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Letters Fire victims appreciate community support What a wonderful and supportive community we live in. We had a house fire in early December and the support that we received from this community as well as family, friends, neighbours and colleagues has been amazing and overwhelming. Huge thanks to the staff, parents and students at NCI for their generosity and support. And of course the North Oyster, Ladysmith, Cranberry and North Cedar Fire Halls and their firefighters. Those volunteers worked so hard and so long to put that fire out. Thanks to their efforts we were able to salvage some precious family photos as well as some documents that would have been very difficult to replace. It is difficult to express how much gratitude we have for all we have received. We feel truly blessed by the generosity of this community! - Genevieve, Hannah and Evan LeDuc and Rob Noseworthy
Mediterranean look not needed Our area G director has decided that Saltair needs to become a community with a Mediterranean look. In my opinion, it would be far more beneficial to residents if some money and planning be directed to our safety rather than to aesthetics. Along Chemainus Road, from the new bridge to north of the school in Chemainus, there are street lights as well as some sidewalks. From the Sunny Saltair sign at the South end of Saltair, to the same sign at the North end, there are neither, street lights or sidewalks! The shoulders of the road itself are erratic and at times dangerous. For those of us who wish to walk, some with the aid of a walker, others with the assistance of a scooter it is a very hazardous undertaking. The east side of the road has no provision for drainage, and as a result, during the heavy winter rains, my basement has been flooded several times at a cost of more than $20,000.00 each time. I am now unable to purchase flood insurance. I am a regular user of Centennial Park. The only part of the park that sees regular usage is the tennis courts. During the summer, for a couple of months there are a few baseball tournaments and from time to time picnics. To this user, our parks appear to be a cash cow for wild ideas. Why on earth would we want to use our parks to copy Mediterranean themes? This
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is Canada. The only thing our parks need are facilities for the residents, not make work projects. It is time to tighten the purse strings. The purchase of the school is obscene! The same $300,000.00 used for its purchase would have done wonders for our miserable, unlit road. In the 21 years I have lived in my home, I have yet to see a single improvement. It is time to reduce the unconscionable salaries paid to multiple managers, and at the same time merge the myriad of redundant departments. - Betty Douglas, Saltair.
Dear Santa: Once again you created a magical morning for hundreds of people at the North Oyster and Area Historical Society’s Santa’s breakfast this year. Your elves were busy throughout the hall, cooking up a tasty meal, decorating cookies, face and nail painting, crafting, and providing lots of games and prizes. And the best of all was the time you were able to spend with each child, asking them what they’d like for Christmas and having your picture taken with them. Special thanks to you for making this day so special for every person there. Our raffle winners were A. Crossley, Pam Ahl, Maureen Pietrykowski, Lorraine Gould, Ralph Jones, Erica DeFrane, Jack Hembroff, David Sandolo, and Cheryl Haldane. Hoping you all had a very Merry Christmas – Sue Benoit, Director for North Oyster and Area Historical Society (NOAHS).
Letters to the editor are welcome but subject to space and editing. Multiple submissions will not be considered. Include name, address and phone for verification. Letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of TAKE 5, advertisers or contributors. Email editor@take5.ca. or submit at www.take5.ca. Facebook.com/take5publications
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of $462,000 in financial awards to 372 high school students to help them pursue their dream of post-secondary education. Awards ranged from $100 to $5,000 each. Anyone interested in supporting the awards fund is encouraged to contact Dennison at 250-753-4074. The 2015 awards booklet and application form are available online at www. NLSF.ca. Application deadline is Friday, Feb. 27, 2015.
Financial awards for graduates Grade 12 graduates are encouraged to apply for financial awards offered by the Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools Foundation. “The Foundation, through the generous support from our many donors, is able to assist local students with the expense of higher education,” said Crystal Dennison, executive director of NanaimoLadysmith Schools Foundation (NLSF). “There are many scholarships, bursaries and awards available to high school graduates who are active in the community, excel in sports, are interested in pursuing specific areas of study, or who have a financial need. We encourage students to apply for as many as are appropriate for them,” she said. Last June, NLSF distributed a total
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Transfer Beach playground
Ladysmith Eagles Auxiiary President, Angie Fletcher presenting a check to Ladysmith Kinsmen Duck Paterson to help rebuild the playground at Transfer Beach Park. Photo: Debbie Baker
The fundraising for the new playground at Transfer Beach got a boost when the Ladysmith Eagles Auxiliary donated $1,500 to the project. Ladysmith Kinsmen and Rotary are working towards building a new playground. The plans have been completed and the cost is expected to be around $175,000. Other groups are encouraged to get involved, according to Paterson.An example is the Oceanview Community Church which will be holding their 3rd annual Eggs Benefit on Sunday, June 14 with all proceeds going to the new play-
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ground. Eggs benefit will feature over 12 local “celebrities” making omelettes and the entire community is invited to come out. An account has been set up at the Ladysmith Junction Bottle Depot where folks can donate proceeds from their returns. as well an account opened at Ladysmith & District Credit Union for people who wish to make a donation. For more information contact Kinsmen Duck Paterson at 250-245-2263 or Rotarian Joe Friesenhan at 250-245-2646.
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project, please email Allen@ladysmithsearchandrescue@gmail.com.
Islam Uncovered St Mary’s Catholic Parish is hosting a free series of talks on Islam by Fr. Anthony Gonsalves on four Saturdays, March 7-29, from 3:45 pm-4:45 pm. Gonsalves was born and raised in a Muslim-dominated country, became a Franciscan priest and has worked in many Muslim communities prior to coming to Vancouver island, where he is currently based at the Franciscan Friary in Victoria. His topics will cover (March 7) Historical perspective on Islam - where the religion derived and the divisions, (March 14) The four pillars of Islam, (March 21) Living in a Muslim-dominated country, (March 28) The challenges of Christians to live with Muslims.
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Native Plants with Todd Carnahan of Habitat Acquisition Trust, Timing is Everything!, Joy Story of Grow Food Network. Hardy Figs & Unusual Edible Permaculture Trees with Devmurti Khalsa of Figs for Life, and ending with Local Water & Food Security with Laurie Gourlay of Vancouver Island and Coast Conservation Society. Tickets are $15 for all the speakers series or free with a Ladysmith Garden Club membership of $15 available through Salamander Books in Ladysmith. www.LadysmithCommunityGardenSociety.weebly.com
Spring Edible Garden Series
Search and Rescue command centre under way Allen McDermid, president of Ladysmith Search and Rescue is pleased with the group’s latest acquisition -- a 16’ trailer that will be converted into their new Command Centre. Fundraising will begin in February to raise money towards outfitting the trailer with the latest in communication and mapping equipment needed for searches. If you or your organization wishes to donate to this
Spring is coming and now you can be garden ready with the 2015 Spring Speaker Series on Edible Gardening presented with the Ladysmith/Saltair Garden Club, Nanaimo Harbour Lites Lioness Club, Cedar Women’s Institute and Ladysmith Library. The first in the series, Supporting Native Pollinators with Ted Leishner will be hosted by the Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club at the Anglican Church Hall, 314 Buller Street on Feb. 19, at 7 pm. The series continues with Why I Love to Garden!, Janice Peters of Ladysmith Health Food Store, Gardening With
Ladysmith Yacht Club celebrated Robbie Burns Night. The haggis was piped in by Andrew Gibson and addressed by Gerry Yellowlees. Photo: Loyola van Rooyen Buck
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Pianist André Laplante at Port
New book takes flight Carlyle Art at Kiwi Cove Lodge After many years of operating commercial and portrait photography studios Art and Daphne Carlyle of Saltair have turned their attention to digital art and photography. Operating under the signature Carlyle Art, they have been interpreting Vancouver Island in their work since moving here in 2010 from Alberta. Daphne graduated from the photography program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology and has won many awards for her work. Art began his commercial photography career in 1979 and is an advanced Photoshop user. Kiwi Cove Lodge is hosting an art exhibit of their works until March. For more info contact the Carlyles at info@ carlyleart.ca
Are you an Empty Nester? Single or divorced? Are you living alone? Whether you are 30 or 60 it is never too late to step into the fullness of your life, says Ladysmith’s Alana L. Newton in her book Time’s A Wastin’ - Life’s Lessons Realized As An Empty Nester. Newton recently launched her book at the 49th Café to an enthusiastic audience and good reviews. President of Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce and a Certified Executive Coach, Newton has been working in business for over 40 years. She is passionate about helping women achieve their goals and succeed in helping them reach the personal growth they desire. www.alananewton.com Time’s A Wastin’ is available at Amazon or on her website alananewton.com
The Nanaimo Conservatory of Music presents virtuoso André Laplante in this year’s fundraising concert on Sunday March 15, 2015, 2:30 pm at the Port Theatre. “The program will include selections by Schubert and Liszt and is sure to please everyone.” said John Whitelaw, President of the Conservatory. “It is not often that a talent of this magnitude graces the shores of Nanaimo.” André Laplante is an Officer of the Order of Canada, and JUNO Award winner. On the Monday following the concert, Laplante will offer a Masterclass to several high level piano students from the mid-Island area. The public is welcome to observe this event for a donation of $10. Tickets Call 250-754-4611 or online at www.porttheatre.com
Local mining documentary On Sept 16, 1912 the greatest strike ever recorded on Vancouver Island began. And now the story of the Vancouver Island Great Coal Miners Strike is available on DVD from Ladysmith filmmaker Michael Rasberry. “Eight Hours” establishes a foundation for the viewer to sees the forces of Corporation and Government and how their pursuit of profit created a polariza(l-r) Willow Street by Carlyle Art, showing at Kiwi Cove Lodge Alana L. Newton at the launch of Time’s A Wastin’ - Life’s Lessons Realized As An Empty Nester. Photos submitted.
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out the trailer at https://micbery.wordpress.com or email micbery@gmail.com to order a DVD for $19.95.
VI Short Film Festival reels in
tion among mid island communities that grew into solidarity for labour rights, according to Rasberry. “For the viewer to understand why the strike occurred as it did, I needed this documentary to begin at the beginning.” The documentary follows this timeline through to the Vancouver Island Treaties, the forming of Dominion Government, Provincial Government, Municipal Government, the Dunsmuir Sega, E&N Land Grant, to the great strike itself. Check
Fourteen films have been chosen for screening at the 10th annual Vancouver Island Short Film Festival (VISFF). This year the VISFF organizers received 65 films to choose from that thoroughly impressed the selection committee. All of the films will be shown at the VISFF on Feb. 6 and 7 at the Malaspina Theatre on the Nanaimo campus of Vancouver Island University. All screenings will showcase the same 14 films. At the Saturday evening show there will be an awards ceremony for the winning filmmakers. To purchase tickets: visff.com/ tickets or visit the Port Theatre or call 250-754-8550. Ladysmith coal miners charged in the Extension riot of 1913 were paraded through the main street in Ladysmith by military. The Great Coal Miners Strike is the topic of DVD “Eight Hours”. Photo courtesy of Michael Rasberry
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February 1-7 1, 9:30am-11am, Baha’I Childrens classes. 250327-0823 1, 10:30am, St Joseph’s Parish Chemainus: Mass and Pancake breakfast served by Knights of Columbus. 250-246-3191
4, 5pm, Bingo, St. Mary’s Hall, 1135 4th Ave. 4, 6:30pm, Darts, RCL 171, 250-245-2273 5-7, 12 – 4pm, Temptation, 610 Oyster Bay Drive. Tues. to Sun., 250-245-1252 www. ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 5, 9:30am, Line Dancing, RCL 171, 250-245-2273
1, 10am, Carols Craft Market at the North Oyster Com. Center 13467 Cedar Rd. 250-754-8905
5, 11:30am, Soup & Sandwich, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273
1, 3:30pm, Kick off, Super Bowl, bring an appy we will have chili & prizes, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273
5, 11:15am, T.O.P.S. Chapter Meeting - real people lose weight, 1149 4th St. 250-924-4440
8-14, 12 – 4pm., “Temptation”, 610 Oyster Bay Drive. Tues. to Sun., 250-245-1252 www. ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 8, 10am, Carols Craft Market at the North Oyster Com Center 13467 Cedar Rd. 250-754-8905 9, 12pm, Celebrate Family Day Free Swim at FJCC 810 6 Ave. 250-245-6424 10, 1:30 pm, BC Government Retired Employees Association: Chinese musical entertainment with Ruth Anderson and Zale Dalen, meeting to follow. Unitarian Fellowship Hall, 595 Townsite Rd, Nanaimo 250-722-3742
1,2pm, Jazz, Crofton Hotel & Pub 250-324-2000
5, 7pm, National Theatre Live: Treasure Island, Cowichan Theatre 250-748-7529
2-7, Red Lights & Roulette forgotten stories of prostitution and gambling, Nanaimo Museum 100 Museum Way 250-753-1821
7, 10am-2pm, The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy Cedar is hosting Chorus Global Valentines Demo Event. 250-323-8688
2, 7pm, Ladysmith Council Meeting, City Hall 410 Esplanade 250-245-6400
7, 7pm, Opening Night : “Temptation” Guest Speaker Beverly Petow, 610 Oyster Bay Drive. www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com
11-14, 9:30am, 17th Annual Calligraphy Show & Sale, The Loft Gallery at Valley Vines to Wines, Mill Bay Shopping Centre by Warmland Calligraphers of the Cowichan Valley
7, Saturday Night Live Music, the Cranberry Arms 1604 Cedar Rd. 250-722-2120
11, 10:30am, Painting Group, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273
2, 7pm, Cribbage, RCL 171. 250-245-2273 3, 11:30am, The Nanaimo/Ladysmith Retired Teachers’ Association will be holding its February luncheon at the Cavallotti Hall, 2060 East Wellington Rd. Presentation by photographer Mike Yip on Butterflies of VI 778-269-1242
11, 5pm, Bingo: St. Mary’s Hall, 1135 4th Ave.
February 8-14
3, 6:30pm, Drop In Texas Hold-Em, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273
8, 9:30am-11am, Baha’I Childrens classes. 250327-0823
4, 10am – 2pm, St Joseph’s School Chemainus, Open House. 250-246-3191
8, 9am, St Mary’s Parish Ladysmith, Mass and Pancake breakfast served by Knights of Columbus in support of St Joseph’s School. 250246-3191
4-7, 9:30am, 17th Annual Calligraphy Show & Sale, The Loft Gallery at Valley Vines to Wines, Mill Bay Shoping Centre by Warmland Calligraphers of the Cowichan Valley 4, 10:30am, Painting Group, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273
11, 6:30pm, Cowichan Valley Hospice at Ladysmith Eagles Hall. Reserve at events.cvhs@ shaw.ca 1-888-701-4242
8-14, Red Lights & Roulette forgotten stories of prostitution and gambling, Nanaimo Museum 100 Museum Way 250-753-1821
11, 6:30pm, Darts, RCL 171. 250-245-2273 11, 6:30pm, Cowichan Valley Hospice community meetings, Ladysmith Eagles Hall 1-888-701-4242 11, Wednesday Night Music Trivia, the Cranberry Arms 1604 Cedar Rd. 250-722-2120 12, 9:30am, Line Dancing, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273 12, 11:30am, Soup & Sandwich, by donation, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273 12, 11:15am, T.O.P.S. Chapter Meeting - real people lose weight, 1149 4th St. 250-924-4440
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12, 4pm, Meat Draw, RCL 171. 250-245-2273 13, Friday Night Get Together, the Cranberry Arms 1604 Cedar Rd. 250-722-2120 13, 8pm, Pool, RCL 171, 250-245-2273 14, Valentine’s Day 4 Course Dinner, Page Point Bistro 250-924-110 14, Valentine’s Day Romantic Evening, Mahle House Restaurant 250-722-3621 14, Saturday Night Live Music, The Cranberry Arms 1604 Cedar Rd. 250-722-2120 14, 7:30pm, Ballet - Cinderella, Cowichan Theatre 250 748-7529 14, 7:30pm, He Sings, She Sighs – A Romantic Comedy with the VI Symphony, tenor Ken Lavigne, soprano Nadya Blanchette, Port Theatre, 125 Front St. 250-754-8550 www. vancouverislandsymphony.com
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17, 6:30pm, Drop In Texas Hold-Em, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273 17, 7:30pm, Toastmasters, Upper Meeting Rm, 630 2nd Ave. 18, 7-9pm LDBA, Town of Ladysmith and LCof C host Safe Harbour Respect for All. RSVP February 13th info@ladysmithdowntown.com or Teresa 250-245-2277 18-21, 9:30am, 17th Annual Calligraphy Show & Sale, The Loft Gallery at Valley Vines to Wines, Mill Bay Shoping Centre by Warmland Calligraphers of the Cowichan Valley 18, 10:30am, Painting Group, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273 18, 5pm, Bingo: St. Mary’s Hall, 1135 4th Ave. 18, 6:30pm, Heritage Week event “If these Walls Could Talk”- a slide and talk virtual tour of Ladysmith’s historic downtown, In the Beantime Café, Free admission 250-245-0100.
February 15-21
18, 6:30pm, Darts, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250245-2273
15, 9:30am-11am, Baha’I Childrens classes. 250327-0823
18, Music Trivia, Cranberry Arms 250-722-2120
15-21, Red Lights & Roulette forgotten stories of prostitution and gambling, Nanaimo Museum 100 Museum Way 250-753-1821 15-21, 12 – 4pm., Temptation, 610 Oyster Bay Drive. Tues. to Sun., 250-245-1252 www. ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 15, 10am, Carols Craft Market at North Oyster Com. Center 13467 Cedar Rd. 250-754-8905 15, 2pm, Jazz, Crofton Hotel & Pub 1534 Joan Ave 250-324-2000 15, 3pm, Meat Draw, RCL 171. 250-245-2273 16-20, Chamber Week 16-22, Heritage Week: “Main Street at the Heart of the Community”. 16, 7pm, Ladysmith Council Meeting, City Hall 410 Esplanade 250-245-6400 16, 7pm, Cribbage, RCL 171. 250-245-2273
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Ladysmith. 250-245-8033
February 22-28 22, 9:30am-11am, Baha’I Children classes. 250327-0823 22-28, Red Lights & Roulette forgotten stories of prostitution and gambling, Nanaimo Museum 100 Museum Way 250-753-1821 22-24, 12 – 4pm., “Temptation”: 610 Oyster Bay Drive. Tues. to Sun., 250-245-1252 www. ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 22 - 28, 7:30pm, “Project Johnny Cash”, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820 22, 10am, Carols Craft Market at North Oyster Com. Center 13467 Cedar Rd. 250-754-8905 24, 6:30pm, Drop In Texas Hold-Em, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273 24, 7:00pm, Improve your Night Photography – Tips & Techniques Hardwick Hall 228 High St. www.LadysmithCameraClub.com 25, Pink T-Shirt Day No Bullying
19, 9:30am, Line Dancing, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273
25, 9:30am, 17th Annual Calligraphy Show & Sale, The Loft Gallery at Valley Vines to Wines, Mill Bay Shoping Centre
19, 11:15am, T.O.P.S. Chapter Meeting - real people lose weight, 1149 4th St. 250-924-4440
25, 10:30am, Painting Group, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273
19, 7pm, Spring Edible Garden Series: Supporting Native Pollinators, 314 Buller St at 3rd Ave. Tickets at Salamander Books
25, 5pm, Bingo, St. Mary’s Hall, 1135 4th Ave.
19, Thursday Night Karaoke, the Cranberry Arms 1604 Cedar Rd. 250-722-2120
28, Saturday Night Live Music, the Cranberry Arms 1604 Cedar Rd. 250-722-2120
20 -21, 7:30pm, “Project Johnny Cash”, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820 20, 4pm, Meat Draw, RCL 171, 250-245-2273 20, 8pm, Pool, RCL 171. 250-245-2273 21, 5:30pm, Pub Dinner & Music Trivia, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273 21, Saturday Night Live Music, the Cranberry Arms 1604 Cedar Rd. 250-722-2120 21, Sunny Honey & Wild Bill at the Sportsman Pub
26, 9:30am, Line Dancing, RCL 171 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273
28, 7:30pm, 3 Show Series – “Boom”: Cowichan Theatre 250 748-7529 (left to right) 18, “If These Walls Could Talk”- a virtual tour of Ladysmith’s historic downtown 19, Spring Edible Garden Series Supporting Native Pollinators 20-Apr 11, Project Johnny Cash, Chemainus Festival Theatre
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RDN “Area ‘A’ It’s that time of year when the attention of local government focusses on their oneyear, five-year and ten-year operating and capital budget estimates which must be approved by the Board and submitted to the provincial government by mid-May 2015. For the many new Directors elected or appointed to the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Board, there is a steep learning curve as they try to understand the complexities and associated costs of the services covered by the budget. If one ascribes to the opinion pieces preceding and following the recent local government elections, the general public wants to see more fiscal responsibility from elected officials. Having already spent one term as Director, I expect that the reality for most will be the realization that, unless there is overwhelming support for cutting of services, many of the costs are embedded in the system and outside their immediate control. One of the areas where control could be exhibited is contributions to services which are not the direct mandate of local government. Funding of the Island Corridor Foundation to the tune of $945,000 was, in my opinion, an example of committing taxpayer dollars to an unsustainable service. For Electoral Area ‘A’, this resulted in a one per cent property tax increase in 2013 and will add a further 0.9 per cent tax increase in 2015. Over the past several years, senior levels of government have imposed regulatory changes that have increased operating costs for local governments. Absent has been any contribution from the senior level of government to offset the associated costs. A more recent example of this is a change in how local government can access and search land title documents. In changing access ability and fees to BC OnLine the costs to the RDN alone will increase almost 1,000 per cent over those previously experienced. In this case, the RDN will have to determine whether or not to pass on these costs where possi-
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ble to applicants; however, many of the costs experienced by such changes have no direct user to assign the costs to and must be borne by general property taxation. The preliminary budget estimates for Electoral Area ‘A’ indicate that the 2015 property tax will increase by $10 ($166 in 2014 versus $176 in 2015) for the first $100,000 of assessed value; $18 per $200,000 of valuation; $28 per $300,000 of valuation; and $38 per $400,000 of valuation. A full one per cent of the average 5.65 per cent increase arises from costs assessed by the Vancouver Island Regional Library – an organization that has separate taxation authority. As noted above, another 0.9 per cent arises from contributions to the Island Corridor Foundation. Hopefully, my colleagues on the Board will eschew adding any further costs for services that are not the responsibility of local government. alecmcpherson@shaw.ca
CVRD Area H 2015 Board: On Wed, Jan. 14 the newly elected Regional Board held their first meeting of the New Year. In order to move forward on issues that are important to the residents, a strategic planning workshop will be held for the Directors. The objective of the workshop is to identify the outstanding issues from the last three years and to identify new and emerging issues. One of the first steps will include a progress report from the Deputy Administrator. Some of the regional topics that have been identified include watershed protection, contaminated soil in the Shawingan Lake Area, climate change and adaptation, food security, environmental protection and initiatives. For Area H, the issue of the proposed Town of Ladysmith boundary expan-
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sion remains a concern. Although the new Council has not yet made a move in that direction, we must remain ever vigilant and continue to monitor the actions of Council on this application. An item that is of particular interest to me is the revival of a Ladysmith Harbour Commission that would include representation from CVRD Areas G & H, Stz’uminus Frist Nations, the Town of Ladysmith and other local stakeholders. There is a need to update or perhaps completely rewrite the existing Ladysmith Harbour Plan that was developed in the 1970’s prior to undertaking new harbour development. 2015 Committee Assignments: At the Jan 14 meeting, the new CVRD Board Chair, Jon Lefebure announced the creation of six standing committees for 2015 and appointed the Directors to their positions. The first committee is the Committee of the Whole to which all fifteen Directors have been appointed. The Mayor of Duncan is the Chairperson while the Director from Saltair is the Vice-Chairperson. All nine Electoral Area Directors have been appointed to the Electoral Area Services Committee. The Director from Cowichan Bay has been appointed Chairperson and the Director from Mill Bay/Malahat has been appointed Vice-Chairperson. The new Executive Committee consists of five appointed Directors – The Board Chair is the Chairperson of this Committee while the Vice-Chairperson is the Cowichan Bay Director. The other members are the Mayor of Duncan, the North Oyster/Diamond Director and the Honeymoon Bay/Skutz Falls Director. Regional Engineering Services Committee and Regional Services Committee both consist of all 15 Directors. The Director from Honeymoon Bay/Skutz Falls is the Chairperson of the Regional Engineering Committee with the Director from Cobble Hill as the Vice-Chairperson. The Director from North Oyster/Diamond is the Chairperson of the
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Regional Services Committee and a Director/Councilor from North Cowichan is the Vice-Chairperson. 2015 Commission Appointments: There are a number of Commissions that are appointed by the Board upon the recommendation of the Board Chair. Each of these Commissions is governed by individual bylaws with different mandates and procedures. The Commissions include Community Safety Advisory, Economic Development, Environment, and Regional Agricultural Advisory. Most of these Commissions choose their own Chair and Vice-Chair; however the Board Chair appoints the Chair and Vice-Chair of this Committee. The Director from North Oyster/ Diamond was appointed Chairperson and the Director from Sahtlam/Glenora/Cowichan Station was appointed the Vice-Chair person. Other local Commissions are appointed by the Board upon the recommendation of the individual Electoral Area Directors. These Commissions include Advisory Planning Commissions, Parks Commissions and other specified Commissions. For more information visit cvrd.bc.ca.
CVRD Area G Forming A Non Profit Society Saltair, a long time ago, had a recreation hall called Gilly Hoopers Hall where the community had public dances, card games and community events. The hall was destroyed by fire some 50 years ago. After the loss of the hall the community held most of its public events at Mt. Brenton School until the school was closed by the school board due to lack of students and more cost efficiency. The school was sold to private interests for about $650,000 about 10 years ago. It was put back on the market several times and eventually bought by the CVRD with its 5.5 acres for $300,000 to be used as a parkland addition to Centennial Park and the school for public use. Currently the school is being used as a daycare with the daycare paying for the operation, heat and light. Now that the school is back in the public domain, a group of Saltair residents met at the end of November to determine with appropriate programming what
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could once again become a centre of activity for the residents of Saltair. They have had several meetings to decide what is feasible and forming a non profit society with charitable status. This would require drafting of a constitution and bylaws. A group has drafted such documents and are working with the CVRD on an operation agreement to operate the building as a centre for activities. Some recent good news on the financial side is that the federal gas tax money that usually goes to the CVRD big pot can now be doled out directly to individual communities. For Saltair it means that we will get about $400,000 to use on capital projects. Some of it could be used to upgrade the furnaces in the school or work on the roof, etc. Moving forward, the community will have to decide the extent of the activities that will happen in the building and what it can afford to run. There will be public meetings called to explore the wishes of the community and get more people involved. We are looking for Saltarians who want to work towards making Saltair a vibrant community. If you are one of these then contact me at meldorey@shaw.ca or 250-245-2116. We need people with a variety of skills/ experience on committees or work groups. What is required more than anything, is a desire to work towards the benefit of Saltair. Saltair’s Website Saltair has new website called www. sunnysaltair.ca; it has several links to resources that will help Saltair residents with many questions specific to our community. Included on our website, are Saltair local businesses as well as information on the Saltair District Ratepayers Association and a page link with community activities. My TAKE 5 articles from years back are also archived or linked. Paul Mycroft designed the website and Christine Hammersley from the Saltair Ratepayers assisted with local information. Please use the email link to voice any ideas or additions to the website, as well as community enhancement input. At this time the website is community run so your patience would be appreciated when expecting replies to emails or suggested edits to the website.
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How to eat well on a tight budget BY TRICIA PEARSON Why is healthy food more expensive? It’s a tough question but involves our current food system, which makes highly-processed junk and fast food more affordable than fresh, healthy foods. Of course we should eat more fresh fruit and vegetables and buy organic when possible, but how can this work within a budget? It requires a shift in thinking when it comes to meal planning and grocery shopping. A Strategic Approach Take an inventory of what you already have in your pantry, fridge and freezer. Work with what you’ve got because food thrown away is money wasted. Unless it is cheese puffs, throw those out. Remove all of the foods that do not serve your health and wellness goals. Plan your meals ahead of time and shop only for these items. Before purchasing a food, consider where it is going to fit into your diet. Will it be part of a meal, or a healthy snack? If it’s neither, then leave it on the shelf. Don’t Lose Leftovers Keep your fridge and freezer organized and label containers. Food lost and rotting in the darkest reaches of the fridge, freezer or pantry is what? Money wasted. When To Buy Organic No need to blow the bank on all things organic. Key foods to purchase as organic if you can: apples, bell peppers, celery, peaches, nectarines, berries, grapes, pears, leafy greens and potatoes. I always recommend organic choices for dairy and meat - but that’s where the dollars start to add up. See next tip! Eat Less Meat And Dairy You knew that one was coming! There is no way around it — purchasing grassfed, organic, free-range, or hormonefree animal products isn’t cheap. Most people eat more animal protein than they really need. This is one area where I would spend the money on the quality
Nutritionist Tricia Pearson
and cut back on the amount. Don’t Buy Prepared Beverages These can be expensive and are often very unhealthy. Even fruit juice does not offer you much nutrition and it’s generally liquid sugar. Just say no to $5 coffees. Make your own smoothies with whole fruit and veg. Limit Supplements Unless you are taking a very specific supplement for a health condition, you can probably reduce supplements when you start eating healthier. You can get vitamins, minerals and probiotics from real food, especially fermented foods like miso and sauerkraut. Supplements are meant to “supplement” a good diet – not to compensate for a bad one. Food first! I know, bummer. Also, there’s usually no need for superfood powders. Don’t forget the not so sexy superfoods like broccoli, red bell peppers, cabbage, romaine lettuce, sweet potatoes, etc. All whole foods are super! Love Your Legumes Beans, grains and legumes pack a nutritional power punch. They give you a great bang for your buck. Giving you protein, vitamins and fiber. Dried versions of these staples are inexpensive,
store well and are magic in a slow cooker. Canned goods are more convenient but usually cost more. Yes, you can get ample protein from beans, legumes and grains…that’s another article. Broaden Your Culinary Horizons Mexican and Indian dishes are full of inexpensive ingredients like beans, lentils and rice. Our local library has the latest cookbooks. Stock Up Don’t resist produce on sale, especially organics. They may not have been on your list but you can cut them up, freeze them and use them later. Whipped frozen bananas make an amazing and inexpensive “ice cream”. Cut Back On Entertainment Enjoy more picnics and barbecues! Have friends over for a potluck. Frozen Not just a Disney movie. Don’t ignore the frozen isle of your grocery stores.
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Well, maybe the ice cream and pizza part. Remember, if you are buying frozen strawberries, the only ingredient should be…strawberries. Nutrients in frozen produce do eventually degrade, so eat soon after purchase. Steam rather than boil to retain as many vitamins as possible and use the water from your steamed vegetables when cooking rice or soup. Dust Off That Apron Make your own version of processed foods like hummus, salsa, condiments, soups, ice cream, etc. You’re paying for the convenience and brand rather than the actual ingredients. Farmer’s Markets Arriving later often yields some good deals. Vendors are usually willing to negotiate a bit more at the end of the day. Even on a limited income, we can each make a few small upgrades that could have a massive impact on our health. Change your plate, change your fate! Tricia Pearson is a Nutritionist and Orthomolecular Practitioner based in Ladysmith. Find out more at www. stepuptotheplatenutrition.com.
FEB 2015
Patricia Kew, Island Reflexology
Island Reflexology A new business to our area is Island Reflexology. Owner Patricia Kew is a an R.C.R.T. with RAC, Canada. She recently relocated ber business established in 2007 from Parksville to Ladysmith. Island Reflexology has been in business since 2007. A session at Island Reflex-
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ology is in a very relaxed atmosphere with low lighting, soft music and a small fireplace,” says Kew. Reflexology sessions are 60 or 90 minutes that include a herbal foot soak, lower leg massage and hot towel wrap. Reflexology helps to restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. Tensions are eased and circulation is improved, says Kew.
Cowichan Valley Hospice leads consult How would you like you and your loved ones to be cared for at the end of life? How do we make our community the best possible place to live when our families are challenged with advancing illness or bereavement? Cowichan Valley Hospice is leading a community consultation on end of life care, through an online survey and a series of public meetings. You are invited to participate in a conversation about end of life care experiences and a vision for the future of hospice palliative care in Cowichan on Wednesday, Feb 11 at Ladysmith Eagles Hall 6:30 to 9 pm. “I hope that as many residents as possible will participate in these discussions and survey opportunities so that all of us together are able to develop the end of life care that our community needs now and into the future,” says Cowichan Valley Hospice Board Chair MaryAnn Deacon Thanks to Shared Care and Our Cowichan Community Health Network for funding assistance. For more information please contact Gretchen Hartley at Cowichan Valley Hospice at gh.cvhs@shaw.ca or 1-888-7014242. To receive a link for the survey when it is live, please email us at: events.cvhs@shaw.ca
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FEB 2015
Good Bones and Elder Buildings Preserving history through maintaining historical buildings shouldn’t be under estimated, be it a First Nations Long house, a castle, or one of downtown Ladysmith heritage buildings. The location, materials, craftsmanship, and enduring strength, of these structures provide a valuable lesson especially important in our current “throwaway” society. The buildings show pride of workmanship, ingenuity, and what can be achieved from physical efforts applied skillfully. They tell us that back when things were built to last they didn’t cut corners – instead they went the extra mile. There is something about an abandoned or neglected building that saddens the heart. I suppose it’s the reflection of our own process of ageing and decline, or perhaps the message that someone just gave up. Many old buildings have “good bones” and are worthy of a “face lift”. Good bones or not the truth is that as long as we are able, we ourselves are also responsible for our own maintenance. Our skeletal “frame work” our “plumbing” our “electrical” all require continued care, just like an old building. Most of us have been around long enough to know that we need to maintain our health – it’s the “doing” part where we get stuck. Let’s resolve to make the new year a better one than the last – and let’s start with a commitment to health. So,if you own an “elder building” there is never a time like the present to stop neglecting it. Don’t give up on yourself . Do some maintenance. - Marilyn Swallow. RMT RA operates Wildflower Natural Health which is located in a heritage building in Ladysmith’s downtown. Wildflower offers a number of srvices including massage therapy, counselling, allergy testing, elimination, homeopathic consultations, plus strength/flexibility groups and coming in March Wildflower Women’s Group.
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Letters to the president, rocket powered bicycles, and more The scene opens with a moderately disheveled male, mid-sixties, (age, not girth) shuffling into the kitchen where his wife makes lunch. He looks exactly like me. Hey, wait a minute, it is me. Clutched in my hand is a white legal sized envelope. On my face, you can almost see a smattering of feathers, cat that caught the canary feathers. Me: (To wife.) Go ahead; ask me what I’ve been doing? Loving wife: Okay, what have you been doing? Me: (Gleeful; on the verge of a cackle.) I’ve been writing a letter to President Obama. What else would I be doing? (Triumphantly brandishes envelope. Yep, it’s the real thing; Barack Obama, the White House, 2600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Get out the stars and stripes, cue up the Rocky soundtrack.) Loving wife: That’s nice. Did you clean out the hall closet like I asked? Now you’d think a letter to the Presi-
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dent would cause some excitement, some incredulity, curiosity, or any other word ending in y. At least a question! Been pen pals long? Did you say hello for me? Are you trying to get us nuked? Something of that nature. Apparently not. Nor was my wife’s reaction unusual, not if you ask my cronies; sage, coffee-swilling individuals, most of whom have had similar reactions from their wives. “Next time try someone important, Oprah maybe,” one of them said, although that was curiosity speaking The Obama letter can be seen in full ridiculousness on my previous post. It’s entitled a Solution For the Sony Problem, and offers commonsense playground advice on how to prevent the North Korean situation from escalating, while at the same time putting the fat kid with the funny haircut in his place, that being the nearest possible sewage treatment plant. But, funny hair cut or not, the North Korean, cheese addicted strongman, last seen bench pressing two rounds of cheddar, must be taken seriously, especially since trash-talk coach Dennis Rodman has come aboard. The “cheeky monkey” comment, an obvious Rodman tactic. State department officials, fearful of Rodman’s rebounding prowess, are worried the insults will escalate to the tipping point, that being “Your mother wears army boots”, where the president, always defensive about Mom’s footwear choices, would have no option but to respond with the greatest possible force. State department officials are fully
FEB 2015
aware of the President’s vulnerabilities, that being, spinnaker sized ears, and persistent rumours that he is Alfred E. Neuman’s secret love child. But, back to the letter. Some have suggested the only response I’ll get from the White House is, “Please advise of your coordinates, and kindly remain seated until the B-52’s arrive.” But hey, wouldn’t it be great if he did reply? Then I could sign “Confidant of the President,” after my name and preface all remarks with, “As I was saying to Barack, just the other day….” But I digress, my point is, when it comes to matters fun to the heart, don’t expect your wife to react the same as you do. Just because you’re excited over your latest breakfast creation, the blue cheese and peanut butter omelets, doesn’t mean she will be. Some things are just better kept to yourself. Some say that one should share your innermost dreams and fantasies with your mate, but whenever I’ve mentioned I’d like to redline a sports bike in top gear, or that Car and Driver got 204 mph out of the new Lamborghini, all I get is, “Where can you go that fast around here?” This is what’s known as a rhetorical question and is not to be answered unless you look good wearing a flowerpot on the head. Though technically a question, it is the female way of saying your prefrontal cortex is made of cat litter. Things that excite the male just don’t resonate with females. Take the French guy who recently hit 207 mph on his
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rocket powered bicycle. (True story) In French, that works out to 333 kph, which sounds even grander, but then so does everything in French. You can have a boring steak and fries, but summon all your phlegm, puff up your bony chest, and voila, you have zee pep-hair biff-steak au Poo-rah, avec palm fritz. (Fritz? Hey, get that guy outta my fries.) Imagine the rocket powered bicyclist coming home from his record run, putting his helmet in the hall closet, placing his hightops which are still smoking after being set on fire from the jet exhaust, outside on the stoop, a minor inconvenience from the prone riding position. “What’s that smell? Asks his wife?” “Just my shoes,” he says. “They got a little hot today. Took the bicycle up to 333, shattered the old world record.” “That’s nice,” she responds, then without missing a beat, “Did you remember to pick up the bananas for the kid’s lunch?” Meanwhile, back in Moose jaw, and not to be outdone by a bony Frenchman, another man brings excitement to his fellow males, this time with a V-8 powered, walk-behind snow blower. An engineering tour de force in any language with treads at the back for easy turning, exhaust headers that rise straight up like antlers, heated handlebars, what more can a man want other than a blizzard in the forecast? And when I say V-8, I don’t mean a little piddly one like you’d find in a BMW. No, I mean 454 cubic inches of big block Chevy with a four-barrel carburetor that pumps gas like a fire hose. We’re talking enough horsepower to shoot a large tube of snow out of your yard, over the Jones’, and onto the roof two
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houses over. How can you not get excited about that? According to my wife, it’s easy. But not to worry, I know how to get her excited. Boy do I know how. Just carefully follow these simple steps until it’s time to duck. Tell her you invited your pen pal Obama and Michelle over for dinner, plus his kids, bodyguards and the White House dog. The more the merrier. Trust me, even though the chances he’ll accept are maybe 300 million to one, she will share your excitement. Just be prepared to wear the flowerpot. Cool your heels after riding your jet powered bike with an Italian white, Poggiotondo Bianco, $15.99. Delbert Horrocks is a co-proprietor at Mahle House Restaurant. Follow him at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com
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FOR SALE BLACK COTTONWOOD windfall tree for sale, approx. 60’ long. You cut and haul, free. 250-2454073. REEBOK LADIES COMMUTER BICYLE, 7 speeds, white, with saddle bags. $175 (reg $500) 250-245-9165 or 250-756-8892. JUNIOR ACOUSTIC GUITAR w/case, perfect for beginners, and lessons. $50. 250-245-9165 or 250-756-8892. MIXED UNSEASONED FIREWOOD, 6ft box filled to top $ 80.00. Bundles of kindling $ 10.00. FREE Delivery to Ladysmith, Cedar and Yellow Point areas. Call Tyler 250-667-0890 LOOKING FOR A GREAT CELL PHONE NUMBER? For information and offers leave message at 250-756-5555 FOR RENT OFFICE SPACES Downtown Ladysmith, modern, reasonable rent or lease. 250-245-3395 FOR RENT THE PERFECT FAMILY HOME CONVENIENTLY close to all levels of schools and Community Center Just renovated with you in mind! 3 beds 1 bath Large fenced yard, pets ok $1200 + util. 250-619-4546 BUSINESS HOME BASED BUSINESS Got 10-15 hours a week to make productive? Learn to earn an income at your computer! Full training and support provided. www.FinallyFreedom4You.com SUM-IT BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Need help preparing for your 2014 tax return? Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, CRA remittances. Sole proprietors, small businesses, corporate. Your office or mine, reasonable rates. 250-616-2301 VOLUNTEER WANTED - TAKE 5 is looking for
an individual who has a few hours to spare once a week to help out with our community volunteer projects and events. Get to know the community. Call Marina at 250-245-7015 or editor@take5.ca FOR ALL YOUR SEWING NEEDS – bedding, window treatments, couch & chair covers, cushions, pillows, special accessories and décor, dressmaking and alterations – what ever comes to your mind, Elke 250-618-1172 or info@ egrstudios.com NEED A GOOD PHOTO? Website, brochures or corporate reports. A good image makes you shine. Call 250-756-8892.
FEB 2015
TAI CHI - For mental and physical health. Beginner class starts September and February, Mondays: on-going class Wednesdays. Both classes 10am - 12 noon, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 McMillan Road. $20/mo. Sara 250-245-1466 or www. nanaimotaichi.org ISAGENIX DISTRIBUTOR - Get Lean & Healthy Fast - Less than $5/ meal. Our protein shakes are amazing! - No Gluten, Wheat, Barley or Trans Fat. www. taketimetoday.com Suzanne Deveau 250-245-8407 PAIN? STRESS? EXHAUSTION? 20 minute seated REIKI session $20 Reiki, crystal healing &/or hypnotherapy by Reiki Master Lynn Holland, M.H., C.CHt. By appointment only 622 1st Ave., Ladysmith www.LynspirationTherapies.ca 250618-7787 HOME & YARD
EDUCATION SENSE OF PLACE YOUTH PROJECT LTD at North Oyster (Lic#KRIS-9MPPYV) Full day kids camps, Before and After School nature programming, arts/crafts, hiking, building, music, games etc! Full or part time, drop-in spots, subsidy welcome www.senseofplaceyp.com patti@senseofplaceyp.com or 250-667-1222 LEARN A LANGUAGE, Small groups, conversational approach, excellent teachers: French, Spanish, Italian, German, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian and more. Registration is ongoing. WENTWORTH COURT LANGUAGE CENTRE, 517 Wentworth St., Nanaimo 250-7161603 HEALTH & BEAUTY BOWEN TECHNIQUE is a gentle soft tissue remedial therapy that resets the body to heal itself. Useful for joint, back and neck pain, frozen shoulder, asthma, chronic fatigue and many other problems. For information and appointments call 250-245-7738. Lilja Hardy FMBAC in practice since 1994. www.bowtech.com
PAINT & SAVE OPTION- Do it yourself, with a little help from a pro. Together we can make your job more affordable and accomplish a great look. Making the world a brighter place for over 25 years. Call Harvey for information please. 250-245-2174 INTERIOR PAINTING - Refresh your walls... and your spirits! Careful, respectful work. Attention to detail. Help with colour choice. No job too small. Reasonable rates. Kari 250-245-2751 ISLAND KING RENOS LTD. - Kitchen-BathTile-Backsplash-Countertops-Flooring-DrywallPaint-Siding-Fences-Decks INTERIOR and EXTERIOR. Quote by JOB not by the HOUR. www.islandkingrenos.com 250-924-4924 QUALITY RENOVATIONS Big/small. 25 yrs exp/ journeyman, affordable, estimate Lars 250-616-1800 DARREL ESSAR RENOVATIONS Over 30 years experience, certified journeyman carpenter. No job is too small, from fences, decks, tile work, hardwood flooring, painting, drywall etc. For free estimate call Darrell 250-714-3823 MINI EXCAVATOR for lease or rent by day, week or month Reasonable rates. 250-246-6624
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THE HAPPY GARDENER. Weeding, digging, raking, cutting back, etc. I also do Window Washing and Odd Jobs. Cheerful and Conscientious. Call David at 250-618-9217 WEEKLY OR BI-MONTHLY CLEANING for houses and offices, experienced, reliable and attention to detail. $20 per hour. References available. Ladysmith, Chemainus and Crofton. 250-246-4938 Jamie or Ingrid SASSA’S HOME AND GARDEN CARE. No job too big or small. Affordable honest work. Duo team. Cleaning, Gardening Painting, and Gutter Cleaning. Outside and inside your home or business. 250-924-4735 or 250-218-4735 NEWLIFE YARDWORK and PAINTING – Lawn mowing, weeding, power washing, rubbish removal, gutter cleaning. Prompt, courteous, reliable service for your home or business. Contact Terry at 250668-8383 or newlifeyardwork@gmail.com PETS KITTY KORNERS CAT HOTEL - Purrsonalized Quality Kitty Care. Daily health checks, experienced with special needs kitties. Reasonable rates. Available 24/7. 2 km north of Nanaimo Airport. Take a virtual tour www. kittykorners.com 250-740-KATS (5287) HOME BUDDIES - PET & HOUSE CARE since 1994. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. Professional, kind-hearted, experienced and reliable. Pet First Aid and CPR Certified. Certified Security Professional, Animal Care Aide certified, VIU. For loving care and security, Peggy Wildsmith- 250-245-0151 PROFESSIONAL PET CARE SERVICE: leash ‘em & walk ‘em with Marlena. Insured and bonded. Animal First Aid and CPR. Service for all pets including dog walking, home care visits, overnight with pet in your home and much more. As my love is yours! 250-246-3394 TOO CRAZY BIRDY HOTEL , travel with peace of mind, parrot boarding in a home setting, birds and only birds, budgies to macaws, nightly rate $5,$10,$15, sml,md, lrg. Prebooking visits welcome. Diana and Kip Slater 250-722-2201 www.toocrazybirdyhotel.com SENIORS LYNN’S SENIORS CARE HOME High Quality Personalized Care. Warm caring environment, Great food and snacks, Family events, Couples and Pets welcomed, Ocean views, Gardens. North of Ladysmith. 250-245-3391 lynnsseniorcare.com MID-ISLAND HOME SUPPORT since 2009. Personal and home care assistance available. Bondable, licenced and insured for your safety and ours. For a free in home assessment please call 250924-2273 (CARE).
TAKE 5
The Ladysmith Town council meeting on January 19 was the first indication of the thinking and direction that our new Council is heading. The agenda for the night contained a couple of controversial issues, and as a result a larger than normal audience was in attendance which required a change of location from City Hall to the Eagles Hall. The most controversial issue of the night was the proposal for a Development Variance Application for a building at 410 Third Avenue to allow it to become a legal coach house. This building that has been the centre of a political storm since its original construction in 2009 with the issue of occupancy going all the way to the Provincial Supreme Court. People in the immediate neighbourhood were strongly opposed to the granting of a variance and the Town received dozens of letters regarding the variance as well as people speaking in support and opposition at the meeting. Council unanimously voted to reject the application for the variance. In my opinion all parties lost. The residents have still lost their view because it meets the bylaw for an auxiliary building. For the property owner it’s a loss because it cannot be used as a residence. Council’s position, as I read it, is that you cannot build a non-conforming building in the hopes that you can get a variance later to allow it to be used for different use. This is a strong statement to those who want to push the limits by building first and asking for forgiveness later. Some on Council feared that grant-
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ing this variance would set a precedence especially so soon after the passing of a new coach house zoning bylaw. The Jan 19 meeting covered a range of topics. Council unanimously approved a request for a Riparian Development Permit that will be the first step towards the creation of a 529 housing unit subdivision on the west side of Holland Creek. If approved, this will “permit the subdivision of land and road dedication” on three subject properties to facilitate the creation of one 57 hectare parcel.” The development is led by the Coast Salish Development Corporation working for the Stz’uminus First Nations. This parcel of land is presently zoned F-1 and is operating as a SFN woodlot. According to an article in the Nanaimo Daily News, Stz’uminus First Nations also recently signed a memorandum of understanding with RCR Mining with plans of starting development on a copper, zinc and ore mine in the next five years. The mine would sit on a site in Stz’uminus’s territory. Another topic covered was water. The Cowichan Valley Regional District Regional Water Management and Governance presentation highlighted
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concerns and plans for more sustainable water uses. And addressing local use, John Manson, Director of Infrastructure presented a 2015 Water Conservation Plan that recommends that Ladysmith sets a conservation target 20 per cent lower than the Canadian average for a metered single family dwelling and that staff investigate the potential to raise residential water rates. Last year when the town was considering a boundary expansion a detailed report was released on the long term availability of water. What I understood from that was that the supply of water was adequate, but we are presently unable to store water to meet our future needs during the high demand months, and that we will need to raise the dam. Yet despite these concerns we are looking at supplying more water to developments such as the Stz’uminus First Nations projects that also include the Oyster Bay commercial and residential development that includes a hotel. The new Council handled their first controversial meeting well. They had hard decisions to make and handled them well, even if I don’t personally agree with all of them. Mayor Aaron Stone did a good job keeping the meeting on track, yet allowing a degree of latitude to some of the speakers. As long as things are kept transparent, I have high hopes for this Council. At least that’s as I see it. Follow Rob Johnson on his Facebook, Group: As We See It.
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