The Local Weekly November 26, 2020

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Volume 19, Issue 47

WEEKLY COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Sunshine Coast, British Columbia • www.thelocalweekly.ca • Thursday, November 26, 2020 COVID-19 Updates Page 6

STR Update Page 3

Wilson Creek Renaming

Dynamic Duo

Page 3

Hillcrest Holdup Page 5

Shop Local This Christmas Pages 8 & 9

Storms Surge Page 12

Foundation Buys Island Page 13

Look for this insert:

Home Hardware

Oliver Sterczyk, B.Ed, MC Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC)

Confidential Discreet No quota Sliding fee scale

Covered under many extended health plans 604-993-0080 oliver@oliversterczyk.com www.oliversterczyk.com

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Meet Cst. Kyle Hrynyk and 19-month-old Marlow – the Sunshine Coast RCMP’s newest furry canine recruit. Both just returned from Innisfail, Alberta, after graduating from the Police Dog Service Training Centre, where Marlow had been honing her tracking and searching skills. Her skills were put to good use this past Sunday when she and Cst. Hrynyk were called into action after a suspect stole a Dodge Ram pickup truck from Davis Bay. The suspect proceeded to smash through a gated property in Selma Park before driving erratically to West Sechelt, where he collided with a tree off of Reeves Road. The man then fled naked, on foot, from police. The dynamic police duo tracked the suspect and led police to a boat that the suspect was hiding in on a private residential property, leading to an arrest. What a first week for Marlow! RCMP PHOTO

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The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020

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The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020 3

Gibsons scrambles to shelter homeless Gibsons council and community groups previously involved with shelter services for the community’s homeless are to meet shortly to discuss options for the 2020/21 winter season.

Mayor Bill Beamish tasked staff with making the short-notice meeting arrangements at the Nov. 17 council meeting. They were asked to contact BC Housing, RainCity, the Gibsons Public Library and possibly others to participate. Beamish said he made the request as the Town has been advised that RainCity, which operated the Town’s homeless shelter last year, would not be organizing that service for the upcoming winter months.

“We can’t leave people out in the cold,” said Beamish.

He said that the province’s supportive housing building on School Road will not be

ready for occupancy until the first quarter of 2021. He also noted that not all individuals who are homeless will qualify for housing at that facility.

The Town does not have a location identified for the potential shelter.

At a committee meeting held earlier on Nov. 17, council members received a report from Lorraine Coughlin, the Town’s finance director, regarding the provincial COVID-19 Safe Restart grant.

Gibsons will be receiving just over $1.5 million in funding under that program. In her report, Coughlin explained that the money is to be used “to support the Town as we deal with operating costs and lower revenue due to COVID-19 and ensure that we can continue to deliver services to residents.”

During that meeting,

Beamish suggested that funding a cold-weather shelter could be one use for a portion of that grant. Councillor Annemarie De Andrade suggested that funding the purchase of a commercial-grade freezer for the Harmony Hall seniors’ group was another project that could be considered. That group provides affordable healthy meals to seniors at the cost of about seven dollars a serving.

Councillor David Croal said that if the Town were to be using a portion of the grant to fund initiatives by community groups, a request for proposals should be issued so that all are aware of the opportunity.

A follow-up staff report on Gibsons’ use of its COVID-19 Safe Restart grant has been requested.

Connie Jordison

ts'ukw'um name supported by Sechelt Sechelt’s support for the renaming of Wilson Creek to the traditional word for the creek and area, ts'ukw'um, will be provided to the BC Geographical Names Office.

Earlier this year, that office asked for comment from local governments for a number of local name changes requested by the shíshálh Nation.

Sechelt council authorized issuing a letter of support for the Wilson Creek renaming at its Nov. 18 meeting.

In July, the SCRD asked for an extension to Dec. 31 to comment on re-namings requested in the Pender Harbour area. In conjunction with seeking more time to comment, the SCRD asked for provincial assistance with organizing an online Town Hall

style meeting for the community to discuss the matter.

Pender Harbour SCRD Area Director Leonard Lee stated that the province has not yet been able to set up that session. He said he believes the SCRD will have to request an additional extension into 2021 to the comment deadline, “as there is a desire by all participants to find an agreed-upon solution.”

At the time the extension was requested, the board also asked its staff to look into provincial funding that could be available to conduct “community to community” discussions with the First Nation. Those details have not come forward to date.

The SCRD has two regular board meeting dates re-

maining in 2020, Nov. 26 and Dec. 10.

During the discussion of Sechelt’s support for renaming efforts, it was noted that council and staff members of the shíshálh and the District recently attended an event where background on the historical significance of place names was shared.

In 2018, the province signed a landmark reconciliation agreement with the shíshálh Nation, which included a commitment to install dual-language highway and road signage in appropriate locations. Signage along Highway 101 was updated to reflect shíshálh place names earlier in 2020.

Connie Jordison

Update to Gibsons’ STR debate Clarity and rules for shortterm rentals (STRs) became a more distant hope for the Town after its Nov. 17 council meeting. The Town has a draft zoning bylaw amendment that puts STR regulations in place at second reading. At the meeting, council was asked to endorse the staff amendment of that bylaw before it was to be considered for third reading.

Those changes were the result of committee discussions that followed public hearing input. Rather than request the adjustments, council added another consideration and sent the bylaw back to committee for further debate.

Councillor Aleria Ladwig asked that limiting STR operations to principal residenc-

es also be considered. She noted that on Nov. 17, the District of Squamish adopted a bylaw amendment making this restriction on STRs in that community. Ladwig stated that a priority factor in the decision was protecting that area’s supply of longterm rentals. She said that if Gibsons considered a similar approach, it would protect houses, garden suites and coach-houses available for rent as part of the accommodation options available to community members.

Other adjustments council wants to see discussed relate to unhosted STRs. They want to consider restricting ownership of unhosted units to one per owner. Discussion of requiring owners to reside

within a reasonable driving distance of any unhosted unit and limiting of the number of days that an unhosted STR can be rented was also requested.

Councillor Stafford Lumley said the STR issue was “like a bouncing ball that just won’t stop.” He stated that more information is needed on what the issues actually are with STRs in the community so that decisions that address real problems can be made.

While in favour of referring the bylaw back to committee, Lumley wants that issue as the only item on the agenda for that meeting. He said he believes the debate will require a considerable amount of time.

Connie Jordison

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The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020

Editorial Opinion

Weekly Cartoon

Ban plastic beverage containers What we refer to as “plastic” hasn’t been around for long.

But its usefulness has caused production to skyrocket – from about two million tonnes in 1950 to almost 400 million tonnes a year now. It’s a problem.

Although much of it can be recycled, most isn’t. That’s led many local and national governments worldwide to ban or consider bans on non-essential “single-use” plastics. Canada plans to prohibit many items by the end of 2021. Plastic grocery bags, cutlery, straws and stir sticks, beverage-pack rings and a few more items will be prohibited. Garbage bags, snack-food wrappers and beverage containers won’t.

The exemption for beverage containers, in particular, is controversial. Many argue they’re unnecessary and are petitioning government to include them. Others note that bottled water is sometimes needed in emergency situations.

And some communities, especially Indigenous communities, still lack access to safe tap water.

The federal government, which is accepting public input on the issue until Dec. 9, says beverage containers won’t be included in the proposal for the ban’s “first wave” because they’re easy to recover and recycle and are necessary in communities that don’t have access to clean water. It’s proposing recycled content requirements for plastics not subject to the ban, but the focus ought to be on reducing plastic packaging in the first place.

Recycling requires a lot of energy, and plastic polymers break down in the recycling process. That, along with low fossil fuel prices, makes new oil-derived materials more cost-effective than recycled plastic. But it takes more water to create a plastic bottle than the bottle will hold, and the energy required to produce a bottle of water is 2,000 times that to produce the same amount of tap water.

We must prioritize “reduce and reuse” if we’re going to make progress toward zero waste. The truth is we don’t need most of the sweetened beverages sold in single-use plastics, and our bodies might be better off without them!

Water is the exception. But Canada has the infrastructure to provide high-quality tap water to most communities at a much lower cost than bottled water. Tap water is also far more regulated and tested than bottled water, which can contain microplastics and other contamination. In fact, most bottled water is obtained from municipal or public water supplies, at little or no cost to corporations like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo and Nestlé.

At the very least, all single-portion plastic beverage containers should be banned, and no effort should be spared to ensure everyone in Canada has access to safe tap water.

Canada is fortunate to have plentiful water and the capacity and knowledge to deliver it to people. David Suzuki

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Letters to the Editor – Opinions Time for a change Annette Clark and recently David Suzuki put their fingers into a deep open wound.

Do we really need another Babylon to finally wake up? Religious or not, many of us have heard about the narrative/myth “The Tower of Babel.” People were building a city with a tower tall enough to reach into heaven. They reached a point where nothing was stopping them. There seemed to be no boundaries anymore. As a result, their language was confounded, and they were left with the inability to understand one another’s speech.

Is this where we are heading, or are we already there?

How much more can our beautiful planet Earth take?

Silently with a long sigh, she has been bouncing back, but there are more than just a few tears “running down her face.”

Isn’t it enough that millions of our wild animal population are already extinct? Isn’t it enough that by clearcutting our natural forests, we are losing our natural assets, which are also our oxygen reservoirs? Isn’t it enough that our oceans are polluted with plastic and other harmful substances? Isn’t it enough that we breathe and consume glyphosate, aluminum and other heavy metals every day? Is the plan to extinct ourselves by exploiting our planet in such an unacceptable way?

When is enough – enough? Maybe now is the time for a change.

In my opinion, the real virus, the most dangerous virus of all, are we, the human race. We all together have created this crisis we are in, with our selfishness, greed, arrogance, and igno-

rance by wanting more and more. The good thing is, if we are the creators of this crisis, then we are also the creators of its solutions. If we want a change, we have to be the change as everything starts with us.

Anke Scheffler, Halfmoon Bay

A living wage (Open letter to the Federal Minister of Labour) Workers on the frontlines of this pandemic are getting us through this pandemic.

We’ve seen how essential these workers are, yet many are working in low-wage, precarious jobs.

It’s clear that creating better jobs must be a central element of how we move forward together.

To create better jobs and provide essential frontline workers with permanently higher wages, governments must guarantee a living wage for low-wage workers in all jurisdictions. As a first step, the federal government should immediately implement its promised $15 an hour minimum wage.

The federal government has taken leadership in many ways to protect workers throughout these challenging times. It’s time to follow through on your government’s commitment to create a federal minimum wage.

No one working a fulltime job should be living below the poverty line. Lowwage, insecure, part-time jobs are no way to build a better future for this country.

Setting a $15 federal minimum wage standard will show leadership, raise the bar and put pressure on the provinces to follow suit. It will also improve the lives of young workers, women, and racialized Canadians too.

They are disproportionate-

ly represented among lowwage workers.

The time is right to bring decent wages for all.

Miyuki Shinkai, VP Sunshine Coast Labour Council

Kettle campaign 2020 COVID-19 regulations and pandemic concerns have put an extra strain on individuals and families in our community who are vulnerable. Many people have had to turn to us for help for the first time. Throughout it all, we have experienced amazing community support and encouragement. We continue to provide take-home lunches twice a week, daily bread and produce distribution, monthly food hampers and food delivery for people who are at higher risk.

One hundred percent of the kettle funds raised go to those in need on the Sunshine Coast.

In the past year, The Salvation Army Sunshine Coast Ministries has served over 4,000 hot meals to community members, welcomed over 9,000 visits to our Bread and Produce distribution, provided over 1,000 food hampers to adults and families, and over $3,000 in vouchers were provided in clothing and household items from our thrift stores in Gibsons and Sechelt.

Due to pandemic concerns, many of our regular volunteers are unable to host kettles this year. With the 2020 Kettle Campaign, which got underway last

Friday, there is concern about organizing the fundraising logistics to raise the necessary funds needed at the Ministry Unit. We are asking the community for help.

Individuals can: • Sign up as a kettle host for one or more two-hour shifts at one of the six locations • Donate to the campaign at one of the six locations Groups can: • Sign up and organize your group for a day at one or more of the six locations • Sponsor $500 or co-sponsor $250 a kettle at one or more of the six locations (staffing the kettle is optional) Businesses can: • Match the kettle funds on one or more days at one of the six locations (staffing the kettle is optional) • Sponsor $500 or co-sponsor $250 a kettle at one or more of the six locations (staffing the kettle is optional) • Sign up and organize your business for a day at one or more at one of the six locations You can sign-up for kettle shifts at sunshinecoastsa. ca/kettles, e-mail kettlecampagin@eastlink.ca or call us at 604-740-7331.

On behalf of our clients, volunteers and staff, we are grateful for any and all the help and support from the Sunshine Coast community.

Darrell Pilgrim, The Salvation Army Sunshine Coast Kettle Coordinator/ Ministry Director

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.

Setbacks stall Hillcrest townhouses Architect Zubin Billimoria has been asked to take a third try at the layout of a proposed 20-unit townhouse development for 741 Hillcrest Road in Gibsons. At its Nov. 17 meeting, Gibsons council rejected a proposed development permit for the site after hearing objections from residents of a neighbouring property.

The Town’s Planning and Community Development Committee recommended council consider issuing the permit following public consultation. That recommendation was made in October. A month earlier, the committee sent a proposal back to the developer for revisions to reduce the mass of the multi-unit structures planned for the site. The developer responded with a design that changed the concept from three larger to six smaller sized structures.

Accomplishing that would require side yard setbacks to fit the development onto the lot. That idea was viewed favourably by council and was made available for community comment.

More than 20 submissions

in opposition to the proposal were sent to the Town by neighbouring property owners. Resident of an adjacent townhouse development, Val Labrecque, spoke at the council meeting on behalf of her complex. In their view, allowing the new development to reduce the setback from the lot line dividing the two properties would negatively impact the quality of life for residents of both properties. She asked council why it would allow this while it was investing efforts in new ‘quality of life’ bylaws such as tree protection and noise abatement. She also pointed out that the site drawings presented with the

new proposal misrepresented the green space between the subject property and the adjacent lot as larger than it is.

Council members thanked Labrecque for her presentation and her detailed written submission. The motion related to the permit issuance was not endorsed, and the development will be sent back to the Town’s planning department for further review with the developer.

In response to the discussions at the meeting, Billimoria stated that additional design refinements may be possible to reduce the side yard setbacks required.

Connie Jordison

DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF

SNOW PURCHASE YOUR DAKOTA RIDGE SEASON PASS AND RECEIVE 10% OFF UNTIL DECEMBER 11.

Season passes are available for purchase online at

www.scrd.ca/ Dakota-Ridge Hillcrest – artists concept of revised design. TOWN SUBMISSION

BEAUTIFUL

Sani-dump on Sechelt’s tourism wishlist Sechelt, Gibsons and Powell River are eligible for up to $1 million each in funding from the Province’s $19.4 million Tourism Dependent Communities Fund (TDCF).

At its Nov. 18 meeting, Sechelt council supported a list of eight projects that staff recommended be included in an application to that grant program.

Thirty-three BC communities are eligible for this funding. The amount of funds that will be awarded will depend on the number of initiatives approved. Sechelt’s Communications Manager, Julie Rogers, said that it is anticipated the Province will announce the TDCF grant awards early in 2021.

The TDCF was established to help tourism-dependent communities create jobs and support economic development and recovery from COVID‐19 impacts. It will do this by growing area tourism markets with investments in infrastructure that serves or attracts visitors.

Sechelt’s application will include requests for eight projects totalling $900,000.

The project receiving the most council attention at the meeting was a proposal to spend $117,000 on a wastewater collection point or ‘sani-dump’ for recreational vehicles. Rogers noted that one complication with that project was that a location for the potential amenity had not yet been identified.

There is no public sanidump facility in the area. One formerly located at Porpoise Bay Provincial Park closed in 2001. During debate on Sechelt’s Water Resource Centre’s design in 2011, the addition

The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020 5

of a sani-dump in that development was considered but ultimately not included.

Other projects on Sechelt’s TDCF application are improvements to the walkway on the boulevard along Trail Bay. Updating directional signage, improvements at Hackett Park, upgrading of Rockwood Park washroom facilities and installing solar lighting for the “Welcome to Sechelt” signage are also on the list. Another project included is the installation of storm watch cameras in Davis Bay and Trail Bay that would stream video to the District and Sunshine Coast Tourism websites. Replacement of the District’s portable display walls, used for art shows and events, rounds out the list of application projects.

Absent from Sechelt’s

wishlist was a new Visitors Information Centre (VIC).

Rogers said that although staff were interested in having a new centre built, it is unlikely the project could be completed by the program’s March 2022 deadline for use of the funds. The main stumbling block for the project is the lack of a suitable property.

The District-owned Lot 1 in Wilson Creek has been suggested as a potential new home for Sechelt’s VIC. The lot, adjacent to the Chapman Creek bridge, was purchased by the municipality in 2013.

It has remained vacant and is currently used to display event banners. In 2014, a business case for the construction of a VIC on the site estimated development costs for the project at $1.4 million.

Connie Jordison

SUBALPINE SETTING IMPORTANT WITH AMAZING VIEWS. INFORMATION ABOUT SEASON WORLD CLASS CROSS COUNTRY SKIING PASSES AND SNOWSHOEING.

Early bird season passes can be picked up from December 16 to 18 from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the SCRD Field Road Administration building.

If you are not able to pick up during the week, passes will be available for pickup Saturday, December 19 from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the Gibsons and Area Community Centre. Seasons passes must be picked up by the individual season pass holder(s) as a waiver signature is required for all pass holders including family pass members.

Seasons pass sales will end at noon on December 31.

Passes purchased between December 12 and 21 can be picked up on December 24 from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the SCRD Field Road Administration building and on December 31 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. from the Gibsons and Area Community Centre.

The SCRD is reporting the stats for Week 5 of its Green Bin program – 14.68 tonnes of food waste collected for composting. That’s equivalent to 2,986 pumpkins weighing 5kg each!

For more information about the program, visit: http://www. scrd.ca/curbside-food. SCRD PHOTO

FUN

SLEDDING AREA FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

SEASON STARTS DECEMBER 16 WEATHER PERMITTING

YOUR SAFETY IS IMPORTANT TO US Safety controls have been put in place to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

When visiting Dakota Ridge please practice physical distancing (staying 2 metres apart), and if you are feeling sick, please stay home. The warming hut has a limit of five people, we ask that you please limit your time in the hut during busy times and consider using your vehicle as an alternative to the warming hut if needed.

We’ll see you outside! www.scrd.ca/Dakota-Ridge 604-885-6802

6

The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020

Sunshine Coast COVID Physician Task Force Community Update #38 Dear Fellow Sunshine Coast Residents: While the latest local COVID-19 data showed we had only three new COVID-19 cases on the lower Sunshine Coast during the month of October, it does not reflect the reality of the last couple of weeks. Over that time, we have seen an 80 percent increase in cases across Vancouver Coastal Health. We are working with Public Health and Vancouver Coastal Health to advocate for more frequent updates on local data, but until that happens, it is safe to assume that we are seeing similar increases in local cases.

This makes it all the more important that we continue to work together to put the brakes on COVID-19 in our community by following the new Public Health

orders which came out this week and which have been extended to Dec. 7. Please review the new orders and do everything you can to limit the risk of transmitting COVID-19 infection; limit your interactions outside of your household as much as possible, avoid gathering indoors and outdoors, and avoid all non-essential travel.

Please note that masks are now mandatory in all public indoor places as well.

Although we are technically part of Vancouver Coastal Health, we are very much separate from the rest of the Lower Mainland both geographically and in terms of our rates of COVID-19 infection. As per our previous recommendations, please do not travel off-Coast for anything other than essential work or medical appointments. This

now includes travel for outdoor sports, which should be kept within our local community for the next two weeks.

We have been doing a great job so far, so let’s continue to use our situation to our best advantage by avoiding the ferry if we can!

We are happy to announce that the saline gargle test is now available for all adults and children over four years of age. In order to be able to use the test, you must not eat, drink, smoke, vape, brush your teeth or chew gum for at least an hour prior to the test, as these activities will reduce the accuracy of the test. We would recommend reviewing the instructional video prior to your testing appointment. If you don’t qualify for the saline gargle test, or your saline gargle test shows evidence of food parti-

cles, a nasopharyngeal swab will be required.

Please continue the basic preventative measures that will help keep infection rates low and limit the impact on our hospital and healthcare providers. Please keep at least two metres between yourself and anyone outside of your immediate household whenever possible. Wear a mask when it is impossible to maintain social distancing.

Wash your hands frequently, and especially after touching any high contact surface. Always wash your hands before and after eating, drinking, or touching your face or mask.

If you do develop cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms, please contact the Respiratory Assessment Clinic by phone or text at 604-7401252 or by email at coast respclinic@gmail.com. The

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

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

If you have more severe symptoms and believe you may need to be admitted to hospital, please go to the Sechelt Hospital Emergency Department. If you need an ambulance, please call 911. Please remember that

the Emergency Department remains open and safe for anyone with a medical emergency.

Please note that flu shots are still available and are recommended for everyone over six months old. Flu shots are available through local pharmacies and clinics, and our local health units also have flu vaccines for families with children under 18.

Keep well, wash your hands, keep your distance or wear a mask, stay local if you can, and please keep doing everything you can to keep our community safe!

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

said Siegers.

A Provincial briefing update on the COVID-19 pan-

demic is slated for Nov. 27, at 3pm.

Connie Jordison

our support for the health care system’s response to the pandemic; where Canadians have access to more important COVID-19 information to help them make informed decisions about their health.”

Currently, LifeLabs’ COVID-19 antibody test is available for individual consumer purchase in Sechelt and Gibsons at $75. Customers have the option to pre-pay online at lifelabs.com, or they can purchase at a LifeLabs

collection site with a signed requisition from a health care provider. Customers can visit any LifeLabs location in BC with a signed requisition to get a blood sample collected for the antibody test. Appointments are recommended, although walk-ins are welcome.

If you’re interested in getting the COVID-19 antibody test, please talk to your health care provider. Visit lifelabs. com for more information.

The Local

Province-wide health orders in place until Dec. 7 Wearing facemasks in public places is mandatory under a province-wide health order that is set to remain in place until noon on Dec. 7.

The order, issued by Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry to help stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus, also bans public gatherings. Exceptions are allowed for weddings, funerals and baptisms involving ten persons or less.

The order asks that the public limit social interactions. Visitors are not to be allowed into private homes.

Exceptions are in place for those who live alone, who are to limit their in-home contacts to one or two individuals who are in their restricted

“social bubble.” People are also being asked to limit travel outside of their home communities to essential purposes only.

In a briefing aired on broadcast and social media on Nov. 23, Dr. Henry stated that she was “hopeful” that with the efforts being made under this and previous orders, progress in the fight against the pandemic is being made. “We have the knowledge to control the virus and not let it control us,” said Henry. She asked that people focus on the order’s intent, which is to stop the spread of the virus. She said she views this as more important than looking for “workarounds” that benefit them.

BC’s Health Minister Adrian Dix, who also spoke at the briefing, asked people to look at the order’s contents “not as punishments, but as tools” that individuals can use to stay safe and protect others.

On Nov. 20, Sechelt Mayor Darnelda Siegers issued a COVID-19 video community update on Facebook and Sechelt.ca. In her update, she asked for “understanding and compliance with the orders in place.” She reported that local contact tracing goals are being met but that there remains the need to slow down the rate of transmission of the virus by restricting personal interactions.

“Keep your bubble really small and only go out shop-

ping for essentials. Stay home when sick, wash your hands and travel only as essential,”

FLICKR.COM PHOTO

LifeLabs launches COVID-19 antibody test LifeLabs launched its COVID-19 antibody test this week, a test approved by Health Canada to help customers and their health care providers assess and determine prior COVID-19 infection.

Antibody testing, also known as serology testing, is not used to diagnose acute COVID-19 infection. However, it can help individuals and their health care providers understand if they’ve had

prior infection or exposure to COVID-19 – even if they were asymptomatic. Serology tests and results should not be used to rule out active infection.

Antibody responses to the virus take some time to develop and vary between individuals. For the most accurate results (results with the highest sensitivity), it is recommended that the antibody test is ordered 3-4 weeks post-onset of symptoms or post-ex-

posure. However, based on current studies, antibodies to the COVID-19 virus can be detected for a number of months post-exposure. At this time, it is not known if the presence of antibodies to COVID-19 means an individual is immune to the virus and protected from re-infection.

Antibody response can significantly vary for individuals, may wane over time, and may not be detectable in immunocompromised individuals.

When reviewing results, it is important to note that a negative result does not rule out previous infection.

“As we continue to increase our capacity for molecular COVID-19 testing in our labs to detect the virus, we’re pleased to also offer antibody testing as another piece of the puzzle to better understand COVID-19,” said Charles Brown, president & CEO of LifeLabs. “With this, we look forward to continue building

CRA opens applications for the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy Struggling businesses, non-profits, and charities that continue to face the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic can now apply for the new commercial rent relief program being offered by the federal government.

The Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS), which kicked off this Monday, replaces an earlier rent support program that relied on the cooperation of landlords to

apply for assistance.

“I’m proud that the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is once again stepping up to deliver another important program to businesses, charities, and non-profits that will help them get through the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue. “The CERS is the seventh program delivered by the CRA since the start of the pandem-

ic, and they have incorporated all the lessons and feedback from previous programs to provide businesses, charities and non-profits with tailored support that is easily accessible and meets their needs.

Canadian small businesses owners and employees can always count on the CRA to put people first, especially during their time of need.”

The new rent subsidy supports those that have suffered

a revenue drop by providing support up to a maximum of 65 percent of eligible expenses. Qualifying organizations that were required to shut down or significantly limit their activities under a public health order will have access to Lockdown Support, a top-up subsidy of 25 percent, meaning that they could receive rent or property expenses support of up to 90 percent.

The CRA has launched a CERS online calculator and application form that are designed almost identically to those of the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS). The calculator guides applicants through a step-by-step process that allows them to determine the subsidy amount they can claim, based on the information they enter. The CERS web pages include detailed information about el-

igibility requirements, how payment periods are structured, and how the subsidy is calculated.

Qualified organizations can now apply directly for the CERS for the period from Sept.

27 to Oct, 24, through the CRA “My Business Account,” or “Represent a Client” portals.

Applications for the second CERS period (Oct. 25 to Nov. 21) will open on Nov. 30.

The Local

The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020 7

Don’t buy into online shopping fraud For those who are unable to shop locally this holiday season, online shopping is an option, but be cautious of fraudsters who are using the digital world and festive buying to steal your money or identity.

Fraudsters do this in various ways, like fake retail websites, counterfeit goods, vendors who vanish after you’ve paid, phony free trial offers, hyperlinks that can launch malware and more.

Here are tips to avoid scams with your online shopping:

The Sechelt Fire Department attended a building fire in the 5500 block of Sinku Drive on Monday. It was determined that the structure was being used as a Marijuana grow operation, so firefighting tactics were defensive at first until power could be shut off. Once off, fire crews entered the structure and fully extinguished and overhauled the fire. The building sustained considerable damage but is salvageable. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is still under investigation. MICHELLE MACNEILL PHOTO

Mystery shopper scam On Nov. 18, a Gibsons resident reported falling for an elaborate variation on the popular “mystery shopper” fraud.

The scam started after the resident received a phone call from someone purporting to be a representative from the Amazon online shopping website. The “rep” attempted to defraud the resident, but as expected, the resident recognized this and did not fall for the scam. However, shortly after, the resident received a phone call from a male who said he was an RCMP member with the Cyber Crime Unit. The “officer” explained that they were trying to bust the “rep” and saw from their records that the resident had received a call from the “rep” and as she didn’t fall for the scam, wondered if she would be willing to assist them in catching one of the RCMP’s most wanted cybercriminals.

The resident agreed to use her own money in the “sting” after the “officer” told her she would be reimbursed

and double her money. The resident gave the “officer” remote access to her computer so that the “officer” could see her financial information (and later manipulate to show false screenshots showing the promised payments in her account). In a two-week span, the resident wired several large installments of money as per the “officer’s” instructions. It was only after the “officer” cut off all communications that the resident grew suspicious, checked with her bank directly, and realized she was out a five-figure amount and that no monies had ever been deposited in her bank.

Unfortunately, it is unlikely the resident will recover her monies.

To learn more about these types of scams and how to recognize the red flags, please visit sites such as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or the Better Business Bureau at www. bbb.org.

Submitted by RCMP

Stolen courier van found The Sunshine Coast RCMP is crediting a couple of keeneyed witnesses for identifying the suspect in an early morning theft of a courier van loaded with packages.

On Monday, Nov. 23, at approximately 8:30am, RCMP responded to a 911 report of a theft of a motor vehicle from the 5800 block of Marine Way in Sechelt. While frontline officers made patrols in the area, police received another report of a vehicle matching the description of the stolen vehicle that had gone into the ditch in the 11400 block of Sunshine Coast Highway, Madeira Park.

Officers attended the col-

lision and located the vehicle as well as a female who matched the suspect description provided by the vehicle owner.

The 20-year old female suspect, who is well-known to police, was arrested without incident, transported to Sechelt Hospital for minor injuries, and is expected to appear in court.

“With prompt assistance from the public, police were able to locate and arrest the woman. The public is instrumental in helping our officers in their duties,” states Constable Jihan McDougall.

Submitted by RCMP

Verify the seller Purchase only from trusted company websites or sellers, and watch out for those with grammatical errors, odd URLs or a lack of customer reviews. Look closely at the site’s privacy policy as well as terms and conditions and remember to check customer

feedback.

Build in security Make sure the websites you visit are secure. If a site shows a broken key or an open padlock symbol in your browser, it means the transaction isn’t secure and could be intercepted by a third party. When the key symbol is complete or the padlock is locked, or the web address begins with “https://,” it’s a secure transaction.

Keep personal identity data to yourself Protect your personal information. Never share your social insurance number, date of birth, driver’s license number or any other information to a seller. If they’re asking for information like this, be cautious – it could be a scam.

After the sale Monitor your bank and credit card statements fre-

quently to review your purchases and payments as they happen. Watch for discrepancies, like repeated or unknown charges.

Remember that you have a role to play in ensuring your online security. Be careful and protect your money, your identity and your peace of mind. If you have information about online purchase scams, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Find more information at canada.ca/money.

News Canada

NEWS CANADA PHOTO

8

The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020

Local SHOP LOCAL FOR CHRISTMAS

the

SECHELT FARMERS' & ARTISANS' Shop local for Christmas

M

R K E T

NOVEMBER 28TH & DECEMBER 5TH 11 AM TO 4 PM COWRIE STREET MASKS REQUIRED w w w. t h e l o c a l w e e k l y. c a

The 2020 holiday shopping season is different than in previous years. While the provincial health order is asking residents to limit public activities to help stop the spread of COVID-19, most area merchants remain open and need local support more than ever. Many downtown Sechelt businesses will be open until 8pm on Thursdays, between Nov. 26 and Dec. 10, to provide extended shopping opportunities. All planning to participate are reminded to obey COVID-19 protocols and wear a mask in public places.

Downtown Sechelt stores are ready to help fill holiday shopping lists. They are reminding people to shop early to help ensure they can find what they are looking for. “We will always do our best to accommodate customers looking for something. If they can’t find it in-store, we can do special orders but are experiencing longer than expected shipping times,” said Trail Bay Source for Sports’ Josh Romer.

“Shopping where we live is more important than ever this holiday season. Over the next few weeks the Sunshine Coast Business Recovery Team is reinforcing this message in various ways, and supporting a number of initiatives that encourage continued support of our local businesses, in a safe and responsible manner,” said Janice Iverson, executive di-

rector of Community Futures Sunshine Coast (CFSC).

Both Gibsons and Sechelt proclaimed Nov. 30 to Dec. 6 as BC Buy Local Week. In support of this event, Sunshine Coast Regional Economic Development Organization’s Executive Director, Colin Stansfield, stated, “We’re asking people to be mindful of the choices they make this holiday season – to recognize that small changes in spending can have a significant impact in the vibrancy of our local economy and ultimately the health of our Coastal communities. Whether you’re shopping safely and responsibly in local stores, buying local online, or purchasing gift cards through the Sunshine Coast page on SupportLocalBC. com, these are simple choices that make a meaningful difference.”

For those that want to shop online, another useful local shopping website is https:// www.localline.ca/sechelt -farmers-market. Created by the Sechelt Farmers Market, this online portal features over 450 hyper-local food, craft and art products. Offerings from 18 Coast-based vendors range from fresh produce and baking to spice mixes, jewellery, soaps and weavings. The site offers options for COVID-safe pick-up or delivery.

Many local businesses offer

sales on their own websites.

Barter Design (barterdesign. ca) creates and sells décor pieces fashioned locally using wood from BC and clays from Alberta and Washington State.

The company was founded

by Kenneth Torrance and his partner Katie Sweeting based on a vision of a marketplace of local people coming together sharing their values.

“For Christmas orders, we have limited quantities, so if the customer needs the object to be unwrapped under the tree, they can call us to confirm if it is in stock,” said Kenneth Torrance of Barter. If an item a customer wants to order cannot be supplied in time for Christmas Day, Barter is willing to provide one of its small handcrafted sharing bowls as a ‘stand-in’ and will include a note about the item that will be delivered later.

“Because we are donating 30 percent of sales revenues to the food bank, we are hoping we sell lots. It’s a double edge sword kind of sales. Buyers support local craft and support local food banks,” said Torrance.

The online shopping tool Shopify also has a regional presence, one example being https://serendipityfair. myshopify.com/, which features goods from the Sunshine Coast.

Connie Jordison

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Local SHOP LOCAL FOR CHRISTMAS

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Stocking Stuffers for Seniors London Drugs is proud to announce the return of its popular Stocking Stuffers for Seniors holiday donation drive.

The simple gesture of giving a gift could mean the world to thousands of seniors who are seeing increased isolation this holiday season due to COVID-19 protective protocols.

Christa Dunn, assistant manager of Gibsons London Drugs, noted that as of Nov. 16, her store had received requests for over 175 gift bags this year. That exceeds the number of requests received in 2019. “London Drugs is a community-oriented company, and we enjoy giving back locally. Part of our brand is making life less complicated for our customers. This program makes it easy for those who shop at our store to help local seniors who may not have people in their lives that can provide them with a Christmas gift,� said Dunn.

Supporters can visit London Drugs between now and Dec. 16 to choose a tag from the tree that contains the wish list, or everyday essentials, of a local senior.

The local program makes

gift bags available to seniors through organizations located throughout the Coast.

Shortly after the Dec. 16 contribution deadline, store staff will contact the participating groups to distribute the bags in a COVID-19 safe manner.

The Stocking Stuffers for Seniors donation drive concept originated in British Columbia’s Okanagan and expanded to Edmonton in 2015

with a goal to help 40 low-income seniors by providing them with simple gifts such as food, hygiene products or warmth items. The campaign has grown quickly to now include all 81 London Drugs locations in 35 cities across Western Canada. Since the campaign started, approximately 44,000 packages have been delivered to seniors.

The Local

You’ll still see your First Responders out there doing The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020 their annual Crash The Coastboot drive, & the Eastlink Elves Club Telethon is still a GO! 2020 has been a difficult year for many and The everyone Elves Clubsafe, is here dedicated To keep we to arehelp.

NOTOur taking in-person, volunteers will be providing help to2020 our community December 5th, But paper applications this year.

Instead we’ll bethis year, but inGift a different distributing local Cards toway... a variety of 10:00am– 2:00pm organizations including: You’ll still see your First Responders • Raincity Housing out there doing their annual Crash The Coastboot drive, • Arrowhead Clubhouse & the Eastlink Elves Club Telethon is still a GO! December 12th, 2020 • Yew Transition House • Local food we banks and Eastlink Channel •taking 2:00pm To keep everyone safe, are610 NOTmore... in-person,

Crash the Coast Boot Drive The Elves Club Telethon

Butdeal paper applications year.

Instead we’lltobe Support ourthis local talents!

If you with low income families and want have distributing local Gift Cards to a variety of There will be pre-recorded actslist, andplease somecontact new ones your organization added to this us organizations including: so 1be@sure to tune in! before Dec. elvesclub@hotmail.com. • Raincity Housing Clubhouse To Watch donate please visit our website for• Arrowhead updates as we ramp up for this at • Yewseason Transition House Holiday fundraising! www.elvesclub.ca • Local food banks and more...

If you deal with low income families and want to have your organization added to this list, please contact us before Dec. 1 @ elvesclub@hotmail.com.

Watch for updates as we ramp up for this Holiday season fundraising!

Did you know?

THE LOCAL’s newsprint, regular or glossy paper, is biodegradable, recyclable and is printed with vegetable-based ink.

Please recycle this newspaper.

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We would like to extend a BIG thank you to everyone at Eastlink for all their hard work with Crash the Coast and Telethon including Steve Sleep and Brittany Broderson.

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10

The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020

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

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

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

Thursday, November 26 • SD46 Zoom webinar: “COVID-19: Coping with Anxiety in Children and Adults,” with special guest Dr. Kristin Buhr, 5-6pm, (Zoom Webinar ID: 690 7796 5992 / Passcode: 3169696) • Sechelt Shop Hop: Enjoy great deals at our local shops, live music, holiday light displays and hot beverages, downtown Sechelt, 5-8pm

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• Serendipity Christmas Craft Fair, featuring local artisans and crafters, (online to Dec. 13), https://serendipityfair.myshopify.com/ • BC SPCA online workshops for kids, 9:30am-12:30pm, for details and registration go to https://spca.bc.ca/ news/bc-spca-online-kid-workshops/ • Coast  Fibre: Weekends only to Dec. 13, FibreWorks Studio & Gallery, 12887 Sunshine Coast Highway, Madeira Park, 11am-4pm, 604-883-2380 • Winter Artisan Showcase, Friday and Saturday, Sunshine Coast Arts Centre, 5714 Medusa St, Sechelt, 12-4pm • Live Music: Joe Stanton–Dinner show, inside or on the patio at The Clubhouse Restaurant–Pender Harbour Golf Club, 5-8pm, 604-883-9542 to reserve a table

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DECEMBER OPENING PLANS for

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Starting Dec. 3

Saturday, November 28

• 2020 Quarantine Christmas Market: Nov 28/29, tiny Christmas Market, Sunnycrest Mall, Gibsons, 10am-6pm • November is National Novel Writing Month, one on one 20-minute critique sessions with local author Leigh Matthews, 11am-1pm, call Gibsons & District Public Library to register 604-886-2130 • Sechelt Farmers’ & Artisans’ Christmas Market, over 30 local vendors on Cowrie Street, 11am-4pm • Live Music Saturday and Sunday, 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

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Christmas decorations and great gift ideas Crafts & Sewing supplies Antiques, Jewellery & Collectibles Furniture, Art, Décor.

Books, Music, Stereo Equipment Kitchenware, Crystal, China Garden, Sports,Tools and always much, much more!

1877 Field Rd. Wilson Creek tricia@rightsizingsolutions.ca COVID PROTOCOL IN PLACE MASKS A MUST!

Sunday, November 29

• Botanical Drawing Workshop with Mehran ModarresSadeghi (online), 10am-1pm, details at www.sunshine coastartscouncil.com, tickets at www.eventbrite.ca • 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: Peter Van Trio, inside or on the patio at The Clubhouse Restaurant–Pender Harbour Golf Club, 2-5pm, 604-883-9542 to reserve a table

Monday, November 30

• Virtual Open Board Forum with VCH, COVID-19 updates, 6:30-8:30pm, send questions in advance to ce@vch.ca AND RSVP at: http://eepurl.com/hdvt4b • Sunshine Coast Community Solar Association: online AGM with guest speaker Bruce Morris discussing the 100kw solar array on Trail Bay Mall, 7pm, get Zoom code by emailing suncoastcsa@gmail.com

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

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Thormanby Island and many others – about how the lack of access to high-speed internet is significantly impacting their lives.

The COVID-19 pandemic has only further highlighted the importance of connectivity and accelerated the need to connect all Canadians. More and more, families need it for work, students need it for education, and we all need it for access to health and government services and to remain connected with our loved ones. Growing acceptance of remote work, for instance, can create significant opportunities for those to work from rural areas, provided access is available at home.

This can rapidly accelerate Canada’s economic recovery,

save significant amounts of commuting time, and reduce travel-related emissions.

I have made the case with caucus colleagues and ministers that persistent connectivity gaps are unacceptable, that it cannot continue, and that more has to be done.

For that reason, I am especially pleased to announce that earlier this month, our Government launched the next part of our Connectivity Strategy, the Universal Broadband Fund, which will help connect 98 percent of Canadian households to high-speed internet by 2026 and every Canadian to high-speed internet by 2030.

The newly launched UBF includes a variety of pro-

A mission statement communicates what we, as a district, are working to achieve.

Superintendent Bocking and I recently had an exciting conversation about the importance and evolution of our district’s mission; that conversation resulted in us co-authoring this month’s Education Matters!

Our mission inspires our staff to make big and small improvements at every opportunity; it also communicates to our students and families what they can expect from being a part of our learning community. The language used in a mission statement is important as it sets our direc-

tion, and this is why so much time, student, staff and public consultation, and thought are taken when creating, reviewing and renewing our district’s mission statements A mission is not static; it changes with time. It evolves based on our students’ needs and how we understand current public education culture.

What does the history of our mission tell us?

At School District 46, we have had a significant evolution in our mission over the last twenty years. From 1997 when we stated that, “We assist students to become educated citizens and life-long learners,” to 2020 when we said that, “We support and inspire each student to experience joy and fulfilment in realizing their potential as a knowledgeable, confident, and contributing citizens in the global community.” In

both mission statements, we encourage everyone – trustees, teachers, support and executive staff – to think beyond the classroom and beyond graduation for the greatest life-long success of our students.

Further significant additions to our mission are the ideas of joy and fulfillment for each student and being a contributing citizen vs an educated citizen. An environment that supports joy and fulfilment with the learning builds resilience and can be translated to countless experiences during and after each student’s time at school.

Being a contributing citizen pushes us beyond the idea of teaching a body of knowledge and toward a way of active participation in our community. The evolution of our mission statement is an exciting part of our district’s work!

The current restrictions resulting from COVID-19 have many puppy owners looking for recommendations on how to socialize their puppies adequately these days. Good socialization sets puppies up to become confident, friendly, sociable adult dogs.

Luckily, there are many things a puppy owner can do to meet socialization goals despite the current restrictions.

All interactions should be positive for the puppy, and novel items introduced at the puppy’s pace. Overwhelming a puppy is counterproductive and can leave a puppy feeling fearful and anxious. Owners who familiarize themselves with dog body language can more easily read how their dog is feeling and, by understanding what their pup is communicating and responding appropriately, owners build up the very important “safety history” with their puppy.

Here are some ideas to

socialize your pup and stay within our restrictions. If your puppy has not completed his vaccinations, check with your vet about what is safe for him to do.

Take your puppy for car rides and let him observe people and other dogs from the vehicle. Some businesses are offering curbside pick-up, so bring your pup along both for the ride, and so he can see new people. If you choose to enter stores and the business is dog-friendly, take your pup in. They do not need to have close interactions with people, but they can observe from the trolley/ cart at a distance while receiving some treats from you. In all these exercises, be sure you are happy and positive with the new people and situations and with your pup as they need to see you are comfortable with things.

Now is a great time to enlist the help of your friends and neighbours. Place your puppy in a pen where you can easily and closely supervise and keep them safe.

Your front yard might be a good place to put the pen and ask the helpers to walk by your puppy. The helpers can push strollers, bikes, skateboards, walkers and other similar pieces of equipment,

In today’s world, fast, reliable and affordable highspeed internet is a necessity for all Canadians, including those living in rural and remote communities. Since taking office, one of my central priorities has been to expand internet infrastructure and access to all parts of our riding, including on the Sunshine Coast, where persistent gaps remain to this day.

I’ve heard from many constituents on the Coast – from Egmont to Madeira Park to

Education Matters Amanda Amaral

Trustee, School District #46 School Board

Jane’s dog London when she was a pup. JANE BOWERS PHOTO so your puppy is exposed to novel items. Do this over several sessions at a distance to avoid overwhelming the puppy.

Ask family members to dress up at home and expose the puppy to people wearing wigs, hats and different clothing at home.

Set up different surfaces for the puppy to comfortably walk on. Provide positive reward training for your pup, so he enjoys training sessions and learning in general.

Provide a variety of noises for the puppy to get used to – the vacuum, power tools, mowers etc. All can be frightening, so take advantage of the puppy’s natural ability to accept new things at an early age and slowly introduce and gently introduce the pup to these noises.

For more tips, please visit www.dogsofdistinction.com.

grams that will help close these connectivity gaps. The Rapid Response Stream will support smaller streamlined projects of up to $5 million that can be implemented quickly, including “last mile connectivity” that plagues several of our communities.

The Mobile Projects Stream will target mobile network projects that primarily benefit Indigenous communities in remote areas. In response to requests made by many in our communi-

The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020 11

ty, we have also committed $600 million to secure lowearth-orbit satellite capacity through Telesat in order to provide high-speed internet to the most remote and hard to connect parts of our country.

These historic investments will help bridge the long-standing urban-rural digital divide here in our community and across the country, helping to close the connectivity gap on the Sunshine Coast to ensure all

residents have the technological resources they need in the twenty-first century. I am already working closely with potential partners to ensure that applications can be swiftly made under this program to meet the needs of the communities on the Coast.

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

Gemini (May 21-June 21) Relationship dynamics have entered a much more complex cycle. Some of this is due to your own transformational process underway.

It is revealing both your power and returns for past Tip of the Week: choices and actions. These The Sun in Sagittarius returns may not exactly brings attention to Jupiter, amount to rewards, howevwhich is the ruling planet er. In fact, you could be dealfor the Centaur of the Zo- ing with negative paybacks. diac. Jupiter has been in Positively, your powers of Capricorn since late 2019, critical analysis have sharpwhich is one of its most ened. challenging signs. In Cap- Cancer (June 22-July 22) ricorn, the sign of governConcerns and considerment authority, Jupiter ations centering on health, tends to be expressed with are on your mind. This may a stern, narrow, rigid and well touch upon the realrestrictive, attitude and is ities and implications of often met with cynicism and Covid19. Of course, you are fear. Reflecting upon 2020, not alone in this regard, yet this synchronicity is indeed you may be more worried accurate, sympathizers, and than others seem to be. As the sign of personal safety apologists aside.

Currently, Jupiter is clos- and nutrition and with posing in fast on conjunction sible convictions like ‘food with Saturn which is also in is the best medicine…’ you Capricorn and has been so are probably assuming a for about 3 years! Howev- very vigilant posture. er, as the fates will have it, Leo (July 23-Aug. 23) Sagittarius time generalthe conjunction will actually occur in Aquarius and ly represents a create cycle precisely on December 21, for you or at least one that Winter Solstice 2020. The is sporty, playful, and perlast time these two gas gi- haps adventurous too. Reants formed a conjunction garding creative projects, was May 28, 2000. This success will depend on your upcoming conjunction ends willingness to make much a 220-year cycle of 11 con- more concerted efforts. This junctions in Earth Element includes rolling-up your signs and begins a new 220- sleeves and doing the work year cycle in Air Elements required. Breaking through signs, beginning and ending fears of failure may also with Aquarius, the sign of pose a challenge. For best awakening, invention, and results, dive-in!

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sept. 22) revolution.

You are probably more inAries (Mar. 21-Apr. 19) terested in philosophy, prinYou have entered an exciples, and ethics than othpansive yet sober and deterers realize. Yet, this side of mined cycle. You are focused you is getting activated now. to increase your power, More than simply wanting one way or another. It is to enter into discussions, likely that you are strongyou yearn to engage in more ly considering alternative practical activities and to approaches to strengthen achieve more measurable your overall financial port- results. Translating your vifolio. This impulse is lead- sions into investments that ing you to explore alterna- will bring returns, especialtive approaches that you are ly of the monetary sort, will excited to pursue. prove extra appealing.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) When it comes to the Sagittarius time is one of deep end, there are many heightened intellectual aclevels. Recently, you began tivity for you. During this to explore the next level, time, you will feel inclined to which can also be described see the details of the bigger as wide. With your sights picture more clearly. Interset on the future, you are estingly, this time, you will getting ready for a whole be catapulted into a whole new consideration of pos- new level and quality of sibility. A blend of dreams creative thinking. Whether and higher ideals vie for this leads you to journalism, your attention, however, expressions of art, writing a and this is where managing novel, or simply engaging in your time effectively is extra good conversations, the imimportant. pulse will be big!

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Some cycles are more about business than others, like this one. And this is just the first chapter. This theme and focus will continue. The biggest challenge continues to be getting clear on your goals and objectives, without getting scattered. You will notice that the pace is faster than this time last year and stands to accelerate measurably, yet. Time management is a veritable necessity.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) While the Sun is in your sign and this is already and will synchronize with you taking new leads, the last New Moon was in Scorpio and this will have the effect of drawing you inward.

Balancing this urge for a retreat with the simultaneous desire to blaze a new trail is, therefore, the current complex. With awareness and allowing time for both, you will solve the puzzle.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Recent activations have and continue to stimulate your contact network. Some of these new connections may be purely professional while others may also prove to be the beginning of important new friendships and alliances. Yet, you are hardly in a frivolous mood.

Rather, you feel expansive and want to advance your front. The future cometh and you are determined to meet it head-on.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) A creative impulse continues to beat in your heart.

Engaging it will prove extra satisfying during which time both vanishes and passes quickly. In some respects, your focus will include the bigger picture trends of the world. Of course, not all of these are terribly inspiring currently. Yet, it is this very reality that is also activating you to make a difference via a creative process.

Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) The focus has turned to your public and professional life. This trend will continue and increase over the coming weeks. It is important for the sake of success that you have taken at least some initiatives and established even the smallest amount of momentum.

So, use this time to get organized and gain some clarity about your goals and objectives going forward with the long-term future in mind. michael@sunstarastrology.com

12

The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020

Stocked up but unprepared for storms

Wilson Creek Renaming The District of Sechelt is pleased to support the shíshálh Nation request, to the BC Geographical Names Office, to rename Wilson Creek neighbourhood and creek to ts'ukw'um.

The name change is one small but important part of building relationships, cultural awareness, respect and reconciliation. ts'ukw'um is the she shashishalhem name for Wilson Creek (community). ts'ukw'um is an important shíshálh village site that dates to the pre-contact period. The ts'ukw'um village was inhabited by shíshálh during the early 1900s and was located beside the ts'ukw'um creek before it was diverted to its current location. ts'ukw'um shares its name with nearby creeks (Wilson and Chapman creeks) and the land that adjoins them. ts'ukw'um is very close to the shíshálh word ts'ukwum which means fresh water, tasteless (has no flavour). ts'ukw'um is an extremely high cultural and spiritual value are to the shíshálh. ts'ukw'um continues to provide the shíshálh peoples with cultural material sites that allow for the practice of customs and traditions. ts'ukw'um is an important area for shíshálh ceremonial use by providing areas for prayer, training and rites of passage activities. www.sechelt.ca | info @ sechelt.ca | 604-885-1986

New data from BC Hydro shows a 117 percent increase in storms from 52 in 2014 to an average of 113 over the past three years. BC HYDRO PHOTO A new BC Hydro report finds many British Columbians feel more prepared for storm-related power outages after stocking up on household supplies for COVID-19, despite most not having an emergency kit or plan.

The report titled, “Stocked up but unprepared: How COVID-19 preparation has created a false sense of storm season security,” finds the severity and frequency of storms causing damage to BC Hydro’s electric system is increasing. New data from BC Hydro shows a 117 percent increase in these storms from 52 in 2014 to an average of 113 over the past three years. This has resulted in an average of one million customers being impacted by

Serving You on the Sunshine

storm-related power outages annually, including two of the largest individual storms in BC Hydro’s history in 2018 and 2020.

A new survey commissioned by BC Hydro found that nearly 20 percent of British Columbians think they are more prepared for winter storms this year because of COVID-19. This sense of preparedness comes from stocking up on household supplies like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, groceries and alcohol – which 44 percent indicate they have done.

Unlike years past, half of British Columbians would not leave home to wait out an extended outage in a public place like a mall, restaurant

or movie theatre because of the pandemic. However, even with a desire to stay closer to home and the increase in storm-related power outages, over half of British Columbians do not have an emergency preparedness kit – and most do not plan to purchase one this winter. About 30 percent also admitted they have not taken any steps to prepare for an outage.

The report also found whether they are prepared or not, British Columbians have three top concerns when the power goes out: two-thirds worry about food in the fridge or freezer spoiling, 16 percent worry about feeling cold, and nearly 10 percent worry about their cell phone dying. Submitted

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BC Ferries second quarter results BC Ferries released its second quarter results, which show a decline in passenger and vehicle numbers due to the global pandemic.

Year-to-date, since April 1, net losses were $24.2 million, compared to net earnings of $107.2 million in the same period in the prior year, a decline of $131.4 million.

“COVID-19 continues to have a significant impact on the ferry system as we navigate through what is now the new normal with our employees, our customers and all British Columbians,” said Mark Collins, BC Ferries’ President and CEO. “Throughout the pandemic, our employees continue to provide lifeline service to coastal communities, and I want to recognize their dedication and perseverance, which has been nothing short of inspiring.”

During the quarter, BC Ferries carried 5.5 million passengers and 2.5 million vehicles, a decrease of 29 percent and 14 percent, respectively, compared to the same quarter in the prior year.

“Prior to COVID-19, our 12-year capital plan totalled $3.9 billion and included new vessels, upgrades and modifications for existing vessels, significant improvements at our fleet maintenance unit, major investments at terminals and renewal of information technology systems,” said Collins. “Given the impact of the pandemic to our operations and financial position, we are reviewing all capital plans to identify opportunities to defer any expenditures that are not regulatory, security or safety related or operationally necessary. It’s imperative that we scrutinize everything we

do to preserve the long-term sustainability of the ferry system in the public interest.”

On Sept. 18, the Federal and Provincial Governments announced that BC Ferries would receive $308 million under the Safe Restart Funding Program. Since the beginning of the pandemic, BC Ferries has been working closely with the Province to collaborate on strategic options to sustain the ferry system for the long term. BC Ferries submitted a detailed plan to meet the public interest and the interests of customers in the provision of safe, reliable and affordable ferry service.

Earlier this month, BC Ferries reached a formal agreement with the Province regarding the $308 million from the Safe Restart Funding Program.

Submitted

The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020 13

Conservationists buy an island gem

The BC Parks Foundation secured an exclusive agreement to purchase West Ballenas Island for $1,700,000, down from $2,225,000, but they only had a couple of months to secure the funds. They met their target date of Nov. 17 through fundraising. Similarly, last year the Foundation raised $3 million in three months to protect Princess Louisa Inlet, just north of Jervis Inlet and Earl’s Cove. BC PARKS FOUNDATION PHOTO The BC Parks Foundation successfully raised $1.7 million to buy West Ballenas Island this month – the last private island in one of the Salish Sea’s most fragile and unique archipelagos.

Thousands of British Columbians, and people worldwide, through both large and small donations, raised the

necessary funds to purchase the underdeveloped 100acre island.

Listed as one of the top 10 most biodiverse sites in the Gulf Islands, the small island is home to abundant bird populations, rare plants, threatened species, and marine life.

West Ballenas Island was

the only private non-park parcel remaining in a proposal to establish the Ballenas-Winchelsea Archipelago as a 4,900-hectare marine park – a long-standing conservation initiative within the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Reserve.

The Local

Outdoor seating at the Langdale ferry terminal. MICHELLE MACNEILL PHOTO

Christmas Features

Women in Canada are done waiting. End wage discrimination. End sexual harassment and violence.

Fix the child care crisis.

GENDER EQUALITY

Women in Canada are done waiting. We want to be able to go about our lives feeling safe and secure....

Be a part of the Local’s Christmas Campaign and get BONUS adverising space!

Book your Christmas ads for 4 editions and receive a FREE same size ad!

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The statistics are shocking – gender-based violence is on the rise, including in the world of work. It’s something a lot of people are silent about, but we need to talk.

November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is the start of 16 Days of Activism on Gender-Based Violence.

The pandemic has amplified existing barriers to women’s economic justice, like wage discrimination, sexual harassment and violence, and the lack of affordable child care. Now, more than ever, we are urging Canada’s federal government to prioritize a feminist recovery plan that is inclusive and equitable.

It’s time for a National Action Plan on Violence Against Women that offers concrete measures and strategies, including strategies to end Gender-Based Violence at work.

• • • •

Fix the Child Care Crisis End Wage Discrimination End Sexual Harassment and Violence Make Work Fair

We need federal leadership to ensure a just and equitable economic recovery that secures fair and decent work for all and leaves no one behind, but move us all forward together.

Learn more: canadianlabour.ca Submitted by Sunshine Coast Labour Council

14

The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020

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Pacific Hepatitis C Network, in partnership with Vancouver Coastal Health and the Sunshine Coast Community Action Team (CAT), has a contract position for a Project Coordinator Community Overdose Crisis Response to coordinate initiatives and projects related to the opioid overdose crisis response on the Sunshine Coast including but not limited to community engagement and public consultation, working with volunteers & peers with lived experience, project management and evaluation methodologies.

If you have experience coordinating and managing projects, working with diverse stakeholders in a community development approach, are knowledgeable about the current overdose crisis, have experience working with peers and have outstanding communication, administrative and project management skills, please request the position description and send your application to Deb Schmitz at: deb@pacifichepc.org by December 4, 2020

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The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020 15

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CALL 778-918-7910 TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT! subjects simply by filling in crosswords correctly. · Strengthens memory: The more frequently participants engage with word puzzles, the better they can perform tasks that measure attention, reasoning and memory, according to a study from the University of Exeter Medical School and Kings College London. The study found people who play crosswords have brain function equivalent to those 10 years younger than their actual age. · Improve socialization: Crossword puzzles can help you connect socially with others who also play crossword puzzles. Solving a puzzle together as a group is a fine way to connect and meet new people. · Help relieve stress: Crossword puzzles can engage the brain and mind, helping

direct attention away from stressful situations. Crosswords also provide a way to relax and unwind. · May help prevent brain diseases: According to the Alzheimer’s Association, research indicates keeping the brain active seems to increase its vitality and may build reserves of brain cells and connections. In addition, those who keep their minds active may have lower amounts of a protein that forms beta amyloid plaques attributed to Alzheimer’s disease.

Crossword puzzles can fill empty hours with an entertaining and educational activity. However, there are many other benefits to doing crossword puzzles that may surprise even the most ardent puzzle enthusiasts.

Metro Creative

CROSSWORD ACROSS

1. Garment size 6. Written permit to enter or leave 10. Wound made by cutting 14. Kind of fairy 15. Architectural curve 16. Singing voice 17. Assumed name 18. Prevaricator 19. Move slightly 20. Defy 22. Fall in drops 24. Conclusion 25. Blood fluid 27. Magnify 29. Type of coiled fossil 33. Range of knowledge or understanding 34. Connect 35. Flair 37. Take up the cause 41. Entirely 42. Crane 44. In favor of 45. Antiquity 48. Oracle 49. Keep in check 50. Spoil 52. Feed on carrion or refuse 54. Primitive eel-like vertebrate 58. Heroic poem 59. Be indebted to 60. Therefore 62. Viscid 66. Jamboree 68. Dull pain 70. Make amends 71. Heavy metallic element 72. Flat-bottomed boat

73. Part of a jacket 74. Fractional monetary unit 75. Detest 76. Slumber DOWN

1. Wood or metal support 2. Equal to 1760 yards 3. Center of rotation 4. Communication channel 5. Diminish 6. Buddy 7. Acerbic 8. Frighten 9. Wither 10. Fuel

11. Change 12. Insect bite 13. Multitude 21. Attempted 23. Supplication 26. Book of maps 28. Conjunction 29. Slightly open 30. Small burrowing mammal 31. Manufacturing plant 32. Roof overhang 36. Female relative 38. Overt 39. Snob 40. Quality of sound

43. Snares 46. Rascal 47. Open wagon 49. Reading 51. Present or use over 53. Essential organs 54. System of reasoning 55. Mindful 56. Gourd 57. Evergreen plant 61. An attempt to score 63. Manage 64. Leg joint 65. High-pitched yap 67. Colony insect 69. Female sheep

Solution page 14 Courtesy of: puzzlechoice.com

METRO CREATIVE PHOTO

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Crossword puzzles are one of the most popular pastimes in the world.

Crosswords are square grids made up of white- and black-shaded squares. The goal is to fill in all of the letters to form words and phrases that work both vertically and horizontally. The grid varies based on the country of origin. Certain grids also have 180-degree rotational symmetry so that the pattern appears the same if the paper is turned upside down.

Historians are uncertain about who created the world’s first crossword puzzle, although it is believed to be something that originated in the 19th or early 20th century. Arthur Wynne, a journalist from Liverpool, England, published a wordcross puzzle in the New York World that had many of the features of the modern game, and the crossword is frequently attributed to Wynne.

Even though crossword puzzles have been entertaining and helping people pass the time for more than 100 years, the benefits of crosswords go beyond boredom-busting. Various studies have shown the positive effects crossword puzzles can have on a person’s brain and capacity to learn. · Improve vocabulary: Crossword puzzles introduce players to new words. And players may learn some interesting facts about various

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The Local - Thursday, November 26, 2020

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