Local The
Your Weekly Community Newspaper • Sunshine Coast BC • Thursday, January 5, 2012
Looking back at 2011
The First Baby of the New Year on the Sunshine Coast is Destin Nooski, born January 3 at 2:20 a.m. This is your ad– see our January 12th issue for all the details and a ........ Pages 2-11 photo of the new baby and his proud family! proof in the next issue of
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Chilly foradchildren This isfun your proof ages 3 to 93 Thein Davis Baynext dock was packed the issue of with cheering onlookers for the January 1st 2012 Annual Davis Bay Polar Bear Swim. The swim was done in three heats: children, teens and older swimmers. As the children entered the frigid water splashing and screaming, amid loud applause, a little terrier joined them in their icy swim; the same dog joined the teens as they took to the water (bravely immersing themselves into the chilly waves) and again as the adult swimmers raced into the surf. While a Search and Rescue boat stood by as a precaution, the only rescue that morning was when the terrier leaped into the water for a fourth time and attempted to drag the float to shore. One of the volunteers in a rowboat rescued the determined dog and returned it to its owner, cheered on by the crowd.
June 9, 2011 Issue Date: ____________________ Deadline for approval or changes is Monday by 3:00 p.m.
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June 2, 2011 Issue Date: Armours Beach in Gibsons Landing was one____________________ of the sites for the annual Polar Bear Swim on January 1, 2012 and local residents braved chilly winds and icy water to perform thefor annual ritual of taking a frigid dip. Jay Ritchlin, his son Devin and daughter, Deadline approval Eilis, along with wife Catherine Pedretti toldorThe Local they changes is thought it was a great way to greet the year. However, Doug Montague, also of Gibsons, said he had justMonday turned 60by and thisp.m. was his first time because it was one of the items on his ‘Bucket List’. 3:00 If we do not hear from you by this time, we can assume all is correct.
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2 The Local - Thursday, January 5, 2012
Looking back at 2011 JANUARY: Keeli Kirkland-Gower of Wilson Creek became the Sunshine Coast’s first baby of the year, born to Tiffany Kirkland and Darryl Gower. Over 100 people gathered to attend the annual Lighting the Memories event, hosted by the Sunshine Coast Hospice Society to celebrate the lives of those loved ones lost the previous year. At Davis Bay, the 21st annual Polar Bear swim was a big hit with a great turnout of souls willing to take the chilly plunge. The Rhumba Calzada group sizzled at Roberts Creek Hall to a sold-out crowd Jan. 22 in a ‘hot, hot,
move your feet’ winter dance. Halfmoon Haven celebrated the winter solstice with a meticulously crafted 50-foot painting of Thunderbird on cedar, representing the most powerful totem animal in native tradition. Jan. 26, the SCRD, in cooperation with the BC Earthquake Alliance, hosted the annual Great BC Shakeout – a province-wide earthquake drill. In a Jan 20 issue of The Local, an article on Target Marine’s caviar-processing facility began, “After 11 long years, the wait for the Sunshine Coast’s first caviar harvest is almost over.” Following an announce-
ment by government encouraging citizens to switch to more efficient light bulbs, it was noted that the announcement had the effect of driving up sales of less efficient bulbs. In mid-January, the government announced adjustments to the rules for governmentbacked insurance, with the plan to come into force in March. The under-13 girls soccer team played the Orange team at Kinnikinick Park with only a little drizzle, while back east, sub-zero temperatures and bitter wind chills kept many easterners indoors. At Sechelt council, Mayor Inkster and council offered
their support to name Sechelt ‘Hockeyville 2011’ by donning hockey jerseys. The Sunshine Coast Atom A Hockey team took on a West Vancouver team at the Gibsons Community Centre – “…a good group of boys and good hockey,” according to their coach. The Arrowhead Centre in Sechelt was officially opened Jan. 29, providing eight affordable rental units to those at risk of homelessness. The St. Mary’s Ladies Auxiliary donated $2,000 towards furnishings for the new complex. FEBRUARY: Local media was invited
to tour the construction site of the proposed Jack Nelson Annex, a new 65-apartment housing development for seniors and those with disabilities. The Sunshine Coast Botanical Society celebrated Valentine’s Day with a Wine and Roses special fundraising event held at the Garden Pavilion in Sechelt. Wastewater management in the District of Sechelt was the purpose of an Open House that brought out a lot of questions; constant interruptions by residents stretched the meeting far beyond its two-hour planned limit. The Gibsons and District Volunteer Fire
Department participated February 27 in the BC Lung Association’s 10th Annual ‘Stairclimb for Clean Air’. To train, the volunteer firefighters climbed School Road in full firefighting gear, raising $1,000. Sechelt’s McDonalds Restaurant closed for a month for renovations, re-opening with a new updated look for their McCafe. The Pender Harbour Music Society presented Company B Jazz Band to an appreciative crowd on Feb. 20 at the Pender Music School. Sign up for the Sunshine Coast Central Baseball League took place Feb. 12, (continued on page 3)
SCRD welcomes new Board
Royal Canadian
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GIBSONS
BR.#109 • 604-886-2411 Jan. 5, 2012
FrIDay, JaNUary 6
STEAK & PRAWNS DINNER
5 – 7:30 pm
then stay & dance to
JIM TAYLOR
7 – 11 pm
satUrDay, JaNUary 7
MURPHYÕ S LAGH
in the Lounge 8 pm to Midnight - No Cover! satUrDay, JaNUary 21
ROBBIE BURNS DINNER has been CANCELLED DUE TO ILLNESS satUrDay, JaNUary 28
Please join the fun at HARMONY HALL Doors open @ 5 pm – Dinner @ 5:30 Please call Phyllis at 604-886-1378 for tickets & information • Meat Draws every saturday & sunday 4-6pm • CrIB every saturday at Noon • FUN Darts every wednesday at 7pm • 9-BaLL every thursday at 7pm
Members and guests always welcome
New energy and a fresh outlook mark the newly elected Board of the Sunshine Coast Regional District. Municipal Representatives are: Alice Lutes, District of Sechelt; Gerry Tretick, Town of Gibsons; Jordan Louie, Sechelt Indian Government. Area Representatives are: Frank Mauro, Area A – Egmont/Pender Harbour; Garry Nohr (Chair), Area B – Halfmoon Bay; Donna Shugar, Area D – Roberts Creek; Lorne Lewis, Area E – Elphinstone; and Lee Turnbull, Area F – West Howe Sound.
Love & Hope for the Philippines
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concert is being organized to raise funds to help rebuild the lives of the typhoon victims in the Philippines. The typhoon, which slammed the southern part of the Philippines Jan. 5, 2011 just days before Christmas, caused landslides and flash floods that swept away entire villages while people slept. More than 1,000 people (many of whom were children) died, and around 500 are still unaccounted for. More than 45,000 peo-
ple were left homeless and are now living in temporary shelters. The benefit concert will be held at St. Hilda’s Anglican Church in Sechelt on Saturday, January 14, at 4 pm. Admission is by donation; all proceeds will be directed to the Philippine Red Cross. Organizers are finalizing the roster of performers, who will include many of our talented soloists, choral groups and instrumentalists here on the Coast.
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The Local - Thursday, January 5, 2012 3
Looking back at 2011 (continued from page 2) with umpire instructor and registrar Dave Fraser busy at McDonalds registering players. The Pender Harbour Rotary Club presented the Pender Harbour and District Marine Rescue Society with a cheque towards an automatic external defibrillator for CG Unit #61. Mid-February, flagging crews were controlling traffic in the Selma Park Road and Nestman Road areas in preparation for a major safety improvement project by the MOTI; roadways were widened and shoulders paved. Some Roberts Creek residents were unhappy that waterfront access was disrupted when a group of beachfront property owners hired trucks to haul large rocks to build up their shoreline property against erosion. Players of the Elphinstone Grade 8 girl’s basketball team put on a Shoot-A-Thon event to raise money to help for transportation costs, tournament entry fees and refereeing costs; they raised $830.72 in total. The Sunnycrest Mall was abuzz with excitement Feb. 19, when professionals manned tables at the annual Antiques Roadshow Fundraiser and Heritage Fair; the experts evaluated antiques and valuables, entertaining and informing both the people who brought the antiques and the curious onlookers. The Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives participated in the event with a fundraiser, presenting local historical displays. H&R
For days like today™
Block owners celebrated their 15th anniversary Feb. 18 by hosting a grand re-opening following their store’s renovations; they offered free tax advice, refreshments and prizes. The Sunshine Coast Special Olympics Curling Group received a round of applause from ferry passengers when it was announced that they had taken second place at the Special Olympics Curling Bonspiel in Abbotsford. As part of their community small projects, the Rotary Club of Sechelt constructed a small bridge in Kinnikinick Park to replace one that had rotted out. MARCH: The Sunshine Coast Rapids Lacrosse season began in March, signing up participants at McDonalds in Sechelt. The Sunshine Coast RCMP and the Sechelt Fire Department raised close to $1,000 for Muscular Dystrophy at the annual Battle of the Badges hockey game held in Gibsons. The game ended in a 4/4 tie. March 20, for the 11th year, the Sea to Sky branch of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC held their Popsicle Stick Bridge Building competition at the Seaside Centre, filling the Centre with people and Popsicle sticks. There were 26 elementary school students competing this year along with many others with Liam Watson taking first place in the elementary school divi-
sion. At the Seaside Centre as well, the Dragon’s Den auditions took place with several hopeful entrepreneurs and inventors coming to pitch their ideas. St. John’s First United Church quilters donated 20 quilts for sale as a fundraiser to help the needy in Vancouver. The second annual Sishalh Nation Weavers held informative classes, gathering over two days; the most popular was the traditional medicine class offered by a 75-year-old woman from the Shuswap. A public reception for the Shout Out 2 exhibition, in which artwork by young Coast artists from ages 4 – 18, was displayed at the Gibson’s Public Art Gallery, opened – the exhibition ran until March 28. Mid- March, Coasters packed into the Gibsons Arena to support the annual Marylou Lymer Memorial Hockey Tournament; the tournament is an annual fundraiser, some of the funds went to cancer research and a portion was donated to a young competitor in the St. Louis robotics competition. Also in midMarch, a unique Pet Expo drew pet lovers from all over the Coast to the Seaside Centre in Sechelt to see exhibits by animal-focused businesses, clubs and organizations. The Kidney Foundation of Canada was active this month, hosting a booth at Sunnycrest Mall to help raise awareness and funds. The Holy Family Catholic Women’s League took up the challenge to fill
Father Matthew’s kayak with food for an annual food bank drive. They not only filled his kayak but also brought in an additional 16 boxes of groceries for the food bank. March went out like a lion, with the Sunshine Coast Hospice Society’s grand opening of their new home in Davis Bay at the Kirkland Centre. Sechelt residents joined other Coasters when they turned off the lights for Earth Hour March 26 to help people recognize the need to conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. McDonald’s reopened after completing their extensive renovations amid smiles and fun – including a magic show and a visit from Ronald McDonald himself.
APRIL: April 1 was no fool’s day as three new councilors took office for their first term serving the Sechelt Band. St. Mary’s hospital reached the milestone one million dollar mark in fundraising for renovations for the hospital. A group of Army Cadet Corps 2963 Seaforth Highlanders picked up tools to volunteer their help at a Habitat for Humanity site. The 34th annual April Fool’s Run brought out scores of participants, who walked, ran or relayed from Gibsons to Davis Bay, including a group from Ft. McMurray, Alberta. April 14, Coasters demonstrated an outpouring of love and friendship when they organized a massive fundraising
effort to help victims of Japan’s devastating earthquake March 11, including dinners, auctions, raffles and craft sales. A small group of young people met at Camp Byng to commemorate the importance of the battle of Vimy Ridge in France, where many Canadian soldiers lost their lives in the First World War. For the second year in a row, the Cedar Grove grades 6 and 7 boys’ basketball team remained undefeated in their league. On Earth Day, hula dancers graced Roberts Creek’s Mandala in celebration, along with scores of residents and visitors who came to rejoice in spring. Garden Bay sculptor Jack Gibson unveiled his latest (continued on page 5)
SunnycreSt Mall, GibSonS, 604-886-1400 www.woodsshowcase.com
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Jan. 5, 2012 Issue Date: _______________ Phone 604-885-3194
STORE HOURS: Mon - Wed & Sat 8am - 6pm • Thurs & Fri 8am - 9pm • Sun 10am - 5pm SERVICE HOURS: Mon - Wed & Sat 8am - 6pm • Thurs & Fri 8am - 9pm • Sun closed
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4 The Local - Thursday, January 5, 2012
Editorial The ghost of 2011 “As I was walking up the stair, I met a man who wasn’t there. He wasn’t there again today. I wish, I wish he’d stay away …” ~Hughes Mearns
T
he ghost of 2011 is now behind us but echoes of the past year will certainly come back to haunt us in 2012. Issues like Target Marine, Smart Meters, leg-hold traps, Gibsons Harbour Plan, Gospel Rock and others have never been fully resolved. Yet, along with those, we have a wealth of wonderful diversions that keep us hopping: the Sunshine Coast is anything but boring! As with all small communities, we have our share of conflicts and problems; overall, however, our community is one of steady growth and change for the better. We work together to create an amazing place to live and we should be proud of our accomplishments. While we worry about national and global changes and how they’ll affect us, we are, in fact, somewhat insulated from those effects here on the Sunshine Coast. We have a community spirit of generosity and caring that will take us far in our quest to make the Sunshine Coast the pacific paradise we all know and love. Life is so busy here! We plan, we organize and we create. Our community celebrates our past and our present and what we’ve accomplished here! We’re also lucky enough to be able to embrace wonderful traditions from many cultures, which add colour and flavour to our lives. Those days of erecting competitive barriers between the communities on the Sunshine Coast are behind us and we recognize the strength we gain by embracing the Sunshine Coast as one whole community. This is the time to say thank you – to all those who’ve worked so hard on our behalf throughout 2011, to volunteers who work anonymously or with little recognition. Without their dedication, the Cavalcades, Festivals and May Days just wouldn’t happen. There would be no regattas, no bike races, no duck plucks. Just think what a difference these people have made to the fabric that is the Sunshine Coast and you’ll share a sense of gratitude for their selfless and wonderful contributions in 2011. This is also the time to welcome newcomers to our midst and, sadly, time to say farewell to some of our long-time residents. But as we look ahead to 2012, we know one thing is certain: the Sunshine Coast will continue to be the very best place to live, surrounded by family, friends and those who unite us in this great community we call home.
Letters to the Editor
Reckless use of firearms a danger
On Thursday, December 29, while fishing with a friend on Crowston Lake near Halfmoon Bay, several bullets were fired into the lake around our boat. We saw and heard them hit the water only meters from where we were fishing. Though we saw no one, we could hear a vehicle, perhaps more than one, encircling the lake on the surrounding dirt roads. We heard a lot of shotgun, semi-automatic and handgun fire. The shooting seemed to be random and careless and we were frightened for our lives. If this incredibly fool-
ish, highly illegal behaviour doesn’t stop, someone is going to wind up being shot. We, as a community, need to be aware of this behaviour in our own back yards, aware of the dangers of reckless gunplay and that there are armed people among us so dangerous and stupid that they need to be brought to justice. I’m willing to bet they left empty shell casings where they were shooting and that their fingerprints are all over them. Let’s hope that the RCMP find them. But in the meantime, be warned of these dangers when out enjoying our recreational areas. G. Olsen, Roberts Creek
Letters to the Editor Re: ‘Celebrating education’ Silas White’s column While the provincial government has posted a Request for Proposals in support of “safer schools”, it continues to ignore the possibility that some of its programs and recommendations promote aggression and bullying in schools. I refer to their latest efforts to increase the use of classroom wireless devices and their vaccination programs which now include 46-47 doses of fourteen vaccines for the first four-six years of life, followed by several booster shots right through to high school. In your column of Dec 22, you say board meetings have featured presentations on “Technology as Part of Effective Communication” and “Technology in Special Education”. Although such technology undoubtedly has valuable aspects, it also carries risks due to its electromagnetic radiation (EMR). The latter has increased and continues to increase exponentially since marketing of cell phones began. Paralleling this has been an increase in electrical sensitivity, symptoms of which can include behavioural problems, attention and concentration deficits, and memory loss. Similarly, paralleling the huge increase in taxpayer funded vaccines in the last two decades, there’s been
a huge increase in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), symptoms of which are behavioural problems and language and learning problems. In both cases, the symptoms arise due to neurological effects, which are much more likely in those whose brains are still developing. Brain development occurs fastest from birth to two-three years but continues into the early twenties. Some evidence suggests that EMR can cause ASD, and much evidence shows vaccines can do the same. With so much money, energy and time being devoted to “key goal areas” of School District #46, wouldn’t it be prudent to abide by the precautionary principle when considering adoption of unproven recommendations? Susan Fletcher, Sechelt
Thanks for helping us help The Members of Branch 140 Royal Canadian Legion in Sechelt wish to thank everyone who donated goods and services to the giant Christmas meat draw on Saturday, December 17, especially the local merchants and businesses. All the proceeds go into the charity fund, which is disbursed throughout the community. So far this year, Branch 140 has donated over $17,000 to various charities and good causes on the
Sunshine Coast. A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all from your Legion. Terry Powell, President This letter was received for publication by The Local
Please ban leg-hold traps! Dear Mayor Henderson and Council, I believe that our last Council has left you holding the bag re: the banning of leg-hold, Conibear and snare traps on the Sunshine Coast. I sincerely hope that you will deal with this matter to ensure that residents and visitors, their children and pets can explore the great outdoors in safety. An incident last spring caused outrage on the Sunshine Coast and a subsequent petition to ban traps got over 3,000 signatures in a two-week period. In March 2010 Vicki Starfire’s dog was caught in a leg-hold trap near Wakefield Creek on the edge of popular Big Firs Recreation Area - this, during a usual walk along the power lines near her home at the top of Mason Road. Conservation Officer Murray Smith’s advice at the time was to stay on the trails and keep our dogs leashed. I am also a senior citizen who enjoys hiking in the woods with friends and our dogs. We go to outlying areas so that our dogs can run free.
Consider others who are out in the bush and do not “stay on the trails”: those who build new trails, mushroom pickers, those who pick salal and other greens for florists, geologists, tree planters, surveyors, fishermen, nature photographers, bird watchers, boy scout troops, etc. Search and Rescue routinely does dog training exercises in the wilderness. The Sunshine Coast is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts who come here to enjoy hiking, mountain biking, wilderness camping. To have archaic traps set in undisclosed locations on the Sunshine Coast is unacceptable. Trapping for furs is not a viable occupation in this day and age; the average annual income is only around $500. There appears to be just a few trappers on the Sunshine Coast who trap for “sport”. Personally I fail to see the sport in causing animals to die slow, agonizing deaths. To use traps as a means of animal control is neither necessary nor practical. There are humane alternatives as Lesley Fox of the Assoc. for the Protection of Fur Bearing Animals has offered to demonstrate to local governments and wildlife officials. Please ensure that the Sunshine Coast is safe for all outdoor enthusiasts. Cecilia Ohm-Eriksen Sechelt
The Local - Thursday, January 5, 2012 5
Looking back at 2011 (continued from page 3) bronze sculpture, Yonel. On April 17, families with young children ages of 5 and under met at Chatelech Secondary to take part in the annual Early Years Fair, in which programs, such as StrongStart were explored for kids. The first sales of the new Watermark complex began in early April, stirring excitement in Sechelt. Coasters flocked to an Earth Day celebration at Gibsons Recycling Depot to learn more about zero waste; the event also featured the launch of Revolution, a permanent new educational outreach centre developed in partnership with Sea to Sky Outdoor School for Sustainability Education. Pauline Montgomery, eight-year publisher of The Local turned over the reins of the paper to Gardar and Carol Gardarsson; she looked forward to spending some serious family time and enjoying freedom from deadlines. Easter Sunday had little ones out searching for Easter eggs amid daffodils and spring blossoms, while boaters took advantage of the sunshine to enjoy some time on Coastal waters. The April Tool Wooden Boat Challenge took place in Pender Harbour, with great food and fun activities for the whole family, while several youth teams and 14 adult teams competed in the boat-building event, which was even more challenging because for the first time, plastic was not permitted as one of the building materials. For the eighth time in ten years, the Garden Bay Butterflies won top honours. About 40 walkers participated in the fifth annual Kids Help Phone Walk to raise funds for confidential support by phone and online for young people. MAY: Coast residents saw the Conservative Party win a majority government, with John Weston being reelected for his second term with 28,711 votes. Outdoor enthusiasts began to enjoy the new Maple Loop Trail opened in Kinnikinick Park by the District of Sechelt. Local doctors turned waiters for the special Heart Smart Mother’s Day gala brunch jointly sponsored by St. Mary’s Hospital Auxiliary and the St. Mary’s Foundation to raise funds for the new hospital. The Sunshine Coast Community Services hosted their first Garage Sale 4 Shelter event, in Sechelt, raising money for the homeless and for those in need. Members of the Gibsons Lions Club dished up pancakes for a delicious Pancake Breakfast in support of the Make a Wish Foundation, while Roberts Creek farmers took a Latin twist at the One Straw Society’s festive farm gate event. Not to be outdone, the Sechelt Garden Club held a plant sale extravaganza – leftover plants were used to beautify the landscape at the Arts Centre and the gardens at Totem Lodge. Since flowers were in high demand,
Master Gardener Mieke Kang greeted visitors and answered questions at the annual Caron Gardens Rhododendron Festival. Local publishers, RCMP and other dignitaries served up coffee and smiles at McHappy Day in both Sechelt and Gibsons; Sechelt McDonalds raised funds to make improvements to the Picadilly Park playground. A poodle fell from the sky, astonishing residents and staff at Shorncliff in Sechelt; a hungry eagle failed to keep a grip on the squirming dog, which required major vet care. George and Charlotte Gibson celebrated their 125th Anniversary at the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives with a live reenactment of their landing in Gibsons. Langdale elementary celebrated their annual Spring Fair, raising over $5,000, while the One Straw Society in Roberts Creek held their annual breakfast fundraiser, bringing in $500. Volunteer crews ‘made up the beds’ at the Iris Griffith Interpretive Centre in preparation for spring planting, while Alpha Adventures enticed paddlers out into the chill waters of Porpoise Bay for a Kayak and Paddle Board demonstration. Those hardy volunteers from Roberts Creek were out in their raingear for their rainor-shine sunflower seedling fundraiser, setting out their best-potted plants with many ornamental varieties to choose from. Gibsons Cinema went 3-D, much to the delight of the public who attended their first movie there in red-andblue glasses. Pender Harbour May Day rocked the coast, with scores of people making the short drive there to take in the annual parade, touted as one of the best on the coast, and all the fun events of the weekend, including the Longboarding hockey tournament. Later in the month, the Sunshine Coast Drag Racing Association presented their May Motor Madness weekend at the Sechelt airstrip. Race day was Sunday and spectators thoroughly enjoyed the noise, the exhaust and the thrills of the races. Langdale Ferry Terminal was named the first facility in Canada to treat saltwater sewage, introducing new technology to minimize the use of potable water. Woods Showcase in Sunnycrest Mall staged one of the most memorable grand openings in mall history when they used a chainsaw for the ‘ribbon-cutting’ ceremony. To celebrate the 100th Anniversary of BC Parks, the Sunshine Coast Arts Council presented Young in the Park with an evening of music. CKAY celebrated their fifth anniversary on the Coast. As the month of May drew to a close, the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives hosted an event to rock the south end of the Coast: the celebration of the 125th anniversary of the landing of George Gibson and his family in what is still today called Gibsons Landing.
There were thrills, there were chills, noise and excitement for the annual Motor Madness Drag Races May 28 – but compassion prevailed when one of the organizers discovered a Sand Piper nest in the midst of all the activity; a fence was erected to protect the nest as the grateful feathered parents later discovered when they returned after the noisy race. JUNE: The Heritage Playhouse in Gibsons was the site of an exciting bit of magic when Sensation of Magic opened June 3, and in Sechelt, the Chatelech Drama Club presented a wonderful rendition of Aladdin and his Magic Lamp for audiences of all ages. Gibsons new branch of the Bank of Montreal opened its doors with pomp and ceremony, with local dignitaries in attendance to cut ribbons and shake hands. Postal worker’s strike action hit the Coast hard, with boxes being sealed and the doors to the Post Office closed to customers for over two weeks. The Local was one of the businesses hit hardest, as newspapers could not be delivered through the mail. BC brought in the toughest animal cruelty laws in Canada, setting the standard for the rest of the country. BC businesses remained economically stable as businesses in the east began to crumble in an economic slump that would evolve into a widespread recession. The Gibsons Landing Jazz Festival drew hundreds of visitors to various venues throughout Gibsons; sunny skies and warm temperatures ensured attendance at all the outdoor venues although many of the venues were held indoors. Also in Gibsons, The Sunshine Coast Home Show featured exhibits from businesses all up and down the coast, much to the delight of hundreds of visitors. The Special Olympics Sunshine Coast Softball team, Red Sox, won their first game against the North Shore and against Coquitlam, coming first in their division in the tournament. The S.C. Wildlife Project team was busy building nesting beaches for turtles, while other Coasters held a Walk for Lupus. Meanwhile, in Sechelt, the Coast Academy of Dance put on a performance that wowed parents and visitors alike, as the students from various levels played to packed houses for their performances. Two Coast men pledged to play golf from sunup to sunset to raise awareness and funds for ALS. The second annual Naturally Autistic People Awards and Convention were held on the Sunshine Coast in Langdale, while at the other end of the Coast, Tilley’s Folly came to perform at Madeira Park. Local visually impaired advocate Bill Conway invited Gibsons Mayor Barry Janyk and Sechelt Mayor Darren Inkster to a visual challenge at the five-point intersection in
Gibsons Landing. The mayors lost the challenge and promised to look at improving intersections in both towns for visually impaired or physically handicapped persons. Sunshine Coast artisans organized their annual Art Stop Tour, inviting the public to drop into their studios and see the work being created. Kiel Strang of Roberts Creek was chosen for a TRIUMF Fellowship, enabling him to spend a summer working with a scientist. Back in Sechelt, the Downtown Business Association began the first of their summer Night Markets, opening up the streets to vendors. There was a great turnout for the 4th annual golf tournament fundraiser for the CanaDares Society For Children in Tanzania, thanks to the sponsors of the event and the organizers. The tournament took place at the Sunshine Coast Golf and Country Club on June 11th. The Sunshine Coast Community Services held their annual Children’s Festival and Duck Pluck beneath sunny skies to a huge crowd. Robert Higgins received the Music for Youth Endowment Grant Award for his drumming. The Gibsons Legion celebrated their 85th anniversary with all the trimmings. With the music of the pipe band and presentations to honoured guests, the ceremonies and festivities were the highlight of the weekend in Gibsons. JULY: Canada Day took centre stage on July 1, with activities taking place all up and down the Coast. The Parade was the highlight in Sechelt, while Gibsons events drew several visitors as well; Pender Harbour held their annual Malaspina Regatta – a fitting inclusion to the Canada Day activities. Kay Metcalf receives a Service above Self award from the Rotary Club and Chief Librarian Michelle Southam celebrated her 10th anniversary with the Gibsons and District Public Library. Celia Fisher and Gibsons Mayor Barry Janyk joined the campaign for the WaterCan movement, to bring clean drinking water to poor nations. Holy Crap announces they will always stockpile enough breakfast cereal to feed all Coast residents for one week in the event of an emergency on the Coast. Music in the Landing drew big crowds in lower Gibsons over the second weekend of the month. Despite extensive medical treatment and a lengthy recovery, the poodle that fell from the sky in early May was released to its new adopted family, healthy and happy. BC, which led economically in Canada earlier in the year, was hit by job losses; a July 7 report said BC was now leading in full-time job losses. The annual Pacific Jamboree at Camp Byng brought thousands of campers to the Coast, keeping both the ferries and organizers hopping. The (continued on page 6)
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6 The Local - Thursday, January 5, 2012
Looking back at 2011 (continued from page 5) Wooden Boat Festival, organized by the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives in Gibsons proved as popular as always, with many people turning out for the displays and the competition. The Halfmoon Bay Country Fair’s 45th family fun fair was a huge hit on the Coast, with attendance exceeding expectations. The twoday event was a hit with both locals and visitors. From fairs to competitions: the BC Bike Race, held here for two of the five days on the
Sunshine Coast, saw many BC finalists, which thrilled the local organizers. The race in this leg of the journey finished at the Langdale Ferry Terminal. The annual Art Stroll brought art lovers to Gibsons Landing, where Powell River’s Megan Dulcie displayed her powerful works in the Landing Art Gallery. Sea Cavalcade days, starting with the annual thrilling fly-past by the close-formation aircraft team Fraser Blues was attended by thou-
sands of spectators who lined AUGUST up for the parade in spite of A baby seal was rescued by the summer heat. The many caring Coasters who sumevents drew crowds every- moned Vancouver Aquarium where in Gibsons and on rescue staff who arranged air Friday night, culminated in transport and took the pup a fabulous fireworks display back to the aquarium, where to music. Sunday’s regatta, it settled in nicely. Hackett logger sports and swim, Park was the scene of a lot of among others, brought out hustle and bustle as Coasters the crowds by the hundreds. crowded into the park for The final movie in the Harry the 2011 Hackett Park Arts Potter series brought out en- & Craft Fair. Side-by-side thusiasts to wait in line at the vendors each with an array Raven’s Cry Theatre some of of creative products for sale them for up to 12 hours. drew one of the best crowds The summer Lagoonies yet. The same day, speakers, program at the Iris Grif- visitors and attendees were SC Dragon 952 crowded into venues for the fin Centre startedBoats up again, while the Chapman Creek Festival of the Written Arts, Hatchery drew crowds to the which featured such prolific for anyone interested in learning Catch a Trout Day. authors as Margaret Atwood about the 2012 Dragon Boat Season annual Sechelt Band lost a highly and Vicki Gabereau. prolific healer when Arthur A Vancouver Island clothOpen tO Men & WOMen Of all ages Paull passed away. Mean- ing designer sewed 50 cuswhile, speculations that there tom-made dresses to send No previous experience required would be a teacher’s strike to children in Africa, many Thursday January 19 • 7:00pm ran rampant on the Coast. of them sewn right her in at Seaside Center: 5790 Teredo Street, Sechelt The BC SPCA wildlife pho- Sechelt, as part of the Little Dec. called 29, 2011 Website: www.scdragonboatclub tography contest for Dresses for Africa organizaentries; the Pulling Together tion’s push to bring hope to Canoe Journey from the west these children. This is your coast of Vancouver Island ad saw proof Garlic here, garlic there, three canoes from the Sunand in the next issue of garlic everywhere – at the shine Coast participate. Wa- annual Pender Harbour Garwww.coastcps.ca termark apartment sales set a lic Festival! Much more than December 29 issue: record pace although Coast that, there were food vendors, PCOC Boating Course GPS Navigation real estate sales in general hit horseback rides, a bouncy Deadline for Display and Classified advertising is Wednesday, Dec. 21. starting on starting on starting on a slump. Four international castle, facepainting for the Wed. Jan 25 • 7pm Thur. Jan 26 • 7pm Wed. Jan 25 • 7pm artists 23. were Our office will be atopen through until 5 pm December Dec. at 1, the 2011 kids and so much more. The Issueshowcased Date: ____________________ at the Sechelt Elphinstone at Elphinstone Arts Centre in Sechelt: Diane annual event raises funds for Senior’s Centre, Secondary, forMeg approval Lilian Keiner, community organizations Our office will be closed DecemberSecondary, 26 and 27; Tanchak, Deadline Sechelt Gibsons Gibsons Torwl and Claudia Medina-is and locals in need. or changes office hours will resume as usual from DecemberCulos. 28 through thecrowds 30th. At Monday Davisto Bay, by 3:00 p.m.The stars came out, much Register via website: www.cps-ecp.ca flocked to the sandy beaches to the delight of the AstronRegistration confirmed upon receipt of payment we do not Sandcastle hear from you by this Club, who held Astronfor the If annual omy time, we can assume all is correct. The SCPS Training Officer is Patrick Kleine: pkleine@me.com Competition, with some omy in the Park at Porpoise Minimum Enrollment Required • Pre-Registration Urged, Limited Seating amazing sculptures, Bay. They brought telescopes Please let usincludknow how we serve youher best. for the public to use to view ing a dragon can guarding For more information visit: www.coastcps.ca Your business is important the to us!heavens and had crafts eggs, which won top prize.
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Where good friends meet and stay to eat Great food, great wine and soft music makes Leo’s Tapas and Grill the best place to enjoy a special lunch with friends – but, come evening when the tables are laid with crystal and linen, the atmosphere invites romantic dinners for two or dining for special occasions! Leo’s menu offers a wide range of palate-pleasing dishes from their tender roast lamb entrée to their house special Greek dishes. Nothing says Leo’s like a flaky spanakopita, delicately flavoured with perfectly-aged cheese, or an entrée of their house special: chicken, beef or lamb Souvlaki accompanied by roast potato, rice pilaf, Greek salad and, of course, cool Tzatziki dip and hot pita bread. What makes the evening so special is the personal service you’ll receive there, and something new has been added at Leo’s Tapas and Grill: because they care so much about their customers, if you drink, they’ll Jan. 5, 2012 drive you home! With a menu that includes steak, pasta, seafood, pizza and their ever-popular kid’s menu, Leo’s ranks at the top. Desserts? To die for! But here’s even better news: every week, Leo’s serves a different mouth-watering selection of dishes created for your Sunday dining! Leo’s is the perfect place to bring family and friends for a mouth-watering Sunday Brunch.
and a show at the Amphitheatre that evening. Gibsons businesses and galleries threw open their doors to welcome visitors and art lovers to a whirlwind Art Stroll featuring many local artists and musicians; the event kicked off with a gala reception. There were art demos exhibitions, prize draws and even an Art Stroll cuisine event that coincided with the Art Stroll. The 60th anniversary of the old Black Ball Ferries was observed in Gibsons Landing, while up in Ruby Lake, the Iris Griffith Centre and Lagoon Society held their annual AGM; they unveiled their Legacy Mosaic, a slideshow covering the past five years of progress. In mid-August, crowds flocked to Sechelt and Halfmoon Bay for the annual Rod Run and Festival of the Rolling Arts – vintage cars lined Sechelt’s Cowrie Street from start to finish, followed by trophy presentations. The Sechelt Library held their Summer Reading Finale with presentations to the 120 children who participated this summer; they read a total of 4,900 books. The Synchonicity Festival was held over two days at the Art Farm with attendance exceeding expectations. The event showcased some amazing performers and on-site art creations with prize draws and food vendors, put on in partnership with SC Tourism and VOICE. More Coast artists emerged in Gibsons when
the Roving Artists, a group of local painters, opened their three-day exhibit. The Gibsons Wildlife Rehabilitation held a farm-fresh fundraiser with renowned entertainer Chantel Upshaw, an art raffle prize draw and party. Meanwhile, organizers at the SPCA welcomed Coast pet owners who arrived for the annual Paws for a Cause fundraiser in droves, pets on leashes. In spite of the rain, the enthusiasm ran high and the turnout was great. Lehigh in Sechelt held their annual Open House, inviting members of the public in for a day of fun with the family, including free hot dogs and hamburgers, a bouncy castle and sand box along with facepainting, balloons and prize draws for everyone. A dazzling Mandala was unveiled in Roberts Creek at the 14th Annual Community Mandala event, which brought out crowds of people under a beautiful sunny sky. Canada mourned the loss of NDP leader, Jack Layton to prostate cancer August 22; Layton visited the coast, meeting with Nicholas Simons during a campaign that culminated in his leading the NDP to its place as the official opposition for the first time in Canada. His passing touched many Canadians and brought the issue of men’s cancers to the foreground. Patrick Bocking took over the reins as the new Superintendent on the Sunshine Coast in August, bringing (continued on page 7)
Thank You to all our guests and customers for making 2011 a successful year.
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The Local - Thursday, January 5, 2012 7
Looking back at 2011 (continued from page 6) with him some new and innovative ideas and enthusiasm for his new post. Family Harvest was the theme for this year’s Sunshine Coast Botanical Garden’s annual festival, held August 27, with displays, professional landscapers and garden supply vendors there to answer questions and display their wares. There were events for the family, including a magic show, fun plant-related events and a Home Harvest Contest, won by the smallest cucumber entry. As the month drew to a close, the annual Creek Daze was held in Roberts Creek, with a parade, food and fun for the family. Art and book sales were popular, but not quite as popular as the ice cream for those feeling the heat of a hot Sunshine Coast summer day. SEPTEMBER The month opened with the annual Labour Day Picnic, held in Dougal Park in Gibsons on Labour Day weekend. Music, balloons, facepainting and free hot dogs and burgers were the highlight of this fun family event. Unknown to many, the threat of a Red Tide was working its way down the coastal waters of the Strait of Georgia, and Fisheries sent out warnings against harvest of bivalve mollusks to prevent the illnesses associated with their consumption. Chapman Creek Hatchery asked Coasters to vote for them online so they might win $10,000 in an Internet competition for new signage. While they didn’t win the contest, the story renewed interest in the Hatchery. A teacher’s strike, looming since earlier in the year, has parents wondering about the situation their children will find when schools reopen for the year. Local RCMP donned their formal uniforms for the Ladies Red Serge Night fundraiser. It was announced that the referendum on dumping the HST and reverting to the PST/GST won by a majority, and the government would make plans to make
the change, warning the public that it will cost more money to do so than to keep the HST. The Coast Conservation Society held their annual raffle fundraiser to further the work of the society to preserve the biodiversity of the Coast region. At the SC Museum and Archives in Gibsons, the creation of a display of stone artifacts to stimulate interest in the culture of Coastal aboriginal tribes kept staff working into the night for their Grand Opening of the exhibit in early October. Over 40 hikers accompanied Elphinstone Logging Focus members into the ancient Dakota Ridge forest to see one of the largest Yellow Cedar trees on the Coast to draw attention to the need to preserve these ancient woodlands. The North Coast Salish Culture and Heritage Forum was held to examine the impacts of climate change, erosion and globalization and to highlight current work and discoveries. The Sunshine Coast Roller Girls lined up for their first bout at the Sechelt Arena September 10; the SCRG league had been holding practice sessions at the Holy Family Church prior to their bout with the Tournament City Derby Dolls from Vancouver. The SCRD continued its work with the Coastal Health Authority to ensure the safety of the drinking water from the Chapman Creek Watershed. After a summer of organizing the Thursday evening Night Markets for downtown Sechelt, the SDBA announced the winner of the raffle for a bike from Off the Edge was Haiden Gardner of Halfmoon Bay. Because of the diversity of our Coast, a diversity of problems sometimes ensues: an annual underwater cleanup was organized for the area at the south tip of Porpoise Bay to collect and take away a mass of trash that littered the ocean floor; turnout was great and a huge dent was made in the mess as tonnes of debris were hauled away. A retired Gibsons teacher
donated $500,000 to the YMCA Camp Elphinstone to help children who are unable to attend summer camps. A Gibsons man was honoured as well – for his contribution in bringing safety to jobsites. In Sechelt, Charles Streicker organized a coast-long run to raise money for aid to those in Haiti who were devastated by the earthquake. Canadian Tire was the finish line on the Sunshine Coast for the JumpStart bike race September 21, in which 23 cyclists took part to raise money to encourage youngsters to become more active; the store itself is a major donor to the program. The Gumboot Café was the venue for a poetry reading by Diana Hayes, who holds a Master’s degree in creative writing. The BC Government offered incentive for a wood stove swap program in order to reduce the particulates in the air and improve air quality in BC. OCTOBER Valdy appeared in concert at St. Bart’s Church in Gibsons, much to the delight of his many fans on the Coast. The SC Jazz and Entertainment Society hosted the evening. Pickleball became the talk of the town in Sechelt, when the Sechelt Senior’s Centre threw open their doors and invited the public in to learn more about all the programs and activities available there, in a bid to attract younger members. Dan Bouman, Executive Director of the Sunshine Coast Conservation Association, resigned his long-time position with the plan to run in the civic election for the Town of Gibsons.
The SCRD hosted a series of Fuel-Smart driver training programs for their employees in order to reduce transportation emissions. BC Hydro agreed to cut their proposed rate increase over the next three years. The Sunshine Coast Avalon Society held an Open House to show off their new Women’s Shelter in Sechelt to aid those struggling with addictions, eating disorders or other challenges. A Human/ Nature exhibit was featured at the Sechelt Art Centre, while award winning poet and novelist Steven Heighton gave the second of his fall readings, hosted by the Sechelt Art Council. In more Arts-related news, Pender Harbour author David Lee has published a novel entitled Commander Zero, set on the Sunshine Coast. October was a lucky month for a Gibsons mom who won $3.85M dollars on a lucky 6/49 lottery ticket. Watermark held the groundbreaking for their multimillion-dollar condo project on Teredo, with all of the officials, local and otherwise, beaming their pleasure. Gibsons Fall Fair was again a big hit, held at Quality Farm and Garden, with over 45 vendors, fun contests and great food; 2012 will see their biggest celebration yet, as they hit their 12th year! Those busy Sunshine Coast Elves were hustling in early November, putting into place their plans for a telethon to feature local talent. Audition calls went out in November, with a good response from the community. A Walk if You Believe fundraiser was held on the Coast (continued on page 9)
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8 The Local - Thursday, January 5, 2012
101 Activities & Events 102 Garage Sales 103 Announcements 104 Anniversary & Birthdays 105 Births 106 Obituaries 107 In Memoriam 108 Funeral Services 109 Personals 110 Childcare 111 Lost & Found 201 Health & Wellness 202 Health & Fitness 203 Sports & Exercise Equipment 204 Gardening 300 Pets & Livestock 400 Travel 500 Music 600 Computers 701 Antiques & Collectibles 702 Furniture 703 Appliances 704 Misc. for Sale 705 Wanted 706 Free 707 Trade & Barter 708 Financial Services 801 Cars for Sale 802 Trucks & SUV’s 803 Special Interest & Classics 804 RV’s & Campers 805 Motorcycles & Off Road 806 Parts & Accessories 807 Repairs & Service 900 Machinery & Tools 1000 Marine 1100 Storage 1200 Service Directory 1300 Firewood 1400 Work Wanted 1500 Business Opportunities 1600 Legal & Public Notices 1700 Log Homes 1701 Homes & Lots for Sale 1702 Mobile Homes for Sale 1703 Misc. Property for Sale 1704 Homes for Rent 1705 Apartments for Rent 1706 Misc. for Rent 1707 Commercial for Rent 1708 Shared Accommodation 1709 Vacation Rentals 1710 Wanted to Rent 1711 Wanted to Buy 1712 House Sitting 1800 Employment 1801 Careers 1900 Too Late to Classify
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103 ANNOUNCEMENTS
105 BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS
Alanon/Alateen for friends and families of alcoholics. Meetings Monday-Friday, 604-886-4594, 604-885-0101, 604-886-9059, 604-883-2882. btfn
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If your drinking is causing you problems but you don’t know how to stop, maybe we can help. Alcoholics Anonymous. 604885-8208. btfn
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Advertise in the paper that you read. Call The Local today. 604885-3134
s Gifts eJ annie’ & Gems Jewellery Repairs & Design Jewellery Repairs Jewellery Repairs Watch Clock Repairs &&Design Design & Appraisals Watch & & Clock Repairs Repairs Watch Clock Buy Gold at Best Buy Gold Best Price Buy Gold at BestPrice Price Appraisals Appraisals 604-886-2023 604-886-2023 604-886-2023 Serving the Coast since 1978 tfn
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106 OBITUARIES
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106 OBITUARIES Lil McCourt October 10, 1923 – December 25, 2011. Lil passed away peacefully in Shorncliffe. Predeceased by her husband Gordon of 59 years of marriage in 2000 and son Ron in 1990. Lil is survived by her sons Hugh (Faye), Tom (Karen), Steve (Jenny), daughter Donna, daughter-in-law Joyce, brother-in-law Dennis, 10 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, 9 nieces, 8 nephews and many friends. Lil was born in Rainy River, Ontario. Her family made their way west to Port Coquitlam where she met and married Gordon. In 1960 Gordon and Lil moved their family to Sechelt. Her interests included gardening, bowling, square dancing, St. Mary’s Hospital Auxilliary and taking care of her family. No service by request. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in memory of Lil to St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation Society (Shorncliffe Care Home) Box 1580, 5847 Medusa Street, Sechelt, BC V0N 3A0. A celebration of life may be planned for the spring. Many thanks to Dr. Bishop and the caring staff of Shorncliffe over the past five and a half years.
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Cordery, Dorothy Ann, nee Dawson November 17, 1915 ~ December 24, 2011
Passed away on Christmas Eve with her family at her side She lived a rich and full life and was deeply loved by her entire family. She will be greatly missed by her daughter, Sally Bondy, and her three grandchildren, Wendy deRoos, Montgomery and Bradley Bondy and their families. She came from a large family and was predeceased by seven siblings. Her father, Richard Dawson, was a well-known prospector in Northern Canada and managed a gold mine in Schumacher, Ontario, where Dorothy was born. Her pioneering background gave her great strength throughout her life. In 1941, Dorothy moved with her mother and family to Toronto where they lived for many years until 1975, when Dorothy moved to Peterborough, Ontario, where she married Bill Cordery. In 1989, she and Bill moved to Bowen Island. In 1991, after Bill passed away, she moved to the Coast with Sally and family. Dorothy enjoyed the beautiful Sunshine Coast and deeply appreciated Janice Young and Jacqueline at St. John’s United who visited her regularly and gave of their time during her last days. She also appreciated the many cards and flowers from all of her wonderful friends at St. John’s. Dorothy spent many pleasant hours playing bridge at the Davis Bay Hall and the Sechelt Seniors Centre. Some of the most enjoyable moments of her life were spent with her great-grandchildren, Terry, Wim, Joey, Jack, Suraya, Katie and Kiaan and also extended family members Rena, and her two children, Tarquinn and Ravynn. She was also closely attached to nieces: Fay, Alycia and Ruth; and nephews: Richard, Gary and Bill. Sincere thanks go to Dr. Sparrow and each one of the palliative care nurses and caregivers who contributed immensely to her comfort during the last weeks of her life. A memorial will be held at St. John’s United Church on January 21, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John’s United Church or to the S.C. Hospice Society. “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 41, Verse 31
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Thursday, January 5 •3:00pm-6:00pm. Farm Gate Market at Roberts Creek Hall (indoors). friday, January 6 •5:30pm. Egmont Movie Night. Kids movie 6:00pm, adult movie 8:00pm. Egmont Community Hall. Free. saturday, January 7 •10:00am-2:00pm. Scout’s Bottle Drive. Drop off at Home Hardware, Gibsons. For more info contact Barbara, 604-886-4591. sunday, January 8 •11:00am. Single and 55+? Meet the Brunch Bunch at the Blackfish Pub, Gibsons. monday, January 9 •9:45am. St. Mary’s Hospital/Health Care Auxiliary, Halfmoon Bay Branch Meeting at Cooper’s Green. New members always welcome. www.stmarysauxiliary.com •6:30pm. SC Film Society hosts a Special Opening Night Event with Director Dianne Whelan of the documentary film ‘40 Days at Base Camp’. Reception at 6:30pm, film to follow at 7:30pm. Tuesday, January 10 •5:00pm. Info session for new programs: Gateways to Health Careers & Intro to Cultural Tourism at Capilano University, 5627 Inlet Ave., Sechelt. Contact: 604-885-9310.
Thursday, January 12 •3:00pm-6:00pm. Farm Gate Market at Roberts Creek Hall (indoors). •7:00pm-9:00pm. Writers on the Bay. Write for fun at Davis Bay Community Centre. friday, January 13 •7:30pm. Royal Astronomical Society club meeting at the Sunshine Coast Arts Centre. “Bring your telescope and learn how to use it!” Everyone welcome. www.coastastronomy.ca saturday, January 14 •2:00pm. SCBGS presents ‘Armchair travel to Canada’s Far North’ with Glen Paterson. Garden book sale to follow. Sparling Pavilion, 5941 Mason Rd., Sechelt. sunday, January 15 •2:00pm. The Sojourners, seriously spiritual gospel singers perform at the School of Music, Madeira Park. For more information or tickets contact Francine at the Pender Harbour Music Society. www.penderharbourmusic.ca monday, January 16 •1:00pm. Gibsons Seniors Society monthly birthday lunch. Light buffet lunch, cake, jokes, sing-a-long. Open to all. www.gibsonsseniors.com Thursday, January 19 •3:00pm-6:00pm. Farm Gate Market at Roberts Creek Hall (indoors).
tfn
Looking back at 2011 (continued from page 7) to raise funds for victims of the massive earthquake in Haiti. Canuck Mason Raymond scored big with Coast fans with a surprise visit to the Canadian Tire store in Wilson Creek to help store owner, Jeff Endress and manager David Mazzon celebrate the store’s Grand Re-Opening October 15. The tragedy and damage created by earthquakes in other parts of the world was the driving force behind a BC-wide earthquake drill called ShakeOut BC. Coast residents were encouraged to practice what to do in the event of a big earthquake here, and make their own ‘earthquake kit’. Election advertising and signs were more evident by mid-month, with candidates sizing up their opponents in the run for civic office. Bears continue to be an issue, as warned by the BC Conservation office, who offered tips on how to make your yard unattractive to wildlife. The Sunshine Coast Model Railroad Club put out a call for new members with an offer of beginner’s training sessions. With fall here, people were advised to get their flu vaccinations; this year, vaccinations were available at pharmacies along the Coast. In the spirit of approaching Hallowe’en, the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives welcomed visitors to drop in to see their ‘haunted doll’ collection. Five animals survived a house fire when the homeowner ran into town for some shopping and returned to find the smoke billowing from the house. Members of the South Africa-Sunshine Coast Canada World Youth exchange project met in
Sechelt Oct. 12. West Sechelt Elementary School began a campaign to get sufficient votes to win a bid for funding to improve their playground so those with physical challenges could use the park. Target Marine’s application to include a processing plant on their property continues to raise the ire of some Coast residents and calls for a referendum result in the question being included on Sechelt election ballots. While teachers remain on strike, and report cards are not to be issued, the Sunshine Coast Teachers’ Association assures parents that their children will continue to receive the same high quality of education throughout the job action and will find ways to ‘communicate’ each child’s successes or challenges. The BCSPCA in Wilson Creek offers helpful hints on protecting pets during Hallowe’en fireworks. School District 46 publishes a Notice of Election by Voting, increasing the pre-election activities of those running for School Board positions. The Sechelt Downtown Business Association organized a Trick or Treat Trail in downtown Sechelt, much to the delight of young and old; crowds of children and adults in costume merged on Acacia Park. Gibsons bookstore owner Elle Conville pledges to take on Internet giant Amazon by starting a move to encourage people to support their local bookstores by buying at least one book a year locally. November BC Ministries of Labour, Citizens’ Services and Open Government, Margaret MacDiarmid announces an in-
crease in hourly minimum wage to $9.50 in general and $8.75 for liquor servers. Community Futures Sunshine Coast chaired a meeting at the Sunshine Coast Golf and Country Club featuring several of their thriving business clients. The topic moved to retiring business owners and a plan to use mentorship/apprenticeship as a means to keep the business thriving and give the retiring owner a cash payout to retire on. FAB, For A Better Sechelt, invites local business owners and residents to a meeting to encourage voter turnout and reiterate important local issues. Their agenda also included encouraging new candidates whose platforms included those issues deemed important to their members. The Sunshine Coast Equestrian Club hosted yet another successful Fox Hunt November 5. Gibsons great water was again in the spotlight when a delegation from Indonesia arrived to pick up pointers on water resources. The SCRD adopted their West Howe Sound Official Community Plan, a ‘significant achievement for our community’. Habitat for Humanity fundraiser raises more funds for their ongoing projects, and increases public awareness for the need of ongoing donations to this worthwhile cause. Sunshine Coast artisans find a venue at Sunnycrest Mall November 18 to showcase their crafts and offer products for sale to the public. In a tribute to her mother the late Peggy Small and to the soldiers who wrote her from the WWII front, local author Mary Conner offers a glimpse into a book she plans to write entitled
“Letters to Peggy”. Local veteran Doreen Ogilvie recalls her experiences as a war bride to mark our Remembrance Day features; local Legions come out in full regalia to the Remembrance Day ceremonies in their respective communities and the rain holds off until they conclude their outdoor ceremonies. Sunshine Coast Travel Ambassadors wind up their year with a Volunteer Appreciation luncheon. Hapi Foods invites local fundraisers to submit their requests for 2012 donations after being overwhelmed by requests throughout 2011. Home décor shops in Sechelt team up to create the first-ever Décor Discovery Walk, inviting local shoppers to see the wide selection of home décor items available locally. The Smart Meter program initiated by BC Hydro continues to worry Coast residents, many of whom organize to stop the installation of the meters on their homes. Innovative businesses were recognized at a MISTIC (Mid-Island Science Technology and Innovation Council) awards evening, including SideStix Ventures in the Emerging Product Design category. Sarah Doherty and Kerith Perreur-Lloyd were honoured for their high performance forearm crutch. Despite an increase in the minimum wage for liquor servers, BC Federation of Labour President Jim Sinclair calls for an end to what he views as the discriminatory practice of paying this segment of the workforce a lower wage. Skretting Canada presents a donation of $1,000 to the Chapman Creek Hatchery towards starter feed for 70,000 of the salmon they
raise there; the Hatchery releases hundreds of thousands of salmon and trout annually into lakes, rivers and the ocean. The government has decided to implement some of the recommendations made from the Davies Commission regarding lone workers who work nights at gas stations and convenience stores. Online training is offered to people working with autistic children in rural or remote areas of BC through Douglas College. Nikki Weber, long time Coast singer, entertainer and organizer for local groups such as the Mellow Tones, MiniTones and Quarter Tones, decides to retire at the age of 84. Janet Panic receives recognition from ANCA for her contributions and work with the organization. A Sunshine Coast vet, Dr. Hershel Frimer, hosts a ‘goats for folks’ fundraiser with the goal of raising $2,000 to aid in education and improvements in countries like Uganda. The Sunshine Coast Hospice Society’s Lights of Life kicks off at the Trail Bay Centre, to commemorate those loved ones who have passed on. The annual 2011 Rotary Club Auction lists are published for the November 19 event. Heather Conn’s newly released children’s book Gracie’s Got a Secret makes its debut on the Coast. The Local publishes a record 21 Letters to the Editor in our November 17 issue to ensure all voices will be heard prior to the elections. Gibsons father Michael Majgaard leaves the Coast to join his stepfather in a North Atlantic rowing race, a trip he believes will test him to the limit. Families take centre stage in The Best Christ-
mas Pageant Ever, put on by the Driftwood Players; the production was financed in part with a grant from the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation. The Sunshine Coast Conservation Association hosted its 9th annual Celebration of Conservation at the Sechelt Seniors’ Activity Centre. With the elections over, new electees begin the orientation exercises for their new posts. Sechelt’s own Shawn Hunt receives an award and recognition for being one of the leading BC First Nation’s Artists. Women from Kenya partnered with women from across Canada to visit the Gibsons Recycling Depot to learn about their Zero Waste Management program and take home their ideas to share. Schools on the Sunshine Coast were abuzz with smiles and moustaches in recognition of the Movember movement to bring more awareness of men’s cancers. BC Hydro vans flock to the Coast for the installation of Smart Meters in spite of resistance from some Sunshine Coast residents. December Carol Ships announce their sailing nights and routes, while Roberts Creek enjoys a taste of South Africa at a festive event. The Sunshine Coast Botanical Garden invites the public to visit their grounds for a Woodland Christmas. Capilano University is the site for the annual December 6th event to remember the victims of violence and increase awareness of the tragedy of violence against women and families. Roberts Creek hosts their (continued on page 11)
10 The Local - Thursday, January 5, 2012
2012 Forecast in brief Shanti Gifts 1001
Horoscope Michael O’Connor Astrologer
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SeCheLt BRanCh #140
Our office will be open through until 5 pm December 23.
Jan. 5, 2012
www.sunstarastrology.com 1.888.352.2936 Tip of the Week:
The following list of planetary activity occurs in 2012 and below is the summary themes for each sign. Mars will remain in Virgo until July 3 due Jan.retrograde 5, 2012 on to turning January 23. Jupiter begins the year at 0 Taurus then enters Gemini on June 11. Saturn in Libra since October 2009 will enter Scorpio in October 2012. Chiron at 2 degrees Pisces now will reach 10 by mid June and end the year at about 6. Uranus at 1 degrees, Aries will reach 8 by mid July and finish Lynn 1001 theAnn year at Florist 4. Neptune begins the year at the last degree of Aquarius, enters its own sign of Pisces on February 3, will reach 3 degrees by mid June and end the year at 1 Pisces. Pluto begins the year at 7, Capricorn achieves 10 by about mid April and completes the year at 9. The LunarJan.Nodes 5, 2012are currently in Sagittarius (North) and Gemini and will end their 18-month cycle to begin a new one in early September with the North Node in Scorpio and the South in Taurus. The most potent planetary aspect of the year will be between Uranus in Aries Square Pluto in Capricorn and this dynamic aspect pattern will be active for three years! Dec. 29, 2011 Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20) Expect powerful activations of your overall mode of self-expression. You will be extra challenged to let go of outworn attitudes, perceptions and behaviour patterns. Your interpretation of security will be transformed. Exercising patience with yourself, others and circumstances will be extra important, especially in the first half of the year.
Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21) The year will begin on Our office will be closed December 26 and 27; an expansive note. You office hours will resume as usual from December 28 throughKitchen to the 30th. will want to go big and is open hard somehow. Yet2012 others Jan. 5, tues - Fri will request and/or cir11am - 2pm cumstances demand that & sat 2 - 6pm you be more temperate. Diversifying your focus and interests will become increasingly attractive and perhaps necessary. In the last quarter especially, you will learn just how important it is to be more coopHall rental available with new prices • www.rcl140sechelt.com • 604-885-2526 erative.
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Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) Balancing out-reaching activities with connecting with your inner source of faith continues as the year begins. Achieving your highest ideals will become increasingly important; committed relationships are implied. By June you will feel more adventurous; increased travel and creative interests are likely. By late summer you will be ready to design your life anew! Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22) Increased responsibilities are on the rise. These will include taking leads and/or more time spent caring for others. Getting your own needs met as well, will therefore prove extra important. Beware of controlling tendencies, especially in the first six months. Your power potential will rise in autumn. Yet, you may have to work double time to feel confident about it and worldly affairs. Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 23) Carefully steering your career path will remain important all winter and spring. Taking calculated risks, key initiatives and pioneering leads is extra important. Increasing your social network is likely. Yet you are probably wise to avoid longterm contracts to be ‘live on the stage’. Studio work will gain increasing appeal, especially by late summer. Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22) Building and strengthening your overall foundation is a central theme this year. This will include reaching out more to access the skills, services and talents of others. Your career and/or public/social life stands to expand as a result, especially from late spring onward. Realizing dreams and ideals in your relationships will become a priority, yet you will have to remain strong on your own feet. Libra (Sep 22 – Oct 22) Measurable changes on the relationship and home fronts will continue this year. Yet, your financial situation could change for the better, especially during the first half of the year. But don’t spend frivolously; you will be glad you didn’t by the end of the year. Key investments especially will gain your attention or begin to in autumn. Meanwhile be extra deliberate with your health.
Scorpio (Oct 22 – Nov 21) Changes in your lifestyle bringing changes of perception and vice versa will continue in 2012. At best, your social network stands to expand and with it, new opportunities will present themselves. Continue to move forward and do not look back, lest you get caught in the past. Old ego patterns will continue to dissolve and autumn will offer a clean quick release into the future. Sagittarius (Nov 21 – Dec 21) The call of new adventures is and will continue to call you out this year. Yet, establishing a more stable and efficient base is part of the plot. Any wishes to be free from previous lifestyle rhythms and patterns will be granted later in the year especially. This pace may seem slower than you like in the first half but the summer season will bring a significant acceleration and new relationships. Capricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19) You will be pushing yourself rather hard this year. This is especially a good idea earlier on. The more you can create a healthy momentum, literally, the better. Returns for sincere previous efforts will come in but not until late in the year. Continue to work others towards achieving greater harmony and to know better how they can prove to be useful allies. Aquarius (Jan 19 – Feb 19) The thirst for new information will increase for you in 2012. Your confidences will rise steadily as well and before summer’s end you will see the world with significantly new perspectives. Yet your responsibility levels will reach new peaks before the year is complete. Bringing more feeling, depth and passion to your work and lifestyle will characterize the year. Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Making foundational changes linked to your talents, skills and other resources will characterize the year until late spring. Your ability to focus better will grow as the year progresses and your confidence levels will as well. Joining forces with others will become increasing necessary and ideal especially by late summer.
The Local - Thursday, January 5, 2012 11
Looking back at 2011 (continued from page 9) annual Christmas Craft Fair and both the Masonic Hall and the Roberts Creek Hall are packed for the weekend event with both artisans and shoppers looking for the perfect locally created gift. Johnny Brynelsen of Halfmoon Bay was awarded a book prize for his outstanding participation at the Secondary School’s United Nations Symposium. A wild storm hits the Coast with rain and almost galeforce winds, driving already high-tide ocean waves onto beaches, but providing local photographers with amazing photo opportunities. Another dramatic photo opportunity presented itself when a logging truck rolled near Davis Bay, just meters from the bridge. While no injuries were reported, the incident served to reinforce the Davis Bay Park Committee’s petition for the creation of a bypass road for heavy traffic around that area. The Elves Club annual Telethon was a big hit on the Coast, with performers from all up and down the Coast performing live on Coast Cable. The Elves were thrilled to announce that, through the Telethon and other fundraisers, they had achieved their goal to fund all the Christmas Hampers for local needy families. The Sunshine Coast Community Orchestra, the Sunshine Coast Concert Band and the Sunshine Coast Youth Orchestra performed brilliantly at the Gibsons Heritage theatre, with a second performance at the Sechelt Indian Band Hall. Pender Harbour Carol Ships organize their sail once again, much to the delight of Coasters who annually turn out to watch the lighted ships sail past. At the Sunnycrest Mall, the Coast Phoenix Choir sang with Santa in the spirit of the season, while at the Seaside Centre in Sechelt, many home-based businesses made their Christmas shopping debut, with an assortment of locally made and order-in products. Reverend Pam McGee cel-
ebrated 35 years as the first ordained woman into the Lutheran church. Throughout the year, but especially in December, pennies and coins poured into The Local office in support of Grandmothers and GrandOthers, a project to assist those S. African families who have adopted children orphaned by AIDS. West Sechelt Elementary School makes it into the Semi-Finals in their bid to gather enough votes to win improvements to their local playground. The 2011 Successful You Awards, coordinated through Small Business BC, were given locally to two businesses that made the cut over nominations from 15 other communities across the province. Hapi Foods placed in the Best Community Impact category and Gibsons Recycling Depot placed in the Best Green Business category. Driftwood Players were again onstage, this time at Tim Horton’s where they performed A Christmas Carol. Later in the month, they also performed the play at Sunnycrest Mall to an appreciative audience. Capilano University - Sunshine Coast Campus was awarded a Platinum status for demonstrating innovative and responsible water use. The Sunshine Coast almost makes the top as medicinal pot use capital, after placing second to Ontario. A Hungry Caterpillar concert at West Sechelt Elementary steals hearts as kindergarten students perform for the first time before an audience of parents and grandparents. Motorists were alerted to trouble December 11 when police, fire trucks and an ambulance blocked off one section of Oceanview Drive near Gibsons as a result of a gas leak; a line was punctured by a backhoe in operation at the time. Chapman Creek released 1,000 fish into Coast lakes. Santa came to Trail Bay Centre and set the mall humming with shoppers and families lining up for photos with the jolly old elf. A grieving mother decorates a Christmas tree in Acacia Park
in memory of her son, Tom Bennett, as a fundraiser to establish a scholarship in her son’s memory. In keeping with the season of giving, Canadian Tire’s Jeff Endress donates to both the Sunshine Coast Salvation Army and to the Sunshine Coast Food Bank on behalf of the store as only part of the donations they distribute throughout the community each year. Santa thrills youngsters at Sunnycrest Mall amidst the hustle of busy last-minute Christmas shoppers. Suncoast Woodcrafters, who spend the year creating wooden toys for needy children, donated the toys to Sunshine Coast Community Services for distribution. Telus representatives visit the Sunshine Coast after local Telus retirees encourage them to make a donation to St, Mary’s Hospital Foundation; the communications giant donated $5,000 towards the renovations and
much-needed equipment. Guardian Pharmacy announces they will open a second pharmacy adjacent to the Sechelt Medical Clinic. A multicultural party was held at the Sechelt Indian Band hall Dec. 11, hosted by the ESL Settlement Assistance Program of Capilano University and Sunshine Coast Literacy Council. At least 24 young artists were recognized for their outstanding creativity by local judges in the annual Coast Arts Council Young Artists Awards. The Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives introduces new technologies that will enable visitors to experience the past; meanwhile, work begins on creating lasting archives of Sunshine Coast newspapers – beginning with The Coast News, an important community broadsheet newspaper that flourished on the Sunshine Coast for almost 100 years. So now, we are looking ahead to what 2012 will bring!
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TUITION-FREE*
IntroductIon to cultural tourIsm March 12 - May 19, 2012 • 10-week prograM
Learn about the growing importance of the aboriginal culture in the tourism industry. This program prepares students with hands-on skills for employment in BC's tourism industry cultural tours, Thisincluding is yourguiding ad proof leadership, and wilderness first aid training.
in the next issue of
First Aid Training Workplace • Childcare Industrial • Marine Family • Healthcare
Gateways to The HealtHcare careers
Local
February 6 - april 27, 2012 • 12-week prograM
This program is for students who are interested in working in the healthcare sector. Hands-on training Oct 13, 2011 Issue Date: ____________________ including: career and lifestyle planning, computer skills training, firstDeadline aid training,for andapproval Foodsafe & Worksafe BC certificates and a practicum.
or changes is Monday by 3:00 p.m. InformatIon sessIon
Worksafe BC approved Courses
If we do10 not@hear from you by this Tuesday, January 5-6 p.m. time, we can assume all is correct.Sechelt Capilano University, 5627 Inlet Avenue,
Register online or call for info
For more inFormation Please let us know call how we604.885.9310
We schedule courses by request. Training on your schedule. www.bcfirstaid.ca
60 4. 88 5. JUMP
E M PLOYM E N T SOCIE TY
58 67
can serve * Both programs are funded by you Firstbest. Nations Employment Your important to us! (C3). Society(FNES) andbusiness Coastal isCorridor Consortium
coastal corridor
CONSORTIUM Artwork contained in this submission remains the property of Niiji Studios.
Capilano university sunshine coast campus Submitted by
Janine Island, Niiji Studios 604-725-6723 niijistudios@gmail.com www.niiji.com
www.capilanou.ca/sunshine
Kenan Mackenzie Happy New Year to everyone! Phone 604-885-7810 Fax 604-886-3753
Toll free 1-888-466-2277 kenanmackenzie@dccnet.com www.kenanmackenzie.com
Feature Listing: 495 spygLass $739,000
Executive View Home! This 2 year old 4 bdrm & den home features 180 degree views of the North Shore mountains to the straight of Georgia, 3200 sq ft of luxury space, rancher style with a walkout basement, M Bdrm with spacious 5 pce ensuite, plus another master suite, hardwood floors throughout main, stunning vaulted ceilings, stone clad fireplace, gourmet kitchen with large island and stainless appliances, low E Argon filled windows and high efficiency heat pump (heat/winter, air conditioning/summer). Legal lower suite all this and a short walk to elementary school, high school, shopping and lower Gibsons.
12 The Local - Thursday, January 5, 2012
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GOVERNMENT GRANTS AVAILABLE under the ecoENERGY Retrofit program!
SHOULD YOU GET A TANKLESS OR A TRADITIONAL WATER HEATER?
SolarBC Registered Installer
HOURS Monday- Friday: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Saturdays 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
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