Every Second Thursday & Online ‘24/7’ at Regional newspaper linking south coastal BC communities since 1989 islandtides.com Volume 24 Number 21 October 18–31, 2012 $2 at Selected Retailers Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement Nº 40020421

Photo: Toby Snelgrove Seals basking on the Belle with Mount Baker in the background. Fare increases and service reductions? Conference to study Islands, seeks proposals Patrick Brown Life on an Island is different. But how is it ‘traditional’ speaking format, but may take other different? And how do we communicate this forms (ie. discussion panels, performance art, The Ferry Commissioner has set ferry fare Point–Tsawwassen Route 30 from service difference? The 2013 Island Studies Conference video). Filax emphasized that presenters do not increases for the next three years at 4.1% in cuts. Conversely, recent indications from the is aiming to do just that. The conference, sub- necessarily have to be affiliated with a university. April 2013, 4.0% in April 2014, and 3.9% in new Transportation Minister, Mary Polak, are titled ‘West Coast and Beyond’, will Conference themes include many aspects of April 2015. This adds up to 12.5% over the next that no routes will be excluded from bring together scholars and community island life, including identity, natural and social three years. consideration of service cuts, and, according to members to dialogue about the unique history, botany, ethnobotany, governance These caps apply to all routes, unlike BC Ferries, a number of cuts on main routes challenges faced by the islands off Canada’s west structures, water and waste management, increases for previous years, which usually have already been made in the winter schedule. coast, and elsewhere. The three-day event, to be fisheries, transportation and economies. The specified higher percentage increases for minor The suggestion of possible service cuts is the held on , is a joint effort of International Small Island Studies Association and northern routes than for the main routes. only result of the government’s review of a Athabasca University, Thompson Rivers (ISISA) will also hold a panel discussion to share This is a result of changes this year in the number of recommendations arising from an University and University, in the history and context of how it sees Island Coastal Ferry Act; it now allows a degree of extensive study carried out by the Ferry association with the International Small Island studies. cross-subsidization between routes. Commissioner earlier this year. That study saw Studies Association (ISISA). The conference could lead to further These fare increases are lower than the Commissioner holding public meetings on The deadline for proposals is coming up; opportunities for research, economic anticipated, thanks to an increase in the Islands throughout the ferry system area. abstracts of 300 words are due November 30. development and information sharing. If you provincial government subsidy. However, the More Consultations The call for entry welcomes ideas from both the have a passion for island communities, want to government also expects that costs will be cut The government now proposes to hold a academic and wider communities. ‘We want to learn more about and overcome the challenges as a result of reducing service on a number of further series of public consultation meetings. draw together islanders and those who study associated with islands, and would like to routes. When they were first announced this summer, islands,’ says conference organizer and Gabriola network with like-minded individuals, visit The government has proposed special their objective was said to be part of ‘the resident Gloria Filax. Presentations can follow a www.islandstudiesconference2013.org. 0 attention to routes with utilization below 55%, government’s commitment to seek public or round trips with utilization of 20% or less. input on strategies to support a long-term Salt Spring governance study announced ~ Sara Miles Specifically, consideration may be given to the vision of connecting coastal communities in an elimination of one round trip per day for part affordable, efficient and sustainable manner’. Salt Spring Islanders will again have the Local trustees George Grams and Peter of the year on routes 6, 7, 8, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, The use of the term ‘sustainable’ here appears opportunity to formally discuss Salt Spring’s Grove campaigned last year for the provincially- 23, 24 and 26 (see chart, page 3). to refer to the profitability of the ferry routes, governance structure and the general sponsored governance study. Together with These are primarily simple routes, rather than the sustainability of the implications of municipal incorporation. The CRD Director McIntyre they submitted the providing back and forth service between two communities. BC government recently approved an $80,000 formal request to the Province in March. ports. The three northern routes, 10, 11, and 40, However, given increasing emphasis on grant for the first phase of a governance study. The Salt Spring Chamber of Commerce serving Port Hardy, Prince Rupert and service cuts, it may now be that Masset Mayor The governance study will help engage the endorsed requests for a study and believes the Skidegate, will also come in for special Andrew Merrilees has a more accurate concept community in discussion, review how the study will benefit the community. In a press attention. of the purpose of the consultations. To quote community is currently being governed, and release, Vice President Matt Steffich stated, Information from an earlier Transportation him: ‘We need more than a consultation for a what has changed on the island in the past ten ‘This initial phase of a governance study, along Minister appeared to exclude the Southern preconceived outcome. They are not looking at years. It will also gauge public support for with the efforts of the CRD’s Community Gulf Islands (Routes 4, 5, 9) and the Duke FERRY FARES, please turn to page 3 doing a second incorporation study. SALT SPRING STUDY, please turn to page 3 is at these SERIOUS COFFEE locations — look for the ‘Island Tides’ yellow boxes outside or racks inside! Sidney—Beacon Avenue Nanaimo—VI Conference Centre Parksville—Heritage Centre Mall South Duncan—Sun Valley Mall Nanaimo—Beaufort Centre Courtenay—Southgate Centre, Cliffe Avenue Nanaimo—Crnr Island Hwy @ Hammond Bay Rd Duncan—Cowichan Commons Mall Port Alberni—Shoppers Drugmart Plaza, 10th Ave Nanaimo—South Parkway Plaza Mill Bay—Island Highway @ Frayne Rd Nanaimo—Hammond Bay Rd CO-OP Campbell River—Willow Point Village Page 2, ISLAND TIDES, October 18, 2012 Islander receives Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal Susan Hamilton ongratulations have been pouring in for Auxiliary he does, nobody hears about. Nevertheless, he hasn’t been able AT POINT ATKINSON Constable Michel Pelletier of , who to escape notice entirely. He has served on boards and helped OCTOBER–NOVEMBER received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal out at countless fundraisers including the a campaign for a 19- atC an October 2 ceremony in Victoria, at RCMP Island District month-old Pender child who was diagnosed with cancer last Day Time Ht./ft. Ht./m. Day Time Ht./ft. Ht./m. Headquarters. Pelletier is one of 60,000 Canadians who are year. For that event, Pelletier donned his RCMP uniform and 0006 2.3 0.7 0203 11.8 3.6 being honoured for was handcuffed to a 0701 15.1 4.6 0749 7.2 2.2 17WE 1228 9.5 2.9 25TH 1419 14.4 4.4 outstanding achievements makeshift jail cell at Port 1747 14.8 4.5 2104 6.2 1.9 and contributions to their Browning Pub. People had 0051 1.6 0.5 0312 12.5 3.8 community and country. to donate money to bail 0758 15.1 4.6 0849 7.9 2.4 ‘I was totally shocked,’ him out. ‘But after $600,’ 18TH 1321 10.2 3.1 26FR 1454 14.1 4.3 1828 14.4 4.4 2140 5.2 1.6 said Pelletier when he said Pelletier, ‘they started 0138 2.0 0.6 0409 13.1 4.0 heard that he was receiving paying to keep me in!’ 0858 15.1 4.6 0940 8.5 2.6 the medal. ‘I had no idea As a graphic designer, 19FR 1423 10.5 3.2 27SA 1526 14.1 4.3 1914 13.8 4.2 2214 4.6 1.4 that I’d been nominated.’ Pelletier has contributed 0229 2.3 0.7 0457 13.8 4.2 The nomination came hours of layout and 1000 15.1 4.6 1026 8.9 2.7 from Corporal Linda production work to 20SA 1538 10.5 3.2 28SU 1555 13.8 4.2 2009 12.8 3.9 2247 3.9 1.2 Simpson, who was the organizations such as the 0324 3.3 1.0 0540 14.1 4.3 Outer Gulf Islands Pender Islands 1102 15.1 4.6 1109 9.5 2.9 Detachment Commander Conservancy Association, 21SU 1705 10.2 3.1 29MO 1623 13.8 4.2 2120 11.8 3.6 2319 3.6 1.1 at the time. She cites the Fall Fair and the Pender Pelletier’s commitment in Island Choral Society. In 0425 4.3 1.3 0621 14.4 4.4 1201 15.1 4.6 1149 9.8 3.0 terms of time, volunteer 2010, he spent more than 22MO 1828 9.5 2.9 30TU 1651 13.5 4.1 service, and his care and 400 hours helping to 2253 11.5 3.5 2351 3.6 1.1 concern for people as the produce Pender Cooks!, a 0532 5.2 1.6 0701 14.8 4.5 1254 14.8 4.5 1228 10.5 3.2 reasons for his nomination. recipe book that has 23TU 1933 8.5 2.6 31WE 1717 13.1 4.0 Corporal Simpson feels generated over $10,000 for that Pelletier’s the Firefighters Benevolent 0035 11.2 3.4 0022 3.3 1.0 0642 6.2 1.9 0741 14.8 4.5 commitment to the Fund. 24WE 1340 14.8 4.5 TH1 1309 10.8 3.3 community is best Pelletier’s commitment 2023 7.2 2.2 1744 13.1 4.0 understood by the level of to community has not been ADD ONE HOUR TO TIMES FOR FULL MOON OCTOBER 29 dedication he shows in his confined to Pender Island. work for the RCMP. Corporal Simpson points        ‘Michel is an invaluable AUXILIARY CONSTABLE MICHEL PELLETIER out that through his work asset to this Detachment,’ in the Outer Gulf Islands said Simpson. Since 2006, he has put in over 5,000 volunteer Detachment, he was introduced to a community much larger hours, sometimes working 16-hour days. ‘He has responded than that of the Penders. ‘He accepted all of the Gulf Islands 24/7 to all of the Gulf Islands, never hesitating to take the police communities as part of his own,’ she says. ‘He has touched the boat out in 4- to 6-foot seas, severe wind, rain and fog.’ lives of many.’ Last summer, Pelletier and Constable Brian Davie of Mayne Pelletier is surprised and embarrassed by the amount of Island rescued a kayaker from drowning in . It was attention he’s attracted since receiving the Diamond Jubilee a difficult rescue in adverse seas, with two BC Ferries bearing Medal. ‘I can’t buy groceries without someone stopping me,’ he down on them. Both men were commended by the District says. And he’s been inundated with congratulations on           Commander for their exemplary actions and dedication to duty. Facebook. ‘Way to go, Mike!’ ‘Well-deserved.’ ‘We are so proud Since coming to Pender Island in 1994, Pelletier has given a of you!’  !            ! "  # $         % & ""  " great deal to the community, but it was like pulling teeth to get But no matter how they say it, people are thinking the same "  '  !        !% &  any information out of him. That’s not surprising; a lot of what thing: ‘It’s about time.’ 0     "  "  (#   BC-wide day of action to oppose pipelines, tankers       hirty-five communities, from Victoria to Campbell River which has been endorsed by more than 80 community, union, " ! %! ) *  %+,,%--.%/ to Prince George, are planning a province-wide ‘Defend business and Aboriginal leaders, including David Suzuki, Stephen Our Coast’ day of action to show growing opposition to Lewis and Chief Jackie Thomas of the Yinka Dene Alliance. theT risks posed by tar sands pipelines and tankers. Rallies will be ‘As a tradesperson in Northern BC, I know that environmental held at MLAs’ offices across the province on Wednesday, October protection, climate stability, and economic security are 24, and participants will link arms to symbolize BC’s unbroken intertwined,’ said Karen Anderson, a local event organizer and AT FULFORD HARBOUR wall of opposition. journeyman carpenter in Prince George. ‘To me, the risk of a OCTOBER–NOVEMBER Local volunteers are organizing the events, with province-wide pipeline spill or a tanker accident is just too great. Too much is at support and facilitation by online campaign organization stake.’ Day Time Ht./ft. Ht./m. Day Time Ht./ft. Ht./m. Leadnow.ca. Support for the community-based events reflects recent 0655 10.8 3.3 0132 8.2 2.5 ‘The majority of British Columbians have serious concerns polling data by Stratcom that shows a majority of British 1139 7.9 2.4 0701 5.2 1.6 17WE 1652 10.8 3.3 25TH 1354 10.5 3.2 about the expansion of tar sands pipelines and tankers,’ said Columbians oppose the proposed Enbridge and Kinder Morgan 2036 4.9 1.5 Nadia Nowak, Local Outreach Coordinator for Leadnow.ca. pipelines. 0003 1.0 0.3 0253 8.5 2.6 ‘People from all walks of life–First Nations, ranchers, fishermen, ‘Despite the clear opposition of British Columbians, the federal 0755 10.8 3.3 0759 6.2 1.9 18TH 1237 8.5 2.6 26FR 1423 10.2 3.1 business owners, foresters, teachers–are stepping up and coming government is trying to ram pipelines through our province, and 1730 10.5 3.2 2108 4.3 1.3 together like never before to form a wall of opposition and call on our provincial government is sitting on the fence, suggesting that 0052 1.0 0.3 0356 9.2 2.8 our provincial leaders to defend our coast.’ BC’s coast can be bought,’ said Nowak. ‘These local events will 0858 11.2 3.4 0851 6.6 2.0 The day of action will follow the Defend Our Coast mass sit-in make a powerful visual statement to show the unprecedented 19FR 1348 8.9 2.7 27SA 1448 10.2 3.1 1813 10.2 3.1 2137 3.6 1.1 planned for October 22 at the provincial legislature in Victoria, depth and breadth of this movement, and make sure our 0145 1.6 0.5 0449 9.8 3.0 politicians know that we are organizing in the communities they 0959 11.2 3.4 0940 7.2 2.2 represent,’ said Nowak. 20SA 1518 8.9 2.7 28SU 1511 9.8 3.0 1903 9.5 2.9 2206 3.0 0.9 DOCK BUILDING For more about the Defend Our Coast Day of Action, visit: 0 0242 2.0 0.6 0536 10.2 3.1 www.defendourcoast.ca/actions. 1059 11.2 3.4 1027 7.9 2.4 COMPONENTS & ACCESSORIES 21SU 1659 8.2 2.5 29MO 1534 9.8 3.0 FOR SEPTIC WASTEWATERWWASTEWASTEWASTEWAATER TREATMENTTREATMENT SYSTEMS 2010 8.9 2.7 2235 2.6 0.8 E-Z BUILD DOCK KIT 0342 3.0 0.9 0620 10.5 3.2 Ask for the Eljen GSF 1153 11.2 3.4 1113 8.2 2.5 22MO 1820 7.5 2.3 30TU 1557 9.8 3.0 2147 8.2 2.5 2305 2.3 0.7 ‹ Time-proven for over 25 years ‹ No maintenance required 0448 3.9 1.2 0702 10.5 3.2 1240 10.8 3.3 1201 8.5 2.6 ‹ Lower overall cost 23TU 1917 6.6 2.0 31WE 1621 9.8 3.0 • FLOATATION & FRAME HARDWARE ‹ Fits any lot shape 2348 7.9 2.4 2337 2.3 0.7 • LADDERS & BUMPERS ‹ Best choice for 0556 4.6 1.4 0744 10.8 3.3 • CLEATS, DECKING & MORE sensitive lakeside properties 1320 10.8 3.3 1252 8.9 2.7 24WE 2000 5.9 1.8 TH1 1645 9.5 2.9 ‹ Passive system—no power required Authorized Representative: ADD ONE HOUR TO TIMES FOR DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME BWD Engineering Inc. Tide Table Courtesy of Phone: (604) 789-2204 Durable dock systems for [email protected] Web: www.bwdeng.ca exposed locations MOORING & FOAM FILLED FLOATATION Ross Walker MARKER BUOYS MOLDED & CUSTOM 250-537-9710 Email: [email protected] barrplastics.com • 1-800-665-4499 On Time & On Budget CORPORATION eljen.com www.islandmarine.ca Wholesale Distributors to Contractors & DIY’s for over 40 years www.islandtides.com ISLAND TIDES, October 18, 2012, Page 3 Ducks guilty in mass deaths Patrick Brown Canada’s sovereignty threatened: he deaths of over 550 ducks on oily tar sands tailings ponds in October 2010 was their own fault, according to what we are giving to China the Alberta Environment Department. As a result, no Elizabeth May, MP chargesT will be laid against Syncrude and Suncor, owners of the toxic ponds near Fort McMurray and the Athabasca River. n the last edition of Island Tides, I detailed my fears about investment that went belly up. A report by a University of Alberta biologist, Colleen Cassady the Canada-China version of the Foreign Investment One improvement over NAFTA Chapter 11 is a list of St Clair, also blamed strong winds, freezing rain and poor Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPPA). In Question ‘exceptions.’ Unless the actions are ‘arbitrary or unjustifiable’ or visibility. According to her report, ‘The weather during, and Period,I I had asked about when we would see the text, which can be seen as a ‘disguised restriction of trade,’ the treaty says especially preceding, the landings included a major storm event was announced back in February when the Prime measures to protect health, safety or the environment with high wind speeds and changing wind directions, exactly the Minister was in China, and signed on September 9 are exempted. I am very doubtful these exceptions conditions that hinder migration.’ The report concluded that most in Vladivostok, where both President Hu and the ‘… raise will make any real difference as the complaint of the birds that died on the ponds became covered in bitumen, Prime Minister attended the APEC meetings. process is secret and China is going to have the while others died from ‘blunt trauma’ from hitting the ground. On September 26, a day after my Island the alarm stronger economic clout to force Canada to In a CBC interview, St Clair also suggested that the birds Tides deadline, with no press release or about this agree. The damage claims start with six could be confused from strong industrial lighting and the briefing, the Parliamentary Secretary to the months of diplomatic negotiation. If that fails, relative blackness of the tailings ponds. Bird-scaring equipment, Minister of Foreign Affairs rose in the House to treaty.’ damage claims move to arbitration behind namely gas-powered cannons, was apparently in operation table a few documents. It was during a part of closed doors. during the duck landings. She expressed the probability that every day called ‘Routine Proceedings.’ The media In those secret hearings, no other level of that the ducks were navigating by a combination of the earth’s had sped off for scrums after Question Period. I was government–even if it is the government that made magnetic fields and the Athabasca River, and that future such waiting my turn to table petitions. Maybe another twenty MPs the decision China challenges–has any right to intervene or events might be minimized if the tailings ponds were not located were in the Chamber when Deepak Obhrai tabled a deal with attend the arbitration. No other interested parties are included. so close to the river. Norway and two with China: the agreement for peaceful use of A One-way Street Alberta Premier Alison Redford was quoted as saying, nuclear energy, and the ‘Agreement between the Government Although the Harper Conservatives claim the deal is about ‘Sometimes, incidents happen. The test is in the integrity of the of Canada and the Government of the People’s Republic of protecting Canadian companies doing business in China, the system that responds to this circumstance and I think that it’s China for the Promotion and Reciprocal Protection of deal is lop-sided in favour of China. For example, Canada could very important we had independent experts providing evidence Investments’ (the Canada-China Investment Treaty). not demand ‘performance standards’ (percentage Canadian on that.’ The nuclear deal is a cover for our sales of uranium to China. jobs or materials for example) of a Chinese SOE. But China can The Crown prosecutor expressed the opinion that there was Under the terms of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, no make demands against and create hurdles for Canadian no probability of convicting the two companies, and so declined country is to sell nuclear materials to a country with nuclear companies. to lay charges. weapons unless it can absolutely guarantee a system of Restricting Use of Our Own Resources Greenpeace spokesperson Mike Hudema pointed out that verifications and monitoring to ensure uranium for peaceful The Canada-China Investment Treaty requires that if, in the the ducks would not have died if the tailings ponds had not been uses does not end up in nuclear weapons. The two-page deal future, Canada wants to conserve natural resources (fisheries, there. St Clair recommended that tailings ponds should not be released on September 26 can not do that. water, oil, uranium, forests–everything is covered), and reduce located within 3½ miles of the Athabasca River. The more far-reaching deal is the second. It is the one my Chinese access to these resources, we are only allowed to do so No representative of the ducks was available to comment. 0 last column was focused upon. It does, in fact, set out a series of to the extent we limit our own use of those natural resources. obligations for Canada, new rights for Chinese state-owned On October 1, I asked the Speaker for an Emergency Debate enterprises, and fails to deliver on reciprocity for Canadian SALT SPRING STUDY from page 1 on the treaty. I explained in a letter I had tabled with the Speaker companies operating in China. Worse yet, it will not be voted Economic Development Commission to craft an economic on September 28 (available at www.elizabethmaymp.ca) all the on in the House. It will be automatically enacted 21 sitting days development strategy for the island, will move us in a positive reasons that it was an emergency. Sadly, he ruled that it was not from when it was tabled. By November 1, barring a miracle, a case for an emergency debate. direction.’ Canada will be bound for the next 15 years (minimum) to these I asked in Question Period on October 4, with 16 sitting days Murray Coell, MLA for Saanich North and the Islands, said terms. If a future government wants to get out of it, one year left until the treaty takes effect, whether the Prime Minister had ‘it’s about getting the facts out there and gathering feedback notice is required. And even once the treaty is cancelled, any chosen to approve this treaty by Order in Council to keep its about what residents want.’ existing Chinese operations in Canada are guaranteed another details from Canadians or to avoid having to force Conservative Reasons cited for favouring incorporation include the 15 years of the treaty’s benefits. MPs to vote for something they did not believe in. potential for facilitation of development proposals, improved Canada must promote and encourage Chinese investments House Leader Peter Van Loan said there could be debate if access to government funds, and having a greater number of in Canada (Article 3). Chinese government-controlled an Opposition Party chose to use one of its Opposition Days to elected representatives on a council. However, in 2007 a companies operating in Canada must be treated exactly the do so. I cannot get either the Liberals or the NDP to agree to give referendum to double representation on Council same as Canadian companies (Article 6). it an Opposition Day. But even if they did, it is not the same as was defeated. China’s Right To Claim Damages submitting the treaty to the process in the House. Others would prefer to consider alternatives to Over Canadian Laws True, treaty-making is a Royal Prerogative, meaning it does incorporation, such as Salt Spring activist Jan Slakov who The Canada-China Investment Treaty allows Chinese not have to go before the House. Nevertheless, the House has commented, ‘[the study] assumes we only have two choices: the companies (including state-owned enterprises) to sue Canada been debating C-42, the Canada-Panama trade agreement since status quo or incorporation.’ over decisions that can limit or reduce their expectation of last spring (total volume of trade $213 million) and we had six The 2002 Referendum profits. In treaty language, this is called ‘tantamount to days debate in the House and six days in Committee before A full incorporation study was completed in 2002. Just over expropriation.’ China can claim damages against Canada for passing C-23, the Canada-Jordan trade agreement (volume of half of eligible voters cast ballots in the resultant referendum, decisions at the municipal, provincial, territorial or federal level. trade $90 million.) This sweeping deal with China is not due for and 70% of voters opposed incorporation. A similar referendum Even decisions of our courts can give rise to damages. a single hour of debate before passage ($64 billion trade volume). on Gabriola Island in 2004 found 87% of voters opposed. A similar deal between China and Belgium now has Belgium Please join me in trying to raise the alarm about this treaty. A factor that may have contributed to the opposition was 0 dealing with a $3 billion claim by China for a banking We do not have much time left. that incorporation would have increased property taxes by up to $200 for homeowners and $600 for local businesses. The 2002 Governance Study is available online at FERRY FARES from page 1 Routes & Capacity Utilization, 2011 new models; they are just looking at ways to slash services.’ www.islandstrust.bc.ca/tc/governance.cfm, under the heading The consultations will be carried out at a cost of $594,000 Rte 1 Swartz Bay–Tsawwassen ______77% ‘Community Governance Reviews’. More details about the by Kirk & Co Consulting Limited. Kirk & Co is headed by Judy Rte 12 Mill Bay–Brentwood Bay ______75% structure of the upcoming governance study will be available Kirk, who was executive director of the BCLiberal caucus from Rte 2 Horseshoe Bay–Departure Bay ______61% after local government representatives meet with the provincial 0 1994-1996. The firm, which has conducted similar work for BC Rte 3 Langdale–Horseshoe Bay ______56% government mid-October. Hydro, TransLink and the City of Vancouver, won the contract Rte 4 Fulford Harbour–Swartz Bay______56% in competition with eight other organizations. Rte 8 Horseshoe Bay– ______53% The consultation work was originally scheduled to start in Rte 30 Duke Point–Tsawwassen ______51% August, but now is expected to take place this fall and winter. Rte 19 Nanaimo Harbour–Gabriola Is. ______48% The Ferry Advisory Committee Chairs have requested a Rte 11 Skidegate–Prince Rupert ______48% Rte 24 Quadra Island–Cortes Island______47% FLU SEASON IS HERE meeting with the consultants in order to assist them in If you are eligible for a free flu shot, Rte 23 Campbell River–Quadra Island ______45% identifying the issues that might be raised. Kirk has not please bring your Care Card to a Flu Clinic: Rte 9 Tsawwassen–Long Harbour ______44% responded to Island Tides’ request for an interview about the : Wed, Nov 28, 1:30-4:00pm Rte 10 Port Hardy–Prince Rupert ______44% consultation process. Lions Hall, 992 Burrill Rd Rte 21 Buckley Bay–Denman West ______41% The continuing and relentless increases in ferry fares over the : Mon, Nov 5, 12:30-3:30pm Rte 22 Denman East– ______41% Mayne Island Community Centre, 493 Felix Jack Rd past ten years since the ferries were ‘privatized’ have probably Rte 5 Swartz Bay–Southern Gulf Is. ______40% PENDER ISLAND: Tues, Nov 6, 10:00am-2:00pm contributed to the steady reduction in ridership and to increasing Rte 25 Port McNeill–Alert Bay ______38% Community Hall, 4418 Bedwell Hbr Rd operating losses at BC Ferries. NDPFerry Critic Gary Coons has Rte 6 Crofton–Vesuvius Bay ______38% : Tues, Oct 30, 10:30am-3:00pm & also criticized the ferries for increasing their ‘cruise ship tourism Rte 17 Little River–Powell River ______34% Thur, Nov 29, 10:30am-2:00pm, Community Gospel Church, 147 Vesuvius Bay Rd product’ beyond what was required for a ferry service that is part Rte 20 Chemainus–Thetis Island______30% of the highway network. : Wed, Dec 5, 11:00am-3:00pm Rte 40 Port Hardy–Mid-coast______30% Saturna Recreation Centre Lounge, 104 Harris Rd He says: ‘Since Day One, we had a social and economic Rte 7 Earls Cove–Saltery Bay ______28% This schedule is subject to change. Check www.viha.ca/flu or call Health Link BC at contract with the communities that depend on the ferries for Rte 18 Texada–Powell River ______26% 8-1-1 to confirm and to find out if you are eligible for a FREE flu Shot. If you are not eligible, goods and services. We have got to get back to that and treat it Rte 26 Skidegate–Alliford Bay______22% please contact your physician or local pharmacy about vaccine availability and cost. like an essential link.’ 0 www.islandtides.com Page 4, ISLAND TIDES, October 18, 2012 Readers’ Letters Déjà Vu ‘Keep It Clean’ Visual Petition Dear Editor: Dear Editor: I remember reading this article six years ago in Island Tides: I live on a sailboat. My ‘backyard’ is Georgia and Johnstone Every Second Thursday ‘Supermarkets and service stations competing for grain’ (August Straits. And, yes, I am a NIMBY. To anyone who wants to ’s only Free & Mail-Delivered Newspaper 24, 2006 edition). After this news on September 30, ‘Shortage transport Alberta’s tar sands oil through BC’s pristine of grain for Canadian pork industry threatens increasing costs wilderness to load onto tankers, I say, ‘Not In My Backyard.’ for bacon’, I think you should run this article again. And say, We all know what the dire environmental consequences will 20,500 copies this edition ‘Why are we not listening?’ be if several hundred oil tankers begin traversing BC’s coastal 14,447 print copies delivered to Dave Ehrismann, Nanaimo waters every year, if the Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline Gulf Island households Interesting Article project is approved, and if Kinder Morgan doubles the volume Dear Editor: of tar sands oil transported to Vancouver. It’s not a question of I picked up your October 4 edition on BC Ferries yesterday and ‘if’, rather when and where. read about the hikes on Saturna that have recently been And we all know what it will mean to us when places we love organized (page 10). I live in Sidney, BC and enjoy exploring the are damaged, perhaps beyond repair. (Anyone who doubts the Gulf Islands. I also read with interest about the new Saturna long-term devastation that an oil spill can wreak on a cafe in the Double Decker bus.That is a must see. Thank you for community hasn’t read the recent articles about Riki Ott in Island Tides: ‘Riki Ott tells it like it is: there is no oil ‘clean up’’, 3,053 print copies on Ferry Routes and in: publishing such a user-friendly, informative paper. August 23, and ‘Oil Spill Disaster Primer’, September 6.) Victoria • Saanich • Sidney • Cobble Hill Stephanie Brown, Sidney Mill Bay • Crofton • Duncan • Chemainus Giving Thanks One picture may or may not be worth a thousand words, but it can certainly tell a story. Living Oceans would like you to tell Ladysmith • Nanaimo • Bowser • Courtenay Dear Editor: yours. Living Oceans has launched an interactive Keep It Clean Port Alberni • Campbell River My wife and I would like to take this opportunity to send out a map on our website as a ‘visual petition’ to remind the federal and 3,000 online readers each edition Great Big Thank-you to the Pender Island Adventure Society provincial governments that the majority of British Columbians for a wonderful Thanksgiving. Thanks for inviting us to share Owner & Publisher: Christa Grace-Warrick do not want tankers on our coasts or pipelines in our land. your gorgeous piece of paradise for the weekend. The sunset Editor & Production Manager: Sara Miles Wherever you live—whether or not it is on the coast or along from your favourite spot was absolutely magnificent. The Contributors: Patrick Brown, Priscilla Ewbank, Elizabeth May the routes of the proposed pipelines—we invite you to send us traditional Turkey dinner, with all the trimmings, cooked on an John Aitken, Susan Banjavich, Bruce Burnett your own visual message. Your image can be from an individual, open fire, lightly flavoured with maple smoke was magic. We Bakshish Gill, John Hague, Susan Hamilton, Derek Holzapfel a group or a community. It can take any form you want—a are especially thankful for the friendships we shared and the Toby Snelgrove, Nancy Turner message in the sand, a protest, a poster or piece of art you have time we had together, even the midnight swim! Thanks again. created—or simply a favourite place you do not want to see Jim and Doreen Timmins, Courtenay Island Tides Publishing Ltd destroyed. Have as much fun as you can celebrating BC’s waters Box 55, Pender Island, BC V0N 2M0 Tankers In My Front Yard and land. (You can see some of the images already submitted at Tel: 250.629.3660• Fax: 250.629.3838 Dear Editor: Email: [email protected]• [email protected] www.flickr.com/photos/livingoceansfriends/sets/721576301811 I can confirm the increase in tanker traffic (‘Dilbit tankers 43866.) Deadline: Wednesday Between Publications already crossing the strait weekly,’ Island Tides, September 20). Please share this invitation with friends and family. And don’t Off-Island Canadian Print Subscription: $50.00 We live on the Strait of Georgia side of Mayne Island and have Voluntary Mail & Box Pick-up Subscription: $28.00 limit yourself to people living in BC. We’re not the only Canadians US Subs: $80.00 • Online PDF: free witnessed considerable increase in tanker traffic over the past opposed to the Harper Government’s tar sands oil plans and ours www.islandtides.com year. I have even reported to Fisheries & Oceans Canada what are not the only images which should be on this map. Images can I suspect is unethical bilge dumping in the form of large scum be uploaded at: www.livingoceans.org/maps/keep-it-clean. patches arriving on our beach. Whether or not you are able to send a photo, please take a Your TotalTotal I also note in the article the phrase ‘with two pilots and escort minute to send a message to Premier Christy Clark, reminding tugs’. From a very reliable source, I am told that in fact, at a point her that it is not the job of the BC government to demand money WaterWater SolutionSolution in the escort of these tankers around UBC, one of the tugs leaves from Alberta to clean up oilspills. It is the government’s job to (not sure about pilots) and the tanker is singly escorted until it prevent oilspills ever happening. Between the proposed pipeline Gulf Islands Water Treatment reaches the Strait of Juan de Fuca. In any case, a scary scenario and tanker routes, not many backyards in BC are safe. for our pristine beaches, water and marine wildlife. Karen Wristen, Living Oceans Society 0 ~ Rainwater Harvesting Evan Mitchell, Mayne Island ~ Water treatment for wells, surface supplies & seawater ~ Filtration & Disinfection ~ Slow sand filtration Ask E ileen… ~ Small systems Health Practical advice on matters particular to life on an Island Authority approvals Dear Eileen: It is much more restful not to scurry around looking for keys Bacteria,Bacteria, Arsenic,Arsenic, Turbidity,Turbidity, Tannins-TOC,Tannins-TOC, HHardness,ardness, muchmuch more!more! A year or so ago I started locking the doors to my house, at night every time you pop out. And why are you locking? Because you and when I was away. Should I feel guilty about doing this? I know believe that someone will intrude and do your stuff harm while www.watertiger.netwwww..watertigerer..net many Islanders who claim that they never lock their doors. I need you are away—a preoccupation with such things is an intrusion VictoriaVictoria BuBurnabyrnaby CCourtenayourtenay your advice on this critical matter. in the contemplative life. ((250)250) 412-1110412-1110 ((604)604) 630-1114630-1114 ((250)250) 3339-691439-6914 Locked Up on Lasqueti What if you have to leave your pet in the building? You Dear Locked Up: certainly wouldn’t want to lock the door in case of a fire—someone In the case of those who don’t lock their houses, it’s more a case of should be able to rescue it as quickly as possible. How can you not wanting themselves and their circle of friends to be locked out. ensure that the people who you would like to come by will have a s ervice cel This example of Island pridefulness may also simply be the result key? You may have a friend, lover or roommate arriving from off- Installs the world’s best heat pumps! of having permanently lost their keys… Island when you are out or away—it is simplicity itself to leave the Not to have to lock things up or even close doors is a source of house open and welcoming. great satisfaction. In fact, if I close my doors in summer it’s to Not-locking is also a key component to getting things done on Ductless prevent the inadvertent entry of birds, dragonflies or deer when the Islands. Given the vagaries of Islands’ scheduling, not-locking Inverter Drive I’m not there to rescue them. is the solution to waiting, trapped at home. Nothing is more Technology To walk away from tools, furniture, artifacts and buildings to unsatisfying than staying in all day and nobody comes.

pursue a social engagement or an out-and-about chore is not only Conversely, friends borrowing or dropping things off, and 100% money satisfying and time-saving, it’s really about viewing one’s life as a tradesmen with repairs and installations to do can simply get on back project, not a collection of things—counting the project as valuable with their tasks and schedules, should you have inadvertently guarantee rather than the objects. Some dedicated souls leave the Island for wandered off to grasp a serendipitous opportunity to change the extended periods without locking. course of your day. For all of us who like to live our lives as a However that’s all highly philosophical and not-locking is also delicious improvisation, not-locking is vital. convenient. First, a great deal less time needs to be spent looking So, dear Locked Up, I shouldn’t feel guilty, rather a little sad at How Much Could You Save? for mislaid keys—and being able to leave your keys permanently a shift in Island values. Perhaps you could try locking sometimes in the ignition gives a double whammy of time-saving (but do take and sometimes not—or lock the front door and leave the back Mitsubishi Electric Cooling and Heating Systems care to actually switch-off, especially if you are hard-of-hearing). open. This random approach would be typically Islands. save an average of 70% over baseboard heat. Yours, Eileen Tides Plus act now to claim $1100 in Gov’t Grants!

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ISLAND TIDES, October 18, 2012, Page 5 New local food facilities on Salt Spring Island ~ Sara Miles Fresh ‘Gazzoon’ tunes for fun family time If you are looking for a family- oriented, inspiring, entertaining musical collection, look no further than Juno nominee Rick Scott’s new musical audio novel, The Great Gazzoon: A Tall Tale With Tunes and Turbulence. With over four hours of narration, poetry, music and song, The Great Gazzoon features 60 colourful chapters and 22 characters who unfold the adventure of how one boy’s love of music overcomes his fear and transforms his community. Not only is the four-disc set intended for multiple generations, it is a cross-generation Vancouver Island collaboration. Sound engineer Anthony Maki turned Rick Scott and Valley Hennell’s loghome on Protection Island into a recording studio for 25 actors, singers and musicians, playing instruments ranging from violin and cello to kalimba, kora and didgeridoo. Players range from 7 to 75, from veterans to newcomers. Scott, inspired by facing his fear of tightrope walking, narrates and plays eight roles. Hennell co-wrote and produced. Chanteuse Joelle Rabu sings punk rock as an angry Wind and reigns as the Queen, with Mike Matthews as compassionate Photo courtesy of Salt Spring Abattoir Society King. Nico Rhodes plays piano and horns. Marty Shepard provides trumpet fanfares and his son Kyle Shepard, the human The inspector gives a smile of approval for the Salt Spring Abattoir’s new operations. beatbox, creates mouth percussion and sound effects. David Essig, Trish Clair and Shelly Brown combine talents he Salt Spring Abattoir opened on Friday, September 28, closely to make sure that everybody does things correctly.’ as the lively Footflap Orchestra. Sydney’s John Payne doubles just in time to prepare locally-raised turkeys for Thomson said the abattoir project succeeded because of the as wily villain Lord Grot and Gazzoon’s cheeky friend Mug. Thanksgiving. Just as Canada experiences a massive number of supportive people involved. Many farmers made Three of Scott’s nine grandchildren play supporting roles. recallT of meat from an XL Foods slaughterhouse in southern generous donations. Funds also came from non-farmers who The 40-page illustrated songbook, designed by Hornby Alberta, Salt Spring Island meat producers now have a new, ‘simply see the initiative as a good thing for the Island,’ she said. Island graphic artist John McLachlan, combines 50 original local facility at which to process their livestock—a good thing for The abattoir is operated as a non-profit society, with pricing paintings by Ottawa artist Linda Sandborn in a custom consumers looking for alternatives to industrial food. It took designed to cover expenses. The Fall Fair BBQ and an auction cardboard package. Sanborn’s paintings, works of art in their two years to get all the paperwork, funding and facilities in place. helped raise funds for initial operating costs, but construction own right, really bring the characters, such as the Shnooks and The abattoir is currently accepting poultry, and will soon be able is not quite finished. Donations made before the end of the year Princess Pindoolah Keeper of the Alphabet, to life with vibrant to process red meat, Agricultural Alliance Chair Anne Macey qualify for a tax receipt. Users are also encouraged to join the colour. told Island Tides. society. With membership comes the right to vote for the Recommended for age eight to ageless, for bedtime stories, Now, farmers such as Margaret Thomson will no longer have directors, and to stand for nomination as director. For more family time and peace in the car on road trips, it is available from to spend the time and money to take their animals to Vancouver information, see www.saltspringabattoir.ca. www.gazzoon.com and at Kool & Child and Pumpkin Pie Kids in Island. ‘I always had to go back the next day,’ she said. ‘It cost The only other licensed meat processors on the Gulf Islands Nanaimo, Kaboodles and Tall Tales in Victoria, Chemainus two ferry rides and an awful lot of time.’ are Somerset Farm on Gabriola, and Campbells Farm on Theatre Gallery, Laughing Oyster in Courtenay, in Comox at Up until eight years ago, farmers were permitted to process Saturna. Planet Kids, at Coho Books in Campbell River and at Talisman their own animals. Then changed legislation required that they Salt Spring’s Developing Food Network Books & Gallery on Pender Island…might we also suggest the go to a government-approved facility, not available on Salt Christmas list? Upcoming concerts are on the website, too. The abattoir is one piece of the agriculture infrastructure needed Spring Island. Farmers had to take their animals off-island to Scott is Goodwill Ambassador for the Down Syndrome to build Salt Spring’s dependable local food supply, as identified be processed. Local meat production declined by 50% in just Research Foundation. His seven children’s music CDs have by its Area Farm Plan. The Plan also highlighted the need for a four years. been honoured with three Juno nominations and Parents Farm Produce Centre to enable produce storage, distribution The new abattoir employs about ten people, part-time, and Choice, NAPPA Gold, iParenting Media and Canadian Folk and processing. This may now also be on the way. has even had employment inquiries from off-Island. Victoria Music Awards. This album also won a Parents Choice Award. In September, the Local Trust Committee approved zoning restaurants have already chosen to purchase turkeys processed to support development of such a facility at a Beddis Road site The Great Gazzoon: A Tall Tales With Tunes & Turbulence, on Salt Spring, demonstrating the demand for the Island’s 0 belonging to Beddis Developments Ltd. The plan is for Slegg 2012, Grand Poobah Music, $35. home-grown products. Lumber to relocate to this site. In addition to making meat production viable for Island In order to rezone, Beddis Developments needed a portion farmers, an on-Island abbattoir reduces carbon footprint, of the five-hectare site to be excluded from the Agricultural Land increases organic food production—and it improves food safety. Reserve. Following discussions with local agricultural At the big plants, as we have seen in the case of XL Foods, when Get Well producers, the Agricultural Land Commission agreed, in something goes wrong, it really goes wrong. ‘We do better with exchange for the donation to Salt Spring Island Farmland Trust localized production and processing,’ said Chair Macey. ‘All the Society of a 0.6-hectare parcel and funding for a storage Soon, scares come from big plants.’ building. The land-use change will create a farm-grown food The Salt Spring Abattoir can process up to 150 chickens per distribution centre close to Ganges Village. Patrick! day. The inspector can pay close attention: ‘He sees everything,’ ‘This is an excellent model of rezoning,’ said Trustee George said Thomson. ‘With one inspector for 2,000 birds, I would Grams. Trustee Peter Grove thanked Beddis Developments Ltd imagine there are some things he might not see.’ Abattoir staff for ‘being so responsive to working with neighbours in the also learn from the inspector. ‘We have proper safety Rainwater Harvesting Systems agricultural community.’ 0 procedures, and everything is written down, but he’s watching As your Member of Parliament, I am proud to be your voice in Ottawa, and I am happy to “assist you with federal issues affecting your life. Please contact me if I can be of service. Elizabeth May, O.C., M.P., Saanich-Gulf Islands ” This home is only $110,602 to lock up Constituency office open with a 2ft foundation on your property! for public service 10am–4pm, Tuesday–Friday At Trafalgar Homes, we believe the time has come NEW! for AFFORDABLE home options. www.elizabethmaymp.ca If the home of your dreams is one that fits comfortably within your budget, the licensed builder to choose is WORLD LEADING BRANDS Elizabeth May, Member of Parliament, Saanich–Gulf Islands 9711 Fourth St. Sidney BC V8L 2Y8 Tel: 250-657-2000 | [email protected] TRAFALGAR HOMES Visit www.trafalgarhomes.ca/it to receive your promotional offer barrplastics.com • 1-800-665-4499 Constituency office open to serve you: Wholesale Distributors to Contractors & DIY’s for over 40 years conscientious, caring, non-partisan service 1-866-971-0239 www.islandtides.com Page 6, ISLAND TIDES, October 18, 2012 What’sOn? Round the Islands Single venue: $33.60/$39.20 w image • Multiple venues: $44.80/$50.40 w image Payment with order by Visa or MasterCard • 250.629.3660 Saturday, October 20 Salt Spring Vineyards Annual Grape Stomp– special wine tastings, fresh shucked oysters, local restaurant nibbles, music all day, grape stomping & competitions, an event not to be missed • 1700 Block Fulford-Ganges Road • 12-5pm • Everyone welcome • Info: www.saltspringvineyards.com, 250.653.9463 • SALT SPRING Saturday, October 20 Cowichan Fleece & Fibre Fair—vendors, fleece, rovings, yarns, books, dyes, spinning wheels, felting supplies & more; locally handcrafted, one of a kind items; knitters’ circle, spinners’ circle, kids’ activities, ongoing demonstrations • New location: Eagles Hall, 2965 Boys Road • 10am-4pm • Info: Annie 250.246.4600, [email protected] • DUNCAN Friday, October 26 Mayne Island Speakers Series presents Mike & Martha Pennock: ‘Measuring Happiness in Photo: Nancy Turner Bhutan & Canada’—in 2006 they led development of a questionnaire to measure the Gathering red laver–it’s local, nutritious, and the subject of a talk at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre. Details below. Bhutanese concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH), later developing a westernized form of the Floating Lectures Series other Earth Week event held in Victoria. Approximately 4,000 questionnaire • Agricultural Hall, 430 Fernhill Road The Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre in Sidney, BC, recently people attended the inaugural Creatively United for the Planet • 7:30pm • By donation, discussion & refreshments to follow • Info: announced its ‘Floating Ideas’ Lecture Series. It launches on Festival. This first-time fundraiser raised almost $6,000 on Mary Crumblehume 250.539.3027, Brenda Webster 250.539.3574 • behalf of participating non-government organizations. The MAYNE October 18, at 7pm, with a talk about the giant Pacific octopus, the world’s ‘smartest invertebrate.’ Aquarist Daniel Wuitchik festival also showcased proper environmental practices with Friday & Saturday, October 26 & 27 will speak about how, using the principles of psychology, his its commitment to zero waste, sustainable power generated Making Waves: Sinking the Harper Agenda— onsite and sustainable bus transport for attendees. the Council of Canadians presents a public team is enriching the octupus’ time in the aquarium. On forum (Oct 26) and conference (Oct 27) with November 5, a talk by ethnobotanist Dr Nancy Turner will ‘The Foreigner’ on Pender Island Maude Barlow, Linda McQuaig, Bill McKibben & feature a cultural keystone species: red laver, an edible seaweed Pender Island Solstice Theatre is hard at work on a fall Grand Chief Stewart Phillip • Vancouver Island rich in nutrients and used widely by coastal First Nations. presentation led by first-time directors Julia and Gregory Conference Centre • Info: 1.800.387.7177, ext 333, www.canadians.org/conference • Everyone Gala to Raise Tsawout Longhouse Nicholls. The Foreigner, by American playwright Larry Shue, welcome • NANAIMO The is planning an will run on November 16, 17, 18 at the Community Hall. Saturday, October 27 elegant seafood gala dinner fundraiser to Based around the lives of seven very complex Scary-okie Costume Party—wear your scariest Halloween costume help rebuild the longhouse that was people, the hilarious comedy takes its audience and head to Port Browning for karaoke with DJ Hosebag, prizes & destroyed in a tragic fire three up to a wildly funny climax in which things dancing • Saturday is also Rib Night at Browning, $20 for 2 full racks of years ago. go uproariously awry for the ‘bad guys’ BBQ baby back ribs • Port Browning Marina Pub, Oak Road • Info: and the ‘good guys’ emerge triumphant. 250.629.3493, www.portbrowning.com • PENDER Actor Adam Beach, known for his role on CBC’s Looking For Next Sundays, October 28 & November 4 Arctic Air and Smoke Voces Intimae Choir—two concerts of Russian Orthodox Church Great Novel Music by Victoria’s only semi-professional choir, directed by Tony Signals, will be a feature Aspiring authors, dedicated Booker • Victoria, Oct 28, 3pm: St Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, speaker. Award-winning dramatists, working wordsmiths– 1112 Caledonia • Sidney, Nov 4, 3pm: St Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, Cree singer-songwriter now is the time to send your novel or 10030 Third Street • Tickets $20 & $15 at the door, in advance at Ivy’s, Art Napoleon will novella manuscript to Salt Spring Larsen’s, Long & McQuade and Tanners • Info: [email protected], perform songs from his 250.727.2529 • VICTORIA & -based Mother Tongue latest CD, and the Publishing. November 1 is the Friday to Sunday, November 2 to 4 Snuneymuxw First Nation 23rd Annual Nanaimo Professional deadline for the ‘Search for the Great Craft Fair—something for everyone, Dancers and the Cowichan BC Novel Contest’. Open to all writers door prizes, grand prize Nintendo Wii, Tzinquaw Dancers will feature Sunflower by Susan Banjavich living in BC, the contest offers the chance wheelchair accessible, refreshments from vibrant cultural performances. to win a publishing contract with Mother Sandy’s Ukrainian kitchen • Beban Park ‘This is an important event for Tongue, a $1,000 advance, media coverage, Social Centre, 2300 Bowen Rd • Fri: 12- the Tsawout community. We really feel 8pm; Sat: 10am-5pm; Sun: 10am-4pm • readings and signings, and of course, publication Admission $4 (unlimited re-entry) • Info: the loss of the longhouse because it is the of the winning novel. Previous contest winner Gurjinder 250.390.3995, [email protected] • NANAIMO symbolic base of our culture,’ said event organizer Basran and SFUEnglish Professor and author David Chariandy Saturday, November 3 Farrah Sylvester. She said the Nation hopes that many people, are the shortlist judges. Award-winning author Caroline r including business operators, politicians, church groups and M e Moving Around Pender Community ‘Show & Tell’ Adderson will make the final selection. Complete details are at o d v n i e ng P and AGM—come see images and maps illustrating community friends will support their cause at this event. Around www.mothertonguepublishing.com. what MAP has been thinking about and where The QELENSEN gala is on Saturday, October 27, 5-10pm Climate Action ‘To Go’ activities could lead (car stops, transportation plan, at the Tsawout First Nation Gathering of Strength facility on survey results, cycling, routes, trails, Q&A), followed by Looking for ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency? 7728 Tetayut Road in Saanichton. The event will include a four sharing AGM • Show & Tell 10-11am, AGM 11:15am-noon, Borrow a ‘Climate Action To-Go Kit’ from a local library! our byways for Regular Meeting 12-1pm • Community Hall Upstairs • course meal with musical and cultural entertainment. better community Recently made availabe through a CRD-BC Hydro partnership, Info: www.movingaroundpender.ca • PENDER Everyone is welcome. To reserve a table, call 778.426.3401 or the kits contain resources, tools and activities to help individuals email [email protected]. Saturday, November 3 and families save money and reduce their carbon footprint. The Alpha Diallo in Concert with Prince Tides Photographer in Fine Art Show kit will help you measure household appliance electricity use, Diabate—six-piece band with master kora We are proud to report that, for the fourth consecutive year, player from Guinea West Africa via France; discover air leaks in walls and around windows, test out an come and dance! Donations gratefully received Island Tides contributing photographer Toby Snelgrove had ultra-efficient LED light bulb, assess showerhead hot water for Humanitarian Coalition in support of crisis in his work accepted into the juried Sidney Fine Art Show, held efficiency, and learn about local solutions to climate change. the Sahel • Community Hall Upstairs • 7:30pm at the Mary Winspear Centre in mid-October. (See some of his Kits are available starting this month in all ten branches of • Tickets: $20 advance @ Talisman, Southridge, photos on pages one and 12, this edition.) the Greater Victoria Public Library, the Sooke or Sidney/North Medicine Beach Liquor Store, $22 at the door • ‘It is quite an honour to get accepted into this multimedia Info: www.alphayayadiallo.com • PENDER Saanich branches of the Vancouver Island Regional Library, art show,’ stated Snelgrove. ‘Each year there are new and the Salt Spring Island Public Library. Tuesday, November 6 adjudicators and most are not photographers. There is always Cappella Artemisia—all-women’s vocal Gabriola Expands Recycling Program great anticipation as to whether your art will be viewed as ensemble based in Bologna, Italy, whose Recycling on Gabriola just got easier. The Gabriola Island worthy, let alone win an award.’ inspiration comes from the music Recycling Organization (GIRO) recently expanded its recycling performed by cloistered nuns in the 16th & This year, artists Don Farrell SFCA and David Goatley SFCA, program to include many materials not currently accepted in 17th centuries • Presented by Gulf Islands along with Sandra Fraser, Associate Curator selected 375 works the blue box curbside pick-up program: paints, pesticides and Concerts (Pender) • Pender School • 7pm from 1,020 submissions. • Single concert $25 Adult, $12 Student, aerosols, light bulbs, batteries, TVs, computers and In 2010, one of Snelgrove’s submissions, Lone Tree, won the $5 Child @ Talisman and Southridge • Info: 250.629.2060 • PENDER peripherals, and smoke alarms. Show Designer’s Award. More of Snelgrove’s work is at A new web site at www.girodepot.com provides easy-to- Now till Friday, November 9 www.tobysnelgrovephotography.com. WinterCraft: Call For Exhibitor Applications—register by Nov 9 to follow guidelines on how to prepare these and other items for exhibit at WinterCraft Annual Creatively United Leader Wins Award the GIRO Recycling Depot, as well as for their Reuse Centre, Christmas Art & Craft Sale, Nov Congratulations to Frances Litman, acclaimed photographer which keeps usable items out of the landfill by offering them 30-Dec16; valid Arts Council and advocate for the arts and the environment, for recently Membership required ($25) • Applications: www.ssartscouncil.com, or to the public at affordable prices. GIRO also offers island at Mahon Hall, 114 Rainbow Road, in mailbox at school side of building receiving a CRD EcoStar Award. Litman combined her two businesses the convenience of customized pick-up of recyclable • Registration fee: $28 • Info: [email protected] • SALT SPRING passions to orchestrate a unique fundraising event in support and reusable materials from their business site. of environmental charities this year. In addition to these upgrades, the GIRO depot itself has Get YOUR event in the ‘Whats On’! Driven by a desire to see environmental charities become been undergoing a facelift, with new signs and a reorganized 21,000 copies locally & Strait of Georgia-wide as well-funded as disease charities, Litman took the initiative Reuse Centre. It’s all part of the GIRO Board’s ongoing effort Call Sara at 250.629.3660 or email [email protected] to enlist volunteers, businesses, individuals and groups to to be as user-friendly as possible. 0 come on board in support of an event that would be unlike any www.islandtides.com ISLAND TIDES, October 18, 2012, Page 7 Priscilla Ewbank Saturnariting this on Thanksgiving Notes Day, October 8, I can’t year is different. In the last three or so years there has been a participated in activities and events that make Saturna a vital believe it hasn’t rained yet on Saturna. This extended great increase in alternative power use. New solar and wind community. She was funny, droll, hard-working and knew what drought is disquieting. I have never before thought power technologies have come to Lancaster. All of the schools she wanted. She was hard to get to stand still for a photograph aboutW our well running dry. We think about water consumption have now been retrofitted or built with solar panels. or for the generous praise and appreciation that often came her even when it rains for four days straight, but have never had to The school districts lease the panels from solar power way and was her due. think about sacrificing garden watering for household usage. companies in power purchase agreements to meet federal ‘Do it! Don’t talk about it!’ is my experience of Sandy. She Here I am though, the woman who comes alive in sunlight and requirements and school district fiscal policies. Someone gets a and I were community friends; there are enough times that we warmth, wishing for rain! … softly falling drops that will slowly 30% tax break and the schools save on average $1,000 per rode the ferry together, crossed paths at meetings, dinners and saturate the soil, reviving the groundwater, fattening up the month. Ingeniously, the solar panels are installed on high stands events that I saw her more than I saw some members of my roots of plants. in parking lots, providing shade to the cars parked below. This family–visiting was redundant. She was all over the Great Basin Trip new outfitting includes elementary, middle and high schools community…she sat next to Lorraine Campbell at her 91st I am actually on the road south, following the Great Basin and the big community college. birthday dinner celebration at Campbell’s Farm…the upcoming Desert after seeing my two sisters in the Antelope Valley The power supplier, Southern California Edison, is a leader Community Dinner was her favourite event…two days before northeast of Los Angeles, California. The area I am visiting, in North America for solar power. It uses a mix of systems to leaving I asked, ‘Can I count on you for food prep day for the Lancaster, boasts 340 days of sunshine a year. It has the highest provide power to 14 million customers. It is now building a Candlelight Dinner?’ ‘Of, course!’ came the willing reply…her solar gain in North America. It runs on artesian water and has network of solar power generation on 65 million square feet of invoice for doing the books for our local internet service provider one of the fastest-growing populations in the southwest. It is dry rooftops in southern California. came across the computer screen just as I left. again this year. Dry for the short haul, and dry for the long haul– The US has just instituted a tariff on Chinese manuafactured At the last Saturna Community Club meeting she was no rain, and no snow in the mountains which help so much with solar-panel technologies and parts, so costs are up for a short thanked for being the experienced hand and for getting the groundwater. period while US and European manufactures are filling the gap. minutiae of the Lamb BBQ finances in great good order. She The Great Basin Desert stretches from Kelowna to Mexico SANDY CROWLEY loved the Saturna Community Hall and worked hard with the through eastern Washington, Oregon and California, and In the ferry lineup, I heard from a mutual friend about our good Women’s Club and the Community Club Maintenance includes Arizona, Utah and New Mexico. It is a widely varied friend Sandy Crowley’s death. Sandy did so much for the Committee to have it be welcoming, structurally sound and kept desert landscape, dry and sunny with dust, rocks, tumbleweeds, community; following the lines of her doings is to know the up in fine order. She was the lead organizer for the 60th gorgeous narrow rivers, streams and marshes. adjustments that must be made to accommodate our loss. Anniversary Tea Dance celebration of the Community Hall. In the years I have traveled this area, I had seen little use of Her experience, interest and capabilites were part of creating We remember her for her participation and offer solar for residential, industrial or government buildings. This community; I will miss working and being with her. Sandy condolences to her family in their loss.0

Victoria federal by-election: making history already New Film And Book: John Hague & Sara Miles t the September nomination meeting for the federal ‘I entered the race with the sole intention of seeing a Green ‘Art For An Oil Free Coast’ Green Party’s by-election candidates in Victoria, Party Party candidate from Victoria elected to the House of Commons aincoast Conservation Foundation‐ film Reflections: Leader Elizabeth May made an in this by-election. To that end I remain Art for an Oil Free Coast premiered at the Vancouver impassionedA plea for voters to elect fully committed. I have reached the International ‐Film Festival on October 3. Canada’s second Green member of conclusion that Donald Galloway is RRaincoast executive director Chris Genovali commented, parliament. best-positioned to win this important ‘As these artists worked in the Great Bear Rainforest, among May had publicly endorsed Donald contest. He has earned my full support pristine estuaries and alongside bears, they created an amazing Galloway’s nomination. He is a UVic law in reaching that objective from this collection of art to share with the world. Hopefully, our film can professor who is an internationally- point forward.’ similarly be a vehicle to show people just how amazing this recognized expert in refugee law. However, ‘Trevor Moat is a wonderfully region really is and how much is at stake.’ in a coin-toss after a very rare tied vote, generous and selfless man,’ said Fifty artists–some of the country’s most celebrated and Trevor Moat initially won the candidacy. Galloway. ‘Thanks to his offer of many who are First Nations–took part in Raincoast’s two week Moat confessed that he had not support we found a positive way to expedition to BC’s central and north coast this summer.‐ They prepared an acceptance speech, because he emerge out of a most unusual situation. depicted the rich biodiversity and ecological elements of the expected Galloway to win. He did however I know that we are on the same team forest, intertidal and ocean zones, and the people, flora and deliver a convincing speech that working for the same goal of electing fauna that have lived there for thousands of years. The artists’ emphasized the need for a large volunteer another Green Member of Parliament. goal is to bring attention to the dramatic beauty and ecological effort. At first this seemed like an upset win, I look forward to working with diversity that will be at risk if tankers are permitted to ship although both candidates represented good Elizabeth on protecting the values of our tarsands oil through the region’s narrow and dangerous choices for the Greens. great country.’ channels. However, during his nomination speech, In the Victoria riding, the Greens The resulting works, combined with prose and poetry, will Moat had pledged his support to Galloway and the NDP could be in a two-way be published in November as an art book titled Canada’s should he win the nomination. And after DONALD GALLOWAY contest for the Commons seat. ‘Another Raincoast at Risk: Art for an Oil Free Coast. The original careful consideration of that tie-breaking NDP MP will not make much artworks will become part of a traveling‐ art show to raise public coin-toss, he concluded it would be in the best interest of the difference,’ said MP Elizabeth May, ‘but another Green MP will awareness of what is at risk on this priceless coast and why it Green campaign if Galloway carried the flag instead. make a big difference to the House of Commons.’ needs to be kept oil free. 0 ‘I am very grateful for the confidence shown in me by the NDP Candidacy ‐ membership of the in Victoria,’ stated The NDP were scheduled to select their candidate on October Moat in a press release. ‘Although I was declared the winning 14, with former BC provincial cabinet minister, Elizabeth Cull candidate, I did not receive the clear majority of the vote at the and well known environmental lawyer, Murray Rankin, her nomination meeting as I had sought. closest rival, contesting the nomination. 0

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Photo: John Aitken Keith Jakobsen www.jakobsenassociates.com 604.261.5619 [email protected] The Mayne Island Apple Press at the Agricultural Grounds on October 7. www.islandtides.com Page 8, ISLAND TIDES, October 18, 2012 profile Interview by Sara Miles ~Derek Photos by Derek Holzapfel Holzapfel aka Nature Diver ~ Underwater Photographer With the warm weather coming to a close, it’s time for Derek to get back into the water. Winter dives in the Southern Gulf Islands offer better visibility, as plankton dies off during the shorter days and less silt washes out from the Fraser River. SM: When and how did you start diving? DH: I received my NAUI certification in 1989 in Toronto and have been active in this sport ever since. Back in the early 1980s I regularly watched people diving while camping up in the Tobermory area of Ontario. This is where my interest started. A few years later, I took the certification and never looked back. SM: What kind of camera and equipment do you use for your underwater shots? DH: My camera gear currently consists of a new Olympus XZ-1 camera in an Olympus PT-050 housing with an Olympus UFL-01 underwater strobe. Attached to the camera tray I have a home-made rig that holds two LED focus lights. This setup is held in my right hand, and in my left hand I have a 15-watt light that I also use to light my subjects. I also carry a few ‘magnifier lenses’ that can be screwed on to the housing for super close macro photos.

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friends diving Norris Rocks off Hornby Island. Here we would be joined underwater by many California sea lions and Steller sea lions. The experience of watching the antics, postures and curious behaviors of these huge creatures in their underwater environment tops all my dives. SM: Your worst dive? DH: My most ‘interesting’ experience was being attacked by a giant Pacific octopus five years ago. It was a situation that could have gone bad, but happy to say no injuries were sustained by me or my attacker. SM:What is the most interesting underwater creature you have encountered? VERMILION STAR DH: It’s tough to pick just one… We have such SM: Where and how often do you dive? amazing, varied life in these waters. While it is always a DH: Before moving to Pender Island 13 years ago, I dove all thrill to encounter a wolf eel or octopus, my most over the BC and Washington coast. Now that I am here, just memorable unique creature is still a small ‘grunt sculpin’ about all my diving takes place off South and North Pender. You fish. I have only ever seen one, off South Pender. could say I have almost circumnavigated the two islands SM: What would be your top recommendation for underwater. The last few years I have slowed down a bit and someone who wants to dive the Gulf Islands? dive about 20 times a year. My sole purpose now is to DH: We are so fortunate to have many ocean access trails photograph species of which I do not yet have a photo record that provide access to quality shore dives. Of course these dives and to capture artistic images. So far, my collection has can also be done off a boat. Currently my three favourites on approximately 30,000 photographs and from that there are Pender would be: 1) off Gowlland Beach at the end of Gowlland around 5,000 underwater photographs. Point Road, toward the navigation marker; 2) there is a great SM: What was your best dive experience? ‘wall dive’ off the end of Higgs Road on South Pender; and 3) SM: Top 3 tips for taking great underwater photos? DH: For many years I have spent a few winter days with Tilly Point caves off the end of Craddock Road on South Pender. DH: Patience, patience, patience… it is amazing how much more you see when you spend time looking in one area. KELP HOLDFAST Then lighting–in our waters there is so much particulate that special care needs to be taken with lighting. Lights and strobes must be angled to light the subject without having the lights hitting the floating particulate front on. Otherwise photos will be full of ‘snowflakes/backscatter’ and will be ruined. And, get close. Again, because our waters are not crystal clear and light does not travel far, the photographer needs to be close to the subject. The best photos will be within a meter of the subject, and macro-photography provides the best results overall. SM:What do you do with all your photos? DH: My website has a photo database with over 400 marine species. This includes mainly underwater species, but also marine birds and mammals. Most of these photographs were taken around the Pender Islands area. I also have links to many dive photo galleries for visitors to view our underwater world. Many photos are posted on micro stock websites where they are offered for sale as stock photography. My favorite artistic photographs are also available on photography products through FineArtAmerica and Zazzle (derek- holzapfel.artistwebsites.com, www.zazzle.ca/naturediver). On these sites customers can order fine art prints and various photographs on products like T-shirts, mugs, mouse pads etc. Some photos are posted to Google Earth, and some species photos I donated to UBC’s ‘Efauna’ project, Electronic Atlas of the Wildlife of . I have been able to provide this project with many photos of marine species that were missing in their collection. Also, periodically researchers around the world have requested photographs for their sites. 0 www.islandtides.com ISLAND TIDES, October 18, 2012, Page 9 Major trade agreements in the works~ Patrick Brown y mid-October, Canada’s federal government expects to Support for the Negotiation of a New and Comprehensive be close to final agreement on the text of the Economic Agreement with the European Union’ issued by IS YOUR Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement Canada’s Council of the Federation, in which 12 of the 13 (BCETA) with the European Union. The Agreement will still provinces and territories confirm their commitment to the require formal ratification by Canada and the countries of the negotiation and implementation of an accord. WELLSAFE TO WATER DRINK? European Union. However, CETA clearly limits the options for provincial and This and the Trans Pacific Partnership (more on this below) local governments in using contracting and procurement policy Contamination can occur are the latest moves in the government’s push to conclude trade for economic and social development. This contradicts the without changes in colour or agreements with many countries over the past few years. constitution, both in wording and intent. taste. Be safe, test annually. Big trade deals started with the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Some 40 municipalities and cities have so far indicated their signed with the US 25 years ago, and updated in December 1993 opposition to the CETA restrictions. by the inclusion of Mexico in the North American Free Trade NAFTA does not include such provisions; the last similar 250-656-1334 Agreement (NAFTA). attempt to bind provincial and local governments was the mid- What Does CETA Include? 1990s Multilateral Agreement on Investment (MAI), which was The agenda of CETA was essentially set by a ‘scoping’ study, opposed at the time by BC’s NDP government. With the new PQ started in 2009. It concluded: ‘A mutually-held understanding government in Quebec, opposition might now arise from that of the Group, as confirmed by the study’s findings, was that the province as well. fax: 250-656-0443 Website: www.mblabs.com maximum degree of benefit to both sides would result from a Environment: ‘No Worries’ Email: [email protected] maximum degree of liberalisation, as well as from the inclusion It is interesting to note that an earlier Canadian government 2062 Unit 4 Henry Ave. West, Sidney, B.C. V8L 5Y1 in an agreement of areas other than trade, where there was joint study of the ‘environmental impacts’ of CETA virtually ignored interest in doing so.’ aspects which fell under provincial jurisdiction. However, the The text of CETA has not been made available, although federal government was quick to assure Canadians that federal some wording has been leaked. In many ways, it is a typical legislation would be sufficient to protect Canada from any ‘trade’ agreement. Less typical aspects may include: adverse effects of EU corporations taking advantage of CETA. Drug Patent Laws For example, with respect to mining impacts: ‘In addition to the Possible harmonization of drug patent laws, which would Canadian Environmental Protection Act, the federal Fisheries extend proprietary drug patents and delay the introduction of Act is one of the key pieces of legislation for managing aquatic similar drugs by generic manufacturers. Given the significant resources in Canada and it ensures the conservation and price differences, this has been estimated to cost Canadians protection of fish habitat in Canadian fisheries waters.’ $3 billion annually. After a long list of mostly provincial actions, the Patent & Copyright Laws environmental study assures Canadians ‘government-led Inclusion of provisions from the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade initiatives aim at sustainable development of resources, and Agreement (ACTA), which is intended to facilitate strict potential environmental impacts will be mitigated by laws that enforcement of patent and copyright laws, and includes bind foreign investors to the same environmental regulations provisions which would make Internet Service Providers that govern domestic investors.’ responsible for the online actions of users. ACTA has been The Trans Pacific Partnership signed by Canada and 30 other nations, but has only been Meanwhile, June 2012 saw Canada formally join the ratified by Japan. In July it was rejected by the European negotiations for the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), a Parliament over ‘concern about its impact on consumers’ multinational trade agreement which already includes the US, privacy and civil liberties, on innovation and the free flow of Australia, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, Peru, New Zealand, innovation’. Its potential inclusion in CETA has been labeled a Singapore and Vietnam. ‘back-door’ strategy to include the European Union (EU). On TPP trade agreement is in its early stage. It grew out of an September 19, the Dutch government confirmed that it would earlier trade agreement between several western Pacific nations. not sign CETA if it included the ACTA provisions. With the addition of the United States, it has started to represent Water, Energy & Public Services a trading bloc that includes all nations bordering on the Pacific, The EU appears to have negotiated a blanket provision that except China. excludes water, energy and public services from Canadian However, Canada and China have recently signed an bidders, but Canada seems not to have called for a reciprocal Investment Protection Agreement that has been tabled in the clause. House of Commons. Although no debate is scheduled, it will Provincial & Municipal Governments very likely soon be ratified by cabinet (see related article, The Canadian Constitution allocates governmental ‘Canada’s Sovereignty Threatened: What We Are Giving To responsibilities between the federal government and the China’, page 3). UNITING ISLANDS BIG AND SMALL provinces, with the cities and municipalities being creatures of Canada indicated its intention to join the TPPlast November, the provinces. Thus, in order to negotiate an agreement that and soon after issued a call for public submissions. Little Voluntary Subscriptions help binds provincial and municipal governments to provide equal information is available on the TPP. There has been some treatment to EU corporations in the provision of public services, speculation that, as much of New Zealand’s trade is in keep all this great news coming! the provinces have to be included in the negotiations. agricultural products, Canada might have to give up its ‘supply If you receive Island Tides in your mailbox, pick Recently, they have been included, with the government management’ system (for eggs and dairy products) in order to it up at a yellow box or rack located from Victoria relying on a ‘Statement of the Council of the Federation– participate. 0 to Campbell River, or read online, you can show your support with a voluntary subscription of Saturna: What’s in a name…or when? $25 + $3hst = $28 (or amount of your choice). Bakshish Gill he story of how Saturna Island got its name has two earlier. In the case of Saturna’s history, I came upon new and BUT WAIT! THERE’S MORE! distinct but interrelated parts: when was the easterly enlightening sources. point of our island named, and by whom; and when did Here, we come to the crux of my research: that Saturna We have a fun theT word ‘Saturna’ first appear on our island, and who put it Island was not officially named by any person on June 15, 1791, opportunity for there? Both the naming of East Point (Punta y Bayo de Santa as the commemorative bicentennial plaque at East Point now Saturnina) and naming of the island occurred at some time states. first-time during the 1791 and 1792 Spanish explorations of the Strait of The idea that Saturna Island was named on that date is an voluntary Juan de Fuca. oral history (albeit a rich one) and people took it for granted that subscribers: The 1791 explorations were led by Francisco Eliza, as he the explorers named Saturna Island on that date. In the Atlas double your sub commandeered the packetboat San Carlos. The schooner Santa of British Columbia and the Northwest, edited by Derek Hayes, Saturnina, under Eliza’s orders, was commanded at different I have discovered a map by Dionisio Alcalá Galiano drawn up to $56, and you periods by one or another of his master pilots. The 1792 in 1792, on which he, or his surveyor, wrote ‘Isla De Saturna’— will receive exploration was carried out under the command of Dionisio a year later than the date on the commemorative plaque. your very own Island Tides T-shirt! Alcalá Galiano in the Sutil, and his second-in-command, My understanding is that the Spaniards did not do their Gayetano Valdez in the Mexicana. cartography on the spot, but rather at a convenient or more My personal interest in this story began when I helped suitable time in their surveying and charting. The information BE PART OF THE GOOD NEWS! organize and install the bronze plaque at East Point to that I have gleaned from various books and maps related to the commemorate Saturna Island’s 1992 Bicentennial. However, I 1971 exploration of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, simply states that Sincere thanks to our readers who didn’t feel the information on the plaque was complete, and in pilot Juan Pantoja and his ‘exhausted’ crew passed around the sent voluntary subscriptions. continuing my research I uncovered several contradictions east end of Saturna Island. In the charting of the 1791 Some of you are still on Island-time… which lead me to delve into books written about the exploration expedition, the Spaniards had placed the words ‘Santa the presses are rolling! of the Pacific Northwest during the late 18th century, and more Saturnina’ on the most easterly point of the Island, whereas in specifically, the explorations by the Spaniards during 1789-1795. 1792 Galiano had placed the words ‘Isla de Saturna’ squarely in Please mail subscriptions to: Searching through books, maps and monographs, I became the centre of the island. Box 55, Pender Island, BC V0N 2M0 convinced that history is fluid. It changes every time somebody It is far-fetched that Saturna Island in its entirety could have states new or different interpretations of the previous material, been named in 1791 when in fact, the Spaniards had attributed Or call 250.629.3660 with your VISA/MC or governments release a document that was not available SATURNA NAMING, please turn to page 10 www.islandtides.com Page 10, ISLAND TIDES, October 18, 2012 Environmental assessment in limbo Patrick Brown ow that the dust has started to settle types of projects were only considered if they Caraway: more than a spice from the spring federal omnibus met certain ‘thresholds’. Under the 1995 Bruce Burnett, CH budget legislation, we are starting to provincial legislation, for example, a new coal seeN the effects on environmental assessment in mine would only need assessment if it araway (carum carvi), a member of the children, and will successfully combine with BC. The first news we had was that the federal produced over 100,000 tonnes per year; in carrot family, is a self-seeding annual, white horehound in this role. government had lost all interest in screening 2002 this was bumped up to 250,000 tonnes sometimes growing as a biennial, which In the magical realm, caraway is carried to some 492 BC projects which were previously per year. Clikes a sunny location and, unlike most herbs, ward off evil entities and any negativity. The queued up for processing in Ottawa. This, it Each specific category of ‘reviewable’ well-watered soil. Seeds should be sown in ancient Egyptians buried their dead with a bag appeared, would leave some 19 proposals project had different criteria: modifications of shallow drills as early as possible and, in milder of caraway seeds as a bulwark against evil which remained to be examined, either by a sawmills and pulp mills only attracted climates, in the fall. Thin the seedlings and spirits. A small bag of the seeds placed in a federal process, a provincial one, or a combined assessment if their waste was expected to keep the bed weeded. child’s bed will afford process. And the federal government was quite increase by 10% (1995) or 30% (2002). Mine Caraway does not need protection from illness willing to accept the conclusions of a provincial expansions were measured by how much fertilizer. and from Lilith, the government assessment if they felt it was additional surface area would be disturbed; The spice does not female demon who ’equivalent’. energy projects only counted if they generated like to grow near fennel, attacks children. There’s no doubt that this would save the over 50 megawatts of electricity; transmission but it makes a good Chewing or carrying federal government a lot of work, not to lines had to be over 40km of at least 500-volt companion for peas and the seeds will attract mention the proponents. But how did this pile- line. Vancouver’s Canada Line fell 500 metres will help keep the weeds the love of a desired up occur in the first place? short of the 20-km threshold for ‘Urban down under your pea one and will promote Federal Project Criteria Transit Rail Projects’. rows. fidelity. When baked in Under the 1995 Canadian Environmental It’s easy to see how these criteria could have When the seeds are bread, cakes and Assessment Act, projects had to apply for been politically influenced. brown (mid to late cookies, they are lust federal environmental assessment if they met The Overlap summer), check their inducing. one or more of three conditions: Needless to say, most of the projects whose ripeness with a gentle Every part of the • a federal agency proposed or provided assessment was abandoned by the federal tug. If ready, cut off the caraway plant is edible, funding for the project, government were also excluded from whole plant and turn it but it is the seeds that • a federal agency sold, leased, or disposed assessment by the provincial process. Those upside down in a paper are most popular in the of its interest in land as part of the project, that are left are mostly significant, and fall bag. When dry, the seeds kitchen. Their taste is • a federal agency exercised regulatory under the provincial requirements; for will fall to the bottom of slightly sweet, nutty control over the project. example, Teck’s Fording coal mine expansion, the bag when it is rolled and peppery with a This resulted in a great grab-bag of projects, hydroelectric projects such as Nascall River between your hands. hint of fennel or anise. some large and environmentally significant, near Bella Coola, Europa Hydro near Kitimat, There is evidence of They are used some small and insignificant; and just a few and so on. caraway’s use dating extensively in Eastern (like pipelines) really worth assessing. Some projects which elude both processes back over 5,000 years, European and Of the 492, a provincial official was quoted are questionable: for example, the sinking of making it one of the Scandinavian cuisine, as saying that the reason some 80% were in the warships as artificial reefs, BC Hydro’s John oldest known spices. Medicinally, caraway is a in cheeses, goulashes, sausages, stews and assessment process had nothing to do with the Hart Generating Station expansion, carminative, soothing the digestive tract, breads (especially rye bread). environment at all. Yet these projects were to ’s proposed mixed- relieving colic, cramps, bloating and flatulence. There’s some quality in caraway that be ‘screened’, some would receive use land development. As English herbalist Nicholas Culpeper wrote counteracts greasiness in foods, which is why ‘comprehensive study’, and a few would have The projects remaining are significant by in The English Physitian (1652), caraway is the spice is a good addition to dishes like ‘review panels’ with full public participation. any criteria: BC Hydro’s Site C project, ‘conducive to all the cold griefs of the head and cheese, sausages, pork and duck. Be aware that Provincial Project Criteria Enbridge’s Northern Gateway Pipeline, the stomach…and has a moderate quality whereby caraway seeds can become bitter with Taseko New Prosperity mine. it breaketh wind, and provoketh urine.’ prolonged cooking, so it’s best to add them to BC’s approach was different. Only certain types of projects attracted the provincial The review of the Enbridge pipeline is being Caraway is reputed to increase breast milk the dish during the last 15 minutes or so. conducted by the federal government under a production and its antispasmodic action will Here are a couple of vegetarian recipes environmental assessment. Logging, road building, forestry, mining, gas and oil separate agreement with the province; it also relieve menstrual pain. The spice is using the spice: remains to be seen whether this joint frequently used in cough syrups, especially for CARAWAY, please see below exploration, agricultural projects, and aquaculture did notrequire assessment. Other assessment procedure will be used for future projects. 0

CARAWAY, from above Borscht ‘n’ Beans • 3 medium-sized beets, 1 Tbsp olive oil Caraway Coleslaw • 2 small onions, diced • 2 apples, cored, peeled and diced • 1 clove of garlic, crushed • 1 small to medium-sized white cabbage • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (red cabbage may be added for colour), • 5 cups vegetable stock WE’LL BE IN YOUR COMMUNITY, sliced thinly • 1 cup cooked garbanzo beans • 1 tsp caraway seeds, ½ tsp mustard seed, • 1 Tbsp caraway seeds, ¼ tsp cayenne TO EXCHANGE THE OLD BC HYDRO ¼ cup toasted pumpkin or sunflower • salt to taste METER ON YOUR HOME WITH seeds Partially pre-cook the beets in boiling water to • 4 carrots, coarsely grated make them easier to peel. Cool, then peel and A NEW SMART METER. • 1 small red onion, finely chopped cube. Heat the oil in a large, non-reactive pot. • ½ cup of homemade or prepared Sauté the onion until translucent, then add the BC Hydro is upgrading homes and businesses with new smart meters. Moving to a more mayonnaise garlic and the beets. Add the vegetable stock efficient, modernized grid will help us meet the growing demand for electricity while • 1 Tbsp + 2 tsp unfiltered apple cider and vinegar, cover and simmer until the beets continuing to deliver safe, reliable power throughout the province. vinegar are soft (about 25 minutes). Puree in a blender, Mix all the ingredients together. Keep in the return to pot, add the beans, cayenne and Here’s what you can expect: refrigerator for one to two hours, then toss caraway seeds and re-heat. Add salt to taste. thoroughly before serving. Add salt to taste. ã Typically, meter installation will take place Serve hot with fresh-baked rye bread. 0 Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. PST.

ã Meter installers will have BC Hydro and Corix logos SATURNA NAMING from page 9 on their trucks and uniforms, and photo the words ‘Santa Saturnina’ to a point on the SPANISH MAP identification badges. Island around which they sailed. Without viewing Galiano’s 1792 map, one (1791) SHOWING ã You don’t need to be home, as long as we have safe and can see that those reading the 1791 map could ‘PTA Y BAYO DE STA clear access to your meter—please remove any physical get confused–it is easy to assume that the SATURNINA’ modifications that prevent a meter exchange. cartographers named the whole island. ã In most cases, the exchange will take less than 10 minutes. However, we ought to go with the clear demarcation that Señor Galiano has provided. ã You will experience a brief power interruption, in most cases it will last 60 seconds. It is possible he may have heard the name from GALIANO’S MAP

For more information about the smart meter installation process, 3713 the other expedition and used it one year later; (1792) SHOWING my primary concern is historical accuracy in visit bchydro.com/smartmeterinstall. ‘ISLA DE SATURNA’ dating the naming of Saturna Island. A quotation from Wagner’s translation of the Voyages That Spaniards Conducted in the exploration on the northwest coast of Pacific Northwest During 1789-1795 strongly America have dwarfed in the mind of the resonates with my own reflection upon that public the achievements of the Spaniards literature and my findings: during the same period… The Spaniards, ‘The great reputation attained by Captain who did far more work, were not so James Cook and Captain Vancouver for the fortunate.’ 0 www.islandtides.com Publication: Gulf Islands Tides (GM) Size: 5.062” x 94 lines (1/4 page) Insertion date: Oct 18 ISLAND TIDES, October 18, 2012, Page 11 Travelling In Hope, A Guide to Good Things –Christa Grace-Warrick s the sunny weather fades away and we dare to leave He does start on islands, Danish ones that are energy self- Not only is Turner a good researcher, he’s a good writer; the garden to its own devices, we start thinking and sufficient. He recounts the hilarious tale of how this came to pacy, pushing convention, slipping cinematically from style to reading about travel. The Geography of Hope: A Tour be— from winning a national competition (or not) to having style, making complex ideas easy to grasp, making fuzzy phrases ofA the World We Need (2007) could be at the top free-beer public meetings. clear. Above all he is a storyteller but not a mystery writer. He of that reading list. And you won’t have to leave Government action, like Germany’s feed- uses an unusual paragraphing technique of setting up one place your chair to get warmed-up—heartwarmed, that in electricity tariffs, has ocasionally provided before leaving the last; you don’t have to puzzle but you want to is. impetus for great strides in energy, housing, read forward. Soon after his daughter, Sloane, is born, and urban design. In Germany’s case it has The jolt is that, as we breathe, these great things are going Calgary’s Chris Turner starts to think seriously had unforeseen, spectacular results, leading on. How can we not know this? And if we do, how can we about things sustainable. Determined to see if there to Germany’s current prosperity and continue with our lives as they are, when in the same moment is any hope left for humankind, he starts on a world resilience in Europe, and world leadership in such splendid things are taking place? tour of the good news destinations, one place renewable energy industries. He anatomizes the attractions in each destination and comes leading to another. But oftentimes, in places that have taken to a startling conclusion: a key factor in willingness to grasp This is travel writing as it never was before. sustainability on board wholeheartedly and sustainable opportunities is community. The Gulf Islands, as Young, upbeat, imaginative and lyrical, Turner with success, he talks with key people, we know, have community in spades. We do lots. What more tuned his eyes and ears to many examples of corporate and individual, who have the can we do? Let’s get cracking! sustainable places, worldwide. His evocative ‘rational exuberance’ necessary to catalyze Baby girl Sloane learned to walk and talk on Turner’s tour of journey, looking at infrastructure and landscapes, extraordinary achievements. hope. Her first word was ‘Wazzat?’ Turner filled in the names and talking to ingenious locals, is as mesmerizing Geography of Hope gradually compiles a to us as the Victorian travel writers were to a public eager for cast of big names: Rocky Mountain Institute’s Amory Lovins, of the amazing sustainable projects they were visiting. Her next new sights and ideas. This time it’s not about shooting big game Earthship’s Mike Reynolds, Grameen Bank’s Muhammad words were, ‘Oh, go see!’ That’s just how I feel. and conquering wilderness, or shenanigans in Venice, but about Yunus, InterfaceFLOR’s Ray Anderson, Cradle To Cradle’s Bill Just like those worthy Victorians, travel reading will change anatomizing how we will all get along and have a good life on McDonough—he visits them all. And there’s quite the list of your worldview. And the way Chris Turner tells a story, you will an overcrowded planet that’s getting warmer too fast. places: Colorado, Hyderabad, Findhorn, Thailand, Montreal, be happy to do so and inspired to bring those distant places His compendium of distant places ranges over all the Chandigarh, Singapore, Freiburg, Taos. Likewise, he visits them home. 0 continents, his description of locations and events is vivid, his all. Chris Turner has written a sequel to Geography of Hope record of the natives’ words is masterful, his grasp of many He’s hell on wheels on the environmentalists. A bit mean, I (Vintage Canada, $22). He has added the experience of the subjects and how they connect is eye-popping. He delves into thought. After all, the environmental movement served a 2008 banking crash to his thinking and gelled a cogent the past to show us how things came to be, not for quaintness’ monumental purpose in cluing us in to all this. But Turner is analysis of how to create the big change needed to put sake but to show us how it’s been done before—it’s oh-so- impatient and he says it’s time for an entirely new attitude to humankind on a sustainable track. The new book is The Leap: doable. He creates a meticulous Baedeker of a possible world get this urgent job done. If our governments are acting like the How to Survive & Thrive In The Sustainable Economy, Vintage, which will fill you with desire for these exotic places. bad guys, for whatever reason, it’s the corporate sector’s good $21. He calls the places he visits the renewable energy guys who can get the dots connected. Meanwhile Chris Turner is the Green Party candidate for archipelago, although they are not islands in the usual sense and His nimble mind moves like electricity connecting one thing Calgary Centre in the upcoming federal by-election, which may be continents apart; he hopes we will join these dots to to another—unbelievable, except that his research is should have us on the edges of our seats, or on the bus to help cover the globe as fast as we can. impeccable. 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NEXT DEADLINE Wednesday, October 24 WORD ADS $16+hst (25 words), additional words 25¢ ea BOXED ADS B&W: $24.50/in+hst COLOUR: $31.80/in+hst DISCOUNTS Prepaid multi-edition series CONTACT Sara or Christa: 250.629.3660, [email protected] www.islandtides.com Page 12, ISLAND TIDES, October 18, 2012 TLC seeks input on priorities ~ Sara Miles he Land Conservancy of BC (TLC) is was not our mortgages, it was operational inviting its members and the public to costs–and this means our wonderful staff its AGM on November 3 in Victoria. working for us,’ said Penn. ‘We tried to create TheT charitable land trust made the news this a conservation economy. It’s heartbreaking year when its accounts were seized by Revenue letting all these people go.’ Canada. It is now getting back into the black With over 300 properties owned or and soliciting input from its supporters to help covenanted, people power is required to keep shape future priorities. it all in shape. One might wonder why TLC For about three years, TLC has doesn’t simply sell some lands. Under been downsizing, and reduced its ‘committed the Charter for Preservation number of staff from about 60 to to rebuilding the Purposes Act, that would be illegal, the current, very lean team of public trust, and but it can transfer properties to three employees. However, doing what is in the other conservation organizations. when a large donation did not best interests of ‘We want to find the best come through in April, TLC was the planet’ ownership management structure unable to pay some of its creditors. for our properties. If there’s an ‘We got into a short-term crunch that equivalent organization locally that can had been accumulating over the year,’ TLC take on management, let’s do it.’ co–founder and vice-chair Briony Penn told Having done an ‘extraordinary amount’ to Island Tides. organize long-term sustainable funding, the Having imposed a cap on its short-term TLC Board of Directors is recommending that debt, and restructured its financial plans to not the ‘most valuable thing’ people can do for TLC rely on large donations, the Conservancy is is to become a member and support the now operating on a membership fees model. organization right now. ‘We are taking responsibility for having lived ‘That gives us secure funding for our beyond our means,’ explained Penn. operations,’ said Penn. ‘TLC is committed to This includes talking with other rebuilding the public trust, and doing what is conservation organizations and redefining its in the best interests of the planet.’ priorities. TLC has grown to serve three distinct One member has issued a challenge to all communities: heritage, farming and nature. As other members to match her donation of $500. government increasingly steps out of ‘It would only take half the membership to conservation, ‘TLC has provided an important eliminate the debt and get us back into the role of saving places to which community business of protecting places,’ stated Penn. groups bring our attention,’ said Penn. Financial institutions like VanCity are TLC helped protect properties that larger expressing an interest in lending their support Photo: Toby Snelgrove organizations were not interested in, or that through legal and financial services, which will Spooky-looking pumpkins in the field at Michell Bros Farm, Saanich. smaller groups didn’t have the capacity to ease the process hugely. manage, such as Sooke Potholes, Abkhazi ‘We have played a very important role. We Gardens, Hardy Mountain Doukhobor need to sharpen it in this time of recession and Museum and Ross Bay Villa Heritage House. focus on what we did best.We want people to ‘We’ve been able to step into these gaps. get excited about what we do again.’ This That’s been our success,’ said Penn. ‘In the past, includes looking at best practices, global we would take on a mortgage because a local models and the membership’s priorities. and group was not able to. It’s difficult being all A survey will be available online, and details + = things to all people, there are limitations.’ will be announced during the AGM, on With limited government support, and a Saturday, November 3, 1-4pm at the University shortage of revenue available for management of Victoria, Michele Pujol Room, Student Year-round gardening starts here… all you need is a greenhouse! and operations, ‘the thing that was killing us Union Building. 0 Halls English Greenhouses are known for high quailty & affordability. Five models, 6 or 8ft wide, 4 to14ft long. Easy to assemble kits. See our website for details. Record set for sunshine during dry September Russell Nursery, Island Agent for Halls Greenhouses If September were a student, her report card greatly in August–in the last ten years, 1370 Wain Road, North Saanich, BC (first exit off ferry) would include gold stars for a sunny amounts have ranged from the record 250-656-0384 www.russellnursery.com/greenhouses disposition (sunniest September on record), breaking 98.5mm in 2004 to 0.8mm in above average warmth, and a notably dry sense August 2003. of humour (third driest September on record), A new September record for sunshine was says Anne McCarthy, Environment Canada set with 288.8 hours, well above the normal Weather Services Specialist. 207.2 hours. It was the seventh warmest Data from Victoria International Airport September on record, with an average high of show a prolonged dry spell since August. 21.1ºC (normal is 19.4º). September rainfall of 2.2mm was way below On average, August and September the normal of 30.4mm, tied with 1998 as the usually combine to bring almost 55mm of 2nd driest on record. rain. This year’s total of only 3.8mm marks In August, rainfall of 1.6mm was also the driest Aug/Sept combination since 1940. below the normal 23.9mm. It was the fifth Total precipitation for the year-to-date is www.uvdynamics.com driest August since recording began at 438.7mm, below the normal 509mm. Victoria airport in 1940. Rainfall varies More info is at www.weatheroffice.gc.ca. 0

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