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Volume 19, Issue 36

Sunshine Coast, British Columbia • www.thelocalweekly.ca • Thursday, September 10, 2020 Elphinstone Ranks Top 50

Renaming Delays

Page 2

BC Promises Bypass Study Page 2

COVID Update Page 3

Federal Funds For SD46 Page 3

Darwin Debate Page 5

Whale Trail Page 5

Back to School Pages 6 & 7

What’s Happening Page 8

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Sechelt council is asking the province to grant them an extension to the comment period on the renaming of Wilson Creek to the traditional word for the creek and area: ts’ukw’um. They are asking the BC Geographical Names office to extend the comment period to Dec. 31, after they’ve had a chance to meet with the shíshálh Nation and the Selma Park-Davis Bay-Wilson Creek Community Association to discuss the renaming. The scheduled meeting with the shíshálh Nation was postponed to allow time to plan a meeting in person rather than electronically. In 2018, the province signed a landmark reconciliation agreement with the shíshálh Nation, which included a commitment to install dual-language highway and road signage in appropriate locations. MICHELLE MACNEILL PHOTO

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The Local - Thursday, September 10, 2020

Elphinstone in the top 50 of BC schools

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ton House and Little Flower Academy, have maintained that achievement over the past five rating periods. Cowley stated that the 2018/19 rankings for elementary schools should be released shortly. Six local elementary schools are included in the Institute’s 2017/18 rating results. Two Coast elementary schools cracked the top 200 of 955 BC elementary schools rated. Gibsons Elementary was ranked 181, followed closely by Roberts Creek Elementary at number 195. Halfmoon Bay was ranked 215. Close to mid-

point when compared to other schools were West Sechelt at 452 and Cedar Grove at 482. Kinnikinnick Elementary was ranked 675. The Institute rates elementary schools based on reading, writing and numeracy skills of grade four and seven students. The Fraser Institute is an independent Canadian public policy research and educational organization. It studies and measures the effects of government policies, entrepreneurship, and choice on the lives of Canadians. Connie Jordison

The Province is moving ahead with safety improvements to a collision-prone intersection and committing to the study of a bypass/alternative route as a result of a recent study of the Highway 101 corridor between Gibsons and Sechelt. “We are committed to making safety upgrades to the busy Joe Road/Orange Road intersection on Highway 101,” said Claire Trevena, minister of transportation and infrastructure. “We also want to study the possibility of a Gibsons bypass or alternative route, as we know this is something that is important to many who live in the area.” The study of an alternative route or bypass of Gibsons

and Sechelt will include public consultation beginning next year. Currently, Highway 101 passes through both Gibsons and Sechelt, where it travels through 11 signalized intersections. “A safe, efficient Highway 101 is essential for people who live, work and travel on the Sunshine Coast,” said Nicholas Simons, MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast. “There are many opinions about how a bypass or alternative route could improve highway travel, and I look forward to leading public consultation in the coming year as we explore this idea further.” The Joe Road/Orange Road intersection on Highway 101 is one of the busiest unsignal-

ized intersections between Gibsons and Sechelt, providing a connection to Lower Road and many residential properties on either side of the highway. It is also one of the most collision-prone locations in the study area. To make this intersection safer for people, the ministry is starting engineering work on a project to install protected left-turn lanes eastbound and westbound, creating an easier and safer way for drivers to turn left. Also, adjustments to the overall geometry of the intersection will be made to further enhance safety. It is expected that construction will take place in summer 2021. Submitted

Gibson’s council deferred decisions related to its proposed short-term rental (STR) bylaw until Oct. 6. Third reading of that bylaw was slated for consideration at the Sept. 1 meeting. Council members requested additional time to consider the issue and related information from a Housing Needs Assessment that is due to be received shortly. At the meeting, Mayor Bill Beamish cautioned council that discussion of new information on the bylaw could require the Town to host an additional public hearing. An online public hearing was held in July. The need for a second hearing would be triggered if new information about the bylaw that impacts land use or density provisions is introduced. At a Sechelt council meeting on Sept. 2, staff were directed to look at increased

enforcement to address residents’ concerns about STRs. This was in reaction to a late August increase in written complaints received on issues like noise and parking violations related to STRs. Director of Planning and Development, Andrew Allen stated that around a dozen reports of violations had been received in the two weeks before that meeting. On Sept. 1, discussion of regulating STRs in an updated zoning bylaw was part of Sechelt’s advisory planning commission (APC) meeting. Members of that group advised staff they felt that provisions to address the disruptive and annoying things that some STR clients do, did not belong in zoning rules. “Zoning is a metric we can measure and enforce, unlike behaviour,” said Randy Knill, APC member. The group suggested keeping STR op-

erational regulations under Sechelt’s business licencing provisions. They encouraged the District to increase enforcement of such rules, especially on weekends. Staff had placed the discussion of STRs, along with other issues related to land use on the APC meeting agenda as a “test point for engagement” on a new zoning bylaw. That was an initial step in consultation on updating the municipality’s 33-year-old zoning document. Allen said that with advice from the APC on current issues related to zoning, staff would further develop bylaw provisions for consideration in the new draft bylaw. That would then be taken to the wider community for comment. He anticipates it will be into 2021 before any new zoning bylaw would be ready for endorsement. Connie Jordison

Elphinstone Secondary in Gibsons ranked 41 out of 252 in this years’ “Report Card on Secondary Schools” – one of 21 public schools rated in the top 50. MICHELLE MACNEILL PHOTO

Hwy 101 improvements, bypass study

Short-term rental decisions delayed

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Elphinstone ranked 41 out of 252 in this years’ “Report Card on Secondary Schools.” In the report, released by the Fraser Institute on Sept. 3, the Gibsons-based facility was one of 21 public schools rated in the top 50. The rankings, based on 2018/19 performance, were developed using graduation rates, exam results and the percentage of students that take more than three years to complete secondary school. The report placed Sechelt’s Chatelech as number 140 in the province. Pender Harbour Secondary was not included in the review. Schools are not ranked if the Institute cannot access a minimum level of provincial data on its ranking factors. Institute Senior Fellow Peter Cowley said this can occur if the school has a small number of students or if it chooses not to use standardized provincial testing. Each factor is rated on a scale of one to 10. Four Vancouver based private schools received “10 out of 10” rankings in each area. Of these, the top two, Crof-

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The Local - Thursday, September 10, 2020 3

COVID-19 UPDATE

Sunshine Coast COVID Physician Task Force Community Update #35 Dear Fellow Sunshine Coast Residents: With a return to school just around the corner and COVID-19 numbers continuing to rise across the province, we know that many parents, teachers and students are concerned about the risks involved with coming back to school. While there is some risk that we will see COVID-19 within our schools once they reopen, schools play an essential role in the long-term health and well-being of our children, and we know that there are significant risks associated with not returning to school. Over the next number of months, we are going to have to navigate the fine line between these two risks. With all of us working together, we hope that we can prevent any COVID-19 outbreaks and ensure a successful school year for everyone on the Coast. We would encourage everyone to review the provincial Back to School Plan, as well as our local School District 46 Restart Plan. These plans have been developed in coordination with Vancouver Coastal Health as well as the Ministries of Health and Education to try and provide the safest possible environment for staff and students. We will not go into the details of the return to school plans, which vary by school and grade level, but do want to highlight a few points which will help prevent a COVID-19 outbreak in our schools and in our community. One of the biggest things that will determine our success is a commitment to treat each other with kindness and respect. Not everyone will have the same level of comfort with the risks associated with returning to school, and it is essential that we all recognize and respect these differences. It is important to remember that while the schoolbased cohorts are regarded as much safer than interactions with total strangers in public places, cohorts will not become bubbles. Bubbles are very small groups of people that we interact with closely and without COVID-19 pre-

cautions. They should be limited to household members and no more than a few close friends. Cohorts are much larger groups that we interact with regularly while still maintaining COVID-19 precautions. It is possible that other students in your cohort are part of your bubble. If so, you may continue to interact with them as you normally would. If you decide to expand your bubble to someone else inside your cohort, please make that decision only after discussing it with your family and those within your current bubble. Please remember that when you expand your bubble, it now includes everyone in that other person’s bubble. Expanding your bubble does increase your risk of infection should anyone in your bubble contract COVID-19. For those students returning to school, please continue to consistently practice preventive measures. Maintain social distancing of at least two metres whenever possible, though it is acceptable to reduce that distance to one metre within your cohort at school. Wear a mask when in hallways, on school buses, or in other situations where it is impossible to maintain social distancing. Wash your hands frequently, and especially after touching any surface that someone else might have touched. Always wash your hands before and after eating, drinking, or touching your face or mask (your mouth, nose and eyes are the main route of entry for COVID-19). Of all the things that we can do to prevent an outbreak in our schools, the most important is for staff and students to stay home and self-isolate if any potential COVID-19 symptoms arise, no matter how mild those symptoms are. This allows us to identify infections and prevent further spread of COVID-19. If you have symptoms, please contact the Respiratory Assessment Clinic by phone or text at 604-740-1252, or by email at coastrespclinic@ gmail.com. We are open seven days a week from 8:30am to

4:30pm. Please note that testing is available for people of all ages, including school-age children and younger. Vancouver Coastal Health is currently trialling more comfortable ways of testing children (such as saliva testing), and we hope that this will be available locally in the near future. It is important that everyone be tested each time potential COVID-19 symptoms arise, so this means that some children may need to be tested multiple times during the school year. If a teacher or student tests positive for COVID-19, they will be contacted by Public Health, who will try to determine the source of infection and work to identify everyone who might have been in close contact with the infected person. Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 will be required to self-isolate for a minimum of 10 days from the onset of symptoms. Close contacts will be required to self-isolate for 14 days. Public Health will be in contact to provide guidance on when to return to school. As a general rule, a positive case within a cohort will not result in the whole cohort or school being required to self-isolate, though this may happen if the source of infection cannot be identified or there is evidence of widespread infection (i.e. an outbreak). Isolated cases will not be announced publicly, but if an outbreak is identified, this information will be released as soon as possible. Decisions to notify staff and parents of other students will be made in consultation with Public Health and school officials. Please note that if you have a negative swab, you should stay home and self-isolate until your symptoms have resolved. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve as expected, please call the Respiratory Assessment Clinic for further assessment. It is important to note that we continue to test everyone with possible COVID-19 symptoms at this time, so please do not hesitate to call

The federal government provided an influx of $578,000 into School District #46s budget on Sept. 3. A second round of federal money to help offset increased education costs related to COVID-19 is to be distributed to school districts later this year. Superintendent Patrick Bocking said that SD46 plans to work with its partners, including employee unions and parent advisory committees, to determine the best use of these funds. He said the results of a parent survey conducted by the District in June would also be considered. Adjustments to the District’s 2020/21 budget require board approval. The next board meeting is slated for Sept. 9.

The money comes from the over $2 billion the federal government announced it would give to help provinces and territories safely re-open their schools and economies. In making that announcement on Aug. 26, Prime Minister Trudeau indicated that the funds were to be directed to protect students and staff and, in turn, their families from COVID-19. Suggested uses include adapted classroom spaces, improved ventilation, more hygiene supplies, and the purchase of extra personal protective equipment for in-school use. The new school year begins for students on Sept. 10. Bocking said as of Sept. 4, over 90 percent of student parents or guardians had ad-

vised the District that they planned to send their children back to classrooms full-time or in transition to full-time. About two-thirds of impacted parents provided this information through a late August online survey. Input from others was assembled through District staff contact with the parents via telephone. Bocking said that those opting for a gradual transition back to classroom learning will be provided with resources to aid at-home study. He anticipates these packages will contain textbooks and worksheets as well as references to online resources but are not intended to be a full year distance education option. Connie Jordison

Federal COVID-19 funding for SD46

if you become ill. If you have more severe symptoms and believe you may need to be admitted to hospital, please go to the Sechelt Hospital Emergency Department. If you need an ambulance, please call 911. Please remember that the Emergency Department is open and safe for anyone with a medical emergency.

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! Sincerely, The Sunshine Coast COVID Physician Task Force Dr. Jennifer Baxter Dr. Ted Krickan Dr. Herman Mentz Dr. Brian Nelson Dr. Daren Spithoff

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 online for each Health Region (Vancouver Coastal Health, Fraser Health, Interior Health, Vancouver Island Health, Northern Health).

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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

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The Local - Thursday, September 10, 2020

Editorial Opinion

Weekly Cartoon

Orphan wells find new life As part of its COVID-19 response, Canada’s government is spending $1.7 billion to clean up “orphan” and inactive oil and gas wells. Industry should be footing the bill, but the work is critical and will keep people employed. Orphan wells are those with no known legal or financial owner, often due to bankruptcy. Finance Canada says Alberta has about 4,700, Saskatchewan 600 and BC 350, with another 91,000 inactive wells (no longer productive) in Alberta, 36,000 in Saskatchewan and 12,000 in BC. Some have been “abandoned” – industry-speak for capped to prevent toxic leakage. With roads, grid connections and infrastructure already in place, some wells can be converted to renewable energy operations. Around Taber, Alberta, the RenuWell project plans to employ fossil fuel industry workers to convert two to four inactive wells to solar energy installations that can generate 2,900 MWh and more than $224,000 in electricity sales a year to the area. It’s an idea that could easily be scaled up. As project originator Keith Hirsche explained, transforming 10 percent of inactive wells to solar installations in Alberta alone would provide enough renewable energy to meet the government’s 2030 goals without removing additional land from agriculture. As part of the project, an organization of former oil workers called Iron & Earth is partnering with Medicine Hat College to develop a five-day “rapid upskilling program for fossil fuel industry and Indigenous workers to learn the basics of solar before working on transforming the well sites themselves.” Geothermal energy also shows promise for transforming some wells. In April, the Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors, Petroleum Services Association of Canada and geothermal developers formed a partnership to promote geothermal development and create opportunities for displaced oil and gas drillers and service workers. Some deeper wells can be used for exploration and monitoring for geothermal potential. A Narwhal article details Fort Nelson First Nation’s efforts to turn 6,800 hectares of land in the Clarke Lake gas field in northeastern BC into a commercial-scale geothermal project. It would reduce reliance on fossil fuels and could provide heat for homes, businesses and greenhouses. Other uses for depleted wells include hydrogen production, lithium recovery (used in batteries) and carbon capture and storage. Ideally, most former wells would be returned as close to natural states as possible, restoring habitat for animals like caribou and reversing some of the devastation to traditional Indigenous territories and ways of life. But in many cases, old well sites provide opportunities to scale up renewable energy without building new roads and infrastructure and encroaching on valuable agricultural land. David Suzuki

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Letters to the Editor – Opinions Mandatory masks (Addressed to Premier Horgan and copied to the Local) I am writing as a worried citizen of Sechelt, who, with you and Dr. Henry, is concerned about the lack of respect many of our citizens have for others in our community during this COVID-19 crisis. Not only am I worried about the large parties, but the fact that few people are wearing masks, especially in the service industry. For instance, in our local grocery stores, employees dealing with food are not wearing masks. In fact, when I spoke to the butcher about it, he just laughed. People preparing the food in restaurants are not wearing masks, though the server may be. Though we do live in a democracy, I feel that if people are not self-regulating, then the province should regulate them. After all, we do this if people are not wearing seat belts or are using cell phones while driving. COVID-19 poses a much more serious threat. It could be fatal to many. My request is that you make masks mandatory, especially in establishments dealing with food. Michele Beaudry, Sechelt

Community created Library Park, in downtown Roberts Creek, took on a new look this past Slow Sundays in The Creek season. No umbrellas, no pop-up tents, no tables and chairs, no kids’ games and no vendor booths. Cordoned off with bright green flagging tape, an entrance and

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an exit and a sign-in sheet, the audience respectfully sat in a physically distanced manner in accordance with the provincial COVID-19 protocols. On a number of occasions during this past season, I did a stint as a gatekeeper. I found it both remarkable and reassuring that everyone who came and went was completely cooperative regarding the COVID-19 protocols we had in place. One of our volunteers devised a simple method for keeping the numbers within 50; each person entering gets a playing card from a new deck (minus two). When the deck ran out, no more entrants were permitted until someone exited, returning their card. It worked because of the sense of community; that we’re all doing this for all of our benefit. Simple. Once again, in our fifth season, Slow Sundays created community, just as Graham Walker and I envisioned before we began our first season. Along with Graham, whose energy and ability to flush out musicians of all makes, other key people like Mark Trevis, everyone’s support staff, and Patrick Tritchler, Slow Sundays provided a venue in which people felt safe and comfortable. The musicians welcomed being able to play in front of a live audience. Our local Environmental Health Officer, Chris Morse, was very helpful, positive and courteous. All of this only happens with funding, the SCRD being our most consistent funder over the

years. The generosity of the audience was a welcome addition for the musicians and the event alike. The RCCA under whose auspices we operate and on whose property the event takes place was indispensable. Our liaison, Kathleen Hudson, is a great asset. This has been a unique season, I hope. Next year Slow Sundays will again provide the opportunity for people to gather socially as a community. A younger generation is stepping forward to help put on this popular event. The future looks bright. See you all next Slow Sundays season. Ed Lands, Roberts Creek

Dear summer people As our summer comes to a close (although it looks like at least one more week of swimming weather!), I wanted to give a shout-out to those who I call my “Summer People” for the last 10 summers at my little beach in Gibsons. I just wanted to let my Summer People know how much I treasure all of you beachgoers – just as much as I treasure that beach! This year seems to have brought us all closer together – finding out names, our professions, and a lot of life stories we never shared before. I believe we all grew closer, though not close distance wise because of COVID – our little beach gave us the socialization we have all been so desperately missing. We never see each other from the time swimming

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ends for the year until the next season, so I wanted you to know that you all do have a place in my heart. May we all meet again next year for those four beach months, and may it be a happier time in the world for all of us by then. Jocelyn Emary, Gibsons

Government spending Are we ever going to reign in government spending and ever-increasing taxes on every aspect of our lives? What will happen when interest rates return to more normal values of five to seven percent on our debt? Half of the taxes collected will go to servicing the debt, leaving little for social programs like Medicare. Have a look at Venezuela to see what happens to a country when expenditures exceed revenue over many years. We were there before COVID-19 which has only made it much worse. Gordon Politeski, Halfmoon Bay

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters to the Editor should be sent by e-mail to editor@ t h e l o c a l w e e k l y. 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, September 10, 2020 5

Darwin debates other Green hopefuls Three BC Green Party leadership candidates faced off in a debate aired on YouTube on Sept. 1. The event was joined by an audience of close to 600. The only departure from the business-like proceedings was the lead into Sechelt-based candidate and entrepreneur Kim Darwin’s closing remarks. The discussion prior to the closing focused on the impacts of the opioid crisis. Darwin spoke about attending a service marking the drug overdose death of a 22-year-old acquaintance. She needed a moment to maintain composure before reiterating her plan for a provincial “resilient green recovery” from the pandemic should she win her party’s leadership. On Aug. 31, International Overdose Awareness Day, Darwin added a commitment to adopt new methods to address mental health, addictions, and homelessness to that plan. Other components are early childhood education, affordable housing, local food security and a de-carbonized BC economy. The 90-minute debate involving candidates Darwin, Cam Brewer and Sonia Furstenau was moderated by Global BC television news anchor Neetu Garcha. Only one exchange between the leadership hopefuls verged on discord. During candidate to candidate questioning, Furstenau asked Brewer how

he planned to lead the party and his initial run for a seat in the provincial legislature at the same time. Brewer responded that he had over thirty years of “successful team building” in his professional, political, and personal life. All candidates committed to work by the existing agreement with the BC New Democratic Party to permit the current minority government to continue operations. All three also stated support for seeking “evidence-based solutions” to the opioid crisis. The debate was one of eight events held to familiarize the public with the candidates and their views. Pre-recorded questions were asked by representatives of small businesses, students, the technology sector, the BC Civil Liberties Association,

and a harm reduction advocacy group. No live audience input was included. Chat room posts questioned that exclusion. Others commented that the time allowed for the candidate responses to questions was too brief. One party was repeatedly blocked from commenting by the chat room manager. Following those attempts, the manager posted that the use of foul or disrespectful language would not be tolerated. The BC Greens began their leadership search in January. This followed the resignation of party leader Andrew Weaver due to personal health reasons. The voting will take place between Sept. 5 and 13. Those registered will cast ballots online or via telephone. Connie Jordison

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Drowning off Keats Island On Sept. 6, 2020, at approximately 4:00pm Emergency Health Services called police to assist with a male found in the water off the northern tip of Keats Island in medical distress. Police arrived at the Gib-

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ter with friends. The victim had gone swimming a few minutes before he was found in distress. The BC Coroners Service is now investigating to officially determine the cause of death. Submitted by RCMP

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. Council meetings can be viewed in person in the Community Room beside the library. Participants must maintain a 2-meter distance from staff and other participants and masks are required by all participants. Chairs can not be moved. • Committee of the Whole: September 9 at 3:00pm. • Regular Council Meeting: September 16 at 7:00pm.

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.

Zoning Bylaw Update

Nicole Green, terminal attendant at the Langdale terminal, showcasing the Whale Trail – a series of shore-based locations to view marine mammals along the Pacific Coast. BC Ferries also installed interpretive signs at Tsawwassen terminal and Little River terminal in Comox to show where whales may be seen. BC FERRIES PHOTO

A zoning bylaw is the bylaw the District follows to decide on things like housing density, farm use in the agricultural land reserve, backyard chickens (we call this urban agriculture), home-based businesses and short-term rentals. We are ready to update that bylaw to ensure it aligns with your values and priorities. We will be reaching out to you in the coming weeks to share your thoughts with us. Watch our website, social media pages and ads in this newspaper to learn more. www.sechelt.ca | info @ sechelt.ca | 604-885-1986

The Local - Thursday, September 10, 2020

Local

the

BACK TO SCHOOL

How parents can pitch in to prevent bullying Parents go to great lengths to protect their children. Keeping a watchful eye is a great way to protect kids when they’re around the house, but parents may need

to look for more subtle signs to determine if their children are being mistreated when they leave home. According to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research,

at least one in three adolescent students in Canada have reported being bullied recently. In fact, Canada has the ninth highest rate of bullying in the 13-years-olds category

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on a scale of 35 countries. Parents might once have written off bullying as part of growing up, but research has long since indicated that bullying can be very harmful to youngsters. The research indicates that persistent bullying can lead to or exacerbate feelings of isolation, rejection, exclusion, and despair. Children who are persistently bullied also may experience new or worsening feelings of anxiety and depression. Parents can play a vital role in preventing bullying. Much of that role involves parents educating themselves about bullying, including what it is and what it’s not and what are some warning signs that a child is involved in bullying. What is bullying? The website Stopbullying.gov defines bullying as unwanted, aggressive behaviour among school-aged children that involves a real or perceived imbalance of power. Bullying behaviour is repeated or has the potential to be repeated over time. The imbalance of power associated with bullying involves the children who bully using some semblance of power they have over the children they’re bullying to harm or control those youngsters. Their power may be physical strength, access to embarrassing information or popularity. What isn’t bullying? Various types of aggressive behaviour have the potential to be harmful, but they do not fall under the umbrella of bullying. For example, Stopbullying.gov notes that children between the ages of three and five are learning how to coexist with one another, including how to share and cooperate. Chil-

Girls are more likely to be bullied on the Internet than boys. METRO CREATIVE PHOTO

dren in these age groups may be aggressive if they don’t get what they want, but their actions in such instances do not constitute bullying. More information about potentially harmful, non-bullying behaviours is available at Stopbullying.gov. What are some signs a child is being bullied? Not all children who are being bullied exhibit warning signs. In addition, some signs might be more subtle than others. But some potential indicators that a child is being bullied include: • Unexplainable injuries • Lost or destroyed clothing, books, electronics, or jewelry • Frequent headaches or stomach aches, feeling sick or faking illness • Changes in eating habits, like suddenly skipping meals or binge eating. For example, children who are being bullied may come home from school hungry because they did not eat lunch. • Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares • Declining grades, loss of interest in schoolwork, or not wanting to go to school • Sudden loss of friends or avoidance of social situations • Feelings of helplessness or decreased self-esteem

• Self-destructive behaviours such as running away from home, harming themselves, or talking about suicide What are some signs a child is bullying other children? Parents also should be on the lookout for signs their children are bullying other youngsters. Such signs include: • Kids get into physical or verbal altercations • Children have friends who bully others • Increasingly aggressive behaviour • Frequent trips to the principal’s office or detention • Kids have extra money or new belongings but cannot explain how they got the cash or items • Kids blame others for their problems • An unwillingness to accept responsibility for their actions • Kids are competitive and worry about their reputation or popularity Parents have a vital role to play in preventing bullying, so all youngsters feel safe and sound inside and outside of school. Metro Creative Connection

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BACK TO SCHOOL

The Local - Thursday, September 10, 2020 7

Driver awareness for back to school safety While 2020 has brought new safety protocols and regulations across the spectrum of day-to-day life, not every safety issue is a new discussion. As a new academic year approaches, the Canada Safety Council wants to remind you that school buses will be returning to the roads. Exercising caution and being attentive is always of paramount importance and particularly so as school activity resumes. “The quieter roads over the

spring and summer have had a positive influence in creating a more relaxed driving experience,” said Gareth Jones, president and CEO of the Canada Safety Council. “However, we are headed back into a school season where we can expect a sharp increase in vehicle activity. With that increase, it is so very important to remind ourselves that we need to plan more time for the drive, heighten our situational awareness and call upon our reserve in patience as we all adjust to

the changes in traffic. Road safety happens individual by individual and moment by moment, which means that each of us has a role to play in keeping the roads safe.” School buses have a longstanding history of safety and, in fact, are known to be the safest way to transport children to and from school. However, according to Transport Canada, 79 percent of all school-aged fatalities involving a school bus occur outside the bus and in or near

school bus loading zones. It’s our collective responsibility as road users to do our part in keeping children safe before they get on the bus and after they get off, too. As a motorist, always keep up a scan of your surroundings and make a note of any school-aged children waiting by the road. Be prepared to stop if there’s an approaching bus. Provincial and municipal laws and by-laws may vary, but generally forbid passing a school bus when its signal lights are flashing,

and its stop sign is extended — this is to protect children who may need to cross the road or interact with traffic. Be sure you’re aware of specific school bus laws in your region. The predictable behaviours we expect of adults interacting with traffic may not be fully developed in children, meaning that it’s always best to err on the side of caution and anticipate sudden and unusual movements when children are present. Drive slowly and cautiously, leaving

plenty of time and space for you to react if necessary. School zones are another area where caution is vital, as it provides a mix of vulnerable road users and transient traffic that includes cyclists, pedestrians, buses and personal vehicles. Always follow the posted speed limit, being mindful of your surroundings and obeying directives from crossing guards where applicable. Submitted by Canada Safety Council

Talk of The Town

tern Festival, Music in the Landing, the highly anticipated return of Sea Cavalcade, and others. However, some events are being re-imagined and are proceeding on Zoom and other platforms; 3. Many public sports and other recreation activities have been stopped or curtailed and are only now beginning to resume at much reduced levels; 4. Ferry travel has become a challenge and has discouraged many visitors who in the past might have vacationed here or come over for day trips; 5. Restaurants, coffee shops, and other stores have had to reduce service levels in order to comply with provincial orders. Despite this, our local

businesses have risen to the challenge and found creative ways to continue to provide services, and they are to be thanked and supported in their efforts as we continue to emphasize the need to ‘buy local’; 6. Parties, weddings, funerals and other traditional family gatherings have been reduced in size and scope in order to prevent spread of the disease; 7. Many people have been isolated, especially seniors, who are the most vulnerable group in our population; 8. Drug overdoses have increased, and in some cases, crime has also risen; 9. Our youth and children have been impacted as the school year ended with closures and is set to start up

this month under new rules and procedures which we, as adults, never experienced. As we move into fall, let’s not forget what we have learned and experienced together. We must continue to practice good hygiene, be patient and support each other. None of us asked for this, and it is only by working togeth-

er that we will continue to be safe and set an example to other communities as we anticipate the second wave of COVID-19. This is also an opportunity to stock up on staples and personal protection equipment so that we are not caught short when they are needed. Doctor Bonnie Henry re-

cently commented, “We are entering a new phase of the pandemic, and whether we’re in the second wave or the second bump, we all need to do our part to reduce community spread of the virus.” Whatever we have been doing has worked for our communities, so please, don’t stop now. Thank you.

Bill Beamish Mayor, Town of Gibsons

As we come to the end of summer and what for many of us is an opportunity to resume our normal community lives, it is a good time to reflect on how COVID-19 has and continues to impact us all: 1. We have become used to social distancing, living in a bubble with others, wearing face masks and lining up to take our turn to shop or wait for services; 2. We have missed out on many community events, such as the Jazz Festival, Lan-

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The Local - Thursday, September 10, 2020

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• Art Exhibition: Matthew Talbot-Kelly – Doctor Kali Gehry’s Cabinet of (in) Curiosities and Ecstatic Nonsense, 11am-4pm, Gibsons Public Art Gallery

Friday, September 11

• Hanging Air Plant Terrarium Workshop, create your own piece of living art, Deluxe Landscaping, Sechelt, 5:30-6:30pm, call 604-885-9070 for info and to reserve a seat

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• Live Music: Geoff Berner, Roberts Creek Legion, 4-8pm, tickets at rclegionevents.com

Saturday, September 12

Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia bed & bath collections Check the BC RECY Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia • Last Gibsons history walking tour with 604-RECYCLE (732-9253) www.rcbc DOCTOR KALI GEHRY’S CABINET OF www.rcbc.caDale Peterson, meet at Pioneer Park, 1-800-667-4321 CUDDLEDOWN BROME (in) CURIOSITIES & ECSTATIC NONSENSE by donation, 10-11:30am DOWN DUVETS A NEO-DADA CABINET OF CURIOSITIES Recycling council of B.c.drop-in, MeMBeR Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR Recycling council of PRESENTED IN AN OPEN STUDIO FORMAT ON SPECIAL!! • Sechelt Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market, by Matthew talbot-Kelly

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• Live music in the Atrium, Gibsons Public Market, 1-800-667-4321 2:30-4:30pm • Lounge Night with Shine: local duo, piano Recycling council of B.c.High MeMBeR and vocals (Ken and Nancy), Beam Dreams, Gibsons, 7pm, tickets at Eventbrite.ca

Sunday, September 13

• Last one-hour historical boat tour of Howe Sound, meet 9:50am at Gibsons wharf, tickets at Rainflorist on Molly’s Lane (604-786-5793), info at 604-886-1424 • Gibsons Farmers Market and Car-Free Sundays @ Persephone, over 20 vendors, live music from 12-2, Persephone Brewing, Gibsons

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• Live Music: The Blue Line Duo featuring Gary Gilbert aka Dr. Fun and Reverend Christopher Jordan Knox, on the patio at The Clubhouse Restaurant – Pender Harbour Golf Club, 2-5pm

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THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS! Contact Kaytee today to reserve your spot!

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

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• The Burying Ground Live with Forster and Devora, Roberts Creek Legion, 2-6pm, tickets at rclegionevents.com

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

@TheLocalWeekly

The Local - Thursday, September 10, 2020 9

through Continuing Education, SPIDER, and Sunshine Coast Alternative School.

What protocols are being followed? The 2020 school year will look very different. As part of the safety protocol, students will be in Learning Groups. Elementary learning groups will be a maximum

of 60 students, and secondary learning groups will be a maximum of 120. Learning groups will not interact with each other. Other protocols in place are: • Staggered start/end times, as well as staggered recess and lunch, will eliminate large groups. • The two-metre social distancing policy is expected, and in situations that this isn’t possible such as common areas, then masks are to be worn by staff and students should they choose. • Daytime custodial in-class cleaning and desk and high touch surface wipe downs. • Additional hand sanitizing stations throughout the schools. • Distribution of reusable facemasks to staff and students upon request. • Directional floor markings to help reduce hallway congestion. • Additional desk spacing and one-way positioning to help create distancing for students and classroom teachers.

Returning to school this September will be a new experience for many of us in our community. Some children will be starting school for the first time. Others are choosing to stay home and dive into online learning. Amid fears of contracting COVID-19 are general school concerns about making friends, learning new skills, and navigating a new environment. I’m having my own case of back-to-school jitters as I start a new job as the Gibsons and District Public

Library’s Children and Youth Coordinator. Despite the COVID-19 landscape, it’s my goal to continue to connect the library to our youngest community members, and it’s been my pleasure to do so while awarding Summer Reading Club medals to some of our most voracious readers. Whatever your back-toschool jitters may be, the library is here to support you. We have unlimited access to Tumblebooks for animated talking picture books and Kanopy Kids, our new free streaming service, with animated storytelling, language learning, movies, and TV shows. If you’re all Zoomed-out, snuggle up with “Countdown

to Kindergarten” by Alison McGhee, a picture book about a clever girl who’s ready for kindergarten but worried that she can’t tie her shoes. Try “Wemberley Worried,” the classic picture book by Kevin Henkes about a mouse named Wemberley who worries about everything, especially starting school, until she finds a fellow worrywart. “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio is currently my commuter audiobook and puts you into the shoes of a boy with a severe facial deformity as he starts middle school for the first time. “If you have a choice between being right and being kind, choose kind” is the popular quote from “Wonder” and a good mantra for all our jitters.

As we say goodbye to the last long weekend of the summer, plans shift to preparing ourselves and vessels for the fall and winter months. Now is a good time to review your onboard safety procedures such as practicing person overboard, fire drills, and taking on water. Remember that emergencies happen anytime, and the more prepared you are, the more likely the outcome will be successful. Water and air temperatures are falling, and cold-water survival is a hazard yearround in our waters. If you have never checked out Cold Water Bootcamp with Dr. Popsicle, search it out on YouTube, it’s an excellent resource. The 1-10-1 princi-

ple is used to highlight how to best survive cold water immersion. The best piece of safety gear you have is a PFD or lifejacket, wear it, and it can save your life. If wearing a PFD, in general, people have one minute to get their breathing under control, 10 minutes of purposeful movement, and one hour before hypothermia sets in. Studies have shown that simply being aware of how your body is going to react prepares people for the cold. A strong will to live has allowed people to surpass the one hour point until they were able to be rescued. Other important safety measures include filing a trip or sail plan with a responsible person staying on land. It can be as simple as an email that covers who will be onboard, where you are going, how long you will be, and what to do if you are overdue on your return. There are also many

online tools that you can use to file your sail plan. The crew at RCMSAR Station 12 are looking forward to increasing training with COVID-19 protocols in place. The fall will look different for us as we will not be recruiting new members this year. We are focusing on developing the skills of our current crew, given that we lost many of our training opportunities this year. As with many organizations, we are adapting to the new protocols and are doing our best to navigate the uncertainty. Fundraising events have been placed on hold until it is safe to gather again. In the meantime, please consider donating to your local marine or land SAR crew. Head to rcmsar12. org and click on the Donate button to support Station 12, Halfmoon Bay. As always, stay safe and enjoy the beauty of our waters.

If you’re considering moving your family to BC’s Sunshine Coast, know that there’s no shortage of schools. Local School District 46 is well known for the quality of its schools, teachers and programs. There are a total of nine elementary schools with locations stretching from Langdale to Madeira Park. They go from kindergarten up-toand-including grade seven with the exception of Madeira Park Elementary which only goes to grade six. For older students, there is Elphinstone Secondary in Gibsons (8-12), Chatelech Secondary in Sechelt (8-12), and Pender Harbour Elementary/Secondary (7-12). In fact, Elphinstone just ranked in the top 50 of all BC secondary schools. District-wide there are also K-12 programs offered

When do schools start back up? Staff returned on Sept. 8th and 9th for orientation on the new protocols introduced in their respective schools to help mitigate exposure to COVID-19. For students, safety protocol orientations will take place at all schools on Sept. 10 and 11. Students will be divided up either alphabetically or by grade and have assigned times that they will take part in learning the new measures implemented to help keep students and staff safe during these times. Full-time school hours will resume starting Monday, Sept. 14, at all locations.

• Limited school access in terms of doors used to access the building and/or classrooms. With enrollments up this year due to the postCOVID-19 surge in house sales, it is good to know that school administrators are doing all they can to keep everyone healthy. Here are the numbers year over year for Aug. 2019 and Aug. 2020: • August 2019 saw 68 total

sales – 40 of them were single-family detached, and the average price of those homes was $664,831. The average time on market was 58 days, and the total dollar volume of sales was $47,250,000. • August 2020 had 158 total sales – 85 of them were single-family detached houses with the average price of those homes being $839,000. The average time on market has been 33 days, and the total dollar volume of sales was

$110,843,571. Many of these new Coasters have chosen to raise their families here now that they can work from home and because of the excellent schools and teachers in our local School District 46. 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.

Tip of the Week: Mars Retrograde is among the bigger themes underway now. What it implies is that people will be less strident than they have over the past several months. Most significantly, having made strong aspects to Saturn, Pluto, and Jupiter in Capricorn all of which occurred in August, the same aspects will occur on September 29, October 9, and 18 in that order. Each of these events will serve to deepen what actually was initiated in March of 2020 when Mars formed a conjunction with each of these planets. So, this next series of hard aspects will have the effect of deepening the plot specifically regarding government authority and public reaction to it Meanwhile, With the Sun in Virgo, the tendency will be towards more careful consideration of what is deemed to be factual and conclusively true. As well, with Mercury in Libra, the impulse to enter more fully into diplomatic discussions will occur. Much of this focus will be directed to what is fair and just. Aries (Mar. 21 – Apr. 19) Your ruling planet, Mars, now retrograde will synchronize with a shift in your approach. Where you have likely been charging ahead over the past few months, now you are likely to proceed with more caution. At worst, this could leave you feeling impatient, frustrated, and insecure. Other factors encourage you to take a diplomatic approach, especially in your love life. Taurus (Apr. 20 – May 20) You have entered a cycle that will lead you to attend to unfinished business. It will require careful consideration and critical thinking. Much of your focus will be upon home and family. Taking time out from social activities is likely and if you do not you may feel uneasy and impatient. Positively, you are in a mood to create beauty and harmony for you and those who matter most. Gemini (May 21 – June 21) Improvement is a key-

word during Virgo time. Clearing the clutter may be the simplest and best approach. This focus is supported by other factors, as well. Yet, you are also in a mood to be crafty and creative. This may well include social interaction. However, you are also in a mood to dream and to reflect. So, at least some of the influence of this cycle will include receiving inspiration. Cancer (June 22 – July 22) A steady stream of thoughts and ideas are flowing through your mind. Sharing these with significant others will prove extra important. Making key investments to enhance your overall lifestyle is a central theme and focus. In more practical terms, this is a time of decision. Yet, as eager as you are to proceed, you may be dealing with time restraints. A slow but sure pace will probably work best. Leo (July 23 – Aug. 23) Making key adjustments and improvements is a central theme now. The focus will be directed towards practical matters such as your career or business, but may well be directed to your home and living environment as well. Venus in your sign will inspire you to share your love and express yourself in beautiful and creative ways. Those who receive your love will feel blessed. Virgo (Aug. 24 – Sept. 22) A steady march forward continues. While practical considerations are featured, your focus may also be directed to emotional and spiritual concerns and interests. Sublimating physical desires and redirecting the energy to more constructive activities is likely. Yet, this focus could also manifest as sharing inspired and even as poetic sentiments that represent higher causes. Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) Balancing the urge for inner retreat and outer expression continues. The latter may find its most satisfying outlet in the company of friends. The middle ground could be achieved with more intimate encounters as opposed to large and loud gatherings. With so much rumbling going on within, stemming from questions regarding your future direction, you will

prefer quietude. Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) You may be feeling extra protective of your sense of individuality these days. You more than most already feel very determined to honor your unique style and approach no matter what others think about you. And you are not much in the mood to have to explain yourself, either. Yet, you are interested in intimate exchanges with the one(s) you love. Sagittarius (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Practical concerns and considerations are uppermost on your mind these days. Financial matters are high on the list and will include knowledge regarding making investments. However, you are also in the mood to socialize more, as if all of a sudden. This focus includes cultural interests. This could be satisfied by taking a course of study that includes groups of people. Capricorn (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Paying attention to the finer details of a bigger picture perspective on reality continues. This could well include an interest in political matters, especially those linked to the economy and to matters of ethics, law, and justice. Concerns about your own financial affairs and how these are related to larger social and even global affairs are featured. Aquarius (Jan. 20–Feb. 19) You have entered a subtle yet sure process of change and transformation. It could include your physical body, but also your mental attitude and emotional states, as well. This is especially true in your personal life and in your relationship with your significant other. Positively, you will emerge out of this process, which will continue until Autumn Equinox, with a sense of renewal. Pisces (Feb. 20 – Mar. 20) Getting clear about who are the most important people in your life and how you can best relate to them continues. While this focus will include those in your personal life, it may include your public outreach, as well. To this end, you are willing to do some research and make what investments you deem necessary. Your focus is practical and you want results. michael@sunstarastrology.com

The Local - Thursday, September 10, 2020

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The Local - Thursday, September 10, 2020 11

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PAGE BLIND 1/18 AMBITION

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DOWN

1. Sound 2. Crawl

3. Type of duck 4. Small viper 5. Idiomatic expression 6. Flows through France 7. Border 8. Mountain 9. Charter 10. Path 11. Kitchen appliance 12. Join together by heating 13. Raise up 20. Obligation to pay something 22. Air current 26. Alcoholic beverage 28. Regret 29. Atmosphere 30. Chitchat 31. Extol 32. Unit of area 33. Fruit 34. Game played on horseback 35. Ellipse 36. Salacious 37. Mire

40. Distilled from fermented molasses 41. Supply with weapons 43. Fixed charge 44. Panache 45. Lacking in strictness 46. Desiccated 49. Waver 50. Lukewarm 51. Crown-like headdress 52. Wand 53. Remedy 54. Domesticated 55. Young sheep 56. Object of worship 57. Type of star 59. Not at home 61. Annoy 63. Golf pin 65. Bronze

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CALLY OW LO

D NE

42. Jurisprudence 43. Bitter quarrel between 2 parties 45. Pantry 47. Past times 48. Type of tree 49. Cultivate by growing 50. Beverage 51. Cab 52. Nocturnal mammal 55. Track 58. Metal fastener 60. Play 62. Assume 64. Unit of power 66. Detail or point 67. Form of entertainment 68. Region 69. Solitary 70. Knife 71. Thread 72. Conclusion

YEARS

of service

ACROSS

1. Perform 4. Part of a church 8. Permit 13. Entice 14. Cast off 15. Depart 16. Notion 17. Snob 18. Jury 19. Branch of knowledge 21. Afresh 23. Transfer 24. Peak 25. Alleviate 27. Anger 29. Strong and healthy 30. Large antelope 31. Circuit 34. Civilized 37. Manufactured 38. Tennis serve 39. Finished 40. Unforeseen obstacle 41. Nimbus

Solution on page 10 Courtesy of: puzzlechoice.com

Overnight on Sept. 1, a suspect gained entry to a storage shed in the 500 block of Eaglecrest Road, Gibsons, and stole a number of items including black security company gear such as a duty-bag, duty-belts, vest, a black hoodie printed with “SECURITY” on the front and back, a pair of handcuffs, dog-repellent spray, a Kodak still-video combo camera, and assorted hiking gear including a pair of men’s size 10 1/2 brown “Oslo” brand hiking boots. Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to contact RCMP, reference police file 2020-6137. Submitted by RCMP

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The Local - Thursday, September 10, 2020

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*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

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