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Letters Father’s Day gift cut down A group of young dads bought and planted a sturdy, tall tree in the children’s playground area in the park on Walkem Drive on Father’s Day. I met the group of them going home with their kids and shovels. Really nice young men--committed Dads. There is no shade for Moms, (or Dads) and tots at all so they decided the cost of the tree and effort would be their gift to the collective who enjoy the park. This was a tall tree, 10 feet tall perhaps and sturdy. Two days later some young kids took a saw to the tree and cut it in half. It goes without saying I am furious. Such a lovely gesture--so wonderful to see a group of fathers proactive as Dads and in their community--such a destructive act of stupidity. Can’t imagine what those young men are feeling either! – Holly Eden
Mount Brenton School and Land Purchase On June 10, 2014 a meeting was held at the old Mount Brenton School to discuss the possible purchase of the building and land by the CVRD as part of our area parks. It was presented as a “very good deal” for the people of Saltair by our regional Director and a representative of the CVRD parks board. When questions were asked by the people in attendance, it quickly became clear that very little thought had gone into the need or use for the building and land or the costs associated with owning it. It also became clear that it would not be the people of Saltair making the decision for purchase. It would be our director and the CVRD regardless of our wishes. Our only responsibility as tax payers of Saltair would be to pay for it regardless of the costs. The one hundred or so people that attended the meeting were also told by our director that those who were against this proposal did not represent the wishes of the people of Saltair and that they were against raising taxes for any reason. We find it irresponsible of our elected representative and the CVRD to seriously consider purchasing something of this magnitude without having first a clearly defined use for it and also a detailed cost estimate. Without these two items, you cannot possibly determine if it is “a very good deal” for us or not. We also find it troubling that our elected representative feels that the people who will ultimately pay for all of this are not entitled to take part in the decision making. From our perspective, the people in the meeting were asking reasonable questions that need to be answered before an informed decision can be made. We also feel that the majority of tax payers in Saltair are not necessarily against raising taxes for necessary improvements, they are against wasting tax dollars. Unfortunately, this type of behavior and attitude by our elected officials and governing bodies is becoming all too common. They need
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Draft Zoning By-laws How would you feel about a two storey accessory building going up behind the house next door? Particularly if this building compromised your privacy, light or views? This could happen if Ladysmith’s Draft Zoning By-laws are passed into law. At present such a building would be illegal. The 2010 by-law on accessory buildings limits them to 1 storey and 45 sq. meters. The draft zoning bylaw would permit two storey accessory buildings, also known as coach houses, with up to 60 square meters on each level. If variances are granted by council, coach houses could be much larger. Several councillors are on record as favouring coach homes larger than 60 sq. meters. Councillor Dashwood would like to see coach houses of 90 sq. meters. Such a building would be larger than the two storey garage/suite accessory building controversy that led to the 2010 by-law limiting accessory buildings to
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one storey and 45 sq. meters. Why would we risk returning to a situation which pits neighbours against neighbours by overturning this by-law? The affordable housing argument for coach houses doesn’t hold up as secondary suites in homes are more affordable to build and we now have an abundance of them. As for a place for mom or dad, that could be achieved in a single storey coach house… probably preferable because of no stairs. If you agree that two storey accessory buildings will have a negative impact on our town, please share your concerns with our mayor and council. They will be voting on the Draft Zoning By-Laws soon. A public hearing on the Draft Zoning By-laws is scheduled for July 14, 2014, time and place to be announced. -Pam Fraser, Ladysmith
PIPELINE...NO SURPRISE
Czar Harper gave a nod and wink, An A-O.K., without a blink, To go ahead with wildlife dead, And oil where they make their bed Without so much as “How-dee-doo”. First Nations? Never heard of you! Environmentalists? They make me laugh! Go save a rhino or giraffe! It’s money, oil, pipes, and ships... He don’t care if there are spills and drips. Quit your whining – I’m the power! So what? If you lose a bug or flower... We want the cash and we will get it. Will we conquer? You can bet it. We’ve the votes and you have none. We laugh, we win. The deed is done... - Poem and cartoon by Gord Barney
Thanks! Just wanted to thank you so much for running the story about drone warfare, and the photograph of John Hill and I. We had a great turn-out for our Ladysmith Library talk, over 30 people - pretty amazing!. So thank you so much for getting the word out about
JULY 2014 our book Unmanned – Drone Warfare and Global Security. - Ann Rogers Thank you for putting my piece about Min-Goo Kang leaving Ladysmith First United Church in the TAKE 5/June 2014. It is a very newsy issue. I especially liked Laurie Gourlay’s Another Beautiful Day column about the Women’s Institute in Cedar celebrating 90 years. - Caroline H. Davidson
Couverdon land annexation and Watershed lands The Town Council wants to own the Holland Creek Watershed to protect our water supply. Protection of water quality and quantity is an excellent objective. They are commended for their concern and intent. But they are so focused on this objective they are not able to see other ways to achieve this end. There are other ways that are not so costly and risky. Home owners know that that there are significant ongoing costs and responsibilities that go along with ownership. It will be the taxpayers of Ladysmith that pick up future costs for the care and management of lands acquired as part of the Couverdon deal. These costs have not been documented. Residents need to know what future burden they will be taking on. It is a simple part of rational decision making. I believe that water quality and quantity can be maintained in a manner compatible with forestry. Our current forest practices are the problem. Forest road construction can be a huge issue, but when done to the appropriate standards can be built and used without adding sediment to our streams, or changing the timing and quantity of flow. Forest practices such as: selective cutting; small block cutting; retention of areas around wetlands and for habitat; appropriate stream buffers; recognition and accommodation of other uses; replanting; thinning etc., all help to maintain water quality and quantity. So rather than simply focusing on ownership with uncertain future costs, why not look at partnering with TimberWest, First Nations, and the province for more effective planning and operations within the watershed to meet these goals? This seems like a much more effective and cost efficient approach rather than acquiring land in exchange for the rights given to Couverdan to develop 700 acres of forest land for residential development. The Couverdon and town proposal creates an ironic situation. The Couverdon development will significantly change 700 acres of watershed to residential use (not our drinking water but a watershed nevertheless) and will likely take water demand beyond the capacity of the Holland Creek system. The irony: it defeats the goal of protecting the watershed
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in the first place. If you are interested in the impacts of this proposed development on our community you can follow developments, or post your thoughts, on the facebook page Couverdon Watch. couverdonwatch@outlook.com - Greg Roberts, Ladysmith
Response to Stz’uminus blockade letter to editor I am writing out of shock and alarm that a letter that is so obviously misinformed was seen fit to be printed. I am interpreting that the letter regarding the Stz’uminus people, suggests that recognizing Indigenous people’s rights, somehow takes away from all other Canadians. This myth is tired and offensive. Sadly it is a well know Canadian story that perpetuates the ‘idea’ that by honouring agreements made with Indigenous people, the Canadian government is giving “special treatment’ to Indigenous people. Is this how we want the world to understand Canada, as exploiters and takers? We sure have a short memory of history and this letter reveals that we have learned nothing, and that what we burp out as opinions is unsubstantiated and uninformed rhetoric. Almost as alarming as this, is that TAKE 5 and the Ladysmith-Chemainus Chronicle have chosen to publish this. Did we learn nothing from the recent debacle with Nanaimo Daily News? This letter is in line with same letters that triggered a national reaction. Publishing this letter here without a caveat warning that the content is provocative and offensive, is a clear sign that we don’t learn from our mistakes. This is so disappointing to me as a Canadian and as one who is working hard to face the truth about our history. - Laurie Harding Michael Smith’s letter to the editor “Stz’uminus Blockade” shows a profound lack of understanding of history and law. Smith asserts that aboriginal rights are based
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on race, skin colour, ethnic origin, or religion. They are not. They are the property rights, use rights, governance rights and human rights which are held collectively by aboriginal peoples. They have long been recognized in law -- from the Royal Proclamation of 1763 to the Canadian Constitution Act of 1982 -- and are a foundation of the relationship between indigenous peoples who have occupied their lands and governed their communities since time immemorial, and the settlers and newcomers who have come to live here since. The writer simply fabricates history when he claims that “our leaders” (which I presume he means only ‘us’ ‘white people’) have been negotiating away equality rights in terms of education, colour of skin, ethnic origins and religion. Until the 1960s, Canada has had a notorious record of legislating inequalities based on these very things -- from the Chinese head tax to the Indian Act. It wasn’t until the 1982 Constitution Act, where aboriginal and treaty rights were recognized and affirmed in section 35, that these equalities have been guaranteed for aboriginal peoples. Our Charter of Rights and Freedoms explicitly guarantees that the state cannot use the pretext of these individual equalities to extinguish or infringe on aboriginal peoples’ rights. Claims that the public is gripped by a fear of civil disobedience if the state does not acquiesce to aboriginal peoples’ demands is ludicrous. Aboriginal peoples are continually frustrated by government recalcitrance in engaging with honour and fair dealing on issues which impact their communities’ livelihoods, governance, and cultures. In spite of literally hundreds of court cases which have again and again recognized the obligations and duties governments have towards aboriginal title and rights and treaty rights, First Nations, Métis and Inuit leaders continue to be put in the position of having to push for that recognition in the courts and on the land. Little different than the civil rights movement of 40 years ago, aboriginal peoples in
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Canada continue to employ a range of social, legal and political actions to bring an end to colonial and paternalistic attitudes and policies. While there have been successes, the oppressive Indian Act, the lack of recognition of aboriginal title and rights on the ground, the exercise of policies that ignore the duty and honour of the Crown in consultation relationships, and the unaddressed legacies of failed social policies like residential schools and aboriginal child welfare system, has left Canada with the most pressing social, legal and moral blight of our time. Here in the Ladysmith-Cedar area it is clear that in spite of 20 years in the BC Treaty Process, the impact of the privatization of lands in the E&N Railway Grant have challenged our communities and governments to reconcile the wealth that has been created with the alienation of the property, use, and governance rights of Stz’uminus First Nations. Similarly, the unequal, industry-centred policies of the DFO have systemically excluded Stz’uminus people from a share of the fishery that recognizes Stz’uminus peoples’ un-extinguished aboriginal title and rights. It is time to end the history of denial that Smith’s letter embodies, and to stand together towards a future of mutual respect and understanding. - Brian Thom What a breath of fresh opinion! Bravo Michael Smith for writing your letter “Stz’uminus blockade” published in June’s Take 5 and in the Ladysmith-Chemainus Chronicle. You said it all. I, and I suspect most Canadians, agree. As long as a segment of any population is “set aside” or isolated or treated differently than the rest, there will always be discord. Canada has long been accused of apartheid - and Canada is absolutely guilty. Governments do stupid things all the time, and creating a reserve system based on race ranks right at the top. It is time to undo this wrong and put everyone back on a level playing field. -Sylvia Holt
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Censorship? I am shocked and alarmed that Laurie Harding found my letter to the editor in the TAKE 5 and the Ladysmith Chemianus Chronicle shocking, alarming, and misinformed. Why is it that these people, when faced with an opinion they don’t share, question a publication’s decision to print it? Didn’t we fight a great war to defend freedom of speech? Similarly, Mr. Brian Thom letter in the Ladysmith-Chemainus Chronicle chooses to dismiss an opinion he does not share as the “ voice of a troll living under a bridge”. The fact that many people disagree with some of the “on going legacies of our colonial history” does not mean we are ignorant, and certainly does not mean we are racist. I submit that there may be more” trolls” under the bridge than above it, and it may come as a surprise that many of us are well educated and well informed, even though we disagree with Harding and Thom. Let us have this debate without censorship as that is the last resort of those who are afraid their views may not be defensible. - Michael Smith Letters published here do not necessarily reflect or represent that of TAKE 5. Letters to the Editor is an Open Forum representing the richly diverse points of view from within our community. We respect the right to be different and the right to have differences. Letters to the editor are welcome but subject to space and editing and do not necessarily reflect those of TAKE 5. Multiple submissions will not be considered. Please include name, address and phone number for verification only. editor@take5.ca PO Box 59, Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A1
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year marks the 14th year in Ladysmith. There is also a spare parts boot sale and British related vendors. It’s a great way to spend the day at the beach. It all gets reved up at 10am until 3pm. Registration and admission is free. Sponsored by the Ladysmith & District Credit Union.
Ladysmith, your days are here Ladysmith Days August 2-3/14 a fun annual family event for over 40 years, celebrates with an exciting line-up of musicians, singers, dancers and much more. The Bullhead Derby is back again on Saturday morning at 7am down at the Ladysmith Maritime Society dock. Downtown Ladysmith is a bustle of activity with the Rotary Pancake Breakfast starting at 7am at the Ladysmith & District Credit Union parking lot, followed by the Citizen of the Year Award and the always popular Kinsmen Parade down First Ave. at 10:15 am. Stay downtown and head to the Aggie field to enjoy all the fun at the 49th Parallel Family Fun Day, rides, entertainment, face painting and an ice cream eating contest. Ladysmith Has Royalty and Ladysmith Has Talent will once again be held down at Transfer Beach….Royalty starts at 3pm with the Talent following at 4pm. Saturday at Transfer Beach from 6pm to 8pm it’s a Beach Party! Bring your blanket and chairs and come on down to listen to the tunes of Luv Train. Sunday morning kicks off with the Eagles Pancake Breakfast downtown at the Ladysmith Eagles Hall followed later that evening with their steak dinner. After filling you tummy get down to Transfer Beach for an entire day filled with rides, games, a petting zoo, kayaking and more. Finishing off with a bang is the Fireworks Spectacular, starting at 9:30pm. For a complete list of what’s happening check out their web site ladysmithdays.com or visit TAKE 5’s events calendar at www.take5.ca.
The Brits are Coming Transfer Beach Park will be filled with all forms of British motorized vehicles on July 13. “Brits on the Beach” is the Central Island Branch of the Old English Car Club’s greatest event of the year. In 2013 there were nearly 300 British cars, trucks and motorcycles participating from all over BC and beyond. This
HomeTown Tourist Weekend The 4th annual Be a HomeTown Tourist wrapped up Father’s Day weekend and is building momentum every year. TAKE 5 the event’s sponsor thanks all the HomeTown partners for their continued participation. “We are encouraged by the support that was received from the community, and all the great things to see and do that were offered this year. Our partners pulled together and shared information on social media, and it was very cool,” says coordinator Cindy Damphousse. “This campaign continues to grow and serves as a reminder to all our residents that we have an awesome back yard with lots of things to play with! So just because the HomeTown weekend is over does not mean the fun has ended. You can still get out and explore. Grab a copy of the TAKE 5 Vacation Guide and check out some other cool places and things to do. You will be pleasantly surprised. We all are working hard to create a place where residents and visitors want to return again to enjoy all that we have to offer, “ says Damphousse. If you or your organization would like to be part of next year’s event email projects@take5.ca
Aggie historic photos needed The Ladysmith Heritage and Revitalization Advisory Commission is in the process of designing a plague for the Aggie Hall which would include photos of events at the Hall as well as a brief history. The Ladysmith Archives collection of Aggie photos is very limited so they are turning to the community to help. If you or someone you know has any photos of events that occurred in or outside of Aggie Hall please contact Ladysmith Archives 250-245-0100. They will be scanned and returned to their owners or email them to their office.
Ride for the Wild! Watch out for two wild cyclists passing through Ladysmith and area in early
Geoff Campbell and Mikhayla Roht are taking a Ride for the Wild.
July. Starting on July 2, Geoff Campbell and Mikhayla Roht will be embarking on a 2,500km, two month long bike expedition from Victoria, to San Diego. The purpose of their trip is to contribute to the protection of wildlife on the Pacific Coast through raising awareness and funds. All proceeds go directly to Pacific Wild, a non-profit organization devoted to protecting BC’s Great Bear Rainforest, the largest intact temperate rainforest on earth. To learn more about Pacific Wild visit pacificwild.org or follow Ride for the Wild Blog (http://rideforthewild. tumblr.com/). Donations accepted online at: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/ ride-for-the-wild The university students were inspired to take action by the Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline which they say poses a threat to BC’s wildlife.
Sports Day at St. Joseph’s Students and their families at St. Joseph’s School enjoyed perfect weather
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for their annual Sports Day on June 17th. Events included a water balloon toss, tug-o-war, sack race and obstacle course. Free lunch of hot dogs, veggies, and drink was provided by the parent group. The day rounded off with a choice between a giant game of tag or quiet activities, reports Bern Muller, principal, St. Joseph’s School.
Air Cadets honoured at review The Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron 257 Ladysmith recently held their Annual Ceremonial Review and Inspection. The Squadron welcomed Captain George Ruscoff as the Reviewing Officer and Norman Scott as the Air Cadet League/BC Provincial Committee Inspector. This year’s special awards went to: Outstanding First Year Cadet: L.A.C. Maggie Boese-Ezard, Most Improved Cadet: L.A.C. Cameron Ball, Citizenship Award: Sgt. Nathan Fuller, Commanding Officers Award: WO2 Nicolas Openshaw and the Lord Strathcona Medal (the highest award for Cadets) to FSgt. Brandon Peterson. Congratulations to all Cadets for a successful training year. To find out more about joining the Ladysmith Squadron contact us at ladysmithaircadets@yahoo.ca or phone Cathy Gilroy (Parent Sponsoring Committee) at 250-245-8119. Training starts in September!
Penpals 63 Years In 1948 teacher Avril Muirhead went to England to teach school. When she returned to Canada she brought a list of the students names so her students could write to the ones in England. Theresa Kowall remembers choosing the name Maureen since she had a sister with that
Ladysmith Air Cadets at their annual Review Photo: Trish Baird
name. “I have kept up correspondence with my friend Maureen Johnson for 63 years now. We are like sisters as we know our likes and dislikes and support one another when times are tough.” Maureen has been to Canada twice and Theresa has been to England three times, the most recent trip in September 2013. They originally wrote letters by hand in their school script, which took a long time going by post. Then in their teens, the writing evolved into typing letters and now they email back and forth. “This is great as it brings us closer,” sasy Theresa. The penpals always phone at Christmas time so their family can speak with the penpals as well. “People are astonished that we have had this connection all these years,” says Theresa. “It has taught me the value of friendship.” She plans to continue as long as they can.
Penpals for life! Maureen Johnson and Theresa Kowall
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Chemainus in July – Music all the time Chemainus will be a busy place this summer, with a lot more to see than the well-known murals and theatre. The bandstand at Waterwheel Park will be home to no fewer than five music festivals and nine evening concerts this summer. Following the Canada Day activities on July 1st, the first of the Tuesday evening “Music in the Park” concerts will take place on the bandstand. The reggae band Providencia will take to the stage for a wonderful evening’s music. Subsequent Tuesdays in July will feature the great Western Swing band, Howie James and the Howlettes, followed by one of the Island’s favourite bluegrass bands, Bluegrass Fever. Then there will be a special treat for all music-lovers, the Naden Band of the Maritime Forces Pacific. July’s concerts will wrap up with the Hampshire Youth Choir, an amazing group of musical ambassadors all the way from England. Rock and Roll from the fifties will be featured July 12th, when the Chemainus Rockabilly Festival comes to town. The music will be accompanied by a special show of cars and motorcycles from the same period. The following weekend, look for the Alt Music Festival, when bands playing everything from gypsypunk to folk-rock will take to the stage. On July 26 and 27, the two-day Bluegrass Festival will take place, with a wonderful array of bands from the United States and Canada. If that’s not enough music this July, some great bands will also be featured at ArtBeat, an evening celebration of the arts scheduled to take place on the south block of Willow Street on July 11 and July 25. For the full summer’s activities lineup see www.cvcas.com
The 30th Islands Folk Festival The Cowichan Folk Guild presents the 30th Anniversary Islands Folk Festival
The Tishomingo String Band, appearing at the Chemainus Bluegrass Festival July 26-27.
July 18th to 20th at Providence Farm, located just outside the city of Duncan. This celebration of folk music features musicians who perform a variety of music. The performances are held on several stages throughout the grounds of Providence Farm. When you buy a weekend pass to the festival it is like becoming a member of the family for the weekend; only 2000 weekend passes will be sold. Performers include Alpha Yaya Diallo, Cannery Row with Gary Comeau, Chris Chandler & Paul Benoit, the Daniel Lapp Project, Incendio, Locarno, Murray McLauchlan, the Ridley Bent Band, Spirit of the West and many more. New this year: Camping Gates open at 1 PM and Festival Gates open at 3 PM as to not disturb the ongoing programs running on Friday at the Providence Farm. Advance tickets to the Islands Folk Festival are available on line right now. For more information about tickets and camping please go to http://www.islandsfolkfestival.ca/
Summer Long Artists’ Garden & Studio Tour – Ladysmith Arts Council is pleased announce their 1st annual Artists’ Garden Tour. This self guided tour takes you into 10 gardens and studios of local artists who will be
available to share their passion for both gardening and art. The tour runs from June 1 – September 14, 2014. Each artist has set their own times, so visitors are asked pick up a brochure available at many shops and Chambers of Commerce from Cedar to Chemainus. It can also be downloaded at http://goo. gl/32JEes . “Regular garden tours are usually one day or one weekend events,” says Peggy Grigor. “My concept was to open our gardens to the public all season. This way, folks can drop by again and again to see the ever changing wonder of our lush west coast gardens. By inviting customers into the gardens as well as our studios, customers have the opportunity to connect with the artists and learn about their passions and their art work in a whole new way.” During the tour, visit the Waterfront Arts Centre patio garden which was constructed in a reclaimed patch of blackberries by volunteers. Open 7 days a week from noon to 4pm you will be delighted with the art and the garden. To find out more go to www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com and click on The Artists Garden to download a brochure or pick one up at the gallery, or
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tourist centers. Blacksmith artist Anthony Cateaux has launched a new garden collection inspired by elements of nature. He will showcase his work during The Artists Garden Studio Tour. For more information visit https://www.facebook.com/ TheArtistsGardenStudioTour
Glass at In the Beantime Somewhere between Louis Armstrong and Cookie Monster lies the voice of Lonnie Glass. Born in Montreal in 1950, Glass started playing bass in late ‘60’s and songwriting in the early ‘80’s. Glass recorded his first CD in 1990 distributed through MCA Records. He has had seven subsequent releases. Glass will be performing at In the Beantime on July 19.
Les Misérables is Les Awesome Les Misérables playing at the Chemainus Theatre Festival from July 1 – September 7. This musical phenomenon sweeps its audience through an epic tale of passion and destruction in 19th century France. Discover a nation in the grip
Les Mis at the Chemainus Theatre is this summer’s hot number!
of revolution as convict Jean Valjean, on the run and in a fight for his life, sacrifices everything to protect the people he loves. Fight. Dream. Hope. Love. Tickets From $25 Performances Tuesdays to Sundays at 2, 7:30 or 8 PM depending on the day. For more information visit http://chemainustheatrefestival.ca/ or call 250 246-9820
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Sweet summer memories of Transfer Beach BY ROB JOHNSON With The BC Day long weekend and Ladysmith Days fast approaching thoughts of summer fun race through my mind. Transfer Beach has always been a focal point of summer in Ladysmith, with families heading down for a day at the beach or for a picnic on the shore line. Sure there were other places people went to swim such as the mouth of the creek in Arcady or down at Smelter Beach, but it was Transfer Beach where the action was. Prior to the mid 60’s Transfer Beach, didn’t look anything like it does now. There was no grass or greenbelt, in fact it was basically surrounded by large piles of coal slack, topped with blackberry bushes with trails leading to the beach. Yet hundreds of people would work their way down to the beach. We have Mayor Kay Grouhel and her Council to thank for what we have today. As Mayor, she got Canadian Pacific Railway to agree to sell to the Town 17 acres of land which is now Transfer Beach Park. She managed to negotiate a deal for 80 per cent of the origiEarly photo of Transfer Beach. Photo courtesy of Ladysmith Archives. Bathing beauties by the Transfer Wharf Lois Allen, Earleyne Mulroney, Eilene Bayer.
nal asking price by wheeling and dealing that included a land swap. Once the Town owned the land, she arranged to get heavy equipment and operator trainees from what used to be the Malaspina heavy duty school to clean up the site and reshape the land from weeds to what we have now. It was such a point of pride that in 1971, the Town invited Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, to enjoy the beauty of the park along with numerous activities such as logger sports (during their Royal Visit to Canada). Once it became a park, things really began to happen. Better changing rooms and wash room facilities were built. Lifeguards were installed, and rafts were built. These rafts were basically the territory of the teenagers. The guys would strut their stuff, and line up for the diving boards so the guys could show off. One of the rafts had a small building on it that housed a rescue boat for the lifeguards. The life guards had to swim out to the
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raft every morning in the cold water to get the boat for use during the day before having to return it and lock it up for the night. Prior to the installation of the life guards, it was the adults and the older kids that kept a watchful eye out for the safety of the little kids and others who were out swimming. The smaller children usually lined the shore playing with a collection of floating material such as logs or any other large flotsam. Teenagers usually went through a passage of youth, by diving off the Transfer Wharf. As they got older and braver, they built up courage and would climb the dreaded tower on the wharf, some 40 feet above the water. Once you reach the top you would be accompanied by a few brave girls and a score of boys mustering up their courage to jump off. Jumping was OK , some of the bravest would actually dive from the tower. Once you made your way to the tower it was expected that you would dive or jump, and if you didn’t, it wasn’t uncommon to be pushed off. After, you hit the water you descended deeper and deeper, the water got darker and darker, and colder and colder. If you touched bottom you would push off with your feet and swim to the surface. Usually by this time your lungs were getting low on air and you were starting to panic, and as you broke through the surface you would gulp in your next breath of air, and sigh in relief. The one thing you didn’t want to do was “belly flop” from that height. One old timer told me about his belly flop experience; he said he was black and blue for weeks. Transfer Beach was the focal point of summer. Often it would start with $5.00 swimming lessons starting on the May long weekend. Darlene Harlow, tells of how her mother corralled all the kids and pushed a baby carriage all the way from the Diamond and back, so they could freeze in the cold water of the bay while “enjoying” their lessons. Others, who lived closer, would find their way down to the beach every day, and they would spend the day there. Eilene Bayer (Thornely) tells how she, my sister Earleyne Johnson (Mulroney), Lois Ulinder, (Allen} and Colleen Clarkson (Davis), would pack a lunch and fill a jar with “Freshie” loaded with ice and go to “their” spot on the beach. They would spend the whole day there, only leav-
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ing to go home for dinner before returning later that night after doing their chores. The comforts of the beach were basically nonexistent. There is debate as to whether there were actually washrooms at the beach. If there were any, they were just outhouses. There was an old shack that was used by some as a changing room, but it was peppered with a number of “knot” holes that didn’t offer those changing the best of privacy There are unconfirmed stories of a fresh water shower down on the beach shoreline, and others say it was water from an old watering tower used to water the trains. Over the August long weekend the Town will be putting lifeguards on duty for the Ladysmith Days weekend, but there still won’t be a raft. The Ladysmith Rotary Club was working on a plan to create a sand beach 20 to 30 feet wide, so that bathers could lie on a nice sandy beach, but unfortunately it had to be shelved. Many old timers, and new residents to town have expressed a desire for the Town to reinstate the swimming raft, with or without lifeguards . A raft, and the sandy beach project would make our beach a more desirable destination for swimming for both our residents and visitors alike. Transfer Beach has changed from a small rocky area next to a railway transfer wharf to a real recreational gem, featuring a kids water park, concession stand, washroom and changing rooms, green open spaces, basketball court, volleyball court, horse shoe pitch, kayak rentals and amphitheatre. If we were to add lifeguards and a swimming raft, along with a stretch of beach sand, can you imagine what a world class spot this could be? We already have the warmest ocean water north of San Francisco.
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July 1-5 1-5, Summer Long Artists” Garden & Studio Tour, this self guided tour takes you into ten gardens and studios of local artists who will be available to share their passion for both gardening and art. 250-416-1411 1-5, 8pm, “Les Misérables”, an epic tale of passion and destruction in 19th century France, Chemainus Theatre Festival 250-246-9820 1, Canada Day Celebrations, Family fun, entertainment and cake, Transfer Beach Park, 250-245-6427 1, Canada Day Festival, Free family fun. Music by Bopoma Marimba, Waterwheel Park, Chemainus 250-416-2465 1, 7pm, Music in the Park - Providencia one of Colombia’s best reggae/ska bands Waterwheel Park Chemainus 2-4, 8am, Ladysmith Adventure Zone Summer Daycamp, for ages 6-12 with new longer hours, FJCC 810 6th Ave. 250-245-6424 4-5, 12th annual 2014 Save On Foods Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival. It’s WET. It’s WILD. It’s a weekend of fun for the entire family! Maffeo Sutton Park
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5, 6pm, Emerald Sparks, In the Beantime Cafe, 18 High St. 250-245-2305
July 6-12 6-10am, Cedar Farmers mkt., Cedar 6-12, 8pm, “Les Misérables”, an epic tale of passion and destruction in 19th century France, Chemainus Theatre Festival 250-246-9820 6-12, Summer Long Artists” Garden & Studio Tour, self guided tour takes you into ten gardens and studios of local artists who will be available to share their passion for both gardening and art. 250-416-1411 6, 12th Annual 2014 Save On Foods Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival. It’s WET. It’s WILD. It’s a weekend of fun for the entire family! Maffeo Sutton Park
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12, Chemainus Rockabilly Festival a great day of rockabilly music, Waterwheel Park Chemainus 250- 246-3944
July 13-19 13-10am, Cedar Farmers mkt., Cedar 13-19, Summer Long Artists” Garden & Studio Tour, self guided tour takes you into ten gardens and studios of local artists who will be available to share their passion for both gardening and art. 250-416-1411 13-19, 8pm, “Les Misérables”, an epic tale of passion and destruction in 19th century France, Chemainus Theatre Festival 250-246-9820 13, 10am, Ladysmith vs Chemainus Legion Golf Tournament, it’s the battle of the Legions, Ladysmith Golf Course
6, 6pm, Concerts in the Park – Jesse Roper, Admission by donation, Transfer Beach Amphitheatre 250-245-3079
13, 11am, Brits on the Beach, is the Old English Car Club’s (Central Island Branch) greatest event of the year. Transfer Beach Park, 250-741-0221
7-11, 8am, Ladysmith Adventure Zone Summer Daycamp, for ages 6-12 with new longer hours, FJCC 810 6th Ave. 250-245-6424
13, 6pm, Concerts in the Park – Russ Rosen Band, Admission by donation, Transfer Beach Amphitheatre 250-245-3079
7-11, 9:30am, Broadway Bound 2014 Childrens Theatre workshop ages 7-10, Ladysmith Little Theatre 250-245-7227
14-18, I Dreamed a Dream – Youth Theatre Camp, Chemainus Theatre Festival 250-246-9820
8-2pm, Ladysmith Farmers mkt., Transfer Beach, 250-245-2112
14-18, 9:30 am, Broadway Bound 2014 Children’s Theatre workshop ages 7-10, Ladysmith Little Theatre 250-245-7227
5, 8am, Giant Street Market, downtown Chemainus is closed to traffic with 120+ vendors 250- 246-3944
8, 7pm, Music in the Park –Howie James & the Howlettes a western swing group. Waterwheel Park Chemainus 250- 246-3944
14-18, 8 am, Ladysmith Adventure Zone Summer Daycamp, for ages 6-12 with new longer hours, FJCC 810 6th Ave. 250-245-6424
5, 8am, Large Yard Sale, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre 250-246-2111
11, 5pm, ArtBeat Street Party, dancing in the street to the Moonriders, art displays, shopping and dining. cvcas.com
15-2pm, Ladysmith Farmers mkt., Transfer Beach, 250-245-2112
4, 12pm, “Fishy” this could mean something fishy or fish in the ocean or streams all month at the Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery 250-245-1252
5, 9am, Huge Neighborhood garage sale, Town & Country M.H.P. 10980 Westdowne Rd. Also crafts, a piano, an organ and a hot dog sale. 5, 10am, Gutbuster Trail Run, if you are taking on the challenge of the Long Course you can expect a 15min lung busting climb to Heart Lake. Race starts at Transfer Beach 250-245-6414
11, 6pm, Sean Ashby, In the Beantime Cafe, 18 High St. 250-245-2305 12, 11am, 7th Annual Golf Tournament for Cowichan Valley Hospice, Cowichan Golf and Country Club, 4955 TransCanada Hwy, Duncan, 250.701.4242 or events.cvhs@shaw.ca
15, 7pm, Music in the Park – Bluegrass Fever plays one of music’s sweetest genres, Waterwheel Park Chemainus 250- 246-3944 18-20, 6pm, Island Folk Festival, celebrates it’s 30th anniversary, Providence Farm Duncan islandsfolkfestival.ca 18-19, Men’s Provincials Fastball Tourney,
Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 250-245-722-2422
22-2pm, Ladysmith Farmers mkt., Transfer Beach, 250-245-2112
19, Music Trivia & Pub Dinner, Royal Canadian Legion, 171, 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273
22, 7:00pm, Ladysmith Camera Club, Explore and expand your photography with us, Hardwick Hall 228 High Street, Ladysmith, www. LadysmithCameraClub.com
19, Lonnie Glass, In the Beantime Cafe, 18 High St. 250-245-2305
July 20-26 20-10am, Cedar Farmers mkt., Cedar 20-26, Summer Long Artists” Garden & Studio Tour, self guided tour takes you into ten gardens and studios of local artists who will be available to share their passion for both gardening and art. 250-416-1411 20-26, 8pm, “Les Misérables”, an epic tale of passion and destruction in 19th century France, Chemainus Theatre Festival 250-246-9820 20, Men’s Provincials Fastball Tourney, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 250-245-722-2422 20, 6pm, Concerts in the Park – Headwater w/ Jonas Shandel, Admission by donation, Transfer Beach Amphitheatre 250-245-3079 21-25, 8am, Ladysmith Adventure Zone Summer Daycamp, for ages 6-12 with new longer hours, FJCC 810 6th Ave. 250-245-6424 22, 7pm, Music in the Park –Naden Band of Maritime Forces Pacific jazz, swing. Latin and much more. Waterwheel Park Chemainus 250246-3944
25-26, Slow Pitch Season Ender, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 250-245-7222422 25, 5pm, ArtBeat Street Party, dancing in the street to the Moonriders, art displays, shopping and dining. cvcas.com 26, 11am, The British Columbia Government Retired Employees Association will hold its Annual Summer Picnic, Transfer Beach 250-716-3506 26, Chemainus Bluegrass Festival, Two magical days of bluegrass music on Vancouver Island Waterwheel Park Chemainus 250- 246-3944 26, 7pm, Dance to the sounds of Dan Hughes & Seniors, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre 250-246-2111
July 27-31 27-10am, Cedar Farmers mkt., Cedar 27-31, Summer Long Artists” Garden & Studio Tour, self guided tour takes you into ten gardens and studios of local artists who will be available to share their passion for both gardening and art. 250-416-1411
27-31, 8pm, “Les Misérables”, an epic tale of passion and destruction in 19th century France, Chemainus Theatre Festival 250-246-9820 27, Slow Pitch Season Ender, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 250-245-722-2422 27, 6 pm, Concerts in the Park – Bill Johnson, Admission by donation, Transfer Beach Amphitheatre 250-245-3079 27, 7 pm General Meeting Royal Canadian Legion, 171, 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273 28-31, 8 am, Ladysmith Adventure Zone Summer Daycamp, for ages 6-12 with new longer hours, FJCC 810 6th Ave. 250-245-6424 28-31, 9:30 am, Broadway Bound 2014 Children’s Theatre workshop ages 11-13, Ladysmith Little Theatre 250-245-7227 29, 7pm, Music in the Park –The Hampshire Youth Choir musical ambassadors from England. Waterwheel Park Chemainus 250- 246-3944 29-2pm, Ladysmith Farmers mkt., Transfer Beach, 250-245-2112 Clockwise: Les Misérables at Chemainus Theatre, Cedar Farmers Markets, Sundays, Brits on the Beach, July 13, Hank Angel, featured performaer at the Chemainus Rockabilly Festival on July 12, Concerts in the Park, Sundays, Ladymith Amphitheatre, Island Folk, Providence Farm, July 18-20
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CVRD - Area H Boundary expansion | Library Services | Wildfire Protection Tips Earlier this year, the Town of Ladysmith conducted an Alternate Approval Process regarding the Couverdon Boundary Expansion application to allow lands owned by TimberWest that are currently within the Cowichan Valley Regional District jurisdiction to be taken into the Town. Because the Town failed to achieve the necessary public support through the Alternate Approval Process, Council is now pondering setting a date to undertake a formal referendum process on behalf of the developer. Prior to setting a date for the referendum, Town Council requested that a report on our local watershed, and associated water supply concerns be prepared. After the report is received by Council likely in mid July, and they have had time to discuss and consider the report, a firm date for the referendum will likely be set. I recognize that this is a very contentious issue that has a large impact upon not only residents of the Town, but also residents of the surrounding rural areas. I will keep you posted as information on the report and the referendum date becomes available. Vancouver Island Regional Library: You may not be aware that the Vancouver Island Region Library serves
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over 430,000 people on Vancouver Island, Haida Gwaii and Bella Coola on the Central Coast. The services are provided through a variety of methods including 39 branch library facilities, a virtual branch accessed electronically and a books-by-mail service. You may also not know that VIRL is the fourth largest library system in British Columbia. One program that may be of interest to you is the eLibrary service. If you hold a valid Vancouver Island Regional Library Card, you can check out books, music and movies without leaving your home, anytime – night or day – at no cost. While I have used the library for years as a borrower, as a recently appointed member of the Library Board, I am amazed at all the services, programs and learning opportunities that are available. There are lot of activities happening in the libraries that will be of interest to children & adults of all ages including everything from the Summer Reading Club to the Spanish Conversation Club. Visit www.virl.bc.ca - to learn more. Wildfire Protection Tips: Now that the dry summer season is upon us, I would like to share some tips on mitigating potential fire hazards near your home and outbuildings. If you wish to create a wildfire safety zone, you must first start with a general assessment of existing hazards. If you see places with a lot of downed branches, needles and un-
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derbrush, make a note to do a clean-up of the areas. Firewood should be moved to at least 10 metres uphill from your home. If your home and/or buildings are on a slope, extend the safe zone on the downside of the hill as well – since fire tends to race uphill. We all love the trees that are part of our rural environment, but they can also be problematic. Trees and branches should be thinned to within 30 meters of your home. Removing tree and brush growing under taller trees and pruning branches within 8 feet of the ground will help to prevent a wildfire from spreading. Lawns in rural areas dry out very quickly. Gasoline powered lawn mowers and weed trimmers have the potential to start grass fires which can spread very quickly. Keep a hose and nozzle handy. If you are doubtful about your water supply or water pressure, have a large barrel and pail in a strategic place or places. And you should ensure that your well pump is not at risk during a fire. Have a good look around your property with an eye to preventing fires before they even start. It may take time and effort, but it could make a huge difference in an emergency. If you would like more information on fire prevention, go on the CVRD website – www.cvrd.bc.ca.
CVRD Area G Possible school purchase During the past three months there have been three public meetings to discuss the possible purchase of the old Mt Brenton School on South Oyster School Road. These were exploratory meetings to see how the community felt about the idea. The property has been central to the community needs for 60 years when it was a school and playground for community ball games and soccer games. Public functions were held there as the community rented the facility for meetings, etc. It was the only meeting place in Saltair after Gilly Hooper’s hall closed down which was located behind
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and beside Byron’s store. The school closed in 2002 when it was found that there were not enough students to keep it going in an economic manner. In 2004 the CVRD rented the school and Rene Beaudin, the former CVRD director, with several residents tried to run the building as a community centre. There didn’t seem to be enough interest at that time to make it worthwhile to purchase the school plus the price was quite high. In 2005 the school district sold the school to a private corporation for about $650,000 to finance the operation of the school district. One of the purchasers, John Dove, was going to remodel the school and run it as seniors’ care home. He already owned a care home in Chemainus called Dove Hill so it seemed that it could fit the community needs. For some reason he never really got going on the project. Over the years the corporation put the school and its property of five and a half acres for sale at a starting price of $725,000 in 2011. Since then the price has plummeted, first to $550,000, then to $425,000 and now to $367,000. That’s when it peaked the interest of the CVRD saying maybe this price makes the purchase more possible in the low $300,000’s and meet the community’s needs. The public meetings explored possible uses isting up to 32 possible activities that could be done in the building. It became apparent the community didn’t want a full scale regular community centre for mainly two reasons. The first being that most of activities could be done in Chemainus or Ladysmith and the second being that it would be too costly for operations. So why buy the building then? The first reason is that we need a community meeting place that Saltarians can meet and share ideas
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so they can feel part of being a unique community as we have for many years. Otherwise just double the taxes (maybe 50 per cent higher) and move the boundaries of Ladysmith and North Cowichan to dissolve Saltair altogether. I think most residents agree that we are especially unique and want to remain independent. The building can still continue to run as a child care centre as it is today. A non profit society could run it with little cost to the community. The most important reason for buying the property is for the five and a half acres of extra parkland to add to Centennial Park. This works out to about $55,000 an acre. A one acre lot across the road is for sale at $229,000 and a third of an acre lot on Wilcox is $146,000 for comparison. If your quarter lot was for sale in Saltair, would you sell it for $16,000? I don’t think so. Generations later residents will thank us for making this acquisition if we do it now. Imagine if Len Platt hadn’t started acquiring land to form Stocking Creek Park or Mrs. Dornbosch hadn’t donated land to begin Princess Diana Wilderness Park? Saltair would certainly not be the same as it is today. Before purchasing, a first stage asbestos study will done to see if it is an issue and also a building inspection. Demolition costs will also be determined in the event the building needs to be decreased in size or torn down. This may be the first time the CVRD has ever purchased a specific piece of land and gone out to the public to discuss it ahead of time. RDN Area A Director Notes were not available by presstime.. Please check next month for an update from Alec McPherson
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Float like a Butterfly As a kid one of my favourite spring and summer activities was finding and capturing monarch butterfly larvae and then raising them in a glass gallon jar with a lid that had small holes for air. Everyday I’d gather fresh milkweed leaves for the larva and watch it grow. The jar also had a twig in it and when the time was right the larva would find a good spot on the stick and transform into an emerald green pupa (chrysalis) with golden yellow and black dots in a partial ring near the top. At this point we would take the stick out of the jar and place it on the table – sometimes by itself and other times in a vase with
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flowers. It took about two weeks for the butterfly to emerge from the pupa, and I always hoped to be around when that happened. The emerging from the pupa takes a few hours. As the time got close for emerging the wings became visible inside the chrysalis and that was the cue to take the stick outside unless you wanted a butterfly flying around the house. (Yes it did happen a few times.) The butterfly emerged from the chrysalis and the wings gradually unfurled, dried and hardened. The butterfly was then ready to fly off in search of sustenance. While we don’t typically have monarchs here the process is similar for other butterflies. Butterflies can be given a helping hand by thinking of them when designing or modifying the garden. Adults typically feed on nectar so choosing plants with nectar and scent are a great option. The phlox in my garden is a great attractant as is stonecrop, honeysuckle, aster and yarrow. Buddleia or butterfly bush is also good though in certain conditions it can get weedy. In addition to nectar, adults also need water and minerals which they typically get from wet soil or the edges of mud puddles. This be-
haviour in entomological circles is known as puddling. They may also be attracted to and extract some nutrients from moist ground where an animal has urinated or to salt from sweat. Butterflies also like sheltered sunny areas for basking. Basking helps butterflies (and other exothermic or “cold blooded” creatures) warm their muscles for activities such as flight. They may also vibrate their flight muscles (akin to shivering) to increase their body temperatures. But if the temperatures are cool they usually remain inactive. Butterflies employ a variety of techniques to make it through winter. Most Top to bottom: Western Tiger Swallowtail. Anise Swallowtail Photo: Jay. Rastogi Satyr Comma Photo: Bruce Hepburn
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over-winter in the larval stage, such as the Lorquin’s Admiral which curls itself into a leaf to form a protective hibernaculam; and some as pupae, such as the Gray Hairstreak. The Pine White over-winters in the egg stage while others such as the Mourning Cloak over-winters as an adult. For those that stay here during winter as egg, larvae, pupae or adult their over-wintering habitat is critical. Plant stems, branch piles and leaf litter are all important habitat. Mourning cloaks are occasionally found under loose bark on trees. Other butterflies such as the Painted Lady prefer to migrate for the winter. Butterflies are quite susceptible to insecticides and this is probably one factor in the decline of monarchs. The main factor limiting butterfly abundance is probably the availability of food plants for the larvae. Monarch larvae only eat milkweed. Those species whose larvae feed on a variety of plants or feed on plants with wide distribution and with good abundance do well. Others are specific to one species only and their fate hinges on their host species. Some common host
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species locally include stinging nettle (for Red Admirals, West Coast Lady and Milbert’s Tortoiseshell), poplars and willows (for Western Tiger Swallowtail) and red alder (for Pale Swallowtail and Lorquin’s Admiral). There are quite a few resources online and in print available to help identify butterflies as well as to help gardeners from balcony to large acreage gardens create features which will attract and aid butterfly abundance and diversity. The season for butterfly watching is upon us. Their flitting flight from flower to flower takes me back to my carefree childhood summers. Jay Rastogi is a naturalist and educator living in Yellow Point. ecoforestry@gmail.com
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The May Day Parade It’s been 60 years now since “The Incident” and finally, finally, I received my pardon from City Hall. I am now allowed to attend the town’s May Day parade. On that fateful day six long decades ago, it wasn’t my intention to embarrass not only my family but also the May Queen to whom I have been sending apologies every May Day since then. “A precipitous act on the spur of the moment,” my lawyer said, noting at the time I was the only five year old in the history of Vancouver Island to require a lawyer. You must understand, at that age I had a mass of blonde curly hair (since departed) and was regarded by many as cute, although repeatedly warned by my mother not to act that way. Because of my appearance, and because even at that age, I looked good in a Little Lord Fauntleroy costume, (Frilly white silk shirt over black velour shorts with suspenders.) I was chosen to be the pageboy for the town’s May Day celebrations. The page boy’s responsibilities primarily involved holding the Queen of May’s cape. That she was a hot 15 year old didn’t escape me. Even then, I was fascinated by compound reverse curves and as I stood behind her on the float, bored to tears, wondering why they were waving like brain damaged individuals, the male part of my brain, which is unfortunately all of it, sent me a message. “Lift up her skirt,” it said. “This is the only chance you’ll get to check out her butt.” So I did. Right in the middle of town, maybe 20,000 people in attendance. It takes a lot to get banned from a parade for 60 years, but that did it. But what the heck, let bygones be bygones; my debt to society has been paid in full, time to enjoy the parade. And I must say, it started off with a bang. Well maybe not a bang, but lots of bells, sirens and whistles from fire trucks and a pudgy cop on a wheezing Harley. Next up was our mayor, in the back of a convertible where all could plainly see that waving hadn’t improved much in the last 60 years. I don’t know what it is about putting someone on a float or the back of a convertible, but it makes them all wave like the Queen. That would be from the elbow, with cupped hand slow-
“A precipitous act on the spur of the moment,” my lawyer said, noting at the time I was the only five year old in the history of Vancouver Island to require a lawyer. ly going back and forth like a heavily medicated dippy do bird. If you find yourself in this position, waving to a crowd, my suggestion, and remember this comes from an ex-page boy, is to pump your arm in the air (think Village People) and wave with the wrist, not from the elbow. Though the waving had not changed, the parade had, and not for the better. First off, there were only a handful of floats, and many of the participants were in street clothes, not costume or uniform. Too, there were political entrants. In the old days, if you wanted to make the town feel guilty about the plight of the spotted, cross- gendered , albino, mountain gerbil, the May Day celebrations were not the place. The only participants who looked exactly the same were the military cadets who were still spindle thin and nerdy, more suitable for double entry bookkeeping than storming a machine gun nest. The same cadets who at this very moment are feeding my coordinates into their field gun’s computer. Incredibly, right in the middle of the parade was a Dodd’s Furniture and Mattress delivery van with not so much as a balloon on the grill to justify its presence. Now maybe, just maybe, the van was on a delivery, made the wrong turn, and got in the parade line up by mistake. Yeah, and maybe the mayor doesn’t wave like a dippy do bird. That the organizers were scrambling for entrants became obvious mid-parade. There was the Kennel club. Not only were none of the dog owners dressed up, neither were half the dogs. And what
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happened to the time honoured rule of all parades, that the animals be placed at the rear, as well as being accompanied with their own clean up unit appropriately attired? Still feeling guilty after all these years, I wanted to help the parade back to its former glory. But how? The answer came while flipping through the parade rules. There was a prize for BEST CLEAN UP UNIT. (Not making this up.) Ah ha! We’ll call ourselves the Crapaholics, a fast stepping, crowd-pleasing, excrement-shoveling quintet of organic matter removal specialists. Motto: Streets clean enough to lick. Of course we’d have snappy uniforms. (I’ve already asked McDonald’s if we could borrow some of theirs.) And “Work Smart, Work Safe,” gas masks that can be flipped into place while we worked. The key to our success will be our shovels, which will be flat bladed, light in weight, and when not shoveling, will be used like batons in a patented twirling motion nicknamed “the propeller”, which will pull us up the street towards the next, ah , deposit. Now I’m going to need help with this, which is why I’m auditioning for four, quick stepping guys who look good in stolen McDonald’s uniforms. Message to all females: sorry not to be all inclusive ladies, but some of those bull mastiffs in the Kennel Club require heavy shoveling. Besides, what woman wouldn’t want to be on the sideline, proudly exclaiming to bystanders, “That’s my husband, second propeller to the left.” Of course, the biggest decision when putting together a crack excrement removal squad is, not the uniforms, not the choreographed dance moves—although don’t get me wrong, all of that is important—it’s what to do with the poop when it’s scooped. My idea, and the councilmen are in favour, is to dump it in the mayor’s convertible. If that won’t get him to stop waving like a dippy do bird, nothing will. For rehydration after a long hot parade, try a bottle of Pasqua Valpolicella Superior (Italy) $24.95 - Delbert is the co-proprietor at Mahle House Restaurant in Cedar. Read more of his articles at Slightlycorkedandmore. wordpress.com
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BC’s Marine Trails Network raises first sign BY PAUL GREY The BC Marine Trails Network celebrated the building of a world class initiative for British Columbia. On June 21st, approximately 85 paddlers and supporters of the BC Marine Trails from all over Vancouver Island and the lower mainland converged in a huge flotilla of kayaks, canoes, and other small boats, on a newly established BC Marine Trails campsite. Once there, they raised the BC Marine Trails’ first sign – to be followed by an increasing number of others throughout the summer. Poten-
tially the longest water trail in the world, there is no sign of completion yet, as the BC coastline is 27,000 km in its entire length! The BC Marine Trails Network is designed to maintain access to marine waterways that were first used by First Nations thousands of years ago. Still using these same routes, recreational paddlers and other small boat users of today have joined the First Nations on BC’s marine ways. Because of growing pressures from commercial and private interests however, continued access to launch-
ing areas and campsites is increasingly threatened. So in partnership with BC’s Recreation Sites and Trails Branch, and with the collaboration and support of BC Parks and National Parks, the BC Marine Trails Network Association is building a legacy project for BC. By working to secure access points and campsites, it also secures the continued travel of the province’s marine recreation corridor by small boat users. The destination of the June 21st flotilla was the newly established BC Marine Trails Recreation Site at Musgrave Point on Salt Spring Island. A renowned world class paddling destination, the Southern Gulf Islands has an abundance of locations for paddlers and boaters to explore, visit, or camp. This area’s high popularity and ease of access is the reason it has been chosen to receive the first signs. The BCMTNA is a non profit, volunteer run society. Visit us at www.bcmarinetrails.org to see a comprehensive interactive map of the BCMT sites to date, and also more information about the recent sign raising. Please contact Paul Grey at info@bcmarinetrails.org for more information or call 250-722-3586.
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Learn to sail this summer The Sail Training Program at Nanaimo Yacht Club! (NYC) has recently expanded its programming. NYC is recognized for offering superior quality programs to the public. Membership is not required and programs run for beginner to advanced sailors. Children ages 5-7 are gently introduced to sailing, sea life and salt water safety in the Wetfeet Program. Sailors gain skills and confidence while moving through the CANSail Program- ages 7-12 in the Optimist, ages 12+ and adults in the Club 420- two sails and the poten-
tial for trapeze and spinnaker work. After the lessons you can keep sailing with their Recreational Sailing and Racing programs offering a fun sail or a friendly race running Wednesdays 4:156pm and Sundays 1-4pm, July to Sept. Summer’s over? NYC’s Dinghy Sailing Team (ages 8-adult) offers after school and weekend training and competition Sept-Nov and April-June. For more information visit www.nanaimoyc.ca Contact Jill Christie-Sailing Program Coordinator nycsailtraining@ gmail.com 250-618-1549
Dine on the docks continues The Ladysmith Maritime Society’s Dine on the Docks features guest chefs serving up good food on the waterfront. The series continues July 11 and 25, August 8 and 22 and September 5 and 19. Tickets are just $15 and available at the Welcome Centre or call 250-924-2245.
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CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS HANDCRAFTED GEMSTONE NECKLACES. Jade, garnet, lapis, aventurine and more! $20 each. See jewellery table at Campers Corner Saturday flea market, 8am-3pm. 250-245-3829 SPECIAL EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHY Don’t trust just anyone! We have years of experience from weddings, family portraits to glamour and corporate clients. Free photo book included of your images. Email for quote and portfolio. marinasacht@yahoo.ca or call 250-245-9165 GYPSY ANGEL FEMALE VOCALIST & ENTERTAINER. Sings for ceremonies, provides music, entertainment, equipment and/or DJ services. Offering KARAOKE for business/private party bookings. Affordable rates. Sample my music www.gypsy-angel.com 250-924-4924 SUMMER HALF DAYCAMP 1:00 - 4:00 pm at Cedar United Church in south Nanaimo one week only August 18 -22. Free for children 5 - 10 years. Enjoy games, crafts, stories, drama, puppets and friends. Everyone welcome. Phone Cindy 250245-5778 EDUCATION SOPYP LTD Full day camps for School Aged Children nature programming, arts/crafts, hiking picnicking, building, music, games and more! Full time, part time and drop-in spots Lic#CDEN97JQWB www.senseofplaceyp.com 250-6183396 FIDDLE MUSIC CAMP August 10-15 located in south Nanaimo off Spruston Road. Fiddle, Cello, Guitar, Mandolin, Keyboard, Classical Violin. For ages 6-96. Small groups for beginners, intermediates and advanced. Stay at camp or dayonly options. Ph. Trish or Geoff 250-802-8863 or nanaimosummerstringscamp.com
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HEALTH & BEAUTY 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 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 TAI CHI - For mental and physical health. Beginner class starts September and January, Mondays; ongoing class Wednesdays. Both classes 10 am-noon, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 McMillan Road. $20/mo. Sara 250-245-1466 or www.nanaimotaichi.org HOME & YARD 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 more 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 & EXTERIOR. Quote by JOB not by the HOUR. www.islandkingrenos.com 250-924-4924 WEEKLY OR BY- 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. QUALITY RENOVATIONS Big or small. 25 yrs exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate call Lars. 250-616-1800
JULY 2014
AJ”s PLUMBING AND GAS Licensed-BondedInsured. Service-Installations-Renovation-New construction. Quality workmanship. No travel charges. Free estimates. On time every time. Serving Ladysmith, Chemainus and south to Duncan. 250-802-7123 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. THE HAPPY GARDENER. Weeding, Digging, Raking, Cutting back, etc. Mature and Steady Worker. Cheerful and Conscientious. Call David at 250-722-3599. I also do Window Washing and Odd Jobs LADYBUG’s MEW…for Meticulous Garden Care. Call “Farmer Doug” @ 250-713-9682. “I’ll give your weeds a root awakening!” MINI EXCAVATOR for lease or rent by day, week or month Reasonable rates. 250-246-6624 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 250-740KATS (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- 250245-0151 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 home boarding for companion parrots, all sizes. Shuttle, long stays, group rates, your cages or ours. Preboarding visits welcome. Diana and Kip Slater 250-722-2201 www. toocrazybirdyhotel.com F.E.A.T.H.E.R.S. Member. SENIORS SENIORS HELPER mature RCS will assist with bathing, meals, medications, light housework, respite, very caring, honest, reliable and fun, Excellent references 250-924-7084 FOR RENT OFFICE SPACES Downtown Ladysmith, modern, reasonable rent or lease. 250-245-3395 UNIQUE BACHELOR SUITE. Main level with bed nook, shared laundry and workshop. Private yard and garden. Off street Parking. Sm cat or dog negotiable. Only 50+, responsible, quiet, non-smoking person need apply. $400 + share of utilities. 778-908-7788 (Ladysmith) APARTMENT FOR RENT Now available. Seniors 53 2bdr well maintained 1000 sq.ft., newly updated cupboards, new carpet, repainted W/DF/S-N/P’s-N/S. Storage and parking. 250-2454062, 250-758-5816 COTTAGE IN THE COUNTRY - Quiet acreage in North Oyster just 7 minutes to Ladysmith and 15 minutes to Nanaimo. Two storey cottage with private deck. Suitable for one person. No smokersi $650 month plus $50 utilities. Includes satellite TV movie channels, WII, and hydro. References required. Short term or longer term, furnished or unfurnished. Available October 1 or in September. 250-245-9165 or email marinasacht@yahoo.ca for photos. FOR SALE GLENNA’S GARDEN GLASS – eclectic mix of oneof-a-kind up-cycled items. Bird baths & feeders, totems, lighting, decorations and dishes. Glenna 250-245-7010 or email Glenna@GlennasOffice.com MEN’S RH GOLF CLUBS John Letters steel shaft irons 3 – sand wedge includes 3, 5 woods, putter and carry bag $ 75. 250-245-3103 2007 CHEVROLET COBALT 4 door, automatic, low milage, CD & MP3, excellent working condition asking $ 6,500.00 OBO to view call 250-245-8340 WANTED Volunteers needed! Ladysmith Maritime Society is a vibrant community group whose volunteers restore heritage boats, maintain the marina, prepare meals and greet visitors. Join us and have fun. Contact admin@lmsmarina.ca
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