic, I find these words helpful. At the library, our staff dearly misses being a gathering place and the robust activity within our space that occurred pre-COVID. When we shift our focus to gratitude, the

METRO CREATIVE PHOTO

showings.

In keeping with the social distancing recommendations from health care officials, realtors are encouraged to use strict control measures to limit the number of people who view a home at one time, ask participants to sanitize their hands before and after a showing and encourage them to avoid touching doorknobs and other surfaces in the property. Masks are also mandatory.

Much like what happened earlier in the year, I expect these new or re-applied restrictions to fuel a busy spring market. A vaccine is not expected to be readily available in the short-term but, even if it was, that will not stop families migrating to the Sunshine Coast.

Now that parents with Vancouver-based jobs don’t

have to report to a centralized office, the ferries are no longer a barrier to our market and buying here has become a viable option. This demographic will grow and eventually surpass the retirees that have always migrated to the Coast.

On the commercial side of things, we are seeing an increased demand for small office spaces as companies are giving employees allowances to rent local space.

There are also more buyers looking at buying businesses and leasing space as part of the BC PNP – Regional Pilot programs on the Coast.

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.

magic of the library prevails in the continued connections and growth patrons feel with each other and themselves through reading, learning and expanding.

I am grateful to work in a place that celebrates and protects the right to have differences of opinion. We strive to ensure our collection of books, DVDs, magazines, and databases reflect the diverse perspectives, interests and tastes of our community. As we are required to spend more time at home, and are restricted from many of our usual activities, there is an opportunity to find solace in reading, listening to an audiobook or watching an independent film on Kanopy.

Our library programming has primarily moved online for the time being: check our website for the full event calendar that includes weekly Storytimes with Pippa, Teen and Tween Book Clubs, Conversational Language classes, Movie Club, Open Microphone nights and more.

We are also offering COVID safe individual clinics in our Plexiglas vestibule on topics such as how to effectively use Zoom. Please know we want to be as helpful and supportive as possible to our community at this demanding time – call us at 604 -8862130 and/or check out our website at www.gibsons.bc library.coop. Take care!

the rest from our reserves, but we have applied for a grant to help with the costs of phase two next year.

In the next few weeks, we will start conversations on social media about what we do. There will be information provided on our website and in advertisements in the local paper. We will talk about big picture things and get down to the details like flowerpots and potholes. There will be some surveys and commu-

Horoscope Michael O’Connor Astrologer

Tip of the Week: The Scorpio New Moon that occurred on Nov. 14-15, depending on your location, comes to its first-quarter this weekend. This translates to reveal a waxing half-moon. Woven within its folds is a situation of fixed perceptions and attitudes due to a stressful aspect between Mercury and Uranus.

Meanwhile, Mars in Aries is accelerating towards an exact square with Pluto which could well manifest as military action. Yet, Venus still in Libra will support some measure of diplomacy, softening the edge of the otherwise charged atmosphere. So, the result is likely to be more passiveaggressive.

On a more positive note, there is a silver lining of creative inspiration in this lunation cycle. Among other things, Scorpio is symbolic of the principal and act of creative design. Venus also contributes to the impulse to emphasize beauty. So now is a good time to take a break from all the intrigue and propaganda that have become a new norm and redirect your focus to creative projects.

Aries (Mar. 21-Apr. 19) A deep and passionate mood continues and deepens. This includes a strong determination for taking pioneering leads. In some respects, your desire may come across at aggressive, even ruthless. Yet, something must give. What is in the way, or who? Venus in Libra represents both diplomatic approaches and romantic overtones. All the features of a good old spy story are there!

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) Life is all about relationships and this has been an important theme focus lately, and it will continue.

It includes finding a place for your beliefs and philosophies and your worldly ambitions too. The biggest obstacle may be that others do not see things as you do and are not willing to. It is the willing part that runs directly into matters of respect, a cornerstone of true harmony.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) If you think your convictions are strong now, you

nity meetings over Zoom.

Unfortunately, there won’t be any meetings in person.

We invite you to comment on Facebook, take a survey or just drop us an email to tell us what you think. We hope you will learn more about what your local government does and tell us what you are willing to do without and what you are willing to pay more for. These are YOUR services and YOUR buildings and roads and YOUR taxes. Have

your say.

A 1% property tax increase will cost the average property owner $16.20 a year, and it provides the District with about $96,000.

So, the next time you say, “the District should…” think about what it will cost, what you are willing to pay for it or what you would like to do without so we can afford it.

We look forward to an interesting and engaging dialogue over the next few months.

may be in for a surprise. A whole new cycle is fast approaching that will powerfully awaken your spirit. It will reveal to you a much larger vision for freedom and truth. You may be challenged to break free of previously held beliefs and self-concepts and this is where the real work is likely to occur.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) A creative cycle has been underway and now it is about to take a deeper plunge. This next phase will require more effort, however. Positively, you will produce results to be proud of.

Some measure of training is featured and it may go both ways: both giving and receiving instruction. As well, you may receive the goahead from powerful sources leading to expansion.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23) An introverted cycle will continue yet shift to encompass a much more creative focus. A learning curve is implied and you may have to make extra efforts to break free of self-doubt and lack of confidence. As the old saying goes, ‘the journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step.

Cultivating a vision of victory in which you overcome enemies and obstacles will help.

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sept. 22) Your perspectives on reality have been deepening by the day. They are leading you to a colder and firmer grip on how the world works and what is going on.

You are meant to learn that there are those who desire wealth and power above all, those who would forego it all for the sake of truth, and those in-between who are not so passionately focused on either and whose allegiance the other two want.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) You have been in a powerful process of change for years. Many mini-chapters, each revealing your strengths, yet also revealing the instability and impermanence of life, continue.

Positively, you feel more confident. Yet, your fears have been awakened, as well. How you respond to these fears will reveal your core strengths and character. Recognize fear and ambition and choose truth and virtue.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Last week’s Scorpio New Moon is invariably activating changes both in your

approach and situation. The Mars factor suggests that you have work to do. The Pluto factor indicates challenges to reconsider previously held perspectives and interpretations. Doing so may prove challenging, yet liberating, as well. You are on the eve of building new foundations which will require grit and grace.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) A powerful seed of change is germinating in the back of your mind. It is linked to family and security. The pace is likely to accelerate starting now.

Get ready to multi-task as things start moving fast in the coming weeks. This will include gathering new knowledge and keeping up with the rapidly-changing times. Positively, you are in a sporting mood and ready for the games to begin!

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) A seed of power is being planted in your friendship life. It could well result in invitations to get involved with groups and clubs of some kind. These will come with an inner work process which leads to a clearer expression of your authenticity. It will include the acquisition of new tools, techniques, technology and/or methods. All of the above will lend to feeling more secure and abundant.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) One way or another, you are gearing up to what might be described as a whole new level and expression of your executive.

It will include a strong theme of individuality and doing it your way, which will grow steadily over the coming weeks and months.

This is just the preliminary stage process. It does include both an assertion of your will to be free and to be creative.

Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) New visions of reality and possibility regarding the future are emerging in your mind. These include themes of truth and higher principles. Some of your ambition is linked to taking new leads and strides. You will feel inspired to make plans and outline designs and these could well lend directly to stimulating new streams of income. This is a call to get organized and get things done! michael@sunstarastrology.com

10

The Local - Thursday, November 19, 2020

admin@thelocalweekly.ca WORK WANTED

SERVICE DIRECTORY

FOR HIRE - PROFESSIONAL GARDENER / certified horticulturalist. Offering landscape consultation, maintenance, renovation, small construction projects, & design plans. Hard working & reliable. Serving Roberts Creek & Gibsons.

Limited availability. Ryan 604-886-3552

Windows • Gutters Hand Siding Scrub & Pressure Wash callTheBoys.ca

604-885-0661 FREE EST. ~ WCB

WANTED!

Motorhomes Travel Trailers Camper Vans

604-886-7341 Get $ CASH $ today and I’ll take it away.

SERVICE DIRECTORY

PRO PAINTER CUSTOM HOMES & RENOVATIONS

EMPLOYMENT

WANTED

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Interior ~ Exterior Professional Painter

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Old Weapons, Hunting & Military Items In Any Condition.

Ph: 604-740-6474 Top Cash Paid!

EMPLOYMENT

604.886.1804

NOW HIRING!

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EMPLOYMENT

Pender Harbour Automotive and Tire is currently looking for either a Licensed Mechanic and/or a Second or Third Year Apprentice.

IS THIS YOU?

A long-standing, local Kamloops company is looking for you – a talented, motivated sales professional who wants to make more money year over year, have a Monday to Friday daytime career working with local businesses, and has a passion for growing personal knowledge through self paced learning modules and by utilizing our coaching network along the way.

You have a strong customer-service focus and can liaise with the fulfillment team to ensure that customer expectations are met. You have excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills and have a good understanding of the Microsoft Office Suite. You are focused on results and you love winning almost as much as you hate losing. Familiarity with online analytics would be an asset.

You would enjoy working with a well-established brand with strong client relationships and the opportunity to take them to the next level. You also have the backing of a top-level support team to make your plans for your clients come to life.

You value an organization with family values and honesty at its core and love the idea of benefits and a pension to support your loved ones into the future.

Tire experience would be an asset.

BCDL is required.

NOW HIRING:

Residential, Community and Youth Worker DAYS & HOURS: Various shifts (weekdays, weekends, overnights, days and nights) WAGE: Starting wage $20.52 LOCATION: Sechelt, (Numerous locations) WE OFFER: Extensive hands-On Training, Supportive Unionized Work Environment. Opportunities for Advancement. Variety of Shift Options. Employee and Family Assistance Program. MSP, Dental and Extended Health and Municipal Pension Plan JOB DESCRIPTION: Assist clients to live successfully in the community and in SCACL residential settings. Ensures that client’s physical, emotional, social, educational, and medical needs are met. Assist clients to enhance quality of life with activities of daily living and the development of life skills.

Provide Personal care to individuals.

QUALIFICATIONS: Class 5 driver’s license (permanent staff must be willing to obtain Class 4), First Aid and CPR Certificate, Clear criminal record, Clean driver’s abstract, Community care worker certificate, HCA certificate or related certificate or a diploma in the related human social services preferred, Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Training, Knowledge of Person Centered Active Supports HOW TO APPLY: Please send resume to Human Resource Manager, Laurie Maguire - Lmagu@scacl.ca or in person at Suite #105 - 5711 Mermaid Street, Sechelt, BC

Bring your resume into the shop: 13544 Sunshine Coast Hwy, Garden Bay

EMPLOYMENT

PUBLISHER

PRINT & DIGITAL EDITOR

Did we just describe you? If so, let’s talk.

Send your resume and a letter to: Chris Wilson Digital Sales Manager KTW Digital is part of the chris@ktwdigital.com

Aberdeen Publishing Group

STAND OUT

from the crowd!

Advertise in

The Jasper Fitzhugh has a position available for a Publisher.

We are looking for an individual with the following attributes: • A demonstrated ability in sales; • The ability to continuously improve our print and digital products; • The ability to work on Apple products with a variety of software platforms; • A genuine interest in people. The desire to help people to improve their skills and elevate the quality of their work; • The ability to make clear decisions and communicate them effectively; • The ability to adhere to deadlines in a time sensitive environment.

The Jasper Fitzhugh is looking for a full-time Print and Digital Editor to manage our news operation.

We have a news site - www.fitzhugh.ca - that we update daily, and a weekly community newspaper serving Jasper and the surrounding area. We also publish various speciality products produced on an annual basis.

The successful candidate works well in a team setting, but is self-motivated. You must be community minded, have positive energy, and be a good storyteller within Canadian Press style guidelines.

You have to be organized, and able to give clear direction to editorial staff or freelancers.

The position will have overall general management orientation with profit and loss responsibility.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Journalism education: Degree, diploma or certificate; or equivalent work experience.

• Ability to organize work and give direction to others in order to meet deadlines.

• Ability to work collaboratively with the other members of the management team.

• Experience in Adobe Creative Suite and posting to social media.

A background in newspaper publishing is desirable but not essential. For example, the position may appeal to individuals with experience in marketing, retail sales management or teaching.

We will provide training for the suitable candidate.

This is a one year term position to fill in for a maternity leave.

If necessary we can extend the term longer than one year, but it may require varying the duties.

The company offers competitive benefit and pension plans.

The position is available immediately with a start date no later than January 11, 2021.

The position is based in our office at 612 Connaught Drive, Jasper.

The position is available immediately and must start no later than January 11, 2021. Initially the position is for a one year term to fill a maternity leave, but the term can be extended for the right candidate.

Please send a letter indicating your interest, along with a CV to; Fuchsia Dragon, Publisher, The Fitzhugh PO Box 428, Jasper, AB, T0E 1E0 Email: publisher@fitzhugh.ca

CALL TODAY!

604-885-3134

sales@thelocalweekly.ca

Interested candidates should forward their resume to: publisher@fitzhugh.ca

WE ACCEPT CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING AT: #213-5710 Teredo Street, Sechelt • BY PHONE: 604-885-3134 • BY EMAIL: admin@thelocalweekly.ca

AD DEADLINE NOON MONDAY AT THE OFFICE

Due to COVID-19 restrictions initial interviews may be conducted over Zoom.

• Private: 10 words 2 weeks $14.99 +GST • Business: 10 words 1 week $14.99+GST +GST

25¢ each additional word

The Local - Thursday, November 19, 2020 11

HERE TO SERVE YOU DIAMOND BUYER

• • • •

MORTGAGE SERVICES

SUNCO Mortgage Corporation

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BUYER

STORAGE SOLUTIONS

•

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Best rates in town. We beat any price!

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NOTARY SERVICES

WINDOW COVERINGS

AD CONFIRMATION PLEASE RESPOND BY EMAIL BY

3PM WEDNESDAY

This proof is for the purpose of TYPOGRAPHICAL CORRECTIONS

1/18 PAGE

AD SIZE BOOKED

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CALL 778-918-7910 TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT!

Portrait of Louis Riel 1883.

for Métis people and strove for justice. But today and every day, let’s work together to understand our shared history so we can build a better future for everyone.”

Submitted

LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES CANADA PHOTO

CROSSWORD ACROSS

1. Ballroom dance 6. Fuss 9. Leading actor 13. Ablaze 14. Whelp 15. Physical energy 16. Large bird 17. Witness 18. Decorate 19. Act as president 21. Connected 23. Pig pen 24. Sodium Chloride 25. Seafarer 28. Indirect suggestion 30. Felt hat 35. Musical work 37. Close 39. Push back 40. Part of the neck 41. Complete range 43. Strain 44. Avarice 46. Roofing material 47. Leg joint 48. Three-dimensional sound effect 50. Tide 52. Make a mistake 53. Supplication 55. Drunkard 57. Poisonous organic compound 61. Withdrew 65. System of reasoning 66. Fish eggs 68. Nimble 69. Representative 70. Anger 71. Taut or rigid

72. Walk through water 73. Snakelike fish 74. Command DOWN

1. Bend out of shape 2. A great distance 3. Exist 4. Braid 5. Celestial point opposite the nadir 6. Part of a church 7. Owed and immediately payable 8. Musical drama 9. Pop 10. Slow running pace 11. Unit of area

12. Rip 15. Waver 20. Perishing 22. Kind of fairy 24. Staying power 25. Holding device 26. Separated 27. Currency of India 29. Orderly 31. Writing table 32. Speak up 33. Cite 34. Change 36. Oracle 38. Reign 42. Annoy persistently

45. Portray 49. Past times 51. Edible tuber 54. Spooky 56. Large feline 57. Talon 58. System of exercises for body and mind 59. Matured 60. The cube of three 61. Highland dance 62. Peel 63. Additional or different to this 64. Cervid animal 67. Metal-bearing mineral

Solution page 10 Courtesy of: puzzlechoice.com

Your first choice in foods Trail Bay Centre • 5755 Cowrie Street, Sechelt

69

ND

A

@TheLocalWeekly

• Meat & Deli 604-885-9812 • Produce & Floral 604-885-9841 • Bakery 604-885-9823 • Office 604-885-2025

CALLY OW LO

YEARS

of service

E

D

Nation Relationship Accord II and the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. “Today, we recognize Louis Riel’s place in history as a civil rights leader who advocated

D NE

Premier Horgan issued the following statement this week to mark Louis Riel Day: “Each year on Nov. 16, we observe Louis Riel Day and acknowledge the importance of Louis Riel (1844-85) as a political leader and advocate of justice for the Métis people.

“Riel was a champion of Métis rights who paid the ultimate price in his crusade to have Métis people accepted as equals in Canada. Today, he is recognized as a founder of the province of Manitoba and a key contributor to Canadian confederation.

“On Louis Riel Day, we acknowledge the work of an important historic figure and the sacrifice he made to create a future for Métis people across the country. We also recognize the significant contributions of Métis people to communities throughout the province and to the very cultural fabric of British Columbia.

‘We celebrate the 90,000 Métis people who call British Columbia home – who are embracing their Métis heritage and reclaiming their history, culture and identity. That is Louis Riel’s legacy. This government is building on it with our reconciliation work with Métis people, through the Métis

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

100%

Premier’s statement on Louis Riel Day

O P E R AT

12

The Local - Thursday, November 19, 2020

SALE EXTENDED THROUGH TO

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3

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MORE THAN EVER, NOW IS THE TIME TO SUPPORT OUR

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30% OF PROCEEDS FROM NOV 19TH TO NOV 23RD WILL GO TO THE SUNSHINE COAST FOOD BANK. FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

BY DECEMBER 20TH. BARTERDESIGN.CA

Local businesses are smaller, safer and closer to home, and they need your support more than ever this holiday season. Many of our local merchants have implemented services like curbside pickup, online shopping, contact-free payment and home delivery for your convenience, and enhanced cleaning protocols are in place for safer in-person shopping. See what your favorite local businesses have in store this Christmas by visiting them in person, online or on social media!

CODE : SHARE2020

BOOK A SPOT IN THIS SPECIAL FEATURE TODAY: 604-885-3134 or sales@thelocalweekly.ca

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