Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News, February 07, 2018

TRUDEAU TOWN HALL

VALENTINE’S DAY COMING UP

Ahousaht Chief asks about fishing rights

Romantic ideas for Feb. 14’s festivities

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Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2018

Westerly News

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Roundtable desperately needs Ottawa’s support ANDREW BAILEY andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca

The West Coast’s salmon populations are in dire need of support, but local groups are struggling to get Ottawa’s attention on the issue.

Canada’s Federal Government announced a Coastal Restoration Fund last year and pledged to provide $75 million over five years to support habitat restoration projects throughout the country. When that announcement was made, the Clayoquot Salmon Roundtable, which represents a variety of West Coast governments and organizations working together to restore local salmon habitats, got to work on the application process, but was recently dismayed to learn their efforts had Gord Johns come up empty.

“Clayoquot Sound didn’t get a penny,” said Tofino mayor Josie Osborne. “I was certainly disappointed…Clayoquot Sound is a high profile area. It’s really well known. It has a lot of diligent hard working dedicated people here that have a passion for salmon.”

The Central Westcoast Forest Society’s executive director and roundtable member Jessica Hutchinson said she was surprised to see no funding coming the West Coast’s way.

Continued on A11

ANDREW BAILEY PHOTO

WATERMAN’S SENDOFF: The West Coast came together on a blustery Mackenzie Beach Saturday morning to celebrate the positive impact Paddle for the Planet founder and champion of change Bob Purdy had made on their lives and communities. Purdy was killed by cancer on Jan. 29. Read about him and the event held in his honour on page 8 and check out a video of the sendoff on our website at www.WesterlyNews.ca.

Lifejackets a must after Leviathan II tragedy KATYA SLEPIAN Black Press

The deaths of six passengers aboard the Jamie’s Whaling Station vessel that capsized off the western coast of Vancouver Island in 2015 have been ruled accidental.

In a series of recommendations released Tuesday, the BC Coroners Service found that the six drowned “as a consequence of saltwater immersion” after the Leviathan II

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capsized, and the deaths have been classified as accidental.

Investigating coroner Courtney Cote recommended that to prevent similar deaths, Transport Canada make lifejackets mandatory for passengers on the outer decks of vessels larger than 15 gross tons and carrying more than 12 passengers.

There were 24 passengers and three crew members aboard the Leviathan II when it sank on Oct. 25, 2015. Cote also recommended that more vessels be required to carry emergency position indicating radio beacons.

Continued on A6

February November 2018 2017 Join Surfrider for a clean up on Comber’s Beach. This beach is one of the most Putmicroplastics on your inwalking shoes and join the heavilyDetails: inundated with the Pacific Rim, so collecting microplastic data will be the focus of this clean.

Event is free and everyone is welcome!

Ucluelet wide festivities and shopping extravaganza Date: Friday, February 9th Time: 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Date: Friday Nov 24th, 2017 Where: Meet at Combers Beach parking lot. There is a free shuttle Time: - Midnight (late-ish) leaving Pacific Surf School5-ish in Tofino at 12:20pm and 12:30pm from Beaches Grocery outside Tofino!

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Mike Dickie with his granddaughter Samantha Louise Thomas, who died of a fentanyl overdose.

Death by fentanyl NORA O’MALLEY nora.omalley@westerlynews.ca

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Upon returning from the funeral service for his 26-year-old granddaughter, Samantha Louise Thomas, Ucluelet resident Mike Dickie earnestly wants to share this message with his community: “For everybody taking drugs recreationally, be very careful. Not only does it affect the person that’s taking them, but it’s devastating for friends and family.”

His granddaughter, who was working and going to school in Vancouver, passed away on Jan. 13, 2018 after overdosing on a fatal pill.

A toxicology report would later confirm she had ingested a mixture of cocaine, morphine, and fentanyl.

“As far as I know, she was going to a party and somebody gave her a pill. She got into a taxi and died. She was visiting her mom,” he said. “[Samantha] was so loved. She didn’t have an enemy in the world and she never said a bad thing about anybody. That’s all I can say. She was so loved.”

Dickie remembers taking his granddaughter fishing in his rowboat and hanging out at local coffee shops when she came to visit the Coast.

He said she loved Ucluelet and learned how to surf out here.

“We miss her so much,” he said. “The whole family is crying. There were 300 [First Nations] at the funeral in Surrey.”

Dickie said it wasn’t until recently that Samantha started taking drugs.

“I think she got into some people that were doing it. I mean, she wasn’t an addict. She hated the stuff because of what it did to her mother.”

Constable Jarett Duncan of the Ucluelet RCMP reiterates the fact that you could lose your life if you take recreational drugs.

“At the end of the day you have no idea what’s

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been put in that. You have no idea how its been made, you don’t know where it’s been made and ultimately there too many cases of people throughout B.C. and Canada wide who have been dying due to fentanyl. I think it’s very tragic and this is something that is preventable if people decide not to use these recreational drugs,” said Duncan.

According to a news released published by the BC Coroners Service on Jan. 31, 2018, approximately 81 per cent of the suspected illicit drug deaths to date in 2017 had fentanyl detected, up from 67 per cent in 2016. In most cases, fentanyl was combined with other illicit drugs, most often cocaine, heroin or methamphetamines.

“As the coroners’ data show all too clearly, we are still in the midst of a persistent and continuing epidemic of unintentional poisoning deaths,” said provincial health officer Dr. Perry Kendall in the news release.

In 2017, there were 1,422 suspected drug overdose deaths, according to the data gathered by the BC Coroners Service. This is a 43 per cent increase from the number of overdose deaths in 2016 (993). The number of illicit drug overdose deaths in 2017 equates to about 3.9 deaths per day for the year.

“Through heroic and unprecedented actions, responders on the front lines are daily saving hundreds of lives. But hundreds more are still dying, most often alone and with no one nearby to act when things go wrong. We are going to need to think more broadly, and further out of our comfort zone, to end these tragic losses,” said Dr. Perry Kendall.

Dickie hopes his message is heard loud and clear.

“For people taking this stuff, you’re dealing with Russian roulette. When they die, they affect so many people that love them,” he said. “All I’m talking about is we miss her so much. The whole family is crying.”

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TIDES & WEATHER

THURSDAY FEB. 8, 2018 TIDE

00:48 07:26 14:25 20:39 ANDREW BAILEY PHOTO

Donna Karen’s vehicle was badly damaged after crashing into another vehicle that turned left before it was safe at the West Coast junction.

No injuries in junction crash

Const. Marcel Midlane says intersection is tough for tourists ANDREW BAILEY andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca

Two vehicles collided at the West Coast junction on Sunday afternoon when an Alberni-bound driver traveling from Tofino misjudged the amount of time they had to turn left and steered into the path of a northbound vehicle.

Both vehicles had multiple passengers and everyone escaped the situation without Marcel Midlane significant injuries, according to Const.

Marcel Midlane of the Ucluelet RCMP. The crash occurred around 11:45 a.m.

The B.C. Ambulance Service attended and checked everyone out and the Ucluelet Volunteer Fire Brigade helped direct traffic around the crash site. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.

“It’s kind of a confusing intersection for some people who aren’t from here,” Midlane said adding the driver of the

left-turning vehicle was from out of town.

“We always urge people to slow down, take their time, make good decisions and be cognizant of what’s surrounding them on the road. That’s important for everybody’s safety.”

He said speed was not a factor in the collision.

“It was more of a judgement error than anything else and the driver of the vehicle that was turning was issued a violation ticket for failing to yield while making a left turn,” he said.

That ticket cost the driver $167.

Area resident Donna Karen was in the northbound vehicle along with her father and boyfriend and the three were surprised when the southbound vehicle turned left in front of them.

“We thought they would stop, wait the three seconds until clear and then turn left,” she told the Westerly News in an email.

“We had no stop sign. Maybe they thought we would be going east to Port as well…Luckily we were not going fast.”

She said it was the first time she had seen an airbag deploy.

“My father said he didn’t touch it… seat belt kept him back, but it made his cowboy hat turn sideways,” she said.

“The smell of the powder that comes out of the air bags smell terrible. My asthma acted up and my adrenaline was running high for the first three to four minutes.”

She added she was “so thankful that no one was hurt,” though seatbelt abrasions caused some bruises.

“It felt like a bad dream and I was not myself all day,” she said. “Sure makes me think of life… and dreams about my future.”

She said she had considered bringing her dog Blu along for the ride and felt fortunate that she’d decided against it.

“I don’t have a doggy seat belt for him.

I’m so glad I left our dog home,” she said.

She believes her car was damaged beyond repair.

“My Mitsubishi Mirage is replaceable, but my family isn’t,” she said. “Buckle up everyone.”

Metres

Feet

1.6 3.1 1.3 2.4

5.2 10.2 4.3 7.9

9°/5° Cloudy; Breezy in afternoon

FRIDAY FEB. 9, 2018 TIDE

01:55 08:27 15:35 22:04

Metres

Feet

1.8 3.1 1.2 2.5

5.9 10.2 3.9 8.2

8°/4° Cloud and sun

SATURDAY FEB. 10, 2018 TIDE

03:08 09:27 16:34 23:08

Metres

Feet

1.9 3.1 1.1 2.6

6.2 10.2 3.6 8.5

7°/2° Mostly cloudy

SUNDAY FEB. 11, 2018 TIDE

04:12 10:20 17:22 23:54

Metres

Feet

1.9 3.1 1 2.7

6.2 10.2 3.3 8.9

8°/3° Rain; drizzle in the afternoon

MONDAY FEB. 12, 2018 TIDE

05:04 11:07 18:01

Metres

Feet

1.8 3.2 0.9

5.9 10.5 3.0

8°/1° Mostly sunny

TUESDAY FEB. 13, 2018 TIDE

00:30 05:47 11:48 18:36

Metres

Feet

2.8 1.7 3.3 0.7

9.2 5.6 10.8 2.3

6°/5° Periods of rain

WEDNESDAY FEB. 14, 2018 TIDE

01:02 06:26 12:26 19:08

Metres

Feet

2.9 1.6 3.4 0.6

9.5 5.2 11.2 2.0

9°/6° Low clouds

January sees historic rainfall DAWN GIBSON Black Press

A lot of rain fell on Vancouver Island in January. And more is on the way.

Victoria saw its 36th wettest January on record since 1899, according to Environment Canada.

Victoria received 117.6 millimetres of rain last month, 125 per cent higher than its average of 94.5. Last year, Victoria only saw 51.7 mm in January.

It has been a wet year across the Island so far, with Nanaimo having its sixth wettest January on record since 1941, seeing 308 mm of rain fall, 164 per cent

higher than its normal 187.9 mm, and Tofino having its eighth wettest January on record, seeing 730 mm of rain, which is 150 per cent higher than its average of 487 mm.

Armel Castellan, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, said Tofino saw 250 mm over the course of 36 hours last weekend.

Castellan attributes the extreme amounts of rain to warm air blowing in from the tropics, and meeting with cold air coming from the north.

“When the colder, denser air mixes down and circulates with the warmer air blowing in from the tropics, it can

create a lot of moister in the air and become baroclinic, and that’s when the storms start to follow,” said Castellan.

He said the B.C. south coast will often get hit with these mixtures of warm and cold winds because its mid-latitude location between the equator and the North Pole, and added that during the winter, the occurrence of rain storms happen more frequently due to the greater difference in air temperatures coming together. Castellan said this year is expected to be a slightly cooler year than normal, although January was an average of 1.1 degree higher than usual due to the warm winds.

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OPINION

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B.C. Views

Who will care for province’s frail elderly?

The B.C. NDP government has taken its first significant step to close the wide and persistent gap between the reality of basic support for seniors in residential care and the province’s target.

Officially, that target is an average 3.36 hours of personal care per patient, per day. In practical terms, that means getting two baths a week instead of one, or being escorted with a walker to the dining room instead of being whisked there in a wheelchair by an overworked employee.

In human terms, it means an isolated, lonely senior is not just cleaner and more comfortable, he or she gets a few more minutes of personal contact to relieve the tedium of confinement and the junk of daytime TV. B.C.’s Seniors Advocate, Isobel Mackenzie, reported last week that as of March 2017, that standard was being met in 15

per cent of publicly funded care homes. told that it will require 900 net new care That’s up from nine-per-cent compliance aides, in a sector where more than a quarter the previous year, based on an annual sur- of care aides are over 55,” Dix told me.

Daniel Fontaine, CEO of the B.C. Care vey of the 293 public and contracted care homes across the province.

Providers Association, agrees: “Moving The first move was commufrom casual to full-time is not nicated to facility operators going to do it.”

Fontaine has been pushing in conference calls last week, and will be confirmed in the to expand dual-credit high school courses to get more NDP government budget on Feb. 20. Authorities will be young people into senior care funded to increase their caas a first job, with virtually sual and part-time care aide guaranteed employment even positions to full time as of in rural and remote communiApril 1. ties. These high school spacTom Fletcher es are now mainly focused on Health Minister Adrian Dix cautions that this is at best a male-dominated skilled trades, partial solution, even with half of the cur- while popular culture bombards teens with rent workforce in casual and part-time po- the allure of high-tech careers. sitions. Not all will accept full-time work.

At a residential care conference in Surrey “To reach the 3.36 [hours target], we’re Jan. 26, Dix announced new post-second-

ary training spaces for care aides. Unfortunately, the government is also embarking on an aggressive expansion of child care, and the labour pool for that is largely the same people.

Fontaine says he’s hearing regularly from private colleges around B.C. that have vacant health care assistant training spaces now. The fastest solution would be to fill those spaces with immigrants eager to work, but there’s a problem. Federal immigration authorities won’t issue work permits unless students train at a public college. So the province wastes money on duplicate public spaces due to Ottawa’s arbitrary rules.

And of course the shortage of young workers mirrors the vast growth in seniors as baby boomers retire. Total senior population is projected to reach 1.4 million over the next 15 years.

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Andries Boer snapped this shot of an eagle during a recent vacation to the Tofino-Ucluelet area. Do you have a photo you’d like to share? Send it to us at Office@WesterlyNews.ca or reach out through our Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/WesterlyNews.

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Question of the week Do you plan to do something special on Valentine’s Day?

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Last week’s question Would you support a marijuana dispensary on the West Coast?

YES 71%

NO 29%

LETTERS

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Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News

Wednesday, February 7, 2018 A5

Letters to the Editor Deadline: Sundays 2:00pm Andrew.Bailey@WesterlyNews.ca

Letters to the Editor must be signed and include your full name, home town and contact phone number. Those without these requirements will not be published. Letters must be 300 words or less and are subject to editing. The News retains the right not to publish submissions.

LESSONS FROM EVACUATION After January 23’s Tsunami warning, we know our community is breathing a collective sigh of relief.

Thankfully this event has allowed us the opportunity to reflect, appreciate and take stock of the procedures both in our home and of the community.

First and foremost, we would like to acknowledge and thank all of the emergency personnel who rose to the call of duty by leaving their own families, potentially risking their own lives to come to the aid of others in our community.

In addition, the spirit of genuine care and concern of neighbours who took the time away from their own evacuation to go door to door in their own neighbourhoods was heart-warming and leaves us feeling eternally grateful.

This event also leaves a few questions with regard to how and when this warning was communicated.

First and foremost we became acutely aware of the lack of emergency sirens around our town?

Many people slept through this event because they weren’t in the vicinity of being able to hear our one and only siren.

It doesn’t make sense to expect our emergency personal to go door to door waking people up when their resources could be better spent if there were more sirens around our town to notify residents.

Why is it that Tofino has three sirens made possible through grants with further applications in progress for even more sirens while we only have one which was said to be possibly overheating at the time we needed it most?

The second question is in regard to when the warning went out.

Why did it take so long for the siren to be activated at 3:05 a.m. when the sirens in Tofino were activated just after 2 a.m. with the one call now notification activated at 2:08am?

What could have prevented our emergency notification system from being activated for such a lengthy period of time?

Had the earthquake in Alaska been a subduction earthquake as opposed to the slip strike earthquake, we could possibly been having a very different conversation.

Thankfully we have the opportunity to ask these and many more questions to be that much more prepared as a community.

Hopefully next time we will be that much better prepared than we were this time.

Jeannette Garcia Ucluelet

TRENDING ONLINE TOFINO AND UCLUELET AT ODDS OVER ICE RINK: Contact us: 316 Main St, Box 67, Tofino BC V0R 2Z0 250-725-2219 / grants@clayoquotbiosphere.org

Aqutic activites center would be utilized to a profit by locals of All ages, tourists, surfers and physio applications. Model it as a scaled down version of the spectacular Canada Games Center in Whitehorse Yukon. A 1/5 replica would be an overwhelming boon to both communities.

With shuttle service through out the day from both communities thus intern connecting both at last. Yeah?!?! Build an ice rink.... And watch it sit under utilized in perpetuity.

John Lance Fournier Roberts Heating for the pool would come from the ice rink...a win win.

Andy Horne Build that rink already!!! As pointed out in several pieces I’ve read,there are many, many uses and the cost is far smaller than a pool.

Get the Horse, put it to work, and save up for the Cart.

Kevin Williamson I feel like the pool is the second piece to all of this. Personally I would benefit from both, but don’t really feel more prominent about either side. However.... Pools are so extremely expensive, so having the rink would hugely cut heating costs. Not to mention I think people on the coast may forget that a skating rink can be used for so many other things. Recreation space.

The ice can easily be removed for a large event space. Tournaments hosted would bring people from other communities to the west coast in the slow season, making local business thrive.

It adds an exciting new level of recreation we haven’t currently had on the west coast! Hockey and figure skating are amazing sports, not to mention it’s a team sport!!!! We all know we are lacking that on the coast.....And my personal favourite is that it would provide the First Nations youth at Long Beach a location for sports that is within a reasonable distance for the first time! All of these examples making $$$$$. Let’s stop fighting about pool vs rink!

Let’s make both happen!!!

Dakota Graham

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West Coast Photo Showdown

Pacific Rim

Whale Festival

– CATEGORIES –

1. Wildlife 2. Landscape 3. People + Nature

Photo

John Fo

rde

HOW TO ENTER ~There is a $10 charge per photo

(maximum 5 photos per photographer).

Deadline for photo entries to be February 21st, 2018. ~ Please submit your DIGITAL entries to adventures@hellonature.ca Must be high resolution (at least 300 dpi) and 11 X 14. Please keep file size to under 10mb.

Please include: ~ NAME of photographer ~ DATE of photo taken ~ PLACE of photo taken ~ PHOTOGRAPHER contact info – phone number and email This contest is sponsored by

Subtidal Adventures Ltd. & Hello Nature Adventure Tours

CONTEST DETAILS ~ Photos must be taken on the West Coast Peninsula in 2017-2018 from Tofino (can include Ahousaht, Opisaht, Hesquiaht and Hot Springs Cove) to Ucluelet (can include the Broken Group Islands) ~ Entry period is January 31, 2018 at 12:01am to February 21, 2018 at 11:59pm. ~ Our panel of Judges will pick the 10 top finalists for each category. The 30 top photos will be printed and displayed at the Gray Whale Deli during Whale Fest, March 10-23, 2018! ~ Auction and viewing will take place at the Gray Whale Deli throughout the Pacific Rim Whale Festival.

This is a Whalefest partnered event with 25% of net proceeds going back to the Pacific Rim Whale Festival.

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Trudeau’s town hall lacks clarity for Ahousaht First Nation Chief says PM was respectful, but vague ANDREW BAILEY andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited Vancouver Island last week to host a town hall meeting in Nanaimo.

Ahousaht Chief Councillor Greg Louie attended the Feb. 2 event and was one of the hand-raised attendees to be called on by Trudeau.

Prior to asking his question, Louie asked two particularly loud hecklers peppering Trudeau with criticisms to be respectful.

“While I’m speaking, I hope those two across from me can be quiet so the Prime Minister and everybody else can listen to me and the answer I’m expecting,” Louie said.

“Please, be quiet.”

With the crowd momentarily settled, Louie asked Trudeau about the status of the T’aaq-wiihak Court Case that, he said, has been on the federal docket for “eight to nine years.”

The case involves five Nuu chah nulth Nations—Ahousaht, Ehattesaht/Chinehkint, Hesquiaht, Mowachaht/Muchalaht, and Tla-o-qui-aht—fighting for their right to fish and to also sell the fish they catch.

“There’s still far too many limitations to what they can and cannot do Mr. Prime Minister and I would like to know when your cabinet will make a decision,” Louie said.

Trudeau said he has had “many discussions” with his minister of justice Jody Wilson-Raybould and minister of fisheries Dominic LeBlanc to carve out a way to move forward in a way that is “respectful of science and evidence, is respectful of traditional knowledge, traditional practices [and] traditional territory.”

He acknowledged the issue has taken too long to resolve.

“Thank you for your leadership and

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NANAIMO NEWS BULLETIN PHOTO

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau held a town hall meeting in Nanaimo on Feb. 2. also thank you for the patience. I know these are issues that have gone on far too long. You mention eight to nine years, but really these are issues that go back decades and even generations and it is time we move forward on them,” he said.

“There are no easy answers on this.

This is something that we have to work through together, but it is something that we will, I pledge to you, sit down, work with you, listen to your concerns and figure out what is the right path forward for your community and for everyone…There are folks who are impatient. I’m impatient, you’re impatient.

We know we need to get this done. We also know we need to get it right and that’s exactly what we will do.”

Louie told the Westerly News on Monday that he was pleased to have attended the town hall and that he felt Trudeau had respected his question, but added the Prime Minister’s response did not provide much clarity.

He said there is confusion around how the meetings Trudeau pledged to have would be set up.

“What does that look like? And who is we? Does that mean him or does that mean the Fisheries Minister,” he asked.

“Does that mean Minister LeBlanc is going to come to British Columbia and sit down and talk with our T’aaq-wiihak negotiators and team? And, if that’s what it means, when will that happen?”

He said he was unable to talk with Trudeau after the town hall and hasn’t heard from the PM’s office since the event, but the five Nations are investigating their next steps.

“The Nuu chah nulth Nations on the West Coast want to be able to go fishing.

This is about title and rights. We want to be able to go fishing and make a decent living fishing,” he said. “What I hear from the fisherman on the negative side is that there’s a lot of restrictions.”

He cited boat size, fishing location and prohibited gear as examples of restrictions frustrating fishers.

“There needs to be some clarity. What is this decision going to mean for Ahousaht and the other Nations?” he asked.

“Does it mean there’s going to be more open fishing around the coast?

Will the season be a little longer? Will they be able to go further out into the fishing grounds? There’s a lot of uncertainty.”

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Jamie’s says steps already taken

Arts & Entertainment, Service •Library Group, Non-Profit •Fundraiser •Open to the Public Organization, Church, Library, To submit your activities, email We accept yourNotices A1 office@westerlynews.ca Arts & Entertainment, Fundraiser, Open Service to the From Jamie’s Whaling Station general drop by:COME, ON A or FIRST Group, Non-Profit manager Corene Inouye said that the Public notices on a first come, #102-1801 Bay St, Ucluelet Organization, Church, Library, recommendations in the coroners reFIRST SERVED BASIS first served basis. port were similar to those issued by the Fundraiser, Open to the Public notices on a first come, first served basis.

To submit your activities, email

To submit your activities, email office@westerlynews.ca office@westerlynews.ca

orordrop by: drop by: #102-1801Bay Bay St, #102-1801 St,Ucluelet Ucluelet

Transportation Safety Board.

“We’ve already implemented the recommendations,” Inouye said. The safety board report was released in spring 2017.

Inouye noted that the company had gone beyond both the recommendations laid out in the post-capsizing reports and Transport Canada regulations.

According to Inouye. the ‘keyhole’ style lifejackets that meet Transport Canada regulations are for outside use only; they cannot be worn inside for fear of passengers becoming trapped.

TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD PHOTO

Six people died after whale watching vessel capsized in 2015.

Instead, the whale watching company has mandated that all passengers wear self-inflating lifejackets, including

those vessels under 12 passengers.

It’s something that Inouye hopes that Transport Canada requires of all commercial vessels.

“Transport Canada needs to see if inflating lifejackets can be approved,” said Inouye, noting that she’d like to see those regulation put in place for all commercial passenger vessels – including some, such as smaller fishing charters, that have fewer than 12 passengers.

Tofino Mayor Josie Osborne has not yet responded to a request for comment and Transport Canada told Black Press Media that a response is forthcoming.

For more information and updates on this story, visit www.Westerly.News.ca.

Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News

www.westerlynews.ca

PROFILE

Wednesday, February 7, 2018 A7

Do you have something to say?

Andrew Bailey, Editor 250-726-7029 • andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca

NORA O’MALLEY PHOTO

Drift Spa director Valerie Thomas holds a sample of cedar rose essential oil she uses for massage treatments. Thomas says the most important part about Valentine’s Day is spending quality time with your partner.

Valentine’s Day ideas for West Coasters Even if it’s just a walk or cuddling on the couch, quality time together is important NORA O’MALLEY nora.omalley@westerlynews.ca

Not sure about what to do with your sweetie on Valentine’s? Here’s a round up of romantic infused ideas for Feb. 14 that are close to home, with something for everyone, even the parsimonious kind.

Seating is still available for the Ucluelet Volunteer Fire Brigade’s annual Valentine’s Dinner at Matterson House Restaurant (à la carte). Members of the fire brigade will be your servers for the evening, and all proceeds from the night go directly to the Brigade. Call 250-726-2200 to make a reservation.

The Great Room at Long Beach Lodge is hosting a Valentine’s Happy Hour from 3-6p.m., which includes one dozen oysters and two glasses of bubbles ($30). Couples could also opt to share the Great Room With Love Special dessert for two ($18)

after an evening stroll along Cox Bay, perhaps?

Head chef at 1909 Kitchen in Tofino Paul Moran and his team have created a sumptuous V-Day six-course dinner menu that features Cortes Island oysters, braised lamb, and a pavlova dessert to die for ($49).

Or what about a fun date night a Howler’s Family Restaurant in Ucluelet? They will have their usual wing Wednesday special going as well as a special dessert to share. Bowling will be on the house.

Leading up to Valentine’s Day, Ultramarine Art Supply is hosting a drop-in Valentine’s Day Card Making workshop from 12-3p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10 ($10 includes all materials). Parents are encouraged to attend with their children.

Attach your crafty card to a personalized Chocolate Bear ($16.95) or Chocolate

Lover’s Hearts ($34.95) made locally by Chocolate Tofino and you’ll have one beary happy significant other.

A Pre-Valentine’s Ladies Night is also set for Sunday, Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. at the Army and Navy in Ucluelet (Free). This event promises to be a good time, with Turning Tides Tarot offering readings ($10), Wild Roots Esthetics offering mini manicures and lash tinting ($15 per treatment) and Playground of the Senses products will also be on site for your perusal.

For those feeling an urge to indulge, Drift Spa at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort offers couples massages started at $100 per person.

“Having a massage together is just a beautiful experience because it’s spending time together, but it’s also working on the inner self at the same time. You’re sharing that moment with someone you love. It’s

“You’re sharing that moment with someone you love.”

– Valerie Thomas

like self-care and couple-care,” said Drift Spa director Valerie Thomas.

She emphasized the fact that spending quality time together – even if it’s a long walk or working out together – is the most important part.

“Do activities together. Try something new that you’ve always wanted to do. They say that we should always do something out of our comfort zone to grow personally. If you do it with your partner than you grow personally and as a team and create a stronger bond, which is lovely,” Thomas said.

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A8 Wednesday, February 7, 2018

Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News

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Waterman’s sendoff honours Bob Purdy Coast celebrates an inspirational icon ANDREW BAILEY andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca

West Coast paddlers and ocean lovers gathered at Mackenzie Beach on Saturday to honour an inspirational champion of change.

Cancer stole Bob Purdy’s life on Jan. 29. He was 64.

The Paddle for the Planet founder moved to the West Coast from his longtime Okanagan home in 2015 and made an immediate and profound impact on his new surroundings, quickly becoming a familiar face in the ocean and stalwart ally of environmental and social initiatives.

Through Paddle for the Planet, Purdy urged everyone in earshot and beyond to create positive change.

“You can look out your back window virtually anywhere on the planet and see things that need to be changed,” he told the Westerly News on New Year’s Eve, 2015, before heading out on his Stand up Paddleboard for his 1,826th consecutive day.

Despite breaking his nose at Coho Beach the first time he tried the sport in 2007, Purdy became a pioneer of Stand Up Paddleboarding and fell in love with the sport so deeply that he opened his own SUP shop. He sold that shop in 2010 and began his consecutive paddleboarding streak, which he began on Jan. 1, 2011, in an effort to motivate others to make social, environmental and economic changes in their world.

“We as a species, I think, have lost our connection to the natural world and with stand up paddle it just brings you right back there,” he said. “When you’re connected to nature you’ll take care of it and if we can get that message across that’s going to be a huge help.”

Hernia surgery brought an end to Purdy’s streak at 2,100 days on Oct. 1, 2016.

“I’m really sad that the daily paddle is going to end,” he told the Westerly before heading onto the water that day. “At the same time, I’m super excited and super happy about how far we’ve come, what Paddle for the Planet has been able to achieve, how we’ve been able to get our message out about changing the way we live on the planet and about what lies forward in the future.”

His legacy, and the change he inspired, was on full display on Saturday morning as the people whose lives he touched paddled out together to celebrate his impact.

ANDREW BAILEY PHOTO

Bob Purdy looks out over the ocean off Mackenzie Beach from his paddleboard on Dec. 31, 2015. The local champion of change passed away on Jan. 29.

“I’m here to pay some respects to a really good solid guy,” said Tofino councillor Greg Blanchette.

“I won’t say last respects, because I’ll be paying respects to the guy for, well, every time I see somebody on a paddleboard.

Every time I go near the ocean, I’ll give him a thought…He was a visionary. He had a vision and he walked it for years and years and years. I’ve really got to admire him for that.”

“He was a man of purpose and passion,” added Tofino local Zak Cross.

Lisa Ahier said she would probably have never started paddleboarding if she hadn’t met Purdy.

“He was the first person to get me on a board and make me feel really secure at 57 years old, thinking that I could get out there and do it too. He encouraged me every step of the way and, now, I go out on a daily basis,” she said. “Many, many, times when I’m in the water, I’m thinking of Bob…He was instrumental in this community to get us all on boards and Paddle for the Planet was such an inspiration to us all because we really care about where we live.”

Surfrider Pacific Rim Chair Michelle Hall called Purdy an “amazing ocean defender” and incredible source of support.

“When we first came to bring Surfrider Pacific Rim back to life, he was one of my biggest mentors and a really great inspiration for the ocean and the community,” she said.

Nancy Woods said she met Purdy through Surfrider and was struck by his passion.

“I’m here to honour my sweet friend Bob,” she said.

“We all knew Bob as a hardcore environmentalist. He would do anything to save the planet. He was so passionate about the earth…Such intelligence, such wisdom, but such heart. I love you Bob.”

MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS • COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL SERVICING Hey Tofino & Ukee! Have you had your heating system serviced lately? Get peace of mind - call your LOCAL technician to book your maintenance today!

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Wednesday, February 7, 2018 A9 Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News

www.westerlynews.ca

Chamber chat

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING (Rezoning)

DISTRICT OF TOFINO Box 9, 121 Third Street Tofino, BC V0R 2Z0

UBERE interviews underway in Ukee

Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing pursuant to Section 464 of the Local Government Act will be held in the Council Chambers of the Tofino Municipal Hall, 380 Campbell St., Tofino, B.C., on Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at 9:30 AM to hear representations from members of the public who deem their interest in property affected by the following bylaw:

Local input can help solve problems

BYLAW No. 1238: “District of Tofino Zoning Map Amendment Bylaw No.1238, 2018 (amending Tofino Zoning Bylaw No. 770)”; a bylaw to prohibit the use of any land, building, or structure for the sale, production, or distribution of cannabis.

Last time I wrote in this space “Even at this early point was just before Christmas, when I introduced a new Chamber in the program, we’re seeing of Commerce program called some common results.”

UBERE that was being rolled out in 2018.

–Jamie Vann Struth The program starts with detailed interviews with local employers, focusing on many different aspects of running a business or non-profit that we will highlight to help local in Ucluelet. employers find and participate in As of last week, those interviews the skill development that they are underway! need.

Another example of our initial I spent the week working with the Chamber’s new program facilita- work is making employers aware tor, Joseph Rotenberg, and togeth- of the full range of workforce aser we interviewed 10 employers. sistance programs that provide a fiRanging from about 45 minutes nancial incentive to create jobs for to nearly 2 hours in length, youth or the unemployed, we discussed employer sator to provide training to isfaction and issues with apprentices and other existing staff. their current facility, their As we get more responstechnology and equipment, es in the months ahead, I and of course, their current and potential employees. look forward to sharing We asked about how some of the more specifquickly the companies ic results with the comare growing, how much Jamie Vann Struth munity. One of the most they expect to grow in the important outcomes of future, and whether the highway this project is the ability to report closures in the next two years are to local and senior governments likely to impact them. about the most important issues We asked about their satisfaction facing local businesses and other with various public services, with employers. the business climate in Ucluelet, For example, if there is a parand their own expertise and ticular regulation or policy that is comfort in different aspects of causing a problem, we can provide management. input that is not based on anecEven at this early point in the dotes from a handful of compaprogram, we’re seeing some com- nies, but on the power of dozens mon results. and dozens of detailed accounts One is the strong interest in more from local employers. local training opportunities, inIf you would like more informacluding training for the managers tion or would like to participate themselves and for their staff. in the study, please contact me There is also clear interest in em- (jamie@uclueletinfo.com) or Joployers getting to know each other seph (joseph@uclueletinfo.com). in a more social setting, perhaps And, stay tuned to the Chamwith some learning mixed in. ber website, Facebook page In response, we’re already moving and newsletter for the details ahead with creating new programs. of the upcoming programs and This includes hosting seminars events. and workshops that combine education, fun, and networking.

Jamie Vann Struth is the UBERE There are also many training re- Program Manager for the Ucluelet sources that are already available Chamber of Commerce.

The proposed zoning amendment would cover the whole of the District of Tofino.

Get your copy today!

hitched NORTH ISLAND

WEDDING & EVENTS AFFAIR 2018

District wide

APPLICANT: District of Tofino All persons who deem their interest in property affected by the proposed bylaw will be given an opportunity to be heard on matters contained in the bylaw. The application and further information may be inspected at the Tofino Municipal Office, 121 Third St., Tofino, B.C., during regular business hours (9:00 am - 4:00 pm) between January 29, 2018 and February 12, 2018 except weekends and statutory holidays. Written submissions may be mailed to the District of Tofino, P.O. Box 9, Tofino, B.C., V0R 2Z0, or emailed to arodgers@tofino.ca. Please submit any comments or concerns you may have regarding this application before 4:00 PM, February 9, 2018.

For more information, please contact: Aaron Rodgers Manager of Community Sustainability (T) 250.725.3229 (F) 250.725.3775 (E) arodgers@tofino.ca

hitched

TREAT YOUR GUESTS TO A TASTE OF PERFECTION

NORTH ISLAND

ORGANIC, LOCAL AND HAND MADE FALL IN LOVE WITH IVAN’S TRUFFLES

BY ERIN HALUSCHAK PHOTOS BY KAREN MCKINNON

I

van Loubier knew that chocolate struck a chord with him.

WEDDING & EVEN

TS AFFAIR 2018

The Comox Valley chocolatier and owner of Ivan’s Truffles spent time as a chef in Toronto prior to devoting much of his time now to the decadent treats.

Loubier worked with a chocolatier and noticed people’s reaction to chocolate.

“Full-bodied chocolate – there’s a neurological love.

The texture, flavour and feeling of eating truffles are so perfect. They’re so small, but have so much happiness in one bite.”

Loubier saw the simplicity in the product, and realized that he wanted to dedicate his business to making handmade, high quality, fresh truffles.

VIEWS TO TAKE YOUR BREATH

Following an entrepreneurial course in Vancouver, Loubier started Ivan’s Truffles, specializing in natural, GMO-free, handmade, ethical truffles.

He uses a rich flavoured ganache which is hand-piped, individually enrobed in tempered dark chocolate, and dusted with premium cocoa power. Additionally, he uses only Valrhona chocolate, organic cream, local honey, organic teas, edible organic flowers and organic fruit.

While he uses regular flavours such as lavender, Loubier also experiments with other local delicacies such as Cumberland Brewing Company beer and, in the summer, orange and basil, and grapefruit and rosemary.

When it comes to weddings, Loubier works with a client both in terms of flavours and portion size. On average, he makes around three batches a week (around 300 pieces) in order to maintain the integrity of the product.

For wedding options, the truffles can be used as part of the dessert or as favours for the guests. Generally, Loubier suggests one jar per person, but there are many options in which he can work with the client.

Through his website, ivanstruffles.com, Loubier creates his delicacies not only for those in the Comox Valley (he is a frequent vendor at the Comox Farmers’ Market) but can ship across the country.

He is hoping to expand to find vendors in Victoria, Calgary, Vancouver and Toronto.

BOOK A LOCAL DESTINATIO

W

BY JOCELYN DOLL

N WEDDING WITH 49 NORTH

PHOTOS COURTESY

OF 49 NORTH

2018

Call 778-922-4826 or email Ivanstruffles.CV@gmail.com.

WINTER 2018 | H I T C H E D M A G A Z I N E

AWAY

HELICOPTER S

21

Racked in Courtenay & Campbell River or on Facebook @hitchedweddingevents

FINDING THEMSELVES AND EACH OTHER ON VANCOUVER ISLAND

HELICOPTE

RS hat would the perfect drop for your wedding back “The most popular one is the Comox be?

Glacier tour, it’s 45 minutes,” Fleury said. three helicopters at the same time.

Next to a pristine alpine lake?

On a mountainto “The best one I’ve p overlooking both The intimate rides and romantic had was a First Nation views wedding, the ocean and Strathcona quickly attracted a really nice a different kind Park? On an of isolated beach with “…They had this really one,” said Fleury. client, people planning nothing but the cultural wedding an epic that was orcas and eagles proposal. really interesting.” to break the silence?

Make the epic scenery “It’s always fun,” For those with a Fleury said. smaller budget that of the North lots Island the backdrop of different reactions, “I’ve had still dream of the of your big day dramatic photos, but always North with 49 North Helicopters. tears and happy.

49 has also picked It’s nice to see.” up after the ceremonythe newly weds The company started That has grown in 2007 with into planning them to mountainto and and taken training helicopter destination ps for photos weddings of sorts. pilots. Owners JeanWhere before returning them to Marc Messmer and the destination their guests. is a Sheena Ell have both been in the with a spectacular nearby location, “It doesn’t really industry for 25 years. get any better to view, be on accessible by helicopter. that is only a mountain top “They were just for a wedding,” Fleury working everywhere said. in Canada then finally “We’ve done quite came here,” said a few now and Bastian Fleury people have been From the Coastal pilot Mountains across manager for 49 North. and marketing Fleury said. “It’s really happy so far,” Strait to the the hidden gems not pretty easy for us fifteen to minutes away organize now.”

From training, from the Campbell 49 North expanded River Airport, the pilots into fighting fires, The largest wedding at 49 North know forestry work and all the company of the best views, heliskiing before all you need to know branching off into has done so far is 14. They used two is what backdrop you want tourism. Which ensures helicopters and made for your big they are busy a couple of trips. day and they will year round.

But the size of the find a way to make party really depends happen. it on the budget as 49 North can do up 28 HITCHED MA G A Z I N E | WINTER to

DRESS DINGLANTZVIL OVE A WEDBOUTIQUE LE ANDENTRE-L IN RE-USECONSIGNM RECYCLE, PRICES AT WHITE BRIDAL LIKE NEW DRESSES FOR FIND

CUNNINGHAM new and gently

BY TAMARA be can peruse $250 to to get Brides-towhich go from pastime, like used gowns, “It’s my favourite off the rack. or by myself Ryan is bringing together with a girlfriend $1,300, and buy with ntrepreneur Tovè shopping,” said are impressed ent shopping consignment consigning “A lot of people can get a Vera Wang her love of consignm Boutique, a and go who also started her two that because you for $1,200,” to White Bridal about re- Ryan, ago, including worth $4,000, shop that’s all everything years dress in here, dresses are very wedding dress “Some of my wedding dresses. buy she said. worth what they’re worth.” use and re-love. in the chance to and White Bridal Boutique, , When Ryan was given it, and has been simple month each Ryan bought stock Lantzville took the of she of ty per cent an the business, the seaside communi stamp on the boutique, Thirty says Ryan, who's making putting her own ent bridal is new, last August. only consignm the d industry, considere into the bridal and central Island.

It’s her first foray shop in the north to consignment. but she’s no stranger

E

18

HITCHED

MAGAZIN

2018 E | WINTER

ZACK AND DEX MADE AN EFFORT TO SUPPORT BUSINESSES THAT USE GENDER NEUTRAL LANGUAGE

JERRITT WILL TAKE CARE OF YOUR GUESTS NEEDS

PHOTOS AND STORY BY KAREN MCKINNON

I

t was Halloween in Victoria, and Indiana Jones and a surfer dude with a fake tan caught each other’s eye.

The story almost ended there, with these two shy costumed students never going past bashful hellos. But three years later, after they both had gone abroad separately for their studies, their similar experiences brought them together in conversation.

On their first date date at the astronomy tower in Victoria, they knew it was love.

Although living in Vancouver at the

10

time of planning their wedding, it was indisputable that they would get married on Vancouver Island.

Both Zack and Dex were raised on the Island and it was where they both discovered themselves and each other.

No detail was left unattended to on their wedding day, thanks to the tireless planning of the grooms and their families.

However, planning wasn’t without its challenges.

The lack of gender-neutral or same-

sex language used by vendors was frustrating. Most people would ask the name of the bride, bride's parents and bride's wedding party.

From a lack of same-sex wedding cards to people being confused on why a man was going dress shopping with his wedding party, they noticed strong gender norms still in place that they had hoped had relaxed since marriage equality had passed in July 2005.

Zack and Dex ultimately found the right vendors for them and were able

H I T C H E D M A G A Z I N E | WINTER 2018

Coming in 2019, Hitched - January 27

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CHANTAL AND DAVE CHOOSE THE CUMBERLAND FOREST TO SET A MOOD OF PEACE AND BEAUTY

MEET YOUR CULINARY MATC H KATHY

Contact events@blackpress.ca for more information

ZACK AND DEX’S FAIRYTALE WEDD ING

A REFLECTION OF FEELINGS AND COMMITM ENT

A10 Wednesday, February 7, 2018

Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News

www.westerlynews.ca

Worry-Free Boating This Season?

Ucluelet Marine Services

Prepare Now - Off Season Rates

Call for Appointment Henry: 250-266-9402

Foot of Seaplane Base Road Inboard - Outboard - Gas - Diesel

The Broken Group Islands are a popular destination for paddlers, but a new reservation system has frustrated some local guides.

WESTERLY FILE PHOTO

New system concerns kayakers Park Reserve launches reservations for Broken Group Islands ANDREW BAILEY andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca

TAKE OUT @ THE HATCH 11AM - 11PM ALL SPECIALS available plus Beer & Wine off-sales

Visit tofinoresortandmarina.com to view the menu & CALL 250.726.6122 to order!

TOFINO LEGION MEMBERS & GUESTS - Info: Call 250-725-3361 All Canadian Citizens and Many Others are Welcome to Join – No Military History Needed

SPECIAL EVENT

Bout The Music Saturday, February 17th • 9pm to 1am Bringing music back again for the start of the new year 2018, come out and dance, because its all about the music! Ask your valentine onto the dance floor. Lasers and local DJ’s Scotian and Sliceoginger with special guests, stay tuned! Playing, bass music, Trap, R&B, D&B, World, Hip Hop.

REGULAR EVENTS GAMES & SOCIAL FRIDAYS 4-11pm • Drop in Pool, Ping Pong, Foosball, Darts DART LEAGUE MONDAYS 7pm BINGO! WEDNESDAYS 7-9pm THE OUT TO LUNCH BUNCH • Monthly seniors’ lunch and socializing at the Legion.

• All seniors welcome. For details: 250-726-6655.

NEWS TIP?

Call the Westerly Newsroom at 250.726.7089 andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca

The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve has launched a new reservation system in the Broken Group Islands that has upset local kayak guides who believe the change was unnecessary and could force paddlers into dangerous waters.

“I don’t think it’s been well thought out on the safety aspect and all of the kayakers are basically hung up on that point,” said Tracy Eeftink, co-owner of Majestic Ocean Kayaking and a member of the Sea Kayaking Guides of BC. SKGBC has been lobbying against the new reservation system since the change was announced last year.

Eeftink and Majestic have been offering kayaking experiences around the Broken Group Islands for roughly 25 years and said she has never had an issue that the new reservation system would have helped. She added she was surprised that SKGBC was never consulted before the change was implemented.

There are seven islands within the Broken Group, which can only be accessed by vessel. Eeftink said requiring reservations for each island could force paddlers coming in late at night to push themselves to the island they’ve reserved, rather than landing safely on the closest one.

“Everybody just manages to squeeze in and sometimes maybe there might be too many people on that island but at least you’re on land and you’re not out in the middle of the ocean. You made it somewhere,” she said. “If somebody comes in late, you do your best to help people.”

“Because there is no entry gate, there’s no kiosk, there is no staffed islands, it’s kind of been a free-for-all.”

– Dave Tovell The Park Reserve’s Visitor Experience Manager Dave Tovell said the Park Reserves other camping sites, like Greenpoint Campground and the West Coast Trail, have reservation systems and that a system for the Broken Group Islands has been in the works for roughly 10 years.

“In the past, it’s all been first come, first serve,” Tovell said. “If you were coming from around the world, or from Tofino, Ukee or Bamfield, you were just taking your chances and hoping there was room on the island you were going to.”

He acknowledged SKGBC’s concerns, but said he’s confident those concerns will subside once people see the reservation system working.

“I’m not surprised with any negative feedback. It’s a change and people are comfortable. It’s been this way for many years, but we really think it’s a positive change,” he said. “People will see that we’re flexible and the system is flexible and it will work out to everyone’s needs.”

He said reservations will operate on a three-days-notice cancellation system and added that Park Reserve staffers will be understanding of “extenuating circumstances.”

“But, we don’t want people holding onto reservations and then cancelling at the last minute and precluding someone else from coming and booking their trip,” he said.

Tovell said the new system will also help Park Reserve staffers ensure all fees are collected from the Islands’ users. The Islands carry a 14-night maximum stay.

Campers may only stay on one specific island for four nights in a row. The rate is $9.80 per person per night.

Tovell said those fees, which are reinvested back into the Park Reserve’s amenities and maintenance, have long been in place, but have been tough for staff to collect.

“Because there is no entry gate, there’s no kiosk, there is no staffed islands, it’s kind of been a free-for-all. Some people have paid, but the majority haven’t paid for the entry fees. So, this year, we’re trying to make a more concentrated effort,” he said.

“We haven’t invested a lot of resources in the Broken Group Islands in the last little while. We want to change that.”

Eeftink hopes some of those funds go towards creating more camping spots on the islands to help ease congestion during the busier summer months as the Broken Group is a popular haven for paddlers.

“It’s a really rich and healthy environment. There’s a lot of wildlife; it’s very abundant out there with the sea mammals and intertidal life and all the shorebirds. It’s very special,” she said.

“You can have a really, really, good trip no matter what your paddling ability is.”

www.westerlynews.ca

Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News

Wednesday, February 7, 2018 A11

CBT reinvents Call for Projects opportunities

Fewer, bigger, grants to be dished out ANDREW BAILEY andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca

The West Coast has a variety of regional challenges to conquer and the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust is ready to fund some unique solutions.

The CBT has reinvented its long running Call for Projects granting program to promote larger-scale initiatives and is looking for local governments, First Nations, non-profits and educational institutions to team-up and get cracking on peninsula-wide collaborations.

“We’re focusing on partnership-funding to address regional priorities and complex challenges that influence sustainability in the biosphere,” said the CBT’s executive director Rebecca Hurwitz.

The 16 year-old Call for Projects granting stream has been renamed Vital Grants and now offers applicants maximum payouts of $20,000. Call for Projects grants had maxed out at $8,000 in previous years.

“These larger grants are aimed to support meaningful collaboration between organizations, communities and cultures and must include a minimum of two project partners,” Hurwitz said.

“In 2017, we did a lot of reflecting on our granting streams and granting programs and had a lot of helpful feedback from our committees and organizations about CBT funding so this is in response to that feedback.”

She said larger grants will mean fewer recipients, with roughly five grants between $15,000-$20,000 expected to be dished out this year compared to 23 in 2016, but added the CBT has increased its discre-

CBT PHOTO

The Clayoquot Biosphere Trust team: Brooke Wood, Rebecca Hurwitz, Faye Missar and Laura Loucks are excited to offer a new Vital Grants funding stream.

tionary funding budget from $10,000 to $25,000 this year. Discretionary grants max out at $5,000.

“We were noticing a trend towards smaller and smaller grants and we saw that organizations were cobbling together funding or phasing projects in order to complete the work,” she said. “So, we wanted to create a bigger grant opportunity that would give organizations a funding stream that could support their larger projects.”

She said the CBT is excited to zero-in on key projects.

“It’s important to address our highest needs,” she said. “We’re really focusing in on regional priorities and complex challenges around sustainability and creating the future in the biosphere that we want to see.”

She cited regional transportation initiatives, Nuu chah nulth language revitalization and wild salmon enhancement as examples of critical challenges that must

be addressed through the West Coast’s diverse knowledge skills and experiences.

The application deadline is March 5 and a full run-down of requirements can be found at www.clayoquotbiosphere.org.

The CBT was struck in 2000 with a $12 million endowment from the federal government and has helped fund local projects and initiatives every year since then while managing to grow its bank account to $18 million thanks to savvy investing, donations, and fundraising initiatives.

MP helps design plan to promote salmon From A1

“We here recognize the importance of salmon to our communities but, perhaps, that value isn’t well recognized in Ottawa,” she said.

She said Clayoquot Sound’s salmon populations are “drastically declining.”

Chinook populations hit record lows this year, according to Hutchinson who said the Tranquil Watershed, which has historically supported thousands of Chinook, saw a return of just 64 and added that Josie Osborne the Kennedy Watershed saw zero sockeye return.

“We really need Ottawa to come to the table to not only bring funding and support, but to recognize the importance and the value of salmon to the West Coast way of life, to West Coast culture, to First Nations culture, to our economy and to recognize that value and invest in it for the future,” she said.

“I think the first course of action is really that we want to gain community support and increase awareness of these low stocks and these dwindling salmon populations and really to build momen-

tum so that we can reach out to politicians back east and get their attention before it’s too late.”

Osborne said the roundtable met with Courtenay-Alberni MP Gord Johns last month to hear his ideas around promoting the region’s wild salmon issues to gain Ottawa’s attention.

“This is important. It’s really the very lifeblood of so many people here in Tofino and Clayoquot Sound,” Osborne said. “I know that whales and marine mammals in general are very charismatic but, when it really comes down to culture, history, connection to the ocean, food and the ability to sustain ourselves as people, salmon is the species.”

Johns told the Westerly News he was happy to meet with the roundtable, hear their concerns and help hammer out a strategy.

“What we’ve decided to do is work collectively so we can create a campaign, raise awareness about how serious the situation is and the challenges our fish face,” he said. “We can contribute to the restoration of our fish through stream and salmon restoration and habitat protection and enhancement programs, if we’re given the resources.”

“As far away as we are from Ottawa, we have to go the extra mile.”

– Gord Johns

He said the West Coast’s salmon face “urgent threat,” and that he too was surprised Clayoquot Sound had been snubbed by the federal government, though he added many other communities were blanked as well.

“They had $310 million worth of applications for a $75 million dollar fund and they’ve only rolled out $38 million so far,” he said of the federal government’s Coastal Restoration Fund.

He suggested the Clayoquot Salmon Roundtable is a unique group that could become a significant success story for the federal government.

“It is a region that is definitely working together. That is very rare and really a shining example,” he said.

“For the government to not resource a region that is wanting to walk together through reconciliation with our fish is just tragic. This is an incredibly opportune

time and it’s a missed opportunity for the Government of Canada to not invest now, facing this crisis that we’re having with our fish.”

He said the West Coast, through the roundtable, must collaborate on a unified push for funding.

“As far away as we are from Ottawa, we have to go the extra mile,” he said.

“We have to do everything we can and throw everything at government for them to see us and hear us on our issues.”

Osborne said a key to moving forward will be keeping the conversation on-topic.

“For me, something that is quite important in this is that we try to figure out a road forward where we can have conversations about salmon, and wild salmon in particular, that don’t become mired in some of the hyperbole and rhetoric out there about salmon aquaculture,” she said.

“This is strictly around the quality of salmon habitat and the importance of restoring salmon habitat…That’s certainly not to say that issues like aquaculture or climate change, oceanic conditions and harvesting are not affecting the ability of wild salmon species to survive, but this particular conversation is focused on the habitat.”

A12 Wednesday, February 7, 2018

Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News

GAMES & PUZZLES

www.westerlynews.ca

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

PUZZLE #182110

NORA O’MALLEY PHOTO

FAMILY HONOURED: Kristi and Mark Udell were honoured at last week’s Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce annual general meeting for their contributions to the community. The couple was announced as Ucluelet’s Citizen of the Year during 2017’s Ukee Days festivities in recognition of their support of the local daycare and Volunteer Fire Brigade.

HOROSCOPE ARIES You give everyone the benefit of the doubt, and that’s commendable. Such a positive outlook will serve you and your relationships well.

TAURUS You may do a bunch of sitting around and waiting at work in the days ahead. Stay patient and rest up, as you’ll need energy reserves when things pick up again.

GEMINI You may need to work on communicating with some coworkers.

Mixed messages can lead to delays, so convene a meeting to clear the air.

CANCER In attempt to stay calm, you may be suppressing feelings that really should come to the surface. This may only lead to a blowout later on. Transparency is key.

LEO It may be tempting to put on an overly cheery attitude, even if things are bugging you. Masking your true feelings may lead to miscommunication. Better to keep things honest.

VIRGO Your ego is strong enough to withstand some criticism this week.

Use the feedback to develop an even better version of yourself, which will only benefit you in the long run.

SUDOKU

CLUES DOWN 1. Enrages 2. Capital of Saudi Arabia 3. Uses in an unfair way 4. Cesium 5. Written works 6. Breakfast item 7. Found in showers 8. A way of fractioning 9. Unit of measurement 12. Sailboat 13. Indian goddess 17. For each 19. Farewell 20. Ethnic group of Sierra Leone 21. German industrial city 25. Measures intensity of light 29. Small, faint constellation 31. Promotes enthusiastically 32. Malaysian inhabitant 33. Ancient units of measurement 35. An unspecified period 38. Frame house with up to three stories 41. Lassie is one 43. Martinis have them 44. Rant 45. Famed journalist Tarbell 46. Opening 47. Round Dutch cheese 49. Archaic form of do 56. Once more 57. Registered nurse

THIS WEEKS ANSWER

CLUES ACROSS 1. Plural of be 4. Dress 10. Nothing 11. Relating to apes 12. They protect and serve 14. Swindle 15. Show’s partner 16. Lift 18. Raise up 22. Do something to an excessive degree 23. Occupies 24. Power-driven aircraft 26. Indicates position 27. Matchstick games 28. This and __ 30. No longer here 31. Health insurance 34. Spore-producing receptacle on fern frond 36. Monetary unit 37. Sweet potatoes 39. Tropical Asian plant 40. Guilty or not guilty 41. Carbon dioxide 42. Able to arouse intense feeling 48. Earl’s jurisdiction 50. Omitted 51. Heartbeat 52. Albania capital 53. Fashion accessory 54. Interaction value analysis 55. Symbol of exclusive ownership 56. More promising 58. __ student, learns healing 59. Nonresident doctor 60. Midway between east and southeast

LIBRA A current situation has you feeling a bit pessimistic, Libra. But that outlook can be adjusted by looking into the future. Let upcoming plans restore your sunshine.

SCORPIO This is a good week to discuss an important issue with that special someone. It’s fine to have differing opinions, just be sure to respect each other’s point of view.

SAGITTARIUS Your energy levels may start off very high at the beginning of the week, but they may quickly fizzle out. Roll up your sleeves and try to trudge through.

CAPRICORN Feeling needed this week can quickly recharge your levels of motivation, Capricorn. Helping others is a surefire way to realize personal satisfaction.

AQUARIUS You have an opportunity to further your education by doing some traveling. Don’t let responsibilities at home clip your wings this time around.

PISCES A busy work week is on the horizon, but you are set to make the most of every situation. Your confidence can make a difference.

SU182070

THIS WEEKS SUDOKU ANSWER

Fun By The Numbers 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!

Here’s How It Works: 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!

Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News

www.westerlynews.ca

Wednesday, February 7, 2018 A13

BCClassifieds.com

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Live in Caretaker needed for motel in Delta, BC. Experience preferred, but will train qualified candidate. For detail call (604) 943-2632.

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Looking for a 1 or 2 bedroom condo townhome or cottage in Ucluelet for sale.

If you are considering selling. Managed development preferred and legal to rent nightly with option for owner to use. Waters edge or similar. Contact Chris Private sale for myself for getaway location for the city.

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MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-7683362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES SANDMAN INNS RURAL BC recruiting management couples, both full-time and parttime roles available. Ask us about our great employee perks and accommodation.

Apply on https://sandmanhotels.prevueaps.com

EDUCATION/TRADE SCHOOLS PHARMACY TECHNICIAN TRAINING Online-based 43 wk program incls 8 wk practicum. Regulated Pharmacy Technicians earn $25-$28/hr in hospitals & $20-$27/hr in community pharmacies. Accredited by the Canadian Council for the Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP). www.stenbergcollege.com Toll-Free: 1-866-580-2772

EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION HELP WANTED

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed?

Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com

COUNSELLING IF YOU want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. Alcoholics Anonymous, Ucluelet/Tofino 1800-883-3968.

HEALTH PRODUCTS Get up to $50,000 from the Government of Canada. Do you or someone you know have any of these Conditions?

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LIVESTOCK 23rd Annual Pine Butte Purebred Horned Hereford Bull Sale. February 17th, 1:00 pm at the BC Livestock Kamloops Stockyard *250-573-3939 or www.bclivestock.bc.ca *

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE COLORADO BLUE SPRUCE: $0.99/each for a box of 180 ($178.20). Also full range of tree, shrub, and berry seedlings. Free shipping most of Canada. Growth guarantee. 1866-873-3846 or TreeTime.ca.

Compliance and Security Officer (Security Guard) -Seasonal - Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Ucluelet/Tofino, BC Duties: Providing security and compliance services in Green Point Campground and the day-use areas at the Long Beach Unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve of Canada. This shall be done by informing and educating the public of the regulations and policies that govern user activities in the Park and requesting voluntary compliance with such direction. Non-compliance will be reported to the appropriate authority.

Must Have: Must have a valid BST, OFA1 and Class 5 driver’s license; *Note: Personnel assigned to this location must have accommodations close by (i.e. in Ucluelet or Tofino) OR have access to a trailer or Recreational Vehicle (RV) and a RV site will be provided for no charge.

Please submit your cover letter and resume job to: job.openings@cviy.ca

EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION HELP WANTED

Front Desk Worker Ucluelet Rent-It Centre is hiring a Front Desk Worker t 4PNF DPNQVUFS TLJMMT OFFEFE t 0SHBOJ[BUJPOBM TLJMMT t 4PNF UPPMT BOE FRVJQNFOU LOPXMFEHF t %SJWFST MJDFOTF t "JS CSBLFT XPVME CF BO BTTFU CVU OPU OFDFTTBSZ 1MFBTF ESPQ SFTVNF BU 'PSCFT 3E PS FNBJM uric.ltd@gmail.com trudy.uric@gmail.com

Full Time with Benefits

Hoping to start or further develop your aquaculture career? Cermaq Canada is currently looking for multiple full-time permanent Saltwater Husbandry Technicians to join our saltwater production team. We have opportunities at our sea sites located across Vancouver Island with company provided transportation from various Island communities.

As a Husbandry Technician you’ll play a critical role in growing healthy salmon in a sustainable manner. You’ll spend the majority of your day outside on the water caring for the fish. This role is the perfect opportunity to satisfy your love of the outdoors, expand your husbandry skills, and contribute to local communities through sustainable aquaculture.

Preference will be given to candidates with a diploma or degree in aquaculture.

If you are a team player who is physically fit, enjoy being outside in all weather conditions, and have a passion for sustainable aquaculture, then we want to hear from you!

For more information about this opportunity please visit our careers page at www.cermaq.ca.

To apply, please email your resume and cover letter to careers.canada@ cermaq.com and state “Saltwater Husbandry Technician” in the subject line before before 5:00 PM February 28, 2018.

If a suitable candidate is identified, this position may be filled prior to the closing date.

Cermaq Canada is an equal opportunities employer who provides a workplace that is free of discrimination.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

BE A PART OF THE CLAYOQUOT BIOSPHERE TRUST

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SALTWATER HUSBANDRY TECHNICIANS

CLEANING & SANITATION TECHNICIANS Full Time with Benefits

WE ARE CURRENTLY SEEKING A FULLTIME COMMUNICATION & OFFICE COORDINATOR TO JOIN OUR TEAM As a biosphere region and community foundation, we support the health and vitality of our communities and ecosystems. The successful applicant will help achieve our vision through this key front-line position.

We are seeking an outgoing and organized individual for a long-term office position. The coordinator is responsible for maintaining the day-to-day operations of the CBT and ensuring that the CBT is represented to the region, our board, our partners and our visitors in a professional and friendly manner in all communications.

See our website for more information about this position: http://clayoquotbiosphere.org/ uncategorized/join-our-team/ Please submit your resume and cover letter by 4:00 pm Monday, February 12th to Rebecca Hurwitz at rebecca@clayoquotbiosphere.org

Hoping to start or further develope your aquaculture career? Cermaq Canada is currently looking for multiple full-time permanent Cleaning & Sanitation Technicians to join our Tofino Fish Processing Plant. There is company provided bus transportation available from Port Alberni.

As a Cleaning & Sanitation Technician you’ll have the opportunity to put your keen sense of attention to detail to use doing physical work and playing an important role in helping our high-quality Atlantic salmon get to market.

Your primary responsibility is to ensure that the plant is properly sanitized and meets hygiene regulations by using a pressure washer to clean our equipment and materials.

If you have an exceptional eye for detail and are a team player who is physically fit, then we want to hear from you!

For more information about this opportunity please visit our careers page at www.cermaq.ca.

To apply, please email your resume and cover letter to careers.canada@ cermaq.com and state “Cleaning & Sanitation Technician” in the subject line before 5:00 PM February 28, 2018.

If a suitable candidate is identified, this position may be filled prior to the closing date.

Cermaq Canada is an equal opportunities employer who provides a workplace that is free of discrimination.

A14 Wednesday, February 7, 2018

Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News

www.westerlynews.ca

Alberni RCMP cleared in death of young mom The Independent Investigations Office has cleared Port Alberni RCMP of any involvement in the June 2016 death of an 18-year-old Port Alberni woman who had spent time in the Port Alberni detachment’s jail cells the day before and morning of her death.

Jocelyn Nynah Marsha George, 18, the mother of two toddlers, died of heart failure in hospital at Victoria’s Royal Jubilee Hospital the night of June 24, 2016, following incarceration in Port Alberni.

George had been picked up on June 23 at 7 a.m. for being intoxicated in a public place, then released at 4:23 p.m. At 6 p.m. the same day, the police received a call from a relative of George’s who said she “was shaking and had blue lips, as if she were cold,” according to the IIO report.

The relative attributed part of George’s behaviour, which included hallucinating, to drug use, although George wouldn’t say what she had ingested. After the police arrived, one of two officers called paramedics to assess George before they brought her back to the detachment’s jail cells.

Following a wellness check, paramedics released her into police custody after determining she had no obvious trauma or distress, good blood pressure and a strong pulse. She was brought to cells shortly before shift change at 7 p.m. At that point, one of the officers that had picked George up the second time told the incoming watch commander, only identified in the IIO report as “Officer 1”, that George had not eaten for two days and they should “…push food and fluid.”

The second officer who was with George when she was brought back to cells also passed on a request—this time to a different officer—that George be given food and water outside the normal mealtimes due to her extended period in custody.

Cause of death, according to the IIO report, was drug-induced myocarditis, or inflammation of the heart muscle, due to the toxic effects of methamphetamine and cocaine. “(George’s) minimal food and water intake was specifically ruled out as a contributing factor in the death,” the report noted.

Although the officer in charge failed to check in personally on George, nor follow a suggestion that she be fed more frequently, the IIO director noted “there is no evidence to suggest that inaction on his part caused or otherwise contributed to (George’s) medical condition and death.”

The IIO is a civilian-led organization tasked with investigating police-related incidents involving death or serious harm..

– www.albernivalleynews.com

Five Vancouver Islanders going for gold at Pyeongchang Olympics When 225 Canadians follow the flag into Pyeongchang Olympic Stadium Friday, Vancouver Island will have a particular rooting interest in five of them.

And we can probably thank Mount Washington and the explosion of modern X-Game Olympic sport for that.

Four of five athletes with strong Island ties will be hurling their bodies over the snow in some of the games’ less-traditional disciplines and each of them began their love affair with the slopes on the North Island.

Courtenay snowboarder Spencer

FILE PHOTO

Port Alberni RCMP have been cleared of any involvement in the June 2016 deth of an 18-year-old woman who spend time in the Port Alberni detachment’s jail cells the day and morning before her death.

ISLAND IN BRIEF O’Brien will be competing with Canada’s slopestyle/big air team. Born in Alert Bay, but growing up in Courtenay, O’Brien won slopestyle gold in Aspen in 2016 for her sixth career X Games medal, and gold in 2017 at a Dew Tour event in Breckenridge, Colo.

Another Comox-raised athlete, Cassie Sharpe, will be competing in the freestyle skiing halfpipe event for Team Canada.

Sharpe, 25, who now lives in North Vancouver, won silver at the 2015 FIS World Championships and the her first World Cup gold medal a couple of weeks later in Tignes, France.

Twenty-one-year-old Teal Harle, who was born and raised in Campbell River, is also part of Canada’s freestyle skiing team. Harle, who now lives in Whistler, won gold in slopestyle and big air at the Canada Winter Games in Prince George in 2015.

He competed in his first FIS World Cup event in Silvaplana, Switzerland in March 2015 and two years later stood on the pudium there with is first World Cup medal. Harle claimed a second World Cup victory this year on January 21 at Mammoth Mountain, California.

Comox snowboarder Carle Brenneman, 28, will compete in snowboard cross at the Olympics for Team Canada.

Brenneman has been a member of the national snowboard cross team since 2011 and was an alternate for the team at Sochi 2014. She achieved a career highlight in 2014 when she finished fifth at the Winter X Games in Aspen. In 2009, she made her World Cup debut at Cypress Mountain, competing at the official test event for Vancouver 2010.

Our fifth Olympian is a little more re-

moved from her Island roots, after growing up in Prince George and now living in Germany. But biathlete Megan Tandy was born in Victoria.

— www.vifreedaily.com

Arrest made after alleged threat against Nanaimo mayor The City of Nanaimo has launched an internal investigation following alleged threats made at city hall last week.

The incident, which happened last Wednesday night, resulted in a woman’s arrest after threats were made against the mayor and a city councillor.

Mayor Bill McKay said he received a call from RCMP that night advising him of a death threat.

“The superintendent advised me that there had been an incident at city hall and that there’d been threats uttered against myself and councillor [Diane] Brennan,” said McKay. “I won’t be the first politician that’s had death threats against them, however, you have to consider the source, you have to consider the risk to you.”

RCMP Island District is leading the police investigation and won’t disclose the name of the woman arrested because she hasn’t been charged.

McKay said he couldn’t confirm or deny that it was chief administrative officer Tracy Samra arrested, but she was not in her office on Monday. He is still unsure how last week’s incident would impact the city manager’s position.

– www.nanaimobulletin.com

Volunteer fire department in Mesachie Lake resumes operations The Mesachie Lake Volunteer Fire Department has resumed operations as of Feb. 2.

Jon Lefebure, chairman of the Cowichan Valley Regional District, said

Kevin Smith, a former captain with the fire department, has stepped forward to lead the department as fire chief as a temporary measure.

“Safety remains our top priority for our firefighters and our community,” Lefebure said.

“Following discussions with the firefighters regarding moving forward and resuming operations, we have been able to bring in new leadership to restart fire department operations while a third-party review is conducted.”

Lefebure said the CVRD appreciates the concerns expressed by area residents, the suggestions raised by Mesachie Lake firefighters, and the support of both the Honeymoon Bay Volunteer Fire Department and the Lake Cowichan Volunteer Fire Department at this time.

He said the third-party review is expected to be completed in the spring with a report being provided to the CVRD’s board of directors for its consideration..

– www.cowichanvalleycitizen.com

Brother of ‘Sex and the City’ actress Kim Cattrall found dead Actress Kim Cattrall announced on Twitter Sunday that the search for her missing brother Christopher has come to a sad conclusion.

“It is with great sadness that myself and my family announce the unexpected passing of our son and brother, Chris Cattrall,” wrote Cattrall, who owns a home in the Comox Valley, on her Twitter account.

“At this time we ask for privacy. We want to thank you all on social media for your outpouring of love and support in this trying time.

Chris, who was 55, had gone missing from his home in Lacombe, Alta. on Jan. 30.

The Cattralls lived for portions of their childhood in Courtenay.

– www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News

www.westerlynews.ca

Wednesday, February 7, 2018 A15

C O M M U N I T Y

events

CALENDAR

SURFRIDER PUBLIC MEET UP, Wednesday, Feb. 7. 7-9pm at the Tofino Brewing Co. There will be a discussion about disaster preparedness and about what we can do as individuals and as Surfrider volunteers!

CWFS SPEAKER SERIES, Salmon-fueled Ecosystems of the Pacific Rainforest.

Thursday, Feb. 8. Doors @ 6:30pm, show @ 7, UCC. This talk will explore how this wilderness is affected by interactions between salmon, bears and wolves, including effects of nutrients from salmon on biodiversity. By donation!

COMBERS BEACH CLEAN, Friday, Feb. 9.

1-4pm. Meet at Combers Beach parking lot. A free shuttle is being provided for the beach clean, the shuttle will be picking up participants from Pacific Surf School in Tofino at 12:20PM and 12:30PM at Beaches Grocery. Every beach cleaner who takes the shuttle will also get a free ticket to Plastic China!

DROP-IN VALENTINE’S DAY CARD MAKING, Saturday, Feb. 10.. Noon3pm at Ultramarine Art Supply. Join us for an afternoon of family friendly crafting. Parents attend with children. $10 includes all materials.

events

FAMILY DAY FUN RUN, Monday, Feb. 12. 10am start. Wild Pacific Trail Loop park at Amphitrite Lighthouse Lot.Free Event! Everyone Welcome! In case of inclement weather, please meet at UCC at 10am for a free fitness class. Updates on Facebook.com/ endlessfitness.

ongoing UCLUELET ALANON GROUP Wednesdays, 7:30pm, Catholic Church (use side entrance below), 1663 Peninsula Rd. Ucluelet.

PILATES Mondays and Wednesdays, 6-7pm.

Tofino Community Hall. $10 drop-in.

LIVE MUSIC Wednesdays, 3-6pm The Great Room at Long Beach Lodge.

PICKLEBALL Mon., Wed., Sat., 8am-12pm, Tofino Community Hall. Free.

CHI GONG Wednesdays, 10:3011:30am, UCC Main Hall. $2 drop SOUP LUNCH Thursdays, Noon1:30pm. the Hub, UCC. All welcome! Free.

Follow our Facebook page for upcoming events!

Bowling, Billiards and Arcade!

Open 7 days a week howlersfamilyrestaurant.com (250) 726-2211 • 1992 Peninsula Rd, Ucluelet

Support your

Ucluelet Volunteer Fire Brigade SURFRIDER FUNDRAISER Film event at Tofino Hostel Friday, February 9th at the Tofino Hostel - HI Whalers on the Point. Movie start @ 7pm, Join Surfrider Pacific Rim Fundraiser for a screening of the film a Plastic China. Admission $10 / Cash Only. Tickets include hot chocolate, popcorn and sauna access. Pre-tix available at the Tofino Hostel.

Plastic China is an award winning documentary that addresses equity, waste, and the state of the environment. Audience discussion and guest speaker afterwards.

ongoing

service

BADMINTON Sundays, 7-9pm. USS Gym. $2 drop-in

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH Saturday, 5pm.

DARTS Mondays, 7pm. Tofino Legion

TOFINO BIBLE FELLOWSHIP Sundays, 10:30am.

FOOD BANK Tuesdays, 1-3pm. 160 Seaplane Base, Ucluelet.

ST. COLUMBA CHURCH Sundays, 10:30am.

Job market evolving Central and north Island economic sectors continue their evolution as world trade conditions affect the local economy and people migrate to the region.

Market and political volatility over oil and natural gas production and delivery have all but dashed glowing predictions from just two years ago of a promising new industry with jobs and economic benefits for all of B.C., the Island included.

But, other economic drivers continue to buoy the Island’s economy as people migrate here from across Canada and around the world. In fact, immigration—the majority of which is from other provinces, followed by migration from within B.C. and lastly from foreign countries—has been a primary reason for Island economic growth, according to Nanaimo Economic Development.

Population gains boost economic trade between trade regions, enhance the consumer base for business and expand the skilled workforce needed to attract new businesses. Nanaimo and the central and north Island’s other major economic trade regions have had steady population growth over the past decade. Nanaimo’s population, according to Statistics Canada’s 2016 census, gained eight per cent over 2011 census figures. Nanaimo’s trade area, which includes the Nanaimo Regional District and the town of Ladysmith to the south, now comprises

OPEN TIL MIDNIGHT 7 days a week.

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FEATURED EVENT OF THE WEEK

To submit your activities, e-mail: office@westerlynews.ca, fax: 250-726-4248 or drop by: #102-1801 Bay St, Ucluelet. We accept your Arts & Entertainment, Service Group, Non-Profit Organization, Church, Library, Fundraiser, Open to the Public Notices on a first come, first served basis.

CHRIS BUSH Black Press

We are OPEN FOR LUNCH Wednesday to Sunday!

more than 164,200 people, representing 6.3 per cent growth from 2011 to 2016.

The Alberni-Clayoquot and Comox Strathcona regions trade area grew 3.1 per cent for the same period to more than 142,000 people.

Immigration and real estate investment has spurred a recent boom in residential and commercial construction, a major private-sector employment driver. Retail trade, construction, accommodation and food services, educational services and professional, scientific and technical fields rank in the top six of the top 10 employment sectors in the Nanaimo region, figures that translate throughout the north and central Island’s major population centres, Courtenay-Comox, Nanaimo, Port Alberni and the Cowichan Regional District municipalities, but employment sectors have shifted in the past five years. Health care and social assistance now accounts for 15.1 per cent of all employment in the Vancouver Island Coast Region and is now the region’s largest employment sector, according to Statistics Canada, and the professional scientific and technical trade sector continues its steady climb on the employment as the Island economy continues to expand and diversity.

The Black Press Extreme Education and Career Fair will be at 19 Wing Air Force Base in the Comox Valley on Thursday, Feb. 8. The event will take place at the CFB Comox Military Family Resource Centre from 12-6 p.m.

Take your sweetheart out for

Valentine’s Dinner Wednesday, February 14 Join us at

Matterson House Restaurant

First Seating at 5pm 1682 Peninsula Road, Ucluelet Reservations Required • Please Call 250.726.2200 Enjoy a wonderful evening while the volunteer firefighters serve dinner and help in the kitchen to raise funds for the brigade.

Thanks once again to Jennifer & Sandy at Matterson House for supporting this fundraiser.

TOFINO

COMMUNITIES IN FULL COLOUR PAINT DONATION PROGRAM

is designed to provide local community organizations with free paint to be used towards local community improvements.

The paint donation covers any interior, exterior, primer, stain or specialty coatings required. The program does NOT include applicators, surface preparation or repair products that might be required for a given project.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE The COMMUNTIES IN FULL COLOUR paint donation is available to registered charities, registered non-profits, registered community groups, youth sport and recreation associations, and community improvement associations.

Priority will be given to applications that: • Support projects located within the trading area of the local Co-op • Align with the charitable priorities of the local Co-op • Identify a solution to a community need APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE TOFINO CO-OP HARDWARE STORE. A recipient will be selected by November 30, 2018.

A16 Wednesday, February 7, 2018

Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News

www.westerlynews.ca

Leaders want later Highway 4 closures Governments and businesses say extra hour would help economy ANDREW BAILEY andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca

A $30 million upgrade means closures are coming to the only road between the West Coast and the rest of Vancouver Island and local leaders believe an extra hour of access could make a big difference to the project’s palatability.

B.C.’s Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has unveiled a proposed two-year closure window that includes three schedules depending on the season.

Each schedule contains Dianne St. Jacques daily delays and three closures of two to three hours each night. Concern from local leaders is focused on the first closure each night, which starts at 9 p.m. from March 1 to June 15 and September 15 to March 1.

Between June 15-September 15, that first closure starts an hour later at 10pm.

Ucluelet mayor Dianne St.

Jacques believes pushing the 9 p.m. closures to 10 p.m. all year would help the tourism economy because many visitors, especially ones taking a BC Ferry, arrive at Port Alberni’s side of the highway between 9-10 p.m.

“It’s just an hour. I understand their challenges on the hill, I get that,” she said. “But, at the same time, this is our base economy out here on the Coast. We’re resort municipalities and they need to take that into serious consideration…If it gets too awkward out there, people are going to go somewhere else for their vacation.”

She said Ucluelet has asked for the later closure and is awaiting response from the Ministry.

“They have been receptive so far, but I haven’t seen anything in writing in regards to the change so I’m hoping to see that,” she said. “Not only for our ourselves that live here, because quite often I’m on the road at 9 p.m. at night, but also for our visitors and our economy.”

Tofino’s business community is also pushing for the extra hour, according to the Tofino Long

Wishing you all a safe and HAPPY BC FAMILY DAY!

MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE PHOTO

A 1.5-kilometre stretch of Highway 4 is slated for a $30 million makeover that will take two years to complete.

Beach Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jen Dart.

“The board is contacting the Ministry of Driving and Transportation to express the opinion that the closure should be 10 p.m. year-round in order to reduce confusion for travellers and provide consistency,” Dart told the Westerly News in an email. “As we all know, travellers are coming to the West Coast throughout the year, and the Chamber board wants to ensure those travellers are well informed by eliminating any confusion around timed closures.”

She added the chamber is working with Tofino and Ucluelet’s Destination Marketing Organizations on a communications strategy to ensure visitors are aware of the closure times.

“This project will be important to provide a smoother driving experience to everyone who uses Hwy. 4, but keeping those users in mind over the duration of the two-year project is paramount,” she said. “Also to that end, the Chamber is pleased to be working with Tourism Tofino to help disseminate their communications plan for use by accommo-

dation and tour providers.”

The Ministry wrapped up two public information sessions last week and a spokesperson told the Westerly that the hour-later closure was an oft-brought request from locals.

“Ministry staff, during the open houses, heard this concern from the public,” the spokesperson said adding all feedback received will be reviewed over the next few weeks.

“We’re going to take all the input, have a look at it and make some decisions based on people’s feedback.”

New Patients and Families Welcome!

Dr. Kenneth McCracken

is accepting New Patients at Alberni Valley Dental Centre ( formerly Dr. Harry Sperber). Dr. McCracken is a graduate of the University of Glasgow, Scotland 1989 and has practiced in Canada ever since. He has continued his education at the Misch Institute in Detroit and the Kois Institute in Seattle. He has also attended the Canadian Institute of Implants and e Las Vegas Institute for cosmetic dentistry. In addition, Dr. McCracken has training in orthodontics, conscience sedation, and IV sedation. He enjoys coastal living, golf, boating and fishing.

Our mission here at Alberni Valley Dental is to provide friendly, professional and complete dental services that encourage our patients to take an active role in caring for their teeth and gums. In our warm environment, you will find that our staff are extremely approachable and helpful throughout your entire visit. We offer our patients a wide range of preventative and restorative dental care services including One-Appointment Crowns and Bridges.

Call us today or visit our website to find out more about our dental care services or to book your New Patient Consultation!

Scott Fraser, MLA Mid Island-Pacific Rim

3945B Johnston Rd. Port Alberni V9Y 5N4 1-866-870-4190 scott.fraser.mla@leg.bc.ca

OPEN 8am - 4:30pm • Mon - Thurs 250-724-3381 • www.albernivalleydental.com 101 - 4115 Sixth Ave, Port Alberni, B.C.

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