The Local Weekly - August 13, 2020

THIS WEEK

FREE

CMCA AUDITED

MEMBER OF

Please recycle this newspaper.

WEEKLY COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Volume 19, Issue 32

Sunshine Coast, British Columbia • www.thelocalweekly.ca • Thursday, August 13, 2020 Mandatory Face Masks

Operation Eelgrass

Page 9

Madeira Park Pushes Back Page 3

Ferry Bailout Page 3

COVID-19 Update Page 6

Gibsons Mayor Talks Trees Page 7

What’s Happening Page 8

Boaters Busted Page 9

Look for this insert:

Home Hardware

2018 TACOMA TRD SPORT

LEATHER MOON ROOF 30,921 kms Stk#: 79-023-1

43,990

$

+ $595 ADMIN & TAXES

604.885.3281

www.southcoastford.com

@TheLocalWeekly Please GIVE to the Food Bank

A group of volunteers in Tuwanek placing metal washers on eelgrass shoots. Sandy, at left, Kerry, and Emily bunched them into clusters and then waded out to the dive boat; 800 of the eelgrass shoots were planted on the ocean bottom in nearby Lamb’s Bay by divers, the shoots held down by the washers. This is the fourth year of a five-year federally funded Salish Sea Nearshore Habitat Recovery Project. The objective is to restore nearshore habitats, which include areas on and off shore. Eelgrass stabilizes the ocean floor, diminishes toxins and creates oxygen. Eelgrass is also important for salmon smolts as they head to sea. DIANNE SANFORD PHOTO

Find your new vehicle at our price

604-885-5131

sunshinecoastgm.com 1633 Field Road, Sechelt

SERVICE HOURS Monday – Friday: 8am – 5pm Saturday: Sunday:

Closed Closed

Price $38,743 STK: NK012353

2019 Buick Envision Premium I

Demo, AWD, Pano Roof, Navigation, Summit White

SAVE

11,260

$

Price $52,422 STK: NK114354

2019 Buick Enclave Premium

SAVE

10,489

$

NEW, AWD, 3.6L, Surround Vision, Red Quartz Tintcoat, Experience Buick Package, Moonroof

All sales subject to $599 admin fee, $99 fuel surcharge, and $500 finance fee where applicable. See dealer for complete details.

Experience the EASIEST Service Appointment Let us pick up your vehicle, service and sanitize it, before delivering it back to you.

2

The Local - Thursday, August 13, 2020

THE PERFECT MATCH A Beautiful Clopay Garage Door and Matching Entry Door with a Strong, Silent German Operator.

Rebuilt Sommer Synoris 550 Operators for Sale!

Sommer Evo+

$36300 Now $18150 Full warranty. Limited stock.

NOW SELLING CLOPAY RESIDENTIAL REPLACEMENT ENTRY DOORS! SKYLINK GARAGE DOOR OPERATORS. REG. PRICE: $20000

WE ALSO OFFER INSTALLATION AND REPAIR SERVICES FOR SWING AND SLIDING GATES!

CALL US TODAY 604.741.5231 FOR INFORMATION ON GARAGE DOOR & ENTRY DOOR REPAIR & REPLACEMENT ✓ 30+ YEARS IN BUSINESS ✓ FULLY INSURED ✓ WORKSAFE BC COVERAGE ✓ BUSINESS LICENSE Unit # 123 - 124, 1877 Field Road, Wilson Creek, Open by Appointment

WWW.CANADIANDOORMASTER.COM

The Local - Thursday, August 13, 2020 3

Name change for Madeira Park faces opposition Approximately 300 people have signed a petition opposing the renaming of Madeira Park to “salalus.” Two individuals, who asked not to be identified or photographed, provided details on the effort while collecting signatures at the Madeira Park Shopping Centre on Aug. 6. They indicated that the group of individuals responsible, plan to keep it open for people to sign until Aug. 15.

The petition states that the existing name is an “integral part of our colourful history and remains an honourable tribute to Joe Gonsalves.”

The document says that Gonsalves was one of the early settler-nation residents of the area, his original home being in the Madeira region of Portugal. He purchased and then donated the land

that Madeira Park sits on.

The petition states that he was responsible for much of the community infrastructure that remains in place.

Earlier in 2020, the BC Geographical Names Office announced it was considering changing the community’s name to reflect the word “salalus” from the shíshálh First Nation’s language. The area is within the shíshálh traditional territory.

That office originally set Aug. 31 as the deadline for input from local government on that change as well as the renaming of Wilson Creek in favour of the shíshálh name “ts’ukw’um.” The SCRD Board has requested a deadline extension to Dec. 31 to allow for broader community discussion on the changes.

The Board endorsed asking

the Province to organize an online town hall meeting in consultation with the SCRD, the shíshálh Nation, Pender Harbour and Area Residents Association, Pender Harbour and Egmont Chamber of Commerce, and Pender Harbour Rotary Club to gather public input. Those actions were approved on July 30, and the SCRD has not reported receiving responses to its requests.

The SCRD Board actions were recommended by Pender Harbour/Egmont Area Board Director Leonard Lee. The representatives gathering signatures on Aug. 6 stated that Lee was “well aware” that the petition is being circulated.

Lee told the Local, “I have received approximately 60 emails expressing opposition

to renaming Madeira Park.

These were not solicited by me, as I am hoping that the shíshálh will have an opportunity to explain why they would like to restore traditional names to some geographical features here on the coast, and we can reach agreement on appropriate places to rename – that the majority of our local residents can support.”

Connie Jordison

About 300 people have signed a petition opposing the renaming of Madeira Park to “salalus.” CONNIE JORDISON PHOTO

SUNSHINE COAST & POWELL RIVER FERRY SCHEDULE For schedules, fare info or to reserve 1-888-223-3779 or www.bcferries.com

Schedule in Effect: July 2 to September 7, 2020 Crossing Time: 40 minutes Distance: 10.5 nautical miles

(Vancouver)

(Sunshine Coast)

7:30 am - Daily

6:20 am - Daily

9:50 am - Daily

8:40 am - Daily

12:10 pm - Daily

11:00 am - Daily

2:25 pm - Daily

1:15 pm - Daily

3:15 pm - Fri., Sun. & Sept. 7 only,

3:35 pm - Daily

except Sept. 6

4:20 pm - Fri., Sun. & Sept. 7 only,

4:45 pm - Daily

except Sept. 6

5:30 pm - Fri., Sun. & Sept. 7 only, except Sept. 6

5:55 pm - Daily 6:40 pm - Fri., Sun. & Sept. 7 only,

7:05 pm - Daily

Representatives of the provincial and federal government attended the opening of a pumphouse in the Parkland neighbourhood of Gibsons on Aug. 4. MLA Nicholas Simons, left, and MP Patrick Weiler show off their refillable Gibsons aquifer water bottles that were handed out at the ceremony. Zone 3 switched its water source from the SCRD’s regional water system to the Town’s aquifer, which is expected to reduce reliance on the regional water supply by 95 percent. CONNIE JORDISON PHOTO

Ferry bailout for “affordable” fares The federal and provincial governments have announced that the transit funding envelope of the Safe Restart Agreement will include eligibility for BC Ferries.

Helping communities recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic is a key part of the Safe Restart Agreement. The agreement was announced on July 16, by the federal government.

The provincial government’s decision on how to apply a portion of the federal funding for BC Ferries, along with its own matched funding commitment, will be based on considerations that put the public’s interest first.

This includes ensuring fares remain affordable through the pandemic recovery and essential ferry service is maintained, so the public can continue to access appropriate, safe and reliable transportation to and from coastal communities.

“Ensuring BC Ferries’ eligibility for Safe Restart funding reflects our shared values on the importance of our tran-

sit and ferry systems to the health of BC communities,” said Claire Trevena, BC’s Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “This is another example of the positive relationship we have with the federal government. By working together in response to the impacts of COVID-19, we can ensure essential transportation is available to support a safe restart of the BC economy.”

The provincial government is working closely with BC Ferries and other transportation agencies, such as TransLink and BC Transit, to fully understand the operational and financial challenges resulting from the pandemic before determining what level of relief may be considered. This includes any plans to safely return to pre COVID-19 service levels.

A task force with representation from the provincial government, the BC Ferry Authority board and BC Ferries Services Inc. board is working to ensure that when BC Ferries is ready to bring

forward a comprehensive relief proposal to the Province, all necessary information is made available to support the government’s decision.

“The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be an unprecedented challenge for our province, including our essential transportation agencies,” Trevena said. “As we work towards a funding relief decision, I expect BC Ferries to focus its attention on priority areas of public interest, including restoring service levels, keeping fares affordable and delivering a safe and responsible restart from the pandemic.”

The Province has earmarked up to $1 billion of additional provincial spending targeted to addressing COVID-19 impacts and restart plans of local governments and public transportation services. This funding is conditional on matching federal contributions, with 50-50 cost sharing under Canada’s Safe Restart Agreement.

Submitted

except Sept. 6

9:25 pm - Daily

8:15 pm - Daily

11:30 pm - Daily

10:30 pm - Daily

PLEASE NOTE: All schedules are subject to change without notice.

DUE TO COVID-19, THESE SCHEDULES MAY CHANGE. PLEASE MONITOR SERVICE NOTICES. CHECK ONLINE DAILY FOR ANY LAST MINUTE SAILING CHANGES. www.bcferries.com Crossing Time: 50 minutes Distance: 9.5 nautical miles

Schedule in Effect: July 2 to September 7, 2020 (Sechelt)

(Powell River)

6:35 am - Daily except Sunday

5:40 am - Daily except Sunday

8:25 am - Daily

7:30 am - Daily

10:35 am - Daily

9:25 am - Daily

12:55 pm - Daily

11:45 am - Daily

3:40 pm - Daily

2:30 pm - Daily

6:00 pm - Daily

4:55 pm - Daily

8:05 pm - Daily

7:05 pm - Daily

10:00 pm - Daily

9:00 pm - Daily

Why settle for less?

We are working diligently making sure you get the local news every week.

WE ARE DOUBLE STOCKING OUR NEWSPAPER BOXES! Keep well and follow the advice of our local health authorities.

Produced locally 213-5710 Teredo St., P.O. Box. 494, Sechelt, BC, V0N 3A0 supporting our Phone 604-885-3134 • www.thelocalweekly.ca community!

Guaranteed Distribution!

4

The Local - Thursday, August 13, 2020

Editorial Opinion

Weekly Cartoon

Time for a four-day workweek When we started the David Suzuki Foundation in 1990, we implemented a four-day, 34-hour workweek. Staff consistently say it’s made their lives better, giving them time to rest, pursue other interests, explore nature, volunteer, enjoy the company of family and friends, and so much more.

Life isn’t about making more money so we can keep buying more stuff; it’s about having time to do things that enrich our lives. In the face of multiple crises – pandemic, climate and biodiversity – we need to consider new societal and economic ideas that promote human well-being and help us live within Earth’s limits, rather than endlessly chasing a consumerist dream based on the illusory premise that a finite planet can support endless growth.

A four-day workweek won’t cure society’s woes. In fact, you’d think we’ be down to three days by now, as rapid technological advancement and global trade have upended everything about the way we work since the standard five-day workweek was implemented after the Second World War! Evidence confirms the Foundation’s experience: four-day workweeks are good for employers and employees, boosting employment levels and increasing performance and motivation. They’re also beneficial to health and well-being, resulting in cost savings from reduced sick time. Reduced work hours, flexible schedules and telecommuting can also cut pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Many people have altered their work practices during the pandemic – working from home, often with flexible schedules, using technology for meetings and communication.

Not everyone can or should work from home or alter schedules, but many can.

The four-day week is becoming especially popular as people consider a post-pandemic world. That’s because it works. Utah gave its government workers a four-day workweek from 2007 to 2011 (it ended with a change in government) and concluded it saved $1.8 million in energy costs within the first 10 months and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by about 10,900 tonnes a year.

It’s in part up to the federal government to facilitate this shift in the private sector, as change in the federal public sector is often slow. Municipal governments can also signal the change. Vancouver city workers once had a four-day workweek.

Over the years, it’s taken a lot of sacrifice and hardship to change work practices – from slavery and child labour to 12-hour, seven-day workweeks with few benefits to our current system, another relic of the previous century. It shouldn’t be that difficult this time, as advantages to business and industry are as great as those to individuals and society.

Let’s take the first step to new ways of working by adopting a four-day workweek now! David Suzuki

Letters to the Editor – Opinions Letter irresponsible (Re: “COVID skeptic”, letters, the Local, Aug. 6) I’d like to know why, with all the COVID-19 disinformation out there that you’d publish the misinformed letter from Susan Fletcher.

The scientific community has said that COVID-19 exists. Printing an opposing opinion without any science to back it up is irresponsible. You are doing the community a disservice by doing so.

The science is out there.

Please stick to that.

Robin Atchison, Wilson Creek

Utter nonsense

#213 - 5710 Teredo Street, Sechelt (Teredo Square) PUBLISHER

Susan Attiana

publisher@thelocalweekly.ca

EDITORIAL

John Gibbs

editor@thelocalweekly.ca

P.O. Box 494, Sechelt, BC, V0N 3A0 Phone: 604-885-3134 admin@thelocalweekly.ca www.thelocalweekly.ca Hours Mon. - Fri. 9am - 5pm

Michelle McNeill

Display Advertising Deadline: Monday noon at The Local office.

Email: sales@thelocalweekly.ca

NEWS REPORTER

Classified Advertising Deadline: Monday noon at The Local office.

Email: admin@thelocalweekly.ca

editor@thelocalweekly.ca

Connie Jordison

reporter@thelocalweekly.ca

SALES / MARKETING

sales@thelocalweekly.ca

CLASSIFIED SALES/ SPECIAL FEATURES

Kaytee Johnstone

admin@thelocalweekly.ca

PRODUCTION MANAGER/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Christina Johnstone

Editorial Deadline: Monday 10 a.m. at The Local office.

Email: editor@thelocalweekly.ca THE LOCAL IS LOCALLY OPERATED AND DISTRIBUTED EVERY THURSDAY TO 11,500 HOUSEHOLDS ON THE SUNSHINE COAST BY CANADA POST, (CANADA POST AGREEMENT (#41000012).

FREE OF CHARGE

DISTRIBUTION

AT NEWS STANDS ON WEDNESDAYS THROUGHOUT THE SUNSHINE COAST AND ON BC FERRIES: LANGDALE TO HORSESHOE BAY ROUTE.

cnaustin@telus.net admin@thelocalweekly.ca

SUBSCRIPTIONS $33.35 / 3 mos. in Canada

production@thelocalweekly.ca

Richard Austin

This publication reserves the right to refuse any advertising that it considers to contain false or misleading information or involves unfair or unethical practices. The advertiser agrees that the publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of error in any advertisement beyond the amount paid for such advertisement.

The Local Weekly is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact publisher@thelocalweekly.ca or 1-604885-3134. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the website at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

MEMBER OF

(Re: “COVID skeptic”, letters, the Local, Aug. 6) Baffle Gab is the art of saying something that sounds quite sensible but is utter nonsense. Health Canada cannot answer questions about “isolation of SARS-COV-2” any more than it can prove atoms exist. Labs in China discovered the DNA of COVID-19 and passed it on to labs in other countries, including Canada. Laboratories throughout the world use this information to identify COVID-19 cases.

It is hard enough to convince people to wash their hands, wear a mask and social distance without muddying the waters with more conspiracy theories.

Joan Payne, Sechelt

Half-truths (Addressed to Forests Minister Doug Donaldson and copied to the Local) I recently received a letter from a Ms. Stacey Gould from BC Timber Sales (BCTS). Ms. Gould indicates that you had asked her to respond to the concerns I had raised with you. I was

initially pleased to finally receive an answer to the severe criticisms of BCTS’ new public consultation process that I had raised with you in my letter of March 24. Ms. Gould’s letter however was not written in response to my concerns but was a generic communication full of platitudes sent to all the people who had raised objections to clearcut logging of DL1313. Given that this letter does not include our name in the greeting nor does it address the specific concerns raised in our correspondence with you, we refuse to accept this letter and we respectfully ask you to answer our letter of March 24 in a meaningful way.

The communication from Ms. Gould is not written to address the concerns raised by residents and appears to have been written solely for your benefit and to justify BCTS’ action in trying to clearcut this beautiful forest next to a residential area in Elphinstone. Ms. Gould’s communication is however misleading, containing many half-truths as outlined below.

“Engagement meetings did occur in March 2020 with the Squamish Nation and residents of Reed Road.”

This statement is utterly misleading. A total of five residents were contacted in early March and only two of them from Reed Rd. All other residents were excluded including ourselves, who live adjacent to Reed Rd Forest. In my letter to you I had stated that exclusion of any residents, including downslope of Reed Rd Forest, makes this process completely worthless.

“Starting in 2013, BCTS delayed advertising a timber sale to provide time for the SCRD to pursue options to protect DL1313 but no plan

has been forthcoming. BCTS is now moving forward with harvest planning.”

Another prime example of a misleading statement.

Historically this forest was marked on official maps as Gibsons Watershed Reserve. Importantly, BCTS maps showed DL1313 outside its managed timber supply area until 2012. The forest somehow got incorporated into the BCTS timber supply area in 2013. It is thus a completely phoney statement to say BCTS have delayed advertising since 2013. The fact is, BCTS had moved expediently towards advertising the sale once they had incorporated DL1313, only strong opposition from local governments and residents has put a halt to this!

In this context we repeat the question we have addressed to you before. Who authorized BCTS to incorporate DL1313 into their timber supply area? Was your ministry contacted about this? Was there a discussion with the public, the SCRD or the town of Gibsons, that relies on the aquifer that flows below Reed Road Forest? “the forest types within DL1313 are not unique within the lower Sunshine Coast.”

This statement is wrong.

Unique about Reed Road Forest is that it is situated at the urban-forest inter-

face and is easily accessible.

During the COVID pandemic we have indeed observed a significant increase of visitors.

“A portion of this forest type is permanently protected within local Old Growth Management Areas (OGMAs) that can be found immediately above DL1313.”

OGMA is another “red herring” BCTS likes to use to confuse the issues. OGMAs are areas the timber industry cannot easily harvest as they are hard to access (in contrast to Reed Road Forest) and often are in steep ravines.

We ask you to remove DL1313 from BCTS management. Members of the public are unanimous in their opinion that this forest must be preserved.

Finally, the Sunshine Coast is extremely shortchanged in protected forests. Only three percent of low elevation forests are protected from logging. A proper land use plan with an inventory of 30 percent of protected low elevation forests would allow parties on both sides of the issue to plan long term. It would also remove the stress and anxiety organizations such as BCTS generate with their relentless attacks on any beautiful stand of trees left standing.

Hermann Ziltener, Gibsons

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Letters to the Editor should be sent by e-mail to editor@thelocalweekly.ca. The deadline is Monday at 10am for that week’s paper. Generally, letters should not exceed 300 words. And all letters must be signed, include the writer’s community of residence and (not for publication) telephone number. Letters may be edited for a variety of reasons.

The Local - Thursday, August 13, 2020 5

Big crane for housing modules A 350-tonne crane was employed to lift and stack modules for the School Road Supportive Housing site in Gibsons starting on Aug. 3. Gibsons Councillor David Croal explained that the crane, which required special arrangements to be transported to the Coast aboard BC Ferries, was slated to be working at the site until Aug. 8, causing intermittent road closures in the area of O’Shea and School Roads until that date.

Croal also noted that a larger than normal construction crane was needed for placement of the modules, due to the restricted working space at the site. The modules needed to be lifted over a grove of trees retained adjacent to the property on the O’Shea Road allowance.

There are also a number of overhead wires in the area to be avoided with each lift.

Metric Modular is the primary construction contractor for the BC Housing funded project. It is assembling the 40-unit apartment building designed to accommodate residents of the Coast who are at risk of homelessness.

The development is being built on property owned by

the Town and leased to BC Housing. The Town received the property, which is the former site of the Gibsons RCMP detachment, from the federal government under a program to repurpose surplus properties for initiatives aimed at

reducing homelessness.

RainCity Housing is being contracted by Vancouver Coastal Health to operate and provide programming in the facility, which is slated to open later this year.

Connie Jordison

For All Your FLOORING NEEDS! NEW IN STOCK! Two beautiful colors to choose from.

All the bells and whistles of a luxury plank, without the luxury price!

With having a 1400 FT2 showroom, we are able to practice safe distancing.

WE ARE OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK.

Monday-Friday 9am-5pm • Saturday 10am-4pm

Family Owned & Operated Shannon, Brad & Shelley

A crane was imported to lift and stack modules for the School Road Supportive Housing site in Gibsons. CONNIE JORDISON PHOTO

Sechelt chooses AAP for Ops Centre Saving time and money piqued Sechelt council’s interest in moving directly towards an Alternative Approval Process (AAP) to borrow up to $3 million to build its new Operations Centre.

At its Aug. 5 meeting, council agreed to focus only on AAP requirements – rather than the option of that process or a full referendum in the fall.

This was done in response to Corporate Officer JoAnne Frank’s explanation that a referendum to seek public approval of taking a loan would cost more and take longer than an AAP. She stated that was due to the time and funding requirements needed to recruit staff, secure voting locations and advertise voting information for a referendum.

To proceed with an AAP, council needs to endorse the process. This includes confirming timeframes and the total eligible elector count.

Once the eligible elector number is determined, the threshold for the AAP to be defeated is set at 10 percent

FULLY STOCKED WAREHOUSE

of that total. AAPs must be open for a minimum of 30 days after two notices are provided to the public. Local governments can keep a process open for a longer period.

In an AAP, only those electors who want to object to the borrowing need to make their views known by filing response forms.

The loan is being considered for the completion of a new structure at the existing location of the temporary parks and public works yard, between Dusty and Allen Roads. Director of Finance David Douglas reported that the Request for Proposals process for building construction has closed. A report on the results of that process will be presented to council this fall.

At this point, the District anticipates spending $3.6 million on the building and has approximately $843,000 saved for the construction.

Douglas recommended that a maximum of $3 million be borrowed to allow for unforeseen circumstances but

confirmed the District would only borrow what was needed to complete the project.

Council approved going to tender for the road, sanitary and storm sewer, water servicing, street lighting, and landscaping needs of the new centre. The District is budgeting a maximum of $680,000 for these offsite services. It will be paying those costs, along with an estimated $132,000 for detailed building design costs from its reserves. Douglas confirmed that these bodies of work could be undertaken while borrowing parameters for the structure are still in the public approval process stage.

The Parks and Public Works Departments were relocated and have been in temporary accommodations since 2013. That move was made necessary by the construction of the Water Resource Centre, which took over their long-time location on Ebbtide Street.

Connie Jordison

604.886.9990 739 North Road, Gibsons

www.rugrunners.ca facebook.com/rugrunners.gibsons

w w w. t h e l o c a l w e e k l y. c a

Municipal August 2020 Regular Council Meetings All meetings are held on-line via Zoom and live-streamed to YouTube.

The meeting link and the agendas are available online at sechelt.ca.

The September 2nd meeting can be viewed in person at Seaside Centre. Participants must maintain a 2-meter distance from staff and other participants. Chairs can not be moved.

• Regular Council Meeting: September 2 at 7:00pm.

• Committee of the Whole: September 9 at 3:00pm.

Join the Zoom meeting Citizens are encouraged to watch meetings on YouTube or participate in them via Zoom. At the end of each Council meeting there is an opportunity to ask Council questions about items on the agenda.

Simply click the Zoom link on the Meeting Calendar at Sechelt.ca to join. You can join with audio only. The meeting host will ensure your microphone is muted until you raise your hand (by pressing *9) and then you will be unmuted by the host to ask your question. Meeting hosts will help you to be heard.

If you have questions about how to join call 604-885-1986. If you have questions for Council but don’t want to join the meeting, you can email council@sechelt.ca.

Site of Sechelt’s future Operations Centre off Dusty Rd. CONNIE JORDISON PHOTO

www.sechelt.ca | info @ sechelt.ca | 604-885-1986

6

The Local - Thursday, August 13, 2020

Local

the

COVID-19 UPDATES

Sunshine Coast COVID Physician Task Force Community Update #32 Dear Fellow Sunshine Coast Residents: Perhaps unsurprisingly, we have seen a doubling in the daily number of new COVID-19 cases in BC over the

past two weeks, mostly driven by an outbreak in Kelowna. Although we cannot talk about specific cases or locations due to standing public health policy, COVID-19 case numbers

are rising within our own health region as well. This brings it much closer to home and serves as a good reminder that the pandemic has not gone away. It also reinforces

WATER CONSERVATION REGULATIONS IN EFFECT STAGE 1 NORMAL STAGE 2 MODERATE STAGE 3 ACUTE Sprinklers or soaker hoses are not permitted.

Watering trees, shrubs or flowers with hand held hoses with spray trigger nozzles, hand held containers or micro/drip-irrigation is permitted from 7 am - 8 am or 7 pm - 8 pm any day of the week.

Watering food producing plants and trees with hand held hosed with spray trigger nozzled, hand held containerd or micro/drip-irrigation is permitted anytime.

STAGE 4 SEVERE Ground water sources in Langdale, Soames Point and Granthams Landing will follow Stage 2 water conservation regulations.

Customers on SCRD water from Pender Harbour to Earl’s Cove/Egmont will remain at Stage 1 until further notice.

Thank you for conserving water every day. www.scrd.ca/Sprinkling-Regulations 604-885-6806

Dodge SC

the point that we can’t rely on our early success to provide ongoing protection; we have to keep working together as a community to help prevent a major outbreak here on the Sunshine Coast.

This will not be easy. Unlike other major natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes which wreak their destruction in a matter of seconds or days, pandemics roll out slowly and insidiously. The deadliest pandemic in recorded human history, the bubonic plague, lasted seven years. It is difficult to maintain a high level of vigilance for months, let alone years, but we will have to keep doing this for the foreseeable future.

While progress is being made on a number of vaccines, it will still be at least six months before we have one available, and possibly much longer than that. In the meantime, we will have to rely on good old-fashioned common sense and community-based efforts to successfully prevent COVID-19 from spreading.

Across British Columbia, the recent rise in new infections is being driven mostly by younger people who are more likely to have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. This is consistent with what we are seeing in the United States and elsewhere. While the risk of severe illness and death is lower in young healthy people, the big concern with this pattern of spread is that more widespread infection will eventually cross over to friends, family members and other contacts who are more vulnerable.

Another concern is that a rapid rise in case numbers will start to overwhelm our capacity to detect new infec-

tions and trace contacts in a timely manner. Our Respiratory Assessment Clinic is already operating at full capacity despite recently expanding hours and we need to be careful about protecting our limited resources.

So, what do we need to do to protect our community? It comes down to the basic principles that we have all been hearing for months: 1. Maintain physical distancing with people outside of your household (or your very limited family/friend bubble), and wear a mask whenever you can’t maintain a distance of at least two metres. If you are young and healthy, you are most likely to have minimal or no symptoms with COVID-19 and therefore highest risk for inadvertently spreading infection, so please wear a mask if you are going to be within two metres of anyone outside your bubble.

2. Wash your hands frequently, especially after touching high contact surfaces or spending time in a public area.

3. Do not touch your face (or your mask) unless you have just washed your hands, and make sure you wash your hands after touching your face (or your mask).

4. Avoid large groups if you can, especially indoors. If you do meet up with others, please meet up outside whenever possible, maintain physical distancing, and avoid sharing food with those outside of your close family/friend bubble.

5. Exercise extra caution if you are older, have high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, lung disease or other significant health issues.

If you are worried that you may have been exposed to

COVID-19 after hearing about an outbreak in an area you have visited recently, the dates and locations of COVID-19 public exposures are now online for each health region.

Health Canada has also created COVID Alert, a new app for iOS and Android that will notify you if you have been near anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 (and has the app). It is completely anonymous and does not share your location or any identifying information. It is currently only active in Ontario, but is expected to be launched Canada-wide soon, so not a bad idea to download the app if you are interested in having an extra layer of protection.

If you do develop new cold or flu symptoms (no matter how mild), please stay home and self-isolate until you have been assessed. Do not go to work. Do not go shopping.

Do not meet up with others.

Do call your family doctor or the Respiratory Assessment Clinic (Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 3:30pm) to arrange for further assessment and testing, if indicated. The Respiratory Assessment Clinic can be reached by phone or text at 604-740-1252 or by email at coastrespclinic@ gmail.com .

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

The Sunshine Coast COVID Physician Task Force Dr Jennifer Baxter Dr Ted Krickan Dr Herman Mentz Dr Brian Nelson Dr Daren Spithoff Submitted Aug. 6

EMPLOYEE PRICING ON ALL NEW 2020 JEEP • DODGE • RAM ONLY AT HALEY DODGE! • 0% FOR 84 MONTHS ON NEW RAM 1500 s !

MSRP

MSRP

MSRP

MSRP

MSRP

$91,190

$74,525

$69,945

$105,800

SAVE

SAVE

SAVE

SAVE $6,000

$14,285

Stk#: 8099700

Stk#: 8513640

Stk#: 878600

Stk#: B205820

Stk#: 8129130

$12,331

$7,844

2020 RAM 1500 LIMITED ECO DIESEL

$6,909

2020 RAM 1500 SPORT • 22” WHEELS

$61,145

SAVE

2020 RAM 1500 2020 RAM 3500 • LARAMIE 2020 RAM 1500 • LEVELING KIT LEVELING KIT • 33” TIRES! LEVELING KIT • 35” TIRES! 33” TIRES • NIGHT EDITION

& fees & fees & fees & fees & fees NOW ONLY $78,859! +taxes NOW ONLY $66,681! +taxes NOW ONLY $63,036! +taxes NOW ONLY $99,800! +taxes NOW ONLY $46,860! +taxes *

*

*

*

*

#GETYOURCAMPON WITH HALEY RV! • GREAT IN STOCK SELECTION WITH MORE ARRIVING!

Stk#: TT000130

Stk#: 781710

2021 SALEM 167RB • QUEEN BED +SOFA +HUGE BATH • 3250 LBS

Stk#: TT000270

2018 SANDPIPER • 6 SLIDES FRONT LIVING ROOM

6 CLASS C MOTORHOMES IN STOCK!

Stk#: TT000280

2021 SALEM 282QBXL • QUAD BUNKS • OUTDOOR KITCHEN

2021 SALEM 179DBK • 3500 LBS DBL BUNK • OUTDOOR KITCHEN

SALE PRICE $23,800! +taxes SALE PRICE $78,900! +taxes STARTING AT $36,900! +taxes SALE PRICE $37,900! +taxes SALE PRICE $26,900! +taxes & fees & fees & fees & fees & fees *

AND SOOOOO MUCH MORE!!

1028 Gibsons Way, Gibsons

*

*

604-886-3433 DLR# 40331 *Documentation fee of $597 applies

*

www.haleydodgesc.com

*

The Local - Thursday, August 13, 2020 7

Talk of The Town

Bill Beamish Mayor, Town of Gibsons

We’re taught from a young age about the immeasurable value trees provide. They clean our air, provide wildlife habitat, reduce erosion, and deliver a wealth of mental and physical health benefits through a simple walk in the woods. They’re also a key tool in the fight against climate change, as the ultimate carbon capture and storage machines.

In Gibsons, trees have been top-of-mind lately, with several arboreal initiatives coming forward for Council’s discussion and consideration.

First, the Town is developing an Urban Forest Plan (UFP), to help guide the long-term preservation and management of this critical natural asset. It defines Gibsons’ Urban Forest as every tree within Town boundaries (not just the larger

tracts of forest such as White Tower Park or the Charman Lands) and seeks, among other goals, to change our response to tree-related issues from a reactive position to a proactive position.

The UFP also calls for the development of a Tree Preservation Bylaw, which was drafted and presented to Council in July. The bylaw, which received first and second reading, has three key objectives, including: 1. Identifying tree species that are to be protected within the Town of Gibsons; 2. Recognizing the importance of the tree canopy and the many environmental, economic and social benefits of Urban Forests; and 3. Establishing procedures to preserve the Town’s tree canopy.

Before formal adoption of the proposed bylaw, Council is inviting Gibsons residents to provide feedback via a Virtual Public Hearing scheduled for Monday, Sept. 14 at 5:30pm. More information is available at gibsons.ca/virtual-public-hearings.

In the interim, we ask any Gibsons’ property owners who are considering the removal of a tree to please first visit gibsons.ca/tree-removal or call Town Hall at 604886-2274 to learn whether a tree removal permit is required.

Finally, we are working to establish a “Healing Forest” within White Tower Park and the Charman Creek Ravine. Councillor Croal is spearheading this project, which would see our community dedicate green space as a place for healing, learning, sharing, and reflection about Canada’s history and the legacy of Indian residential schools. First imagined in 2015, in response to the Residential School Truth and Reconciliation Report, Healing Forests already exist in six provinces. A Healing Forest in Gibsons, however, would be BC’s first – and certainly a worthy precedent.

To comment on this, or any other topic, please feel free to email me at mayor@ gibsons.ca.

Solar celebration The Sunshine Coast Community Solar Association (SCCSA) and the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre (SSAC) are pleased to announce that the James Pawley Legacy of a 28-solar panel array on the Sechelt Seniors Activity Cen-

tre roof will be celebrated on Aug. 21, after having been postponed in March due to COVID-19.

The solar panels have been up and running since March, saving money for the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre.

The unveiling event will take place over Zoom at 2pm on Friday, Aug. 21. If you would like to attend virtually, please contact the S.C. Community Solar Association at suncoastcsa@gmail.com to get the Zoom code. Submitted

TONY BROWTON PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

WILSON CREEK RENAMING The BC Geographical Names Office is considering renaming of the Wilson Creek neighbourhood and the renaming of the creek named Wilson Creek to the traditional word for the area and creek: ts’ukw’um.

The shíshálh Nation requested name changes for several geographical features in the shíshálh swiya/Sunshine Coast area. This project is important to the shíshálh Nation to protect and promote shíshálh culture, language, and history across the shíshálh swiya (world, birthplace, lands, “Territory”) and the District of Sechelt Council is pleased to support it.

Due in part to language suppression policies in residential schools, the she shashishalhem (the traditional language spoken by the shíshálh people) has declined in use. For more than 40 years efforts have been made to preserve this important part of the shíshálh culture by encoding the oral language into written form. Learn more about the name and how to pronounce it on the BC Geographical Names website: http://apps.gov.bc.ca/pub/ bcgnws/names/73722.html

www.TonySells.ca

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples offers guidance on cooperative relationships with Indigenous peoples to states, the United Nations, and other international organizations based on the principles of equality, partnership, good faith, and mutual respect. The government of Canada and the government of BC are full supporters of this document.

Check out Tony’s marketing package today on-line at: www.TonySells.ca

This name change is one small but important part of building relationships, cultural awareness and reconciliation.

Tony’s Check outCheck Tony’sout marketing package today on-line at: marketing package www.TonySells.ca today online at:

Check out Tony’s marketing package today CELLon-line at: www.TonySells.ca

www.sechelt.ca | info @ sechelt.ca | 604-885-1986

8

The Local - Thursday, August 13, 2020

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

the

Local

the

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

Sunshine Coast Closets

Thursday, August 13

Synergy

Kitchens & Baths

• Pottery sale, Creek Clayworks, Roberts Creek, 10am-5pm (Thurs-Sun), 604-885-2395

• Joe Stanton live, John Henry’s Marina and Resort, Garden Bay, 4:30-7:30pm

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

Friday, August 14

• Stroke Recovery Association, exercise and support for stroke survivors and family/ caregiver, St. Hilda’s Church, Sechelt, 10am-noon

Synergy Kitchens & Baths Buy Direct from the Manufacturer

Buy Direct from the Manufacturer

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

High End Cabinets at Wholesale Prices

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

• Fountain of Uke ukulele group, Beachcomber Ukes and others, all levels welcome, outside Sechelt Library under canopy, 11:30am-12:30pm, 604-808-0034

Innovative Design

604-741-2389

3D Drawings

Quick Turnaround No Middleman Professional Installation

• The Mix: Art Show, Seaside Centre, Sechelt, 3-7pm (Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm)

604-741-2389

• Brothers in Farms, debuting new album, Roberts Creek Legion lawn, 5-7pm, tickets at rclegionevents.com

sales@sunshinecoastclosets.com www.sunshinecoastclosets.com

THE WAREHOUSE

• Singer Charlotte Wrinch, The Clubhouse Restaurant at Pender Harbour Golf Club, 5-8pm

OPEN 10am - 3pm

Saturday, August 15

bed & bath collections FEATURING THE PERFECT DUVET FOR HOT SUMMER NIGHTS.

We have lightweight wool, down or cotton!

5668 Cowrie Street, Sechelt 604-885-4893

aug 13th th - sept 7

Jayme Chalmers ‘sCulptures from Books’

• Gibsons history walking tour with Dale Peterson, meet at Pioneer Square, 10-11:30am, info 604-886-1424 • Tailgate sale, Gibsons Legion parking lot, 10am-2pm

• FibreShed market day, fresh fleece, FibreShed Studio, Madeira Park, 11am-3pm

• Live Music in the Atrium presents Pulling Strings, Gibsons Public Market, 2:30-4:30pm

simplifying your space

Sat. August 15th & Sun. August 16th

Antiques, Furniture and all kinds of Estate Items 1877 Field Road, Wilson Creek

* COVID safety protocol is in place, MASKS required, plastic payment preferred * HOUSE CONTENTS SALE - Aug. 22/23, Gibsons.

Details with address in next ad.

The Warehouse will not be open.

• Joe Stanton live, Backeddy Pub, Egmont, 4-7pm

www.rightsizingsolutions.ca

• Campfire Shitkickers, Roberts Creek Legion, 4-8pm, tickets at rclegionevents.com • Brothers in Farms, debuting new album, Rockwood Pavilion, Sechelt, 6-8pm, 40 only, ticket info on Facebook

(mixed media)

Coral arrand ‘fasCinating Women’

Sunday, August 16

(oils)

kasia krolikoWska ‘life as illusion’ (digital art)

S PO N S O R S :

OLGA’S

@TheLocalWeekly Please GIVE to the Food Bank

• One-hour historical boat tour of Howe Sound, meet 9:50am Gibsons dock, tickets at RainFlorist on Molly’s Lane (604-786-5793), maximum six, info at 604-886-1424

Everything is Beautiful

• Slow Sundays in the Creek presents Michael Maser (1pm), Clay Hepburn (1:30pm), Kaishan (2pm), Tube Radio (2:30pm), behind the Roberts Creek Library • Sweet Sundays presents Budge Schachte & Karen Graves, Secret Beach Garden Stage, Gibsons, 2-5pm, RSVP 604-362-1280 • The Billy Hillpicker Band, The Clubhouse Restaurant at Pender Harbour Golf Course, 2-5pm

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

2020 the local.indd 1

2020-07-31 4:26:42 PM

Realtors now need to follow a strict COVID-19 protocol when showing houses to clients.

We must have our buyers and sellers sign waivers. Buyers can no longer ride in our cars. There are no more open houses. Masks and gloves need to be worn, and surfaces wiped down after showings are complete.

After doing some research, I’ve decided to make a habit of wearing a mask when I’m out and about doing non-realtor activities as well. While it may not stop me from getting sick, I see wearing a mask as

a polite, courteous thing to do. In my mind, it’s no different than covering my mouth when I cough or sneeze.

I wear a mask because I want people to know that I care about them, that I’m concerned about their health and that I want to protect the people around me.

The Sunshine Coast has one of the oldest demographics in BC. Approximately 30 percent of our population is over the age of 65. An outbreak here would be devastating, and wearing a mask is me doing my part to help prevent that.

If you’ve forgotten to wear one, hopefully, this article will be a gentle reminder. Get your mask and put it beside the door, so you remember to take it with you the next time you leave the house.

Here are how the numbers

finished for July year over year on the Sunshine Coast: • July 2019 saw 81 total sales. Fifty-four of them were single-family detached, and the average price of those homes was $624,536. The average time on the market was 55 days, and the total dollar volume of sales was $50,587,000.

• July 2020 saw 144 total sales. Eighty-three of them were single-family detached houses, and the average price of those homes was $845,329. The average time on market was 47 days, and the total dollar volume of sales was $100,635,350.

In his Aug. 5 article in Business in Vancouver magazine, Frank O’Brien wrote: “In the six months since the COVID-19 pandemic began, home prices on Bowen Island and the Sunshine

Recreational boating has rarely been so popular as this summer; being on a boat with the people in your bubble is a pretty awesome way to social distance. And, with the weather we have had, the sailing has been fun! As a sailor myself, I am happy to know that RCMSAR 14 is there in Gibsons Harbour and can typically respond pretty quickly if I get into difficulty.

And, with the traffic in Shoal Channel and at Plumper Cove, on the weekends especially, I worry about some of the unusual number of novices I see, making mistakes, speeding around, and not wearing PFDs. This year, more than ever, it is important to be safe out there. COVID-19 has been a complicating factor for everyone. It has necessitated development of a complex risk assessment plan for

SAR 14 that has involved specialized training, proper use of PPE, and strict guidelines aimed at avoiding viral transmission during training, missions, and administration. But, these processes can obviously complicate a rescue. Please do your best to keep your local SAR crews, the Coast Guard, and yourself and vessel safe on the water by making smart, careful, and informed decisions when boating and beforehand, when planning.

In the RCMSAR crews, we do a GAR assessment (Green, Amber, and Red). We evaluate weather and vessel conditions, crew health, our mission or goals, and our leadership and team composition. If we have a healthy veteran crew, experienced coxswain, and the boat is in good form, we may go ahead with a challenging mission in poor weather or visibility. The point is, boating decisions balance multiple considerations and should err on the side of caution.

Sometimes, the best boating decision is to leave the boat

tied up. If you do go out, let someone know where you are going and when you’ll be back, and make sure everyone on board has a properly fitting life-jacket or PFD and that they are wearing them.

And then have fun out there!

Marine patrols On Aug. 2, police were conducting marine patrols near Gibsons Harbour and located a small boat with several passengers on board. Police discovered no personal flotation devices on board and a Violation Ticket was issued. Police escorted the boat and passengers back to safety and provided information to the occupants on Marine Safety.

Aug. 1 and 2, Police made joint patrols with Conservation Services which resulted in over a thousand dollars in fines and multiple non-compliance warnings.

Submitted by RCMP

Face masks to be mandatory on buses Starting on Aug. 24, Sunshine Coast residents will be expected to wear a mask whenever they ride the bus.

While face coverings will be mandatory, BC Transit has stated that there will be no enforcement for those who choose not to wear one.

“Across British Columbia, our response to the COVID-19

pandemic has been rooted in public health. Public transit continues to be an essential service that people rely on, and we appreciate the work of our transit operators to keep these services running throughout the pandemic response and recovery,” Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Claire Trevena

Starting on Aug. 24 face masks will be “mandatory” on buses, but there will be no enforcement. PHOTO SUBMITTED

said in a statement.

“Knowing your fellow bus passengers will also be wearing a non-surgical mask or face covering will help boost people’s confidence in choosing transit while contributing to a welcoming and safe environment on our buses.”

According to BC Transit, accommodations will be permitted for children under the age of five and those that cannot wear a face covering for health reasons.

“The implementation of a mandatory mask policy is in response to feedback from our customers. I am pleased to have the support of TransLink, Dr. Bonnie Henry and the Province of BC to implement this policy that will make transit more comfortable for our customers,” said Erinn Pinkerton, BC Transit president and chief executive officer.

Submitted

Coast have increased more than three times higher than in Greater Vancouver, part of a startling recovery that saw July home sales surge 22.3 percent from a month earlier and eclipse the 10-year average for the month.”

We’re seeing strong demand across all segments, but detached houses, lots, and acreages are especially

Tip of the Week: We have rounded an important corner as the waning moon approaches the Leo New Moon on August 18 -19. We should expect a dynamic, dramatic and powerful lunar cycle as the Sun and Moon at 26 Leo closely align with Mercury Leo and they all form a Grand Trine in Fire aspect configuration to Mars at 27 Aries and the Lunar South Node at 27 Sagittarius.

27 Sagittarius is also the degree of the Galactic Center, from our perspective here on earth. It is recognized by many astrologers as representing a ‘spiritually sensitive point’. So, regarding our current reality, it will have the effect of activating the sharing of ‘truths’, since doing so is very much about what Sagittarius symbolizes. However, Mercury in Leo is not such an easy placement and it tends to manifest as ego-centric perspectives. This is a very big issue in the world currently due to such extreme news spin in the media. Buckle-up, this is going to be another wild ride.

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19) These are dramatic times and you are probably making a concerted effort to keep it together on more practical fronts. Positively, you are in the mood for fun, play, and games and, quite possibly, romance too, if the opportunity is available. Yet, home is where your heart is these days and you are happy to huddle in rather than venture afar. Focus to create beautiful moments.

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20) You are in a creative, passionate mood. Whatever else may be said, you are eager to advance your position somehow. This may have as much to do with integrating new perspectives and philosophies into your approach. Above all, you want to feel secure and this extends directly to your family. If breaking through existing beliefs and priorities is what is required, you are in.

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) Some cycles are more creative than others and this is likely to be one of them.

Your focus will be deep and precise and you won’t be so

The Local - Thursday, August 13, 2020 9

popular with buyers under 45. If being locked inside a high-rise with three kids for months on end doesn’t have you yearning for the glory that is a fenced backyard, I don’t know what would.

Commercial real estate is also busy as companies are providing allowances for telecommuting and smaller, decentralized offices.

Vancouverites are finally discovering what we’ve known all along – life is simply better on BC’s beautiful Sunshine Coast.

Tony Browton is an award-winning Realtor who lives and works on BC’s Sunshine Coast.

His weekly blog can be found here http://www.truebluerealty.ca/blog

given to flights of fancy and inspiration alone. So, give yourself space and time to produce something marvelous. If you do not engage your energies, you may feel something is amiss, so this is your cue.

Cancer (Jun 22 – Jul 22) The time has come to establish a more solid base.

Yet, to do so you may have to clear the clutter. Will this clutter be material, physical, mental, emotional or perhaps a bit of all of the above? The time is ripe to take new leads and strides and this includes getting to the bottom of things. Are you as sure about what you know as you could? Trust but verify and demonstrate that you truly are able to think critically.

Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 23) The pioneer in you is getting ignited by this New Moon. If you were born prior to August 18, the activation may occur more fully behind the scenes than if you were born on or after this date. Either way, you will feel inspired to both learn and share new perspectives. Yet feeling as confident as you would like will require some extra effort.

Virgo (Aug 24 – Sep 22) A busy time behind the scenes both continues and increases. Although your focus will be directed to your public and professional life, the actual work will likely be from your office, den, basement, or garage… Your power potential is steadily rising and you are determined to harness it as fully as you can. This is probably requiring a multi-task approach, so trust that.

Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22) Who are your friends and who are not. This will emerge as an important question over the coming weeks. It may include asking if you are a good friend to yourself and the finer implications of what this means. And it will be directed to others, as well. Sometimes, we be-friend people indirectly, like stars, celebrities, and public figures. In any case, to get the best answer, you may have to move beyond fears.

Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21) A window of opportunity to be seen and heard and

to get the respect, attention, and recognition that you feel you deserve and/ or have earned is fast approaching. This can prove to be a big go-ahead time when you can advance your position measurably. If this is your goal, you may have to make extra efforts to avoid scattering your attention and concentrate your focus.

Sagittarius (Nov 22–Dec 21) This grand trine in fire could prove extra opportune for you. It will activate both a playful drive and a spirit of adventure. At worst, you could get overly enthusiastic and come on too strong and over-do it.

So, you may have to reel in your ego a bit, but you won’t really want to. It all comes down to the consequences of doing so and only you can discern that. Temperance!

Capricorn (Dec 22–Jan 19) Some dives are deeper than others and this stands to be one of them. So while others are experiencing ego-inflation issues, you may have to undergo a process of ego-purge. In other words, circumstances may push you to do what you would rather not. Positively, you are ready to do what the situation requires for the sake of realistic expansion of your current status.

Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 19) This Leo cycle will have a powerful and direct impact on your relationships.

Fortunately, there are good indications that things will flow your way. In addition to increased interaction with others, it will also activate rich creative exchanges. You will be happy to enter into cooperatives now as opposed to going it alone.

Positively, the results could prove exponential!

Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20) Some cycles are better suited for work, while others are for play, yet sometimes we enter a cycle that includes a rich synthesis of both and this is one of those.

However you interpret it, the focus now is to ‘bring it home’. This will include some measure of critical thinking woven in with the creative focus. Great works can be realized under such conditions; are you up for such a feat? michael@sunstarastrology.com

@TheLocalWeekly

10

The Local - Thursday, August 13, 2020

admin@thelocalweekly.ca ANNOUNCEMENTS

WANTED

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

WANTED!

THE WAREHOUSE NOW

simplifying your space

OPEN!

Antiques, Furniture, Estates SEE AD ON PAGE 8 FOR FULL DETAILS.

ATTENTION

INVENTORS! Ideas wanted!

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

Limited availability. Ryan 604-886-3552

NOTICES

Call Davison today!

1.800.218.2909 or visit us at inventing.davison.com/BC

Old Weapons, Hunting & Military Items In Any Condition.

Ph: 604-740-6474 Top Cash Paid!

Free inventor’s guide!

Motorhomes Travel Trailers Camper Vans

604-886-7341

PICK ONE UP DIDN’T GET YOUR AT THE FOLLOWING PAPER, OR SC LOCATIONS FROM HOMES & DECOR OUR GREEN BOXES: MAGAZINE OR ✓ IGA Gibsons SC BUSINESS ✓ Fields Store Gibsons Post Office MAGAZINE? ✓ Gibsons Roberts Creek General Store

Get $ CASH $ today and I’ll take it away. w w w. t h e l o c a l we e k l y. c a

EMPLOYMENT w w w. t h e l o c a l we e k l y. c a

LOST Lost Sunglasses. High sentimental value! These sunglasses have traveled around the world with me for nearly 25 years. They are mountaineering MEC glasses, black, polarized glasses, black leather side-shields, and yellow-green rope necklace. They were lost on August 3 around 7pm at trail to Soames Beach. Please contact the owner at 604-897-7638.

EMPLOYMENT

NOW HIRING!

✓ At the LOCAL office:

#213 - 5710 Teredo St.

Gibsons Building Supplies Ltd. is looking to hire:

- Egmont Post Office

SERVICE DIRECTORY

TWO employees for the yard

(must have ‘L’ license) and TWO sales staff.

Wage will be discussed at time of interview.

✓ ✓ Big Mac’s Sechelt ✓ Sechelt Public Library ✓ Teredo Square ✓ Pier 17 - Davis Bay ✓ Halfmoon Bay General Store ✓ Earls Cove Ferry ✓ Canada Post Garden Bay ✓ Painted Boat Resort ✓ IGA Madeira Park ✓ Pender Harbour Petro Canada ✓ Welcome Woods General Store ✓ Bathgates General Store

PRO PAINTER CUSTOM HOMES & RENOVATIONS Interior ~ Exterior Professional Painter

WWW.GIBSONSBUILDING.COM

604.886.1804

GIBSONS: 604-886-8141 924 Sunshine Coast Hwy

EMPLOYMENT

Print and Digital Editor

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

604-885-0661 FREE EST. ~ WCB

The Columbia Valley Pioneer is looking for a full-time Print and Digital Editor for our news operation based in Invermere. We operate a daily news site - columbiavalleypioneer.com, and a weekly community newspaper serving ten communities in the Upper Columbia Valley. We also publish various speciality magazines produced on an annual basis.

The successful candidate works well in a team setting, but is selfmotivated. At present we have a staff of three in the newsroom plus various contributors. The magazines are typically produced by freelance contractors, but the magazine work has been significantly curtailed by the COVID-19 situation.

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

• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.

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

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

• Experience in InDesign, Photoshop, and posting to social media.

Interested candidates should forward their resume to: rdoull@aberdeenpublishing.com

N E W S PA P E R

The company offers competitive benefit and pension plans. The position is based in our office at 1008, 8th Ave Invermere, B.C. Applications must be received by the close of business on August 14.

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

AD DEADLINE NOON MONDAY AT THE OFFICE

@TheLocalWeekly

BC COMMUNITY SERVICES

GET RESULTS!

Reach almost 2 million people in 95 papers for only $395/week for a 25-word text ad, or $995/week for a formatted display ad

bccommunitynews.com/ advertise 1-866-669-9222 Book by province or whole country and save over 85%!

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

25¢ each additional word

The Local - Thursday, August 13, 2020 11

HERE TO SERVE YOU DIAMOND BUYER

CONSTRUCTION / RENOVATIONS

Progress GROUP

• • • •

Renovations | Construction | Workforce

www.makeprogress.ca

604-740-6474

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

• • • • •

Window Washing Gutter Cleaning Roof Demossing Siding Scrub Power Washing

• Floor Stripping & Waxing • Construction Clean-Up • Commercial Cleaning • Residential Cleaning

Diamonds Jewelry Watches Gold

BUYER

Call or Text - 778.227.9212

Coastal BC Property Maintenance, LTD.

PLUMBING / HEATING SERVICES

GENERAL SERVICES

WINDOW COVERINGS

THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS!

BLIND AMBITION Window Coverings Ltd. MOBILE SERVICE

Contact Kaytee today to reserve your spot!

blindambitionmobile@gmail.com

604-840-1478

Cell: 778-918-7910 Office: 604-885-3134 Email: admin@thelocalweekly.ca

Call LEO now for free estimates

CALL 778-918-7910 TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT! Buy 3 months and get the 4th month free!

Best rates in town. We beat any price!

ACROSS

•

SECURE • SAFE • AFFORDABLE

5621 Inlet Ave, Sechelt 604-885-3460 • www.belmarselfstorage.com

Welcome to our team!

Meet the newest member of the Local’s team, Michelle MacNeill, who has taken over the role of news editor from the retiring John Gibbs.

Michelle began her media career as a radio broadcaster, working her way up from community reporter to talk show producer and news director.

After a brief stint in television, she returned to school and found her way over to the world of print media. While pursuing her undergraduate degree at UBC, Michelle worked as a reporter at the independent student-run paper, The Ubyssey.

Upon graduation, she moved to London, England, to complete her master’s degree in print and on- Michelle MacNeill line journalism at the University of London, inNews Editor terning at The Independent and The Times. Since then, she has been freelancing as a researcher, writer and editor.

Michelle resides in Gibsons with her spouse and two cats. In her spare time, she loves to travel, write fiction, and putter in her garden. She inherited several grapevines and continues in the struggle to produce a drinkable bottle of wine.

You can reach Michelle at editor@thelocalweekly.ca. She is looking forward to meeting you at some time in the future.

1. Exchange 5. Principle ingredient of a mixture 9. Ray of light 13. Root vegetable 14. Caper 16. Motor vehicle 17. Divisible by two 18. Prepared 19. Harvest 20. Juicy fruit 22. Small bird 23. Residence 24. Pelvis 26. Move upward 28. Trophy 33. Abdominal pain 36. Evergreen tree 37. Test 39. Wanderer 41. Affirm 43. Mistake 45. Speed competition 46. Force back 48. Arm joint 50. Fuel 51. Male singing voice 53. Class annual 55. Pitcher 57. Nothing 58. Render a melody 61. Field game 64. Very drunk 68. Notion 69. Overhead 71. Merriment 72. Happy 73. Warble 74. Provide a cure for

75. In this place 76. Limited period of time 77. Lofty DOWN

1. Pace 2. Breaker 3. Region 4. Blanket-like cloak 5. Saloon 6. Afresh 7. Celestial body 8. Type of duck 9. Unmarried man 10. European currency 11. Particle 12. Be apathetic

15. Detractor 21. Part of a sword 25. Whittle 27. Male offspring 28. A great distance 29. Catlike mammal 30. Small thin pancake 31. Dreadful 32. Before time 34. Adult insect after metamorphosis 35. Chocolate tree 38. Part of the ear 40. Writing table 42. Rebel

44. Type of horse coat 47. Noise, characteristic of bovines 49. Legal document 52. Refund 54. Plant disease 56. Automaton 58. Exhale audibly 59. Not in use 60. Close 62. Valuable ore deposit 63. Ended 65. Supplication 66. Marine mammal 67. Shout 70. Deciduous tree

Solution page 10 Courtesy of: puzzlechoice.com

Your first choice in foods

A

@TheLocalWeekly

69

ND

D NE

Trail Bay Centre • 5755 Cowrie Street, Sechelt • Meat & Deli 604-885-9812 • Produce & Floral 604-885-9841 • Bakery 604-885-9823 • Office 604-885-2025

CALLY OW LO

YEARS

of service

E

D

•

100%

Brand new units 24 hour access • 7 days a week

CROSSWORD

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

O P E R AT

12

The Local - Thursday, August 13, 2020

GIBSONS PARK PLAZA

1100 SUNSHINE COAST HWY #110

604-886-0102

1-800-584-0102

ANNIVERSARY 0 Sale Locally Owned & Operated for over 20 Years!

Hours: Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm, Sunday: 11am-4pm

th

2

Celebrating 20 Years on the Sunshine Coast

CELEBRATE ALL MONTH LONG WITH SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY PRICING!

Coastal Dreams Plush or Mountain High Firm

Exclusive

Mattress by

TO DREAMLAND

Pocket Coil featuring Natural Latex foam and Natural Hemp fabric for a peaceful, healthy sleep.

TWIN ............. Reg. $1,589 ..........$799!

TWIN XL ...... Reg. $1,698 ..........$849!

DOUBLE ..... Reg. $1,698 ..........$849!

QUEEN ........ Reg. $1,798 ..........$899!

KING.............. Reg. $2,598 ......$1,299!

SAVE 50%!

Check out our

BEDDING SALE!

Discounts up to 40%

BEST PRICES GUARANTEED! There’s There’s aa

OFF!!

for for everybody everybody

TEMPUR-SENSE TEMPUR-SENSE SOFT 10" PROFILE SOFT 10" PROFILE Premium Fabric Cover

Premium Fabric Cover Super-Stretch cover with moisture wicking fibres to Super-Stretch cover with moisture wicking fibres to draw moisture away from the body to help keep draw moisture away from the body to help keep sleepers dry and comfortable. sleepers dry and comfortable.

TEMPUR-ES®® Comfort Layer TEMPUR-ES Comfort Layer Slip into a cushioning sleep with softer top layers of Slip into a cushioning sleep with softer top layers of TEMPUR material.

TEMPUR material.

Base Layer Base Layer Serves as the support core for the TEMPUR® layers

Serves as the support core for the TEMPUR® layers and helps disperse the heat from the mattress. and helps disperse the heat from the mattress.

1499

QUEEN SENSE-SOFT MATTRESS

*O.A.C on all Furniture and Mattresses EXCLUDING CASH & CARRY ITEMS, CLEAR-OUTS, PRICE BUSTERS AND APPLIANCES. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. Prices shown are for selected fabrics. *O.A.C on all Furniture and Mattresses CASH & CARRY ITEMS, CLEAR-OUTS, PRICE BUSTERS AND APPLIANCES. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. Prices shown are for selected fabrics.

An administration fee, taxes, & delivery EXCLUDING charge fee may be due at time of purchase.

See store for details.

An fee,Ataxes, & delivery charge fee at timetoofyour purchase.

See store to forcertain details.co nditions. Financing provided by Fairstone Financial Inc. and is subject to all the terms and conditions in your cardholder agreement *Onadministration approved credit. $21 annual membership feemay maybebedue charged Account subject *On the approved credit. A $21plan annual membership fee may be charged your Account subject to certaincharges co nditions.

Financing provided by from Fairstone Financial Inc. andcredit is subject to all theperiod termsof and in your cardholder agreement and credit promotional disclosure statement (collectively theto “Account Agreement”).

Finance will accrue on the purchase the beginning of the promotional theconditions No Interest, No Payments until 2021, but and the creditpayments promotional plan disclosure statement (collectivelyperiod. the “Account Agreement”).

Finance charges accrue on expiration the purchase from the credit beginning of the credit promotional period of the NoCharges Interest,will Nobe Payments untilno 2021, but no minimum will be due during the credit promotional However, if you pay the purchase pricewill in full by the date of the promotional period, all of the accrued Finance waived and Finance no minimum payments be due during the credit period.

However, if you theby purchase price indate full by date of the creditallpromotional period, all ofCharges the accrued Finance Charges be waived and no Finance charges assessed on thewill purchase.

Otherwise, if you promotional choose to not pay the purchase pricepay in full the expiration of the the expiration credit promotional period, of the accrued Finance will be assessed at thatwill time. charges assessed the purchase.

Otherwise, if you not pay the price by the expiration plan), date ofthe thestandard credit promotional period, the accrued Finance Charges assessed at that time.balances owing. The On termination oron expiry of the credit promotion planchoose (or for to purchases thatpurchase are not part of in thefullcredit promotional APR of 29.99% and all theofterms of the regular credit plan will will be apply to all outstanding On or and expiry of the credit promotion plan (or for that are not part of and the credit plan), APR promotions of 29.99% and the terms of the regular credit plan will apply all outstanding The offertermination is valid up to including October 31, 2019, cannot bepurchases used for previous purchases cannotpromotional be combined withthe anystandard other offers, or special incentive programs.

Certain terms andtoconditions apply. balances See storeowing. and account offer is validfor upfurther to andinformation. including October 31, 2019, cannot be used for previous purchases and cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions or special incentive programs. Certain terms and conditions apply. See store and account agreement

DRSG SG 19 19 OCT_BP OCT_BP Temp Temp

$

STARTING AT