Gulf Islands’ Attractions...long regatta of ‘Racing In Plumper Sound’ is scheduled for August 15–20, 2004. Patterned after the hugely-successful ‘Whidbey Island Race Week,’

Volume 16 Number 2 Your Coastal Community Newspaper Feb 12–Feb 25, 2004

Every Second Thursday & Online ‘24/7’ at islandtides.comCanadian Publications Mail Product

Sales Agreement Nº 40020421

Gulf Islands’

Tide tables 2Black gold 2War economy 2Saturna notes 3Letters 4What’s on? 5Mining in parks 6Bulletin board 7

Attractions &Accommodation

Vancouver Island & The Gulf Islands, Page 8

Catch up on old issues or download popular articles. Visit our archives:www.islandtides.com

Photo :Rick Tipple Saint Christophers on Saturna. The Anglican Parish of Pender and Saturna Islands is in the process of selecting a new rector. The formerrector, now The Venerable Bruce Bryant-Scott, has become an archdeacon—his new position is as executive officer for the diocese.

Photo: Christa Grace-WarrickGreen Party nominees Ken Rouleau, Phil Spidle, and Andrew Lewis at a ‘meet thenominees meeting’ on Pender Island on February 5.

Green PartycandidateelectedThe Green Party of Canada is thesecond major political party in Saanich-Gulf Islands riding to select itscandidate for the expected April federalelection. The Green Party, which has astrong presence in the riding,particularly on Salt Spring Island andon the Southern Gulf Islands, selectedAndrew Lewis to represent it. Threemen had been nominated, Ken Rouleauand Lewis from Salt Spring and PhilSpilde from Saanich, to challengeincumbent former Reformer GaryLunn.

After what organizer BrianFinnemore describes as a stirring andunusual contest Andrew Lewis, alandscape designer and father of two,won the race on February 7, followingthree all-candidates meetings.

The contest was unusual, he said, inthat the nominees were rich in theirpraise of each other. Prior to the race,they met and vowed that they would allwork together no matter who won. Thethree were the subjects of an article inthe February 5 Globe & Mail.

Lewis describes himself as a father,husband, self-employed businessperson, homeowner and dedicatedcommunity activist. Educated inEngland with a degree in marinebiology, he also recently graduatedfrom UVic with a diploma in ecology.His final project for the diplomainvolved working with Tsawout andTsartlip Indian bands to restore HagenCreek in Saanich. Other communityactivities include work with theAgricultural Advisory Panel for the

Plumper Sound site ofweek-long regattaEric W. ManchesterAn armada in August will bring windy wet fun andardent competition to Navy Channel and PlumperSound, waters bounded by Mayne, Saturna and thePender Islands. The flotilla's estimated 600 sailors,and countless shoreside supporters will create a buzzof excitement on the Penders when they occupy PortBrowning and the adjacent lands for one week.

Officially known as RIPS Canadian Race Week,what is planned to be the first—and annual—weeklong regatta of ‘Racing In Plumper Sound’ isscheduled for August 15–20, 2004. Patterned afterthe hugely-successful ‘Whidbey Island Race Week,’and open to all manner of sailboats, the eventcomprises of daily racing, prizes, barbecues andshoreside entertainment. Sidney North Saanich YachtClub is the yacht club of record. Port BrowningMarina on North Pender Island is the host facility.

‘This regatta is in response to a demand for a

BC Green Party Leader Adriane Carr expectsthe BC Liberals to take a new comprehensivestudy of toxic chemicals found in farmedsalmon seriously. The study is reported on inthe January 9, 2004 edition of Sciencemagazine. ‘The Liberals said they'd manageresources based on science. The science is in onfish farms, and it points to phasing fish farmsout,’ says Carr.

‘The Science study concludes that the levelof carcinogens in farmed fish pose such a healthhazard that people should consume farmedsalmon on average once a month or less.Consumers and markets are bound to beaffected. I urge the BC Liberals to recognize thecancer-causing risks of eating farmed salmon,and the economic riskiness of this industry tocoastal communities, and start phasing out fishfarms now,’ says Carr.

The scientific evidence confirms the bio-accumulation in farmed fish of dangerouschemicals such as PCBs, dioxins and otherorgano-chlorine contaminants detrimental topeoples' health. ‘It is virtually impossible toensure that the pellets fed to the penned fishare not laden with these bad chemicals,’ saysCarr. The Science study reaffirms our party’sposition that it’s ecologically unsustainable and

unhealthy to ‘farm’ carnivorous fish,’ says Carr.The BC Green Party wants the BC Liberals

to establish a moratorium on salmon farmexpansion on BC’s coast and to develop a soundtransition strategy for affected communities tophase out current salmon farms and shift toprotecting wild salmon habitat and naturallyenhancing wild salmon stocks.

Carr is also urging the BC Liberals to enact alaw in this spring’s Legislative Sessionrequiring all salmon exported, sold in storesand served in restaurants be labeled as either‘Farmed’ or ‘Wild’ with place of originidentified. Carr also insists that labels warningpeople to limit consumption because of healthrisks be prominently placed on farmed fishpackaging.

‘People are increasingly concerned aboutthe healthfulness of the food they eat. Theyhave the right to know the source of the salmonthey buy so that they can make wise andhealthy consumer choices,’ Carr concludes.

Carr, who currently eats wild BC salmon atleast twice a month, was happy to hear thescientists conclude that it’s still healthful to eatwild salmon. ✐

Heed health warning on farmedsalmon, says Carr

REGATTA, please turn to page 3 LEWIS, please turn to page 6

Norske calls time out to talkPeter D. CarterNorskeCanada Crofton Division deserves to becommended on voluntarily extending thepublic consultation period for its proposedalternative fuels test at the Crofton mill. Thecompany’s position to not proceed with the fueltests until most of the community is satisfiedand its statement that the project will notproceed if there is a danger to the community,is a unique response to public criticism.

The Crofton Airshed Citizens Group(CACG) opposed the fuel test, saying themonitoring planned was far from sufficient forhealth safety. The group opposed the idea of atrade-off of pollutants. They said that the millbased its assurance of safety on the results from

other mills (Port Alberni Powell River and ElkFalls) but the tests at these mills were notreliable for predicting pollution control inpermanent operation and that the Crofton millhas inferior technology. CACG claimed that thedry electrostatic precipitator at Crofton mightnot capture the fine particulate emissions. Thegroup also said that the mill did not have safeplans for the containment and disposal ofpotentially toxic ash captured from the furnaceemissions.

CACG also wants an general examination ofthe mill’s operation. To a large extent this

NORSKE, please turn to page 7

Page 2, ISLAND TIDES, Feb 12, 2004

Tides Tables Courtesy of

Island Marine ConstructionFloats • Ramps • Moorings • Pile Driving

PPhh:: 225500--553377--99771100 FFaaxx:: 553377--11772255www.islandmarine.ca

AT FULFORD HARBOUR

FEBRUARYDay Time Ht./ft. Ht./m. Day Time Ht./ft. Ht./m.

10TUMA

11WEME

12THJE

13FRVE

14SASA

15SUDI

16MOLU

17TUMA

00500805143019400125082515152120

0205085016052320

025009101700

0135035509351755

0300054510101855

0355075511051950

0435092012252045

3.611.26.28.54.9

11.24.98.2

6.211.23.98.5

7.910.83.0

9.29.2

10.82.3

10.29.8

10.51.6

10.810.210.51.3

11.29.810.51.0

11.59.5

10.21.0

11.58.910.21.3

11.28.29.82.0

11.27.59.52.6

11.26.69.2

3.611.25.98.9

4.910.85.28.5

6.210.54.68.5

1.13.41.92.61.53.41.52.5

1.93.41.22.6

2.43.30.9

2.82.83.30.7

3.13.03.20.5

3.33.13.20.4

3.43.03.20.3

18WEME

19 THJE

20FRVE

21SASA

22SUDI

23MOLU

24TUMA

25WEME

05101005133521350545104514452220

0615112515502300

0640121016552340

070012551800

0015072513401910

00500745142020450130080015052155

3.52.93.10.33.52.73.10.4

3.42.53.00.6

3.42.32.90.8

3.42.02.8

1.13.41.82.7

1.53.31.62.6

1.93.21.42.6

A2 - 9769 Fifth Street, SidneyDoug Guedes • 1-866-656-9886 • (656-9886)

7178 W. Saanich Rd, Brentwood BayDoug Strong • 1-877-655-1141 • (652-1141)

www.seafirstinsurance.com

Call Us Toll Free for Quotes on• Homeowners • Farm

• Commercial • Bed & Breakfasts

autoplan

OCEANFRONT LOTSOCEANFRONT LOTSPENDER ISLAND

Brian Harris - Dave Cochlan604-664-7630

www.landquest.com

IS YOUR

WELL WATERSAFE TO DRINK?

Contamination can occurwithout changes in colour ortaste. Be safe, test annually.

fax: 250-656-0443 Website: www.mblabs.comEmail: [email protected]

2062 Unit 4 Henry Ave. West, Sidney, B.C. V8L 5Y1

250-656-1334

Complete Rainwater Harvesting SystemsRoof to Tap Design

• Polypropylene-lined Steel Cisterns—4,000–30,000 gallons

• Roof Washers • Gravity Filters

Bob Burgess 250-246-2155www.rainwaterconnection.com

DESIGN • SALES • INSTALLATION

The ecological consequences of oil spills are longer-term andbroader-scale than previously thought, say researchers studyingthe effects of one of the most high-profile oil spills in recenttimes—the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill in Prince William Sound,Alaska.

A paper co-authored by SFU biology research associateDaniel Esler and published recently in the journal Science showsthat the environmental impact went far beyond the hundreds ofthousands of sea birds, marine animals and organisms killed inthe first days and months following the spill. Oil continued tocontaminate habitats and food chains for over a decade.

Prior to the Exxon Valdez, the impact of oil spills wasassumed by researchers to be related to their immediate andvisible effects. Esler says the unexpected persistence of toxicsubsurface oil that became trapped among sand and rocks led tochronic exposure of wildlife.

The Exxon Valdez disaster struck a particularly pristineenvironment with a highly visible wildlife community. Morethan 42 million litres of crude oil contaminated some 2,000kilometers of shoreline. ‘People still remember the oily ducksand otters, those graphic images that showed the devastation inthe days and weeks after the spill,’ says Esler, who was workingas a researcher for the US Geological Survey in Anchorage at the

time of the disaster. Esler remained in the region for the nextdozen years, eventually becoming part of a massive researchproject to track the spill’s long-term fallout.

With colleagues from the US and Canada, including leadauthor Charles H. Peterson from the University of NorthCarolina, he conducted extensive field research well into 2003.Researchers say chronic, delayed and indirect long-termimpacts must be considered when evaluating consequences oranalyzing risks associated with oil pollution or other forms ofenvironmental contamination.

In Prince William Sound, substantial amounts of oilremained in subsurface reservoirs under coarse, intertidalsediments, protected from weather and retaining their toxicity,becoming ‘an enduring route of entry into many food chains’ foryears.

Esler says such consequences highlight the need toreconsider the approach to ecological risk assessment. Such datacould be useful when considering oil and gas development onthe coast of BC, he suggests. ‘If there is a silver lining, it’s the factthat we are able learn about the large-scale disastrous effects andbetter consider how to approach such consequences as theyarise,’ notes Esler.✐

Black Gold—a series about oilOil spill damage far greater than earlier thought

War Economy—Dividing the Spoils ~ Peter D. Carter

President Bush and Colin Powell’s promises that Iraq’s oilbelongs to the people of Iraq now seems to be cynicalrhetoric used to shore up the support for last April’s war.

Iraq’s resources were always to be dealt with according to thetenet of war—‘To the victor go the spoils.’

US corporations are winning from the war in Iraq, with UStaxpayers footing the bill. Under the administration of DefenseSecretary Rumsfeld, large parts of the US military wereprivatized. For example, Haliburton’s Kellogg, Brown & Root(KBR) unit has a contract, renewable for up to 10 years, with theUS Army under the Logistics Civil Augmentation Program(LCAP). The contract requires KBR to deploy within 72 hours ofa request, setting up anything, from mess halls to base camps,for US forces worldwide. So far, Haliburton has collected about$3.8 billion under this LCAP contract, said a spokeswoman forthe Army office that administers the program. And, of course,production of US hi-tech weapons are also the business of UScorporations.

In the aftermath of war, the US Congress approved $87billion dollars for reconstructing Iraq last November. This $87billion is, of course, in addition to $62.4 billion for the April warthat devastated Iraq’s infrastructure—the major reason for thishuge repair bill. How much of this $87 billion will end up in thecoffers of US corporations benefiting from the Iraq takeover?The British Guardian newspaper says it has been estimated that$30 billion of the November’s $87 billion will also go to privateUS corporations doing military jobs.

Sweetheart DealsWhether this money will be fairly or well-spent is coming underscrutiny in the US. During debate on the administration’srequest for the money last October, Representative HenryWaxman, ranking member of the House Committee onGovernment Reform said, ‘There is growing evidence thatfavoured contractors like Haliburton and Bechtel are gettingsweetheart deals that are costing the taxpayers a bundle butdelivering scant results.’

No ValentinesIraq’s new oil minister, Ibrahim Bahr al-Uloum, handpicked bythe Bush administration, had announced that his main aim isprivatization of Iraqi oil. But local Iraqi businesses havecomplained that US officials have shut Iraqis out of the businessof reconstruction contracts by ‘red tape’ and impossibly shortnotice on bids, while US officials have allowed some companiesclosely associated with the former Saddam regime to winlucrative contracts.

Two members of the Iraqi Governing Council met inWashington with Waxman’s staff members, telling them, ‘thecosts to the US taxpayer of many reconstruction projects couldbe reduced by 90% if the contracts were awarded to local Iraqicompanies rather than to large government contractors likeHaliburton or Bechtel.’ Waxman cites as an example a war-idledcement plant in Northern Iraq. Major General David Petraeusannounced it would cost $15 million to reopen the plant if the jobwere assigned to Bechtel. But Iraqis restored production for$80,000.

Bechtel told Iraqi construction firms they could not bid oncontracts to reopen the Baghdad International Airport without

first securing three types of insurance unknown to the Iraqis.When an Iraqi contractor asked how to acquire this insurance, aBechtel executive replied, ‘Don’t worry, there will be Americaninsurance companies coming in to sell insurance.’

Additionally, a directive from Deputy Defence Secretary PaulWolfowitz, posted on a Pentagon website, limits bidders to firmsfrom the United States, Iraq, their coalition partners and othercountries which have sent troops to Iraq, barring companiesfrom US allies such as France, Germany and Canada frombidding on those contracts—worth $18.6 billion—because theirgovernments opposed the American-led invasion. (Wolfowitzwrote that the restrictions would encourage other countries tojoin the coalition in Iraq.)

Who Gets The Sweetmeats?No only do US corporations get the deals, they administer theprocess too. The US Agency for International Development Iraqawards contracts through the Bechtel Corporation. Armycontracts are awarded primarily through the HaliburtonCorporation as well as some Coalition Provisional Authoritycontracts under the administration of Paul Bremer.

Bremer wrote the $87 billion bill for restructuring Iraq. LastSeptember he announced new laws for Iraq that allow foreigninvestors to own 100% of any Iraqi assets and to remit profitsand royalties when they choose.

Not surprisingly then, Haliburton-KBR, the Houston-basedoil-field equipment corporation, secured a $2.3 billion no-bid,cost-plus contract for the ‘reconstruction of Iraq,’ the largestsingle contract awarded so far. The contract, originally believedto be for cleaning up oil spills and putting out well fires, alsogives Haliburton control over ‘operation of facilities’ and‘distribution of product.’ That means drilling and selling.

In a letter dated May 2 this year, Lt Gen Robert B. Flowers ofthe US Army Corps of Engineers, which is handling the Iraqicontracts, informed Representative Waxman that the Bushadministration was preparing a new contract to replace theoriginal $2.3 billion Haliburton deal. This new plan would be‘long term’ and involve more than extinguishing oil well fires andrepair of Iraqi oilfield equipment. It would also put Haliburtonin charge of ‘operation’ of Iraqi oilfields and ‘distribution’ of Iraqioil. The real value of this contract to Haliburton would be at least$7 billion. Waxman sent a reply to Flowers: ‘These newdisclosures are significant and seem at odds with theadministration’s repeated assurances that Iraqi oil belongs to theIraqi people’.

Haliburton has lost one of its contracts though—afterRepresentative Waxman and Representative John Dingell ofMichigan complained of gross overpayments. Waxman cited adeal in which Haliburton was paid $162.5 million by thePentagon in the six months since the war ended to truck 61million gallons of gasoline from Kuwait into Iraq, at about $2.65per gallon. The gas was then sold in Iraq for 4 cents to 15 centsper gallon. The difference was made up by US taxpayers.

Representative Waxman and Representative Dingell wrote ajoint letter to National Security Adviser Condoleeza Rice in hernew position as overseer of the Iraq occupation. ‘The USgovernment is paying nearly three times more for gasoline from

WAR, please turn to page 7

ISLAND TIDES, Feb 12, 2004, Page 3

1-800-447-32471-800-44-SEAiR

www.seairseaplanes.com6 Scheduled Flights Daily

Ganges Harbour • Montague Harbour • Port WGanges Harbour • Montague Harbour • Port Washington ashington LLyall Harbour • Tyall Harbour • Telegraph Harbour • Miners Bayelegraph Harbour • Miners Bay

SEAPLANES

FREQUENTFLYERDISCOUNTS

Leaves Vanc. Airport

7:30am11:30am3:30pm

Leaves Gulf Islands

8:00am12 Noon 4:00pm

water access oversteep

& rugged

PeterChristenson

250-629-8386

terrain

excellentreferences

FALL HOURS: Café: Weekdays 7:30am–8pm daily

Early Bird’ weekday special $4.95 (7:30–9am) Sat & Sun 8am–8pm

Pub: Open from noon dailyLiquor Store: Weekdays 4–9pm, Sat & Sun Noon–9pm

629-3493 • www.portbrowning.com • [email protected]

Watch for New Lower Prices at Port Browning Liquor Store !

PORT BROWNING MARINA, CAFE & PUB

Wet it is—quite befitting our Januaryand February winter. Rain, sleet,puddles, streams—water is the word.

The little creek that runs by our house is roaringalong and the waterfall into Lyall Harbor valleyis gorgeous to see, the great gush of watercreates its own wind as it shoots off the stone lipand crashes below into the cedar-fern-forestedbottom of Lyall Harbor. The woods are brilliantwith green mosses and all of the lichens andbracket fungus and gooey branch and trunktree decayers are in full form—very colorful.

Turning over rocks in the garden, we foundthree long-toed salamanders, curled and quietbetween the damp earth and the rocks.

Steamed nettles was on the home menutonight, first of the season! Spring is coming!

Robbie Burns NightRobbie Burns Night, sponsored by the SaturnaLions Club, was a festive occasion at the Hall.The Haggis was piped in, the toasts observedand the dinner excellent. This particular Haggisgained several new adherents to the Scottishdelicacy.

Many people take part in the Scottishoccasion (even some non-Scots) and thetraditional ceremonies make for a veryentertaining evening.

Barb’s Birthday CelebrationBarb Ropars celebrated her 50th birthday onJanuary 27, with a community potluck dinnerorganized by daughter Anika, husband Pat, andthree childhood friends—Linda, Carol andGloria. The poster advertising the event said‘All Welcome’ and we all came—theCommunity Hall was full of happy communitymembers eating, visiting and wishing Barbfond birthday congratulations!

Barb and her husband Pat came to SaturnaIsland in 1989. They had visited friendsextensively on Salt Spring, loved the area, andwhen they saw Saturna knew the Island waswhere they wanted to live. A friend sent aVancouver Sun paper to Wetaskiwin, Albertawhere the family lived. Our school district hadplaced an ad for a Special Needs educationperson, Barb applied and got the job working atSaturna School.

Barb is an energetic, lively person who likesworking with people and is very involved in thecommunity. Her special passion is workingwith children. Barb worked at Saturna Schoolfor four years, then six years at Mayne IslandSchool and then back at Saturna School for twoyears.

She has been on the ambulance team since1990 having regularly maintained her first aidticket. She works at Home Care, housecleaning, gardening, and is a regular alternate‘Post Office Lady’. For years she was vice-president of the Community Club and/or Hallmanager. She and Laura Coombs were the firsttwo women to belong to the Saturna Lion'sClub, when husband Pat Ropars was thepresident. Barb is now the secretary, and hasbeen, on and off, for years. Barb is the

Community Club representative on the Parksand Recreation Commission, she is a director ofthe Recreation Centre Society and a red hotslugger and first basewoman for the SaturnaOystercatchers Baseball Team.

Barb's family—her son Yannick, daughterAnika and husband Pat—are paramount inBarb's life. (Pat and Barb met at a dance whenthey were 18.) Barb's birthday celebration wasjust what she wanted for her 50th, ‘We need tocelebrate with all these people that are in ourlives!’ Saturna Community celebrates havingsuch a capable, lively, woman as Barb Ropars inits midst. Happy Birthday, Barb!

One Piano, Four HandsSaturna Arts and Concerts Society presented‘One Piano, Four Hands’ on January 27 at theCommunity Hall. Those present were delightedwith the offering.

Peter Tiefenbach and Robert Kortgaardhave been amazing concert and broadcastaudiences across the country for many seasons,both as individual artists and in collaborationwith some of Canada's finest musicians. Theypresented a large and varied repertoire at theperformance, playing on our own Hall piano.

People with such skills to delight andentertain musically and who are easy andrelaxed to talk to, make for a special event. Weare so fortunate to have this concert series thatpresents people so highly esteemed by fellowmusicians and by listeners.

Saturna Arts and Concerts’ nextpresentation is Saturday, February 21 at theCommunity Hall, the Todd Butler Band. TheTodd Butler Band plays and sings smoky blues,bluegrass picking, R&B, Reggae, Funk andmore! Todd Butler is part of the CBC's ‘MadlyOff in All Directions’ a Sunday afternoon CBCradio presentation. My guess is that theperformance will be pretty funny as well asmusically entertaining!

Women’s Club DinnerThe Saturna Women's Service Club ispreparing and serving Dinner on February 12,at the Community Hall. Tickets are available atthe stores.

Last year the Women's Club put on severalsuccessful dinners to bring the communitytogether in a friendly—and as usual onSaturna—well fed way!

20 Acres Donated toEnvironment Canada

John Fry and Ulla Ressner have donated nearly20 acres of their land on Section 8 (west end ofWarburton Pike Ridge) to the Ecological GiftsProgram under Environment Canada. Thisparcel of land is one of the first to gosuccessfully through this program. Ultimately,the land will become part of the Gulf IslandsNational Park Reserve.

Park Liaison Committee IssuesOn January 8, the Saturna Parks LiaisonCommittee met. Our two new park wardenswere introduced, Scott Giroux and assistantLeila Hanslitt. They gave a summary of theirduties and explained that they are peaceofficers and sometimes they will be off on otherpark projects.

Firechief Terry Danyliw reported that thefire department had received more calloutsthan in previous years and that none involvedParks Canada land. He expressed appreciationfor the Parks Canada Wild Land Fire Coursethat most of our volunteer firefighters havecompleted.

Geri Crooks reported that the number ofcallouts for the ambulance remained about thesame. She had concerns that the call rate mayincrease as we Islanders get older and thenumber of visitors increases. We lost threeyoung volunteers last summer. Dr. Brian DixonWarren was thanked for dealing with a numberof incidents. Unfortunately the time of ourcommunity nurse has been cut back.Ambulance services and Parks will enter intodiscussions over emergency care.

Parks will be sure to use signage and toindicate that we have an active on-going

Saturna Notes ~ Priscilla Ewbank

SATURNA, please turn to page 6

Photo: Rick TippleBarb and Pat Ropars digging in.

MLA Coell says Saanichton, Salt Springschool funding will go a long waySaanichton Elementary and Salt SpringElementary Schools are each receiving $3,000to help improve literacy and other areas ofstudent learning.

Saanich North and the Islands MLA MurrayCoell says the money comes as a result of thegood work being done at the two schools.

‘I commend both schools for what they'vedone educating and preparing our children forthe world,’ Coell said. ‘This moneyacknowledges their commitment to studentlearning and to help them do some moreprograms in the future.’

These schools are two of 2 BC schools toreceive awards from a total of $180,000 ingrants. The awards are funded by the province

and the new University of British ColumbiaSchool Leadership Centre. In addition torecognizing schools for improving studentachievement, the awards are also intended tofoster professional conversations aboutteaching and learning.

Saanichton Elementary (School District 63),plans to use the money to improve Grade 1Aboriginal student literacy through anintensive, multifaceted literacy program. SaltSpring Elementary (School District 64) willdevelop a comprehensive set of writing skillsthat combines performance standards, newteaching strategies and more parentalinvolvement.✐

Canadian race week by sailors who want tocondense their summer racing into one intenseweek, without the distance and expense oftravelling to the US’, according to organizerAlex Foley. ‘There’ll be windward-leeward,around-the-buoys racing with lots of sail-handling.’

Plumper Sound was selected as the venuefor the three-to-six mile courses due to itsrelatively consistent thermal breeze; closeproximity to shoreside facilities (30 minutesfrom the course); and its near lack ofcommercial shipping traffic. Port Browningoffers a sheltered harbour with food andbeverage services; large grounds for campingand outdoor activities; swimming pool; easy

access by ferry; and nearby golf course.Participants’ motherships can anchor close-byoff Hamilton Beach.

There will be separate divisions for one-design yachts, plus other PHRF-rated vesselsincluding multi-hulls—even a no-flying-sailsdivision if there’s enough demand. Daily prizeswill be awarded to each division’s top threefinishers. ‘We even have interest from Albertaand California fleets’, said Foley, ‘The regatta islimited to 100 boats, so sign-up early.’

Registration deadline is June 30. For moreinformation or to register: go to www.snsyc.ca,then click on ‘RIPS Race Week’ or email:[email protected]. ✐

REGATTA from page 1

Neptune’s winter demeanor is as cold

and hard as a fibreglass hull. Dark,angry seas can reach destructive

proportions. Cruel, frigid winds exfoliate facesand numb fingers. Hypothermia lurks, readyto join a careless crew. For die-hard sailorsthese conditions are irresistible.

Mariners seeking sanctuary at the end of arigorous day will find it at a place that hasevolved through being a hermit’s orchard, anAmerican tourist camp, a private island, and amarine park—with an eclectic connection toMarilyn Monroe.

Wallace Island, a low-lying sliver of treed rock—65 metres toits highest point—lies in Trincomali Channel between Galianoand Salt Spring Islands. Its irregular shape is 3 kilometres longand 650 metres wide at its broadest point. Essentiallyuninhabited, with no ferry service, the facilities are rustic andfires prohibited. You must be self-sufficient and pack out yourgarbage with you. There is drinking water, but it comes with awarning to boil it before using.

Judging by recent BC Parks’ figures, visiting the island in thedead of winter might be the only time to find quiet enjoyment atthis decade-old preserve. ‘The actual number of visitors is morethan triple the total of those who self-register their stay,’ saysTodd Shannon, former Area Supervisor for BC Parks. Thatmeans more than two thousand people visit the park during itssix-month season—nearly two-thirds of the horde coming inJuly and August alone.

Wallace wasn’t always so crowded, as barely a tent-full ofpeople ever lived there.

The first recorded settler was Jeremiah Chivers fromScotland, arriving in 1889 after chasing the goldrush. He livedalone until his death in 1927, at age 92. Some of the fruit trees heplanted can still be seen today. But, none of the gold Chivers wasrumoured to have hidden on the island was ever found.

In 1946, Americans David and Jeanne Conover bought theisland and started a resort. For nearly 20 years cottagesaccommodated summer visitors—mainly from the US. Duringthe off-season the Conovers endured an isolated existence.When Conover sold the island in 1965 he kept some of the landfor a new family residence. During David’s stint as an armyphotographer he captured images of the not-yet-famous MarilynMonroe and decades later Wallace Island benefitted from salesof those pictures.

In 1990 Wallace Island became a marine park, except for theConover’s residence that is privately owned by a new family.Since then, BC Parks marked campsites and improved hikingpaths. Moorage and campsites are minimal. Conover Cove istiny and shallow for anchoring—there are no mooring buoys.

The small dock is for boats up to 12 metres in length. Limitedrafting is encouraged but not required. Narrow Princess Bay hasmooring rings on shore to attach vessels’ stern lines. Itssandstone peninsula gives some protection, but passingfreighters and westerly seas can cause some disturbance to bothinlets. No approach is without hazard from reefs and shoals.

Getting there is a picturesque cruise among islands andthrough channels—sometimes in spite of wind, waves and tides.The route offers many port-in-a-storm options to obligechanging winter weather.

Wallace Island has hiking paths to its extreme ends, featuringwalks of up to two hours’ duration. The scenery includesremnants of a bomb shelter and a rusting 1950s Jeep.

Awesome moon-rises are seen from either end of the island.Bring your dinghy, canoe or kayak because the shoreline isexcellent for exploration by the smallest craft. Nearbygovernment docks on Salt Spring and Galiano Islands launchmany canoes and kayaks for fair-weather paddling to Wallace.There is abundant, entertaining wildlife—eagles, seals, deer,otter, mink and sea lions in winter.

Wallace is an island with its own bank account. ‘About$10,000 was donated by the public toward fixing the Conovercabins,’ according to parks supervisor Shannon. Interestedvisitors were the impetus for a restoration project. But the fundsraised are only half of what is needed to commence the work.

There are more immediate worries for Wallace. ‘The growingnumber of visitors cause increasing pressure on the fragileecology,’ according to Shannon, ‘We’re concerned aboutdestruction of vegetation and ways to minimize the impact.’Finding ecological damage isn’t surprising, considering thatrecently it was necessary to dig new pits for outhouses becausepark visitors had filled the old ones with garbage.

Evidence of more than a century of Wallace Island’s historyis palpable, as are hints of its future. Whether by choice or byweather, a stopover at this seemingly remote park is a tranquilbreak during a winter voyage, when sailors truly bond with theirboats and learn self-reliance at Neptune’s powerful hand.✐


15,000 copies this issueEvery Second Thursday

www.islandtides.comGULF ISLANDS’ ONLY FREE &

MAIL DELIVERYNEWSPAPER

ISLAND TIDES PUBLISHING LtdBox 55, Pender Island B.C. V0N 2M0

Publisher & Editor: Christa Grace-Warrick Contributors: Patrick Brown, Peter D. CarterPriscilla Ewbank, Eric Manchester, Rick Tipple

Gillian Allan, Marc LeeTelephone: 250-629-3660 Fax: 250-629-3838

Email: [email protected]: Wednesday between publications

Off-Islands Canadian Subscriptions $37.45Voluntary Mail & Box Pick-up Subscriptions $21.40

8,000 copies delivered to

Southern Islands’ households

7,000 copies onthe Ferry Routes

Sidney,Victoria& north of the

Malahat toNanaimo

Definitely Not The Ferries!

Winter CruiseEric Manchester

Readers’ Letters

CONCRETE & AGGREGATE DIVISIONReliable Service, Quality Products& Competitive PricesServing All The Gulf Islands

Phone 250-652-4484Fax 250-652-4486

6700 Butler Crescent, Saanichton, B.C. V84 2A6

Richard J. Wey BCLS

Legal, Engineering and Topographical SurveysSubdivision Planning

The Oakville Suite 106-9717 Third StreetSidney, BC V8L 3A3

Telephone 250-656-5155 Fax: 250-656-5175

GoingSomewhere?1-800-434-05661-800-434-0566

whittome’s [email protected]

60 Station Street, DuncanServing the valley since 1935

Most Fishmeal Fed to Land AnimalsDear Editor:In his column ‘Trash fish, Trash salmon,’ John Carlton talks offishmeal and aquaculture. Most of us agree that it is criminal tooverfish the oceans for production of fishmeal. However, Mr.Carlton is incorrect that this is ‘feed for, in the main, artificiallyraised salmon.’

In fact, about 70% of fishmeal goes to feed land animals,especially chickens and other poultry. Only about 7% of theworld’s fishmeal goes to farmed salmon.

That being the case, why did Mr. Carlton launch such avicious attack on salmon farming, but not on the much bigger(worse) situation on land? The other accusations about salmonfarming also apply to modern land-based rearing of poultry andlivestock. That includes food conversion efficiency, diseases(think BSE and bird flu), antibiotics, pollution, etc. A littlebalanced thought please, Mr. Carlton, before aiming an attack.

John Sprague, Salt Spring Island

Cathedral Grove Needs HelpDear Editor,Historically in British Columbia, a year or so before a provincialelection, government’s have offered payback to the electors,usually with visible mega-projects designed to stimulate theirlocal economies. WAC Bennett would build a dam or superhighway, his son Bill, the Coquihalla, and NDPer Glen Clark, afast ferry fleet. If the rush to move parking from Highway 4 to aparking lot within Cathedral Grove is on the presentgovernment’s gift list, then it’s imperative that they do it right!Following recent government announcements about thewonderful state of the economy, and the hundreds of millions oftaxpayers dollars being spent propping up the timber industry,there must be ample funds to do it properly!

Mike Stini, a wildlife biologist attests that the approved‘parking lot,’ presently placed within the old growth Douglasfir, is in critical elk winter range. Recent evidence (1997)proved that these giants are susceptible to wind-throw, fromthe adjacent clear cutting, and the last thing the trees need isto have more openings cut within and around the reserve.

The Park boundary signs are easily missed when positionedagainst the majestic forest lands with trees reaching to theheavens. Drivers-by can't be blamed for missing the fact thatthese trees are outside of the park and would be surprised toknow that Weyerhaeuser has the legal right to cut them. Thisonce in a lifetime possibility of expanding Cathedral Groveshould not be missed, and a decision to expand the park wouldreceive a majority of support across the province. The park isone of the few positive things for which the NDP are still praised.

As a remedial approach, the government should purchase,

trade, expropriate, intimidate or somehow come forth withsufficient non-contentious land suitable for a parking lot outsideof the present park. Elk need their habitat protected, as do otherherds using private lands. Government must show wisdom andvision and legislate the necessary rules not just here, but acrossthe landscape.

Public help is needed to provide a workable, and likely larger,Cathedral Grove along with a non-contentious parking lot.

Syd Haskell, President, Carmanah Forestry Society, Ed’s Note: The Society offers budget-priced bus tours of theCathedral Grove and of Carmanah and Walbran forests whichstart up again this month. Call CFS 250 381-1141 or [email protected]. Tell them you saw it in IslandTides!

Seniors’ HousingEd’s Note: This letter was sent to the North Pender Island TrustCommittee on January 8, 2004.Dear Sirs:I am a Pender resident of thirty-one years and a property ownerfor forty years, so I am naturally interested in any issues thatconcern the well-being and lifestyle of members of thecommunity. With regard to the proposed ‘seniors’ housing at theDriftwood Centre, I would like to raise the following points.

1. Location: the area allotted to seniors in the development isto my mind very unattractive. The view over the roofs of theshopping area, with the attendant noise and pollution from theparking lot, makes it very unappealing.

2. Topography: feel that any seniors’ housing should belocated on fairly level ground. The gradient up to the area inquestion could pose a problem to many seniors, particularlycarrying groceries or heavy packages.

3. Purchase: being over 90 I would not want to purchaseanother house, and I feel that many people younger than mewould feel the same way. I would not want the burden ofdisposing of real estate, nor would I want to impose this burdenon my beneficiary. Rental housing would surely be morepractical for any proposed seniors’ development.

4. Proximity to shopping, transportation: because a personhas moved into seniors’ housing does not mean that he/she hasgiven up driving. The area of residents’ parking at such facilitiesas Norgarden in Sidney would indicate that many of theresidents are driving. People on Pender are always ready to giverides to those who need them. I often do this myself, and in thecase of medical appointments where driving is precluded, I

always have offers of transportation. The Volunteer Driversprogram on Pender is very efficiently run and there never seemsto be a shortage of someone to help out.

For shopping trips and transportation to events on the island,surely some arrangement could be made with the Lions Club forthe use of their bus. In my view there is no need for our proposedseniors’ facility to be astride the shopping centre.

I trust that you will give some consideration to these ideas.Marjorie Bailey, North Pender Island

Family Farms ThreatenedEd’s Note: This letter was sent to Kersteen Johnston, ExecutiveDirector, Health Protection Planning Division in Victoria,Murray Coell, MLA, Saanich North and the Islands, Hon.Gordon Campbell, Premier, Hon. Colin Hansen, Hon. John VanDongen and Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries.

Dear Ms Johnston,On behalf of the 200 members of the Islands Farmers Institute,we would like to express our urgent concerns about the proposedchanges to Meat Inspection Regulations.

We certainly understand the need for regulation of meatproducts for health reasons, especially in light of the current BSEcrisis. But, if these regulations are approved in their presentform they could very well cripple the small-scale farms in mostareas of the province, except for those located near largecommunities, where the expense of regulated slaughterhousesbecomes feasible. The implementation of these suggestedregulations would be catastrophic for small Gulf Islandproducers.

Gulf Island, and particularly Salt Spring lamb, is a famousproduct, legendary for its quality. While current agribusiness hasa tendency towards centralized monopolies and factoryproduction methods, almost all of our local farms have tendedtowards small mixed farms in which the meat products: beef,pork, goat, poultry, and lamb are handled by traditional homeslaughtering or by one farmer slaughtering for another. There isa high demand for our products, especially the lamb.

Island farms are a diverse and needed alternative to thefactory farms, relying on many products, meat, fruit, vegetables,and ornamental flowers, treating their products in such aspecial, quality manner that they have justly earned their fame.There are over 250 farms on Salt Spring Island alone, so thatthough many flocks might be small, together, they comprise a

LETTERS, please turn to next page

large industry.The Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Fisheries employs a

full-time specialist responsible for Direct Farm Marketing. Itseems questionable why the Ministry of Health Planning wouldpropose these changes which would directly conflict with thisprogram.

Direct Farm Marketing is the majority of all lamb sales. Onlytwo or three of the largest farms can afford to slaughter off-island and enter the public wholesale market. For the majorityof us, the customers desire and seek our products, oftentravelling to Salt Spring (thereby contributing to the tourismindustry) for the purpose of purchasing island meat. Thedemand for organic or naturally raised food is growing, andalready the islands are unable to supply the demand. Thoughmost farms are mixed, meat is the cornerstone source of revenuefor many, and its loss would lead to the collapse of farms and theloss of other produce.

If the currently considered draft regulations areimplemented, on-island traditional slaughtering and homeprocessing will end, and the farm operations will have to cease.There is no facility that could be upgraded to the new standards,and the cost of building a new facility is too prohibitive for amarket with an already razor-thin profit margin.

Animals will, therefore, have to be shipped off-island,causing added stress and consequent loss of meat quality. Thiscould involve hundreds of dollars in ferry fares and at least twodays lost to travel (one to deliver to the slaughterhouse and oneto pick up meat), and will entail at least two different vehicles,one for delivery of live animals, and another for the pickup ofrefrigerated or frozen meat.

For the few lambs or a single cow or a few dozen poultryproduced by the average mixed farm this is prohibitive, and willput many out of business. It could cost as much as $100 dollarsto slaughter and process an average lamb which may sell for$150, and up to $4 apiece for the slaughtering and packaging ofa chicken. When you consider that normal feed andmaintenance allows for a profit margin of only a few dollars peranimal, the addition of these costs creates an impossiblesituation.

Farming is an integral part of the island communities, andclosely tied to our booming tourist industry. Many of our farmsalso provide B&Bs, as well as the produce for the famous IslandMarket. The farming community also provides employment forcasual labour and supports small businesses like feed andequipment and repair business.

To remove one of the main economic lynchpins from thefarms could have a disastrous domino effect, especially if farmshave to be sold due to economic failure, which would quicklylead to their development into private estates (many farms arenot in ALR) which would lead to the permanent loss ofagricultural land, a diminishing of the rural-based touristindustry, and losses to both tourism and other businesses relianton this interwoven economy.

The Food Safety Act allows some flexibility. Note the sectionsbelow:

Part 2.3 of the FSA suggests that requirements for inspection‘may be limited to a specified geographical area in BC.’

Section 23.2.y of FSA says that the Lieutenant Governor inCouncil may exempt ‘a class … of food establishment from theapplication of all or part of this Act or a regulation.’

We therefore request that animals slaughtered for direct

farm marketing (or farmgate as it is sometimes known) beexcluded from these regulations. If there are concerns that thismeat could be introduced to the regulated wholesale market, atracking and labelling system could be arranged, i.e. farmsrecording customer name, date and product, and meat labelledwith farm name and phone number and marked ‘not for resale,’as well as strict fines for any offenses. Traditional practices suchas slaughtering large animals on farms and cutting andwrapping in homes for direct farm marketing can then continue.The proposed regulations already permit slaughter for personaluse, and we are merely requesting that the definition of personaluse be slightly expanded to include the traditional ‘farmgate’practice of direct farm marketing.

At the very least, we request that the Islands be exempted dueto their travel hardships; however, it is our feeling that many,small farming communities in the distant reaches of thisprovince would also be adversely affected by these proposedregulations, so we believe that the continuation of ‘direct farmmarketing’ is the most acceptable solution.

C. Schmah, Chair, Salt Spring Island Farmers InstituteEd’s Note: The Islands Trust has written a letter in support ofresidents’ concerns about meat slaughtering regulations,noting the impact they will have on business and fundraisingevents such as the Saturna Lamb BBQ. Trust Chair DavidEssig’s letter can be read at www.islandstrust.bc.ca.

Union BustingDear Editor:Gordon Campbell’s legacy, his contribution to history if you will,is as the architect of the destruction of trade unions in BritishColumbia; his policies make instant sense when viewed fromthis perspective.

Let us quickly rattle-off a probably incomplete list ofunionized employees that this man has taken on, either throughprivatization, or the simple breaking by blunt axe of contractsentered into in good faith. The employees concerned were giventhe choice of being put on the street, or being prepared to workfor pay and conditions, relative to standards of the day, thatwould have given pause to even Russian peasants.

First it was the Government itself. Laying off BCGEUmembers wherever possible and then re-hiring them as privatenon-union contractors is a sneaky way to first break thetraditional solidarity of union employees, and thenhamstringing the union by dramatically reducing its numbers,and thus its financial base. Then came several different groupsof hospital workers, and of course the nurses. Next were theschool support staff, closely followed by the teachers. The war in


Sat & Sun, February 14 & 15‘Our Island, Our World’ Film Festival—30 films on topics ofpolitical and cultural interest with discussions after each film; alsoSaturday ‘Seed and Plant Exchange’ and Sunday Island volunteerorganizations host sidewalk cafe; food and childcare available •Gulf Islands Secondary School • 10–4pm • admission by donation• Info: Jane Squier, 537-5467 or Maggie Schubart, 537-9804 • ONSALT SPRING ISLAND

Fri & Sat, February 20 & 21Non-Violent Communication Workshops with RachelleLamb—FRI: On Self Compassion—examine destructive messageswe play about how we don't measure up and learn to change thiscycle of self-inflicted violence; SAT: Asking for What You Want—focus on making clear, do-able requests; childcare available •Galiano Community School • 10am-4:30pm • $25 per workshopor $40 for both • Info: Neith Doffing, 250-539-9866 to register •ON GALIANO ISLAND

Friday & Saturdays,February 20, 21 & 28Gulf Islands Concerts—The ToddButler Band • PENDER: Fri, PenderSchool, 7:30pm • SATURNA: Sat (Feb. 21),Community Hall, 8pm • MAYNE: Sat (Feb.28), Agricultural Hall, 8pm • Info: (Ticketsmay be available) Pender, Jean Bradley629-3360; Mayne, Caterina Geuer 539-3508; Saturna, Elizabeth McColl 539-5514• ON PENDER, MAYNE & SATURNA

Tuesday, February 24Pancake Supper—pancakes, sausages, dessert and beverages •Anglican Parish Hall • 5–7pm • everyone welcome: adults $5,children under 10 $2 • ON PENDER ISLAND

Friday, February 27Galiano Concert Series presents Todd Butler—musician,singer, comedian, story teller, satirist, veteran CBC Radioperformer; with Lee Oliphant on bass guitars & vocals, VinceDitrich on drums & vocals • Galiano Community Hall • 7:30pm•Tickets @ Galiano Is. Books & at concert • Info: Allan, 539-3323• ON GALIANO ISLAND

‘What’s On?’ Vancouver Island & The Gulf Islands

Only $26.75! • With photo just $32.10 to Promote your Event to 36,000 Readers from Tsawwassen to Victoria to Nanaimo

Bargain Promotion!Only $26.75 • With photo just $32.10

LANCE VAESEN ROOFING1184 SUMMIT AVE, VICTORIA

SSTTAANNDDIINNGG SSEEAAMM MMEETTAALL RROOOOFFIINNGGFFOORR WWAATTEERR CCOOLLLLEECCTTIIOONN SSYYSSTTEEMMSS

ALSO

TORCH-ON MEMBRANE SHAKE & SHINGLE

250-381-2157 CELL 250-361-5028 FAX 250-383-2198

Serving the Gulf Islands for 20 Years

School District #64(Gulf Islands)

Applications are invited for substitute/casual work asCustodians in all district schools. Applications should be accompanied by evidence ofsuccessful demonstration of the following:• Working knowledge of commercial custodial practices• Working knowledge of building alarm systems• WHMIS training• 2 years recent experience• Ability and desire to work collaboratively• Excellent time management and organizational skills• Conscientiousness, attention to detail, and pride in a jobwell done • Complete confidentialityPlease include work references with your application.Applications with supporting documents should beforwarded by Wednesday, February 18 at 4:00 p.m. to:

Rod Scotvold, Secretary TreasurerSchool District #64 (Gulf Islands)

112 Rainbow RoadSalt Spring Island, B.C.

V8K 2K3Fax: 250-537-4200

Email: [email protected] Posting #03

School District #64(Gulf Islands)

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATIONAny child who will be five (5) years of age on or beforeDecember 31, 2004 (born in 1999) should register for the2004/2005 school year in the school office the week ofMarch 1, 2004.

Galiano Community School (March 1, 2 & 3 only)9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Mayne Elementary/Jr. Secondary School8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Pender Islands Elementary Secondary School9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Saturna Elementary School11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Parents or Guardians: Please bring with you verification of the child’s birth dateand citizenship status (birth certificate, passport or LandedImmigrant authorization), as well as record ofimmunization.

SAVE OUR FERRIESADVOCACY GROUP

SAVE OUR FERRIES!Do you care about the future of your FerryService? The future—higher fares, reducedservice and less accountability.

Attend Your Local Public CommunityForum on Ferry Privatization

Learn about the changes legislated for ourferry system and how you can oppose thesemassive changes, which have been imposedby Bill 18–The Coastal Ferry Act.

Galiano: Sunday, February 15, 12pmSouth Hall Community Centre

Pender: Sunday, February 15, 7pmPender Island Library

Salt Spring: Monday, February 16, 7pmHarbour House, Ganges

Thetis: Tuesday, February 17, 7pmCommunity Centre, Forbes Rd.

Gabriola: Wednesday, February 18, 7pmAgricultural Hall

Mayne: Thursday, February 19, 7pmAgricultural Hall

Further dates to be announced in this paper.Go to saveourferries.com for updates and info.

PUBLIC SERVICES FORPEOPLE—NOT PROFIT

www.saveourferries.com

LETTERS from facing page

LETTERS, please turn to page 7

New UVIC study ofdrinking waterassessmentAn international research team led by a University of Victoriaaquatic ecologist has been awarded a $703,000 grant from theCanadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) to study howmolecular and biochemical tools can be used to track bacterialand chemical contamination in drinking water.

The study, which is being supplemented with $180,000from Health Canada and $500,000 from Agriculture Canadaand the beef and cattle industry, will examine the validity ofvarious techniques currently used for tracking E. coli outbreaksin the food industry, to see if they can be applied to drinkingwater contamination incidents such as occurred in Walkerton,Ontario.

‘Tracking the source of contamination is a huge public healthissue,’ says UVic’s Dr. Asit Mazumder. ‘Unless you know thesource of the contamination, you can’t control it. But to date, thescience is not there. We hope to change that.’

The new study will also assess the impact of various land useactivities on fecal contamination of drinking water and whathappens to the contaminants once they’re in the source waterecosystem.

‘Knowing the sources of contamination is not good enough,’explains Mazumder. ‘We need to know what environmentalvariables regulate the movement, viability and outbreakpotential of these contaminants.’

Mazumder heads the NSERC research chair on theenvironmental management of drinking water, based at UVic,which conducts interdisciplinary studies on a wide range ofissues related to drinking water, watershed management,fisheries and land-use activities. ✐


Live Your Dream

NEW PLAN BOOK NOW AVAILABLE– Over 100 full colour designs –

THE LINWOODADVANTAGE

CUSTOM DESIGNHIGH QUALITY CONSTRUCTION

MATERIALSFULL WARRANTY PROGRAM

WORLDWIDE SHIPPING EXPERTISECONSTRUCTION SUPPORT

1.888.546.9663www.linwoodhomes.com

specializing in

SHORELINEDESIGN

PRO STARMECHANICAL TECHNOLOGIES LTD.

IRONODOUR

BACTERIAHARDNESSARSENICFLUORIDE

ARE FOUND IN GULFISLAND WATER

FOR SOLUTIONS CALL:

320 Mary St., Victoria250-383-4558

[email protected]

ART & SOUL CRAFT GALLERY, Sturdies Bay. A wide selection of Galiano and BC art and crafts.Galiano and native art clothing (kiddie and youth sizes too). SALE of 40-50% on selected clothing… 539-2944 HOURS: FRI 10am–3pm, SAT & SUN 10am–5pm, extra viewing call Sandra 539-3075

Galiano Gifts Galore!Treat Yourself—& Those You Adore

NORTH PENDER ISLANDLOCAL TRUST COMMITTEE

Visit our website at: www.islandstrust.bc.ca Email: [email protected]

ADVISORY PLANNING COMMISSION APPOINTMENTThe North Pender Island Local Trust Committee is requesting expressions of interest forone (1) position on the Advisory Planning Commission. As required by the LocalGovernment Act, appointees must be electors of the North Pender Island Local TrustCommittee and two-thirds (2/3) of the APC must be residents of the North Pender IslandLocal Trust Area.Please send your expression of interest, listing your related experience for thepositions, by Tuesday, February 24, 2004 to:

North Pender Island Local Trust Committeec/o Kathy JonesIslands Trust,Suite 200 - 1627 Fort StreetVictoria, B.C. V8R 1H8Fax: (250) 405-5155

ISLANDS TRUST2004/2005 FINANCIAL PLAN

Visit our website at: www.islandstrust.bc.ca Email:[email protected]

The Islands Trust invites input from the public on its annual budget and financial plan.Details of the proposed budget can be obtained directly from the following Islands Trustoffices:

1206-115 Fulford-Ganges Road 102 - 10 Esplanade 200-1627 Fort StreetSalt Spring Island Nanaimo, BC Victoria, BCPhone: 250-537-9144 Phone: 250-741-1644 Phone:250-405-5151

This information is also available on the Island Trust’s website at: www.islandstrust.bc.ca

Submissions from the public regarding the financial plan must be delivered byWednesday, March 11, 2004 to the attention of the Treasurer at #200-1627 FortStreet, Victoria, BC V8R 1H8; by Fax: (250)405-5155 or by email at the above notedaddress.

Islands Trust, membership of Friends of SaltSpring Parks, Salt Spring Conservancy (pastDirector), Salt Spring for Justice andReconciliation, and the Coalition of ConcernedCitizens of Salt Spring Island.

Lewis helped with the 2000 federal electionand was a Green candidate for the 2001provincial election, winning over 25% of theriding vote. Lewis was also a key organizer forthe provincial Pro-Rep Initiative in 2002,helping to achieve the required 10% support inthe riding.

Commenting on the Green party platform,Lewis said, ‘Based on our values, we appeal tovoters right across the Canadian politicalspectrum.’

Green Parties have already formed sevencoalition governments world-wide includingGermany, France, Wales Mexico and NewZealand.

The Green Party of Canada is to datefielding 190 candidates in Canada’s 308ridings. Prince Edward Island has a full slate ofcandidatesfor the federal election. ✐

LEWIS from page 1

SATURNA from page 3recycling ethic and that there is a differencebetween garbage removal and recycling.

The public and Islanders were asked to ‘takeit easy’ on the landscaped site at the top ofMount Warburton Pike while the land settles inand takes hold. The trail at Narvaez Bay needsrestorative and protective measures on the wayto the point. The siting and construction ofofficial trails, dear to most park visitors hearts,must await the proper planning process. Trailshave a high priority on Parks Canada’s worklist.

Islander Nancy Angermeyer gave a visualpresentation of the eelgrass project that she isinvolved in with Nikki Wright and LeannaBoye of Sea Change Marine ConservationSociety. Eelgrass is a vital component in theintertidal zone. Nancy is currently mappingeelgrass beds around Saturna. Parks Canadawelcomes and encourages such initiatives—Parks control 200 metres of the shoreline intothe ocean on their Park properties.

Bill Henwood and Steve Langdon gave anupdate on the National Marine ConservationArea. The project is starting immediately with aone year feasibility study, followed by a year forpublic and stakeholder input.

Ron Hamilton informed the meeting thatfederal and provincial lawyers are meeting nextweek to finalize the agreement that will allowthe transfer of provincial lands to the FederalGovernment. The legal transfer is expected totake place in April 2004.

Carolyn Stewart is heading up the creationof the Park Advisory Board. It has 7 members,3 of who are from the public at large—themembers will be chosen in March from the 47applicants. The role of this Board is to look atthe broader issues involved with thedevelopment of the park and to advise ParksCanada.

A trail crew made up of First Nationpersonnel and possible additional high schooland university students will be employed thisyear with a crew based out of Sidney. Meetingthis requirement, Saturna students arewelcome to apply.

Parks Canada intends to hold a publiccommunity meeting on Saturna in February.

Dave Peck on Al Scott Last edition’s article about Al Scott's retirementwas written by his dear comrade andcompatriot on the Mayne Queen, Dave Peck, atmy request. ✐

Proposals sought to clean upcontaminated water at Britannia MineThe province has issued a request forexpressions of interest to clean up thecontaminated water flowing from the Britanniamine site using an acid-water treatment plant.The request seeks to identify firms interested inproviding effective, innovative proposals todesign, build, finance and operate the watertreatment plant at the former mine nearSquamish.

The mine, once the largest copper mine inthe British Commonwealth, has been a majorsource of mine water pollution in Howe Sound,since its closure in the mid-1970s. The sitedischarges an average of 629kg each day ofheavy metals, making it one of the largest

sources of acid rock drainage to a marineenvironment in North America.

‘The water contamination has long been aconcern locally and internationally,’ said WestVancouver-Garibaldi MLA Ted Nebbeling.‘Addressing it will encourage development,tourism and other investment.’

Proposals will be evaluated based onqualifications, experience, use of demonstrated,innovative technology and financial capacity.

Remediation work is already under way,including moving contaminated soils, capturingand redirecting surface runoff andcontaminated groundwater.’✐

Mayne animator winsAnimator Gail Noonan of Mayne Island has another award to add to her string. She was the winnerof the Government of Canada Award for Best Short Animation at the Victoria Independent Film& Video Festival. Her award-winning film is entitled ‘More Sensitive.’ ✐

Terra Firma Builders Ltd won two golds fortheir rammed earth home on Salt Spring Islandat the BC Canadian Home Builders GeorgieAwards ceremony on January 31. The earthhome won Best Single Family Detached Home2000-2999 sq. ft and Best EnvironmentalConsideration and Energy Efficiency.

The same home also won Terra Firma the2003 CHBA-Victoria People’s Choice andEnvironmental Achievement Awards.

The earth walls on this award winning homeare two-feet thick, stabilized for earthquakesand insulated against the cold. They surpassbuilding code requirements. MerorKrayenhoff, head of Terra Firma sites researchshowing that using earth walls instead of stickframe on a 2,000 sq. ft. home will saveapproximately 15 average-sized trees perhouse.

Environmental concerns are not the onlyreasons that homeowners are choosingrammed earth. Krayenhoff says many of hiscustomers come to him because of health orstress concerns. The earth walls, concretefloors, in-floor heating, built-in vacuum, HRVand solid wood cabinetry provide impeccableindoor air quality. It’s also great forsoundproofing. The winning home on SaltSpring is next to the busiest road on the Island.‘It’s peaceful and quiet inside that house,’ saysKrayenhoff. ‘It's amazing to see the traffic go byand not hear it.’

Other pluses include gutter-free design,recycled rubber tire roofing singles and lowelectromagnetic radiation wiring.

In 2000, Terra Firma Builders won theCHBA-BC’s ‘Best Home Builder in BC’ for theirrammed earth construction.✐

Dirt strikes gold— earth home winshousing awards

Memorandum says no mining inprovincial parksOn January 22, Green Party Leader AdrianeCarr attended the signing in Vancouver of a‘historic’ Memorandum of Understanding(MOU) between the Mining Association of BC,the Yukon Chamber of Mines and the Councilof Tourism Associations of BC. Stan Hagen,Minister of Sustainable ResourceManagement, represented the BC Liberals.

‘The Green Party of BC is pleased that theMOU verifies that BC parks and protectedareas are off-limits to mining and exploration.This is an important first step to protect a keypart of BC's economy: the growing tourismindustry,’ said Carr. ‘The mining industry has arole to play in the provincial economy, but itcannot be allowed to hurt tourism, it must benon-polluting, and it must respect FirstNations rights and land claims,’ adds Carr.

Carr noted that the MOU only recognizesthat First Nations ‘assert’ their rights and titleover Crown lands and resources and that thememorandum signatories will only aim to find‘workable accommodations for these interests.’‘Such ambiguity may make this memorandum

meaningless,’ said Carr.‘The focus of the MOU is to provide

economic assurances for the industriesinvolved, but this is impossible for anygovernment to deliver with First Nations rightsand land-title issues still unresolved and globalmarkets subject to ongoing change anduncertainty. The public must have the right todecide land use in the future and it would beunwise to lock down land-use based on today’spriorities,’ Carr explained.

The government has previously expressedinterest in cutting back the size of the SouthChilcotin Mountains Park. Carr expressedconcern that such a move would make theMOU merely a PR ploy. ‘Any document is onlyas good as the actions that follow it. After thepress conference I talked with Minister Hagenseeking his assurance that no plans were in theworks to shrink the Chilcotin park boundariesto facilitate mining. He walked away withoutanswering. I’d like the government to stateunequivocally that this is not their intention,’said Carr.✐

The new revised edition of the Canadian

Subsidy Directory 2004 is now available. The

new edition is the most complete and

affordable ($69.95) reference for anyone

looking for financial support—a tool for new or

existing businesses, individual ventures,

foundations and associations.

The directory lists more than 2,000 direct

and indirect financial subsidies, grants and

loans offered by government departments and

agencies, foundations, associations and

organizations. Copies are available from

Canada Books at 450-224-9275.✐

Subsidy directory—great buy for libraries


Bulletin Board(PAID BY DEADLINE ONLY - VISA ACCEPTED) • Phone 250-629-3660, Fax 250-629-3838

Email: [email protected] • Next DEADLINE: Noon, Feb 18, 2004BULLETIN BOARD BOXED ADS – 1’, 2’ & 3’– $20 per inch+gst— multi-issue discounts BULLETIN BOARD WORD ADS - $17.12 for 25 words or less, 27¢ per additional word

ISLANDMARINE

CONSTRUCTIONSERVICESPh: 250-537-9710

Email: imarinec@salt spring.comwww.islandmarine.ca

FOR RENT

MARINE

FOR WILD BIRDS & GARDENERS

Home & GardenAccessories

•

Wild Bird & HummingbirdFeeders

• Quality Seed and Suet

George Lovick & Calvor Palmateer

1-250-881-7575566 Johnson St, Victoria

Email:[email protected] owned/operated since 997

AUTOMOTIVE

MAUI Vacation Condos

1 & 2 bedroom unitsOcean & Garden Views

Reasonable RatesUpgraded, CLEAN units

1-800-800-8608www.mauisuncoast.com

HOME, GARDEN & PROPERTY

Galleon Books & AntiquesBuying & Selling QualityUsed Books, Antiques &

Collectibles

We Purchase Estates &Private Libraries

Call for On-Site Valuation

(250) 655-07009803 Third Street Sidney

[email protected]

D. A. SMITHSON & SONS

Well Drillers539-5252 or250-478-6937

BOOKS

TTrreevvoorr’’ssGGaarrddeenn

MMaaiinntteennaannccee

pruning • trimmingplanting • bed workseasonal cleanups

225500--662299--33338800oonn PPeennddeerr IIssllaanndd

Luttmer Woodworks

Kitchens Wall units

Closet organizers

250-539-0466 www.luttmerworks.com

ARMOUR

ROOFINGA Division of Flynn Canada

• Torch-On • Standing Seam & Low-slope

Metal Roofing • Custom Flashing • Asphalt & Cedar Shingles• 6” Water Collection Gutters

1-877-652-0599Member: Better Business

Bureau,Roofing Contractors Assoc of B.C.

www.flynn.ca

GETAWAYS

1-877-655-3707Local: 655-3707

#3 - 2051 MALAVIEW(ACROSS FROM SLEGGS)

TRANSMISSION SPECIAL!✔ Trans inspection✔ Cleanpan ✔ adjustbands✔ Replace pan gasket✔ Check modulator✔ Adjust throttle linkage✔ Fill with new trans. fluid

only$29.95

reg. $49.95Filter extra if

required

SIDNEY TRANSMISSIONS

• AUTOMATICS & STANDARDS• 4-WHEEL DRIVE SPECIALIST• DIFFERENTIALS • CLUTCHES

• NAT’L WARRANTY • COURTESY CARS

CUSTOMER PICK-UP &DELIVERY TO FERRY TERMINAL

ISLAND EXPLORERPROPERTY MANAGEMENT LTD.

250-654-0230Southern Gulf House & Cottage Rentals

PENDER: Wonderful ocean viewsfrom this furnished 2 bedroominsulated cottage. Availableimmediately to mid-July-$700. Listyour long term rental property orvacation home with us! LicensedProperty Management on the GulfIslands since 1994.

PROVEN SERVICE •COMMITMENT • RESULTS

1-800-774-1417email:[email protected]

www.island-explorer.com/pender

ADVERTISEWITH US

High Visibility toPromote Your

Business to 36,000Readers fromTsawwassen to

Victoria toNanaimo

250-629-3660(Fax: 250-629-3838)

Mayne Island—very clean, well-kept two bedroom & den (or threebedroom) mobile home on 1/3acre, near ocean at Bennett Bay.With washer/dryer, fridge/stoveand microwave. Woodburningfireplace in living room.$500/month. Utilities extra. Call604-523-0713

FOR SALE1989 Ford Econoline E250 propane-powered camper van. Stove/oven,fridge, propane fireplace, 12-discCD player, large skylight, pinetongue and groove paneling. Openand spacious design. Goodcondition. $5500 obo. Phone Trevoror Gillian, 250-629-3380.

would have to take place during a full examination of thealternate fuels proposal.

It is hoped that the Water, Lands & Air Protection ministrywill respond by providing assistance in facilitating a thoroughexchange of information on all the issues relevant to the permitapplication.

The central question is—can the Crofton mill use thesealternative fuels to reduce operating costs and reduce pollution?The pollution issues are dioxins (the most toxic of chemicals),volatile organic pollutants like benzene, sulfur compoundsparticularly sulfur dioxide, many heavy metals, poly-aromatichydrocarbons like benzapyrene, and particulates. All of thesecan be dangerous to health. Many are carcinogens. Persistentbioaccumulative toxins include dioxins & furans PCBs andmercury.

People may not know that chemicals can be ingested throughthe lungs by passing direct to the circulation in the lung tissuefrom where they are distributed to the entire body—in the sameway we absorb oxygen.

In their move to extend the review process NorskeCanadahas decided to set its own standards in considering expert andpublic input—so much the better. ✐

NORSKE from page 1

LETTERS from page 5the woods bubbles on, with our modern, efficient, and unionizedindustry being sold off to replace the antiquated plants south ofthe border. The date of resolution of the softwood lumberargument will, surprise, surprise, be very close to the time whenBC’s timber industry is for practical purposes sold, and atbankruptcy prices. The legal and medical professions have alsoseen the teeth of Campbell.

Even the unionized, and very competent BC shipbuildingindustry has been told to compete with offshore shipbuilders. Ican’t wait to see ‘Spirit of Hyundai’ with a Monrovian flag ofconvenience waving from the stern, and a thoroughly exploitedand intimidated, but non-union crew from anywhere but here.Paul Martin can fill him in on all the ‘how to’ details from his pastlife. The sale of BC Rail was the most recent example of theunfortunate and historic Campbell tendency to break promisesand slaughter those who trusted them. Now it is the turn of theferries.

There is a particularly favorite sophistry of the liberals thatcannot go unchallenged, which is the oft repeated statement thatthe BC Ferry Corp must run at a profit, or at least pay its ownway, and that this is the only path to good government. Does thismean that the Army and Navy be required to run at a profit?Sorry, that’s federal, and not Campbell’s problem.

What about the police then? They are provincial, at least inpart. Should not they too run at a profit? Why not crank up thetraffic fines until the police force pays for itself. They have aunion too, and for now are being noticeably left alone, and willbe for as long as Campbell needs them to make certain thatdemonstrations against him are thoroughly muzzled, and tokeep the poor out of sight. Their turn will come however, eventhough they may be the last to feel the whip. By then however, asthe old saying about persecution goes, there will be no one left tospeak for them.

I have a few questions for Campbell and his devotees. Wewere told that BC Ferries is now a private company, andtherefore somehow superior. Since when, does a privatecompany get to be an essential service? It is hard to have this oneboth ways, and it seems that it is not really private after all. Doesthis mean that Campbell was fibbing? How could that be?

Finally, and for the record, ferry workers do not get anythinglike the $34,000 per year numbers mentioned over and overagain. That is an average that includes some very highly paid,and deservedly so, masters, mates, and engineers. Theoverwhelming number of ferry workers actually earn about$18,000 per annum, so a last question: ‘Just what is it that ourgovernment, who cannot get their minds above their wallets,

have against paying people a decent living wage, anyway?’John Carlton, Pender Island

Farewell from Camelot-By the SeaDear Editor:It is with mixed feelings that I write this but would feel remiss ifI did not express some departing thoughts and words for thosethat would remember the following information and for thosethat would not be aware of it:

The name, Camelot-By the Sea was conceived and applied toour first Gulf Island property on Galiano Island in the late1970’s, which related to our exposure to acceptable climate andscenic outlook.

After five years residence in Australia and returning, a secondCamelot-By the Sea was developed in 1987 in the PortWashington area, North Pender Island. This home representedand became the realization of a long-time dreamed of, designedand constructed development for its owners.

Without prior or planned eventual outcome it became a Bed& Breakfast retirement business by rapid evolvement that lastedfor several years. In addition to the B&B it became a social centrefor several community and Anglican church activities before aSaint Peter’s Parish Hall existed. Camelot hosted Bishop’svisitations, Anglican Church Womens’ meetings, Christmasparties and finally a record-breaking fundraising ACW AnnualGarden Party. It was also a place to cater to outgoing andincoming clergy and receptions for departed residents as well asseveral wedding ceremonies. Power and Sail SquadronChristmas parties and summer picnics were also held at Camelotbesides numerous private functions by its owners whenentertaining visiting family, overseas guests and friends.

Approaching up to and the eventual death of Camelot’sgracious hostess, Patricia J. Barnes in 2002, it was retired fromthe B&B business and practically all other social functions. It hasnow been sold to new owners, present island landowners, whoshould appreciate it’s history and background more than anynewcomers would.

So with much empathy and deep feelings of loss andemptiness although with some satisfaction of achievement, I willleave to attempt to move into a new chapter of life, as I sayfarewell from Camelot-By the Sea.

I trust the name will be remembered with good, meaningfulpast memories, that I of course will always retain, and wish thenew owners the best of all good things as they appreciate aspecial place.

Gordon D. Barnes, Pender Island ✐

Twice As Good ~ Gillian Allan

Now that all your wrapping paper and boxes have made itto your local recycling depot, it’s time to move on fromthe holidays and get back to recycling business.

First order of business, I’m the new MunicipalEnvironmental Educator for the Southern Gulf Islands. I’mtaking this over from Mayne Island’s Ann Johnson who hasdone, and will continue to do, so much for the recyclingmovement. Thank you Ann! Hopefully you’ll see me on yourIsland, at your Recycling AGM, checking out your depot orteaching a workshop at your school.

Second order of business, please don’t forget to pay your2004 memberships or make a donation to your local depot!They need your support.

Guy Dauncey Speaks at Pender AGMThe Pender Recycling AGM on January 20 started with reportsfrom the president, the manager, and the accountant. It was abusy year with an 11% increase in traffic!

Next Guy Dauncey, a well-known, committed environmentalactivist and author, spoke about some of the challenges ahead ofus (depleted fish stocks, global warming, etc.), his passion(evoluntionary biology) and possible future scenarios orsolutions.

Guy talked about how evolutionary theory was wronglyseparated from spirituality due to fear (when these theories weredeveloping, you may have been killed if your sciencecontradicted the church). Guy also noted that when he goesaround and talks to people he finds they all desire the samethings: clean air, good food and clean water. This is a reflection,he feels, of human evolution—the very thing that may save usfrom environmental meltdown—our positive outlook and desirefor a good life.

Guy also suggested that strong non-governmentalorganizations are the answer to getting things changed and thistakes time. The vote for women was a 75-year struggle! Oneproject he is taking on is starting an NGO in BC to lobby foralternative energy. (Please contact him if you’re interested inbecoming involved.)

Guy also gave us a project—find a way to use recycled paperbales to build houses straw-bale-style. Apparently it’s been donetwice, but more pioneering needs to happen.

If you’d like to know more about Guy, he keeps the worldinformed on enviro issues and their solutions through hisnewsletter Econews and his website www.Earthfuture.com.

The AGM ended with bicycle-power-blended smoothies andcookies! A lovely way to end an inspiring evening.

Mayne AGM Coming UpThe Mayne Recycling AGM is coming up on March 10—

mark your calendars Mayne Islanders, these AGMs are fun! ✐

WAR from page 2

Kuwait than it should and is then reselling this gasoline at a hugeloss inside Iraq,’ they wrote. ‘Whether this is due toincompetence, malfeasance, or some other reason, the waste oftaxpayer dollars must be stopped.’

Similar deals in Iraq have been granted to the Bechtel Corpamounting to $1.03 billion. Chevron-Texaco joined five otherinternational oil companies selected by the Iraqi State OilMarketing Organization to market Iraqi oil. JP Morgan, the USnation’s second largest bank, which was implicated in the Enronscandal, has been contracted by the Iraq Coalition ProvisionalAuthority (CPA) to run a consortium of 13 banks that willconstitute the Trade Bank of Iraq.

Winning HeartsThe Center For Public Integrity released a report on October 302003, entitled Windfalls of War: US Contractors in Iraq andAfghanistan. The report charges that 70 US corporations with$8 billion in no-bid contracts in Iraq have donated $500,000 tothe Bush 2004 election campaign. Since 1990, the report adds,these same companies have poured $49 million into the coffersof mostly Republican candidates for federal and state politicaloffice.

It may be that the Iraqi people view the US actions as takingover of Iraq’s oil by US oil corporations as contradicting Bush’spromise that Iraqi oil was for the Iraqi people. This situationdoesn’t seem like the way for the US to win the hearts and mindsof the Iraqi people—another of President Bush’s statedobjectives. Winning their war was a foregone conclusion. TheUS has shown little genuine interest in winning the peace. ✐


Accommodation & Attractions Vancouver Island & The Gulf Islands

Weekdays

The Island's premiere resort hotel.

Weekends

Moped Packages andhourly/daily rentals

Canada’sFriendly B&Bs

www.bbvacation.comCANADABC.com

canadacyberhighway.com

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

“The Brig” has had a Refit!The waterfront pub in Maple Bay

Live Music Wed� Sat� & Sun Night Dine on our new enclosed balcony

�� Beaumont Ave� Duncan ��Coming by boat? Use our guest wharf

Beer� Wine & Liquor Storeopen � days a week� am to pmAll N

ew!

The Haven B&BIn Peaceful Victoria

Close to beach, hospitaland university. Organicbreakfasts and privatebathrooms. $40-$60

250-598-7015

3110 DOUGLAS ST. VICTORIA, BC V8Z 3K4 across from Mayfair Shopping Centre,

1-800-997-6797www.blueridgeinn.ca

* Single occupancy. Subject to availability. Valid to March 31, 2003

$39*from

better deal!visitors a

Our quality accommodation includes:indoor pool, sauna, free parking, in-room coffee, a convenient location and a warm welcome. Stay with us.

We offer

*Single occupancy. Subject to availability. Valid until March 31, 2004.

Village Garden SuiteCook Street Village, Victoria

2 bedrooms, 2 baths,

ground floor in family

home. Sleeps 4 adults. Very

cosy, superb location.

Available March 12-19,

other dates available.

$1000/week, $150/day

250-361-3102

At Home In VictoriaComfortable lodging. Closeto downtown & hospitals.

$25/sgle, $35/dble,queen

250-920-9953

36,000 Readers Tsawwassen, GulfIslands, Victoria,

Nanaimo250-629-3660

GREEN PARTY OF CANADAGREENS STAND FOR • Quality Healthcare for All

• Fiscally Responsible Government • Community-basedDemocracy and Electoral Reform • Fair Trade and Sustainable

Communities • Long-term Strategic Vision

Support Andrew LewisYour candidate for the April federal election

JOIN THE GREEN TEAM NOW!

You can make a difference...I’d like to make a tax deductible donation of $50—real cost of $12.50* • $100—real cost of $25* • $200—real cost of $50* • $400—real cost

of $100* (*for those paying federal income taxes)

I’d like ___ lawn signs.

I can host a house gathering so friends and neighbours can meet Andrew Lewis.

I can deliver ___ leaflets in my neighbourhood.

Please contact me about other volunteer opportunities.

I’d like to join the Green Party (membership $10-$25, sliding scale).

Name _________________Address __________________

City/Island ___________________ Postal Code________

Phone __________ Email Address__________________

Mail to: The Chair, Saanich-Gulf Islands Green Party8727 Lochside Drive, Sidney BC, V8L 1M8

All cheques payable to: Saanich Gulf Islands Green Party EDA

For more information, contact 250-653-4630.

Authorized by the Financial Agent, Saanich-Gulf Islands Green Party

YOU ARE THE FUTURE!Greens have been elected in 29 countries, forming governing coalitionsin seven. It is time Canada joined the global movement and electedGreen Party MPs. Saanich–Gulf Islands, one of the strongest ridings inCanada, is ready to lead the way.

REAL CHANGE! REAL CHOICE!

VOTE! ANDREW LEWIS for Saanich-Gulf Islands Green MP!X

I believe true leadership is rooted in our localcommunities, not in Ottawa. I trust you will join me in thecoming election and help Saanich-Gulf Islands show Canadatrue 21st Century leadership, and elect our first Green MP.

Affordable and appropriate housing has beenan issue of concern on the Gulf Islands formany years. Affordable housing for youngfamilies is a particular concern as land valuesand house prices rise. Quite a number offamilies have second and third generationsliving in their communities. Manageablehousing for residents who have grown old onthe Islands is another concern.

Many Islands have affordable and seniorshousing committees researching the needs ofthe community and ways to satisfy themwithin the Islands’ environmental ‘preserveand protect’ mandate.

Pender Island’s Womens Institute (WI) isthe most recent in joining in the enquiry. Thegroup has struck a committee to investigatethe situation on the Penders. They arereviewing the community plans of thirteenislands to see what ideas could be useful onthe Penders. The group is also reviewing thenine or ten points pertaining to housing inNorth Pender’s current Official CommunityPlan.

On Thursday, February 5, the WI held aworkshop on the topic of seniors housing onthe Penders, hearing from community nursePatti Parkyn, crisis counsellor Reverend RobWillingham and Vern Roddick speakingabout Plum Tree Court, the seniors housing

complex, and from homecare workers SueBird and Pamela Brooks, how spoke aboutsmart design features in housing for theelderly.

Consensus seems to be that residents whoremain on the Island into old age are ‘fiercelyindependent’ and want to stay on theirpresent properties as long as they can. Many,once they need more medical or personalcare, choose to move off-Island whereservices and relatives are closer to hand.

For those remaining, support services—home care, meals on wheels, day care andold-fashioned neighbourliness—are good onthe Penders. Old folks can receive between 2and 12o hours of provincial homecare permonth before they need to move into anassisted living facility.

The meeting heard that the next level ofcare, assisted living, such as an Abbeyfieldcomplex, is unlikely to be possible on thePenders as the community of elderly desiringsuch a facility is too small. Statistics in the USdemonstrate that people only live in assistedcare situations for an average of two yearsafter leaving their conventional homes.

Womens Institute members hope thattheir work will be helpful in North Pender’supcoming community plan review. ✐

Pender women get going onhousing issues

BC Hydro is offering $1,000 scholarships toBritish Columbian students again this year.There will be more than 200 scholarshipsawarded in five categories: General, PowerSmart, Aboriginal, the L'EcolePolytechnique Memorial and the Electrician

Pre-apprentice scholarship. Scholarship applications will be accepted

from February 2 to April 2, 2004. Moreinformation and application forms are atwww.bchydro.com/scholarships.✐

BC Hydro offers scholarships tostudents

BC’s new Education Minister will have a lot onhis plate in the short lead-up to the 2004provincial budget. Many are hoping that MrChristensen will repair government relationswith teachers and school boards. If he is to besuccessful, there is some basic math that mustbe done first.

Parents and teachers—and most of all,students—know that schools have been closed,teaching and administrative positions havebeen cut, and class sizes have grown in the pastcouple of years.

Mr Christensen’s predecessor, ChristyClark, on the other hand, argued that per-pupilfunding is rising and that the government isspending more money on education than everbefore. The blame for cuts, in her view, lies withlocal school boards not the provincialgovernment.

Technically speaking, Ms Clark was correct.Funding from Victoria has grown, though verymodestly. And because of declining studentenrollment in recent years, total spending perstudent is also up.

But she loses marks by failing to take intoaccount a very important element of educationfinancing: the cost of providing educationservices. In the same way that consumer pricestend to rise over time (i.e. inflation), so does thecost of salaries for teachers, administrators andsupport staff, the cost of books and classroommaterials, the cost of utilities such as heating,and costs related to transportation and othereducation-related supplies and services.

Real Funding DropsSince 1990/91, provincial funding for K-12 hasgrown by 43%. But the cost of providing thesame level of education in 2003/04 is about34% higher than it was in 1990/91. And eventhough student enrollment has declined inrecent years, it is still 12% higher than in1990/91.

When these factors are combined, thepressures experienced by educators, parentsand students become apparent. Over the1990/91 to 2003/04 period, real funding perstudent was at its highest level in 1990/91, thendeclined through most of the 1990s, with the

exception of a few years late in the decade.Since 2000/01, real funding per student has

dropped steeply. The past two years have hadthe lowest funding over the entire period, eventhough declining enrollment should make thisan ideal time to recover lost ground.

The impact has been significant. Some 92schools have been closed over the past twoyears, more than 14,000 students have beendisplaced from their schools, and 2,881teaching positions have been cut. And, withoutadditional contributions from the BCgovernment, this trend will continue for thenext few years .

Restore Funding to 1990 LevelsAs a result, the K-12 education system is atgreat risk in terms of its ability to deliver highquality services to BC’s children. A first stepwould be to increase education funding by$300 million in the 2004 Budget, a move thatwould restore real per student funding back to1990/91 levels.

The alternative is an education systemstruggling to keep up. Already, parents areincreasingly required to pay for schoolmaterials, field trips, music fees, and so on,while feeling compelled to pay again to supportlocal schools through bake sales and pizza dayfundraisers.

Left unchecked, the result will be growinginequities, as schools in more affluentneighbourhoods have better access to extrafunds from well-heeled parents. Schools inlower-income neighbourhoods are not sofortunate.

The new Minister of Education needs to domore than conjure up numbers to create theillusion of spending more on education. Heneeds to actually put the financial resources inplace to ensure the reality of a high qualityeducation system. BC’s children deservenothing less.

Marc Lee is an economist in the BC office of theCanadian Centre for Policy Alternatives andauthor of “Who’s Cutting Classes? Untanglingthe Spin in K-12 Education”, available on theCCPA web site, www.policyalternatives.ca. ✐

School funding doesn’t add upMarc Lee

Documents

Gulf Islands’ Attractions...long regatta of ‘Racing In Plumper Sound’ is scheduled for August 15–20, 2004. Patterned after the hugely-successful ‘Whidbey Island Race Week,’