The Metchosin Muse has a new email address! [email protected] Vol. 27 Issue 12 December 2019

A NON–PROFITMetchosin COMMUNITY PUBLICATION Muse

Donna Berndt, Boomer Carlson, Roxie Fehr and Dr. Robert O’Connor hold the ribbon for ‘Most Innovative.’ All photos: Me’Chosen Medical Team Metchosin Doctor’s Office Wins Award for Their Innovative Approach to Seeking Out a New Doctor for the Community

Dr. Robert O’Connor the beachside, were placed under the logo-monogrammed paper muffin lin- The booth was reflective of the com- photo of the umbrella, with office- ers, and distributed to the conference munity with components of the photo- Like many conferences for professional grown pineapples on side tables on attendees as samples. graphic, visual, sound and material arts; bodies, the annual national Family either side of the chairs. A carved soap- An iPhone recording of the sound freshly grown food; the ability to enjoy Medicine Convention, organized by the stone seal head poked up from under of rolling ocean waves from the beach ocean, nature, wildlife, and lifestyle of profession’s governing body, the 2019 one of the tables. Recalling the classic in front of the office was made into a this tremendous community through College of Family Physicians of printed postcards, “Greetings from… looped MP3 file and played on the of- cycling and other exercise. There were (CFPC), held in Vancouver, featured a Me’Chosen Medical Family Practice” fice’s radio behind the backdrop. This even alumni entrants from both Me- convention floor filled with booths of ran across the top of the backdrop with completed the multi-sensate experience tchosin Day and the Apple-Bee Festival. interest to the attendees. It had an award a postmark reading “Metchosin, BC” in of an office site visit: the imagery of Hundreds of family doctors are now for the ‘most innovative booth’, with the top corner. The podium displayed working here, the relaxation of lying in aware of a place called Metchosin that many large companies and organiza- the booth’s tagline: “Picture a job here.” the lounge chair, the smells and tastes looks like a paradise, and that an op- Small printed cutouts of kayakers, of the fresh fruit and the sound of the portunity exists there for working or tions vying for the heightened profile windsurfers, cruise ships, orcas, eagles, soft ocean waves. being a locum in family medicine. that recognition would bring. But this etc. were attached by magnets to the The booth also featured the house- Special thanks go to Donna Berndt, year it came home to Metchosin. backdrop, slightly changed every day, call bicycle on a custom live-edge bike Roxie Fehr and Boomer Carlson for The booth, created and staffed by the to illustrate a standard day at the office. rack. The Berg Bike was hand-built on expertly staffing the booth; Jeanette office team of Metchosin family doctor A spinning rack of sixteen standard- the island from scrap titanium tubes McMillan for her feedback, John Papuc Dr. Robert O’Connor, was selected as sized postcards, showed various com- left over from aircraft construction and for apples and apple slices, Dr. Dan the most innovative by votes submitted ponents of the office, Metchosin nature features a rear bike rack with a detach- O’Connell and Deb Bonderoff for see- by the approximately 4000 family doc- scenery or wildlife, under the similar, able doctor‘s bag. ing the patients while Dr. O’Connor tors and family medicine residents who “Greetings from…” header. The back of The booth also addressed local attended the conference, Lisa Bradshaw attend the conference, thus making it a the postcards described the job oppor- issues such as the world-class com- and Deb for the gifted seal carving, Dr. peer award. tunity and contact information listed, munity, housing options, and leisure Joan Rosenberg for her suggestions, The booth was composed as a living all hand-drawn in a classic style. opportunities. Derek Wulff for apple and tradeshow postcard. A large photo of the office’s Various fruits, including Chilean The postcards and business cards expertise, Kelly Burns for her horticul- view overlooking the shores of the sea, guava fruit, all grown at the office, were sold out in the first day and a half, so ture savvy, Pete Willing for providing complete with a large beach umbrella, fresh picked the day before the con- a helpful print shop created more. All the live edge and his transport van, the formed the backdrop. An office work ference, along with apples and apple the Chilean guavas also sold out, and Metchosin mayor/council/district staff, chair and a lounge chair, symbolizing slices kindly provided by Metchosin more were brought in from the office by neighbours, patients and the commu- the ability to both work and relax by residents. The fruits were placed in floatplane. nity for their kind advice and support.

The winning booth. Baskets of fresh fruit: citrus and guavas The housecall bicycle, with a doctor’s bag on the back, on a live-edge picked from the office and apples from bike rack. members of the community. 2 Metchosin Muse • December 2019 Metchosin Muse Letters to the Editor Email [email protected] Web www.metchosinmuse.ca The Metchosin Muse welcomes letters to the editor, of not more than 200 words. Your letter may be edited for edito- rial style or length. Please email your letter to [email protected], or leave it at the Metchosin Country CO-EDITORS SUBMISSION DEADLINE AND Store. Please sign your letter. An address and telephone number are required but will not be published. Letters to Johnny Carline, 250-474-4601 HOW TO SEND COPY the editor express the views of the writer who is solely responsible for their content. [email protected] The 15th of each month. Please send Allen Jones copy as an email attachment using Microsoft Word, text or RTF to: the budget refl ect my values? Does it show that MUSE TEAM [email protected]. A Budget for Our we are motivated to live more sustainably? Does Joan Bradley Typewritten or handwritten copy is it adequately fund environmental protection? acceptable if you have no access to a Jennifer Burgis We can have anything we want. We just can’t Johnny Carline computer. Do not send PDFs. Photos New Realities should be high resolution, i.e., not have everything we want. Eileen Carlson taken with phone or tablet. Leave hard Maybe we don’t need a business as usual Joannie Challenger copies of articles in the Muse box at Our Council and District have done very well Brian Domney, Editor Emeritus budget with a cost of living increase added to the Metchosin Country Store or fax for us in past years keeping property taxes low. Leslie Eaton each line item. Maybe we need to look at the 250-483-5352. All submissions may be We have a lean team in the offi ce. Councillors discretionary expenditures, all of which might Laura Farquharson edited for length, style and suitability of Barrett Fullerton and volunteers do some of the work that other be nice options, and highlight what we are will- content and language. Submissions are districts pay for. Pat Holloway accepted on this understanding. Please ing to do without in order to eff ectively deal Allen Jones visit our website for more information: This year the budget process is starting early. with our new realities: climate change, threats to Joan Kew www.metchosinmuse.ca The initial draft projects an 11.5% increase in the our forests and water courses, and the scale of Bruce McIntosh Metchosin part of the tax bill. Public comment AD DEADLINE development at our borders. Jim MacPherson th will be invited. The questions for me are: Does Barbara Methvin The 15 of every month for Bev Bacon Dauna Neveaux month-end publication. Barb Sawatsky ABOUT THE MUSE The Metchosin Muse is a local non- ADVERTISING profit, arts, interests and activities publi- Jennifer Burgis, 250-881-8280 cation, produced by the Muse team. The Poetry Corner [email protected] opinions expressed in articles are those of the authors, not the paper. The Muse CLASSIFIEDS endeavours to promote respectful and Eileen Carlson, 250-478-1036 open dialogue in the community and [email protected] aims to interest a broad cross-section of Ode to Our Parks & Trails Coordinator the residents of Metchosin and Beecher ACCOUNTS Bay. Eileen Carlson, 250-478-1036 The Muse is delivered, free of charge, From an avid trail user [email protected] to most households in Metchosin. Copies are also available at Metchosin There’s a gal who’s been tending our trails. Country Store, the Community House, DESIGN AND LAYOUT Have you seen her? She’s been hoisting split rails, Leslie Eaton the Municipal Hall, The Broken Paddle Coffee Shop, My-Chosen Café, Red she’s been clearing away deadfall, DISTRIBUTION Barn Market, Glenrosa Restaurant, and yanking out weeds … CO-ORDINATOR Nootka Rose Bakery and Mill, She’s been mending park benches ‘mongst other green deeds. Barrett Fullerton Pedder Bay Marina, Hans Helgesen Elementary School, Happy Valley Store, Parks & Trails has received an injection – EVENTS [email protected] East Grocer, Royal Bay Bakery, Weirs Beach RV, Westmont School, this gal’s spunk is a loving infection! MAILING ADDRESS William Head Federal Prison, Willow ‘Neath her willowy frame c/o E. Carlson Wind Feed & Tack, and at the Juan de it’s pure sinew and fl ame. 4985 La Bonne Road Fuca, West Hills and Goudy branches A steward this fi erce and fl eet changes the game! Victoria, BC V9C 4C5 of the Public Library. She has toiled with men from the pen, CURRENT CIRCULATION: 3000 led work crews through forest and fen; with chainsaw or compactor, she’s Metchosin’s x-factor, Parks & Trails helpers have tirelessly backed her. Visit our website! www.metchosinmuse.ca There’s a truth ‘bout Metchosin that needs tellin’: The Muse website provides a quick way to access Metchosin’s Some are fi xin’, while others are fellin’. monthly newspaper, and it allows those with vision challeng- The blarney ‘round Blaney? es to magnify the .pdf fi les to a comfortable reading size. The The cutting, the confabbing? current issue and issues from the past year are there, along with This gal’s living proof giving’s better than grabbin’. contact information and information for submissions, advertis- Have you seen the new signs at each trailhead? ers, and deadlines. Designed, made, and mounted by – you guessed it! She serves Mother Earth, With all that she’s worth, Muse Subscriptions This saint of the trails, this salt of the earth. The contribution that Bonnie Farris has made to our community as Parks & Trails Coordinator We can mail the Muse to you each over the past two and a half years almost defi es the imagination. She has repaired and month for $30 a year if it is to be refi nished memorial and other park benches, laboured on the restoration of Blaney Trail, posted to a Canadian address. battled invasives with inmates from William Head, helped to create new trails (including the Please send your information and cheque to the Head of our new path that runs through the village core, which she spent days compacting on her own), Subscriptions Department: and designed visually stunning signs for each trailhead. This doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface. For your labours of love making Metchosin beautiful, thank you, Bonnie! Joan Bradley 10 Bradene Road Victoria BC V9C 4B1 Tel: 250-478-3451 Or you can email us at: [email protected]

METCHOSIN MUSE AD RATES Display Ad Sizes 1 Issue 2-5 Issues 6-12 Issues Bus. Card (H) – 4”w x 2.5”h $47.00 $42.00 $38.00 Deck the Halls Bus. Card (V) – 2”w x 5”h $47.00 $42.00 $38.00 2x4 – 4”w x 4”h $77.00 $67.00 $59.00 1/6 page (V) – 4”w x 5”h $95.00 $87.00 $75.00 with Something Else 1/6 page (H) – 6”w x 3.3”h $95.00 $87.00 $75.00 Bev Bacon 1/4 page (V) – 5”w x8”h $145.00 $129.00 $115.00 1/2 page (V) – O.3”w x 8”h $285.00 $265.00 $240.00 If you think Holly is jolly, Insert 8.5" X 11" (supplied only) $259.00 per month per month you need to think again. Banner – 10.3”w x 2”h $96.00 $88.00 $76.00 It’s nasty and invasive, Full Page Ad (if available) $569.00 ~ no additional taxes ~ taking over our terrain. Discount on 2–5 and 6–12 issues. Full payment in advance of publication The birds love those red berries, and carry them afi eld, Camera-ready ads only in PDF format; Classified Ads where holly sprouts by thousands, full payment in advance. We will happily 25 words or less $10 they can accidentally yield. recommend an ad designer with Deadline: 15th of each month. reasonable rates to create your ad. Monthly payment This year you can help, For more information please contact in advance. Please call by removing holly sprouts. Jennifer Burgis, 250-881-8280, Eileen Carlson 250-478-1036. Let’s save Metchosin’s forests, email [email protected]. by keeping holly out. December 2019 • Metchosin Muse 3

COUNCIL NEWS DECEMBER 2019

Sure Wire Electrical (1979) Ltd. ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS Service Calls – Small Renos

DAVE RIGBY 815 Tiswilde Road Victoria, B.C. Residential Yard Burning 250-883-5992 Cell V9C 4E8 Please check the website at www.metchosin.ca for the current conditions or call the Fire Department at 250-478-1307.

Professional Pet Sitting and Dog Walking since 2006 Reminder – It’s Time to Renew Your Business Licence Cookies Critter Care Year ‘Round Bottle Drive Businesses should have received their renewal notices in the mail for the 2020 Business SERVICES: TRAINED IN: For Animal Rescue! Scheduled Pet Sitting • Pet First Aid 100% of the proceeds go to local Licence year (Nov to Oct). Every business operating in Metchosin, including home-based -Dogs, Cats, Small Critters, • Dog Safe (www.dogsafe.ca) rescues. Just call for a pickup! businesses, requires a business licence. Metchosin also participates in a regional intermunici- Small Livestock • Dog Aggression. Overnight Pet Sitting • Administering Meds pal business licence scheme so that businesses such as contractors and mobile sales based in -In Your Home • Working with pets with Metchosin only need one licence to operate in the region. Drop In Pet Sitting behavioural issues. -30 mins onwards Dog Walking • Insured and Bondable Outstanding Property Taxes to Accrue Interest beginning in January -On-leash, at the beach, at the • Vet Recommended park, • References Available it’s all good fun! If you have unpaid 2019 property taxes, please make payment arrangements in order to Errands & Appointments Pets -Appointments or run pet-related Love avoid interest charges beginning in January 2020. Metchosin off ers a property tax monthly errands Cookies! payment program and can work with you to arrange payments for outstanding taxes. Claim Professional Pet Sitting & Dog Walking In Metchosin & West Shore your Home Owner Grant prior to the end of the year, if you haven’t claimed it already. Also, [email protected] if eligible, you may defer your current year property taxes up until December 21st, so long as facebook #CookiesCritterCare all penalties have been paid in full. 250-415-9335 www.cookiescrittercare.com No Soil Permit Delivery

Property owners are reminded that from November 1 to April 30 each year, soil delivery is restricted in order to lessen the wear and tear on Metchosin roads during the wet, winter months. Limited amounts of fi ll may be permitted in some areas, depending on the amount of fi ll and location of your property. Contact staff to fi nd out the requirements for dumping fi ll during these months. Metchosin Seeks Volunteer Trails Coordinator

Would you enjoy working outdoors with other Metchosin volunteers on community trails and parks? Then there’s a post for you! Metchosin Council is seeking a new volunteer Trails Coordinator. To apply, please submit a letter of interest and a brief resume of experience in confi dence to Metchosin Council by mail or to: [email protected] For more information, please see www.metchosin.ca. Council Meetings

Please see meeting dates and times for the upcoming month. Meetings are held in the Coun- cil Chambers unless otherwise stated. Meetings are subject to change; for updated informa- tion please call the District office at 250-474-3167 or check www.metchosin.ca.

Council Meeting and Finance & Environment Committee ...... December 2, 7:00 pm Healthy Community Advisory Select Committee ...... December 4, 7:00 pm

Planning Committee, Parks Committee Five Star rated and Public Works Committee ...... December 9, 7:00 pm Council Meeting ...... December 16, 7:00 pm By Appointment Parks & Trails Advisory Select Committee ...... December 17, 7:00 pm 598 Parry RD 250 508 1777 Heather Metchosin Municipal Hall | www.metchosin.ca | 250-474-3167 | [email protected] www.thegratefulpooch.ca Facebook

LATORIA Notice to Metchosin PHARMACY Ask about our foot care nurse. Muse Article and 115–611 Brookside Road by the Red Barn Market Phone 250-590-7012 Friday is ➭ Letter Writers.

Please note that because of the Christmas Schedule we would appreciate submissions for the January edition to arrive by December 13 rather than our regular deadline of the 15th of the month. Please note also that our new email address is: [email protected] Please use that when you are sending your wonderful written contributions. 4 Metchosin Muse • December 2019 David Ranns A dignifi ed but moving memorial ceremony refl ected in the large crowd in attendance at was held on October 28 at the St. Mary of the his memorial and in the tribute paid in the Incarnation Church for David Ranns, resident eulogy by his nephew Adam Ranns. of Metchosin for over 70 years, who passed In addition to his wife, David was prede- away on October 1. ceased by his granddaughter Kaylee and his Predeceased by his beloved wife Leila Lee, sister, Patricia. Surviving to mourn are his David fi lled the void created with his shop daughter Lisa, his son Sam (Kristie), his grand- museum of eclectic curios, his forge and his children Will, Jeunevieve, Kennedy, Gina, fl ower rocks, some of which were on display Ryan and Molly, his great grandson Aiden, his at the ceremony. He was known to be a man of sister Judy and his brother John (Cheryl). great physical strength and the photographs Outside the church, his brother John, of him as young man, part of the photograph Metchosin’s Mayor, who lived adjacent to collection also on display at the ceremony, David, said through tight lips, “He was my gave proof to that. He entertained children brother, and my best friend.” Few words, but at Metchosin Day for almost three decades, they spoke volumes of the relationship David showing his ability to fi x things using an old had with his brother and, one could easily tell, abandoned water pump. with the rest of his family. The Muse extends A generous man, the degree to which he its sympathy to them all. will be missed by friends and family was Retiring Parks & Trails Coordinator, an Inspiration. Jennifer Burgis

It isn’t just the fact that she is a “gem”, says Councilor Marie-Térèse Little, liaison for the Metchosin Parks &Trails Advisory Select Com- mittee (P&TASC), it is the enthusiastic involve- ment and hands-on skills that make Bonnie Farris a stand-out. All the way from sourcing materials to loading a pick-up, to the expert use of chainsaws, shovels, Puller-bears and sledge- hammers, Bonnie has made her mark on many of our parks and trails. Check out the upper/ lower LaBonne Trail which was among the fi rst remediated paths that Bonnie identifi ed for improvement and re-worked for smoother use by hikers. Mark Atherton, a former Parks & Trails Coordinator and current Chair of P&TASC, kept running into Bonnie while both were on their daily forest hikes traveling in opposite direc- tions. Knowing that Brent Donaldson was about to retire from the position at the time, Mark suggested to Bonnie that she take on the role. Some green pixie dust must have been fl oating in the air that day as Bonnie readily agreed to the suggestion. Bonnie has been in Metchosin for only 4 years but has been coordinator for half that time. She Bonnie Farris, retiring Parks & Trails Coordinator. was always a willing student under skilled folk Photo by Marie-Térèse Little such as landscape designer Anne Taylor with the Blaney Trail restoration, but more impor- Municipal Works crew, trail and parks neigh- tantly she brought her tremendous energy to the bours, Venturers Boy Scouts, William Head position. In her words, “It takes a community work crews, and “classic cedar” benches. to build and maintain the number of beauti- Bonnie will still be hiking our trails but will ful walking trails.” She says kudos are due to now be devoting more time to her profession as the P&TASC committee, the willing hands and a graphic designer. machines provided by long-time residents, Thanks Bonnie. A Metchosin Moment Working for our community

Mitzi Dean MLA, -Metchosin 250-952-5885 #104-1497 Admirals Road [email protected] MitziDean.ca

Brussels sprouts are booming at Sea Bluff farm! Bob Mitchell helping with the Brussels sprout harvest.

MDean-MetchMuse-1804.indd 1 2018-04-12 2:26 PMPhoto by Sheri Ross. December 2019 • Metchosin Muse 5 Metchosin’s Invitation to Attend Meeting on Community Natural Strengths Connector Metchosin Carol Carman lands inside the boundaries of the district (see Online Calendar their March 2011 Report to Council at Recent communications to the Metchosin Founda- metchosin.civicweb.net/document/795) are Dawn Carolee tion have stimulated discussions about grassroot important contributions to local planning around responses to decarbonization and greenhouse gas carbon sequestration. Several local farms, the Saturday, November 30 reduction. A natural synergy exists between these Foundation has learned, have begun working 10:00 am – 12:00 pm eff orts and the Foundation’s mandate to pursue with the Habitat Acquisition Trust to plant and Council Chambers, District of Metchosin action and education on local environmental is- enhance hedgerows around their fi elds to promote 4450 Happy Valley Road sues. The Foundation has been exploring ways both biodiversity and agricultural productivity. that it could include some of these eff orts inside The communications received by the Founda- You are invited to join us from 10:00 am until noon on Sat- its funding mandate, while remaining sensitive to tion have also pointed toward eff orts made by urday, November 30 in the Council Chambers at District of national political diff erences. other communities to promote grassroots ac- Metchosin to learn about our new Community Connector Some of the Foundation’s projects—the protec- tivities that address greenhouse gas issues. The Metchosin Online Calendar. tion of undeveloped land through conservation information found on three websites – The purpose of a combined and shared calendar is to help and covenants, species and biomass databases naturalclimate.solutions, mnai.ca, and in event planning and organizing, while improving aware- that are maintained over long periods such as the drawdown.org—include information on envi- ness and involvement with all programs in Metchosin. Are Metchosin bioblitzes and the insect inventory— ronmental stewardship practices that could yield you ready to connect and coordinate with other community are inherently related to an increasing grassroots multiple benefi ts if applied to our own commu- organizations and not-for-profi ts? If so, we hope to see you interest to understand and reduce Metchosin’s nity. The Foundation encourages Metchosin resi- there ! carbon footprint. The Foundation’s eff orts, how- dents to consider which of these outside strategies NOTE: This is a hands-on session. Please bring along ever, are only a small part of what has been done, might be successfully imported. your notebook, laptop, smart device or tablet to learn how to and continues to be done, by Metchosin resi- Happy Holidays to all friends and neighbours access, set-up and use the shared calendar and post events. dents. A Metchosin Green Blue Spaces strategy, from the Metchosin Foundation board of direc- You will also discover how to save time for your organiza- for example, has been in place for over a decade. tors. We look forward to hearing more of your tion! Your feedback is important and will help us coordinate Information about this project, which is linked thoughts and ideas in the New Year, in person or this ongoing eff ort to improve communication between local through the municipal web site, can be found at through our website at metchosinfoundation.ca, organizations. https://metchosinmarine.ca/greenblue.htm. The about the importance of building a sustainable We invite questions from all community groups and will multi-year eff orts of the Metchosin Environmental society and what can be done about it by local ef- hear from those who took part in test groups with the calen- Advisory Select Committee (MEASC), especially forts, including the projects that might be under- dar build, so far. If you have questions or for further informa- its work on identifying environmentally sensitive taken by the Foundation. tion please contact Dawn at 250-478-5150.

Rough Voice Christmas Sing-along

Barb Sawatsky appreciated are cookies (homemade or other- wise), gift cards, handmade decorations, jams, Tuesday, December 10 etc. Please check dates on store-purchased food 7:00 pm items as nothing past dates is accepted for the Metchosin Community House hamper. 4430 Happy Valley Road Rough Voice Singers also requests a mini- mum $2 donation for the Metchosin Commu- Rough Voice Singers is hosting their seventh nity House, sponsor of this program. Christmas carol sing-along at the Community Want more information? Call us at House. Join us for an evening of music led by 250-478-0553. local musicians and scores of people in full- throated song before enjoying hot cider and treats. As in past years, we are asking for dona- tions of quality food and items for a Christmas Mrs. Claus (a.k.a. Stacy Ross) belts out a rendition of Santa Baby in hamper to be given to a Metchosin family who 2018. Photo by Barb Sawatsky could use some cheer this season. Gratefully Metchosin Preschool Update We Had A Ball at the Ball! Morgan Evans As Metchosin Co-Op Pre- school is a parent-governed, The Halloween Monsters parent-participation program Ball, held on October 26 at the operating under the co-op Metchosin Community Hall, model for over 60 years, the was truly a night to dismem- Preschool has succeeded as a ber! The Metchosin Preschool direct result of the enthusiasm families and teachers appreci- and dedication of the families, ate all the eff ort put into this teachers and community mem- fundraising event, and would bers that show their support like to say a heartfelt “fangs” through fundraising, volun- to everyone who attended teering, donations and enroll- the event in support of our ment. The Halloween Monsters wonderful little preschool and Ball was a fantastic example the Muse, to everyone who of such wonderful community donated their time, delicious support and involvement. We chili and amazing decora- hope to make this an annual tions, as well as the spook- event! tacular local businesses and Keep your eyes peeled for individuals who donated time our next community event in and prizes: DJ Ness T, Down December! to Earth Nursery, Broken Pad- Editor’s note: On behalf of the dle Coff ee House, Red Barn Muse Team, who were present at Market (Esquimalt & Latoria), the Ball, I want to indicate our Jazzercise Metchosin, Mol- support for the eff orts and attitude son Canada, Glenrosa Farm of the Metchosin Preschool Restaurant, Stickleback West Parents refl ected in this article – Coast Eatery, Tat- what a fi ne, fun, positive group too, Shamrocks Lacrosse and they are – and express our thanks Sherwin Williams Paint. for being included in such a A trio of happy party goers! Photo by Morgan Evans wonderful evening. 6 Metchosin Muse • December 2019

’Tis the Season Johnny Carline In following this path, we reach out to that person and a lemon, an onion, a pair of old some poverty-stricken village will rarely, if ever, fully en- wish them well. socks, etc. I would, as tradition in Africa. I was delighted, This is also a time when demanded, rail against Santa’s As we approach the season of dorse one side of a debate and touched and proud. Amid peace and goodwill and the so will rarely fully satisfy any- we naturally think of family, trickery and call him names, all the fun, laughter and, yes, season to be merry, we at the body. Indeed, our aim is not to friends and community. We can especially ‘that old goat’. Muse want to extend our good embrace one side of a debate give to community by looking When my younger son was presents that characterized our wishes and gratitude to all our but to encourage the diff erent fi rst to our local businesses barely three, he interrupted Christmas, he had understood readers, our advertisers, our sides to fi nd a way to embrace as our source of the presents my rant, tugged my beard, that giving, especially to those subscribers, and our donors, each other; or at the very least and goodies that we enjoy and and delightedly announced most in need, was the great- share at this time, and by vol- that Santa wasn’t the old all of whom are supporting to embrace the idea that every- est source of pleasure and was this little newspaper. one involved in these debates, unteering to help, fi nancially goat, daddy was the old goat. and in other ways, the many Henceforward, the bottom of right at the heart of the Christ- This year, we consciously whether they be residents, organizations which make our my stocking always contained mas spirit and experience. It broadened our approach and business people, councillors, community what it is. some goat related item – soap, included coverage of ‘lo- municipal staff , activists, even is, to this day, the most memo- Finally, because I love the cheese, fi gurine – provoking rable gift I ever received. cal issues’ which, almost by journalists love Metchosin and traditions of the season and I the appropriate response. defi nition, generate diff er- have the welfare of its commu- love a good story, please allow Some thirty years later, with This is the season for shar- ences of opinion. We did so nity at heart. me to indulge in one seasonal the same son, now with a girl- ing, so I thought I would share not to deepen or exploit those So, if this time really is the story. When my two sons were friend, standing smirking at that with you. From the entire divisions but in the belief that season of goodwill, maybe it is young, our traditions included me, I reached the bottom of my Muse team, to you all, we wish respectfully airing our diff er- a time when each of us could the one from England where stocking and found nothing you the best of the season and ences and sharing our opin- think of someone with whom the father discovered some- but a rolled-up piece of paper. ions with ears wide open is we have had a disagreement, thing not very Christmassy at I extracted it, opened it and peace, health and happiness in one way to build bridges and perhaps one where our feel- the bottom of his stocking, typ- read it. It was notice that a goat the year to come. community. ings have been hurt, and to ically a lump of coal, but here had been given in my name to Pearson Students Taking Part in CAS Week

Allen Jones physical exertion contributing activities involving intellectual, to a healthy lifestyle; Service: physical, creative, and emo- Students from Pearson College unpaid and voluntary tional experiences. UWC (United World College) exchange that has a learning This year, two students went in Metchosin were involved in benefi t for the student. to Armenia for the Aurora various community activities The purpose of the program Dialogues: Humanitarianism during this year’s CAS Week is to develop students who are in Education Conference, 79 (Creativity, Action, Service) refl ective thinkers, understand- students were camping as which took place from October ing their own strengths and part of outdoor experiential 20 to 26. An important part limitations, identifying goals, learning while 108 students of CAS week is making and and able to devise strategies left campus to stay with host strengthening connections with for personal growth. They families in Metchosin and individuals outside the campus need to be willing to accept Greater Victoria to pursue community. The coordinator of new challenges and to be activities such as with the the program was Fatma Dogus. aware of their responsibili- Community House and the The students were involved ties towards other people and Heritage Museum as well as in: Creativity: arts and other the environment. Being active dozens of other projects. experiences supported by participants in collaborative creative thinking; Activity: projects allows them to value

Photos: Top Left: Bob Burgis is helped by two Pearson students at the Heritage Museum. Photo by Allen Jones Bottom Left: Pearson students learn to make pumpkins ready for Halloween at the MCA House. Photo by Allen Jones Bottom Right: Pearson students exploring nature at camp on the Sunshine Coast Trail. Photo by UWC December 2019 • Metchosin Muse 7

The two Metchosin students, Eden Zandstra and Antoine Croquelois, are fifth and sixth from the left. Photo by UWC Pearson Students Rewarded for Study of The School Museum. Photo courtesy of the Metchosin Museum Society Marine Pollution The School Museum: An Update Allen Jones the best way to restore the structure, Allen Jones they had collected using machines to Robert Patterson, a local restoration melt and mold the plastic into sale- Located on Happy Valley Road, the consultant, was appointed and he has Over 220 million tons of plastic are able products. Among the end prod- Old Schoolhouse contains a collection produced a report following examina- produced each year and appropriate ucts considered are reusable cutlery, of educational artefacts and photo- tions on site. disposal needs to be addressed. plates, containers, cups and bowls, and graphs. It is looked after by the Me- The next stage is to find workmen Seven of the European Union jewellery. tchosin Museum Society and the board to carry out improvements to the member countries, plus Norway and Following a trip to Armenia for the is planning some works of restoration, drainage and works to the timbers Switzerland, recover more than 80% Aurora Dialogues: Humanitarianism repair and improvement. The proposed inside the crawl space. Any local of their used plastic. However, this is a in Education Conference, where they works are being helped by a grant from workmen with an interest in helping world problem. were runners-up, they have been Heritage BC. with this worthy cause should contact Following worrying UN reports, fortunate to receive a grant of $2000 The building is timber frame con- the president of the Museum Society, two students from Lester B Pearson to carry on with their project. This is struction and some of the timbers at Pat Holloway, at 250-478-0765. College initiated a project to examine a wonderful recognition of the work ground level are showing signs of pow- The museum is now closed to the the problem on the beaches of southern that Pearson students are doing in der post beetle. In order to ascertain public until April 2020. and looked at pos- Metchosin. It has now been rewarded sible solutions. They are students at an international level by the United Antoine Croquelois from Switzerland World Colleges. So, their work will and Eden Zandstra from Vancouver, continue in the coming academic year Know something interesting happening in BC. Their supervisors are Laura when they hope to finish building Verhegge and Jake Nixon. the machines and plan to collect The project started with a clean-up more plastic from local beaches for Metchosin? Talk to the Muse ! field trip at Esquimalt Lagoon. They shredding and molding. determined to recycle the plastic that 100% Your Local Building Supply Store Locally hore owned & Windsor Plywood Wests operated WE LOVE LOCALS. WANT A NEW FLOOR OR DOOR? WE INSTALL!! Floors, doors and so much more Whether you’re building new or renovating we do complete installation! That means tearing out your old oors, disposing of it and revamping or installing new baseboards all in a timely fashion. We keep on top of the trends 4 sopages come 4 pages and see our new lines of vinyl, hardwood, oak and laminate ooring ... and see why Windsor Plywood Westshore are the installation specialists! Full of Full of Come and walk through our doors and walk on our oors. Deals! Deals! Door and Floor Installations Fully Guaranteed

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The Eleventh Hour of the Eleventh Day of the Eleventh Month M J Carr M.J. on behalf of St Mary’s Sunday School class. Each year, on the Sunday After Canada’s national an- before Remembrance Day, them and Last Post, the ceremo- at the 145-year-old church of nies ended with a responsorial St. Mary the Virgin a special prayer. Those in attendance Remembrance Day service is were invited to join Veterans held. The tradition appears and the congregation for a to have originated with the reception inside the Hall. Chief and Petty Offi cers’ The 2019 Remembrance Day, Association and, because many November 11, dawned slightly of this group were also Legion overcast and cool but crisp. members, the traditional By 10:30 am a crowd of sev- service has grown over the eral hundred had gathered all years. along Metchosin Road around Veterans have a long asso- the Cenotaph. This year’s ciation with St. Mary’s Parish. Metchosin commemorative ser- vices were organized by Dan The Coronation Oak planted Mairi and James MacKinnon led the march from the Fire Hall to the Cenotaph on Remembrance Day. O’Connell and Tom Henry; Mr. near the church entrance was Photo by Barb Sawatsky Henry also acted as Master of donated to the Parish by the Ceremonies. Services began Chief and Petty Offi cers’ As- with Metchosin Councillors sociation in 1937; the Legion Sharie Epp and Andy MacK- provided the brass plaque un- innon leading everyone in O der the oak. In 1953, the Legion Canada in English and French placed the Cenotaph where it respectively. The Reverend now stands between the church Anita Saroop off ered prayers. and the Parish Hall. And, the The fi rst wreath was pre- oldest part of the Parish Hall sented by the Canadian Forces – which has since had two Ammunition Depot, Rocky additions – was once an army Point followed by a wreath hut used by the gunners at from Canadian Forces Base Mary Hill near William Head. (CFB) Esquimalt. The District According to parish member, of Metchosin, the Metchosin Andrew Spray shortly follow- Volunteer Fire Department, ing the end of WWII, the gun Metchosin Search and Rescue was removed and the building, and various children’s and now settled at St. Mary’s, was youth groups including the designated the Parish Memo- 14th Juan de Fuca Scout group rial Hall because of its former all laid wreaths. military association and then After these formalities, Me- its use by the Legion. Later, it tchosin’s Free Range Singers was renamed St. Mary’s Parish sang an a cappella piece entitled Hall. One More Step. A lone bugler On Sunday, November 10, provided a haunting rendi- Veterans on parade at St Mary’s Church Service on Nov 10. Photo by Allen Jones a full congregation gathered tion of Last Post which echoed at the church for the annual across the quiet fi elds. After a service offi ciated by The moment of silence, the bugler Reverend Aneeta Saroop. A played Reveille and then the Colour Party from the Royal two pipers, Mairi and James Canadian Legion (RCL) #91 MacKinnon, played Amazing Prince Edward Branch (Lang- Grace. This was followed by ford) attended, carrying the the Legion Prayer and moving ceremonial fl ags for the annual musical rendition of Canadian Dr. John McRae’s In Flanders blessing. The RCL Prince Ed- Fields performed by soprano ward #91 Branch was repre- Sarah Bidanjiri. sented by local President Norm The 2019 commemoration Scott, Grant Vandale, Russell service with Councillors Epp McLellan, Erwin Kobialko, JR and MacKinnon leading all in Bourdage, Marilyn Sjostrm and God Save the Queen. “It was,” Jim Percival. Each had decades according to 82-year-old Dr of service and Mr. Bourdage is Alan Porter, retired Base Sur- also a Member of the Military geon and Chief Medical Offi cer Order of Canada. from CFB Esquimalt (ret. 1992) Following the service, a “so much more intimate” than short but poignant ceremony the larger Remembrance Day was held at the Cenotaph services held in many towns which sits between the church and cities across Canada. and St. Mary’s Parish Hall. Metchosin Mayor John Ranns placed a commemora- tive wreath on behalf of the Municipality of Metchosin and a handmade children’s wreath Cub Scouts await their turn at the wreath laying. Photo by Barb Sawatsky was placed by Grade 3 student December 2019 • Metchosin Muse 9 Historic Buildings of Metchosin 4283 Metchosin Road – ’Chosin Pottery Allen Jones shortly before passing. He taught in England, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Located on Metchosin Road and built in China, Korea, Japan, Israel, and Canada. 1905, this residence with potter’s studio It was in Montreal, where Judi was and gallery is described as ‘shingle-style Head of Ceramics at the Visual Arts bungalow’ in the Metchosin Heritage Centre, that Robin and Judi luckily met Sites Inventory of 1987. Major Matthews again having known each other years was the owner in the First World War earlier. After a year together, they deter- and a Mr. Carlson was the last recorded mined to settle back in Metchosin where owner before the late Robin Hopper (d. the climate was more amenable to their 2017) bought the property in 1977. It desires to work with ceramics as well as was described as structurally in need of building a garden and home together. It repairs, a ‘handyman’s special’, but this was renamed ‘Chosin Pottery. did not deter Robin Hopper who had The house was built on rock founda- done renovations previously. tions with wood frame construction and The house was raised above ground beige shingle siding. There have been level in order to lay foundations and to refurbishment works over the years with form a crawl space. Structural beams all single pane windows being upgraded were replaced and the structure was but some wooden window frames are given a full overhaul and repair remov- original. In 1994 a large gallery area was added to the existing showroom. The ing the original fireplaces and chimneys roof has black asphalt shingles and some and rebuilding one room that became the flat roof areas that were tested to their showroom. The house was extended in limits during a heavy snow fall some 1977 with a new split level and adding on years ago. a larger kitchen and dining room to the A major feature of the property is the design of Robin Hopper. landscaping which includes 600-year-old Robin and his first wife, Sue, lived in Douglas fir trees, a water garden, and an Metchosin with son Jon and daughters, orchard. This is Robin’s ‘Anglojapana- Karen and Sarah, until the breakdown dian’ garden built out of two and a half of their marriage. acres of scrub and jungle to his detailed After an amicable separation from design. It includes numerous ceramic Sue, and some travelling, Robin met his pieces to reward the observant eye. second wife, Judi Dyelle. They are both Judi continues to produce showpiece celebrated potters and the quality of porcelain, making Metchosin a desti- their work must be seen to be fully ap- nation site for people who appreciate preciated. Robin was the recipient of the fine pottery. The garden is still looking prestigious Bronfman Award for Excel- magnificent but now needs volunteer lence in Fine Craft and Judi received the helpers to maintain the planted areas. Lieutenant Governor’s Medal of Excel- Another memorial to Robin Hopper lence from the Ontario College of Art. is the Metchosin International Summer Upon graduation she received a Canada School of the Arts at Pearson College. Council Arts Grant to study ceramics Robin was the founding president. This in Japan for a year and a half, going on year it celebrated its 35th anniversary. to teach pottery in Toronto, Vancouver, For that special Christmas gift, visit the Montreal, and Victoria. Robin was an in- gallery on weekends between 10:00 am ternationally known potter, teacher, au- and 5:00 pm, or during the week by call- thor, garden designer, and arts activist. ing first, and you will be enchanted by the He also received the Order of Canada variety of pieces on show and for sale.

Photos: Left, top to bottom: Approaching the house from the front. Photo by Allen Jones. One part of the beautiful garden. Photo by Judi Dyelle Rear of the house in 1977, pre-renovation. Photo by Judi Dyelle The rear of the house today, showing the original house and the showroom extension. Photo by Allen Jones Above: Exquisite pottery on display in the showroom. Photo by Judi Dyelle 10 Metchosin Muse • December 2019 December 2019 • Metchosin Muse 11

Photos: Left: Denise Armitage Left Bottom Row (left to right): Tommy Fisher; Cy and Linda Hemus; Germaine Pauwels Right Top Row (left to right): Councillor Sharie Epp cuts ribbon as Art Brendon MACCA Chair celebrates; Dawn Boshcoff The Legacy Project Creator Curator; Doris Creasser, Sandy Jenkins Right Middle Row: A full house for storytime Saturday; Elinor Whitney-Griffiths; Shirley WIld; Jan Poulin Right Bottom Row: Audrey Jenkins; Christina Willing; Anne Greenwood; Doug Ruth

All photos by Dawn Boshcoff except the portrait of Dawn which was taken by Denise Armitage

that helped to form their child- who at one time in Metchosin, Beach Road. Jan’s storyboard were shared by senior sto- Legacy Project hood perspectives. couldn’t live without her horse. features each unique piece and ryteller Denise Armitage, The Legacy Storytelling Project: Cy and Linda Hemus The Greenwoods once slept placement. who displayed several gift Stories – shared the hilarious antics of where the District of Metcho- Local legend Ron Jenkins items including pillows and their roosters and hens, the sin building now stands and is featured as we know him: a memory books that she had Seniors and Student Storytellers Share History, Friendship and More Some story told through the eyes among Anne’s fondest memo- country music star, a treasure created from her own personal of Goldie the rooster. Smart- ries are those that take her from hunter, builder, taxidermist photography. Dawn Boshcoff the seniors visited, and memora- trinkets, tokens and collectibles After a full summer of record- and Geezers Learning Lab at the phone technology was used to the Shetlands to Osoyoos to and many other things. The A memorable collage of ble and enduring conversations that would help to illustrate ing, reviewing, editing and SRC to learn about how to access Highlights produce a series of animated and back home to short video-documentary, photographs was discovered resulted over four separate visits their tales. Many rummaged formatting, each story was pub- a variety of stories online or to videos to illustrate The Adven- Metchosin. narrated by his surviving wife on several walls that decorated The Legacy Project Gala was Dawn Boshcoff held October 1 coinciding with in June 2019. through old boxes and took lished on the web, in a series of sign up for 2020 Storytellers. tures of Goldie the Roo. Their Who other than Audrey Sandy Jenkins, is her version of her home and accompanied the plan is to introduce the hen fan Jenkins could speak better to Our Legacy Lives. story told by Christina Willings International Day of the Elder Per- Storytelling expert Dyan a sentimental journey as they photo albums, slide shows, mov- Thanks to project partner their story in clan to a young audience. The full-spirited volunteerism and Words, thoughts and stories who has lived in the area for son at the new Seniors’ Resource Marie and photographer Lesley located dated photographs and ies and audio podcasts which Danny Buchanan from West- Elinor Whitney-Griffiths video debut delighted Cy’s the early days of building the blended, evolved and inter- more than sixty years. She was Centre (SRC) in Metchosin. Preston provided publishing and personal mementos. “These feature the seniors and students mont and his students: Ben documented the history of the and Linda’s two grandsons, foundation on which this com- twined during the lengthy well known for having taught The Digital Storytelling Exhibit storytelling tips, while graphic would just bring on more and who made up the project teams Molson, Cameron Lang, Tanner Whitney-Griffith family and farm while recording her story. who attended a lively storytell- munity so solidly stands? In production process, adding hundreds of residents of all attracted hundreds of visi- illustrator Christina Merkley cre- more memories of happy times.” of The Legacy Project. Clouston, Chloe Johon, Elyse She was joined enthusiastically ing on the big screen at SRC. her ninety-sixth year Audrey more depth and layers to the ages to enjoy square dancing tors throughout the month of ated a visual map that includes said Elinor Whitney-Griffiths. Coordinator of the Seniors’ Perman, Ailsa Hanton, Annalize Over the past month, this by daughter Janet McGuire, Shirly Wilde and contribut- recorded two volumes of video audio and video clips. Many with her and her late husband. October. the faces of storytellers and Resource Centre, Dawn Boshcoff Loubser, Sarah-Anna Wilson, familiar places that link their unique digital storytelling proj- created The Legacy Project. She Chloe Volk, Keiran Laughlan, early on in the project. The ing poet Ian Yates told the tale blogs for her Legacy Project, seniors, including long-time Doris Truscott (nee Creas- The Legacy Project paired stories to audience interests. ect grew to cover many places states, “The unique aspect to Sampson McNeill, Elliot two lovingly compared their of the old mansion Gracefield covering Jenkin’s Corner Store resident Douglas Ruth, shared ser) provided her commentary seniors from Metchosin Seniors’ The students listened atten- and several generations involv- this project is that anyone in the Beelman, Kostantinos beginnings at both the Metcho- Manor, pulling us into the and the earliest days of the recollections in The History of from the St. Mary’s Cemetery Association and grade seven and tively as each senior began to ing many families. The Legacy future should be able to access Agloritis and Tristan Boxshall sin Preschool and Metchosin mystery within those grand Metchosin Firehall. She de- Glengarry Farms. His firsthand where two generations of her eight students from Westmont unravel their histories through Project brought together story- these stories online at any time.” who participated in the project. Elementary School, and looked walls. Shirley’s granddaughter, lighted a full house at seniors’ knowledge represents those family are remembered, with Montessori School to participate the interview process. Through tellers, neighbours, friends and The public can find any Legacy We also want to acknowledge back on the family, who became Rebecca Wilde, utilised her storytime where the live audi- who historically inhabited more spaces reserved for those together in an inter-generational clever questioning and skilled acquaintances of all ages. Project or publication online by the CRD Arts Commission Metchosin farmers. skills as a graphic artist to The ence consumed her hilarious the huge acreage that borders still here. At ninety years old, storytelling project. listening, students learned to Each storyteller added their searching the storyteller’s name through the CRD Arts & Culture Many participants drew Legacy Project and to the pub- recollections. along Rocky Point and Taylor Doris is the eldest of eight The seniors quickly captured craft the Story of the Storyteller. own uniqueness, familiarity and via Google, and you can access Support Service for their gener- family members closer for lished version of The Secrets of Jan Poulin, daughter of the Road down to Taylor Beach. children spanning over twenty- the curiosity of these students As a result, they were able to fondness to the sharing of their stories by email link or in the ous support of The Legacy Project. added contributions. Germaine Gracefield Manor. legendary Daisy Bligh, car- Tommy Fisher decorated the two years. She and many other with their personal stories of contribute to each project, both memories. They were intro- video section of their Facebook Follow us on Facebook Pauwels invited daughters, Published author and ried forth her mother’s voice exhibit hall with his framed local seniors, including Olive familiar places and spaces, student and senior biographies duced to technology tools that Page @Community Connector @Community Connector Sue Pauwels and Katherine internationally acclaimed poet and artistically illustrated the pictures of treasured collect- Buchanan, recall details of revealed through interviews that written in first and third person. have helped them to leave their Metchosin (no spaces). Local resi- Metchosin (no spaces). Rockwell to add to her memo- Catherine Greenwood, daugh- history of this pioneer family ibles, including calendar views growing up with few resources were conducted by each of the Storyboarding followed legacy and bring it forward for dents are encouraged to book an Call 778-433-5038 for more ries. Each had a unique recol- ter of senior storyteller Anne through the heirlooms that of his unique restorations that in the thirties and forties, draw- youths. Westmont’s students with each senior and they then future generations, to enjoy and appointment with a technology information or email lection of the old, so-called, Greenwood, added poetic are entwined in the eclectic make up his antique car col- ing a stark contrast to our lives and staff also hosted tea when rediscovered hiding places of learn from. tutor through the program Geeks [email protected] “famous people and places” justice through a child’s eyes, patchwork fence lining Witty’s lection. More family heirlooms lived today. 12 Metchosin Muse • December 2019 Conversations with the Fire Chief Johnny Carline automobile rescue. Is that because it was a particular This is the third of a series of interest of yours? conversations with Fire Chief, Chief: No: the interest had Stephanie Dunlop, exploring developed here long before the challenges facing a I came on board. It just hap- Volunteer Fire Department in a pened, I guess. But we are rural area. lucky in that we have the space JC: In our first two and our response partner, conversations, we explored WestShore Towing, brings us what it means to be a firefighter vehicles, free of charge, so we in Metchosin, and specifically can practice and develop our structure fires and brush and skills. And yes, we have had forest fires. Today, I want to ask teams competing successfully about some of the other types at the national and interna- of work you do. Last time, we tional level and we have two mentioned briefly automobile officers who were invited to accidents and rope teams. Can Brazil in an assessor role – so you give us more information we have done well. about those? JC: And it is needed. Chief: Those are two of what Chief: Yes, it is. But cars are are known as ‘technical’ areas getting steadily safer, so there are because they require special fortunately fewer and fewer cases technical training beyond that where the jaws of life are needed. of regular fire fighting. JC: How about high angle JC: So, there are other and rope rescue? technical areas as well? Chief: We have a rope team Did trash carelessly thrown from a car lead to this? Photo by Tara Thom Chief: Actually, there are and those skills are called upon five technical areas: extraction maybe once a year in Metcho- from automobiles, high angle sin, people falling down a cliff and rope rescue, swift water, or an embankment rescue, but Barred Owl Meets Car – hazardous materials and we also use them in a mutual confined spaces. aid situation. You need a lot of JC: And is training required people for that kind of rescue, in all five areas? so we work with Sooke and Chief: There are three levels Langford quite a bit. A Close Call of training or competence in JC: What does ‘swift water’ all five areas. The first level is encompass? Tara Thom properly and is ready for release. Wild ARC is ‘awareness’ which means being Chief: Really any situa- looking for financial support to rehabilitate this sufficiently knowledgeable to tion where the water is at calf It was in September that a barred owl was owl, as it will take many hours of specialized know what kind of problem level or above, including both found lying still at the side of the road in the staff care, feeding and flight-testing to allow the exists and what kind of help streams and open water (shore- Cordova Bay area. The owl had been hunting owl the time and support it needs to recover. is needed. The second level line). The danger is drowning for food and was hit by a car near the busy road. Often people will throw food waste or apple is ‘operations’, which means or injury as a result of slipping, A concerned member of the public brought cores at the side of the road, as they are com- knowing enough to get involved, being knocked off your feet or the owl in to Wild ARC for assessment and postable. This can be extremely dangerous to helping, and keeping people being swept away. We have a treatment. many animals, including raptors, who investi- safe. The third level is the little skiff and that came in use- An X-ray was given to the owl to see if it had gate the scraps while looking for food and may ‘technician’ or expert level where ful recently when we rescued any internal breaks or bleeding. Its eyes were get hit by a car in the process. The injury to the people are fully knowledgeable a pregnant woman who was closed and it was found to have suffered head Barred owl currently in care may have been to deal with the situation. injured. By being able to trans- trauma. It was very lethargic and could not prevented. Please make sure that all waste and JC: That’s a lot of training port her by boat across a lake, stand properly. The staff sedated the owl and compost is properly disposed of to prevent situ- in specialized fields. Are there we gave her a much smoother gave it a quiet place to rest. They will continue ations like this from occurring in the future. many Metchosin personnel at the ride to safety than bumping to monitor and treat the owl until it is able to fly expert level in any of these areas? along a forest track. There are Chief: Oh yes. Automobile not a lot of occurrences, but it is rescue is, of course, a long time nice to be prepared for when it focus for this department and does happen. Metchosin Uke Jammers: pretty well every senior officer JC: I would anticipate that Back in action 3rd Friday monthly, is fully certified in that, but we there are similarly few hazmat also have seven or eight officers or confined space incidents. Metchosin Community House, 5:00-6:30 pm. at the expert level in both high Chief: Thankfully, we have angle/rope rescue and swift not had a serious hazardous All levels. Come join us singing and playing! water rescue. The Capital material situation, just small Region District are really the amounts of fuel, easily dealt technical experts in hazardous with. As for confined spaces, materials and, except for me, we don’t get the challenges big our senior personnel are at cities face, but we do have sep- the operational level. The tic systems and trench rescue operational level is also the dangers that are real risks and level we are at in confined you really need to be trained space rescue and is the area for those possibilities. we are looking to improve our JC: It sounds like we are well training on next year. prepared and in good hands. JC: For a village volunteer Chief: I like to think so. fire department, you really JC: Thanks, Chief. have achieved quite a bit in

Wait, what? Know of something interesting happening in Metchosin? Talk to the Muse ! [email protected] Back row: Susan Allman, Darah Hansen, Karen Ursell, Betty Ann Snyder, Maureen Fredrickson, Middle Row: Anthea Browne, Colleen Browne, Rae Coates, Kenzi, Hanne McCulloch, Laureen Harrison Front Row: Memet Burnett (photographer), Life’s Better in Pyjamas Gal, Heather Rodger, Judy Trainor. December 2019 • Metchosin Muse 13

250-478-0422 Compassionate, professional, courteous care. Your pets… our family

Caring for pets in the Westshore since 1981. We are proud to be members of this growing community.

ArtPodsters at latest opening, central photo left to right: Diana Farrell, Linda Simrose, Memet Burnett, Melanie Dawson-Whisker, Diana Smith, Frank Mitchell, Courtney Standing Quality High Speed Colour Copies Blueprints • Typesetting Rubber Stamps ArtPod Remembers Laminating Business Cards Memet Burnett what is in the works that you can partici- Heads up that ArtPod’s January show pate in: (opening Saturday, January 18, 7-9:00 pm) Public Fax Service Metchosin ArtPod’s newest show opened • Friday painting drop-in (second and will feature popular ceramic installation on 14 November and will run until 12 fourth Friday of the month, all day) all artist Samantha Dickie, who will also be MONDAY TO FRIDAY: January 2020. This show features some of media, all levels, no registration neces- giving a workshop on mold making. In 8:00 am–5:30 pm the cooperative members’ newest and old- sary, $5 March, we are holding another open call est works with the theme What we remem- • Live portrait Mondays drop-in (every on the theme Bird/Song, a collaborative ad- SATURDAY: ber. What we forget was wide enough to Monday 10:00 am–12:00 pm) all media, venture with anchor artist Nancy Slaght, 10:00 am–5:00 pm encompass both. Opening night is a great all levels, no registration necessary, $5 ArtPod, and Rocky Point Bird Observa- opportunity to hear some of the stories • (NEW!) Botanical watercolour with Jean tory. More on that to come! 250-478-5533 behind the works. Maddison – 2 days: Friday, November Keep abreast of new workshops and 2811 Jacklin Rd. ArtPod is running an increasing num- 29 and December 6, 12–2:00 pm. Regis- events in the Facebook group Metchosin ber of programs and workshops designed trations, questions and supply list from ArtPod, or come by the gallery any Friday (near Goldstream) to include and stimulate both emerging Memet Burnett: [email protected] to Sunday from 11:00 am–4:00 pm and and established artists. Past workshops • Seasonal swag making workshop – chat to a member on duty for the latest on topics such as fl oor cloths and acrylic Saturday, November 30, 1–3:00 pm, $35 happenings. Contact [email protected] to sgraffi to have been very well received. materials included. Register with Diana be put on our newsletter e-mail list. Please consult the following notes to see Farrell: [email protected] ArtPod’s GoFigure! Displayed Amazing Local Talent UPCOMING EVENTS May 2: Open Mic Music Night Here stand some of the com- May 12: Mother’s Day munity artists who were UPCOMINGUPCOMINGMay 16: Pub Quiz EVENTSEVENTS: invited to show their art in May 2: Open Mic Music Night DECEMBER 5TH: Metchosin ArtPod’s fi rst ever Open Thurs thru Sun Open10amMay – Mic4pm12:& MusicMotherSpecial Events ’Nights Day open call: GoFigure! which just Check our website for information closed early November. www.glenrosafarm.comMay 16: Pub Quiz DECEMBER 19TH: They are standing in front 5447 Rocky Point Rd. Metchosin Pub Quiz/Trivia Night of some of anchor artist (and (kmOpen 30 on Thursthe Galloping thru Goose) Sun 10am – 2504pm-478&-6186Special Events workshop presenter) Angela DECEMBER 31ST: Menzies’ colourful portraits, CheckNew our Year’s website Eve for Dinnerinformation Left–Right these are: Phyllis www.glenrosafarm.com Lysionek, Angela Menzies, Please see website for Irene Khurana, Penny Wood- additional5447 Rocky events Point and Rd. holiday Metchosin hours! worth, Wendy Chartrand, (km 30 on the Galloping Goose) Linda Kirsten, Frank Mitchell. 250-478-6186250-478-6186 Editor’s note: Owing to an 5447 Rocky Point Rd., Metchosin editorial oversight, we missed the km 30 on the Galloping Goose! article covering GoFigure! last Open Thu– Sun 10am–4pm + Events month. We apologize and hope this www.glenrosafarm.com makes up a little for our mistake. 14 Metchosin Muse • December 2019

Metchosin Community House 4430 Happy Valley Road Info: 250-478-5155 HOUSE Email: [email protected] www.metchosincommunityhouse.com Rick Petillion – Certified Mechanic, 20 yrs exp. HAPPENINGS Ongoing Programs Mondays

Vancouver Island Health Authority Adult Day Program: 9:00 am–3:30 pm. Contact Mo- bile program coordinator Ken Hillicke at 250-213-2440. Pearson College Students Outreach: 3–4:30 pm. Helping seniors and youth in our com- WESTCOAST TIRE and WHEEL Ltd. munity. Invite Pearson College students to visit or help with a project. Particularly aimed since 1980 at Metchosin seniors; call 250-474-0634 and leave a message so we can determine if you are Nitrogen eligible. Finishes December 6 and restarts January 13, 2020 Force Variance Balancing HOURS: Mon.-Fri: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm Knitting Café: On the fi rst and third Mondays monthly, 7:00–9:00 pm, knitters of all skill Sat: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm levels, including beginners, are welcome to this informal and friendly get-together. For 250-889-6161 information call Laura, 250-478-1197, email [email protected]. or Tuesdays 250-642-4044 Drop In Painters Art Group: This friendly and supportive group of artists and hobbyists meets Tuesday mornings 9:30 am–noon at the MCH. Everyone is welcome. For more info contact Arlene at 250-391-7905. Last session December 17, will restart January 7, 2020. 4730 SOOKE RD. • VICTORIA • 15 mins from Colwood Corners Knitting Café: On the second and fourth Tuesdays monthly, the Knitting Café has after- www.westcoasttires.com noon sessions from 1–3:00 pm. See the Monday listing for contact information. Not at the House on December 24. Singalong – Metchosin Rough Voice Singers: The Rough Voice Singers meet at the Com- munity House on the second and fourth Tuesdays each month from 7–9:00 pm. All are welcome to join us at this fun, drop-in sing-along group where a good singing voice is not BBB Torch Award Winner - Community Service Winner LCT Magazine Global Operator of the Year a requirement. $2/person. Contact Barb Sawatsky (250-478-0553). Not at the House De- cember 24 returning January 14, 2020. LIMOUSINES Wednesdays “... it's how you get there." Vancouver Island Health Authority Adult Day Program: 9:00 am–3:30 pm (see Monday for details). Christmas and New Years! Not at the House December 25 or January 1. Sta functions, Christmas Light Tours Thursdays Designated Driver and Airport Service Creative Rug Hooking: First and third Thursdays, 10:30 am–1:30 pm, led by Sheila Stew- Gift Certicates available! art, certifi ed instructor of Traditional Rug Hooking. Beginners are welcome, but should contact Sheila (email [email protected], or call 250-595-6406) to discuss needed supplies. Experienced rug hookers are invited to bring their own projects. Bring a bag lunch; tea and coff ee available. No fees but donation jar available to cover refreshment costs. Last session December 5 and will restart January 2, 2020. Fridays

Parent and Tot Program: 9:30–11:30 am. The Parent and Tot Drop-In Program invites moms, dads, caregivers and their young children to join us Friday mornings for our com- munity program. Children will enjoy our new toys, books and craft opportunities. Parents Mention this ad when you book and we’ll donate 10% will enjoy our relaxed, supportive environment, parent resource library and opportuni- of the base rate to the Metchosin Muse! ties to connect with other parents and kids. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones. P&T follows the School District 62 calendar. Last session for the year December 20, www.lalimo.ca [email protected] restarts January 10, 2020. Pearson Student Activities: 2:30 pm– 5:00 pm. For more information call 250-474-0634. 250-391-9000 Finishes December 6 and restarts January 13, 2020. Ukulele Gathering: 5–6:30pm, 3rd Friday of each month. Open to community members of all ages and levels of talent. Bring: a ukulele, capo, tuner, music stand, and a few songs you are willing to share/lead/teach others with appropriate song sheets for others, if not from songbook below. Suggested songbook: Jumpin’ Jim’s Daily Ukulele (as a base resource to work from) if you have it. Film Night: No fi lm night this December. Events Pearson Winter Concert: December 1, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Metchosin Community Hall, 4401 William Head Rd. The international students promise to delight its audience with variety acts and songs of the season. A delicious dessert raffl e and refreshments will be served with the proceeds going to the Metchosin Community House. Admission is by donation. There will also be a food bank donation box for non-perishable goods. Blue Moon Christmas: Friday, December 13, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Dave and Lesley Preston host their annual Blue Moon Christmas, featuring a Yorkshire Lad’s Christmas with festive songs and stories performed by local artists. Refreshments available. Admission by donation of cash or non-perishable goods for local food banks. Art On The Walls: Doug Gilbert in collaboration with the Metchosin School Museum Society has compiled and organized a show of 18 historic photographs of Metchosin dating back to the early 1900s. They are hanging on the Community House walls for all to come and enjoy. Viewing times are Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–1:00 pm. The Art on the Walls program off ers the House as a wonderful venue for artists to show and display their works. For more infor- mation, please call the MCH at 250-478-5155 Metchosin Community House Offi ce closure dates for Christmas & New Year: The MCHouse will be operating as usual with regard to the rentals that have been booked (see The Muse has a new email address on-line calendar at www.metchosincommunityhouse.com), however the MCH Offi ce will be closed December 23 to January 6, 2020. [email protected] www.metchosincommunityhouse.com December 2019 • Metchosin Muse 15

14TH JUAN DE FUCA (METCHOSIN) SCOUTS CANADA Christmas Trees to Support Camp Barnard Joan Kew

Just like last month, as I write this our fearless Scout troop is at Camp Barnard, enjoying the very wet weather—which leads me to the importance of Camp Barnard and its annual Christmas Tree fundraiser. If you haven’t found that perfect tree yet, please consider buying a local Cowichan tree from the Scouts, who set up every year at the View Royal Canadian Tire at Old Island Highway and Admirals Road. This year the sale runs from November 29 until December 21, weekdays from 4:00 to 6:00 pm and weekends from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, ending at 2:00 pm on December 21. Ever- green boughs are available by donation. The funds raised will be used to support operations and devel- opment at Scouts Canada-owned Camp Barnard, which is used by Scouting and many other youth groups. We are so grateful to our friends at View Royal Canadian Tire for providing their Garden Centre to us for this fundraiser. What great community support! Scouts isn’t just about camping in the rain—youth are involved in many other activities, from having fun outdoors to volunteer- ing in the community. To find out more about Scouts in Metcho- sin as a participant or as a leader, please email Evergreen boughs by donation, and Christmas trees for sale to support Camp Barnard. Metchosin’s [email protected]. Venturers will be there on Friday, December 6 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm. Photo by Curtis Becker Hans Helgesen Elementary School What’s Been Happening at Hans Helgesen School? Cathy Hussey and Jon Carr In recognition of Orange Shirt Day on Sept 30, we had more What a beautiful autumn it has than half of our school wear been here at Hans Helgesen. This orange shirts. We recognized the year students are recognizing In- important day with an assembly digenous ways of acknowledging that featured a territory welcom- each of thirteen Saanich moons ing, a performance by the drum in the year. We are now heading group and a play performed by into SJELCASEN: The Moon of the Grade Four students. Special Putting Your Paddle Away in the thanks to our drama teacher, Bush. As she has done for many David Epp, who led the event. Hans Helgesen in the fall. Photo by Jon Carr years, Gramma Lee Charles from The play was based on Phyllis Scia’new Nation continues to Webstad’s story of her first day students engaged in issues that fought and worked for the peace for the assembly with presenta- share her language with students; at a residential school when her matter to them and practicing for and freedom that we enjoy in tions, artwork and classroom enhancing their understanding of new orange shirt, bought by her when they are voting age. Canada today. Remembering all activities. A special thank you to the culture. grandmother, was taken from her. On Friday, November 1 we that they have done during times Mr. Epp for leading the school in There have been many We are very proud of how our were fortunate to have Naomi of war, military conflict and peace song and planning the assembly. highlights in the year to date. In school has created meaningful Walser, who is Ojibwe from Beau- helps us to better understand our Grade Five students were door September, our school partici- discussions around this impor- soleil First Nation, lead lacrosse nation’s history and its future. As hosts, masters of ceremony and pated in the Terry Fox run and tant topic. lessons for our school. Students a school, we chose to show our the audio-visual crew. raised over $200. This event is On Election Day, October 21, learned four basic skills: pick- tribute to the soldiers in a variety As a new administrative team, always an inspiring time to focus Grades Four and Five students ing up the ball, cradling, passing of ways: we wore a poppy over we are very thankful for the in- on the grit and determination participated in the Canada-wide and catching. Her passion for the our hearts; we walked to the as- volvement of our families and the Terry demonstrated during his student vote. Each student cast sport was incredibly inspiring. sembly in silence and we con- Metchosin and Scia’new Nation Marathon of Hope. Our students an official student ballot for a On Friday, November 8th, our tinued the silence by refraining communities. As we head into the were very excited to participate Member of Parliament for the school community came together from clapping after speeches and cooler season, we look forward to in our school event; one student local region and placed it in an to pay tribute to those men and performances. We thank all of our the winter concert and other fun even told us he was wearing his Elections Canada ballot box. It women around the world who staff for preparing our students activities. Hych’ka Siem. “Terry Fox runners”! was very encouraging to see

of us and for some of us a time system, which includes the op- the monthly Muse articles from of indulgence. Is there a way eration of the brain. When you 2019. Do this for each month Just One Change for exercise to balance these stretch, you lengthen some areas and if you write it in pencil you things out? In Metchosin there while relaxing others. The brain can edit it if your improvements Joan Rosenberg and Kathleen physical activity have up to a Sutherland are at least three yoga instruc- in turn regulates automatic were better than you thought. 30% lower risk of dementia. tors offering classes. One of functions such as heart rate Some ideas to get you started BALANCE the great things about yoga is and blood pressure. It secretes are things like disc golf, lawn Challenging your balance Well, we have come to the end that it is so adaptable to differ- hormones, which act as chemi- bowls, develop a timed scaven- may be as simple as standing on of this year’s Just One Change ent populations with diverse cal messengers to help insulin ger hunt for friends and family, for exercise. We sincerely hope one leg or closing your eyes. But for added challenge and fun, physical abilities and needs. control, metabolism, mood get a hula hoop, go to a play- you have enjoyed participat- Though the popular image of and emotion. So, the next time ground with some friends and ing, have developed some new include balance boards, balance cushions or sturdy foam rollers. yoga may be a young person you’re in a bad mood (too busy, see what you can (still) do…we habits and discovered some If you have a yoga block, trying twisted up like a pretzel those too many sweets?) some simple are all still children at heart if we additional ways of getting and standing one legged on it. who are less flexible can enjoy a stretches or a yoga class may allow ourselves to be. C hildren staying fit. A reminder, however, Keep safety in mind at all yoga practice just as much and give you the lift you need. love to move so by all means if it’s been awhile since you’ve times: remove objects around potentially benefit from it even AEROBIC keep up the good work you exercised or have health issues you and stand near a wall or more. For those that find it dif- Get a 2020 calendar or use have started and have a great or concerns, talk to your health stable surface in case you lose ficult to get up and down from an online one. Plan your fit- and healthy 2020! care provider before starting any your balance. the floor I know there is at least ness goals and add these to the exercise routine. According to STRENGTH one Metchosin chair yoga class. calendar. Add in ‘I will try a the UK’s National Health Ser- December is dark and that Research supports that stretch- new aerobic/balance/strength vice it’s been medically proven may inspire inward reflection. ing affects not only our muscle challenge this month and it will that people who do regular It is also a busy time for many system but also our neurological be (fill in the blank)’ or revisit 16 Metchosin Muse • December 2019 Blinkhorn Nature Park: FireSmart Pilot Project Bonnie Farris season or chipped (the eastern side of the trail). Over the past number of weeks, The goal of thinning is to Osprey Silviculture, based out remove the amount of fuel of Metchosin, has volunteered available to a fire both on the their services to FireSmart forest floor (surface fuels) and Blinkhorn Nature Park. It’s a in the mid-canopy (ladder pilot project showcasing what fuels). FireSmart Forest Fuel FireSmarting is all about and Abatement treatments are encourages our community to about managing the natu- engage in similar planning. ral forest fuel load build up What’s being done in while encouraging a mixed Blinkhorn would be considered stand and preserving forest a FireSmart Lite approach: health in forested areas next decreasing both the abundant to where people live. The ladder fuel (low lying branches, knowledgeable folks at Osprey the standing dead, small trees) have approached this project and the ground fuel in the with sensitivity to the area proximity of the trail. This will combined with innumerable help decrease the potential of hours of sheer hard labour both a crown fire and injuries (My-Chosen Pizza’s donation to park users from falling trees. of a couple of pizzas helped Wildlife snags are being left keep them going!). The work intact and large wood and Osprey has done thus far is coarse woody debris stays on greatly appreciated. If anyone the ground to support forest is interested in FireSmart- health. Other debris is being ing their property, contact: burned on site in small piles [email protected], Metchosin’s Osprey Silviculture group out firesmarting on Blinkhorn. Photo supplied by Bonnie Farris off the trail during the rainy 250-474-7993. Acting Mayor? Deputy Mayor? Future Mayor? Johnny Carline perceived greater complex- just one Councillor. A Deputy ity of being Mayor of that Mayor, where it exists, is At the November 4 Council municipality. clearly an ongoing position for meeting, Councillor Little noted The Acting Mayor concept just one Councillor. In contrast, that most municipalities rotated is established in the Community Acting Mayor positions are the position of ‘Acting Mayor’ Charter which requires every usually rotated among Coun- Complete Bobcat, Trucking & Mini Excavating Services and asked whether Metchosin municipality to provide for cillors (mayors become adept might not do the same. the designation of a councillor at scheduling weaker Council- 4604 Morland Road, Metchosin, B.C. V9C 3X4 Councillor MacKinnon as the member responsible for lors to months where nothing Locally owned & operated since 1984 suggested there may be two acting in the place of the mayor happens). when the mayor is absent or Free Estimates 250-478-2980 different jobs. Councillor Ka- The Deputy Mayor model hakauwila stated that indeed otherwise unable to act or when is attractive where there is a the office of mayor is vacant. • Custom low maintenance landscapes there were. One position is Act- perceived need for the most It is very far from being just • Boulder walls and rockeries ing Mayor which is largely cer- capable person in a second-in- ‘ceremonial’. When the Mayor is emonial, attending community command role, supporting the • Selective land clearing • Rockhound unable to act, the Acting Mayor events to bring greetings and Mayor. The Metchosin tradi- • Concrete/rock breaker • Stump & brush removal has “the same powers and the like. In contrast, the other is tion seems to equate ‘seniority’ duties as the mayor,” includ- • Driveways/R.V. parking • Culverts • Drains Deputy Mayor, a position she with ‘capability’, which can be ing whatever involvement the • Top soil, bark mulch, sand and gravel occupies, which has significant debated, but the model is still Mayor has in administration. administrative responsibilities in that of a full-time deputy based The ‘ceremonial’ tasks CONTRACT OR HOURLY RATES the running of the municipality. on some concept of capability. referred to in the Metchosin Mayor Ranns declared that The Acting Mayor position Council discussion – bringing Metchosin’s Council has had – apart from it appearing to be greetings, cutting ribbons, etc. a long tradition of appointing is commonly referred to as the only option provided for the most senior Councillor to ‘acting on behalf of the Mayor.’ in the Charter – is attractive in be the Deputy Mayor, reflect- It is a day-to-day delegation that it spreads the opportunity ing the Metchosin practice of of a task by the Mayor, not the for developing experience having members of Council ‘Acting Mayor’ envisaged in around the Council members. play a significant administra- the Charter, and a bit of a red Acting Mayors are neces- tive role and the need to have herring. sary but is a full-time Deputy the most experienced Council- An issue might arise from needed? In , lor in the Deputy Mayor posi- the fact the Community Charter where a Mayor’s most signifi- tion. In other municipalities, only refers to Acting May- cant ‘powers’ (as distinct from the ceremonial role of Acting ors not Deputy Mayors. On the important ‘leadership’ role) Phone cards • Movie rentals • Mayor might be adequate. He the principle that legislation are usually considered to be Galloping Goose sausage • Locally made meat distributed the ceremonial role includes all the powers that setting up committees and run- among Councillors and, if the municipalities are intended to ning the proceedings of Coun- and fruit pies • Bakery items • Fresh produce and Council so wished, he was have, only Vancouver could cil, it seems the legislators did cut flowers • Hardware and Grocery • willing to formalize this. appoint a Deputy Mayor. not think so. But a few munici- • Prepared sandwiches • Fresh brewed coffee • The CAO, Lisa Urlacher, Nonetheless, some municipali- palities, including Metchosin suggested that Councillors ties have provided for Deputy to date, would disagree. You need it, we have it! review the Council Procedure Mayor positions by the device One possible factor is that a Bylaw and the discussion of amending their Council Deputy Mayor may receive, or Open ended somewhat indecisively. Procedure Bylaw. Whether at least be thought to receive, Monday to Friday – 6:30 am to 9:00 pm An examination of the this makes it lawful is open to exposure beneficial for future statutes might help sort out question, but Metchosin’s By- election prospects. Avoiding Saturday – 8:00 am to 9:00 pm the terminology. The Deputy law follows the Charter closely the risk of being perceived Mayor position is established and does not provide for a as favouring one Councillor Sunday – 8:00 am to 9:00 pm in the Vancouver Charter where over others in this way may be Council may appoint a Deputy Deputy Mayor. VISA, Mastercard, Interac Mayor and prescribe his/her However, the issue being motivation for many Mayors duties as they see fit. This es- discussed was whether to to adopt the politically safer sentially second-in-command rotate whatever the position strategy of rotating an Acting Phone & Fax: 250-478-2405 was presumably granted to is among all Councillors or Mayor position. But ultimately Vancouver because of the to limit the appointment to it is a Council decision. December 2019 • Metchosin Muse 17

Notice to Metchosin Muse Supporting Environmental Article and Letter Writers. Stewardship Please note that because of the Christmas Schedule we would appreciate submissions for and Education the January edition to arrive by December 13 rather than our regular deadline of the 15th of the month. Please note also that our new email address is [email protected] So, in our please use that when you are sending your wonderful written contributions. Community

visit us at: Our Community Winter Gift metchosinfoundation.ca Registered charity from Pearson College Linda Spiller Our very own Metchosin Community As- sociation (MCA) is the co-host of this joyous Sunday, December 1, 7:00 pm event. The MCA is excited to bring back the Metchosin Community Hall popular Dessert Raffl e where you can buy ticket 4401 William Head Rd for a chance to take home a delicious whole cake or other satisfying baked delight. This year’s Every December one of Metchosins’ fi rst sea- Refreshment Bake Sale will feature delectable Hedging & sonal gifts is the heart-warming Pearson College brownies, shimmering sugar cookies and Winter Concert. The engaging talents, energy healthy-yet-satisfying energy balls along with and camaraderie of 80 international students our delicious and warming Metchosin apple tea. Special Orders from the world over always delights and im- Proceeds will go to the MCA, the Goldstream presses us. Food Bank and the Valerie Cochran Memorial See UsedVictoriaHAPPY feature NEW ad for YEAR! updates and specials. Under the direction of Choir Conductor Fund to benefi t Pearson College students. Open by appointment only until February 6, 2018 Teodora Georgieva who shares, “Every year, This year’s concert will take place Sunday, Open Tues.–Sat., 8:30 am–5:00 pm. Closed Sun.–Mon. Pearson College students surprise us with a December 1 at the Metchosin Community Hall vibrant selection of songs, dance and poetry where doors open at 6:30 pm for a 7:00 pm start from around the world to celebrate the holiday time. Entry is by cash and food bank donations. season with their Metchosin neighbours.”We are Santa says, “Come early to get a good seat!” guaranteed to once again be well entertained. 2020 Municipal Budget, the School Site and Reserves. Johnny Carline To evaluate this suggestion, costs. In this writer’s opinion, one should consider what the it sacrifi ced usefulness for The Metchosin Finance Com- purpose of a reserve is. Reserves exactitude. This may have been mittee has held two meetings are built up and then used when acceptable for ‘fi nancial state- in the process of preparing the expenditures come along which ments’, though even there its 2020 municipal budget. It is cannot or should not be accom- usefulness is questionable, and early days and so there is no modated in the regular operating it had expensive consequences. reason to get too excited about budget without incurring an But it appears that the annual numbers just now. In fact, unacceptable increase in prop- ‘depreciation’ of an asset, rather Council is to be congratulated erty taxes for that year. Regular than annualized anticipated on starting the process so early contributions to reserves are replacement costs, has entered and so openly. It gives lots of generally good practice. into the process of planning time for sober consideration However, in 2019, we seem capital asset replacement funds and public input. This article, to have a dilemma. Investing and become an accounting therefore, focusses on just one in the school is surely sound expectation for municipal bud- interesting item: the inclusion economic strategy, given the gets. In the Metchosin budget of interest capital repayment consequences suggested above discussion, for example, the and depreciation in the budget of deferring such investments. ‘depreciation’ line ($32,500 for for the school site. Making the regular contribu- the school) was referred to as Councillor Epp pointed out tion to the reserves would a ‘calculation’, without discus- that to make the school build- reinforce Metchosin’s ability sion, as if it were a mathemati- ing work, either as a source to withstand excessive tax cal commandment. of rental income or as usable increases when possible large Whether the PSAB calcula- community space, or most expenditures come along in the tion is the wrong one to use is probably both, will take some future. But, at this point, mak- less important here than the investment. For the purpose ing both the capital investment notion that any such calculation of this article, this statement is and the contribution to reserves is a rigid requirement. Just like taken to be self evidently true, would likely result in an exces- Interest/Capital replacement, without examining just what sively large tax increase. depreciation needs to be con- the nature or extent of those What is the right strategy? sidered in the context of a com- needed improvements are. The answer surely lies in the fact prehensive fi nancial strategy Notwithstanding the fact that that making the contribution to which anticipates future capital the initial view of the revenue reserves would ease the increase expenditures and smooths out potential of the school was in some future potentially exces- any ‘lumpy’ increases in prop- wildly optimistic, failing to sive tax increase by imposing an erty taxes increasing or decreas- make the investments needed excessive tax increase now. There ing contributions to reserves to bring the building ‘up to is surely no logic in that. Defer- (‘depreciation’) appropriately. scratch’ (e.g. installing decent ring that contribution, if neces- Even in large, well re- washrooms) risks underutiliz- sary, seems to make more sense. sourced, sophisticated mu- ing the asset, underperforming The same argument applies nicipalities, such strategies are in whatever revenue potential with, perhaps, even more force sketchy at best. But once you the school has, and risking the to ‘depreciation’. It would stare down the tyranny of rigid asset deteriorating further.. take too long to explain all the accounting formulae, common Given the initial budget history and reasoning behind sense will tell you that you can estimates, Councillors are the inclusion of depreciation make critical capital invest- understandably anxious to in budgets. Suffi ce it to say ments when they need to be fi nd ‘room’ in the budget to that, about a decade ago, the made and adjust (not abandon) allow for these investments to Public Sector Accounting Board a schedule of replenishing be made. In response, some (PSAB) correctly decided that capital replacement reserves residents suggested deferring the municipalities needed to to meet long term needs. That repayment of the interest/capi- better account for their tangible would release $75,000 for up- tal ($42,500 in the draft budget) assets. PSAB then came up grading the school, about half intended to replenish other with a system based on depre- what Councillor Epp suggests reserves used to purchase the ciated purchase/construction is needed. Doesn’t that seem to school. costs rather than replacement make sense? 18 Metchosin Muse • December 2019

Hours of Operation Drive & Dine Free Meals

Noon–4 pm Monday through Thursday Save these upcoming dates and join us for Note: SRC will be closed from December 20th, a free meal with friends! Request a drive to 2019 to Monday, January 5th, 2020. We wish you and from these events or RSVP by calling a very happy holiday season and best wishes for the 250-478-5150. coming new year. Monday, December 2, 5:30–7:00 pm Weekly Programs at the Hosted by St. Mary of the Incarnation, to mark the beginning of the Advent Season, Seniors’ Resource Centre join us for a potluck supper and get to know new people in the community. Following the Mondays 2–4:00 pm: Inter-Gen connects meal, traditional Lessons and Carols will be seniors and students* featured, with music by Rachel Mitten and Wednesdays 1–3:00 pm: Tea Time/Coff ee Jennifer Ashley. Bring a dish to share with a Chat – All welcome! dozen or so fi ne folk. Thursdays 2–4:00 pm: Geeks and Geezers Learning Lab* Monday, December 16, 5:30–7:00 pm Join us at Gordon United Church in Langford, *Please call to schedule an appointment with a group of wonderful volunteers who host a delicious, homecooked meal at their Metchosin Christmas monthly Christmas Community Supper. Request a drive to and from these meals or RSVP Farmers’ Market: December 1 by calling 250-478-5150.

Barb Sawatsky full-season and 17 drop-ins who sell on Sunday morn- Sunday, December 1 ings from Mother’s Day in Ho-Ho-Holiday Open Metchosin Represented 11:00 am–2:00 pm May until the end of October. Metchosin Public Square On Sunday, December 1 this House and Storytime at Provincial Summit on Beside the Pioneer Museum dedicated group of farmers, 4430 Happy Valley Road gardeners and craftsfolk will, To celebrate the season Our 4th Annual Holiday Aging once again, set up in the Public Open House will take place on Saturday, “The number of people who Square beside the Pioneer Mu- December 7, 2019. Drop by the Seniors’ Dawn Boshcoff represented the Metchosin come to the Metchosin Farm- seum from 11:00 am–2:00 pm Resource Centre between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm Seniors’ Association at the Provincial Summit ers’ Market is growing every selling jams, winter vegetables, for some cheer. All ages are welcome to join our on Aging, held in Vancouver over two days, year.” said Jacqui Anderson, sewing, jewellery, baking, featured #2019Storytellers for a special seasonal early in November. “Transportation remained a who has been the Metchosin swags and other crafts suit- storytime, free refreshments, sweets and swag- key area of concern,” said Boshcoff . The two- Farmers’ Market’s President able for Christmas gift giving. making to kick off the holiday season. day conference involved panel discussions, for the past fi ve years. “In fact, Molly’s Fish & Chips will be on keynotes, working round tables and interactive 2019 was one of the best years site and don’t forget to stop by group activities. we’ve had.” Jacqui believes Old Barn Books, the best little Record Flu Shots at the that advertising has really paid book store on the Island. off and that and the quality of Jacqui says, “The Christmas Firehall Raffle Draw Winner Will excellent musicians who have Market is a ‘thank you’ to the performed in the Ron Jenkins vendors who are very commit- In cooperation with IDA Latoria Pharmacy and Enjoy a Gourmet Dinner bandshell has been another ted to coming every Sunday, the Metchosin Fire Department, MSA hosted draw. rain or shine during our mar- our most successful Flu Clinic yet, in early for Eight The Metchosin Farmers’ ket season.” Please come down November. In total, 390 people were vaccinated, Market is a non-profi t soci- and support them at their fi nal with a breakdown of ages as follows: Under 5 On Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2019 MSA Vice-Chair ety and has 38 members: 21 market of 2019. years - 23 (6%), 5-19 years - 32 (8%), 20-64 - 136 Helen Fletcher, drew the winning ticket for a (35%), 65+ - 199 (51%). The clinic was so popular Gourmet Dinner for Eight, belonging to win- that the doors had to close earlier than expected ner Shaun Eden from neighbouring Colwood. because there were no more vaccines. Shaun purchased his ticket at the Metchosin Special thanks to Mohamed Zeid, pharmacist Farmers’ Market. He will be inviting seven at IDA Latoria Pharmacy, nurses Jeanette guests to enjoy an amazing gourmet meal McMillan and Rosemary Invik, Fire Chief prepared by Metchosin foodies and local Stephanie Dunlop and staff who hosted the home-chefs. clinic at the Fire Hall, and Metchosin Seniors’ Huge thanks to everyone who purchased a Association volunteers Carol Carman, Deirdre raffl e ticket to support this annual fundraiser Chettleburgh, Diana Clare, Helen Fletcher, and congratulations to MSA Board Volunteers Sandy Jenkins, Suzanne Lee, and Sona who collectively sold all 220 tickets in 2019. Mapstone who managed the fl ow of people. Thanks to all who came for a shot in the arm to help keep themselves and Metchosin healthy. Seniors’ Resource Centre at Metchosin Arts & Cultural Centre We’re now located on the main fl oor at 4495 Happy Valley Road. Our new space has a fully accessible entrance ramp and wheelie-friendly washrooms. Please park in the centre courtyard and use the corner entrance with double-ramp and automatic doors. Join the Metchosin Seniors’ Association – MSA

A lifetime membership entitles you to all of the programs, support and services off ered at SRC for only $20 per person. Please drop-by to fi ll out a membership form or to complete a vol- Mohamed Zeid, pharmacist at IDA Latoria Pharmacy unteer application. Please Note: All SRC volun- administers the fl u shot at the Firehall Photo by Deirdre Chettleburgh teers complete Vulnerable Sector Screening with the RCMP. December 2019 • Metchosin Muse 19

Fire Department Call-Outs OCTOBER 2019 Give the Gift of Music Fire Chief Stephanie Dunlop High Quality Music Lessons with Professional Instructors ••• Check out Metchosin Fire on Facebook or follow me on Twitter @ ChiefDunlop In a Fun Environment Locally Owned, Family Business A number of people requested that we once Oct 19 William Head Road – Assistance – GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE again publish the Fire Department Call-Out Public Works. data. So here they are. Derrien Place – Medical. Oct 20 – MVI. www.westshoremusicacademy.ca Oct 2 Rocky Point Road – Medical. Oct 21 Sutiacum Road – Medical. 134-1039 Langford Pkwy Arden Road – Medical. (250) 532 - 0228 Oct 25 Kangaroo Road – Hydro – Tree on [email protected] Oct 3 Sooke Road – MVI. Lines. Taylor Road – Assistance – General Spellman Place – Assistance – General Public Public. Oct 4 Meridale Road –Open Burn – General. Albert Head Road – Alarm bells Oct 5 Martock Road – SFRes. – Commercial. Oct 6 Grant Road – SFRes. Parry Cross Road – Alarm bells Winter Wanderings Worthington Way – Medical. – Commercial. Oct 8 East Sooke – Medical. East Sooke – Open Burn – General. OPEN STUDIO Rocky Point Road – MVI. Oct 26 Unspecifi ed – Assistance – Misc. Complaint. Saturday, December 7, 2019 Oct 11 Rocky Point Road – Medical. Oct 27 Meridale Road – Open Burn William Head Road – Medical. – General. 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Kangaroo Road Oct 12 – Medical. Grant Road – SFRes.– Mobile Home/ Happy Valley Road – Open Burn Trailer. – General. Oct 28 Sooke Road – SFComm – Smoke/ More Art. More Soap. More Local Gifts! Oct 15 Rocky Point Road – Medical. Smell in Structure. Local Artists. Fine art. Incredible Soaps. Seaspray Drive – Medical. Oct 30 Happy Valley Road – SFRes Oct 16 Charles Road – Medical. – Chimney. Hand-made one-of-a-kind gifts, cards, and surprises. Oct 17 East Sooke – Medical. Pedder Bay Drive – Assistance – Refreshments. Free Gift Wrapping. Swanwick Road – Alarm Bells General Public. All welcome! – Residential. Malloch Road – Open Burn – General. Sooke Road – MVI. 4731 Lisandra Road. T. 250-884-2199 Oct 18 Sutiacum Road – Alarm Bells MVI: Motor Vehicle Incident. studio h canada little avalon’s – Residential. SFComm: Structure Fire Commercial Soapistry visual art & multimedia SFRes: Structure Fire Residential.

Conservation Service Call-Outs RCMP Call-Outs OCTOBER 2019 OCTOBER 2019 Conservation Officer Service, Environment Protection & Sustainability Constable Nancy Saggar, Media Relations Offi cer, West Shore RCMP / GRC de West Shore

Oct 02 Sooke Road near Kangaroo – Traffi c Oct 13 Sooke Road – Report of a possible Oct 04 Barrow Road – Black bear killed nine hens and a complaint: report of possible impaired impaired driver swerving, heading rooster belonging to neighbour the previous night driver. Police attended and patrolled towards Sooke. West Shore RCMP and is still hanging around. the area but vehicle was not located. unable to catch up to this vehicle but Barrow Road – Caller reports black bear is really La Bonne Road – Report of marijuana notifi ed Sooke RCMP who were able to intercept this car. The driver was upsetting neighbours. One has come up her drive- grow operation. Police investigated way and can get into her steel garbage can. and determined that the grow was determined to be sober. legal within the new legislation. Oct 17 Sooke Road near Kangaroo Road – Oct 08 William Head Road – Two black bears hang- Oct 03 Sooke Road (near 4000 block) – A Single vehicle collision. Driver lost ing around property on and off for the last week. Toyota RAV 4 went off the road and control of truck which went off the Smaller bear is currently on property and can into the ditch. Driver lost control of the road and hit the ditch. Driver was not be scared off . It keeps climbing tree. Orchard vehicle after experiencing medical issues. determined to be sober. nearby. Near Metchosin Country Store – Oct 18 Kangaroo Road and Rocky Point Rocky Point Road – Caller reports a young deer Report of a green van with two male Road – Vehicle check stop; drivers is injured and has lain in same position all night; occupants looking suspicious; were stopped and checked for proper appears alert but unable to get up. Has been seen looking into vehicles and trying licencing and sobriety. One driver wrapped in a blanket. car doors. The report was made over determined to be impaired by alcohol. Oct 11 William Head Road – Caller reports a black bear a week after the incident and Police Vehicle was towed and driver given using the RV park as a thoroughfare. Requests a were unable to locate the van. 3-day suspension based on the result trap be placed. of the roadside breath test. Rocky Point Road near Galloping Oct 12 Metchosin Road – Very large black bear rambling Oct 24 Sooke Road (3700 Block) – Report Goose Trail – Report of theft from towards Brotherston, near Boys and Girls Club parked vehicle. Owner reported that of erratic driver swerving. Police the back window was smashed out attended and conducted patrols. The Metchosin Road – Caller reports he is using and purse was stolen. vehicle was not located. binoculars to watch a black bear chasing domestic sheep near Boys and Girls Club. Oct 05 Sooke Road (4200 block) – Report Oct 27 Pearson College Drive – Complaint of an impaired driver; truck was that older blue long box truck doing Oct 25 Witty Beach Road – Caller reports a black bear is swerving in the lane. Police located ongoing burnouts. Complainant could in his front yard picking blackberries. Bear has a the vehicle and determined the driver not provide licence plate and police history of getting into garbage and compost and was sober. unable to locate the truck. caller has moved both inside. Oct 07 La Bonne Road – Theft from vehicle Oct 28 Sooke Road – Report of a possible For more information on the BC Bear Smart left unlocked, parked at residence. impaired driver swerving, heading program, go to: towards Sooke. West Shore RCMP Electronics were stolen from the https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/ vehicle. No suspects or witnesses. unable to catch up to this vehicle but Sooke RCMP intercepted the car environment/plants-animals-ecosystems/wild- Oct 08 Rocky Point Road and Arden Road and spoke with the driver, who was life/human-wildlife-confl ict/staying-safe-around- – Report of a two vehicle collision; determined to be sober. wildlife/bears/bear-smart?keyword= one vehicle was turning left and Conservation&keyword=Service collided with the second vehicle in the Oct 29 Metchosin Road (4000 block) – Report intersection. Three passengers were of several vehicles being broken into. taken to hospital with minor injuries. Items stolen from vehicles. Vehicles parked overnight at a residence. Police Oct 09 Barrow Road and La Bonne Road attended and gathered some items to – Report of a single vehicle in the be fi ngerprinted. No prints of suspects ditch. Driver had left the scene. Police identifi ed and suspect is unknown. followed up and located the driver Tell them who stated had swerved to miss a deer Happy Valley Road near Metchosin on the roadway. Road – Report of vehicle parked at charging station broken into overnight. you saw it Oct 12 Sooke Road (3900 block) – Report of Items taken from inside the vehicle. No a single vehicle colliding with black suspects or witnesses. in the Muse! bear. Driver was unharmed, the bear succumbed to its injuries. 20 Metchosin Muse • December 2019 Donations to Keep the Muse Afloat Keep Rolling In Johnny Carline and Allen Muse team, we have to In addition to the Charlene and Ryan Bur- and Keith Hanna, Betty and Christine Anglin, Jones say how grateful we are donors listed in our last les, Nadene and Johnny Ann and Larry Hildreth, Tom and Phyllis Moore, for this support and how edition, the following Carline, Gordon and Thomas Homer-Dixon, David and Nancy Na- Donations to keep touched we are by the have donated generously Mary Anne Christie, Curtis and Teresita gorsen, Tina Neff, Debbie our little community many messages that have to the cause. Jakubowski, Eliza- Norman, Heather Pagee- newspaper from going accompanied these dona- beth Jatkowski, Buchana, Stefani Paine, broke continue to ar- tions. We still Audrey Jenkins, Ivan Parsons, Veronica rive, including now a have to solve Dianne Jones, Col- Pemberton-Billing, John number of donations for our mailing leen and Stephen and Patricia Pesando, Jill $500. One local business- cost problem Kirkham, Amy and Michael Peterson, person, Heather Pagee- to become Kua, Nancy Janice Poulin, June Roots, Buchanan, decided to financially Letkeman, Joanne and Peter Seguin, donate a percentage of sustainable, but Brian Monica and Kenneth Marcia Siemens, Lynn the proceeds of her shirt this is giving us Crombleholme, Rachel Mar, Patrick and Jane and Lauri Stevens, Max sales – what a cool and some vital breath- Joan and Dan Axford, De Mejia, Michael and Matthews, Joan and and Judith Van Manen, thoughtful gesture! As ing space and perhaps Paul Beique, Cheryl and Bonnie Farris, Irene Clifford Mendum, Mary Sharon Williams. co-editors, and on behalf capital to explore alterna- Dragan Bistric, Richard Fizzell, Richard and and Ted Mills, Rodney of the entire Metchosin tive solutions. and Dorothy Boisvert, Elizabeth Gaunt, Cheryl Mitchell, Jochen Moehr Metchosin Directory

Metchosin Fire Department: Come in and experience our Emergency Calls 250-478-1307 Police (Non-Emergency): quaint country atmosphere and • Report a fire 250-474-2264 enjoy our hearty portions of • Report a crime Military Police Non-Emergency • Report an accident (250) 363-4032 great home-cooked foods! • Save a life District Office (office hours): • Imminent safety OPEN: Mon.–Fri. 10am–9 pm, Sat. & Sun. 8am–9 pm 911 250-474-3167 AIR CADETS METCHOSIN EQUESTRIAN SOCIETY SEA CADETS 250-474-2333 250-590-3690 250-478-2374 250-478-7813 Corner of Happy Valley and Metchosin Roads www.848royalroadsaircadets.com [email protected] TOPS: Take Off Pounds Sensibly [email protected] FB 848aircadets www.mesmetchosin.com Shelby Quissy ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF BC METCHOSIN FOUNDATION 250-474-3812 250-382-2052 [email protected] SWANWICK CENTRE www.alzheimerbc.org http://metchosinfoundation.ca A centre for spiritual inquiry MY-CHOSEN PIZZA ASSOCIATION FOR THE PROTECTION METCHOSIN GARDEN CLUB 250-744-3354 Pickup after noon, delivery after 4pm OF RURAL METCHOSIN (APRM) 250-360-7557 [email protected] 250-881-8280 METCHOSIN HALL SOCIETY www.swanwickcentre.ca OPEN: 11am–9pm seven days a week FB Metchosin APRM 250-478-6424 WEST SHORE ARTS COUNCIL BADMINTON http://metchosinhall.com/ 250-478-2286 Phone 250-474-5576 Women’s 250-478-9648 METCHOSIN HIKING CLUB [email protected] BILSTON WATERSHED HABITAT 250-478-4778 www.westshorearts.org PROTECTION ASSOCIATION METCHOSIN INVASIVE SPECIES WEST SHORE COMMUNITY 250-478-2387 COOPERATIVE (MISC) CONCERT BAND [email protected] [email protected] 250-474-3999 www.bilstoncreek.org [email protected] Important Dates and Events METCHOSIN MUSEUM SOCIETY www.westshoreband.org CRD PARKS Pioneer Museum, 250-382-1989 250-478-3344 School Museum, 250-478-0765 WEST SHORE PARKS AND [email protected] RECREATION Nov 30 Community Connector Meeting...... p. 5 www.crd.bc.ca/parks METCHOSIN PONY CLUB 250-478-8384 250-727-3595 Dec 1 Pearson Concert ...... p. 17 FREE RANGE SINGERS www.westshorerecreation.ca Dec 1 Metchosin Christmas Market...... p. 18 250-478-3319 METCHOSIN PRESCHOOL WESTSHORE RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB FB MetchosinFreeRangeSingers 250-478-9241 [email protected] Dec 10 Rough Voice Carol sing-along...... p. 5 [email protected] westshorerfc.com GIRL GUIDES OF CANADA www.metchosinpreschool.com Dec 13 Early Deadline for Muse Submissions (Metchosin and Colwood) ...... p. 3 & 7 250-478-5484 METCHOSIN PRODUCERS’ ASSOCIATION [email protected] [email protected] FAITHS Dec 24 Christmas Eve FB Metchosin Farmers’ Market BAHA’I FAITH LA LECHE LEAGUE CANADA 250-514-1757 Dec 25 Christmas Day 250-727-4384 METCHOSIN SEARCH & RESCUE [email protected] GORDON UNITED CHURCH Dec 26 Boxing Day METCHOSIN 4-H CLUB http://www.metchosinsar.ca 250-478-6632 [email protected] www.gordonunitedchurch.ca Dec 31 New Years Eve www.metchosin4h.com METCHOSIN SENIORS’ INFORMATION & RESOURCE CENTRE/METCHOSIN HOLY TRINITY REFORMED EPISCOPAL For Council meetings, please see p. 3. For ongoing events at the METCHOSIN ARTS AND CULTURAL SENIORS’ ASSOCIATION CHURCH CENTRE ASSOCIATION (MACCA) Metchosin Community House, please see p. 14. 250-478-5150, [email protected] 250-727-3722 [email protected] www.metchosinseniors.ca For Metchosin Seniors’ Resource Centre events, please see p. 18. www.metchosinartcentre.ca OPEN GATE CHURCH MT. MATHESON CONSERVATION Anglican Network METCHOSIN BIODIVERSITY PROJECT SOCIETY 250-590-6736 CRD Nature Events take place throughout the year in www.metchosinbiodiversity.com 250-642-0238 www.opengatechurch.ca Metchosin. For details, go to crd.bc.ca/parks-events. METCHOSIN COMMUNITY HOUSE NEIGHBOURHOOD EMERGENCY ST MARYS’ METCHOSIN 250-478-5155 PREPAREDNESS PROGRAM Anglican Church of Canada Clip and save this listing! [email protected] (POD Leaders) 250-474-4119 www.metchosincommunityhouse.com Kathleen Sutherland 250-474-3966 stmarysmetchosin.ca METCHOSIN COUNCIL [email protected] WESTSIDE BIBLE CHURCH 250-474-3167 PACIFIC CENTRE FAMILY SERVICES 250-478-8066 [email protected] ASSOCIATION www.westsidefamily.org www.district.metchosin.bc.ca/meetings 345 Wale Road, Colwood WESTSONG COMMUNITY CHURCH OF METCHOSIN CRICKET CLUB 250-886-2481 THE SALVATION ARMY 250-474-4601 www.pacificcentrefamilyservices.org 250-474-5967 www.victoriacricket.com ROUGH VOICE SINGERS www.westsong.ca Visit the Muse website! FB MetchosinCricketClub September to April METCHOSIN EMERGENCY 250-478-0553 • Current issue PREPAREDNESS ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION Branch 91, 250-478-1307, ham operators call in on Station Rd, Langford Ladies Auxiliary • Back issues • Extras 146.550. POD members can call FRS 250-478-5484 (Family Radio Service) radios: Channel 1 with “0” privacy tone SCOUTS CANADA • Advertising rates • Contacts [email protected]

www.metchosinmuse.ca The above listing is a directory of organizations only. Please submit changes by email to metchosinmuse@gmail. com. Individuals, groups and organizations are invited to submit details on upcoming events, to be included under “Events” on this page, or possibly as a separate article. Deadline for submission is the 15th of the month preceding the issue date.

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