The Local Weekly Mar 19, 2020

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Volume 18, Issue 11

Sunshine Coast, British Columbia • www.thelocalweekly.ca • Thursday, March 19, 2020 Kim Darwin Runs For Green Party Leader

SPRING-20

Page 5

COVID-19 Cases On The Coast Page 3

Stay In Your Car On The Ferry Page 5

Cancelled, Closed Page 5

Shíshálh Highway Signs Page 6

SCRD Tax Increase Page 7

Grow Tomatoes Page 13

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The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020

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The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020 3

COVID-19 on the Coast: doctors Dear Fellow Sunshine Coast Residents: We are a group of Sunshine Coast physicians who are acting on behalf of our local physician group to share the most current information regarding COVID-19 on the Coast and to promote community-based measures to prevent infection and limit spread of COVID-19 in our community Thank you to all of you who have been doing your part by staying home, washing your hands and practicing social distancing. As you are probably now aware, we do have confirmed travel-related COVID-19 cases on the lower Sunshine Coast. We were unable to confirm this previously due to Public Health policy. We are happy to report that the affected patients are recovering well in self-isolation at home, but this does reflect the reality that COVID-19 is here and that we need to be taking every possible precaution to ensure that it is contained. While we are not aware (as of March 17) of any community spread of COVID-19 (meaning newly identified COVID-19 cases that are not related to travel and are not linked to any known

COVID-19 cases), we should all be acting as though COVID-19 is here and spreading in our community. Please do not leave your home unless you have an essential reason to do so (walks outside with appropriate social distancing are still encouraged). Essential reasons would include an acute medical concern that requires immediate medical care or you provide an essential service to the community. Although there are currently no patients with COVID-19 admitted to Sechelt Hospital, we continue to prepare and plan for the potentially difficult situation we may be facing in a very short time. If you should develop any upper respiratory tract symptoms that could represent COVID-19, please self-isolate immediately for 14 days from the onset of symptoms. As COVID-19 symptoms can be very mild for many people, please have a very low threshold for self isolation. Even something as small as a new runny nose qualifies. If you need to self-isolate, you should arrange for other household members to stay elsewhere if possible. “If you need to share a home, stay and sleep in a room with good

airflow that is away from others. Use a separate bathroom if you can. Wear a face mask (surgical/procedure mask) if you are in the same room with anyone”. (http://www. bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19 ). If your day-to-day life has not been significantly impacted and restricted to date, then you are not doing enough to protect yourself or those around you. If you believe that your symptoms are severe enough to warrant assessment by a physician, please call the BC COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-COVID19, or contact your local physicians office. You can also use the new online self-assessment tool at https://covid19.thrive. health. If you feel you may need to be hospitalized for more severe symptoms, please call 911 if you require ambulance transport, or call ahead to Sechelt Hospital at 604-885-2224 so that the appropriate precautions can be made to protect healthcare workers and fellow patients. The Sunshine Coast COVID Physician Task Force, Dr. Jennifer Baxter Dr. Ted Krickan Dr. Herman Mentz Dr. Brian Nelson Dr. Daren Spithoff

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We want to say how proud we are of our community and our collective response around COVID-19. Before being asked, many groups and organizations stepped up to voluntarily cancel events. Others have reached out directly neighbour to neighbour in support of those who are self-isolating or considering self-isolating. Viewing this spontaneous level of caring is heartwarming. Locally, our grocery stores and pharmacies are working

Isolated Among those in self-isolation for 14 days are Sechelt Mayor Darnelda Siegers, after returning from a holiday, and Gibsons CAO Emanuel Machado, who is working from home after returning from South Africa. Staff

hard to ensure we continue to have much needed supplies at hand. When shopping, please do not buy more than what you need. If you see someone buying a large quantity, assume they are shopping for multiple homes or families, because they probably are. That’s who we are. We know our region is not alone in dealing with this outbreak. According to the latest information from Vancouver Coastal Health, all regions of the Health Authority’s jurisdiction have seen at least one case of COVID-19. Please, support local businesses as we enter some difficult times. Our small businesses need our business very much right now. Please check on your friends and neighbours from vulnerable parts of our population and help them with any needs they have. Not everyone has access to the internet and helpful information. Some

may be afraid. Ask what you can do to help. Pick up groceries? Pick up medication? Take their dog for a walk? Babysit for a few hours? Moving forward, as governments, we are working together finalizing processes to ensure we maintain essential services. Water, garbage collection, and sewer services will continue to be manned and operated. However, other non-essential services will be scaled back. Staff will be working from home as much as possible. We ask that, if you need to do business with us, you conduct your business either by phone or email to assist us in protecting the health of our staff so they can continue to support you. Lori Pratt, Chair, Sunshine Coast Regional District Darnelda Siegers, Mayor, District of Sechelt Bill Beamish, Mayor, Gibsons Warren Paull, Chief, shíshálh Nation

2 99

/ FT / FT Please Please Note: Note: At At Langdale, Langdale, ticket ticket sales sales endend fivefive minutes minutes before before thethe scheduled scheduled sailing sailing time time forfor vehicles vehicles andand walk-on walk-on passengers. passengers. At At Horseshoe Horseshoe BayBay only, only, ticket ticket sales sales forfor vehicles vehicles andand walk-on walk-on passengers passengers endend tenten minutes minutes before before thethe scheduled scheduled sailing sailing time. time. 2

2

Family Owned Langdale/Vancouver Langdale/Vancouver andand Powell Powell River/Sechelt River/Sechelt Peninsula Peninsula areare notnot guaranteed guaranteed to to connect. connect. Please Please plan plan your your travels travels accordingly. accordingly. & Operated

Crossing CrossingTime: Time:4040Minutes Minutes September September5 5- October - October9,9,2017 2017

Shannon, Brad & Shelley

LEAVE LEAVEHORSESHOE HORSESHOEBAY BAY LEAVE LEAVELANGDALE LANGDALE 7:25 7:25amam 6:20amam 6:20 www.rugrunners.ca Sechelt Sechelt Peninsula Peninsula Powell Powell River 9:40 9:40amam 8:30 am 8:30 amRiver facebook.com/rugrunners.gibsons 739 North Road, Gibsons 12:00 12:00 pm pm 10:50amam 10:50 (Earls (Earls Cove) Cove) - (Saltery - (Saltery Bay) Bay) 1:30 1:30pm pmSunSun 1:05pm pm 1:05 except except OctOct 88 Please Please Note: Note: Ticket sales sales andand loading loading endend fivefive minutes minutes before before thethe scheduled scheduled sailing time forfor vehicles vehicles 2:40 pm 2:40 pm 2:15 2:15 pm pmTicket Sun Sun except except OctOct 8 sailing 8 time Sunshine Coast and and and walk-on walk-on passengers. passengers. 3:55 3:55 pm pmOctOct 9 9 6, 2016 - January 2, 2017 3:25 3:25pm pm September 5:00 5:00 pm pmOctRiver 4:30 4:30pm Oct 9 99090 Langdale Langdale topm to Earls Earls Cove Cove terminal terminal is 84 is 84 kmkm (52mi), (52mi), plan plan on on approximately approximately minutes minutes driving driving time. time. Powell Schedules 5:50 5:50 pm pm Mon-Fri, Mon-Fri, except except Oct Oct 9 9 5:30 5:30 pm pm Powell Powell River River to to Saltery Saltery BayBay is 34 is 34 kmkm (22mi), (22mi), plan plan onon approximately approximately 4040 minutes minutes driving driving time. time. FALL/WINTER Schedules in Effect: October 15, 2019 to except March 31, 2020 7:00 7:00 pm pm 6:35 6:35 pm pm Mon-Fri, Mon-Fri, except Oct Oct 9 9 Langdale/Vancouver Langdale/Vancouver andand Powell Powell River/Sechelt River/Sechelt Peninsula Peninsula areare notnot guaranteed guaranteed to to connect, connect, please please plan plan 8:40 8:40 pm pm 7:35 7:35pm pmFor schedules, fare info or to reserve Schedules subject your your travels travels accordingly. accordingly.to change without notice. 10:35 10:35 pm pmdaily for any last minute sailing changes. 9:40 9:40pm pm1-888-223-3779 or www.bcferries.com Check online Please Please Note: Note: Fares Fares collected collected at at Saltery Saltery BayBay only. only.

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October October 10, 10, 2017 -Minutes January -Minutes January 2018 2018 Crossing Crossing Time: Time: 5050 (Gibsons) -2017 (Horseshoe Bay) 1,1, The message seems pretty clear, whether the source is religious or secular: wash your hands. At left is the sign outside the Living Faith Lutheran Church in Davis Bay; at the right, the Raven’s Cry Theatre in Sechelt. JANE COVERNTON PHOTOS

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Crossing Time: 40 minutes Distance: 10.5 nautical miles

PleaseHORSESHOE Note: At Langdale, ticketing will end five minutes before theLEAVE scheduled sailing time for vehicles (Sunshine Coast) (Vancouver) LEAVE BAY LEAVE HORSESHOE BAY LEAVE LANGDALE LANGDALE September September 5 5 October 9, 9, 2017 2017 and walk-on passengers. AtOctober Horseshoe Bay only, ticket sales for vehicles and walk-on passengers will 7:30 amam Daily except Dec. 25 &1 Jan. 1 6:20 am except Dec. 25 7:20 7:20 6:20 6:20 amamDaily Except Except Decthe Dec 25scheduled 25 & Jan & Jan 1sailing Except Except DecDec 2525 & Jan & Jan 1 &1 Jan. 1 end tenam minutes before time. 9:45 am 8:40 am Daily Daily LEAVE LEAVE EARLS EARLS COVE COVE LEAVE LEAVE SALTERY SALTERY BAY BAY 9:25 9:25amam and Powell River/Sechelt Peninsula are not guaranteed 8:25 8:25 am Please plan Langdale/Vancouver toam connect. 11:55 am 10:50 am Daily your travels accordingly. 11:30 11:30 10:25 10:25 5:35 5:35amamExcept 6:30 6:30 amamDaily Except Except SunSun Except SunSun 2:10 pm Daily 1:05 pm Daily Crossing 1:35 1:35 pm pm 12:35 12:35 pm pm 7:25 7:25 am am 8:25 8:25 am amTime: 40 Minutes 3:15 pm Daily 2:40 pm Dec. 23 & 26-27 only 3:50 3:50 pm pm 2:45 2:45 pm pm 9:25 9:25 am am 10:25 10:25 am am September 3:50 pm Dec. 23 & 26-27 only 4:20 pm Daily6 - October 10, 2016 5:50 5:50 pm 4:50 4:50 pm pm 11:45 11:45 am am 12:55 12:55 pm LEAVE LEAVE HORSESHOE 5:25 pmBAYDaily 5:30 pm LANGDALE Daily 7:50 7:50 pm 6:50 pm pm 2:05 2:05 3:15 3:15 pm 7:20 am 6:50 6:20 amDaily 6:40 pm Daily 7:50 pm 9:25 am 8:25 am 9:45 9:45 pm pm 8:45 8:45 pm 4:30 4:30 5:35 5:35 10:55 pm Daily 8:55 pmpm Daily 11:30 am 10:25 am 6:40 6:40 pm pm 7:40 7:40 pm pm 1:35 pm 12:35 pm schedules are subject to change without notice. PLEASE NOTE: All pm Sep8:35 2:45 pm 9,8:35 16, 23 pmpm sailing changes. 9:35 9:35 pm pm Check online daily 2:10 for any last minute

3:15 pm Sep 9, 16, 23 3:50 pm 4:20 pm Sep 11, 18, 25 4:50 pm Crossing Time: 50 minutes Powell 5:25 pm SepRiver 11, 18, 25 - Sechelt Peninsula 5:50 pm Distance: 9.5 nautical miles October October 10, 10, 2017 2017 January January 1, 1, 2018 2018 (Saltery 7:50 pm 6:50 pm Bay) - (Earls Cove) 8:30 pm Oct 10 8:45 pm Langdale toEARLS Earls terminal is 84 km (52mi), plan on9:45 approximately 90 minutes driving time. BAY (Sechelt) (Powell River) SALTERY LEAVE COVE LEAVE COVE LEAVE SALTERY BAY 9:35EARLS pm Oct 10Cove pm LEAVE Powell River to Saltery Bay is 34 km (22mi), plan on approximately 40 minutes driving time. 6:35 am Daily except Sun. and Dec. 25 & Jan. 1 5:40 am Daily except Sun. and Dec. 25 & Jan. 1 6:30 6:30amam11Except Except Sun,Sun, & Dec & Dec 25,25, JanJan 1 1Peninsula are not guaranteed 5:35 5:35 amExcept Except Sun,plan Sun, & Dec & Dec 25,25, JanJan 11 Langdale/Vancouver and Powell River/Sechelt toam connect, please October 8:25 am 7:30 am Daily- December 21, 2016 Daily your travels accordingly. 7:25 7:25am am 8:25 8:25amam LEAVE LANGDALE LEAVE HORSESHOE BAYDaily 10:25 9:25 am Daily Ticketam sales and loading end three minutes before the scheduled sailing time foram vehicles and five 9:25 9:25 10:25 10:25 am am 6:20 amwalk-on 7:20 am 11:20 am am 12:25 pmfor Daily passengers. Daily minutes 8:20 am 9:20 am 11:20 11:20amam 12:20 12:20 pmpm 4:55 pmNote: Please Fares collected at Saltery Bay only. 10:20 amDaily 11:20 am 3:50 pm Daily 3:50 3:50pmpm 4:55 4:55 pm pm 7:00 pm 12:20 pmDaily 1:20 pm 6:00 pm Daily Crossing Time: 50 Minutes 5:55 5:55 pmpmDaily 6:55 6:55 pm pm 2:30 pm 3:30 pm 7:55 pm 8:50 pm Daily 5:30 pm 9:25 4:30 pm September 6 October 10, 2016 9:25 pmpm 10:30 10:30 pm pm 10:406:30 pmpmDaily 7:25 pm 9:45 pm Daily LEAVE SALTERY BAY LEAVE EARLS COVE 9:15 pm 8:20 pm 5:35 am Except Sun 6:30 am Except Sun PC Express Pick Up In 3 easy steps 7:25 amHeather’s December 22, 2016 - January 2, 2017 8:25 am 9:25 am 10:25 am LEAVE LANGDALE LEAVE HORSESHOE BAY 11:20 am 12:20 pm 7:20 pm am Except Dec 25 & Jan 1 6:20 pm am Except Dec 25 & Jan 1 3:50 4:55 ORDER 5530 Sunshine Coast Hwy, 8:25 pm am 9:25 pm amONLINE AT: 6:55 5:55 pcexpress.ca Sechelt, BC 10:25 am 11:30 am 1 2 3 10:30 pm 9:25 pm or download the 12:35 pm 1:35 pm SHOP FILL PICK UP 604-885-6723 PC Express app today: 2:45 pm 3:50 pm Select your Our personal Choose October - December 21, 2016 favourite shoppers will when you 4:50 pmto11Sun: 5:50 pm Hours: Mon 8:00am-9:00pm fresh fill your order, want to 6:50 pm 7:50 EARLS pm COVE LEAVE SALTERY BAY LEAVE groceries just the way pick up online you like it your order 8:45 9:45 5:35 pm am Except Sun 6:30 pm am Except Sun 7:25 am 9:25 am 11:20 am 3:25 pm 5:30 pm

8:25 am 10:25 am 12:20 pm 4:30 pm 6:30 pm


4

The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020

Editorial Opinion

Weekly Cartoon

Take care of our seniors BC’s Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie is asking all British Columbians to look out for the elderly in our community. “While the provincial health officer has advised that most people who contract COVID-19 will experience mild symptoms, it is a more serious illness for the elderly, and we need to ensure that people who are not feeling well refrain from close contact with seniors and those who have underlying health conditions. We also need to support seniors to ensure they are properly washing their hands, cleaning surfaces they come into contact with, limiting their exposure to others in the community who may be ill and practicing social distancing for the time being,” said Mackenzie. “Seniors living in the community often depend on care workers, family and friends to assist them with everything from taking their medications, grocery shopping and cooking meals to more complex personal care needs. These seniors may find that some of the people they rely on may be feeling unwell and it is recommended that person refrain from direct contact until they feel better. That is why, now, more than ever, it is important for all of us to look out for our elderly friends, neighbours and family members living in the community,” added Mackenzie. In BC, there are 990,000 people aged 65 and over, or 19 per cent of the population. There are 124,000 people age 85 and over in BC (two per cent of the population), and two thirds of those are living with medium to high complexity chronic conditions. The Seniors Advocate is asking all British Columbians to contact their elderly friends, family, and neighbours who might need some extra help and see how that person is doing. “It could be anything from helping a senior get some groceries, taking out their garbage, bringing over a cooked meal or bringing them up to speed on the latest COVID-19 recommendations from our provincial health officer. These are things we can all do to help, and they are important measures to keep seniors who are living in the community healthy and to reduce anxiety both for seniors and for their family members.” The Office of the Seniors Advocate (OSA) has a toll-free information and referral line for seniors or others looking for community resources not related to health care. “We have a toll-free number that people can call to find out about community resources that might be available, and we have just partnered with bc211 to expand our hours of operation,” stated Mackenzie. Seniors with non-medical related inquires can phone the OSA’s toll-free number at 1-877-952-3181. For medical questions, please phone 8-1-1. Submitted by BC Seniors Advocate

Letters to the Editor – Opinions What COVID tells us

For the past three-and-ahalf years, I have been involved in an advocacy group organized in response to Vancouver Coastal Health’s attempt to privatize longterm care in our community. Although our coalition was founded to address this particular issue, from the outset we have seen the defence of publicly-owned and operated long-term care as only one stage in an ongoing fight to defend our public health care system. The COVID-19 crisis shows how great the stakes of this struggle are. For the past 30 years, successive governments have chipped away at health care funding, all the while finding #213 - 5710 Teredo Street, money to pay for everything Sechelt (Teredo Square) from tax cuts to the Olympics, to eliminating bridge P.O. Box 494, Sechelt, BC, V0N 3A0 PUBLISHER tolls. In our community, this Susan Attiana Phone: 604-885-3134 has led to chronic shortfalls publisher@thelocalweekly.ca Fax: 604-885-3194 in almost every sector of the admin@thelocalweekly.ca EDITORIAL www.thelocalweekly.ca health care system, includJohn Gibbs Hours Mon. - Fri. 9am - 5pm ing acute, long-term and editor@thelocalweekly.ca home care. The fraudulence Display Advertising Deadline: NEWS REPORTER of the “affordability” arguMonday noon at The Local office. Connie Jordison Email: sales@thelocalweekly.ca ment is brought into focus reporter@thelocalweekly.ca when what is at stake is not Classified Advertising Deadline: SALES / MARKETING just tax dollars but the lives Monday noon at The Local office. sales@thelocalweekly.ca Email: admin@thelocalweekly.ca of vulnerable seniors and CLASSIFIED SALES/ their care providers. Editorial Deadline: Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia SPECIAL FEATURES Monday 10 a.m. at The Local office. The coronavirus crisis www.rcbc.ca Kaytee Johnstone Email: editor@thelocalweekly.ca takes place against a backadmin@thelocalweekly.ca THE LOCAL IS LOCALLY OPERATED drop of revelations about DISTRIBUTED EVERY THURSDAY Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR ADMIN / SALES ASSISTANT AND widespread abuse and neTO 11,500 HOUSEHOLDS ON THE Andrea Coates glect in the province’s largSUNSHINE COAST BY CANADA andrea@thelocalweekly.ca POST, (CANADA POST AGREEMENT est chain of privately-owned PRODUCTION MANAGER/ (#41000012). care facilities. Worse, a re-

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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.

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tacted, only five were actually contacted and nobody living further downslope was approached. Furthermore, a section of the proposed clear-cut is drained by Walker Creek that has been diverted along Reed Road in an eastern direction. Thus, anyone living downslope of the Walker Creek diversion should have been included in an objectively-carried-out engagement process. As a result, any conclusion BCTS forwards to our government is worthless. I take the liberty to highlight two statements made by BCTS’s representatives during this so-called public engagement. One of the residents stated that this forest was previously marked as Gibsons Watershed Reserve Conclusion worthless and asked BCTS on what Based on a directive from authority they had incorpoMinister of Forests Doug rated Reed Road Forest (in Donaldson, BC Timber Sales 2012/13) into their timber (BCTS) is presently carry- supply area. BCTS’s answer ing out an enhanced public was that this forest was alengagement consultation ways part of their inventory. regarding the Reed Road I challenge BCTS to produce maps published before Forest. In a first step, they have 2010 that show Reed Road contacted land owners who Forest to be part of their will be affected by their timber inventory. Check theRoad BC RECYCLEpEdia A second resident was logging plans of Reed 604-RECYCLE (732-9253) by BCTS that there is a Forest. However, BCTS de- told cided to contact only a few real shortage of timber for 1-800-667-4321 property owners and to ex- coastal mills. The harvested Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR clude many others that also wood will generate several would be affected. Of seven times the value of the logs directly adjacent land own- themselves in terms of jobs ers that BCTS said they con- and higher value products. port by the BC Seniors Advocate confirms that such problems are not specific to Retirement Concepts, but symptoms of the general state of for-profit care. To his shame, Adrian Dix has not committed to rectifying any of the many serious failings the report outlines. In the midst of a pandemic, this is unacceptable. Experts tell us that the current crisis is not a singular event, but a sign of things to come. As citizens, we need to demand secure, publicly-owned and operated care as our fundamental right, and hold to account those politicians who let corporate interests trump public safety. Ian McLatchie, Davis Bay

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Such a statement begs the simple question: Why then are we still exporting raw logs, instead of feeding the starving mills? Reed Road Forest is as big a gem as Clack Creek Forest used to be. This forest is located in an extremely close urban interface and must be immediately removed from BCTS management. Hermann Ziltener, Gibsons

Housing support

I am pleased to see that the Sunshine Coast Community Services Society is planning on expanding their program space to incorporate, not only their myriad services like the food bank, family and child counselling, child development and youth services and so much more, but have the vision to add four storeys to create up to 35 units of affordable housing for women and children. This redevelopment on their current site will provide safe, affordable and appropriate housing that will allow women and families at risk to re-establish their lives. For more information Check the BC REC and to receive a link to show www.rcbc support to the District of Sechelt for these plans peoRecycling council of ple can email friendssccss@ gmail.com. Sandra Cunningham, Elphinstone

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Recycle? Yes orEDITOR no? LETTERS TO THE

Letters theBC Editor should be sent by e-mail Gettothe ReCYClepedia app 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 www.rcbc.ca number. Letters may be edited for a varietyRecycling of reasons. council of B.c. MeMBeR


The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020 5

Darwin seeks BC Green Party leadership Kim Darwin, BC Green Party vice-chair, formally announced March 17 that she is running for the leadership of the party. Darwin presents a bold vision for the party, and believes that the BC Greens alone have demonstrated a proactive and pragmatic approach to addressing the issues facing BC voters, beginning with the climate leading through economic transition, and extending to affordable housing, education, the rights and title of our indigenous people, the

opioid epidemic and access to affordable healthcare – a hot button issue with the COVID-19 pandemic topping all of the newscasts. Darwin, who lives in Sechelt, has a strong professional background as a business leader, and as a social impact investor and community organizer that prepares her for the role of leader. “Even though I’ve built a highly successful, award-winning mortgage consulting business, I am setting it aside so I can dedicate 100 per cent of my time to the leadership

race and the leadership role when elected” said Darwin. She will work closely with the sitting BC Green Party MLAs, party members and staff to create a shared policy platform built around the core principles of the party, and which effectively transitions BC into a decarbonized economy that works for all families, and all communities. “The clean tech, climate conscious economy of the future starts today in BC”, said Darwin, “when we prepare to elect a provincial BC Green

Stay in your car on the ferry As of March 17, BC Ferries will allow customers to remain in their vehicles on the enclosed car deck during the COVID-19 situation, to help support social distancing and self-isolation. The decision is the result of collaboration between Transport Canada and the Canadian Ferry Association to provide ferry operators with important flexibility to help protect passengers and their

families from COVID-19 related risks, while also ensuring additional measures are taken to ensure passenger safety. The purpose of keeping passengers off closed car decks is to ensure their safety in the case of an emergency. Safety is the top priority for BC Ferries, and the company is committed to providing a healthy and safe environment for our customers and employees. During this tem-

porary period, BC Ferries will increase patrols on the enclosed car deck to ensure safety in the rare event of an emergency. Passengers will not be allowed on closed car decks once the COVID-19 situation ends. As this situation is rapidly evolving, BC Ferries encourages customers to monitor the website for any changes to service: bcferries.com. Submitted An empty shelf at the IGA store in Wilson Creek. In this case it was toilet paper that was sold out, but most grocery stores have had occasional shortages of various goods as concerns over COVID-19 has led to sporadic panic shopping. Government leaders say there is no need for such stocking-up since supply chains are intact. And some pharmacies and grocery stores have announced early openings – when stores are freshly cleaned and shelves stocked – for senior citizens. JANE COVERNTON PHOTO

Closed, cancelled, postponed…. Following is a partial list of closures and cancellations due to COVID-19, as of March 17: • The SCRD offices on Field Rd. are closed to the public • All SCRD recreation facilities, community halls and sports fields are closed (parks remain open) • Dakota Ridge recreation area is closed for the season • Gibsons and Sechelt public libraries are closed • Gibsons and Sechelt mu-

nicipal halls are closed • Sechelt district facilities, including the Seaside Centre, Rockwood Lodge and Mission House are closed • Gibsons Public Art Gallery is closed until April 7 • Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives in Gibsons is closed • RCMP community police office in Gibsons is closed for counter service (Counter service is available at the Sechelt office 8am-4pm;

non-emergency line is 604885-2266) • SC Film Society has postponed the remainder of the season • Elder College at Capilano University in Sechelt has cancelled the spring semester • Gibsons Curling Club Flea Market, due to start in April, has been cancelled (The status of specific events can be seen on pages 8 and 9.) Staff

government to pass progressive, thoughtful and balanced legislation to transition our economy for the decarbonized era, and establish BC as a global leader in clean tech.” Darwin will use her passion, determination and personable style to attract an unprecedented slate of intelligent, progressive and diverse candidates from across the province to represent their communities in the BC Legislature. “There is more interest in the BC Green Party right now than at any point in our history. We’ve been right on the climate for 30 years, and we’re right now. In fact, the time for us is precisely right now.” Darwin was the BC Green Party candidate in the Powell River-Sunshine Coast in the 2017 provincial election. She is also the founder and chair of the local riding association. Submitted

Kim Darwin, now running for the BC Green Party leadership, is seen in March, 2019 lending her support to a students’ environmental action in Davis Bay. CONNIE JORDISON PHOTO

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The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020

Shíshálh name changes: a concern about lack of consultation Regional government comment on a provincial proposal to change the name of Wilson Creek to ts’ukw’um and Madeira Park to salalus will be discussed at an upcoming meeting with SCRD elected representatives. Dean McKinley, SCRD chief administrative officer, is arranging for Jennifer Goad, the province’s executive director of “mountains, resorts and heritage” with the forests ministry, to provide information on that process. She will also be asked to update the board on the related provincial project of adding First Nation names

for communities to Highway 101 signage. McKinley noted that the two processes are separate and that there is considerable confusion in the community on what is happening with each of them. The date to meet with Goad has not been finalized but could be as early as March 26. The province wrote the board on Jan. 23 about the community renaming proposals. That letter explained that the changes were being considered as part of commitments in its 2019 Foundation Agreement with the

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shíshálh Nation. The board was asked to submit its “advice and comment” on the proposal by April 23. McKinley noted that in his conversations with provincial staff he was advised that date was not a hard deadline for input and that consideration of adoption of the changes would not proceed until after that date. In discussion of the briefing opportunity at a committee meeting on March 12, Area A Director Leonard Lee stated, “this is good news.” He reported receiving letters from the chamber of com-

merce and residents’ association in his area expressing concerns about a lack of consultation and input into the planning process on these issues. A suggestion also came forward that the highway signage project be delayed, to ensure that the inclusion of the traditional names is done in a consistent manner along Highway 101 from Langdale to Lund. That includes the traditional territories of three First Nations.

Committee members asked that representatives of the shíshálh and skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nations, as well as representatives of the provincial transportation ministry also be invited to participate in the upcoming meeting with the board. Lee stated he is hopeful that these discussions will help lead to the establishment of a stakeholders working group involving

First Nations, provincial and local governments as well as area residents. He feels this is needed to coordinate how projects related to First Nations reconciliation proceed locally. “The local perspective is not being heard in the planning stages. The planning stages should not only define the reconciliation projects but explain and seek input on how they will be carried out,” said Lee. Connie Jordison

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At the March 11 Sechelt committee of the whole meeting, committee members received information on the proposed 2020 capital budget that included $6 million in projects being put forward by staff. Over 30 capital item requests were presented in eight categories. The highest-priced 2020 capital project proposals are for improvement and a runway extension at Sechelt Airport. Just over $3 million is being sought from a combination of grant funding and reserves to pay for this. In discussion of projects in the road infrastructure section, Councillor Matt McLean questioned the need for a proposed $80,000 road condition assessment report. Citing that little progress had been made in addressing the recommendations made in the 2015 Road Valuation Assessment (McElhanney) report, he said he would prefer money applied to fixing driving surfaces rather than another review. Director of Finance David Douglas advised the committee that having current asset assessment reports available is likely to be a requirement to apply for senior government infrastructure grants in the future. McLean also spoke in favour of full-width road repairs rather than the “paving patch work approach” often used by the District. In his view, patching

creates potholes. Plans to spend $440,000 on vehicles and equipment were reviewed. These include a budget proposal of $225,000 for a single-axle dump truck, two staff vehicle replacements and the addition of an off-road utility vehicle for the parks department to help with trail maintenance. Committee members encouraged staff to consider multiple uses when making vehicle purchase decisions, such as ensuring any off-road vehicle could be adapted for sidewalk or public space snow clearing. Investments of about $65,000 are being requested for Seaside Centre, Mission Point House and Rockwood Centre. Staff explained the

variety of improvements needed to bring these buildings up to a minimum level for public rentals. They advised that they would also be bringing forward requests to increase rental fees this year. Siding repaid and painting worth $75,000 is being requested for the municipal hall and library building. Alton Toth, committee chair, said members were aware that a leak recently developed in the building’s tower area, as well as other issues with the building’s envelope. The committee also received staff estimates on an additional $2 million in capital projects being requested by area community associations. Connie Jordison

Tools worth $10K stolen On March 16 Sunshine Coast RCMP received a report of a theft of tools from a jobsite in the 6400 block of Gale Avenue North. Over $10,000 in tools was stolen from a locked garage on the property. It is believed that the theft occurred between March 13 at 9:30pm and March 14 at 2:30pm. Company name “SPANI” may be found etched into some of the tools and/or will have a “SPANI” sticker affixed. Hilti, Makita and Bosch tools such as drills, laser levels, Sawzall,

Impact drills etc. were all stolen. The RCMP are asking for any information or suspicious vehicles seen in the area around that time or the days previous. Any homeowners with surveillance cameras that capture street activity in the blocks around the 6400 block of Gale Ave. N are asked to contact police. Anyone with any information can call the RCMP or report tips confidentially to CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Submitted by RCMP


The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020 7

SCRD the first local government to raise taxes

A group from the Sunshine Coast Labour Council protested the price of gasoline on March 13 in Gibsons, when the price was 135.9/litre. The council says the oil companies are gouging customers on the Coast and – based on the price elsewhere – believes gas should be no more than 110/litre here. PHOTO SUBMITTED

The first increase to local 2020 property tax levels was confirmed with the adoption an SCRD budget that includes $46 million in spending. The regional portion of this year’s property taxes will increase, on average, by between nine and 18 per cent. With Sechelt Area Directors Matt McLean and Alton Toth opposed, the 2020-24 financial plan bylaw passed at the March 12 Board meeting. The two directors were unsuccessful in their requests to have the board take additional time to consider and explain to the public the need for higher spending. Their concerns focused on the planned hiring of 15 new staff, especially four positions for a strategic initiatives department. Both suggested use of consultants to handle strategic regional planning issues related to water supply, solid waste management and

Entertainment in Gibsons budget Three summer entertainment events in Gibsons are recommended to receive financial support through the Town. In a March 10 committee meeting focused on items beyond the town’s 2020 base budget, council members confirmed that they want $15,000 available to help fund Sea Cavalcade this year. The 51st rendition of that community celebration did not proceed in 2019, as not enough volunteers could be recruited to staff the event. Representatives of the

community-based volunteer group organizing the 2020 event, scheduled for July 24 to 26, were on hand to present some details. An event theme of “Gibsons Good Times” was announced. While a full budget was not presented, spokesperson Phill Murray committed that the event would proceed “on time and on budget”. To help with fundraising for the festivities local entrepreneur Joanne Chaisson is proposing to develop and sell a “merman” calendar project featuring local residents. Graffiti

Museum Company founder Beau Smith is also working with the planning group to link events related to street art to the celebration. A 2020 Lantern Festival, scheduled for Sept. 5, also received support. The committee encouraged event organizer Verna Chan to look for corporate sponsorship for the event. If this is not forthcoming, a town contribution of $7,000 will be considered in the 2020 budget. The committee also favoured adding close to $5,000 to the Music In The

sustainability. In an email to the Local, Toth wrote that he “would have preferred those increases be incremental as changes in the organizational capacity are realized.” As a delegation at the meeting, Sechelt and District Chamber of Commerce Chair John Henderson also asked for deferral of the bylaw to “allow time for more assessment and analysis”. He suggested the SCRD seek a waiver from the provincial requirement to have its budget finalized by March 31. With more time available, the chamber requested business cases be made available that demonstrate the value that the record levels in spending would bring. In response, SCRD staff stated that they viewed the budget adoption deadline as not negotiable. Board Chair Lori Pratt responded to the calls for budget delays by stating that the

time had come for the board to move forward with its plan to address long standing issues in the region. “We have a history of putting band aids on waterfalls,” said Pratt, in defense of the plan to tax for more resources so that the SCRD can deliver on the commitments made to the community in its strategic plan. That plan commits that the SCRD will take respectful, bold and deliberate actions to improve community engagement, infrastructure management, regional collaboration, community resiliency and advocacy on behalf of the Coast. Area E Director Donna McMahon said that property taxes over the past 40 years have not been at the levels needed to maintain local government infrastructure or services. She cited past problems with use of consultants and stated she supported

building capacity within the SCRD by hiring staff. Adoption of the 2020 budget was followed by board action on a regional water supply expansion project. A bylaw to borrow up to $9 million for design and construction of the Church Road Well Field received three readings. Staff noted that the required provincial approval of borrowing bylaws normally takes six to eight weeks. If that approval is received, the board will be asked to endorse the bylaw and a public alternative approval process (AAP) for the borrowing. An AAP would provide eligible electors with the opportunity to oppose the borrowing over a 30-day period. A minimum of 10 per cent of those eligible must submit objection documents to halt the borrowing process. Connie Jordison

Landing program. The recommended 2020 budget for these live musical performances on weekends stretching from the beginning of July to the first week in September is $23,900. The additional funding will be used to pay performers and production staff. In discussing the free public concert series, the committee again recommended that sponsorships be sought out to help pay for larger and pricier performing groups. Mayor Bill Beamish, who developed the event concept as a town staffer in the early 2000’s, said that the original

intent was for the event to become self-funding through sponsorships. He also commented that he wanted to ensure that new and emerging local talent continues to be offered an opportunity to perform as part of the program. Other 2020 budget increases that received nods at the committee level included a $2,780 contribution to the Gibsons Seniors Society for minor kitchen equipment needed to support food services at Harmony Hall. Also supported was just over $40,000 to augment the town’s administrative sup-

port and public works staffing during the second half of this year. Connie Jordison

@TheLocalWeekly


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Cancelled? We have labelled events CANCELLED where we know that is the case. But you should check before you go. Remember, as of March 16, gatherings of more than 50 people have been prohibited because of COVID-19.

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Thursday, March 19 • Rock’indeed pastel painting for kids aged 6-9, Gibsons Public Art Gallery, 10am-noon CANCELLED

Friday, March 20

• Norval Morrisseau “art and story-telling”, for ages 6-9, Gibsons Public Art Gallery, 10am-noon CANCELLED

@TheLocalWeekly

• “Going abstract” workshop with Marlene Lowden, for ages 10-13, Gibsons Public Art Gallery, 12:30-2:30pm CANCELLED • Rock n’ roll bingo, fundraiser for Rogue Fest, Roberts Creek Legion, 7:30-10pm CANCELLED

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Saturday, March 21

• Travel sketching class with Hiroshi Shimazaki, Gibsons Public Art Gallery, 9am-4pm, register at 604-886-0531 CANCELLED • Elder’s spring crafts sale, shíshálh Nation Hall, Sechelt, 10am-4pm CANCELLED

• Laser sailing info, presented by SC Sailing Association, Trail Bay Mall, Sechelt, 10am-4pm CANCELLED • Repair Cafe, Trail Bay Mall, Sechelt, 11am-4pm

• Archivist Laura Miller launches new book, “A Matter of Facts”, about the role of archives in a post-truth world, SC Museum, Gibsons, 1-2:30pm CANCELLED • Leonie Croy of the Seed-Saving Collective talks seeds, Gibsons Public Library, 2-3:30pm CANCELLED

• Charlotte Wrinch entertains, Persephone Brewing, Gibsons, 2-4pm • Pulling Strings ukulele singers entertain, Gibsons Public Market, 2:30-4:30pm • The Burying Ground duo, Backeddy Pub, Egmont, 7pm • Dr. U’s Dance Party Band, Gibsons Legion, 8pm • Karaoke with DJ JB, Sechelt Legion, 9pm

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND PRICING CONTACT SUSAN ATTIANA 604-885-3134, publisher@thelocalweekly.ca OR KAYTEE 778-918-7910, admin@thelocalweekly.ca OR ANDREA 604-885-3134, sales@thelocalweekly.ca VIEW THE 2019 FALL EDITION ONLINE AT:

thelocalweekly.ca

• “Equiox”, an evening of full bass line sets with various DJs, Roberts Creek Legion, 9pm CANCELLED

• Honky Tonk Hoedown with DJ Teflo, 101 Brewhouse, Gibsons, 9pm

Sunday, March 22

• Class on printmaking from plexiglass plate, Arts Centre, Sechelt, 10am-3pm, register at kevin_mcevoy@hotmail.com • Sunday blues jam hosted by Blue Line Trio featuring Gary Gilbert, Clubhouse Restaurant at Pender Harbour Golf Club, 2-6pm, by donation • Meet the artist at an exhibit by Iranian artist Mehran Modarres Sadeghi, Arts Centre, Sechelt, 2-4pm CANCELLED


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Monday, March 23 • Urban sketching workshop with Paula O’Brien, for kids aged 10-13, Gibsons Public Art Gallery, 10amnoon CANCELLED

Where to recycle?

• Michelle Young from Ruby’s Run Urban Farms addresses Pender Harbour Garden Club, School of Music, Madeira Park, 1pm

Where to recycle?

Tuesday, March 24

Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia • PH Women’s Connection will hear from Haida Bolton, president of the www.rcbc.ca Sechelt Sunshine Toastmasters Club, School of Music, Madeira Park, 10am CANCELLED

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Wednesday, March 25

Stand out Get noticed! from the crowd in • Community dialogue evening with syiyaya Reconciliation Movement, with Advertise world cafe, Roberts Creek • Open mic, five minutes to share prose, poetry or song, Gibsons Public Library, 6pm CANCELLED

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Get the BC ReCYCl • Celtic fiddle and guitar concert with Pierre Schryer and Adam Dobres, Heritage Playhouse, Gibsons, 604-885-3134 • sales@thelocalweekly.ca phone: 604-885-3134 • email: sales@thelocalweekly.ca 604-885-3134 • email: sales@thelocalweekly.ca 7:30pm CANCELLED BC RECYCLINGphone: HOTLINE

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Thursday, March 26

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• “Fantastic Fungi” movie, followed Advertise inby simulcast Q+A with mycologist Paul Stamets, Heritage Playhouse, Gibsons, doors at 6pm CANCELLED 604-885-3134 • sales@thelocalweekly.ca Friday, March 27

Get noticed!

• Drinks for the future, Gumboot Cafe, Roberts Creek, 5-6:30pm CANCELLED • Family movie night showing “Abominable”, Gibsons Public Library, 6-8pm CANCELLEDAdvertise in

• Pender Harbour Choir variety show “Steppin’ Out”, fundraiser for choir trip 604-885-3134 to Penticton, School of Music, Madeira Park, 7:30pm CANCELLED sales@thelocalweekly.ca • Artesia Coffee House with “Bellows and Strings”, “J-Tones” vocal trio, and “Out of the Bluegrass” group, Arts Centre, Sechelt, 7:30pm CANCELLED

Saturday, March 28

• Travel sketching class with Hiroshi Shimazaki, Gibsons Public Art Gallery, 9am-4pm, register at 604-886-0531 CANCELLED • Repair Cafe, Gibsons Public Library, 1-5pm CANCELLED

• SC Film Society presents “The Biggest Little Farm”, a documentary about a California couple going back to the land, Raven’s Cry Theatre, Sechelt, 2pm CANCELLED

• MedTalks presents ophthalmologist Dr. Brian Nelson on eye health and treatment for cataracts, Seniors Activity Centre, Sechelt, 2-4pm, register at 604-885-8637

• Slocan Ramblers concert, School of Music, Madeira Park, 2pm CANCELLED • Ever Lovin’ Jug Band, with guests, Gumboot Cafe, Roberts Creek, 8pm • Dance with The Butchers, Gibsons Legion, 8pm

Sunday, March 29

• SC Secular Humanist Association presents “dinosaur, drilling and deep dirt” with Peter Hews, Chapman Creek Hatchery, 1:45-4:30pm, 604-741-0710

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The Local Weekly wants you to know that we are working diligently making sure you get the local news every week directly into your home mailboxes. We will continue to serve our readers during this disruptive time. For offices that may be closed, we are double stocking our newspaper boxes and you can find us at any of these locations:

✓ IGA Gibsons ✓ Fields Store Gibsons ✓ Roberts Creek General Store ✓ 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 Diesel ✓ Bathgates General Store ✓

- Egmont OR at the LOCAL office: #213 - 5710 Teredo Street

You can also view our paper online at: www.thelocalweekly.ca We will remain open and working during these difficult times to deliver updates every week both online and delivered directly to you! Contact us at any time at publisher@thelocalweekly.ca. Keep well and follow the advice of our local health authorities. Susan Attiana, Publisher, 604-885-3134


10

The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020

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Tony Browton RE/MAX City Realty

What does staging your home mean? Staging your home for sale is the act of strategically arranging your furniture and decor so your home looks its best while it’s on the market. Staging your home in preparation for sale is all about accentuating your home’s strengths and minimizing its weaknesses. Buyers are picky, so a well-staged home will stand out in the market. Buyers want homes that are move-in ready and a well-staged listing suggests that the entire home is well maintained. Statistics show that staged homes sell quicker and for more money, so time and money spent readying your home for sale will pay off. And it doesn’t have to cost a lot. Consider the following when staging your home for sale: Declutter. As I mentioned in my previous article, decluttering your home is the first step. Remove all items and furniture in the home that aren’t necessary so you can give your home a more spacious feel. By removing unnecessary pieces from your home, it will help make your home seem larger and more spacious. Rearrange furniture. Rearrange your furniture to create a natural flow throughout the house. Move your furniture away from the walls and closer to the middle of the room to create a space that’s cozy, functional and welcoming. Add art. Take down personal

VIEW THE 2019 FALL EDITION ONLINE AT:

thelocalweekly.ca

photos and replace them with mirrors and artwork. Mirrors give the illusion of more space and add light to a room. Adding nice art to the walls will dress up your home. Display. Create small displays on tables, shelves and fireplace mantels in groups of three using decorative pieces with similar shapes, sizes, colours and textures. Do your best to put away all the items that are not decorative even if they’re useful. A room with a purpose. Create a purpose for each room such as office, playroom, craft room, dining room. Even if that’s not exactly what you use it for, it’s best to give each room and empty space a purpose. Create a cute reading nook with a comfy chair, lamp and side table. Have an empty room or space? Make a yoga room out of it to give it a purpose without spending much money – just add a yoga matt and bolster and a few plants in baskets. Add some greenery. Be sure and add some greenery to your spaces. In the spring and summer months, have fresh flowers in the living room, dining room, kitchen and master bedroom. In the fall

and winter months, buy large and small potted plants and a few cute pots or baskets to dress them up. You can also display fruits and vegetables in a cute bowl in your kitchen. It’s all about the scents. Do not use old-school products that add a strong artificial smell to the home as this might signal that you’re trying to cover up an unpleasant odour. Instead, purchase a few diffusers and some high end essential oils to diffuse crisp and clean scents such as lemon, or calming scents such as lavender to the home. Also make sure you crack your windows, especially in the winter months when your house is closed up, to let the stale air out and the fresh air in. Linsey Hulls is a Realtor that works out of the RE/MAX City Realty Office and lives in Halfmoon Bay BC She wrote the column for Tony this week as he was out of town. 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

for an increase in service levels (more frequent ditch clearing or more timely snow removal) necessitates an increase in taxes. To manage costs, consider what services you would want to reduce or cut. We do save costs wherever we can by turning out the lights and going paperless but working harder only gets us so far. Our capital budget is for our assets and how we build, maintain, repair and replace them. Usually this is things like road paving, vehicles, building repairs, sewer lines, streetlights or even public art and new parks or trails. Capital funding comes from Development Cost Charges (DCCs), gas taxes, grants and reserves. DCCs are fees we charge developers when they build. The amount is based on the value of the development and we accumulate the funds in specific DCC reserve accounts for things like roads and parks. If we don’t have development, we don’t collect DCC’s. Money from DCCs

can ONLY be spent on what the funds were collected for Reserves are created from leftover funds when a project comes in under budget and it comes from taxes. We have a policy that Sechelt raises taxes by three per cent every year for our reserve accounts. That helps provide the funds we need to maintain our capital assets. A one-per-cent tax increase generates the District about $92,000 and costs the average homeowners $14.50. We also apply for grants but we don’t let grants drive our work plans. Grants come with restrictions around the time to complete them and may require matching funds and we don’t always have the staff time to manage the project or the matching funds. We have been spending the last month or so reviewing the operating and capital budget requests of staff and community associations. Watch for the opportunity to come out and give us your input so you can help us decide on the final budget.

Mayor’s Message Darnelda Siegers Mayor, District of Sechelt

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND PRICING CONTACT SUSAN ATTIANA 604-885-3134, publisher@thelocalweekly.ca OR KAYTEE 778-918-7910, admin@thelocalweekly.ca OR ANDREA 604-885-3134, sales@thelocalweekly.ca

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At budget time, people are confused by the difference between Operating and Capital budgets and where the money comes from for each. About 65 per cent of the revenue for our operating budget comes from property taxes and the rest from fees, grants and investments. Our operating budget pays for the things we do day to day. Here is a breakdown of our operating budget: • 69 per cent is used to run the municipality for expenses like wages, utilities, insurance, planning, parks etc. • 17 per cent for the RCMP • 7.5 per cent pays for garbage collection and recycling • 6.5 per cent is for other spending. When our expenses go up in any of these areas, we need more revenue to fund them. While we try to keep our tax increases modest, a request


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ARTS & CULTURE

DJ Neil Cooke-Dallin goes analogue with a cow bell during the show by the Victoria electro-rock band Astrocolor at the Roberts Creek Hall Feb. 29. This was back when more than 50 people could crowd onto the dance floor without worrying about COVID-19. SAMANTHA TURNER PHOTO

The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020 11

A group of women perform at the Roberts Creek Hall March 8 as part of the 16th annual Women’s Day potluck, sponsored by the SC Labour Council. PHOTO SUBMITTED

Explaining mental illness The Sunshine Coast Branch of the BC Schizophrenia Society is pleased to present Kids in Control, a free after-school program designed to help children struggling to cope with family mental health and addiction problems. Presented with the generous support of the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation, the Town of Gibsons and the BC Schizophrenia Society, Kids in Control provides children with knowledge about mental illness in a safe, accepting environment. In the course of eight two-hour sessions, children learn healthy coping strategies and build resiliency. Their anxiety is

Books & Beyond Heather Evans-Cullen

Library Director, Gibsons and District Public Library

As with many in our community, my travel plans for spring break were cancelled. My initial thought when this transpired was what the Gibsons & District Public Library could do to support families

Back in Time Heather Passmore

Curatorial Assistant, Sunshine Coast Museum & Archives

In 1903 when the bodies of four nameless loggers were shipped back to Vancouver, a young seafaring priest decided to take action against the brutality of living conditions along the coast of BC. After sailing from Vancouver to Alert Bay in order to see firsthand, John Antle received a small grant from the Anglican Church to acquire the “Columbia” and the Columbia Coast Mission was born. The CCM’s mandate was to serve the medical needs of logging

Dave Lasser, Sunshine Coast Community Forest (SCCF) operations manager, explains proposed cutting plans at an open house held March 10 at the Seaside Centre in Sechelt. SCCF plans to cut about 28,000 cubic metres this year in the Halfmoon Bay, East Porpoise and Tuwanek areas. CONNIE

reduced as they connect with others in similar situations. The relaxed social setting and sharing of healthy snacks helps children feel safe in sharing their feelings. As they come to better understand more about mental illness, they gain self-esteem and develop empathy for their ailing family members. Referrals to the program can be made by family members, schools, counsellors or social workers. The next program starts on April 1. For more information or to register, contact Adriana Lademann at 604-865-0167 or alademann@sccss.ca. Submitted

JORDISON PHOTO

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and individuals during this time. Sadly, these plans were cut short when I soon realized we would need to close the Library. Please know that all items will be renewed and no overdue fines will be incurred for the duration of this closure. As we bond together in social solidarity to combat this pandemic in our community and country, it is crucial that

we take care of each other and our own mental, intellectual and physical health. Please know you can access our GDPL staff by phone, and we are here to support you to access our online collection and databases. This may be a perfect time to take a free GALE course: this GALE database that you can access with your GDPL card offers a diverse range

of classes facilitated by professional instructors. Graphic Design, Business Plans, and Excel are just a sample of the many different subjects you can explore from home via GALE. Mango Languages can guide you through learning the language of your choice with audio features that assist with correct pronunciation. Indie Flix offers independent documenta-

ries, RB digital magazines offers you free magazines: your library card is your free ticket to a vast universe of learning and entertainment you can access safely from home. Of course our digital collection of e-books and audiobooks is at your fingertips from home as well. Please don’t hesitate to contact the Library for support in how

to access this vast collection. Your Library is here for you at this challenging time of social distancing. One of the best ways to combat this challenging situation is to keep reading and learning and expanding. Please reach out to us for phone support, we are here to help you. Take care everyone and hope to see you at the Library as soon as it is safe to do so.

and Indigenous communities. Between 1904 and the mid-70s they provided free medical care regardless of race, religion or creed from Pender Harbour to Port Hardy. In the days before labour unions and universal health care, the mission was a godsend. Antle’s hospital ships braved storms, swirling rapids, roaring whirlpools and narrow passages along 20,000 miles of coastline every day of the year. Thousands of people were served annually. In 1905, one logging camp at Rock Bay had 500 men alone, and no first aid kit. At that time, there were a total of 4,000 men in 80 camps engaged in the most dangerous calling in

Canada, with Vancouver as the nearest medical aid. Between 1905 and 1930 the CCM opened five hospitals (including the original St. Mary’s). In 1931 alone, just three of these hospitals had 7,860 hospital days, 297 medical cases, 293 surgeries and 3,088 outpatients. The CCM also built seniors homes, undertook dentistry and provided vaccinations and medical examinations of children. They conducted outpost clinics, gave pre- and post-natal care, and established well baby clinics for Indigenous mothers with a consequent reduction in infant mortality. Practical, unconventional and bold, Antle prioritized social service over church

services and he often clashed with church and government policies. Antle advocated for the continuation of the potlach. In the matter of residential schools, the CCM disputed church and government again. Antle saw firsthand that the creation of small village day schools was preferable to one large residential boarding school which alienated children from family and community. John Antle’s mission recognized that isolation and loneliness could kill and the ships brought social and spiritual comfort, lending libraries of books, newspapers and magazines to isolated settlers. The ships were famous for their Christmas parties and for bringing presents

(and Santa) to children. To learn more about the adventures of this visionary maver-

ick, please see the upcoming Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives annual newsletter.

A surgeon and nurse attend a patient at St. Mary’s Hospital in Pender Harbour in the 1930s. The hospital was opened by the Columbia Coast Mission, which provided medical care along the coast for decades. SCMA PHOTO #1370


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The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020

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SPRING RENOVATIONS

An approach to retaining walls Flat, even landscapes are often coveted in backyards. However, flat backyards are not always so easy to find. Fortunately, varied terrain does not mean that certain landscaping plans are entirely off limits, especially for homeowners willing to build retaining walls. Retaining walls help turn steep slopes in a yard into terraced focal points. They also can reduce soil erosion in hilly areas and can be used for aesthetic purposes, like raised planters, or to create more usable space within the yard. When an in-ground pool or pond is cut into a backyard hill, a retaining wall helps keep the remaining portion of that hill from collapsing into the cut-away area. When contemplating retaining wall projects, a lesson in physics and engineering may be needed. A sturdy and long-lasting retaining wall needs to be built in a way that will take into consideration the force of the soil and the point at which the soil will begin to slide away, advises the experts at The Family Handyman. If these calculations seem beyond the scope of your ability, installation of

a retaining wall is a job best left to a professional. If you are ready to forge ahead, these tips can get you started. However, it’s important to note the potential benefits of working with others who have already built a retaining wall. • Safety first: Call to have underground utilities plotted and marked before beginning any excavation. • Map out your trench and begin to dig. The trench should have a level, compacted base as it will be the foundation in which the retaining wall materials (be they blocks, bricks or wood) will sit. A crushed stone base will help anchor the courses and serve to promote drainage. The Family Handyman says to bury the first course of the retaining wall one-tenth the height of the wall to prevent soil behind it from pushing the bottom out. • Check for level. When placing blocks or timbers, make sure they are even with the first and periodically check for level as you go, advises the home improvement retailer Lowes®. • Stagger and set back. The next row of blocks or material should be positioned so

that the joints are staggered for blocks, bricks or wood. A masonry blade will be needed to cut the harder materials; a circular saw will cut timber. Also, work against gravity by setting the second course slightly back from the first to help push back against the soil that is trying so hard to push forward. Repeat the process as each level is placed. Many retaining wall products are made with a lip to create this set back. • Go with the grade. For especially steep slopes, a gradual step-up design may be more secure and more appealing than a very tall retaining wall. Each level of a stepped design should be done like the first. • Backfill with stone for drainage. Using a layer of stone behind the retaining wall can help successfully direct water away so it will not increase the weight of the soil behind the wall and push against the retaining wall, advises The Home Depot. Retaining walls serve different purposes in a yard. Building such a wall requires planning and careful execution to ensure the job is done correctly. Metro Creative

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A retaining wall provides more usable space in a steeply-sloped yard. METRO CREATIVE PHOTO

Weeds can (and do) get around The ubiquitous nature of weeds can make them seem like they can grow anywhere, and that’s because they can. Weeds can grow anywhere there’s room for them to sprout, including gardens, sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. One of the things that helps weeds spread so much is how productive they can be at producing seeds. An actively growing weed plant will produce thousands of seeds and disperse those seeds throughout the season. One of the more recogniz-

able weeds is the dandelion. During its growing season, a dandelion can effectively spread its seeds thanks in large part to the wind, which can blow seeds all over, thereby allowing a single dandelion to spread its seeds far and wide. Penn State Extension notes that successful weed plants share many characteristics, including an ability to reproduce both sexually and asexually. Successful weed plants also are clever in terms of getting around, as their seeds can attach to people and an-

imals and even float on water. Weeds also put up a fight when they’re confronted by humans. Humans who try to pull weeds may instead break them. The broken weeds can then re-sprout, ultimately spreading their seeds again. The resiliency of weeds also is evident in their ability to stay dormant for long periods of time. For example, weeds can stay in the soil for years before germinating, proving that these unwelcome guests aren’t just pesky, but also patient. Metro Creative


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The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020 13

SPRING HOME, GARDEN & RENOVATIONS

Cut your grass, but not too low Spring marks the return of many things. Trees and flowers begin to bloom again in spring, while warmer temperatures are welcomed back with open arms. Grass also begins to grow again in the spring. That means it’s not too long before homeowners have to dust off their lawn mowers and get to work. Those who don’t necessarily enjoy mowing the lawn may be tempted to cut their grass very low, as doing so can mean longer intervals between mowing sessions. However, mowing grass too low can have a very adverse effect on a lawn. • Cutting too low can injure the grass. Cutting grass too low can injure the grass, creating what’s essentially a domino effect of problems to come. Injured grass will focus on its recovery efforts, thereby making it vulnerable to other issues. • Cutting too low promotes weed growth. Injured grass is vulnerable to invaders, including weeds and insects. Weeds and insects can attack grass as it recovers from inju-

ry, and before homeowners know it, their lawns are overcome with a host of problems. • Cutting too low allows crabgrass to thrive. Crabgrass needs ample sunlight to grow. By cutting grass too low, homeowners may unknowingly be promoting crabgrass growth. Crabgrass is unsightly and can rob surrounding grass of the moisture it needs to grow. So, lawns cut too low may not only lose their lush appeal

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Mowing your grass too low can literally injure the grass, and promote the growth of weeds you don’t want in your lawn.

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Grow your own tomatoes 101 Slicing into the first tomato of the season is a much-anticipated moment for gardeners. Tomatoes are among the most popular fruit or vegetable plants grown in home gardens. Much of that popularity may be credited to the fact that red, ripe tomatoes have a delicious, juicy flavor that serves as the basis for all sorts of recipes. And since tomatoes can just as easily be grown in a full backyard garden or in a container on a patio or balcony, tomatoes appeal to gardeners regardless of their living situations. While tomatoes are relatively easy to grow, they are prone to certain problems and pests. Knowledge of what to expect when planting tomatoes and how to start off on the right footing can help produce a season’s worth of delicious bounty. • Wait until after the last average frost date. Tomatoes can be grown from seeds outdoors in warm areas, but tomato gardeners often find success starting seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date. Gradually introduce seedlings to the elements for a few hours each day, increasing the duration of time outside. Then they can be transplanted outdoors when temperatures are consistently over 15 C. • Choose a sunny spot. Tomatoes love to soak up sunlight, according to The Home Depot. Place the plants in a sunny spot so they can thrive. • Space out plants. The experts at Better Homes and Gardens say to leave anywhere from 24 to 48 inches between plants to accommo-

Heather’s

thanks to the unattractive appearance of crabgrass, but also because areas surrounding the crabgrass patches might turn brown due to lack of water. • Cutting too low can stress the grass. Cutting too low also makes lawns vulnerable to summer heat. Without blades tall enough to block some of the summer sun, grass can quickly succumb to summer heat, leading to dried out, discolored lawns. Metro Creative

date for growth and ensure the plants will not get stunted. • Plant deeply. Tomatoes tend to root along their stems. If transplants are long and lean, dig a trench and lay the stem sideways in the dirt, and then bend the top of the plant upward. Snip off the lower branches and cover with soil up to the first set of leaves. This will produce extra root growth and stronger, more vital plants. • Give the plants support. Tomato cages or stakes can help keep the leaves and fruit from touching the ground, which can cause rot and, eventually, death to the tomato plant. • Lay down a layer of mulch. Tomatoes grow best when

the soil is consistently moist. Mulch can help retain moisture from watering and rain. Mulch also will help prevent soil and soil-borne diseases from splashing on the leaves and plants when it rains. While you amend the soil, make sure that it drains well and is slightly acidic. • Prune away suckers. Tomatoes produce “suckers,” which are leaves that shoot out from the main stem. Removing these leaves promotes air circulation and keeps the plant’s energy focused on growing fruit. Tomatoes are a rich addition to any garden. A few simple tricks can help even novice gardeners grow delicious tomatoes. Metro Creative

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The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020

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Horoscope Michael O’Connor Astrologer

Tip of the Week: Spring will appear to arrive early this year due to this being a Leap Year. Otherwise, it is exactly on time. Devices used to measure celestial cycles are imperfect, yet the Gregorian Calendar is certainly sophisticated and is the most accurate measure of the Sunlight/ Earth relationship ever devised. This is very important in Western Astrology. Astrologically, the planetary configuration at the exact moment of the equinox is the real takeaway. Mars and Jupiter exactly conjunct, Saturn at the critical 29th degree, Pluto and the Lunar South Node all in Capricorn suggests major power plays by governments... The waning Moon in Aquarius indicates a full range of emotional reactions from the public from complete obedience to militant survivalism probably linked to media activated over-imagination and excessive reaction. So, as will be expected given the current status

of the world linked to the powerful cycle of change in Covid19 virus, spring 2020 your life that may even be will be eventful and dramat- understood to be metamoric. All of this was generally phic and transformational. predicted by astrologers be- You may have to step back cause this year truly marks to see this clearly. It began the birth of a new era. in late 2017. Since then, the process has deepened and Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19) Discerning what you truly accelerated. Positively, you need and want to feel secure feel liberated from prior recontinues. In part due to so- strictions. cial realities, you are that Cancer (Jun 22 – Jul 22) much more determined to Big changes on relationassert strategic measures. ship fronts are underway. You will go bigger than you These could prove quite have previously and your advantageous and synchroactions will probably prove nize with professional adpragmatic. Your estimates vancement. At worst, you will include both what could become overly conyou can share or trade and trolling of others. Entering what you may need from into a training period is a others. distinct possibility. In any case, you are committed to Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20) Mars conjunct Jupiter will increasing your powerful potential and social leverprove toCheck manifestthe as aBC ver-RECYCLEpEdia www.rcbc.ca itable militancy within you. age. Because you probably can, Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 23) you may push hardercouncil than of B.c. Recycling As MeMBeR with the spring thaw, others and even more than the water is rising and the you might have imagined. current is flowing increasThe intent behind and es- ingly faster. This momenpecially how you will push tum will continue over the is the other important ques- coming weeks. A learning tion. Positively, you will har- curve process is indicated ness this energy and push as well and it could prove through any of your own to be progressively steeper. limiting attitudes and any These studies and trainunhealthy habits. ing will probably include a variety of subjects so Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) You are well into the you will need to respond third period of a deep and with heightened discipline

The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020 15

and focus. Sagittarius (Nov 22–Dec 21) Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 19) Well, the retreat periThis is not simply the Virgo (Aug 24 – Sep 22) od is over. Hopefully, you dawning of the Age of A deep dive into a process were able to take full adAquarius, the Sun is already of change is now underway. Positively, it does come with vantage of it. Now you up. Especially now with it a heightened sense of cre- are back in the game and in Aries, you will feel the ativity. Study and research your ambition and drive sap of spring running fast are also implied. Also fea- are in high gear. Yet, you in your system alright. This tured is a heightened sen- still have to pay your dues. will prove especially true sitivity to beauty, color, and What this involves is sub- when Mars enters your sign texture. This could well ject to the specifics of your on March 30th. In the meanmanifest as the activation of situation so perhaps take time, focus on breaking springtime arousal. Wheth- some time to reflect upon through inner resistances er for love, business or it. Somehow, it will lead and focus to maintain your purely for pleasure, all your you to new thoughts and balance despite the shifting associations. sands underfoot. sense levers are on high. Capricorn (Dec 22–Jan 19) Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20) Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22) Captain Capricorn at the You are usually quick out The hefty Capricorn factor helm is causing people to of the gates when spring currently underway could salute at full attention. This arrives. This will not prove be weighing you down. It solid and stoic posture of entirely true this year. But, is activating an impulse to power can prove very reas- you will probably catch-up dig deep to overcome your suring. Of course, there are when Mercury enters Aries fears. Some of these could, always many sides to the on Good Friday. Like a bunCheck the BC RECYCLEpEdia of course, be stirred by all Check theyou BC RECY story. In any case, you may ny outrunning the fox, the reactive 604-RECYCLE drama on the (732-9253) www.rcbc be feeling your strength and may even surprise yourself world stage. In any case, 1-800-667-4321 authority these days and with your adrenal burst deciphering your best di- are determined to exercise and clever maneuvering. of B.c. MeMBeR Recycling council of rection is partRecycling of this council plot it. The good news: life does You will also be focused to yet, while possible, it is un- not judge. The fine print: collect carrots along the likely that you will be ‘going life does teach by karmic way. back’. returns. michael@sunstarastrology.com Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21) Do you feel the power? If not, it is because you are undergoing something of a rebirthing process. It could Get the BC ReCYClepedia app take until the Moon’s North Node enters Gemini in early may before you feel it more fully. Yet, the process itself should be providing you with some sneak peeks of it. Learning to truly own it www.rcbc.ca will also take some time so Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR focus to be patient with the Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR don’t want them. Instead of Donnelly says the SPCA is process. re-homing, or even culling urging local residents to do their flock humanely, they are the right thing. “When people BROUGHT TO YOU BY simply driving out to one of choose to raise animals they the logging roads in the area have a responsibility to treat and dumping them. Leaving them humanely. We’re speakACROSS chickens in the woods leaves ing out on this situation be1. Traverse them vulnerable to predators cause we know our commu6. Demented and starvation, ultimately a nity can do better.” 9. Lofty level painful death.” Submitted 13. Unit of apothecary weight 14. Historic period 15. Spooky 16. Movie accolade 17. Batch 18. Callow 19. Rising air current 21. Passed by 23. Watch chain 24. Dainty 25. Appropriate 28. Type of star 30. Pour out 35. Trickle 37. Small rowboat 39. Beer 40. Entice 41. Arm joint 43. Uncommon 72. Supplication 45. Not presently active 20. Dwelling 44. Paragon The SPCA has recovered 19 chickens that were left in the wild 49. Males, collectively 22. Cover 73. Bronze 46. Journey in the past 10 weeks. Abandoning unwanted chickens, the 51. Conventional 24. Cook briefly 74. Comparatively less 47. Prima donna SPCA says, is leaving them to a painful death. PHOTO SUBMITTED 54. Fully grown 25. Perform without DOWN 48. Pandemonium 56. Snapshot preparation 1. Water hen 50. Golf club 57. Slightly wet 26. Person excessively 2. Hurry 52. Fish trap 58. Iniquity concerned with propriety 3. One time only 53. Type of duck 59. Facet 27. Fatigued 4. Neckwear 55. Acme 60. A house, in Italy 29. Potentially shocking? 5. Religious discourse 57. Move downward continued construction. The inform how much additional 61. There’s no gain 31. Part of a deck 6. Plaza 61. Maybe without it, 32. Once more west side of Trail Avenue archaeological work will be 7. In the past 65. Characteristic of birds so they say 33. Mettle between Anchor and Pebble necessary. 8. Discourage 66. Country, initially 62. Affirm 34. Choice morsel Crescent has been cleared for Any artifacts are repatriat9. Pile 68. Cinematic production 63. Coniferous tree 36. Toll road works. Construction of ed back to the Sechelt Nation 10. Part of the eye 69. Location of something 64. Oracle 38. Belonging to you the storm infrastructure in at the tems swiya Museum. surrounded 11. Donate 67. Expanse of water 42. Penned this area has resumed, and Most of downtown Sechelt 70. Garland 12. Pay close attention to the ditches will be stripped has been designated as an 71. Repent 15. Tooth coating Solution page 14 Courtesy of: puzzlechoice.com and infilled with road base archeologically sensitive site material for the rest of this by the Province. The District CALLY OW LO week. of Sechelt works with an arTrail Bay Centre • 5755 Cowrie Street, Sechelt Additional mechanical chaeological consultant on all YEARS of service • Meat & Deli 604-885-9812 • Produce & Floral 604-885-9841 testing will likely be con- works in the all sensitive sites ND E O P E R AT • Bakery 604-885-9823 • Office 604-885-2025 ducted between Pebbles and in Sechelt before digging. Cowrie, and the results will Submitted

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Don’t abandon your chickens The BC SPCA’s Sunshine Coast Branch is crying “fowl” on hobby farmers who are abandoning chickens along local roads. “We are getting an increasing number of calls to rescue birds who have been dumped on logging roads in the area,” says Marika Donnelly, manager of the Sunshine Coast SPCA in Sechelt. “Since January we’ve had 19 chickens come through our branch, including nine roosters who were rescued on March 5.” She notes that the remains of a rooster who had been attacked by a predator was also discovered with the nine birds. Donnelly says roosters are most at risk, as they are less desirable for hobby farmers. “What we’re finding is that people raise the chicks until they are about six months old and they can discern if they are male or female,” she says. “Roosters will fight over the hens and can become aggressive, so some hobby farmers

CROSSWORD

Trail Avenue work resumes

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Road and storm sewer work on Trail Avenue in Sechelt resumed on March 10. On Feb. 7, possible artifacts were discovered which resulted in a halt to all work on the Trail Avenue realignment and construction project. Soil from test pits in the construction zone was removed and the consultant, In Situ Archaeological Consulting, screened the soil and released the area for


16

The Local - Thursday, March 19, 2020

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