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Vol. 13 Issue 1March 2016

Serving the Juan de Fuca:Port RenfrewJordan RiverOtter PointEast Sooke

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Rural OBSERVERCelebrating Our Rural Community Lifestyle

Helping A Displaced Family

A Far Out Adventure

Connected To The Land

2 March 2016

A group of Juan de Fuca residents formed a non-profit society to launch a news and advertising publication for the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area.

We provide a forum for our rural communities to share news, exchange ideas and develop a sense of community. At the same time the publication gives businesses within and outside the electoral area an opportunity to promote their products and services and reach potential customers. We also hope to make current information about the region and its services available to the many tourists who visit the area each year. Our goal is to protect, preserve and enhance rural life.

The publication will rely on community members to share their interests and points of view through articles, correspondence and photographs. We welcome articles and letters reflecting the very diverse interests of our member communities and expressing all points of view. The editorial committee reserves the right to edit for brevity, accuracy, clarity and taste. Though every reasonable precaution will be made to verify the accuracy of material submitted, the editorial committee assumes no responsibility for the content of published articles. The responsibility is that of the writers. References and descriptions of products or services are provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied. We’re online! www.ruralobserver.comIf you wish to submit an article for an upcoming issue of the Rural Observer, please email it to:

submissions@ruralobserver.com

Or mail to: Juan de Fuca Rural Publication Society 2617 Seaside Drive, Shirley, BC V9Z 1G7

The Juan de Fuca Rural Publication Society Mission Statement

Mailing ServicesVivi CurutchetAdvertising Sales

Ph: (250) 642-1714Email: advertise@ruralobserver.com

Vivi CurutchetAdvertising Sales

Phone: 778-528-2299Email: advertise@ruralobserver.com

understanding cultural differences. As this process unfolds, the group will need volunteers who can help in all of these areas or provide in-kind donations.

And, while there have been incidents of less-than-welcoming behaviour towards refugees entering Canada, there should be little concern about the people who will settle here and become contributing members of our community. The family destined for Sooke or Juan de Fuca will be genuine refugees in fear for their lives, not economic migrants looking for a chance to improve their standard of living. The 1951 Refugee Convention states that a “refugee” is someone who has “a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, is outside the country of his nationality, and is unable to, or owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail himself of the protection of that country.”

Once established as genuine refugees, Canadian authorities interview the family to determine if they’re admissible to Canada. Medical, security and criminal screening are completed. Families will not enter Canada if found to pose a threat to national security, have been involved in organized crime or be a danger to public health. “These are families just like Canadian families,” says Jorna. “By helping them we are doing our bit to counter suffering, hatred and fear in the world. Our actions take a stand against the forces that are creating these horrific conditions.”

As of the end of January, Team Sooke/Juan de Fuca was approaching the half-way mark of its $50,000 fundraising goal, and the list of people offering to help in other ways grows every week. A good start, but not yet enough to send out that hoped-for invitation to a waiting family. To make a donation or get more information, go to www.teamsookejuandefua.ca or phone Sid Jorna at 250-642-2767

3 March 2016

Helping a Displaced Family Find a Home by Shannon Moneo

An engineer, his schoolteacher wife and their two teenage children were forced to abandon their home in Mosul in Northern Iraq after the father was falsely accused of being an agent for the U.S. A police officer was threatened with beheading if he, his wife and two children did not leave their home in Iraq within 24 hours. A Christian who worked in a Baghdad liquor store fled to Lebanon with his wife and son after a car bomb was set off near the store, and armed men threatened the staff.

Sadly, these stories represent only a tiny sliver of the millions of traumatized people who are fleeing countries such as Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Burundi or South Sudan. According to the United Nations, there are at least 15 million refugees in the world. As well, another 5.1 million registered refugees are lodged in about 60 camps in the Middle East. They’ve lost their homes and belongings, been separated from loved ones, and their abilities are going to waste as they suffer a life in limbo.

Here on comfortable, peaceful Vancouver Island, a local group is working to create a new home for a refugee family who could come from anywhere in the Middle East, Asia or Africa. In December, the first meeting of the Team Sooke/Juan de Fuca Refugee Sponsorship Committee was held. Led by Chair Sid Jorna, an Otter Point resident, roughly 50 people attended the meeting. The willingness to help was unmistakeable. Since the first meeting, a core group of six people has been formed to deal with the administrative, fundraising and media/publicity duties.

While Syrian refugees have been in the limelight, Jorna stresses that the home country of the expected new residents of Sooke/Juan de Fuca will not be known until the Refugee Committee is further along in what is proving to be a comprehensive process guided by rules, checks and assurances.

To streamline the sponsorship, the Committee operates under the auspices of the Catholic Diocese of Victoria and the Anglican Diocese of B.C. The Anglican Diocese is what is known as a Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH) with Immigration Canada. The Diocese has years of experience in resettling refugees, and thus will assist Team Sooke/Juan de Fuca with its private sponsorship.

Crucial, says Jorna, is that the local Committee raise $35,000 before requesting a family. The money will ensure that initial expenses will be fully covered for one year, one of the SAH requirements. The full fundraising goal is $50,000, which includes a $10,000 contingency. All funds raised will be used to support a refugee family. Support means paying for their housing, food, clothing and incidentals. As well, the new residents will require medical and dental care, and perhaps counselling, given that they may have fled a bombed-out home or experienced torture. Language training, employment counselling and school liaison will also be required. And don’t forget assistance with activities we take for granted, such as shopping, banking, navigating our rural area and

Kids just being kids. But this is a school day, and these Syrian girls living in Istanbul should be in class. Refugee children can rarely enroll in school. The longer the family waits for a permanent home, the greater toll it takes on everyone’s chances for the future.

4 March 2016

Their Language for Our Treesby Darren Alexander

“History is important. If you don’t know history it is as if you were born yesterday. And if you were born yesterday, anybody up there in a position of power can tell you anything, and you have no way of checking up on it.” ― Howard Zinn

This was meant to be an article about the current crisis facing the Central Walbran Valley, where Vancouver Island’s last remaining old-growth rainforest stands are being selfishly, savagely clear-cut and heli-logged by Teal Cedar Corporation. But then this headline showed up in the news:

“Final agreement reached to protect BC’s Great Bear Rainforest”. (Globe & Mail, Monday, February 1. 2016)

The story outlined how a consortium of NGOs and First Nations have together struck “a victory” after about fifteen years of difficult negotiation with the government and logging industry in an effort to conserve this special territory along BC’s mainland coast. And how they were modeling a way forward for similar forestry issues. I truly want to believe. So I read the details, because that is, after all, where the devil lives. Sadly, it’s like déjà vu all over again—and I am reminded how history does foolishly repeat itself.

One could argue that the contemporary model and strategy of BC’s environmental movement to impede large-scale, corporate-driven destruction of our rainforests (under the auspices of legitimate and sanctioned “resource extraction”) was fomented in the late 80s when a group of dedicated activists combined forces with Western Canada Wilderness Committee in their effort to save the Carmanah Walbran (our backyard on Vancouver Island) from being deforested. This momentous effort, in turn, precipitated the great environmental stand-off of lore in Clayoquot Sound (1993) that signalled a global milestone in the environmental movement’s efforts to curtail the worst of deforestation practices.

Some smart strategies back then (namely focusing on the consumer marketplace for which the lumber was destined) brought the forestry companies “to the table”, as they say. Parks were named and some few watersheds were saved. But for all the best intentions of the assembly working to save the forest, (local residents, First Nations, Greenpeace, Friends of Clayoquot…) they would simply be inundated in negotiations with the massive multinational logging company MacMillan Bloedel. In retrospect it is easy enough to imagine: you have a passionate gang of environmentalists on the one side, all of differing stripes but brought together by their commitment to save the forest. On the other side: a cabal of highly paid lawyers and negotiators representing both corporate and government interests, intent on squaring a deal that works for them. Who do you think comes out ahead in this scenario?

Negotiations of this nature are lengthy, detailed, demanding, and exhausting. Due to a complex of power and privilege (see “hegemony”) the industrial position always, inevitably, by default, establishes the parameters (frames the negotiations) and then proceeds to set and define the terms. They finance a strategy (utilizing highly paid lobbyists, consultants, industry insiders, and of course, lawyers) that will turn the talk away from any question of comprehensive reform (examples of logging practice, or access to territory) and in turn deflect the negotiation--as a deft magician can deflect the audience’s attention--to issues of degrees and augmentation. The “deals” are inevitably parsed with technical details, composed in forestry-driven language, and they always offer some new acronymic elixir that promises

Email: jdfepc@crd.bc.ca

Email: jdfepc@crd.bc.caPhone: 250-642-8105Cell: 250-883-0607

#3-7450 Butler Road Sooke, BC V9Z 1N1

to forever improve forestry practices and accountability.

Example: The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Established in the early 90s as an international standard of forestry accountability, the FSC was and remains a tool of the industry for certification of logging standards. You could say it paved the way for our so-called “working forests”. Since the establishment of FSC, we’ve lost another 50% of what then remained of our old-growth forest on Vancouver Island.

So despite FSC certification, and despite the forestry sector’s alleged strict adherence to “Annual Allowable Cuts” (AAC), we continue to lose these precious last remaining tracts of never-to-be-seen-again ecosystems. Does it come as any surprise to hear that many international watchdogs and NGOs have since denounced the FSC and its member organization for greenwashing?

Another attempt to obfuscate by language: Special Management Zone (SMZ):“…land use planning has resulted in the creation of special management zones where natural, cultural and recreational values take precedence over development. About 14 per cent of the province has been designated for special management – an area of almost 14 million hectares (34 million acres). Special management zones serve an important role in conserving important wildlife habitat and areas with sensitive or significant values.” (From: Protected Areas and Special Management Zones https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hfd/pubs/docs/mr/mr112/page24.pdf)

For those not aware, it’s those same Special Management Zones in the Central Walbran Valley that are currently being clear-cut—we’re talking groves of old-growth, including ancient stands of spruce, firs, hemlocks, and cedars all bordering a magnificent watershed.

Which brings us back to the Great Bear Rainforest. And their latest tool for accountability? Why, it’s Ecosystem-Based Management (EBM): “The system used as the basis for the Great Bear Rainforest agreements is Ecosystem-Based Management (EBM). EBM approaches land conservation by taking into account both human well-being and ecological integrity. This is a model that respects the limits of nature, a model the world is desperately waiting for.” (From Ecosystem-Based Management http://sierraclub.bc.ca/great-bear-rainforest-agreements/)

Now it should be noted that part of the GBR deal approves the cutting and removal of 2.5 million cubic metres of old-growth forest every year for the next ten years. Given that your typical logging truck carries up to 40 cubic metres of log, that figure works out to 62,500 truckloads of old-growth “harvest” to be shipped every year. The approved cutting tracts are punched throughout the vast territory like holes in Swiss cheese. Does that sound to you like the Great Bear Rainforest has been saved? Do you find their latest language convincing?

If not, please consider joining our Sooke-based local grassroots effort to appeal for a moratorium on old-growth

5 March 2016

logging as well as strict, plain-language provisions for sensitive ecosystems. Watch for notices and social media regarding upcoming meet-up opportunities and how to get involved. Or contact: Darren Alexander; darren.g.alexander@gmail.com

About the author: Darren Alexander has played a role in BC’s environmental movement since his work producing communications for the Sierra Club BC office in Victoria back in the 90s, where he supported the launch of the Great Bear Rainforest campaign. These days he prefers to contribute through his ongoing, unpaid, gadfly brand of grassroots activism.

Recommended reading on related issues:Early History of Vancouver Island Land Use:The Great Land Grab (Blog Article) https://dogwoodinitiative.org/blog/the-great-land-grabThe Great Land Grab in Huquminum Territory (PDF)http://www.hulquminum.bc.ca/pubs/HTGRailwayBookSpreads.pdfFor a better understanding of what is happening currently in the Walbran Valley:Interview with FOCW (Friends of Carmanah/Walbran) Organizer Bobby Arbesshttp://friendsofcarmanahwalbran.com/2016/01/05/interview-with-focw-organizer-bobby-arbess-aka-reuben-garbanzo-and-kyla-rose-tremblay/Regarding the GBR deal:The Great Bear Rainforest Agreement: Unfilteredhttp://pacificwild.org/news-and-resources/great-bear-blog/the-great-bear-rainforest-agreement-unfilteredThis is the closest thing to an official document outlining the GBR deal that has been made public.https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/TASB/SLRP/LRMP/Nanaimo/CLUDI/GBR/Orders/GBR_LUO_Signed_29Jan2016.pdf

• local food for local people •Dinner Tuesday to Saturday 5-9pm

1831 Maple Avenue • Sooke, BC • 250.642.3596 • wildmountaindinners.com

6 March 2016

Wetlands: lands that are wetby Sandy McAndrews

Adapted from a presentation given to the Seagirt Ponds Society (November 2015)

Whether we realize it or not, most of us have experience with land that is wet. It might be those chronically damp low spots that always make our feet wet, even if we can’t really see the water. It might be the water body in the pasture that’s always full of cattails or the “puddle” filled with waterfowl in the spring. It might be the immense stretch of shallow water with plants that don’t grow anywhere else. If you’ve spent time in northern Canada or in the mountains, you’ve seen a damp (or wet) area filled with mosses and short woody plants. And those are just lands affected by fresh water retention. There are lands periodically saturated with salt water, along estuaries and coastlines. And if you’ve been lucky enough to visit the lushness of a coastal mangrove swamp in the tropics or seen the rice paddies in Asia you were looking at other versions of land that is wet.

The main difference between ‘lands that are wet’ and other water bodies like ponds and lakes is their wildly fluctuating water levels. In a drought period, those lands will be significantly smaller or be completely dry. In wet periods, the opposite will occur. This fluctuation led to the perception that what we now call wetlands were lands with a drainage problem. Their chronic tendency to be periodically and sometimes unpredictably wet make them problematic for growing crops, maintaining roads, building houses and so on. Consequently, over the last 200 years or so, most of the earth’s wetlands have been drained and/or filled to become more “useful” land based systems. It is estimated that since 1700, 87% of wetlands have disappeared world-wide1.

About 60 years ago, we started to become aware that these transitional ecosystems had enormous value to human well-being. And we know now that the dynamics of wetland function provide we humans with a myriad of essential services: improved water quality and aquatic habitat, flood mitigation, water supply regulation, food supply, erosion prevention, downstream water quality and habitat protection, mitigation of climate change effects and recreational opportunities.

Now we know these fluctuating “lands that are wet’ are a separate system - neither wet, aquatic systems nor dry, terrestrial systems but transitional between the two. Although they vary tremendously in size, shape and location, all these different types of wet lands have a few characteristics in common: they all connect aquatic (water-based ecosystems) to terrestrial (land based systems); they are shallow (less than 6 m deep); their water levels fluctuate seasonally and from year to year; they have poorly drained soils and the plants and animals that live there rely on the variability in water levels to live out their life cycles. The unifying concept here is water and water’s effect on soil, plants and biological activity. Water sources in wetlands predominantly come from water flowing over land from precipitation, surface flows (from rivers and lakes) and tidal flooding. Wetlands are often in close proximity to ground water, which is why soils are poorly drained. Source: R.K. Cox and J. Cuddington (2009). Wetland Ways:

Interim Guidelines for Wetland Protection and Conservation in British Columbia, Produced for the Government of British Columbia, Environmental Stewardship Division. p. I-7. Retrieved November 2015 from http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/bmp/wetlandways2009/wetlandways_docintro.html

7 March 2016

The enclosed diagram titled A Typical Wetland above provides a visual guide to the dynamic of water wetting the land. The diagram depicts three connected zones: upland, riparian and aquatic. Colour variation indicates the transitional or fluctuating nature of the aquatic zone and the hyrdrophytic (water loving) plants that live in the aquatic zone. .

The degree of water level fluctuation results in various types of wetlands. We humans have given them different names so we can identify them as different. Because of their variability, it’s no surprise there are a huge number of different wetland classifications - we would need a separate article to discuss just a few of them. Some of the ones we see here in the Juan de Fuca are the swamp just off the Copper Mine Trail in East Sooke Park, and man-made Seagirt Pond on East Sooke Road, which has evolved over the decades to have all the qualities of a shallow open water wetland. There are bogs (muskeg) in the Sooke Hills, towards Port Renfrew and in East Sooke Regional Park and saltwater marshes at the delta of Sooke River and Sooke Basin. And don’t forget to take a minute to enjoy the diversity and connectivity they represent when you get the chance.

Lower Seagirt Pond. Some wetlands have multiple zones with different wetland characteristics. The edge of lower Seagirt Pond has plants characteristic of a marsh: sedges, and grasses are dominant. Towards the centre of the pond, hydrophytic (water loving) species like spatterdock (Nuphar polysepalum ) and floating-leaved pondweed (Potamageton nutans), indicators of a shallow open water wetland,

dominate. Seagirt Pond lacks cat tails and bulrushes, species indicative of a marsh. Source: S. McAndrews

References:1 Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (2014). Wetlands: Why should I care? Retrieved January 2016 from http://www.ramsar.org/sites/default/files/documents/library/factsheet1_why_should_i_care_0.pdf

8 March 2016

Calendar of Events for ShirleyUnless otherwise indicated, events are held at the Shirley Community Hall

Shirley Fire DepartmentPractices held Thursdays7:00 – 9:00 p.m.To volunteer – 250-646-2107

PilatesSaturdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m.info@sandrasmithyoga.com250-646-2651

Yoga Tuesdays 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.Fridays 10:00 -11:00 a.m.

Nia Dance/Movement Thursdays, 6:30- 7:45 p.m. Sundays 11:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. movingmelody@gmail.comor 250-646-2995

Shirley Quilters and CraftersThursdays, 10:30 a.m.

KarateMondays, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.Armin: asielopp@telus.net

Shirley Women’s Institute 2nd Wed of the month,10:30 a.m.stephaniecroft@hotmail.com

Shirley Fire Commission Meeting3rd Mon of the month, 7:00 p.m.in the Fire Hall

Kids After School Drop InTuesdays, 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.kellywilliams@yahoo.ca

Shirley Community Association Annual General MeetingWednesday, March 9, 2016, 7:30 pm

Spring Craft FairSunday, March 13, 201610:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.marydunn@shaw.ca

Respect is Yoga’s Golden Ruleby Elizabeth Tse

Many people know me for the delicious chocolate avocado truffles I create and bring to local markets each summer, but how many know I am also a certified yoga teacher specializing in kids, family and community yoga? Living my dream life here in Shirley, I am on a personal mission to share my passion of yoga and creative movement with my new community. What makes my approach unique is the sharing of personal stories to connect, inspire and empower others to live their own life with purpose and meaning. I reach out to my students by teaching them in a style that meets them where they are at and how they are feeling energetically. In yoga, my golden rule is respect, and that can mean anything from respecting each other, within ourselves, the importance of space, and quiet time. It’s about letting go and finding different ways of connecting with ourselves and our peers. What we co-create in class is magic! Classes are now being taught at the local Shirley Community Hall, 2795 Sheringham Point Road. Below is a brief outline of the classes offered. You can also connect with me by e-mail at bloomingyoga4kids@gmail.com or leave a message at 778-528-2602. Story Yoga for Toddlers - Ages 3 - 5 Monday 9am-9:45am | $8/class This is a wonderful way for little yogis to be introduced to many fun animal postures. Through storytelling and simple games, we create a flow of poses to stretch our bodies and dance into creative movement that will help little ones recognise when they need to ROAR like a lion or be as QUIET as a mouse. Gentle Community Yoga for Women, Pre-natal and post partum new mothers. Monday 10-11am | $10/class This is a special gathering for women to come and practice some gentle yoga together while helping to hold space for expectant mothers and new mothers with their babies too! We will be focusing on gentle breathing, movement and flow of the body that can strengthen our muscles to help with posture, balance and focus. These same poses can be modified for pregnant mums to help gain confidence, as well as tools for coping with labour and also helping new post-partum mothers gain strength as their body heals from birthing.

9 March 2016

After-school Yoga Program - Kids ages 7+, Tweens and Teens! Wednesday 4pm-5:45pm | $20/class This is a 1hr 45 min program where kids can be dropped off to the Shirley Community Hall by the school bus and join us in a unique yoga program. Yoga helps build community, teamwork, self-esteem and more through fun games, yoga journeys, concepts like Oneness and Kindness, Circus yoga including balancing and simple juggling. Healthy and simple snacks will also be provided. Ecstatic Yoga Dance Rave Saturday 7:30-8:30pm $10/class Ecstatic Yoga Dance is a mash up of creative flow movements with powerful breath-work to release stress, tension, fear and anxiety allowing our bodies to find their own rhythm, to a place of letting go. I will be leading a fun but powerful class to some epic dance tunes. Kids Yoga - Ages 6-12 Sunday 1:30pm-2:30pm | $10/class This is a super fun and ENERGETIC class for kids! We will learn fun techniques for practicing yoga postures through games, storytelling, acrobatics and partner yoga. We will also learn how to slow down as kids and find creative ways to harness that space and energy for relaxation.

Family Yoga - All ages welcome! Sunday 3-4pm | $18/class (Cost is for 1 adult and 1 child, additional person - $6) This is a special yoga class for kids and their parents to participate together. We will be focusing on many yoga games that include partner work, team-building and creating self-care rituals….a perfect way for families to connect with each other!

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

10 March 2016

A Far Out Adventure in Jordan Riverby Josh Lambert

At the end of July 2015, Far Out Pizza and the adjoining Wave Gallery opened for business in Jordan River. The journey to opening was full of surprises. It’s been one of our greatest adventures, and a story we love to share.

The story starts back in 1988, when my dad discovered the surf break at Jordan River and deemed the area a suitable place for our family to emigrate to. Fast forward 27 years, and after decades of living, surfing, and exploring in this region, we came across an empty restaurant for sale - a perfect opportunity to fulfill a photographer’s dream of opening a gallery.

To top it off, some of my fondest memories from my late teens are of working long shifts in pizza places from Sooke to Victoria; my first foray into computer programming was to write a web app that calculated all the costs and finances of a pizza shop. So, with two photographers on the team, one experienced pizza enthusiast, and one surfer, the three of us (my dad, myself, and good-as family member Mary who first spotted the place) hatched the grand plan of a surf-front pizzeria-gallery.

Full of excitement and plans, we took the leap and bought the property. And that’s when things got unexpectedly weird. About a week and a half later, some folks from BC Hydro knocked on

the door to tell us that they needed to purchase and demolish the town of Jordan River. They told us that Jordan River lies below a hydro-electric dam that sits on a seismic fault line, making it too great a risk to have people living below.

Suddenly, our dream went out the window, and we were left hanging. We hadn’t received a purchase offer from Hydro, so we were unsure whether to push ahead with our now-doomed business plan and spend our scraped together start-up savings, or just wait and hope that the offer, when it came, would be reasonable. We concluded that it was our responsibility having been made aware of the situation, to not incur additional costs. So we put our renovations on hold and we waited.

Several months later, still no offer. Months of mortgage and insurance payments were eating away at our savings, and with the summer season approaching fast and no other option, we decided to try and open anyway. So we rolled up our sleeves, scrounged leftover wood and buckets of paint from the basement, and got to work. The next few months felt like we were living in one of those montage scenes in a movie.

One day in late July, we figured it was renovated “enough”, held our breath and switched on the open sign. We made some experimental pizzas and tried to give them away, but right away were inundated with customers who insisted on paying.

Since then we’ve been enjoying feeding people, receiving wonderful compliments on our food, and learning as we go. We’re so happy to share this beautiful spot with our neighbours at the Cold Shoulder Cafe, and to have such welcoming fellow businesses in the area such as Point-no-Point and Shirley Delicious who have been encouraging and friendly from the get-go (Phil even has a signature pizza with bananas as a topping - he claims this is “a South African thing”). Without question, the most enjoyable part has been all the new friends we’ve made - neighbours, pizza addicts, dedicated surfers, our much loved regulars, and of course our truly wonderful, hard-working team. We still don’t know for sure what the future holds, but you’ve made it all worthwhile. Josh Lambert, Mary E. Coakely & Matthew Lambert

11 March 2016

Notes From The Juan de Fuca Community Trails Society The Matterhorn Trail in Shirley is closed from December 15, 2015 to June 1, 2016 due to harvesting. Because of the potential dangers associated with active harvesting, this area is strictly off limits until all harvesting work is complete. Work may be ongoing seven days per week. The Prime Contractor responsible for the worksite safety will be blocking access routes through the site to prevent unauthorized entry. Broom Pull on the Whiffen Spit - Broom is stubborn and recalcitrant stuff. It keeps coming back. The Juan de Fuca Community Trails Society and the District of Sooke have been combating it on the Whiffen Spit since 2007. I am happy to report that Indian Plum, Red Flowering Currant and Black Coast Gooseberry can be seen. This year we are joined by the Greater Victoria Green Team for our 2015 pulls. The broom is early this year and so are our work parties. These will take place on Wednesday April 8 from 9 a.m. - noon, with students from Edward Milne Community School helping and on Saturday April 11 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. with all comers.

The Juan de Fuca Community Trails Society AGM is March 5, 2015. We are pleased to have Mike Walton, Senior Parks Manager for Regional Parks speaking on the Regional Parks Strategic Plan for 2012-2021.

Serving the incredible west coast of Vancouver Island from Sooke to Port Renfrew.

• Site Servicing • Driveway Building• Residential Building• Land Clearing & Landscaping• Supply & Delivery (Rock, Gravel, Sand & Topsoil)

Your Rural Voice in the Legislature#122–2806 Jacklin Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 5A4250-391-2801john.horgan.mla@leg.bc.ca www.johnhorgan.ca

John Horgan MLA Juan de Fuca

JH-RurObs-1506.indd 1 2015-06-03 4:09 PM

12 March 2016

East Sooke Community CalendarUnless otherwise noted all events held in the East Sooke Community Hall 1397 Coppermine Road

Pilates ClassTuesday & Thursday9:30 – 11:00 a.m.Gina:ginatremblay@yahoo.ca250-882-0637

Karate Classes for All AgesTuesday 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.Armin: asielopp@telus.net250-642-3926

Physio Fitness ClassMonday & Wednesday5:00 – 6:30 p.m.Sharon: sherskovits@hotmail.com250-483-7194

Seniors’ Lunches4th Wednesday of monthWatch for notices posted in area

Special programme:East Sooke Books for BreakfastFor preschool aged childrenNew Day of month Last Fridayof month, 10:00 a.m.Stephanie: sookeliteracy@gmail.com

East Sooke Fire Protection &Emergency Services CommissionThird Monday night, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

East Sooke Volunteer FDNew Hall - 6071 East Sooke Rd Fire Practice Thursday nights7:00 – 9:30 p.m. Volunteers WelcomeContact: esvfd.deputychief@gmail.comWebsite: eastsookefire.com

Hatha Yoga ClassesThursday night 7:00 - 8:15 p.m.Instructor: Connie Rose250-889-0753connieroseyoga@gmail.com

Seagirt Ponds Nature Events in East Sookeby Charlotte Senay

In case you have not been fortunate enough to be able to catch one of the Seagirt Ponds Preservation Society Nature Events in the last while, you have missed out on some fascinating moments.

Sandy MacAndrews did a superb presentation on Wetlands. Sandy has an MSc in Ecology and a BSc in Environmental Science, is a professional agriculturist who has worked for five years in wetland assessment and vegetation ecology and spent ten years doing research on Canadian sustainability issues. (see Sandy’s article in this issue of the Rural Observer.)

Fred Roots did another wonderful talk. It was titled, The Geological History of JDF Strait & Seagirt Ponds. Fred is a geologist and engineer who was instrumental in establishing the Canadian Ministry of Environment, has worked with the UN, and continues active work taking international students to the Arctic.

And thanks go to Gloria Snively for her excellent presentation entitled, Exploring the Seashore. Gloria is Professor Emeritus at UVic where she taught science, marine/environmental & cultural education.

These were stellar presenters and evenings for both the person who knows nothing and the very educated. And, it continues! Upcoming are the following presentations: Bat & Bird House - Working EventMarch Date TBA (check website: seagirtponds.com) Plants of Coastal BCTuesday, April 5, 7:00 pm (same location) Power-point by Andy MacKinnon who is co-author of the field guide ‘Plants of Coastal British Columbia’ and has a long and distinguished career in forest ecology and ecosystem-based management research for BC Forest Service. Be sure to check the website, for more information, and check before attending in case there are any changes. These events are free of charge and open to all interested East Sooke residents. Not to be missed!

13 March 2016

Do you ever get that overwhelming and exhilarating feeling, when the natural world feels so magnificent, as though it is a part of you? For Louise Paterson, nature has been a key part of her life since the very beginning. Louise and her family are committed to protecting their property on Beecher Bay, in East Sooke, which boasts second growth forest, rocky bluffs, riparian zones, shoreline, and nesting habitat. Their vision is to connect it to East Sooke Park, creating a corridor for wildlife.

In a recent interview, Louise described the plethora of wildlife in East Sooke and recalled many memorable encounters from her childhood and from her 10-year span as park warden there, including watching river otters come into the forest to have their pups.

She has spent most of her life documenting East Sooke’s wildlife and flora with photography and written journals. In my interview with her, she recalled observing an elephant seal haul-out on the shore, nesting trees for Great-horned Owls and eagles near the home where she grew up, needle fish spawning in the bay, a diverse collection of amphibians including the now endangered red-legged frog, and blossoming pockets of the beautiful paintbrush flower. She spoke of the natural abundance on the property, and described collecting berries with her family: “We did a lot of canning for winter. We went out in the woods and picked wild berries, salal, soopolallie. The salal made jelly, and soopolallie berries became a prized dessert popular to us as a treat, something like ice cream.”

The family’s cultural connection to the land is something they have devoted to protect as well. There is a tremendous amount of archaeological value with numerous indigenous features that date back 3000 years, all of which are now protected through a covenant with the Archeology Branch of BC. Now, HAT is helping to complete Louise’s legacy by ensuring that the ecological values of the land

are permanently protected with a conservation covenant. Louise explained why she chose HAT and her passion for conservation: “I believe HAT is the credible land trust in the region that I can rely on. HAT has their heart and soul in saving these spaces, and you’ve got to save them whether it is a nature trail or protected area. Our animals are being stressed by development and we need to do our part.”

Thanks to a generous donation of $5,000 from the Victoria Natural History Society toward the protection of Louise’s property on Beecher Bay, we are hopeful to see this land registered for permanent protection this year. And, did you know that this property is one of four properties currently in the process of obtaining permanent protection through HAT?

The Land Protection Team has grown as well, thanks to a generous contribution from the Davis Family Fund. With more inquiries of land protection coming to HAT than ever before, we are working hard to protect these ecologically significant properties with passionate landowners like Louise. As conservation science advances, the land trust is committed to staying connected with the best practices of land protection. These pieces of land are protected for you, for your community, for future generations, and especially for species that are in need of safe and secure habitats.

Your support helps protect important spaces like this one. You can leave a legacy with a gift that creates space for nature right now, and protects it forever – make it your gift to the green spaces you admire.

About HAT - Habitat Acquisition Trust is a non-profit regional land trust and registered charity that conserves nature on south Vancouver Island. HAT works towards conservation through habitat stewardship, land protection, and community engagement. HAT accepts donations for all programs including our land protection program – for more info visit hat.bc.ca/donate, or contact Alanah Nasadyk, Community & Development Coordinator, at 250-995-2428 or email alanah@hat.bc.ca

Connected to Land: Protected Forever – Louise’s Story by Alanah Nasadyk

14 March 2016

Farmers’ markets have been popping up in every community across the island and around BC the last few years. Country markets, neighbourhood markets, pocket markets, whatever the name, they represent the diversity and wealth of each unique community’s bounty. Produce, plants, baking, canning, art, crafts, cosmetics, wine, meat, entertainment – there is almost no limit to what you can find at a market. Markets also strengthen and support the local economy and the overall health of a community. Want a unique and lively meeting place for friends to share news and ideas? How about a safe and relaxing place to take the family to shop and listen to live music? Sooke Country Market is the place to be.

So, has the thought ever crossed your mind, “Gee, I wonder if I could sell my … at the market?” Well, that is exactly the question I asked my self before joining the Sooke Country

Market 8 years ago. Market vendors become part of a dynamic team dedicated to locally produced products and supporting each other’s success. Weekly seasonal markets provide a consistent venue for customers, and a regular income for any vendor with motivation and a passion for their product. Starting anything new can be intimidating and fraught with questions. I’ll try to answer some of those questions and encourage you to pursue your idea by applying to a local market near you. Each market is slightly different so check out sookecountrymarket.com for all our market details.

How do I know if I can sell at the market?If you make it, bake it, grow it, or provide a service yourself, you are likely eligible to be a market vendor. Preference is given to Sooke region vendors and products must be produced locally. Home-based business are eligible to vend.

Farmers’ Markets – The Place To Be This Spring by Sheila Wallace

15 March 2016

If you have not visited The Stick then you have only been living half a life.Three locations of absolute wonder!

www.stickinthemud.ca

The Stick in the Mud6715 Eustace RoadM-F 6-5 S&S 7:30-5

SpeedStick6711 Eustace Road7 days 8:45-1

The New BranchIn the lobby of The

Prestige Hotel

Open seasonally.

New this year, business storefronts may be able to promote their business and share details about their services at the market as well. See the website for details.

When is the market?Every Saturday 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. from May to early October.

I can’t come every week – is that okay?Yes! Our market is excited to have new vendors even if they can only come a few times. You can set your schedule with the Market Manager in advance to make sure we have a spot for you. In the beginning you may not have a huge inventory to sell, but come anyway and get a feel for your customers. They are so supportive and inspiring – it is amazing what you will learn.

What does it cost and can I share a table?The first step is to become a member of the Sooke Country Market (30.00). Then you pay a daily fee each time you vend. Daily fee - $15.00, Daily fee shared table - $7.50 per individual (max. 2 people) We want you to have a fun and supported experience when you are starting out, so sharing can help to make you feel more comfortable. Once your business takes off, you may be ready to fly solo!

Can my children vend?Yes, we love having children at the market and encourage their entrepreneurial spirit. Children must be the producers of their items for sale. Daily fee for vendors under 12 years of age - $2.00. Daily fee for vendors 12 – 19 years of age - $5.00

I’d like to give it a try – what do I do now?A Board of Directors and a volunteer Market Manager coordinate the Sooke Country Market Society. All new vendors complete an application form, which is reviewed by the manager and 2 board members. It’s easy… Go to sookecountrymarket.com and review the market guidelines. Fill out a vendor application and submit. Once your application has been reviewed, the Market Manager will call to give you the details and set up your schedule for your market season!!

What about performance artists and non-profit groups?Fantastic! We love to have entertainment at the market. Each week there is also a spot available for community groups and non-profits to promote and demonstrate their important work.

Check sookecountrymarket.com for details and send us your application.

We believe everyone in a community has something to contribute to a local market, whichever side of the table you are on. Be part of the growing market movement and join us for an unbeatable Saturday morning experience at the Sooke Country Market, starting May 7!

Other seasonal local markets in the Sooke Region:Shirley Country Market, (Sundays) shirleymarket@gmail.com Thursday Night Market http://www.sookeregionmuseum.ca/ Ragley Farm Market in East Sooke (Saturdays) http://www.ragley.ca

16 March 2016

Awareness Film NightChange and thought-provoking films.

Screened monthly from October thru May. Available every day at the lending library

in A Sea of Bloom.

Details / Current Film: awarenessfilmnight.ca

From the desk of John Horgan, MLA Juan de Fuca

We Deserve a Government That Puts People First.

By-elections are an opportunity to send the sitting government a message. Earlier this month ultra-urban Vancouver Mt Pleasant and suburban Coquitlam Burke

Mountain sent a message by electing two woman new to politics. A long held government constituency, suburban Coquitlam elected Jody Wickens who campaigned on the lack of services to match the rapid growth in her community. Transit, education and affordability were the dominant issues. In Mt. Pleasant, Melanie Mark became the first First Nation woman to be elected to the BC Legislature. The issues in the downtown east side are not unlike those in rural and suburban BC. Of course, the need for mental health and addiction services are more obvious in the heart of our largest city, but families also struggle with rising costs and a lack of investment in education and training. As we begin the spring session of the BC Legislature, I look forward to working with the newest MLAs.

Last month, I joined the thousands of British Columbians celebrating Lunar New Year and with them, welcomed change and new ideas. I’m an optimist by nature. I look to the future and think about how this province can be better for everyone.

Take health care. Every day thousands of people in this province are forced to choose between filling a prescription and buying the groceries that they and their families need. It is good news that the federal government has expressed a willingness to engage with all provinces on a national Pharmacare strategy. Much more needs to be done to make prescription drugs are affordable for all British Columbians. British Columbia should be advocating for a national Pharmacare program instead of being satisfied with half measures.

Many British Columbians are also struggling to find doctors, and driving long distances to get to ERs when medical emergencies strike. The health care system in this province is letting them down, and there is only so much the support of family and friends can do to make up for that. Government has a role to play, and right now, our health care system leaves people behind. That’s not good enough. We have so much potential in BC, and I know we can do better.

For the majority of British Columbians, life in this province just keeps getting harder. Adding to the burden of rising food costs and housing costs, British Columbians are faced with rising MSP premiums, ICBC rates, ferry fares, and hydro rates.

This could be a province where everyone has an opportunity to get ahead. I am motivated every day by the energy, purpose and determination of British Columbians, and those same qualities inspire my vision of where this province should go.

We deserve and need a government that is there for us on the things that really matter. Government should make the success of residents a priority. The opportunity to learn, contribute, and fulfill our potential should be there for every British Columbian. I will continue to work to ensure that life in our province is affordable for families and individuals and that we have a government that puts people first.

John Horgan, MLAJuan de Fuca250-391-2801John.Horgan.MLA@leg.bc.ca

March 201617

Young Writers Wanted

The Rural Observer is seeking young writers (elementary and high school age)!We want to hear about any rural experiences you would like to tell us about.

In early January, we asked the teachers at Journey Middle School and Edward Milne to let you know that we would love to publish writing/poetry/anything that you would like to send to us. We realize that there are students who are home schooled or attend other schools in the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area, so we are also writing this note in the hope that it reaches you. We think you might have some interesting thoughts about what you have seen or felt growing up in the ‘country’.

Please send your writing to submissions@ruralobserver.com.

RURAL OBSERVER 2016 PUBLICATION

SCHEDULE

May 5, June 30, Sept 29, Dec 1

March 201618

From the desk of Mike Hicks, JdF Regional Director

The Commission meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month at 3pm, Juan de Fuca Local Area Services Building

#3 – 7450 Butler Road, Otter Point, BCPublic Welcome to Attend

For meeting confirmation or enquiries, please call 250.642.1500.

Juan de Fuca Electoral Area Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission

SEAPARC has made an offer to purchase the 23 acre DeMamiel Creek Golf Course subject to a referendum to be held on April 30 for the Juan de Fuca and Sooke residents. Current playing fields and SEAPARC facilities are operating at full capacity and we

have an opportunity to purchase the adjacent cleared and relatively level lands neighbouring SEAPARC. Although this does not affect the JDF taxpayers of Willis Point and Malahat, I hope this detailed explanation will help the residents of Port Renfrew, Shirley, Jordan River, Otter Point and East Sooke make their decision.

This acquisition is a long term investment, which will satisfy the land requirements for all future outdoor recreational projects. It will not result in a tax increase for Sooke or JDF residents, and SEAPARC will spend the next two months communicating the plan. In addition to public meetings, residents may access information at www.crd.bc.ca/seaparc or e-mail SEAPARC Manager Steve Knoke sknoke@crd.bc.ca or SEAPARC Chair Mike Hicks at directorjdf@crd.bc.ca with any questions.

Here is the plan:

SEAPARC is a partnership between the District of Sooke and the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area, serving residents from East Sooke to Port Renfrew. The annual budget to operate and maintain the pool, ice arena, bike park, skate board park and Stan Jones field is approximately $3.6 million dollars of which $1 million is derived from user fees and $2.6 million is requisitioned from the taxpayers via property taxes. The taxes are apportioned between the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area and District of Sooke based on population resulting in a 75% Sooke / 25% JDF split.

The annual $3.6 million is apportioned between Operating and Capital Reserve. $3.1 million is used for Operating wages, repairs and maintenance and utilities and $500,000 in Capital Reserves is used for equipment replacement, building improvements, vehicle replacements, signage, major repairs, land purchase and building additions. An average payment of $378,000 was paid to service the $4.4 million dollar pool

debt established in year 1998. At this time, SEAPARC has no debt, $1 million in the Capital Reserve fund and an annual requisition of $500,000 towards the fund. In anticipation of the debt retirement, SEAPARC commissioned a strategic plan to identify the recreational needs and desires of the community. The process, involving staff, commission and community consultation, recommended the short term strategy of adding a 4000 square foot weight/activity /exercise room and a long term strategy of purchasing additional land for future recreational needs.

The SEAPARC Commission has decided to maintain the tax requisition at the present level in order to build the weight/activity/exercise room addition and purchase the 23 acre former golf course adjacent to SEAPARC. The land would be financed over 15 years, and it is hoped the activity room expansion would be built in the next three years. SEAPARC is forecasting that the present tax rate would be sufficient to fund the purchase and there would be no tax increase necessary to fund these two projects. It is also planned that the requisition would be re-examined after completion of the addition.

The owners of DeMamiel Creek Golf Course have accepted a $1 million dollar offer from SEAPARC subject to a referendum. Although the Commission, in the short term, will consider contracting-out the golf course operation on a break-even basis, the intermediate and long term vision is for future recreational fields for the expanding Sooke and Juan de Fuca population.

Currently, Juan de Fuca residents have a mill rate of .498 and Sooke .878. SEAPARC will be borrowing $750,000 at 3% interest, amortized over 15 years.The annual payment of $61,000 will result in a cost of $4.80 each year for a home valued at $400,000 in the JDF and the annual cost of $8.40 for the same valued home in Sooke. The $61,000 would be allocated from the Capital Reserve Fund with the remaining $439,000 dedicated to funding the capital replacement items and expansion. There would not be an increase in the overall annual tax rate required to fund the land acquisition. The SEAPARC Commission fully appreciates that property taxes are high and have done all they can over the past few years to manage SEAPARC in a frugal, efficient manner. They also realize that the adjacent property could supply all the field requirements for the next 100 years.

80 years ago the Sooke Community Association had the foresight to purchase land for the recreational needs of Sooke and JDF residents. We have the opportunity to add to their legacy, and through the upcoming referendum, planned for April 30, 2016, Sooke and the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area electorate will voice their opinion on this important decision. The Commission is hopeful that residents will recognize the value of this undertaking and support obtaining this key property for future generations.

A Sea of Bloom p.17 250-642-3952

Alice McLean Pottery p.12 250-642-3522

Aristos Mail Tech Inc. p.2 250-384-7678

Axel Joosting Web Design & Consulting p.2 250-642-4773

Awareness Film Night p.16 awarenessfilmnight.ca

Cleardesk Computer Services p.8 778-747-3335

Custom Digging p.11 250-413-7685

Digital Direct Printing Ltd. p.2 250-388-7082

Dom’s Water Service p.10 250-646-2528

Dr. Morin & Dr. Joslin Optometrists p.9 250-642-4311

Due Respect Companion Care p.17 778-528-2299

Far Out Pizza p.10 250-646-2982

Felix Irwin - Chartered Accountant p.7 250-642-5277

Forest Lumber Cooperage p.16 250-642-4899

Fossil Bay Resort p.10 250-646-2073

Honestly Tea p.17 250-646-2425

Hugh Gregory Fine Painting p.9 250-480-8295

JdF Emergency Program p.4 250-642-8105

JdF Parks and Recreation p.18 250-642-1500

Jo Phillips - Reg. Nutritional Consultant p.6 250-642-6635

John Horgan - MLA, JdF p.11 250-391-2801

Jordan River Gravel p.11 250-646-2929

Juan de Fuca Veterinary Clinic p.15 250-478-0422

Kimmel Massage Therapist p.9 250-646-2865

Marlene Barry - Reflexologist p.7 250-884-9955

Noella LeDrew, Graphic & Web Design p.19 778-352-2070

Numa Farms p.4 250-474-6005

Pure Life Mini Excavating & Trucking p.14 250-896-1421

Race Rocks Automotive p.11 250-478-1920

Reflexology 4 You p.7 250-884-9955

Rural Observer - Advertising pp.2,19 778-528-2299

Salish Sea Technologies p.19 778-425-1994

Sheringham Point Lighthouse Pres. Soc. p.20 250-646-2528

Shirley Delicious Cafe p.14 778-528-2888

Sooke Fax & Copy Centre p.7 250-642-3231

Sooke Veterinary Hospital p.2 250-642-4413

Spanish For All Occasions! p.7 778-528-2299

Take Of The Whale p.13 250-642-6161

The Stick In The Mud Cafe p.15 250-642-5635

Viridian Energy Co-operative p.17 1-888-386-0116

Vivi Curutchet, Architectural Drawings p,9 778-528-2299

Walk, Sit & Stay - Dog Walking p.13 250-642-0458

Westside InstaPrint p.14 250-478-5533

Wild Mountain Restaurant p.5 250-642-3596

WorkLink p.16 250-642-3685

Zig Reder Renovations p.15 250-642-7881

March 201619

FREEINFORMATION FOR THE ASKINGOur advertisers are happy to provide any information about their products or services. Please feel free to use the phone numbers below to contact them directly.

Vivi CurutchetAdvertising Sales

Ph: (250) 642-1714Email: advertise@ruralobserver.com

Vivi CurutchetAdvertising Sales

Phone: 778-528-2299Email: advertise@ruralobserver.com

March 201620

You’re Invited!

Dedication Ceremony

for Sheringham Lighthouse

&

Unveiling of Official Canadian

Heritage Lighthouse Plaque

March 20, 2016 - 1:00 p.m.

at the Lighthouse *

Community Reception/Celebration

to follow

Slide Presentation

Refreshments by Shirley Delicious

Lighthouse books, commemorative

t-shirts & caps will be available.

2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Shirley Community Hall

*Limited parking at the lighthouse site.

Shuttle transportation will be available to

and from the community hall beginning at

12:30 p.m.

Help us celebrate acquisition of

the Lighthouse, Canadian Heritage

Designation AND a new passive park

for the community. AT LAST!!

SheringhamLighthouse.org

JOIN US ON

Canadian

Heritage

Site