Westerly News
News updates: westerlynews.ca
Providing Service to th
e We
December 11, 2013 Wednesday
Serving Tofino and Ucluelet
$1.00 [INCLUDING TAX]
st Coast • 360º Kitchen & Bat h Showroom • Complete Door & Wi ndow Showroom • Comprehensive Too l Center • Lumber/Building Ma terials Supply • Full Service R/C Cen ter • We offer free bluepr int estimates • We offer kitchen des ign layouts • We offer custom do ors and windows
Come and see what we can do for you!
4643 Gertrude Street, Port Alberni 250-724-1291
GOVERNMENT
Osborne to address provincial leadership academy
The 12 Dogs of Christmas
West Coasters make room for Fido - and a chicken - in pictures with Santa
Westerly News Now THAT’s a good dog. And, not to leave anyone out, a good chicken. Some 43 pets made Santa’s mostly-nice list at Hug-a-bull’s first West Coast pet pics with Santa event. Part canine chaos and three parts Christmas joy, the event at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort raised $700 for Hug-abull. a registered nonprofit pitbull rescue/ support organization to help rescue and foster dogs with vet bills, sup-
ANDREW BAILEY
Westerly News Tofino Mayor Josie Osborne has been invited to speak at the Local Government Leadership Academy Forum from Feb. 5-7. The academy is based in Richmond and puts on a series of seminars around B.C. in years immediately following local government elections—the next round of these will be 2015—and holds a provincial leadership forum every off-year. These forums have been running since 2007 bringing local leaders together to inspire each other and share effective governance methods. The theme for this year’s event is Through the Looking Glass: Reflections on Leadership and it will include a panel of young first-time government officials representing the next generation of municipal and First Nations leadership. “It’s about looking at this past term of office and reflecting on how they’ve done, how they’ve had an impact on the community and how public service has had an impact on them personally,” said the academy’s program manager Errin Morrison. She said Osborne pitched the idea of including a session on See TOFINO page 16
JACKIE CARMICHAEL
Kristi Udell and family with Santa Jimmy Wing and Mayday, their blonde Shepherd cross. Photo, Marilyn McEwen
INSIDE THIS W INSIDETHIS WEEK: WEEK WEE K OPEN WIDE A root canal for Walter the Sea Otter, recovering from Tofino shooting
MERRY CRITTERS TO YOU: West Coast turns out to send seaside friends home PAGE 10&11
See See DOGS page Se S ee 12
more pictures inside!
Dognet: Lost Goomba sparks all-out search JACKIE CARMICHAEL
Westerly News Now Goomba has been rescued twice. Startled by a jolt from an electrified fence while on a Christmas tree hunting expedition with friends, Erika Greenland’s rescue mutt bolted into the woods near the landfill on Dec. 5. A flurry of well-wishes for her return on Facebook prompted a West Coast-wide missing-dog search this week
just as temperatures plunged. David Woodward headed out to the logging roads behind the landfill to trace where the 1.5-year-old Tofitian mutt might have gone. “I went back and forth shouting her name, played a bit of music in my car,” he said. Woodward’s pet ferret is like his kid, so he knew how badly Greenland was missing
See LOST page 6
FINAL ADVERTISING DEADLINE FOR THE WESTERLY NEWS HOLIDAY EDITION IS 12 NOON ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 16 The Westerly News will publish our Annual Holiday Edition on Wednesday, December 18 and will return in the New Year on Wednesday, January 8.
Bottom of Westerly Xmas Deadlines.indd 1
2013-12-10 10:19 AM
Page 2 | The Westerly News
The Westerly News (1987) Ltd. is a division of VI Newspaper Group Limited Partnership
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Community Events
To list your West Coast event, call 250 726-7029 or e-mail office@westerlynews.ca
O Christmas Tree!
The Westerly News publishes weekly on Wednesday and regularly posts online at www.westerlynews.ca. WHO WE ARE
Left, Ucluelet Scouts help Santa out by selling Christmas trees at the Co-op. Westerly News photo by Andrew Bailey.
Hugh Nicholson, publisher hnicholson@glaciermedia.ca Jackie Carmichael, editor editor@westerlynews.ca
Send us your community pics at office@westerlynews.ca
Andrew Bailey, reporter reporter@westerlynews.ca Paul Schroeder, advertising advertising@westerlynews.ca
Looking forward to hearing from you!
CONTACT US P.O. Box 317, Ucluelet B.C. V0R 3A0 [1–1920 Lyche Rd., Ucluelet] Phone: 250-726-7029 Fax: 250-726-4282 E-mail: office@westerlynews.ca DEADLINES Display ads Monday at noon Call 250-266-0557 office@westerlynews.ca Classified ads Tuesday at 10 a.m. Call 250-726-2237 classifieds@westerlynews.ca The Westerly News Holiday Edition publishes Dec. 18. The regular publishing schedule will resume Jan. 8, 2014. Letters to the editor Monday at noon office@westerlynews.ca SUBSCRIPTIONS Local area: $75.18 Seniors (local): $63.91 Canada: $84.56 U.S.: $155.18 To subscribe call: 1-888-311-7713 or 250-729-4266
We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. The Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News, a division of the VI Newspaper Group Limited Partnership, respects your privacy. We collect, use and disclose your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Statement which is available by calling 250-729-4223. The contents of this newspaper are protected by copyright and may be used only for personal, non-commercial purposes.
11 WEDNESDAY Recycling Day in Tofino. Winter’s Fire: seasonal arts and crafts show opening Inkwis, Tofino. Food, art. 5-8 p.m. Wednesday 11:15 a.m-11:45 a.m. Story time for preschool children ages 3-5 . Ucluelet library at the Ucluelet Community Centre Strong Start, Ucluelet Elementary School, 8:35-11:35 a.m. Holy Family Church, 9:30am, 1664 Peninsula Rd. Ucluelet. Adults/Seniors Chi Gong, 10:30– 11:30am, UCC fitness studio. Preschool Play Group, 10am–noon, Tofino Community Hall. Youth Health Clinic Ucluelet, 10–11:30am, youth room, Ucluelet Community Centre (library entrance). Access to the health nurse 250-720-5471. Youth Health Clinic Tofino, 1–2:30pm, Coastal Family Place, 265 First St. Access to the health nurse 250-720-5471. Ucluelet Sunshine Club, 1pm, Forest Glen. Seniors Social Afternoons, 1:30-4pm, Tofino Legion. Free admission & refreshments. Dominos, crib, board games, pool, snooker & darts. Ucluelet library, open 1–6pm.
12 THURSDAY Internationally recognized musician, peace poet, troubadour, rabble-rouser, philosopher and entertainer; David Rovics performs Dec. 12, Clayoquot Sound Theater at 8 p.m. St. Columba Church Bible Study 10:30 am, Ucluelet Community Center, Healthy Babies Program/Family Ties, 10:30am. Drop-in for expectant, new parents, Coastal Family Place,
Tofino. Wickaninnish Community School’s StrongStart program. Monday and Fridays 8:45-11:45 Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10:30-1:30 Free community lunch, noon–2pm, Coastal Community Services Hub, Ucluelet. Info 250-726-2343. The Edge Youth Room, 3–6pm, Ucluelet Community Centre & Youth Nite at the Edge (cooking, movies, art projects & more), 6–8pm, $2. Tofino library, 331 Main St., 3–7pm. Pacific Rim Toastmasters, 7:30pm, Rm 1, UCC. Info: 250-726-2766. Drop-in Bingo, doors 7pm, early-bird 7:30–8pm, full games 8–10pm, Tofino Legion. Badminton, 8–10pm, USS gym. $2 AA meeting, 8pm, Holy Family Ch., 1663 Peninsula Rd., Ucluelet. 250-726-2712/4220.
13 FRIDAY Big Beach Theatre movies, UCC, Ucluelet - see What’s On, Page 14 Strong Start, Ucluelet Elementary School, 8:35-11:35 a.m. Tofino Library Storytime 11:30 a.m.12 noon. 331 Main St. Preschool children with adult welcome. The Edge Youth Room, 2–6pm, Ucluelet Community Centre & Youth Sports Day, 3–5pm. Free. Holy Family Church, 7pm, 1664 Peninsula Rd. Ucluelet.
14 SATURDAY Breakfast with Santa, Sat. Dec. 14, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Ucluelet Community Centre Ucluelet library, Ucluelet Community Centre, open 10am–2pm. Tofino library, 331 Main St., open 10am–noon & 1–5pm. St. Francis of Assisi Church, mass 5:30pm, 441 Main St. Tofino.
AA meeting, 7:30pm, St. Francis Church, 441 Main, Tofino. Open. Call 250-725-3446.
15 SUNDAY Sunday, Dec 15th, 10 am – 12pm Breakfast with Santa. Tofino Community Hall. Admission by donation with the proceeds going to the Kids Access Fund. Family Games Night at Sunday, Dec. 15 at 7-9 p.m. at UCC. Hosted Junior Youth Empowerment Program. All welcome. 250-266-0237 Christ Community Church, 10:30am, 1419 Peninsula Rd. Ucluelet. Grace Bible Church, 10:30am, Ucluelet Community Ctr., 500 Matterson Dr. Holy Family Church, 9:30am, 1664 Peninsula Rd. Ucluelet. St. Columba Church, 10:30am, 110 Second St. Tofino. Tofino Bible Fellowship meets at the Tofino Legion Hall, 331 Main Street at 10:30
16 MONDAY Monday Night Movies, Tofino, Clayoquot Community Theatre, see What’s On column on Page 15 for details Strong Start, Ucluelet Elementary School, 8:35-11:35 a.m. Floor hockey, 7–9pm, Ucluelet Seaplane Base Rec Hall. $2 drop-in. Indoor Soccer, 8–10pm, USS gym, $2 Competitive & drop-in darts, doors 7pm, play 8pm, Tofino Legion.
17 TUESDAY Strong Start, Ucluelet Elementary School, 5-8pm Healthy Babies Program/Family Ties, 10:30am. Drop-in for expectant parents & new parents, Coastal Community Services Hub, Ucluelet Community Centre. 250-726-2224.
Ucluelet library, Ucluelet Community Centre, open 1–6pm. The Edge Youth Room, 3–6pm, Ucluelet Community Centre & Girl’s Roller Derby, ages 13–18, 3pm, Seaplane Base Rec Hall. Youth night, 7-9pm, Tofino Legion. Free admission, snacks & drinks. Pool, snooker, foosball, hockey table, darts & board games. Supervision provided, parents welcome. St. Francis of Assisi Church, mass 5pm, 441 Main St. Tofino. Food Bank on the Edge, pick up 1–3pm, Seaplane Base Rd. AA meeting, 7:30pm, St. Francis Church, 441 Main, Tofino. Roller Derby Practice, 7-9pm, Seaplane Base Rec Hall. Basketball, 7–10pm, USS gym.
18 WEDNESDAY Wed., Dec. 18, Harbour Lights Sail Pass, 7 p.m. at Main Street Dock/ Ucluelet Aquarium A Christmas Carol Sing-a-long will be held Wednesday December 18, 2013 @ 3 PM at St. Columba Church in Tofino.
19 THURSDAY Christmas Lunch for West Coast Community Resources Society, Dec. 19 at UCC gym from12-2. 8th annual event, ALL are welcome. Christmas Jam, Wickaninnish Community School (Thurs. Dec. 19th at 1pm) and Ucluelet Elementary, Friday Dec. 20th at 1pm) .Christmas sing-a-long. Community Musicians can bring their instruments and join school’s guitar players. Chords and lyrics will be displayed. Musicians RSVP to Beth Harling at bharling@sd70.bc.ca to reserve chair. Hot cider and gingerbread to raise money for the music program.
IN OUR DEC. 18 HOLIDAY EDITION, THE WESTERLY NEWS WILL PUBLISH A HOLIDAY CALENDAR THAT WILL INCLUDE COMMUNITY EVENTS THROUGH JAN. 8, 2014. Send your listings, story ideas and photos to editor@westerlynews.ca. Reach us by phone at 250-726-7029.
The Westerly News | Page 3
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Walter the famous sea otter gets root canal JACKIE CARMICHAEL
Westerly News Open wide. Walter the Sea Otter got a root canal this week at the Vancouver Aquarium. He was completely anesthetized for the procedure, and is recovering splendidly, said Lindsaye Akhurst. “We had a dental specialist come in, a veterinary dental specialist,” Akhurst said. He also lost two small incisor teeth and one of his molars, she said. “He’s able to eat just fine without them,” Akhurst said.
The marine mammal caused a media uproar after he was discovered in the water near Tofino. He had birdshot pellets throughout his body and his head and a flipper, and the sight in both eyes was damaged. The plucky animal has thousands rooting for him, although the incident focused public scrutiny on sea otters and their role in the ecology. Repatriated to B.C. waters around 1970 after being hunted to extinction a century ago, the animals are
despised by some in the geoduck fisheries for their high metabolism and voracious appetite for expensive geoducks and other shellfish. Rafts of sea otters can decimate a shoreline’s harvest, according to some in the industry. The sea otter’s luxurious fur, once prized for clothing, is their sole source of insulation and must be kept groomed so they can stay warm and afloat, so Walter had been getting regular See SURGERY, page 8
Walter the sea otter goes in for dental surgery at the Vancouver Aquarium after getting shot in the face in Tofino. Blinded in the shooting, he will be unable to return to the wild.
Pedestrian struck after driver fails to stop at Tofino crosswalk Tofino RCMP arrived at the Tofino General Hospital on Dec. 5 around 6 p.m. to speak with a man who had been struck by a vehicle while crossing the marked crosswalk at the corner of Campbell Street and First Street The pedestrian was looking down at his cell-phone and, through his peripheral vision, noticed a vehicle pulling up to the 4-way stop. He continued crossing the crosswalk but the driver did not stop, resulting in the crash, according to Sgt. Anderson. The driver did stop to assist the pedestrian they had struck and both parties exchanged information. Police have interviewed the driver and an investigation is ongoing, according to Anderson who said the pedestrian sustained minor injuries.
Man arrested after argument with niece A woman contacted police on Nov. 29 around 9:30 p.m. to allege her uncle had assaulted her. RCMP arrived at the Ty-Histanis residence and found several intoxicated people inside, accord-
ing to Sgt. Anderson. Anderson said the woman told police the argument with her uncle had started because he was tampering with a breaker box and she believed he was at risk of electrocuting himself. The argument became physical and resulted in the uncle sustaining a cut to his head, according to Anderson. Anderson said the uncle, who was intoxicated, was arrested for assaulting his niece and an RCMP investigation is ongoing.
Intoxicated woman spends night in cell Ahousaht RCMP were called to a residence to check on the welfare of an intoxicated woman on Dec. 1 around 7:45 p.m. When police arrived the owner of the residence advised that the woman was no longer welcome in the home, according to Sgt. Anderson. Anderson said the woman was belligerent and uncooperative with police. The woman’s father was at the scene but when police asked if he was willing to take his daughter home he declined due to the con-
Dec. 11 Tofino RECYCLES
dition she was in, according to Anderson. The woman was arrested and spent the night in cells.
Cops nab 2 impaired drivers in 2 days Tofino RCMP were patrolling around Campbell Street on Nov. 28 around 2:20 a.m. when they spotted a black Dodge Ram driving without its headlights on. After passing the vehicle it appeared to the officer that the driver of the Dodge accelerated in an effort to leave the area quickly, according to Sgt. James Anderson. The driver was pulled over and RCMP noted a strong smell of alcohol on their breath. An approved screening device test was issued which the driver failed. The driver received an immediate 90-day driving prohibition and their vehicle was impounded for 30 days. RCMP nabbed another impaired driver the following day after receiving a call around 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 29 that alleged the driver of a white van near Tofino General Hospital had been drinking. Police located the vehicle and
pulled it over on Tree Frog Lane, according to Anderson. He said RCMP noticed a strong smell of alcohol on the driver’s breath and read the roadside demand for a breath sample but the driver refused to blow into the officer’s approved screening device. Refusing to provide a sample has the same effect as failing a test and the driver was issued an immediate
90-day driving prohibition and had their vehicle impounded for 30 days. +++ RCMP responded to 43 calls for service in Tofino and 10 in Ahousaht from Nov. 28 to Dec. 5.
West Coast Business directory
ADVENTURE SHOPPING
KRIS·S ROOFING
REPAIRS • REROOFING • NEW CONSTRUCTION
at
CARGO
Kris Wieteska
30 years experience
THRIFT
250-726-5107 Free estimates Ucluelet, BC
Quality used housewares, clothes, books & music
• • • • • •
RESIDENTIAL ONLY UCLUELET•TOFINO•SALMON BEACH ASPHALT/FIBERGLASS LAM. SHINGLES METAL CLADDING variety of colours & shapes CEMENT AND CLAY ROOF TILES SKYLIGHTS & SUNTUBES
To advertise in this directory... call: 250-726-7029 or email: office@westerlynews.ca
OPEN 11-5 MON-SAT MAIN ST. UCLUELET (across from CIBC) Supporting local charities Donation items welcome
T H U R S DAY 1 2
F R I DAY 1 3
S AT U R DAY 1 4
S U N DAY 1 5
M O N DAY 1 6
T U E S DAY 1 7
Rainy/windy 2/7
Clouds/showers 4/7
Rainy/windy 5/7
Rain 5/8
Rain 5/4
Rain 8/4
R E M E M B E R — R e d u c e , R e u s e , R e cy c l e !
Son Bird Refuse & Recycling 250-726-4406 Chris Bird 250-726-8144
Local tides brought to you by:
TIDES Thursday 12 metres
02:12 08:31 15:27 21:37
Friday 13 feet
1.5 4.9 3.5 11.5 1.0 3.3 2.9 9.5
metres
03:12 09:22 16:20 22:36
Saturday 14 feet
1.6 5.2 3.6 11.8 0.8 2.6 3.0 9.8
metres
04:06 10:08 17:07 23:25
Sunday 15 feet
1.7 5.6 3.6 11.8 0.7 2.3 3.1 10.2
metres
04:54 10:51 17:48
Monday 16 feet
1.7 5.6 3.7 12.1 0.6 2.0
metres
00:09 05:36 11:30 18:26
Tuesday 17 feet
3.2 10.5 1.7 5.6 3.7 12.1 0.6 2.03
metres
00:48 06:14 12:07 19:00
Wednesday 18 feet
3.2 10.5 1.7 5.6 3.6 11.8 0.6 2.0
metres
01:25 06:50 12:42 19:33
feet
3.2 10.5 1.7 5.6 3.6 11.8 0.6 2.0
Ucluelet / Tofino www.coastrealty.com 250-726-7474
Opinion
Page 4 | The Westerly News
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
What do YOU think? Go online to www.westerlynews.ca to answer this week’s poll question: Is Santa Claus relevant? a) I love Santa Claus and his reindeer too! b) The concept of Santa is fun for kids and a great, giving mascot for the holidays. c) Jesus is the real meaning of Christmas, and it was named to honour his birth. d) Santa Claus is linked to either Christian tradition or commercialism, and has no place in a forward-thinking society. e) It would be better to have just a “holiday” season since there are so many religions and traditions, from Kwanzaa to Solstice to Hanukkah and so on. f) Bah humbug.
?
Last week’s results: 18% of respondents said “The law is the law. Have a licence or don’t treat animals,” while 47% said as long as she hangs a sign that says she’s not licensed, former veterinarian should be allowed to help local pets. And 35% of respondents went even further, saying “They should never have taken her license away.”
OUR VIEW
A case of red-tapeworm? See someone licenced for THAT When the only local West Coast resident FORMER veterinarian Jane hunt gets slapped with threat of Supreme Court action on behalf of the College of Veterinarians of British Columbia lest she (gasp) help animals, the ripples are felt all over the West Coast community. A flurry of social media activity is questioning even the circumstances in which she was forced several years ago to surrender her vet licence – because, Jane Hunt told the Westerly News, she couldn’t afford an entire animal hospital facility. A non-scientific poll conducted by www.westerlynews. ca this week found just 18% of respondents said “The law is the law. Have a licence or don’t treat animals,” while 47% said as long as she hangs a sign that says she’s not licensed, she should be allowed to help local pets. And 35% of respondents went even further, saying “They should never have taken her license away.”
Jackie Carmichael Editor If I read the CVBC’s website link to its Facility Practice Standards right, to be a licenced veterinarian you have to have very specific facilities. And I’m not just talking about worm medicine, a frick speculum and an emasculator, although they are on the list and I wouldn’t be surprised if Jane Hunt still knew what to do with them, although she’s been stripped of her DVM. According to the CVBC, if you’re not registered and licenced with them, you must not diagnose and treat animals for prevention, alleviation or correction of disease, injury pain, defect, disorder. And if you do, the college MAY apply to the Supreme Court for an injunction to restrain a person from contravening any provision the Act.
The Court may award of costs where it concludes that a person has engaged in the unauthorized practice of veterinary medicine. Only registrants of the College may charge a fee. But not charging a fee is no defence against being charged with unauthorized practice of medicine. That said, animal owners and others MAY be permitted to perform veterinary services. These include first aid in case of emergency; treatment of your own animal or by someone employed in agricultural or domestic work; scientific research. A paper on the CVBCsite says “common areas of unauthorized practice” include nutraceutical medicine, pharmacy. Okay. They also see areas of unauthorized practice in acupuncture, lasers, magnets, alternative practices like Reiki, Traditional Chinese Medicine; botanical medicine, chiropractic examination, dentistry (anything beyond cosmetic teeth cleaning); neuter-
ing, dehorning, administering vaccines, diagnostic testing; suturing, homeopathy, holistic medicine, massage therapy and “behavioural consultants” who independently assess and treat companion animals. No mention here of people who read animal horoscopes or help dogs meditate and cats do yoga, though - but that may not have occurred to them yet. Can you call yourself a “former veterinarian” or is it the Former Profession That Must Not Be Named? There’s no room here for laissezfaire; according to the CVBC, all member of the college are “bound by ethical duty” to turn in people who don’t comply with their bylaws. Now, in a little market like the West Coast, it’s not surprising a sole practitioner can’t afford an entire animal hospital. Most businesses outsource things it’s not economically feasible to do here. And a doctor on a lifeboat, with-
out a single medical record or speculum or X-ray machine or operating table in sight, is still a doctor, yes? Denying West Coasters’ pets an immediate source of help because one senior former veterinarian doesn’t have all the bells and whistles - in light of a population of pet lovers unserved by full-time, resident West Coast veterinary care - is perceived by many on the West Coast as unadvisedly harsh, and effectively inhumane. As does making the decision to declare anyone without a big mortgage on a fully-decked-out hospital not a vet. Might have a little red-tapeworm there, CVBC. You should see someone licenced for that. I’m told the CVBC is welcoming letters of concern at reception@ cvbc.ca I’d like to hear from you on this issue. Reach me at editor@westerlynews.ca, or at the office at 250-726-7029.
LETTERS POLICY: The Westerly News welcomes letters to the editor. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity, taste, legality and length. We require your hometown and a daytime phone number for verification purposes. Letters must include your first name (or two initials) and last name. Unsigned letters and letters of more than 300 words will not be accepted. Email submissions to office@westerlynews.ca
Opinion II The Westerly News | Page 5
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
LETTERS
Bully behaviour from the College of Veterinarians re: Jane Hunt I am writing to voice my concerns over the recent threat to Jane Hunt from the College of Veterinarians of BC to stop helping animals in need on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. I am completely disappointed to hear that this organization can make such an unsympathetic threat to such an empathetic and caring human being who has only the best interest of animals in her mind. Clearly your organization does not have the same good intentions as Jane Hunt. If you saw the reality and challenges of being a responsible pet owner on the West Coast, you would also see the value in this person who has put her love and care for animals in the forefront, donating her services to injured and sick animals when they need her most. Shame on you for bullying this upstanding member of our community for providing her skills to those in a time of need. If you truly cared about these animals, this community, or the selfless giving of human beings, you would see the error in your ways and issue a formal apology to this caring woman. Short of that, if you demand Jane Hunt to stop volunteering her skills to help the helpless pets on
the West Coast (a region that cannot attract a “legal” veterinarian because it is not financially viable) then your organization should consider subsidizing a veterinary clinic here so that people have somewhere to take their sick and injured pets. Perhaps you should take a look outside of your box of regulations and rules and see the reality of this situation. Put yourselves in our shoes, living in a remote region with no help within a two hour journey over a mountain pass with a sick or injured animal who needs immediate help. Honestly, what would your choice be? If you truly cared about the well being of animals, you would know the obvious answer. Sincerely, Karen Brodie Do not be afraid of (the College of Veterinarians of British Columbia). They are but one isolated, protected, selfish entity.....we are many, and we have the moral high ground on our side. These bullies CAN be faced down, they CAN be defeated. Yell, scream, shout out your rage against this moral wrong that is being laid upon a valued member of your community. Write letters, protest, join together with your fellows. You will only lose when you quit trying. I understand that some donation cans have appeared in town to support this cause.......this is good, probably some funds are
going to be required. ... to the CVBC: Why do you feel this burning need to attack Ms Hunt, who has faithfully served the pets and people here on the West Coast, affordably and with great dedication, for years. She’s wonderful, a true healer, and we all love her. Mike Dauphinee via Facebook
Training in PA, Tofino to help as fishing licences go online Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s commercial licensing services have moved to the Internet with the new National Online Licensing System, which allows fishermen to go online to renew their licences, pay fees and print their licence documents. Fishermen will now have 24/7 access to information concerning licensing information and payment status, helping individual operators and businesses to better plan, prepare and manage their fishing activities. In order to assist with the transition to the new system, DFO will be holding information/training sessions in a number of communities. DFO licensing staff will be on-site to answer questions and to guide users through the process of setting up an account, applying for and printing out fishing licences and associated documents, and making payments. Sessions will take place in: Campbell River, Dec. 9, 10; Port
Alberni, Dec. 11, 12; Tofino, Dec. 17; Nanaimo, Dec. 18; Sidney, Dec. 19; Vancouver, Dec. 17-20. As attendance at these sessions is limited, please RSVP to Michelle Li at michelle.li@dfo-mpo.gc.ca or 604-666-2074 if you are interested in attending. All attendees should bring: DFO passcode (if you are a licence holder, vessel owner or signing authority for an organization); A valid email address; If you already have a GC Key User ID, please ensure that you bring the GC Key; User ID and password; A laptop, if you have one. Melanie McNabb, Fisheries & Oceans Canada
Thanks from Tofino Arts Council re: acrylic workshop Dear Editor, The Tofino Arts Council held a very successful acrylic painting workshop with Alison Watt from Protection Island recently. You can see some of the work which was created on the Arts Council Facebook page. We couldn’t put on activities like this without strong local support. We want to thank the District of Tofino and Coastal Community Credit Union for providing funding; Marika Swan and Norma Dryden at Inkwis Gallery for the space; the Legion for the tables and Laurie at Tofino Motel for looking after our out of town participants so well.
We hope to bring more learning opportunities like this to Tofino in 2014. Yours truly, Maureen Fraser, President Tofino Arts Council
Church thanks all who supported bazaar, names winners All of us at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Tofino, would like to express our sincere thanks to everyone who supported our Christmas Bazaar and helped to make it such a big success. To all who so generously baked, cooked, donated auction and raffle items, and who worked on the day of the bazaar, we are truly grateful. Because of your generosity. we will be able to continue helping those in need, not only at Christmas with food hampers, but throughout the year with food vouchers. God bless you with the peace and joy of this Christmas Season. Raffle winners were Quilt Stephan Zilliken; Sterling Silver Jewelry -Rebecca Reynolds; Pat Amos Prints - Martine Desbois; Money Tree - Cecilia Williams; Gingerbread Village - Colby Hale; Turkey Dinner - Pauline Sadler; TV - Kimberly Williams; Adult Door Prize - Anne Wintersgille; Child’s Door Prize - Estrella McLellan. Sr. Anita Tavera Tofino
COMMENT
Fingering the snoops: So much for privacy these days Can I tell you about my career as a photojournalist? Won’t take long because it didn’t last long – about 11 seconds, as I recall. I had the equipment – a nice 35 millimetre Pentax. I had the location – a mountain village in rural Spain. I had a customer – the Globe and Mail was buying travel pieces from me. I even had the occasion. Generalissimo Francisco Franco had just croaked and I had a chance to record what the passing of the long-time dictator meant to at least some of his countrymen. I decided a photograph of one of the townspeople -- a barefoot peasant in a battered straw hat who was astride a burro shambling down a rocky path toward me – would make a compelling illustration for my story.
Arthur Black Basic Black I raised my camera; the peasant raised his right forefinger and wagged it disapprovingly. And I caved. I baled. I chickened out. I lowered my camera and grinned apologetically. Clearly I wasn’t tough enough to be a photojournalist. Back then, attitudes towards photos taken without permission were a good deal crisper than they are today. In 2013 we all have our pictures taken by complete strangers dozens of times daily. Surveillance cameras snap our profiles in bank lineups, cor-
ner stores, at gas pumps – even at stoplights. It is a completely unwarranted and unsanctioned intrusion of our privacy but it happens so often we don’t even think about it. My computer guru was helping me retrieve some files on my laptop and I happened to mention that tiny Cyclopean eye that sits front and centre on most laptop screens – the camera lens. He chuckled and said “I can’t tell you how many clients I deal with who’ve put duct tape over that lens.” Meaning what? That some people think their own computers are spying on them? What would be the point? What would a spy see through that lens? In my case he’d see a bald guy
with a red face saying bad words about the laptop that just ate his email. Hard to see how that would enhance the CSIS database of terrorist activity in Canada. I’m saying CSIS but choose your own initials? CSA, FBI, CIA, RCMP – who knows who’s snooping out there? Recently I attended an anti-oil tanker rally in a local park. I was having a hard time hearing the Raging Grannies because of a high-pitched droning sound from overhead. I looked up and saw...a drone, I guess. A weird gizmo about the size of a crow with four stiff wings that swept back and forth about twenty feet above the crowd. It wasn’t camouflaged; as a matter of fact it looked sort of like a
model airplane – except every few seconds it would stop and hover. The better to take photographs, I have to conclude. So who was manning the controls on that drone – the protest organizers? Some municipal crowd control bureaucrat? A constable from the local RCMP unit? All I know is, nobody identified themselves. And nobody asked my permission. Well I know something else. The next time I pass a surveillance camera – at the bank, at the gas pump, wherever -- I plan to emulate that Spanish peasant who held up his forefinger to me years ago. But I’ll be using a different finger.
Page 6 | The Westerly News
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Redefine adaptable
Island trails get ICET boost Special to Westerly News COURTENAY - Vancouver Island’s beautiful trail systems are going to benefit from an integrated enhancement, signage and marketing strategy thanks to a $60,000 investment to complete stage one of a three-stage development and marketing plan initiated by Tourism Vancouver Island. “Vancouver Island is known for its abundant natural beauty and ease of access to the outdoors. It just makes sense to support an initiative that will take our amazing trail systems to the next level and market them internationally,” said ICET Chair Phil Kent. “The related economic benefits from a project like this will undoubtedly have a positive impact on Vancouver Island communities.” The Vancouver Island Trails
Strategy Project is being supported by the Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET) contribution of $30,000 through their Economic Development Readiness Program. A matching $30,000 investment is coming from municipalities and stakeholders. The project’s components including the goal of creating a uniform trail difficulty rating system akin to that which is used by North American ski areas - could be exportable to other jurisdictions around B.C. and across Canada. “The Vancouver Island Trails Strategy Project is exactly the kind of integrated approach we need to properly showcase our beautiful trail systems,” said Minister of State for Tourism and Small Business Naomi Yamamoto. “Building a comprehensive inventory of our hiking trails and giving
them standardized ratings enhances the tourist experience, and gives them more reasons to explore the Island.” Phase one of the Vancouver Island Trails Strategy Project will include working collaboratively with communities to research trails and develop an inventory to determine the top 100 hiking trails with the highest potential for marketability, assess their stage of development, determine their best use and identify any improvements needed. Phase two of the project would expand the trail inventory and develop strategies for consistent mapping, trail rating, signage and interpretation, best practices, consistent messaging and effective marketing. Phase three puts the strategies into action by creating consistent signage and inter-
pretive information, and easyto-use maps available both on a dedicated website and in print at tourism offices, visitor information centers and anywhere community and tourist information is provided. “Vancouver Island is already rated the top Island destination in Canada and in the continental US, and providing an integrated trails resource will definitely add to our appeal as a destination,” said Tourism Vancouver Island President and CEO Dave Petryk. “Developing a comprehensive trails strategy will contribute to the economic and social potential of our communities and I am excited to see it get underway.” The Island Coastal Economic Trust is a $50 million endowment established in 2006 by the BC government.
Someone many years ago tied a rope around this tree and left it. The tree just grew around it. The tree appeared healthy recently., although bark had grown around it at Conference Creek Watershed Restoration Project, funded by MoT, HCTF, and RFCPP. This was around 10km past the Junction, near the boat launch on the highway to Port Alberni. Photo, courtesy Central Westcoast Forest Society.
LOST, continued from Page 1 her Goomba. “It was great to see the community pull together and take care of each other – that’s why I appreciate living out here,” he said, recalling November’s successful West Coast fundraiser to help Filipino typhoon victims. Jeff Mikus did a circuit from Grice Bay to Rainbow Beach, Kennedy Lake and back, calling for Goomba, enlisting his dogs to help in the search. Mikus said he knew of an elderly dog with hearing and vision problems that was lost in the woods but came back to a tent
set up with his blankets and a dog bed. Greenland put the idea to work to help Goomba get oriented. “There’s not a place as great as the West Coast for people helping out, no matter what,” he said. “We’ve got some pretty incredible people out here who are willing to help anytime.” Lee-Ann Unger of CARE said the response to Goomba’s plight was remarkable. “The community outpouring was so heartwarming … People offered not only their suggestions, but time, energy and support,” she
said. “When Goomba and Erika most needed it, people stepped forward,” she said. Kim Niezgoda of Ucluelet is a CARE volunteer who scoured the roadside on her way to work, hoping to catch sight of Goomba. She’s trained in pet first aid and she travels with supplies in her car in case she encounters a lost or hurt pet. “Our community has so many animal lovers, you see the empathy of people understanding a tough situation like that. It reflects the
community and the wonderful people we have here. It’s so nice to see positive stories like this, with a happy ending,” Niezgoda said. James Rodgers was joined by his dog Steggie on an outing to find Goomba. “I posted a map to the Trading Post showing where I had gone in hopes of helping to coordinate the search (so people knew what areas have been visited),” he said. Rodgers said Goomba’s experience may help in future lost-dog cases. “(People) may even remember
rick Christmas Trees t a p k r i K Best Quality • Best Selection Great Family Fun!
Get an MRI and find out what’s wrong NOW. We use a powerful 1.5T GE MR System, comparable to or exceeding hospital grade MRI scanners.
& Saws s Wagon ed Suppli
1211 Ryan Road, Courtenay, BC V9N 3R6
Cut your own
Beautiful Christmas Tree Nov. 30th - Dec. 21st A.V. Airport off Pacific Rim Highway (first farm on right)
Now accepting Physician Referrals
250-334-1023 www.vimri.ca
U-Cut Trees
Free Hotdo gs on the Weeke nds
Visit Santa Dec 14 & 15 1-3pm Best Crop Ever!
Fresh Cut Trees
All Same Service NEW Location Sizes Canadian Tire Garden Centre Avail able 9:30am - 8:00pm Nov. 30 - Dec 21
specifics like the importance of actions in the first few/24 hours, getting a ground zero home base (tent, etc.) set up and just simply putting the hours in,” he said. “Animals are an important and integral part of our families, communities and overall welfare. A few cold hours of wandering and whistling is the very least I can do when someone is in need,” Rodgers said. +++ Three days after she disappeared, finally Goomba made her way to the base camp Greenland and friends had set up on Sunday. She was hungry and had some ice in her fur, but she was fine, said Erika Greenland. “I think that’s the most elated I ever felt,” she said. “There was such a mixture of relief and happiness. I never expected I would lose her and find her too – it’s the best thing that could ever happen,” she said, adding she was grateful for the friends and total strangers that banded together to help Goomba find her way home. +++ The irrepressible Goomba is already back to her adorable tricks and happy to be home, Greenland said. “She’s pretty funny – she’ll do things just to get a smile out of you. She’s still a baby, very loving – she puts her paws on your leg, rests her head on your leg. I taught her how to high-five and she’ll go up to people and high-five,” Greenland said. editor@westerlynews.ca
The Westerly News | Page 7
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
EDUCATION
Kids have whale of a time on Echachist Island On a crisp, sunny, afternoon in early December, the Grade 6 Oceanography class from Wickaninnish Community School boarded the Tofino Water Taxi and headed off for Echachist Island. I accompanied the students along with their KIMBERLY teacher JOHNSTON/ (Brady Clarke), LOCAL and Gisele VOICE Martin. We were off to Echachist to see relics of the Nuuchah-nulth whale hunt in Clayoquot Sound – real whale bones! We transferred from the main vessel to the skiff, which brought us ashore on Echachist. We could tell that the kids were excited to get going on the whale-bone scavenger hunt but we had to lay the ground rules first. “This place is a sacred place,” explained Gisele. “Echachist was a seasonal village site for our people. It was used, primarily, as a place to bring the whales ashore, after they were hunted.” Gisele went on to explain that we were not only standing on sand and soil – we were actually standing on whale bones! The students went silent for a while considering the ground on which they stood. Gisele asked us not to take anything from the island. This seemed easy enough until we stumbled upon moon snail shells and abalone shells –
Gisele Martin teaches Wickaninnish Community School sixth graders about whales of the Pacific and the traditions of Echachist Island.
they were hard to resist but the kids left them in place, showing their respect for Gisele and for Echachist. We walked around Echachist holding vertebrae in our hands. A couple of kids were going to sit down on a rock before Gisele told them that it was actually a whale skull half covered in grass. She was right – this island is steeped in whale history. We hiked
to the lookout point where she told us stories of the whale hunt and of the spiritual connection between whales and humans. The relationship between the Humpbacks and the Nuu-chahnulth was one of survival but it was also one of great reverence. One of the students exclaimed to Brady Clarke, “We could just read all of this in a class or we could come out here and really
Chesterman to get $100K changeroom ANDREW BAILEY
Westerly News Added relief is on its way to Tofino’s beach goers. The district has awarded Tofino based Boulton Brothers Construction a contract to build a new $100,000 washroom and change room facility at South Chesterman Beach. Installing a new bathroom facility at South ChesterOSBORNE man has been a longdiscussed development and Mayor Josie Osborne thanked district staff for their work to bring it to fruition. Vic Van Isle Group, whose head office is based in Kelowna, was the only other company to bid on the contract but made the dis-
trict’s decision easy by quoting our needs,” Osborne said. a $221,020 price tag, over double Boulton Brothers’ quoted cost of reporter@westerlynews.ca $92,656. The project will be paid for through 2014 Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI) funding coastrealty.com and will have no Tofino & Ucluelet direct impact on 250-726-8113 taxation, accordsold@telus.net Dave Christensen ing to a staff report council reviewed during Providing you a Nov. 26 regular with the meeting. business solution Along with the you need significantly lower cost, when you council seemed need them. content with Boulton Brothers’ designs. “I think they’ve done their best at pulling 1566 Peninsula Rd. Ucluelet together something that meets
726-7445
see everything ourselves. I’d way rather do this!” We hiked back to the beach where Tofino Water Taxi picked us up and brought us back to Tofino.
It was only a two-hour field trip but it felt like we had gone back 100 years in time! The Echachist field trip was delivered as part of the Raincoast Education Society’s “Whales of the Pacific” program offered to elementary and high schools on the west coast of Vancouver Island this fall/winter—from Zeballos in the north to Dididaht in the south, and everything in between. The program, supported by the Uu-a-thluk (NTC Fisheries), incorporates a marine ecology component, a cultural component, and a sustainability component. Through the program students gain and understanding of common whale species of the North Pacific, including their roles in local ecosystems, their cultural significance, and how to be active stewards of these species by reducing marine pollutants and protecting key habitat. Thank you to everyone who made the Echachist field trip possible: Gisele Martin, Brady Clarke, Wickaninnish Community School, Uu-a-thluk & Tofino Water Taxi. Kimberly Johnston is Education Coordinator for the Raincoast Education Society
DISTRICT OF TOFINO rd
Box 9, 121 3 Street Tofino BC V0R 2Z0
Notice of Easement over Highway Pursuant to section 26 of the Community Charter, the District of Tofino gives notice that it intends to grant an easement over part of the highway known as Cypre Crescent, as shown on the sketch below, for the purpose of supporting a portion of the proposed parking lot on the property legally described as PID: 011-705-531, Lot 1, District Lot 115, Clayoquot District, Plan 47039. As consideration for the grant of this easement over a portion of Cypre Crescent, the owners of Lot 1 will grant to the District a statutory right of way over that part of Lot 1 shown on the sketch below, for public parking.
Aaron Rodgers Manager of Community Sustainability (T) 250.725.3229 ext 22 (F) 250.725.3775 (E) arodgers@tofino.ca
Page 8 | The Westerly News
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
THE VOLUNTEER COAST
Food Bank seeks hamper help to brighten holidays for local families ANDREW BAILEY
Westerly News The Food Bank on the Edge Society is calling on West Coasters to spread the love and make the holidays happy for everyone by donating early and often to this year’s Christmas Hamper program. “It’s helping people in our region to have a great holiday season,” said Ucluelet councillor and society chair Sally Mole. “It’s a feel good thing and it helps other people feel good too.” The hampers will be dished out on Dec. 21 and it’s up to the community to ensure these hampers are bursting with holiday goodness.
“We’re hoping the people who have can give to those who are less fortunate and make their Christmases something special,” said Ucluelet municipal councillor and society board member Geoff Lyons. Volunteers are needed to make sure Dec. 21’s bounty flows smoothly into the hands that need it and locals can look to the tireless work done year-round by Food Bank volunteers as motivation. “Every Tuesday the food bank is just humming with volunteers and they’re so organized and so committed it’s great,” Mole said. “These people are giving their time and energy on a
Staffers at the BC Liquor Store have Share bears for sale to help with hampers.
year round basis so I think its time for all of us to stand up,” added Lyons. “I think this season we all should be able to contribute and feel
good about ourselves that we’ve helped someone less fortunate.” The society hopes to have 80 heaping hampers to dish
out this Christmas though Lyons said “there are certainly more people out there than the ones we’re able to support.” Anyone interested in helping out is encouraged to bring food donations to the food bank’s office—located by Ucluelet’s Sea Plane Base rec hall—on Tuesdays from 1 pm to 3 p.m., or contact the food bank at 250-7266909 to arrange delivery or pick up. Lyons hopes West Coasters who get a taste of the fulfillment helping others brings will allow the generosity churned by the Christmas spirit to live on throughout the year. “We have an incredible
volunteer base in the area but over and above what everyone gives to a specific society or contributes this is just something special for Christmas that is a bit more personal and satisfying to folks,” Lyons said. “We really appreciate everyone’s past contributions, look forward to their current contributions and their future contributions; it’s a great offering.” Locals can also participate in their local BC Liquor Store’s Share a Bear program. For every $11 bear sold another bear will be put into a Christmas Hamper. reporter@westerlynews.ca
towards human voice in hopes of food, Akhurst said. “He’s a pretty cool guy, that’s for sure,” she said.
Below, Walter the sea otter chows down with new vigour after dental surgery. Photos courtesy Vancouver Aquarium.
Surgery gives Walter the sea otter new appetite for life blow outs from aquarium staff. “Walter’s doing fairly well at this point, he’s fully grooming on his own and eating really well and starting to gain some weight,”
said Akhurst, adding that he’s still considered a rehab animal and his future can’t be determined until he gets much better, at which time a discussion will be held with the Department of Fisheries
and Oceans. Akhurst said Walter’s great to have around. “He’s really neat to work with, much different than a lot of animals we have here – he requires more hands-on
care,” she said. His other senses are heightened now that he is blind. Care is taken to talk to him as he is approached so he’s not surprised, and he has learned to move
editor@westerlynews.ca
Download the new Layar app with your Smartphone and then scan this image using Layar to see footage of Walter the Sea Otter’s dental surgery!
Christmas mas ... what a wonderful time of year! For some families it may be difficult to provide their children with gifts to celebrate the season. The Ucluelet sales associates of RE/MAX Mid-Island Realty would once again like to make sure no child goes without a gift. Starting Dec 2 at the Ucluelet CIBC, a Christmas tree adorned with Angels will be waiting for you to stop by. Each Angel will have the age and gender of your child on it. Have fun purchasing a special gift for your Christmas Angel, attach the Angel to your wrapped gift, and return it to the Ucluelet CIBC by Dec. 19. Your gift will be delivered prior to Christmas.
Mid Island Realty
WEST COAST FITNESS CENTRE will be closing for Holidays! Fitness centre Fit t andd motel t l will ill be b closed l d on Dec 24/2013 and Re-open for regular business hours on Jan 2/2014. The facility will be open regular business hours on the 23rd & 2nd 9am - 9pm (Member’s access at 6am).
250-726-7732
Give the gift of health this Christmas!
Pool goggles and tanning lotions. Memberships & punch-passes. GYM,, POOL GYM POOL,, SAUNA & TANNING.
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays Thanks to both communities for another awesome year!
From Jeff and Brenda, Kara, Jay, Kat, Marlowe, Dylan & Staff
The Westerly News | Page 9
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
DAILY DRAWS
UCLUELET CO-OP
EVERY DAY STARTING NOV 7TH, MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE A BALLOT FOR EVERY $25 SPENT AT THE GROCERY STORE AND GAS BAR. Winners will be drawn daily. All entries go into Grand Prize Draw on Dec 24th.
3 1 0 2 r e b m e c De DAILY DRAWS THREE
50 GIFT CARDS.
$
FOUR CHANCES TO WIN!!! Grand Prize Draw Three $500 Gift Cards. Two $1000 Gift Cards.
FIVE CHANCES TO WIN!!! ***You must be a Ucluelet Co-op Member to qualify***
OPEN DAILY 9 to 7
1580 Peninsula Rd. UCLUELET
250-726-4231
Page 10 | The Westerly News
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Over 1,000 animals released after 10-month spa-quarium treatment
ANDREW BAILEY
Westerly News The Ucluelet Aquarium society held its annual release day with big-time fanfare on Dec. 7 as locals and visitors brought buckets, friends, and family to take part in the beloved event “This is the last part of our release project where we really get to involve everyone in the community and that means everyone gets to come and say goodbye to the things that we’ve been keeping for the last 10 months,” said aquarium curator Laura Griffith- Cochrane. “Today represents the whole feeling of the aquarium condensed into one day,” she said. “The mandate behind the aquarium, the whole community involvement, everyone’s really excited; it’s one of the reasons why I love this facility.” The aquatic animals that have delighted aquarium goers for the past 10 months were sent home from Ucluelet’s Whiskey Dock under the supervision of aquarium
RMT CARE
HEALTH
NECK
SPORTS
OSTEOPATHIC
MANUAL
EDUCATION SOFT TISSUE
staff and volunteers. “It’s beautiful out here and it’s going great, everything’s going smoothly all the animals are ready to go and people are lining up to go for it,” said Aquarium aquarist interpreter Andrew McCurdy. Griffith-Cochrane said the event connects locals to their friendly neighbourhood marine life and the eco-system surrounding them. “It’s bringing it all together,” she said. “When you go past a beach you see where that animal lives that whole eco-system becomes important to you and so it makes it relevant I think to each person.” Locals lined up early with buckets in hand ready to receive an aquatic friend to send home from Silva Johansson, a long-time release day volunteer and member of the aquarium society. “People were definitely excited,” Johansson said. “This is something that people look forward to in Ukee. It’s a chance to interact with the staff, the creatures, and each other. It really helps connect people to the environment but as well it helps connect people to the aquarium which is a community effort so it’s a win, win, win, for everybody.” Johansson has been volunteering at the aquarium since its days as a Mini Aquarium and said the release event has always been a big deal. “It’s become a community event so it’s always highly anticipated and I think today was a really
Above: Ania Szymczakowski bids farewell to a sea star as she sends it home. Right: Imogen, Owen, and Matthew Aspinall spend some family time. Bottom right: Michael Nagy and Carla Pinelli take part .
See RELEASE, Page 11
MASSAGE
STRESS RELEASE
THERAPY
2005 Dodge Dakota SLT
SHOULDER B AC K
4 Speed Automatic, 4 Door
P A I N
10,000
$
Brooke Pugh, Registered Massage Therapist
Stock# 135047B
BRENT LANGE
Call, text or email for appointment
250-726-6584
brookermt@gmail.com Covered under most extended healthcare plans
blange@albernichrysler.com
366 CAMPBELL ST. (BOX 381), TOFINO, B.C., V0R 2Z0.
E: art@markhobson.com W: markhobson.com
P: 1 800 668 2208 F: 1 250 725 3120
250-723-5331
www.albernichrysler.com
The Westerly News | Page 11
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Release day at Ucluelet Aquarium, continued from Page 10 good turnout and people were happy about it,” she said. “At the core of what the Ucluelet Aquarium is that it’s a community effort; people work here, live her, play here, and the aquarium has become such a big part of the community.” The event drew in a diverse crowd of delighted participants from throughout the region. Port Alberni local Jana DeVito and her daughter Marika Perry were visiting family in Ucluelet and jumped at the chance to participate in the unique opportunity. Ucluelet local Shannon Szymczakowski brought son Kacper and daughter Ania to the event to say good-bye to the animals they spent the last 10 months befriending. “They get to enjoy them all year round and then release them back to nature where they came form,” Shannon said noting the event is a great opportunity to connect her children to their aquatic neighbours. Tofino local Kirsten Soder attended the event with her daughter and said her family never misses the Ucluetian party. “I love it, it’s one of our favourite annual trips down to Ukee,” she said adding that her family spends a ton of time at the aquarium during the year and loves participating in the aquarium’s unique catch and release policy. “It’s a pretty special place in that it’s one of the only places that does this and so it feels pretty cool to be
able to share this with our family.” The thrilled volunteers helped the aquarium society send a boatload of animals home, according to Griffith-Cochrane. “If we count all the tiny clams and everything there was probably over 1,000 animals that went back today,” she said. Elton, the aquarium’s largest specimen this season, had been released
off Tofino the week prior on Dec. 3. Andrew McCurdy explained not all animals could be released off Ucluelet’s Whiskey Dock because it’s not their natural habitat so they might die due to lack of food or unfamiliar predators. “We can’t just release everything off the (Whiskey) dock because it’s not where they live, it’s not where we collected them from,” he said. “We’re very careful about putting things back as close as we can to where we got them from.” The aquarium will welcome a new slew of temporary residents when it re-opens during the Pacific Rim Whale Festival’s kickoff in May. reporter@ westerlynews.ca
Top far right, Jana DeVito (in blue) and daughter Marika Perry and family traveled to Ucluelet from Port Alberni to spend time with family and take part in the Ucluelet Aquarium’s annual release event. Mid-far right, Koen LeFevre, left, gets help from Aidan Duffy to release a sea star back to the wild. Westerly News photos by Andrew Bailey.
Holiday Specials BAKERY DELI CATERING HOLIDAY BAKING
Download the new Layar app with your Smartphone and then scan this image using Layar to see footage of the annual release!
Traditional holiday favorites (gluten free options). Order forms in store.
CATERING From appetizers to mains, pick-up and full service.
TAKE-OUT LUNCH SPECIALS Soups, salads & now serving HOT sandwiches.
313 Forbes Rd. Ucluelet Tel: 250-522-1217 Winter Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-5pm
CAT Clothing
Under Armour BackPacks
20 - 30 %
off
3509-3rd AVENUE s
%
off
/0%. -ON &RI AM PM 3AT AM PM
30
%
off
Boots
20
%
off
www.lbwoodchoppers.com sales@lbwoodchoppers.com
Page 12 | The Westerly News
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
EAT/PLAY/LIVE
Christmas jam: Schools in Ukee, Tofino seek local players for concert JACKIE CARMICHAEL
Westerly News If you always wanted to be in the school band, here’s your chance. Elementary students in both Tofino and Ucluelet are planning first-ever community Christmas jams, and they’re looking for some
local talent to help out. “We are looking for local musicians to come and join Ucluelet Elementary School (Friday Dec. 20th at 1pm) and Wickaninnish Community School (Thurs. Dec. 19th at 1pm) Christmas sing-along,” said Beth Harling, the West
Coast’s music teacher. “The kids are super excited about having people come from the community and just play along,” Harling said. “They’ve been playing for years, this gives them a chance to see what other people do.” Musicians can bring their instru-
ments (guitar, bass, violin, drum, tambourine, kazoo, etc.) and join the school’s guitar players. “Everyone is welcome to come and play or sing. The chords and lyrics of the music will be displayed for everyone to follow,” she said.
Musicians need to RSVP to Beth Harling at bharling@sd70.bc.ca so they can have enough chairs for musicians. If you would like a list of the songs prior to the show, just let Harling know. Hot cider and gingerbread will be sold to raise money for the music program.
Dogs, continued from Page 1 -plies and training.
The photo shoot was no Silent Night. Hark, the herald angels barked. “The very SCATT amd Samta are seeking a home to adopt those two first dog adorable kitties. Right, Rusty, Jon Kasten’s Ducktolling that came Retriever pup. Far right, Carla Anderson’s Junior, Hemmy & in was a barker, and Odie - 2 pitties & Chihuahua. he got all the other dogs barking,” she said, adding down, all was pretty calm “We only that once things calmed and bright. had one dog that bolted – he wouldn’t have anything to do with Santa,” she said. For 43 animal pictures, that’s pretty good. McEwen’s secrets to doing a holiday photo session with pets? “Squeaky toys are good – somebody beside me was Gillies Bay Vancouver Mainland squeaking the toy so the dog KD Air is located in the South Terminal at Island would look at me,” she said. Vancouver International Airport (YVR). We fly Port Also helpful? Words like Vancouver daily scheduled flights to Tofino, Qualicum Beach, Alberni Tofino “treat” and “cookie.” and Texada Island and provide daily service from Qualicum Santa Claus came to town Vancouver to Port Alberni as well. Our safety record is Beach from the province’s capital. impeccable, with over 64,000 flights logged so far. Jimmy Wing was one of six We look forward to welcoming you on board! Victoria volunteers with Hug-a-Bull Book your weekend getaway today with our fantastic Buy One Get in Victoria who drove up One Half Off deal. Based on two fares on Fri and Sun flights only. to help with the event. He became Santa for the day, WE’RE CONTINUING TO OFFER YEAR ROUND FLIGHTS TO TOFINO!
Marilyn McEwen of Aperture Overtures Photography volunteered her time for the event. “I think any animal rescue society is worthwhile and valuable to contribute to,” she said. Her Anchors Inn has guest cabins, and all pet fees collected go to the SPCA. “We’re definitely animal lovers,” she said. On Dachsund, on Labrador, on Husky and Chihuahua!
Call us today 1-800-665-4244
kdair.com
Above us only sky!
Black Rock Oceanfront Resort 596 Marine Drive, Ucluelet
250-726-4800 www.blackrockresort.com
McEwen said. For some pooches, getting up on furniture was too big a taboo, and Santa met them more than halfway. “He was amazing, he even got down on the floor with some of the dogs that weren’t too keen on being up on an ottoman,” she said. The Victoria pet pictures with Santa fundraiser raised almost as much as the West Coast one, McEwen said.
Carla Anderson of Ocean Pet Supplies is the Vancouver Island director for Huga-Bull. She spearheaded the canine little Christmas, and Black Rock donated the space. “In the 12 years I’ve lived here, I’ve never seen any-
See Santa, Page 13
DECEMBER DAILY FEATURES Ν FLOAT LOUNGE Only
15 - includes a 12 oz glass
$
of feature Stanley Park Beer
Features are available in Float Lounge from 3pm to 9pm daily
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
1/4 Roast Chicken
Sushi Feature
Baha Fish Tacos (3)
Thai Green Chicken Curry
TradiƟonal Baked Lasagna
Black Rock Beef Dip
Coconut Jasmine Rice
Garlic Bread
Braised Chicken Tacos (3) Corn TorƟllas, Shredded Cheese , Pico De Gallo Guacamole, Hot Sauce
Whipped Potatoes, Creamed Corn Roasted Chicken Gravy
Corn TorƟllas, Guacamole, Pico De Gallo, Cabbage
Gorgonzola BuƩer, Fried Onions Dip and Fries
The Westerly News | Page 13
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Santa visits - and bark, boy do the herald angels bark, continued from Page 12. (More to come in Westerly News Holiday Edition, Dec. 18!) -thing like this done, and I know how m many great pet owners there are in Tofino and Ucluelet who would love to be able to do something like this,” Anderson said. One family even brought in a chicken, calling their “best hen.” “The best part was seeing how much fun everyone had. I love our Above, Zoe Jordan and community and am so family -- including her glad that I could offer a Best Hen. Left, Alana fun event that also helps Janisse and family with a great rescue,” Anderson Border Collie crosses Piper said, thanking volunteers & Max. All photos, Marilyn and participants for the McEwen, Aperture event’s success. Overtures Photography.
Above, Canella, Kali Reite’s Mini Sharpei. Below, Christie & Matt’s pitties, Willow, Homer & Annabelle. Left, Ronnie Lamoureux’s Husky, Sitka.
DISTRICT OF TOFINO rd
Box 9, 121 3 Street Tofino BC V0R 2Z0
Above, Alyssa Conlin’s Anubis the Chihuahua. Below, Amanda McRae’s Retriever cross Sol gets a “Good pup!” from Santa. All pictures, Marilyn McEwen.
The District of Tofino Mayor, Council, and Staff extend our best wishes to you over the holiday season, and wish everyone a happy and prosperous New Year. The District of Tofino Municipal Office will be closed th for the holiday season from noon on December 20 th to January 5 , and will re-open on January 6th, 2014 at 9:00 AM. To contact the Public Works Department please call 250-725-4212 For your convenience, an outdoor mail slot is located beside the front door of the Municipal Office on Third Street for bill payments and letters. COUNCIL AND STAFF WISH EVERYONE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!
March 15 - 23 2014
We are in full swing planning the 28th annual festival! Be an early festival sponsor to enjoy the full benefits your contribution will afford you! Away for March but still want to participate? There are volunteer opportunities already. www.pacificrimwhalefestival.com 250-726-5164 for more information
JOIN THE FUN!
Page 14 | The Westerly News
WEEKLY CROSSWORD
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
EAT / PLAY / LIVE: EVENTS
What’s On! Wed., Dec. 11, Winter’s Fire: seasonal arts and crafts show opening Inkwis, Tofino. Food, art. 5-8 p.m. Dec. 12, Clayoquot Sound Theater at 8 p.m. Internationally recognized musician, peace poet, troubadour, rabble-rouser, philosopher and entertainer; David Rovics performs
CLUES DOWN 1. Any wrist bone 2. Baltimore bird 3. Czar’s nation 4. Regulated food 5. Space next to someone 6. Expunction 7. Trauma center 8. Spanish yes 9. Matters 10. Twist out of shape 13. Toward
Breakfast with Santa, Sat. Dec. 14, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Ucluelet Community Centre Sunday, Dec 15th, 10 am – 12pm Breakfast with Santa. Tofino Community Hall. Admission by donation with
SUDOKU
CLUES ACROSS 14. Renders able for a task 1. Binder 15. An extended social group 5. Move up and down 20. Article 11. Wild sheep of northern Africa 21. GMA anchor’s initials 12. Annoys 22. Streetcar 16. An upward movement 23. Summer month (abbr.) 17. Ducktail 27. Not widely distributed 18. Town in central Minnesota 29. Plays great music 19. Philatelist’s delight 30. Female 1776 descendants 24. Carrier’s invention 31. Speed gauge ratio 25. Foreign travellers 32. Old English 26. Aurochs 33. After B 27. Batter advanced score 34. Expressing sorrow 28. Show the way 35. More hearty, firmer 29. Steep rugged mass of rock 36. Taxis 30. Valley 37. Single pip card 31. Digital data device 38. 50th state 33. Insert mark 40. A source of worry 34. Breakout 41. Eight sided 38. Dissention from dogma 42. Highest military valor award 39. Kuhil and clown fish (abbr.) 40. Unconsciousness 44. Former Harvard Pres. Derek 43. Czech River 45. Drinking tubes 44. Johann Sebastian 46. Loss of coordination 45. Flows to the Danube at 47. Self-love Belgrade 48. Talus joints 49. World data organization (abbr.) 50. Accumulator 50. Comedian Sahl 51. Rural delivery 51. Porch furniture wood 52. Lady Soul’s initials 53. Potato state 54. Prefix indicating abstraction 54. American Pickers 55. Hawaiian goose 56. Yellow-fever mosquitos 57. Prince William’s mom, Lady 58. Edison’s company 61. Aid organization (abbr.) 59. Axis and offshoot angle 62. Farm state 60. Standard 63. Blame (Scottish) 64. Esoteric THIS WEEKS ANSWER 65. Pronounces
Fri., Dec. 13, Big Beach Theatre movies, UCC, Ucluelet. Fred Claus (2007) (PG) 116 minShowtimes: Dec. 13 at 6pm and Sat., December 14 at 1pm. Fred Claus has lived his entire life in his brother’s very large shadow. Fred tried, but could hardly live up to the example set by the younger Nicholas, who was just a perfect, well, saint. True to form, Nicholas (a.k.a. Santa Claus) grew up to be the model of giving, while Fred became the polar opposite: a fast-talking repo man who’s run out of luck and money. Eventually Fred’s bad behaviour
catches up with him in jail. Over Mrs. Claus’ objections, Nicholas agrees to help his brother on one condition. The trouble is that Fred isn’t exactly elf material and cut out for creating toys and spreading good cheer. Fred could jeopardize the jolliest holiday of the year and ruin Christmas. Christmas Vacation (1989) (PG) 97 min. Showtimes: Dec. 13 at 8pm It’s Christmas time and the Griswolds are preparing for a family seasonal celebration, but things never run smoothly for Clark, his wife and two kids. Clark’s continual bad luck is worsened by obnoxious family guests, but he manages to keep going knowing that his Christmas bonus is due..
Mon. Dec. 16, Monday Night Movies, Tofino, Clayoquot Community Theatre, Rush (Action Drama, US, 2013, 123 min, Rated 14A) Director: Ron Howard. Set against the sexy, glamorous golden age of Formula One racing in the 1970s. Based on true story of rivalry between English playboy James Hunt and Austrian opponent Niki Lauda. The story follows their distinctly different personal styles and the astonishing 1976 season in which both drivers were willing to risk everything to become world champion in a sport where if you make a mistake, you die. Draw Prizes! Wed., Dec. 18, Harbour Lights Sail Pass, 7 p.m. at Main Street Dock/Ucluelet Aquarium
Christmas Lunch for West Coast Community Resources Society, Dec. 19 at UCC gym from12-2. 8th annual event, ALL are welcome.
Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
Family Games Night at Sunday, Dec. 15 at 7-9 p.m. at UCC. Hosted Junior Youth Empowerment Program. All welcome. 250-266-0237
A Christmas Carol Sing-along will be held Wednesday December 18, 2013 @ 3 PM at St. Columba Church in Tofino.
Fun By The Numbers
Here’s How It Works:
the proceeds going to the Kids Access Fund.
THIS WEEKS SUDOKU ANSWER
Christmas Jam, Wickaninnish Community School, Thurs. Dec. 19th at 1pm and Ucluelet Elementary School, Friday Dec. 20th at 1pm) .Christmas sing-along. Community Musicians can bring their instruments and join school’s guitar players. Chords and lyrics will be displayed. Musicians RSVP to Beth Harling at bharling@sd70.bc.ca to reserve chair. Hot cider and gingerbread to raise money for the music program. Dec. 18 the Westerly News will publish its holiday edition. Last chance for 2013 to get in What’s On, email office@westerlynews.ca
The Westerly News | Page 15
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Man sentenced for break-in; complainant said he crawled into her bed ANDREW BAILEY
Westerly News James Kelly McBride, 54, was sentenced to 90 days in prison for breaking into and entering a home. In September 2012, McBride was on bail conditions stemming from an assault charge he was later acquitted of. His bail conditions included abstaining from alcohol and having no contact with the complainant. He breached both of these conditions when he was found intoxicated in the complainant’s home. The West Coast resident was living on the same campsite as the complainant at the time of
the offence and the complainant said she was in bed around 2 a.m. when McBride and another person entered her trailer, The other person left but McBride got into the complainant’s bed, according to Crown prosecutor Christina Proteau. Upon discovering McBride lying next to her the complainant immediately called for help, Proteau said adding McBride smelled of alcohol at the time of the incident. A witness who was responding to the complainant’s calls for help said he saw McBride walking away from the trailer. There was some discussion around mobile homes differing
from traditional houses in relation to break and enter charges but the Honourable Judge T. Gouge batted down any notions of a difference. “I would like to make it clear that in my view there is no distinction to be drawn in relation to a break and enter between the most humble and the most expensive dwelling,” Gouge said. “A person who lives in a tent is entitled to as much protection of the law as a person who lives in a mansion.” McBride’s defence counsel Myron Plett noted that when McBride entered the complainant’s bed she had initially thought he was her boyfriend. “That says to me that it wasn’t a violent entry,” Plett said.
Plett also noted his client was “extremely intoxicated” at the time of the offence and had attended the RCMP detachment the following day to admit his breach. “I do not regard drunkenness as an excuse particularly when Mr. McBride was under bail conditions not to drink,” Gouge said upon ruling. The Crown had sought a period of 6-12 months in prison but Judge Gouge said 3 months was sufficient given McBride’s lack of violent intent and limited criminal record. Plett asked Gouge to consider a suspended sentence that would include a curfew. “Mr. McBride isn’t so much a vil-
lain as somebody who exercised extremely poor judgment starting with having had way too much to drink and being party to an encounter with (the complainant) that was unwanted undesired and at the end of the day not legal,” Plett said. Gouge turned down Plett’s request, stating a period of incarceration was necessary, but did accept Plett’s follow-up request that McBride serve his sentence intermittently. McBride will be placed in cells every weekend from Friday at 5 p.m. to Sunday at 3 p.m. reporter@westerlynews.ca
Acquitted of impaired vessel operation, man fined for unsafe operation ANDREW BAILEY
Westerly News Denis Beland was fined $2,000 and prohibited from operating a motor vessel for one-year after pleading guilty to operating a vessel in an unsafe manner. Beland faced a charge of operating a vessel while impaired and a charge of failure to provide a breath sample to a peace officer— he pled not guilty to both—but Crown prosecutor Christina Proteau attempted to amend the latter charge on the morning of trial. She asked that the charge be amended to accuse Beland of refusing to provide a sample to a certified technician at the RCMP detachment rather than refusing to provide a breath sample to a
peace officer, a different section of the criminal code. Beland’s defence counsel Albert King opposed the amendment, stating his client was ready to proceed to trial with the original two charges. Proteau said that crown was entitled to amend information at any point up to the trial and the amendment would not result in a misleading of the accused or prejudice against him. “The words of the accused and gestures of the accused in terms of the refusal are the same; the facts of the case do not change,” she said. “There’s no unfair prejudice here in terms of how the case is going to unfold.” The Honourable Judge T. Gouge said refusing a peace officer’s
DISTRICT OF TOFINO rd
Box 9, 121 3 Street Tofino BC V0R 2Z0
NOTICE OF DISPOSITION OF LAND & INTENTION TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE Pursuant to sections 24 and 26 of the Community Charter, notice is hereby given that the District of Tofino intends to renew a lease agreement with the Tofino Salmon Enhancement Society for a term of five (5) years, commencing on January 1, 2014 for a portion of the lands legally described as District Lot 132, Clayoquot District, and known as Sharp Road, Ginnard Creek Pumphouse Site. The land will be used for the purpose of establishing and maintaining a fish hatchery and rearing facility. The District will receive $1.00 annually over the five (5) year term of the lease agreement and the extent of the assistance is estimated to be $6,000 per year. For more information, please contact:
Nyla Attiana Director of Finance (T) 250.725.3229 ext 24 (F) 250.725.3775 (E) nattiana@tofino.ca
demand is noticeably different than refusing a certified technician’s demand at the RCMP detachment. King said he would not object if the amendment was to simply
correct incorrect information but argued in this case the Crown was submitting a whole new charge against his client. “This is not an amendment it’s a new charge completely,” he said.
“(Beland) has a complete defence to the charge as laid; it’s truly See ACQUITTED, Page 16
by
Page 16 | The Westerly News
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Watchdog: Area woodlots on Santa’s nice list
Acquitted, continued from Page 15 not an amendment in form or in substance it’s a new charge and I oppose it; it’s not fair to him at this stage.” The court stood down and during the break Proteau and King hashed out an agreement and submitted a joint submission to the Honourable Judge Gouge when court re-commenced. King said his client maintained his not-guilty pleas to the original two charges but was willing to plead guilty to operating a vessel in an unsafe manner contrary to the Vessel Operation Restric-
tion Regulations under the Canada Shipping Act. “I can tell the court that my client acknowledges that he did have some alcohol in his system (and) the officers did have to, sort of, track him down as he came to the dock so there are facts that support this guilty plea,” King said. Beland was acquitted of operating a vessel while impaired but fined $2,000 for operating a vessel in an unsafe manner and he is prohibited from operating a motor vessel for one year.
JACKIE CARMICHAEL
Westerly News Forestry practices on the West Coast got the nod in a new report from an independent watchdog. A woodlot near Ucluelet and three in Port Alberni were among 10 South Island woodlots randomly selected for audit by the B.C. Forest Practices Board, said director of audits Chris Mosher. “We look at the woodlot plan, we focus on the harvesting they’ve done … We look to see if they’ve had any environmental damage around streams or they’re protecting them as they’re supposed to … and they’re reforesting as they’re supposed to,”
Mosher said. West Coast woodlots making the grade were Ucluelet Woodlot 1903, operated by the Toquaht First Nation; Woodlot 11, near Port Alberni, managed by Acadia Acres Farm; Woodlot 1479 near Port Alberni and Parksville, operated by Island Roots Forestry Service Ltd. and High Lead Forest Management Ltd., and Woodlot 1902, near Port Alberni, operated by the Hupacasath First Nation. At issue, compliance with B.C.’s forestry legislation. “These woodlots are managed by a variety of different types of licence holders, including a family, small forest companies, First Nations and
Vancouver Island University,” said Al Gorley, board chair. “All of them demonstrated their commitment to sound forest management.” The audit examined practices of South Island woodlots harvesting at least 5,000 cubic metres on Crown lands from February 2011 to the present. The process is by no means a rubber stamp. About 20% of woodlots audited have issues of some sort. In 2011, an audit of woodlots near Fort St. James found three out of six examined had issues, Mosher said. editor@westerlynews.ca
TOFINO, continued from Page 1 attracting younger people to local office. “She was very enthusiastic and agreed to participate right away
which was great,” Morrison said of Osborne. “It’s a topic that she’s very interested in so she’ll have a lot to contribute I’m sure.” Osborne’s fellow next generation panelists will include Smithers Mayor Taylor Bachrach, Huu-ay-aht First
Nation Councillor John Jack, and Burns Lake Mayor Luke Strimbold, according to Morrison. Morrison said these panelists will be asked about their motivations for getting involved in local government and how to encourage other young people to follow suit. “I think people are keen to hear how younger leaders are doing and how they’re finding being
MURRAY’S GROCERY IS RENOVATING!
Murrays will be closed from Dec. 13th - 20th inclusive Parcel pick-up and drop off for the Greyhound bus can be made daily from 5-7pm. (with the exception of December 16&17- CLOSED) We are sorry for any inconvenience.
Lawyers Sherry Baxter, Ted Holekamp and Deborah Acheson
Appointments available in Ucluelet.
in local elected office,” Morrison mayor’s seat without previous said. “There’s definitely a trend out experience as a councillor but it’s there talking about how we can been an amazing year for me, and attract younger people into elected by sharing some of my experiences at this panel I hope I office.” can reach older or more Along with encourexperienced mayors and aging younger particicouncillors who are in a pation, Osborne’s panel position to inspire and will discuss what they mentor new folks like have learned during me,” she said. “Plus I their first experience always learn a lot from in office focusing on other ‘young elected the personal, communofficials’ as we call ity and relationship OSBORNE ourselves.” aspects of being an The forum is still elected official. in its early planning “I’m really glad to be stages and Morrison said specific asked to join a panel like this and didn’t hesitate for a minute in say- topics have not yet been nailed ing yes,” Osborne told the Westerly down but speakers will be given a broad spectrum to work with. News by email. “It means a lot “We’re bringing them in to share to me to ‘give back,’ and by partheir experiences and we’re hoping ticipating in a panel like this I’m it will be not some set presentaworking towards one of my personal goals as a municipal official: tion but more of an open discussion,” she said. “I think it’s going to to inspire younger people to get be really interesting.” involved in local government.” Osborne may not be Tofino’s Osborne became Tofino’s mayor sole representation at the forum after running unopposed in a as councillors Dorothy Baert and January 2013 byelection and is excited to discuss her unique foray Cathy Thicke have both expressed an interest in attending. into local politics and the experiences her first year in office has reporter@westerlynews.ca bestowed. “It’s a little bit unusual for a younger person to jump into the
We’ll Put the Pieces Together on your Personal Injury Claim. Everyone knows what their car is worth. Who knows what their injuries are worth? We do, that’s why you need to talk to us before talking to an insurance adjuster. Don’t give a statement to an insurance adjuster before talking to a lawyer, it can be used against you in court. As a leading BC personal injury law firm we represent the injured, making your physical and economic recovery our first priority.
Serving Vancouver Island claimants with Law Offices in Victoria and Courtenay.
FREE Initial Consultation : Tel: 250-338-6747 Toll Free: 1-800-214-4520 We’ll come to you! 512 Fourth Street, Courtenay, BC • www.awslaw.ca
SMALL TOWN SERVICE
In Association with
BIG CITY EXPERTISE
The Westerly News | Page 17
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
UCLUELET RCMP
Police stop impaired driver while attending to 2-vehicle collision ANDREW BAILEY
Westerly News Ucluelet RCMP responded to a two-vehicle collision on Highway 4 near Glover Creek around 4 p.m. on Dec. 8 and nabbed an impaired driver in the process. The air bags of both vehicles were deployed but no major injuries were sustained, though one of the drivers was taken to Tofino General Hospital complaining of pain to their hand, according to Const. James Van Camp, who attended the scene with Const. Marcel Midlane. Alcohol is not believed to have been a factor in the crash but while Van Camp was directing traffic at the crash site the driver of a passing vehicle failed to slow down arousing Van Camp’s suspicion. “I’m trying to get him to slow down and his reflexes just didn’t seem to be on par,” Van Camp said, adding that when he spoke to the driver he detected a strong smell of alcohol. The driver was charged with driving while impaired and issued an immediate 90-day driving prohibition.
Investigator rules out foul play, lauds fire crew’s effort Const. James Van Camp, Ucluelet’s fire investigator has ruled out foul play as the cause for a Nov. 23 residential fire on Imperial Lane. “There’s no question that it was accidental...I have no doubt,” he said. He said a person working inside the residence was cutting metal when an oily surface in the middle of an old tank they were cutting caught fire. “Somehow that oily surface caught fire and up it went,” Van Camp said. He said he was “amazed” to see the Ucluelet fire department attack the blaze and save the structure “The Ucluelet fire department did a fantastic job,” he said. “I’ve been to lots of fires and I’ve investigated a lot of fires now and I watched that fire and thought for sure the fire department was going to lose this one and they didn’t.” He noted that the residence was in a tough spot for the fire crew to bring their truck
www.paciÀcrimchiropractic.com
250-726-2220
MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM PACIFIC RIM CHIROPRACTIC & PACIFIC COAST MASSAGE THERAPY Great stocking stuffers, GIFT CERTIFICATES available for: Registered Massage Therapy (RMT), functional myofascial stretch or rehab sessions, custom orthotics and chiropractic treatment: High quality clinical nutritional supplements by Metagenics and Genestra-Omega 3 ¿sh oils, Vitamin D, Myocalm, Immucore, Gluocosamine complex, orthopedic cervical pillows, custom orthotics, heat-moulded Sole footbed supports, sport/ergonomic braces, cryoderm topical ointment, foam rollers, etc. European-trained and educated Chiropractors offer an alternative to the North American standard. A patient-centered practise that includes: soft tissue work (active release, fascial manipulation), nutritional recommendations, advanced functional rehabilitation for any workplace/sport/motor vehicle injury, vestibular rehabilitation, orthotics/bracing/taping and conservative, ef¿cient joint manipulation and mobilization. The remaining Chiropractic & Massage clinic hours for 2013 are:
Ucluelet till Monday Dec. 23rd 10:00-6:00, To¿no till Tuesday Dec. 24th 10:00-2:00, both then closed till Thursday Jan. 2nd
Dr. Ron Norman
RMT services are available till Friday, December 20th. Check out the clinics on Facebook for health community updates, stretches, exercises and if you “like” us
...we appreciate it! Best of health to you and your family PAID ADVERTORIAL
BSc(Hons), MSc, DC(UK)
into and two other houses sit very close by. “They just did an amazing job as usual... the town of Ucluelet is extremely lucky without a doubt,” Van Camp said. “I’ve never seen a fire crew work as well as Ucluelet’s ... Out of 10 years of policing this is the best fire department I’ve ever seen.” While conducting his fire investigation Van Camp said he was awed by how much of the structure was saved by the fire department’s heroic efforts.
are fine but a thin layer of ice will be present. “You really want to watch for when the temperature gets around freezing even if there’s been a melt all day,” he said. “Check what the temperature is before you go out, if it’s close to 0 (degrees) there’s going to be ice or a combination of ice and water on the roads.” He urges drives to equip their vehicles with proper winter tires.
Drive responsibly, watch falling temps, icy roads
One bad apple bruises otherwise perfect score on Junction check-stop
Evidence of last week’s snowfall is still on the roads and Ucluelet RCMP are reminding drivers to practice caution and be equipped with proper tires for the conditions. Const. James Van Camp said the most troublesome time for drivers usually occurs in early evening especially if the day has been humid. He encourages drivers to check the temperature before getting in their vehicles because sometimes it may seem the roads
The Ucluelet and Tofino RCMP detachment’s joined forces to conduct a road-check at the Tofino-Ucluelet junction on Dec. 7 as part of a national impaired driving initiative brought forth by the commissioner of the RCMP, according to Const. Susan Argyle. She said about 30 cars were checked and one impaired driver was issued a 12 hour roadside suspension. reporter@westerlynews.ca
Page 18 | The Westerly News
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Your Community
Or call to place your ad:
MARKETPLACE Book your ad ONLINE:
classiďŹ eds.westerlynews.ca REMEMBRANCES
Experienced SALAL pickers (Long Salal) wanted currently paying $1.50 for 1.5lb bunches. 1-604-483-9263 or 1-604-483-9550 Tbird Evergreens
DOCK WORKERS Hiring for all positions: Fish Graders, Forklift & Crane Operators,Tally Person & Icers. Competitive wages, lots of work & over-time hours. Join the Neptune Ice Team in Ucluelet. Experience an asset but not necessary. Must be dependable, willing to learn & hardworking. Call Crystal @ 250-726-7761 or fax resume: 250-726-2283 GPRC, Fairview Campus, Alberta needs Power Engineering Instructors. No teaching experience, no problem. Please contact Brian Carreau at 780-8356631 and/or visit our website at www.gprc.ab.ca.
COMMUNITY
CRIMINAL RECORD? Canadian Record Suspension (Criminal pardon) seals record. American waiver allows legal entry. Why risk employment, business, travel, licensing, deportation, peace of mind? Free consultation: 1-800-347-2540
Circulation: 250-726-7029
MARKETPLACE
Public Notice Re: Warehouse Lien Act NOTICE is hereby given that to recover charges authorized under the Warehouse Lien Act there will be a public sealed bid auction for the sale of goods at U-Key Storage Ltd, 314 Forbes Road, Ucluelet, BC, on the 6th day of January, 2014 at 11:00 am. The person whose name appears above the goods listed below is liable for outstanding charges. Name: Carmen NG Hayes Items: Household (unknown) Amount due: $350.00 Contents can be viewed at time of sale. Bids will be put into a sealed envelope and any or all bids may not necessarily be accepted.
A Hydraulic Service Mechanic is required by leading Canadian distributor and manufacturer of hydraulic, pneumatic and hose and fitting products. This individual should have a minimum of 3 years of experience in Servicing, repairing, and troubleshooting of hydraulic components and systems. Wainbee offers great training, a competitive salary, profit sharing and benefits. To learn more about us, please visit our website at www.wainbee.com . Please email your rÊsumÊ’s to bcresume@wainbee.com or by fax to 604-278-3490
Inside Sales Representative Campbell River, BC Inside sales representative with good communication,
computer, and attention to detail skills is required by leading Canadian distributor and manufacturer of hydraulic, pneumatic and hose and fitting products. This individual should be capable of handling computer processes, counter sales as well as providing customers with technical and product service and support. The candidate must have hydraulic hose and fitting experience along with some fluid power or general industrial product experience.
Please email your rÊsumÊ’s bcresume@wainbee.com or by fax to 604-278-3490
BUSINESS SERVICES COUNSELING
to
IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, that’s your business. IF YOU WANT TO STOP, we can help. Alcoholics Anonymous, Ucluelet/Tofino 1-800-8833968
FINANCIAL SERVICES DROWNING IN DEBT? Cut debts more than 60% & DEBT FREE in half the time! Avoid Bankruptcy! Free Consultation www.mydebtsolution.com or 1-877-556-3500 BBB Rated A+ IF YOU own a home or real estate, ALPINE CREDITS can lend you money: It’s That Simple. Your Credit/Age/ Income is NOT an issue. 1.800.587.2161
LEGAL SERVICES CRIMINAL RECORD? Don’t let it block employment, travel, education, professional, certification, adoption, property rental opportunities. For peace of mind & a free consultation call 1-800-347-2540.
STEEL BUILDINGS/METAL BUILDINGS UP TO 60% OFF! 30x40, 40x60, 50x80, 60x100, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call: 1-800-457-2206 www.crownsteelbuildings.ca STEEL BUILDING...�THE BIG YEAR END CLEAR OUT!� 20x22 $4,259. 25x24 $4,684. 30x34 $6,895. 35x36 $9190. 40x48 $12,526. 47x70 $17,200 One end wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422. www.pioneersteel.ca
DRY FIREWOOD for sale Fir $250/cord, Alder $250/cord, deal on volume Custom cut & delivered. Nathan (778)421-0039
FOR SALE - MISC HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best Price, Best Quality. All Shapes & Colors Available. Call 1-866-652-6837, www. thecoverguy.com/newspaper
CRIMINAL RECORD? Don’t let your past limit your career plans! Since 1989 Confidential, Fast Affordable - A+ BBB Rating EMPLOYMENT & TRAVEL FREEDOM Call for FREE INFO BOOKLET 1-8-NOW-PARDON (1-866-972-7366) www.RemoveYourRecord.com
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES GET FREE VENDING Machines Can Earn $100,000.00 + Per Year. All Cash-Retire in Just 3 Years. Protected Territories. Full Details. Call Now 1-866-6686629. Website WWW.TCVEND.COM.
BUILDING SUPPLIES
FIREWOOD
U-key Storage Ltd.
Wainbee offers great training, a competitive salary, profit sharing and benefits. To learn more about us, please visit our website at www.wainbee.com .
ANNOUNCEMENTS
REAL ESTATE
RECREATIONAL PROPERTY
CANCEL YOUR TIMESHARE. NO RISK program. Stop Mortgage & Maintenance Payments Today. 100% Money Back Guarantee. Free Consultation. Call us Now. We can Help! 1-888-356-5248
RENTALS
APARTMENTS/ CONDOS FOR RENT
VOLUNTEERS
P/T Administrative Assistant Position
Crisis Volunteers needed for West Coast Victim Services Training Provided Contact 250 724-8910 Email: tamara.cocco@rcmp-grc.gc.ca ..
Be at least 19 years of age Attend all training sessions Make a 1 year commitment following training Agree to a RCMP enhanced security clearance Be proficient in spoken and written English Possess common sense, maturity, emotional stability, and be able to handle difficult situations in a calm manner Must possess a valid BC drivers license
JOURNEYMAN Automotive Service Technician(s) in Hanna Alberta. Hanna Chrysler Ltd. offers competitive wages from $32/hour, negotiable depending on experience. Bright, modern shop. Full-time permanent with benefits. Friendly town just 2 hours from major urban centres. More info at: hannachrylser.ca. Fax 403854-2845; Email: chrysler@telusplanet.net.
Campbell River and Duncan, BC
Thursday’s Paper - Tuesday at 3pm
LEGAL/PUBLIC NOTICES
Hydraulic Service Mechanics
250-737-2527 250-726-2237
DEADLINES:
LEGAL
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT
ARNET, EDGAR G. OCTOBER 12, 1932 − NOVEMBER 23, 2013 Edgar passed away in Ladysmith BC where he had resided for the past few years. He is survived by his sister Beverly Cook, Tofino. Nephew Rod (Jill) Cook, Campbell River BC, nieces Karen (Craig) Russ, Massett BC and Nadine (Richard) Butler, Chemainus BC. Plus several great nieces and nephews. At age 18 Edgar joined the RCAF, his air force career saw him posted to several bases across Canada as well as California, Hawaii and twice to Germany where he learned to speak fluent German. While over seas Edgar traveled through out Europe and North Africa. He was an avid curler and loved to dance. After retiring from the RCAF Edgar returned to Tofino where he ran a successful B&B for many years. He was active in the community as a member of the Lions Club and was past president of the Tofino Legion. A family memorial will be held at a later date.
•
Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm Email: classiďŹ eds@westerlynews.ca Fax: 250-726-4282 #1 - 1920 Lyche Rd., PO Box 317, Ucluelet, BC V0R 3A0
EMPLOYMENT
OBITUARIES
• • • • • •
250-726-2237
Tourism Ucluelet requires a part time administrative assistant w 20 hours per week w Working in the Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce office under the COC executive director w Duties required include but are not limited to; -minute taking of monthly meetings and other administrative tasks. -response to emails and enquiries -social media monitoring and updates -counter inquiries and calls at the office, w Must be experienced with Microsoft office and some web applications A more detailed job description is available upon request. Please send resume and cover letter attn: Susan Payne, Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 428, Ucluelet, BC, V0R 3A0 or spayne@uclueletinfo.com Deadline to submit is Monday, Dec 16th at 4 pm.
FURN 1 br b & b suite in the Edge, avail short term 6 mths Dec to June. Suits 1 n/s person. $675. 250-726-3484 RETIREMENT Apartments, All Inclusive. Meals, transportation, activities daily. Short Leases. Monthly Specials! Call 877-210-4130 TOFINO 2 BR spacious apt, central, in town, n/s, $1000/mo. (250)240-0928 UCLUELET, 2 Bdrm Apts $700+utils & $750+utils. Top flr with great Inlet View. ‘’Quiet Building’’ corner of Helen & Otter St, coin laundry in bldg, satellite TV hook-up avail, ns np (250)726-2577
SUITES FOR RENT ONE BEDROOM ground floor suite in Ucluelet. w/d, available for long term rent. N/S, N/P. For more information phone or email Carl Scott at RE/MAX Mid-Island Realty (250)726-2228 carlscott@ucluelet.com 1 BR bsmt ste in Ucluelet, avail Now, ns/np, $700 250266-0356 2 BDRM 1000 SQFT, W/D, full kitchen, storage, private entrance, parking. In Ucluelet. $800/month plus hydro. text or call 1-619-709-1486.
lane_rowland @mac.com 3 BR upper house in Ucluelet avail Now, ns/np, $1200 incl utils, 250-266-0356 Central location, Ucluelet 2 bdrm ste, pets welcome, w/d, avail Now. $700. Call 250-726-8138
FURNISHED RENTALS 1 BR $650, 2 Large Bachelors $700 & 750/mo, furnished at Raven Lodge in Ucluelet. Large balconies, great views, some storage, power & water incld. all avail Now, 250-726-8229, 250724-0307 Large fully furnished, ready to move in 2 bdrm apt, Ucluelet, view of inlet & mtns. Suits adults. $950/mth + utils. 250-726-4482.
WAREHOUSE Unit # 8- 671 Industrial way. Heated with newer washroom. Very clean. 900sq ft or may sublet partial area. 12 foot door. 3 rooms for storage on mezzanine level. Great for storage or light industrial. Call 250-755-6792
The Westerly News | Page 19
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
ISLAND NEWS
Concerns growing about Alberni Valley air quality ALBERNI VALLEY TIMES
As the temperature drops, the plumes above the Port Alberni Catalyst operation start to grow, and so do the concerns about air quality in the Alberni Valley. Port Alberni’s Catalyst Paper general manager Fred Chinn said, even though they burn tirederived fuel in the cooler months, residents should not be worried about emissions from the mill. “About 95 per cent of what is burned is wood waste,” he said. “But when the bark gets wet in the fall and winter, a tire-derived fuel is added to enrich the bark and make it burn more efficiently.” He said the TDF makes up approximately one per cent of what they burn all year. He compares it to putting pepper on a meal. Chinn said, despite what residents believe - that Catalyst is throwing tires in their boilers - the TDF is actually small particles of the sidewalls of old tires. Each piece is a maximum of approximately 7.5 by 2.5 centimetres. Chinn said when people see white plumes rising from the Catalyst operation, most of the time what they are seeing is steam. The only part of the mill that ever produces smoke is the largest stack, and the amount is minimal. “We love it when people ask if we can turn off the boilers like we did the other day,” he said. “Because what they don’t realize is that it is almost always running. What they see is dependent on the air temperature, not what is happening at
the mill.” But despite Chinn’s reassurances, former chairwoman of the Air Quality Council, an group made up of representatives from the City of Port Alberni, the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, the Ministry of Environment, Environment Canada and other stakeholders, Bernadette Wyton is concerned that Catalyst continues to use tires in its local operation. “They tried to do trials in Crofton and people went ballistic,” Wyton said. “In the end, they chose not to burn the [tire-derived fuel] there, and yet we do here.” She said it is hard to test the effects the TDF has on the air quality in the Alberni Valley. “Burning any kind of toxic material is a concern,” she said. “If you burn them for energy you need a really good system so that it is not released into the air.” She said Catalyst also has to be able to guarantee there won’t be any “upsets” that result in toxic material being released. Air quality meteorologist with the Ministry of Environment Earle Plain said, in terms of air quality, “fine particulates are the most important parameter from a human health perspective.” He said Catalyst Paper is one of the industrial sources that emit fine particulates into the airshed, but it operates its hogfueled (waste wood) boiler under an Air Emission Permit authorized under the Environmental Management Act by the Ministry of Environment. He said the mill has been burning a blend of hog fuel and TDF since 1999 and that it results
in a more efficient burn than if the mill tried to burn wet wood waste. “The addition of a controlled amount of tire-derived fuel to the hog-fuel results in a hotter, cleaner burn and overall better combustion efficiency,” he said, adding that this results in less smoke, not more. He said the emissions from the power boiler are then scrubbed with an electrostatic precipitator, which is the best available control technology for this type of source. “The result is that total particulate emissions from this source are some of the lowest reported in the province,” Plain said. Manager of environment at the local Catalyst operation, Larry Cross, said all of the testing they do on a regular basis confirms their burners are exceptionally clean and efficient. “When the atmosphere is warmer and brighter, you don’t see anything,” he said. “I am confident that emissions are no different on a day like today, when the air is colder. It just condenses differently.” He said, like clouds in the sky, the colours of the steam being released from the mill vary depending on the atmospheric conditions. Dark emissions do not necessarily mean more toxins are being release that day, he pointed out. “Nothing we are doing is changing, just the weather,” he said. Cross said the papermaking process produces a lot of steam because it requires the evaporation of water from the pulp product.
“Our emissions testing shows there is no difference when we are burning tires to when we are not,” he said. “There is an element of trust and faith required here, but what we say is backed up by regular testing.” Plain said with a significant amount of industry in the Alberni Valley, industrial emissions do contribute to the fine particulates in the air here, but it is not the only source. He said, in general, air quality in the Valley is good in the summer months, with things degrading in the fall and winter months, sometimes to unacceptable levels, resulting in air quality advisories. He said many of the changes relate to meteorology, such as a lower sun angle and shorter daylight periods, which mean less ground surface heating. “This leads to stagnation events and the frequent formation of ground-based and elevated temperature inversions that tend to trap emissions from all sources near the surface,” he said. are also more man-made, or anthropogenic, emission sources than in the warmer months. “Cooler temperatures mean that people tend to drive more and idle their vehicles more,” he said. “They heat their residences and businesses with oil, natural gas and wood, and they open-burn leaves and branches in their backyards.” Plain said all of these things, combined with the reduced ability of the atmosphere to disperse the contaminants because of the weather conditions, result in degraded air quality during colder
months. But he said the largest source of fine particulate in the Alberni Valley is wood smoke. “Sources of wood-smoke that originate near ground level, such as woodstove emissions, tend to stay near the ground and don’t disperse well,” he said. “These emissions have an impact right at the neighbourhood level right where people live, work and play.” Port Alberni fire chief Tim Pley said that is why it is important to encourage people to be smart about when they do backyard burning and offer incentives to trade in their old woodstoves for more efficient models. “We have to manage what we can,” Pley said. “It is a balancing act.” He said people should be aware of when the conditions are right to burn and avoid backyard burning when the cloud-cover is low. Wyton said the toxins released when people burn garbage is a huge concern, as are emissions from vehicles, forestry burning and emissions from ships in the harbour. “With Hydro rates increasing we will likely see more people heating with wood,” she said. “We just have to be diligent with testing.” The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District and the City of Port Alberni work with the Air Quality Advisory Committee to offer the Woodstove Exchange Program in the Valley. For more information on how you can take advantage of this program, visit www.acrd. bc.ca or www.portalberni.ca.
Effort to decriminalize marijuana falls short TIMES COLONIST
An effort to collect enough signatures to have a provincial referendum on the decriminalization of marijuana has gone up in smoke. About 220,000 people in B.C. signed the petition organized by Sensible B.C., far short of the required number of 400,000 signatures, representing 10 per cent of voters. Sensible B.C. proposed
that the B.C. Police Act no longer call for police to enforce laws relating to possession and use of marijuana by adults. The petition also called on B.C. to urge the federal government to give B.C. an exemption on marijuana laws or repeal the federal prohibition on possession of marijuana. Dana Larsen, the Vancouver organizer of Sensible B.C., plans to hand over the petition Monday at Elec-
tions B.C.’s Victoria office. “There’s an element of apathy,” said Cam Birge, organizer of Sensible B.C.’s petition drive in Victoria, in explaining why the effort fell short. “One thing that was quite noticeable here in Victoria was the stigma of being seen in public signing [the petition],” he said. “Certainly, federal employees won’t sign it — they’re afraid of losing their jobs.”
About 40 per cent of those who signed the petition don’t use marijuana for recreational or medicinal use, he said. About 20,000 signatures were collected in Greater Victoria, short of the 30,000 goal. “We kind of pulled it together at the last minute, and we did very well under those circumstances,” Birge said. “The demographic is
pretty incredible. They could be 85-year-olds with walkers down to 20-yearolds. There’s no clear demographic.” Many people who signed the petition are tired of drug dealers selling marijuana to youth and the lack of taxation, Birge said. Marijuana is readily available to many youth and is much easier to buy than alcohol and tobacco, he said. The proponents will con-
tinue to keep the decriminalization of marijuana in the public eye as they prepare for the next round of the fight, Birge said. “We want to have a machine in place should we desire to go again,” he said. “The big issue is whether we do it before the federal election or after — it depends who wins, right?”
Send us your photos and story ideas! oϞce@westerlynews.ca
Page 20 | The Westerly News
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Get over 215 HD channels and a free HDPVR rental.
With Shaw Direct Satellite TV, you get access to over 215 crystal-clear HD channels — the most in Canada.
Get an HDPVR rental
FREE
for the first six months*
No term contract
Visit shawdirect.ca/hdpvr or call 1-855-515-8459 to order now.
*Offer available for a limited time and is subject to change without notice. Available to qualified new customers. A valid credit card is required in order to benefit from the program. Advanced HDPVR regular rental price of $9.99 per month after six-month promotional period. Regular prices are subject to change. Channel availability varies by market. Rental equipment must be returned to Shaw if your services are cancelled. Installation and shipping fees may apply. See shawdirect.ca/hdpvr for more details.