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Jim Szasz pictured here by the Rainbow crosswalk on First Ave. Szasz is concerned that the crosswalk surface was not properly prepared before the paint was applied which has caused the paint to deteriorate within a year. Photo: Allen McDermid.
Walk the talk Nice reply from Diana Haracker to Mike Gogo’s comment in TAKE 5, JUNE 2018, on Kinder Morgan. She wrote: “Not everyone can afford greener options ...” and Mr. Gogo should well be aware of that. In a province where more than 100,000 people out of a population of 3.5 million depend on a food bank for their next meal, an individual can only do so much in his effort to have less impact on the environment and still be able to have a life. Not everybody has the option to buy a brand new electric vehicle and scrap their old beater that takes them to their $15-an-hour job. Not everyone can outfit their (rental) home with the latest generation solar panels or do a massive upgrade of the envelope of their (rented) house to make it more energy efficient. At some point, it is the government that has to give direction. The federal government seems very hesitant to divest from the petro state. It refuses to acknowledge the massive potential that Canada has for renewable energy sources. The rapid (global) decline of biodiversity, food security, resiliency of ecosystems, access to clean water and increase in unpredictable weather
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patterns and natural disasters, and all connected to that, the decline of geopolitical stability, seem still not clear enough warnings. Our policymakers should seriously start transitioning away from the resource extracting economy to a more sustainable, healthier and democratic form. It may hurt the super rich or shy off foreign investors, but at least it would benefit Canadian communities, including the Indigenous Peoples who are still too often part of the overburden with resource extraction activities by the multinational corporations subsidized by our government. Even the boom and bust economy that is caused by the volatile oil and gas prices doesn’t seem a concern enough for our leaders to start looking for a more stable and reliable foundation to build our economy on. By throwing billions of dollars to develop the oil sands, including the expansion of pipelines and tanker terminals, the government not only expects that there will be a market for the dirtiest forms of fossil fuels decades from now, it actually makes sure that there is. Once
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the infrastructure is there, we have to use it to earn the investment back and that will keep the price of refined dilbit fuels artificially low to compete against tidal, wind and solar power. This will also keep the big energy players firm in their seats while sprouting new initiatives face extra challenges to develop. This in turn trickles down to the middle and lower class consumer who then can only afford to live their lives depending on fossil fuels — for their jobs, for their food, for their transportation, for their housing. Unless, Mr. Gogo, do you provide your employees alternatives for lowering their carbon footprint in their work and private life? - Barry Wijnandts Letters to the Editor are welcome but may be edited for space, clarity or legality. This is an open forum and opinions expressed here do not necessarily represent those of TAKE 5 or its affiliates. editor@take5.ca, PO Box 59, Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A1, or fax: 250-2457099 Facebook: Take5Publications
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And the Winner of the Oil War Could be…Knotley.
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Run, bike, or paddle. Home Town Tourist Weekend offers a host of events including the HillDash, plus discounts on electric bike tours and kayaking. Brianna Day, Jonah Woodhouse, Kelly Demoline at Transfer beach Park. Photo: Marina Sacht
It’s time for the 8th Annual “Hometown Tourist Weekend,” June 15–17, 2018. Spearheaded by TAKE 5, in partnership with local groups, businesses and community-minded individuals, this campaign offers an opportunity for residents and visitors to discover local attractions, activities, shops and services. Some of the activities planned with special offers include harbour boat tours, kayaking, golfing, bike tours discounts on admission to pool, sauna and gym at FJCC. Local restaurants will also be offering specials on menu items. New this year is the “Wolf Walk in the Forest.” This walk gives participants the opportunity to walk with Gary Allan and his wolf Tundra and see nature up close. Please note that this event has restrictions for safety reasons — NO PETS AND CHILDREN UNDER 6. Cindy Damphousse, who launched the campaign eight years ago, is excited to celebrate our 8th anniversary of the ‘HomeTown Tourist Weekend,’ with a special evening at the Ladysmith Maritime Society’s ‘Dine on the Dock’ meet and greet. This campaign can help promote tourism by being our own town’s ambassadors. For an up-to-date schedule and more information on events and specials, call 250-245-7015 or the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce at 250-245-2112, or visit take5.ca/hometowntourist.
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2018 Specials & Events Friday June 15 Citrus Cycle is offering “buy 1, get 1 50% off ” eBike rentals booked from June 11–15. Visit their store at 1-1158 Rocky Creek Rd., for more info! citruscycles.ca 1-888-342-0102 1:30pm, Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament. This is a great way to network and have a great day on the links. ladysmithcofc.com 5pm, Dine on the Dock, the official kickoff for the weekend. Come on down to the Ladysmith Community Marina, have dinner and see what’s going on at the dock! Ticket, call 250-245-1146.
Saturday June 16 7:30am–6pm, “2 for 1” specialty coffee drinks and smoothies at the 49th Café, 1020 1st Ave., 250-245-3221. Mention “Be a HomeTown Tourist Weekend” special. facebook.com/the49thcafe 8am–6pm, “2 for 1” workout at FJCC, 810 6th Ave., 250-245-6424. Mention “Be a HomeTown Tourist Weekend” special. ladysmith.ca 9am–5pm, Sealegs Kayaking is offering “2 for 1” single 1-hr sea kayak rentals at Transfer Beach, 250-2454096. Mention “Be a HomeTown Tourist Weekend” special.sealegskayaking.com 9:30am, Hill Dash Race Registration, corner of High & 3rd Ave., Ladysmith. 250-924-4444 9:30am–4pm, Ladysmith Visitor Centre is open to answer all your ques-
FJCC Swim and gym discounts.
tions. 250-245-2112; ladysmithcofc.com 10am–3pm, Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club presents “B.C. Family Fishing Day” at Bush Creek Hatchery. Learn to fish, licence free! Food donation for the Ladysmith Food Bank accepted. 250-245-3690.
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10am–4pm, Ironworks Café & Creperie is serving up their the four-berry crepe at only $6.50. 422 Esplanade Ave., Ladysmith, 250-710-9441 10am–4pm, Ladysmith Golf Course all-day golf for $15 or nine holes for $10. Mention “Be a HomeTown Tourist Weekend” special. ladysmithgolfclub.ca 10am–2pm, Citrus Cycle is offering free eBike demos. Come by our store at 1-1158 Rocky Creek Rd., citruscycles. ca; 1-888-342-0102 10:30am, Wolf Walk in the Forest, meet at the Nanaimo River Fish Hatchery, 2775 Rugby Rd., Nanaimo, by 10:15am. Please note: no dog or children under 6. Enjoy a 45-minute walk, then a video presentation at Country Kitchen (total 90 minutes). A donation towards Tundra’s School Programs accepted. 10:30am, Ladysmith Maritime Society, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., half-price harbour boat tours. No reservation required. lmsmarina.ca; 250-245-0109)
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Sunday June 17
8am–6pm, “2 for 1” workout at FJCC, 810 6th Ave., 250245-6424. Mention “Be a HomeTown Tourist Weekend” special. ladysmith.ca 9am–5pm, Sealegs Kayaking is offering “2 for 1” single 1-hr sea kayak rentals at Transfer Beach, 250-245-4096. Mention “Be a HomeTown Tourist Weekend” special.sealegskayaking.com 9:30am–4pm, Ladysmith Visitor Centre open to answer all your questions. ladysmithcofc.com; 250-245-2112 10am–4pm, Ladysmith Golf Course all-day golf for $15 or nine holes for $10. Mention “Be a HomeTown Tourist Weekend” special. ladysmithgolfclub.ca 10am–4pm, Ironworks Café & Creperie is serving up their four-berry crepe at only $6.50. 422 Esplanade Ave., Ladysmith, 250-710-9441 10am–2pm, Cedar Farmers Market. Enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, local products, organic fare, and entertainment. The market is open in the parking lot at the Crow & Gate. FREE! cedarfarmersmarket.org 10:30am, Ladysmith Maritime Society, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., will be running half-price harbour boat tours. No reservation required. lmsmarina.ca; 250-245-0109 10:30am, Wolf Walk in the Forest, meet at the Nanaimo River Fish Hatchery, 2775 Rugby Rd., Nanaimo, by 10:15am at the latest. Please note: no dogs or children under 6. Enjoy a 45-minute walk, then a video presentation at the Cassidy Country Kitchen (total 90 minutes). A donation towards Tundra’s School Programs accepted. 11am–2pm, Treat Dad to Father’s Day brunch at the Cranberry Arms Pub, 1604 Cedar Rd., Nanaimo. 250-722-3112 for reservations. 11am–until closing, Fox & Hound, 11 High St., $1 off their one-piece fish and chips, with the coupon found in the June TAKE 5. foxandhoundsladysmith.com; 250-924-1747 11:30am, Father’s Day brunch at the Cotton Club Restaurant, 1975 Haslam Rd., Nanaimo, 250-245-5157. Treat Dad to a delicious brunch reservation required. June 17, 12-4pm, Ladysmith Little Theatre is hosting an Open House, come by and see behind the scenes, costume design, set design learn tricks of the trade. 4985 Christie Rd. 12–4pm, Ladysmith Museum, 721 1st Ave., a temporary display “Now & Then Quiz & Passport.” Test your knowledge of our downtown businesses. Refreshments and prizes. ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca; 250-245-0423 2pm, Ladysmith Maritime Society, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., will be running half-price harbour boat tours. No reservation required. lmsmarina.ca; 250-245-0109 3pm–6pm, “2 for 1 Swim, Soak or Sauna” at FJCC, 810 6th Ave., No reservation required. Mention “Be a HomeTown Tourist Weekend” special. ladysmith.ca; 250-245-6424 2pm, Citrus Cycle is offering “buy 1, get 1 50% off ” their “Ocean & Forest Trails Discovery” eBike tour. citruscycles. ca; 1-888-342-0102
7am–1pm, Annual Fishing Derby Tournament. Entry $30. Fish for rainbow trout and win prizes. Contact Zuiderzee Campsite at 250-722-2334. 7:30am–6pm, “2 for 1” specialty coffee drinks and smoothies at the 49th Café, 1020 1st Ave., 250-245-3221. Mention “Be a HomeTown Tourist” special. facebook.com/the49thcafe
Rain or shine our area has so many awesome things to do. Take some time for a family-fun day during “Be A Home Town Tourist Weekend.” You will be pleasantly surprised at what is right here in your own back yard! Please check take5.ca/hometowntourist for the most current information.
Hill Dash Race, Saturday June 16, downtown Ladysmith.
11am–until closing, Fox & Hound, 11 High St., $1 off their one-piece fish and chips, with the coupon found in the June TAKE 5. foxandhoundsladysmith.com; 250-924-1747 11am, Hill Dash Race, corner of High and 3rd Ave., Relay team members are required to run/walk/crawl up High St. from 1st. to 3rd. Ave., then roll a ball down the hill to the next team member 250-924-4444 11am–3pm, Beer Garden at Spirit Square 630 2 Ave., Ladysmith. ID required for beer. 11am–3pm, The Wilkinson Heritage Homestead Restoration Open House, Wildwood, 2929 Crane Rd., Ladysmith. Celebrate the completion of the year-long Homestead Restoration project. All donations welcome. 12–4pm, Ladysmith Museum, 721 1st Ave., a temporary display “Now & Then Quiz & Passport.” Test your knowledge of downtown businesses. Refreshments and prizes. ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca; 250-245-0423 Noon, Kids Dash 12:30pm, Running of the Balls 2pm, Ladysmith Maritime Society, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., will be running half-price harbour boat tours. No reservation required. lmsmarina.ca; 250-245-0109 3pm–6pm, “2 for 1 Swim, Soak or Sauna” at FJCC, 810 6th Ave., No reservation required. Mention “Be a HomeTown Tourist Weekend” special. ladysmith.ca; 250-245-6424 4pm, Celebrate the amalgamation of St. Mary’s RC Church, Ladysmith, and St. Joseph’s Church, Chemainus, with a mass and dinner,1135 4th Ave. Tickets are $5 available at both churches office 250-245-3414 June 16, 7pm, Slide Show and Talk “Art Williams Drug Czar” by author Daryl Ashby. Come by and learn about one of Ladysmith’s colourful characters FJCC lower program room. Free event. Books will be available at signing.
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Chum salmon escapement BY BRYAN A. HENDERSON Friends of Holland Creek, latterly Advocates for Holland Creek, were engaged in an effort to conserve the riparian habitats of the Holland Creek Watershed. The Ladysmith Sportsmen Club has been active in the restoration of spawning and nursery habitats and enhancement by stocking salmonids raised in the Bush Creek Hatchery. My interest in the chum spawners of Holland Creek was piqued by the stories of thousands of chum returning to Holland Creek from people who were raised in Ladysmith during the 1940s. What caused the decline in escapement to Holland Creek? Was this decline just a reflection of the poorer escapements of chum from B.C.’s ocean habitat or was this decline a reflection of degraded spawning habitats in Holland Creek? With the help of Richard Tarnoff, who found an obscure report by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (Marshall et al. 1977), I had data for spawning assessments of escapement from 1948 to 1975 for Nanaimo River, Stocking Creek, Holland Creek and Cowichan River (Statistical Areas 17 and 18). I restricted my detailed analyses to these two creeks and two rivers, but many more creeks and rivers were available in this report by Marshall et al. (1977). A comparable series was provided by Andrew Campbell, an assessment biologist with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans for the period of 1970 to the present. Since 2000, there has been little data (lost or not collected). The first task was to produce a graphic summary of chum spawner abundance in Holland Creek over the years of 1948 to 2003. After this date, there was no data, except in 2013. Clearly there was a decreasing trend of chum spawners. In 2017, there was no quantifiable evidence of chum in Holland Creek. Was this just a problem in Holland Creek? Data available for Stocking Creek, showed similar downward trend. Was this decrease in chum spawner abundance just a feature of creeks? Nanaimo River is in the same Statistical District and the trend in chum spawner abundance was an increase. Likewise the Cowichan River chum showed the same increasing trend in abundance. Is there something peculiar to creeks that could explain this apparent difference between creeks and rivers? Henderson (2014) showed that air temperatures increased by two degrees Centigrade between 1948 and 2006. Precipitation increased marginally, with some indication that the variability of precipitation increased in the last 30 years of this series. Snowfall declined as the temperature increased. Salmonids have a narrow tolerance for increases in water temperatures. The higher temperatures and the lower water flows (Henderson 2014) could result in lower survival rate in Holland Creek. Chum fingerling, however, leave Holland Creek in March, long before the creek begins to warm. Precipitation is increasingly more variable from October to December after the chum eggs are incubating in the spawning beds. It is possible that the traditional spawning beds in Holland Creek and Stocking Creek could be purged by these dramatic discharges of water, resulting in a poor survival at the egg and larval stages. What is the difference between creeks and rivers? The main distinguishing feature is that rivers are large and support higher discharge rates of water (cubic metres per second). The water-
Chum spawner abundance in Holland Creek 1948-2000
shed of the Nanaimo River is 95,000 hectares, much larger than the 2500 hectares of watershed for Holland Creek. In addition, the main channel for Nanaimo River is much longer (55 km) than Holland Creek (10 km). Stocking Creek has a much smaller watershed than Holland Creek, and the channel to the sea is less than 5 km. The elevation difference between the source and outlet and the narrowing of the channels may be quite different between rivers and creeks, particularly comparing Nanaimo River with Stocking and Holland Creeks. Further, the rate that precipitation moves through the forested habitat to the main channels may be reduced in larger watersheds, with less elevation differences between the watershed and the main channel. Obviously, the size and quality of the watersheds and the vulnerabilities of the river and creek spawning and nursery habitats will determine the survival rates of eggs and fingerlings. Holland and Stocking Creek have experienced a marked decline in the abundance of spawners, compared with the increase in the larger Nanaimo and Cowichan Rivers. Unfortunately, annual precipitation and discharge are not available. Mortality from the commercial fishery has possibly exceeded sustainable levels, but the increase of chum spawners in Nanaimo and Cowichan rivers seems to contradict that conclusion. The smaller Stocking Creek and Holland Creek stocks have not seemingly experienced higher exploitation rates, as they must share the same exploitation rates of the stocks returning to the Nanaimo and Cowichan rivers. By my calculations, the number of spawners and eggs needed to compensate for the decline of spawning chum in Holland Creek would exceed the availability of the brood stock and would probably exceed the capacity of the Bush Creek Hatchery. Fluctuations in precipitation rates may have been more evident in the past 30 years, as a consequence of climate change. The solution is perhaps, more global than local. Locally, the watersheds of Holland Creek and Stocking Creek have both been dramatically changed by urban development and forestry operations, but the decline in the number of spawners may be explained more by global increases in the variability of precipitation.
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Lots of fun at Kids’ Pirate Day, June 2 at Ladysmith Community Marina. Photo: Gerry Beltgens
Kids’ Pirate Day One of the most exciting events each year in Ladysmith is Kids’ Pirate Day, Saturday, June 2. The fun starts at 10 a.m until 4 p.m., at the Ladysmith Community Marina. Watch out for Captain Jack, Miss Scarlett and a crew of other pirates making a grand entrance aboard a pirate ship. With the Kinsmen Bullhead Derby, Bouncy Castle, food vendors, Sea Life Centre viewing and much more, you won’t want to miss this memorable day -- and an opportunity to dress up like the pirate you always wanted to be !
Stz’uminus Aboriginal Day On Thursday, June 21, 2018, celebrate National Indigenous Day with Stz’uminus First Nations Aboriginal Day at Transfer Beach. The theme for this year’s event is “Youth Health and Wellness.” The day begins at 10 a.m. with a welcoming ceremony by Stz’uminus Chief Elliott and Ladysmith Mayor Stone. At 10:15 a.m., enjoy a concert with Dani and Lizzy with their hit song, “Dancing in the Sky,” also featuring DJ Stanimal. They will be on hand for photos and autographs afterwards. From noon to 1 p.m., enjoy lunch and then take part in fun activities, a bouncy castle and traditional games that will be hosted by the members of
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Amy Amygdaletsis heading to body building competitions. Photo Ernie Janzen.
the Stz’uminus First Nations. The event runs until 2:30 p.m. National Indigenous Peoples Day is a opportunity to become better acquainted with the cultural diversity of First Nations peoples and celebrate their significant contribution to Canadian society.
Local Bodybuilder Heads to Competition BY ALLEN MCDERMID Amy Amygdaletsis has a passion for health and fitness. Born and raised in Ladysmith, she is a wife and mother of two kids, 10 and 6. On top of the dayto-day activities of being a mom, a few years ago, she had taken up kickboxing for fun, which led to her current position as kickboxing instructor at Skillz Ladysmith. “I have been instructing there for the past three years and love it!” Amy’s training for kickboxing includes a grueling, all out 45 minute, session, broken into 3-minute intervals workout regime of building the body core, which includes crunches, pushups, heavy bag, speed work and much more. Recently Amy has added competitive bodybuilding to her fitness repertoire. “I started lifting weights in spring of 2017 and competing in the fall
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that same year.” Amy begins her weekly training at 5 a.m. when most people are still sleeping. Her extreme schedule includes working out seven days a week, three times a day, as well as teaching kickboxing in the evenings here in Ladysmith. Amy went on to win the first two competitions she entered. Her first was in November 2017 at the International Drug Free Athletics (IDFA) in Vancouver where she placed first for Novice Fitness Model and Novice Figure. In April of 2018, Amy placed first in the Open Figure class at the 2018 GNC/ALLMAX International Federation of Bodybuilding (IFBB) PRO Vancouver Island Showdown in Victoria, B.C. Amy is a firm believer that one can compete in bodybuilding without the use of steroids to achieve great results. “My plan is to compete this July at the Vancouver Pro/Am show for my IFBB pro card.”
School in the finals Congratulations to Ecole North Oyster Elementary for being selected as one of the 10 finalist in the BCAA Play Here contest. Now you can help by voting for them everyday until June 17 to win $100,000 to build a new Playspace built this summer. Go to www.bcaaplayhere. com, scroll to the school – École North Oyster, click on the ‘vote’ button. For more information or to volunteer email enoplayground@gmail.com
St. Mary’s Catholic Church Turns 50 Fifty years ago, the new St. Mary’s Catholic Church was built after a fire had destroyed the old church on Buller Street. This year, the Roman Catholic Parishes of St. Joseph’s, Chemainus, and St. Mary’s, Ladysmith, took steps to strengthen their mission in the area by amalgamating and forming the new All Saints Parish. On June 16, 2018, at 4 p.m., Bishop Gary Gordon of the Diocese of Victoria will be at St. Mary’s to celebrate a music filled Mass in recognition of this amalgamation, as well as the anniversary of the church. Following the Mass, dinner will be served. Music and presentations will highlight the evening. The history of the parishes and St. Joseph’s School will be displayed. Tickets are available
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for $5 after Sunday Masses and from St. Joseph’s School office or St. Mary’s office from 10 a.m. to noon, Tuesday to Friday. The entire community is welcome. Masses will continue to be celebrated at both churches. So far, the only visible change is a joint parish council and other committees. Father Mel Bayron will carry on as pastor for the new parish, serving both churches. The Catholic Women’s League has been a proud affiliate of St. Mary’s Church for 84 years. The CWL is a group of women, 66 strong, that raise money for various charity organizations in the community. They host events, such as the Christmas Bazaar and Luncheon and Fashion Show, and all money raised is donated to worthy causes. Seeing the need to help out the parish itself, money that is raised is also used to assist in upkeep for the church hall.
More awards for Riot Brewing Riot Brewing Co. claimed a Silver award for its Vortex Robust Porter at the 2018 Canadian Brewing Awards during the 16th annual Canadian Brewing Awards ceremony held on May 26, 2018 at The Halifax Event Centre in Halifax, NS. “We are absolutely blown away! We are still coming off of the high of winning two awards at the World Beer Cup and now a silver....I’m super proud of all of our staff and what they have accomplished” said Morgan Moreira, Co-Founder of Riot Brewing Co. “BC breweries are kicking ass right now and we are so stoked to be a part of it!” Riot Brewing Co. was conceived in 2009 by Aly Tomlin and
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Ralf Rosenke. Although incorporated in 2013 it wasn’t until 2015, when Morgan Moreira joined the Riot family,that the brewery moved closer to becoming a reality. Riot Brewing Co. finally opened its doors in November 2016. Head Brewer Fabian Specht, formerly of Central City Brewers & Distillers and Howe Sound Brewing, joined the team in early 2016. Only months after opening their Good Vibrations Classical Pilsner won a Silver Medal at the 2017 Canadian Brewing Awards held in Ottawa. They were awarded “Business of the year – Agri Food & Food Production” in the 2018 Business Examiner Awards. Most recently, in May of 2018, Riot Brewing Co. took home two medals at the World Beer Cup Awards held this year in Nashville, TN. Deemed the “Olympics of Beer”, their seasonal beer, Breakfast of Champions Coffee Lager,
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brewed in collaboration with Drumroasters Coffee of Cobble Hill, took home a Bronze award and their year round offering Working Class Hero Dark Mild was awarded a Gold medal. Riot Brewing Co. was the only Canadian brewery to be awarded two medals at that event.
ANZAC Day at Legion 171 Ladysmith On April 25, the fourth annual ANZAC service was held in Ladysmith, along with the 103rd year of remembrance of the Battle of Gallipoli and ANZAC Cove WW1. It was well attended by members of various legions and expat Australians and New Zealanders from around the Island. David Nielson, Vice President of Branch 171, officiated, and Chaplin Tony Bryant gave the address and prayers. Sergeant-at-arms Greg
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The Colours trouped in led by David Edwards (Vietnam Vet) Branch 10, and Piper Major Len Campbell, Branch 258.
Poulsen took charge of the colours. Major Len Campbell of Branch 256 was the piper, and W.O. Robin Roberts did the honours with the national anthems and Last Post and Reveille. At the end of the official program, David Edwards, with Len Campbell on the pipes, led a rendition of “Waltzing Matilda.”
Saltair Forms Ocean Protection Committee A group of Saltair residents have formed a local Saltair Ocean Protec-
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tion Committee to collect information regarding the impact of anchored freighters in our coastal waters, wildlife habitats and public beaches. Their goal is to provide accurate information to the community and advocate for the protection of Stuart Channel waters, enjoyment of public beaches, wildlife protection and homes affected by light and noise disturbances from the ships. Saltair’s voice will join other residents in the Gulf Islands who have formed advocacy groups. Since 2010, Thetis Island, Cowichan
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Bay, Gabriola Island and Pender Island have been advocating to pressure the federal government to improve the management of anchorages and reduce the presence of commercial freighters in these sensitive ecosystems. Local Saltair resident Kay Morisset, the founder/leader of the committee, drafted a petition sponsored by Elizabeth May’s office. Kay also met with Island Trust Chair, Peter Luckham, who endorses and supports Saltair’s petition. For details visit sunnysaltair.ca/saltair-resources/saltairocean-protection-committee/.
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Local “bad” boy drug czar Arthur Williams incredible story in new book BY ROB JOHNSON If you have lived in the area for more than 35 years the name Art Williams will spark a memory of events in the past. Williams who lived south of Ladysmith navigated for years beneath the judicial radar while hand selecting a crew that formed a criminal empire. The thirst for a chemical high along the North American west coast only wetted his appetite to meet the need. This is the first time the story has been told in full with no supposition or literary liberty as each player from both sides of the law contributed their personal experience to expose a real-life game of chess. The incredible story that was Art Williams makes Daryl Ashby’s new book
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85 Grams: Art Williams – Drug Czar a fascinating read. You’ll get a chance to meet the author at a slide show and talk co-hosted by historian Rob Johnson on Saturday, June 16 at 7pm at the Frank Jameson Community Centre Lower Room. The story of Art Williams runs the gambit from a highly intelligent individual who invented some of the best bows and arrows of the 1960’s to that of a major illicit drug producer and trafficker that the RCMP spent well over a million dollars and seven years trying to apprehend. The cat and mouse game that Art and the police carried on for years along with secret drug labs hidden away in the hills, and his reported association with the largest biker gang on the Island make a most compelling story. His tale includes clandestine trips in his plane to Caribbean Islands and the international conflict with Mig jets over Cuba that resulted. It wasn’t until after an early morning raid on his home and lab on August 16, 1977 that the RCMP finally felt they Author Daryl Ashby with Art Williams' bow had enough evidence for laying charges on display at Ladysmith Museum. of trafficking of the drug MDA. While Photo: Rob Johnson
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Art was out on bail his story took a dramatic twist. On the evening of Nov. 30, 1977, his plane disappeared from radar in what appeared to be plane crash. A search of the area of the wreck failed to find the main fuselage of the plane or his body, only a few pieces of aircraft. His story may or may not have ended there, but for years and even today, there are those who believe he faked the crash and flew on to live out his years in the Caribbean. Other mysteries occurred over the years after his disappearance. If you want to find out the complete story, Daryl will be available to answer questions after the show on June 16, 7pm at the FJCC -- a free HomeTown Tourist weekend event. Mr. Ashby will have copies of his book for sale and will be available for book signing. The book is also available at local bookstores. Since his early adult life, Daryl has been intrigued with local history. “I remember reading about Art Williams in the news and being drawn into that story,” recalls Daryl who would spend years peeling away layers of a complicated man to get to the heart of the story.
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“It took years of research often entailing flying to different communities to interview the players,” said Daryl. But in the end he won the trust of his subjects and the result is an authentic book that covers a complex topic with aplomb. As Dale Elliott, Art’s right-hand man put it: “It’s about time the story was told”.
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duction Company is a story about wit and wisdom from a bag lady’s point of view. “Mixed Emotions” sees two old friends searching for new beginnings after their spouses pass on. On Saturday, June 9th the festival closes with two more plays. “The Eye of the Beholder”, performed by Unity of Nanaimo Unities, is described as a comedic lesson about how life is what you make of it. The final production comes from Penny-a-Line Players in Port Alberni. “Dear Sister” by island writer Gwynne Hunt is about three sisters exchanging letters revealing compelling and humorous aspects of their relationship. 2nd Annual YPDG Short Play Like last year, each evening the audience will decide their favorite play of the eveFestival ning with a monetary prize given to the selected group. So don’t miss this exciting showcase of local theatre. Tickets are $15.00 and are The Yellow Point Drama Group’s Short Play Festival returns for its second year available by reservation at 250-722-4624 or at the door. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., performances start@ 7:30 p.m. www.yellowpointdramagroup.org with seven exciting productions. The short plays, from 10 minutes to an hour long in length, are a showcase for local actors, directors and writers. The festival opens Thursday, June 7th with three plays from YPDG. “Moving On” written by local playwright Barrie Baker is about a son trying to get his father to move out of the sold family home to a retirement facility. In the comedy “Stop” a woman’s meditations are interrupted by the voices in her head. “A Pie and a Tart” is a medieval comedy about two beggars trying to outwit a baker and steal his pastries. Friday, June 8th features two plays, “Street Smart” produced by The Big Pro-
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JUNE Ladysmith Harbour Tours by request, 250-2453944
1–2 1, Pirates Walk through downtown Ladysmith 1–22, 11am–4pm, Art Show: Urban Streets, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., Ladysmith, 250-245-1252 1, 5pm, Dine on the Dock, Ladysmith Community Marina, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., Ladysmith, 250245-1146 1, 8pm, Von Reason, Riot Brewing Co., 3055 Oak St., Chemainus, 250-324-7468 1, 9pm, Karaoke, The Sportsman Pub, 640 1st. Ave 250-245-8033 1–Sept 3, Nanaimo Museum “A Call For Justice: Fighting for Japanese Canadian Redress (1977–1988),” 100 Museum Way, , 250-753-1821 2, 10am, Kids Pirate Day, Ladysmith Community Marina, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., Ladysmith, 250245-1146 2, 10am–2pm, South Wellington and Area Community Association’s Spring Market and Community-wide Garage Sale, 1555 Morden Rd., Nanaimo, 250-591-0966 2, 9pm–1am, Live music –The Hip Replacements, The Sportsman Pub, 640 1st Ave., Ladysmith, 250-245-8033
3–9 3, 10am–2pm, Cedar Farmers’ Market, 2313 Yellow Point Rd., Nanaimo 3, 2pm, Blaine Dunaway Quintet, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton, 250-324-2245 4, 7pm, Town of Ladysmith Council meeting, City Hall, 410 Esplanade Ave., Ladysmith, 250-2456400
5, 7pm–10pm, Ruby Tuesday, Riot Brewing Co., 3055 Oak St., Chemainus, 250-324-7468 5–9, 21st Annual Nanaimo Pride Week, parade on June 9 at noon, Nanaimo, www. nanaimopride.ca 8–Sept 1, Chemainus Theatre Festival presents “Grease” 9737 Chemainus Rd., Chemainus, 1-800-565-7738
245-2112 15, 5pm, Dine on the Dock, Ladysmith Community Marina, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., 250245-1146 15, 9pm, Karaoke, The Sportsman Pub, 640 1st. Ave 250-245-8033 15, 9pm, Lawson Kelly, Riot Brewing Co., 3055 Oak St., Chemainus, 250-324-7468
9, 10am–noon, Good Cents for Change Walkathon, Holland Creek Trail (the entrance by the Police Station), Ladysmith
16, 11am (registration opens at 9:30am), Hill Dash, High St., downtown Ladysmith, 250-9244444
9, 1pm–4pm, Saori Handweaving: A Japanese Textile Revolution, 100 Museum Way, Nanaimo, 250-753-1821
16, 11am–3pm, Wilkinson Heritage Homestead Restoration Launch, public open house, Wildwood Ecoforest, 2929 Crane Rd., Ladysmith, www.ecoforestry.ca
9, 1pm–4pm, Sipping the Wild, Wildwood Ecoforest, 2929 Crane Rd., Ladysmith, www. ecoforestry.ca 9, 2-4pm, Strawberry Tea, St. Philip Cedar tkts A $7/C $3, 1797 Cedar Rd.
10 – 16 10, 10am–2pm, Cedar Farmers’ Market, 2313 Yellow Point Rd., Nanaimo 10, 2pm, Susannah Adams’ Sextet, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton, 250-324-2245 10, 4pm, A Pleasure of Organ Potboilers, Ladysmith First United sanctuary, 232 High St., Ladysmith 10, 2pm, Chemainus Classical Concerts: We are the Music Makers, 2858 Mill St., Chemainus, 250-748-8383 10, Harmac Fun Slow Pitch, The Wheaty Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-2422 13, 7pm, Nanaimo Horticultural Society Meeting, First Unitarian Fellowship Hall, 595 Townsite Rd., Nanaimo 15, 1:30pm, 11th Annual Ladysmith Chamber Golf Classic, 1975 Haslam Rd., Nanaimo, 250-
16, 4pm, Mass & Dinner, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1135 4th Ave. 250-245-3414 16, 9pm, Cheko and the Lion Rockers, Riot Brewing Co., 3055 Oak St., Chemainus, 250324-7468 16, 17, Be a HomeTown Tourist, Ladysmith, see pg 12
17 – 23 17, 10am–2pm, Cedar Farmers’ Market, 2313 Yellow Point Rd., Nanaimo 17, Father’s Day Brunch, Cranberry Arms, 1604 Cedar Rd. 250-722-3112 17, 11:30am, Father’s Day Brunch, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 17, 2pm, Kit Eakle’s Django Sphere, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton, 250-3242245 18, 5–8pm, Happy Turkey Night meets Cranberry Blossom Festival, Yellow Point Cranberries, 4532 Yellow Point Rd., 250-2455283 18, 7pm, Town of Ladysmith Council meeting,
City Hall, 410 Esplanade Ave., 250-245-6400 19, 7pm–10pm, Ruby Tuesday, Riot Brewing Co., 3055 Oak St., Chemainus, 250-324-7468 21, 5pm–9pm, Beer and Cut with Victory Barbers, Riot Brewing Co., 3055 Oak St., Chemainus, 250-324-7468 21, 7:30pm, Shaun Majumder with special guest Matt Wright, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-7487529 22, 5pm, Dine on the Dock, Ladysmith Community Marina, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., 250245-1146 22, 7:30pm, “My Funny Valentine,” 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-748-7529 22–24, 10am–4pm, Printmaking Workshop, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., Ladysmith, 250-245-1252 23, 9am–3pm, Multi-family yard sale, Cassidy Mobile Home Park, 1572 Seabird Rd., Ladysmith 23, Mid-Season Slow Pitch Tourney, The Wheaty Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250722-2422 23, 9:30am, Semiramide The Met: Live in HD, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-748-7529 23, 1pm–4pm, The Art of Wearing Kimonos, with Asuka Naomi, 100 Museum Way, Nanaimo, 250-753-1821 23, 7:30pm, Queer Songbook Orchestra, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-748-7529 23–24, 10am–3:30pm, Fabric Painting Workshop, with Pipi Tustian, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., Ladysmith, 250-245-1252
24 – 30 24, 10am–2pm, Cedar Farmers’ Market, 2313 Yellow Point Rd., Nanaimo 24, 10am–4pm, Nanaimo Horticultural Society’s garden tour, six gardens, www.nanaimohort.org 24, 2pm, Chesea McBride’s Socialist Night School, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton, 250-324-2245 24, Mid-Season Slow Pitch Tourney, The Wheaty Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250722-2422 25–27, 10am–4pm, Watercolour and the Creative Process Workshop, with Nan Goodship, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., Ladysmith, 250-245-1252 26, 7pm, Ladysmith Camera Club —
“Photography and Beyond” Hardwick Hall, High St. at 3rd Ave., www.LadysmithCameraClub.com
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26, 7pm–10pm, Glenn and Jetta’s Talent Tuesday Showcase, 3055 Oak St., Chemainus, 250-324-7468
Ladysmith Harbour Tours, 7 days a week, 250245-3944
27, 9:30–3:30pm, Pottery Workshop, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., Ladysmith, 250-245-1252 29, 8pm, Fanfare, Riot Brewing Co., 3055 Oak St., Chemainus, 250-324-7468 29–July 1, 10am–4pm, Expressive Art Workshop: Makings, Muses and Mediations, with Mia Tremblay, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., 250-245-1252
1, Canada Day Celebrations, Transfer Beach in Ladysmith 1, Canada Day Celebrations, Waterwheel Park, Chemainus 15 Dine on the Docks 18 Cranberry Blossom Festival 16 Wildwood Reno Launch
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RDN Area A (Cedar, Cassidy, S. Wellington) BY ALEC MCPHERSON In 1977, with housing costs and interest rates soaring, my family and I relocated to Langley City some 31 miles distant from my employer’s corporate offices in downtown Vancouver. It was not an easy decision, as there was limited public transportation; however, it was either that or forego any opportunity for home ownership. Sound familiar in today’s housing environment? From 1977 through to 1994, I travelled a familiar route along Highway 10 to Highway 99 and north through the Massey Tunnel (a.k.a. Deas Tunnel) to downtown Vancouver. In the late 1980s into the 1990s, there was an increasing proliferation of greenhouses constructed throughout the Lower Fraser Valley between Langley, Surrey and Delta. I can recall when a massive greenhouse development first appeared in Delta, to the east of Highway 99 and south of the tunnel. I would mark its growth by measuring its ever increasing length on my vehicle’s odometer. Not everyone was pleased to see these structures being constructed on prime agricultural land, with the attendant light pollution that accompanied 24/7
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production. A few people more accepting of these operations would counter with, “At least they’re growing food.” Some of these greenhouse operations provided more than one million square feet (92,903 square metres) in production and appeared to be able to compete with the price point of imported food crops, such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and eggplant. As margins were reduced, many of these operations took to heating their facilities with coal, as alternative energy sources of electricity, such as natural gas, were at a much higher cost. Over the ensuing years, natural gas became the major source of heating, and more recently, co-generation facilities using gas from landfills and fuel cell technology has been on the increase as more environmentally sustainable sources of energy. In June 2013, the Government of Canada implemented the Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations (MMPR). The MMPR created conditions for a commercial industry responsible for the production and distribution of marijuana for medical purposes. The then Liberal-controlled government in British Columbia quickly embraced the idea of cannabis as an agricultural crop. Unlike other provinces that do not have an Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) classification intended to preserve
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farmland, local governments throughout B.C. found themselves with unique challenges, such as grow-ops springing up on ALR lands next to schools without benefit of odour controls or high security measures. Due to stated privacy concerns, Health Canada would not provide information to local police or other agencies as to whether or not the facility had a licence to grow and what level of production was permitted. Despite efforts to have the provincial government overturn the agricultural crop designation and, like other provinces, limit production to industrial lands with high security, odour and other controls, local government concerns were ignored. In 2016, the federal government announced its intentions to legalize nonmedical cannabis production and sale. Predictably, a number of companies were incorporated with the express purpose of supplying the needs of this new industry. Over the past couple of years, some of these companies have gained listings on stock exchanges. In the past six months or so, there have been mergers and consolidations valued at ever-increasing sums now in the billions of dollars. Coincident with this, these firms have been entering into prospective deals with potential retailers to market their products. More disconcerting are the recent developments involv-
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ing greenhouse operations initially involved in the production of vegetables, flowers and other traditional agricultural crops. Firms interested in capitalizing on this new cannabis-based industry have been purchasing or forming partnerships with these operations to produce cannabis on a large-scale basis. Producers cite cheaper growing conditions than those housed in large-scale warehouses on industrially-zoned lands. The greenhouse operators state that price points dictated by import of foreign produce have reduced their margins so that they are only marginally profitable and unsustainable in the long term. With cannabis production, they anticipate higher revenues, lower labour costs due to fewer people being needed, lower energy and water needs versus the traditional crops they have supplied. Unlike the operations staged on industrially-zoned lands, the cannabis production allows them to retain “farm” status, with the lands and structures taxed at rates as low as 5 per cent of the same operation hosted in the industrial park. An ever-increasing number of persons and organizations fearing loss of food crops are urging the provincial government to take steps to curtail the conversion to cannabis production. Some of those involved in partnerships with the cannabis companies are recognizing the potential for blowback, as I note a few enterprises making statements to the effect that they will maintain some production of the traditional crops while they expand to participate in the more profitable cannabis production. There are many pressures facing our agricultural lands; however, I am not overly accepting of some of the reasons and prescriptions to overcome cited by regulatory authorities. Most farm families on Vancouver Island have continued to farm only with the aid of a second job — whether it be through contract work for other farmers or by way of a career in an unrelated industry. Many have no prospect of a pension with all their “wealth” tied-up in the farm property. With ALC decisions that deny their sons and daughters having decent housing on the farm property so that they can continue the family farming tradition and allow them to age in place on the farm, their options are limited. The obvious course of action is to sell at the market price with the new, likely wealthier, owner free to build their dream estate. Perhaps a change in applying rigid policies on and the adoption of a more flexible strategy to deal with family farmlands is in order. Note to reader: Yes, I am familiar with farming activities as myself and wife continue to farm part of my wife’s family farm
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(dating to 1943). We have avoided building structures on the farmlands — partly due to costs involved and partly due to maximizing the available farmland — and, instead, constructed a barn and accessory structure on our residential land. alecmcpherson@shaw.ca
CVRD Area H (North Oyster, Diamond) BY MARY MARCOTTE Regional Recreation Update: Once Again the Topic Rears Its Ugly Head From the day I was first elected, the municipal governments in the Cowichan Valley Regional District have made concerted efforts to force the rural areas to participate in funding facilities for “Regional Recreation.” Their goal is to have all the people in the Region — from east to west, north and south — pay for all the operational and capital costs of recreation facilities despite of the fact that not all the taxpayers in the Region use the facilities. These facilities were designed, constructed and operated by the municipal governments with various grants from the senior governments, without consulting the rural residents. This is blatantly unfair for the people who do not use the municipal facilities! In the past, the municipalities pushed the municipal agenda forward. Consultants have been hired to research usage and conduct opinion surveys. It seems to me that the goal has been to find a way to justify taxing everyone for the service, whether they want it or not. In one survey, 86 per cent of the respondents in North Oyster/Diamond stated that they were not in favour of funding these so called “regional” facilities. A “Regional Recreation Committee” was formed with participants from both rural and municipal jurisdictions. Once again, a consultant was hired. This time the goal was to assist the committee in determining the future of recreating in the Valley. It was recognized that the way our residents recreate today is quite different from the past. Extensive public consultation for the entire Region was carried out. As a result, a report consisting of 94 pages was produced. If you are interested in reviewing the report, please contact the CVRD and ask about the possibility of providing you with an electronic version of the report. Just when I thought that Regional Recreation Proposal would be rejected by the majority of Board members, the vote to reject
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failed by one vote. My position has not changed. I am hearing that North Oyster/Diamond residents do not wish to pay for facilities that were never requested and had absolutely no input in the matter. I cannot and will not support having to pay for these facilities unless North Oyster/Diamond taxpayers can express their opinions through an area by area referendum process. North Oyster Fire Department Update In the mid 1950s, this community considered the feasibility of forming a volunteer fire brigade. Although there were a number of obstacles to providing this much needed service, the residents gave a resounding “yes” to forming a fire department under the Society’s Act. At that time, there was no CVRD to fund the fire department; the community turned to the ratepayers group for support and funding. The ratepayers were receptive to funding the proposed fire department. The ratepayers acquired a used fire truck for the community. The next step was to build a fire hall. Volunteer labour was to used construct the hall; donated material was utilized wherever possible. The process was very similar to a community barn raising. Over the years, it became clear that the existing hall was no longer adequate for the community’s needs. It was recognized by the NOFD Society that the provision of fire protection services required additional support and funding from the Regional District. The community was informed that the fire hall situation required a remedy; the issue was taken to the public in the form of an AAP and a referendum. Both proposals were turned down by the voters. As a result of those set backs, the Regional District has been holding funds in reserve for the purpose of extending the existing hall, as well as refreshing the current hall. On May 7, a ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of an extended hall was held. It was my great pleasure to be part of the event and to finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. I would like to thank all of the fire fighters for their time and efforts in providing this service. I would also like to thank CVRD staff for developing a cost-effective solution to the longterm provision of fire services to our community.
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“If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have roots instead of feet.” — Rachel Wolchin BY MEADOW WOOD It’s not easy to move away from your home, your friends and your past. But there are new opportunities everywhere. My family and I recently moved from London, Ontario, to beautiful Cedar, British Columbia. After the death of my great uncle, we left our home in the city to come and live with my great aunt on their farm. Things have been quite different since Great Uncle Laurie’s death, but we know his spirit will always be with us, and Great Aunt Jackie is always
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sharing stories about their life together on the farm. At first, I was very worried to move, and yet I’m very glad we’re all here together. Nature is always waking us up now, and I don’t miss the snow back home. All I can tell you is that things are much more natural and fun on the farm. Some of our adventures here so far include roasting marshmallows over the open fire, walking in the woods, baking pies and selling over 50 pounds of rhubarb to the local grocers. Everything on the farm is peaceful and relaxing although there is always
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work to be done, like pruning, weeding and cleaning up! And we can’t forget about the mason bees. First, we had to decorate their homes, their rainbow condos! Almost every week we’ve been replacing tubes full of eggs with empty ones. So far we have almost 150 tubes full of mason bee eggs. And they are the best pollinators on our farm. Even though the farm is filled with fruits and veggies, the horses, sheep and dogs make it much more magical for everyone. Our six collies are all different colours and have all different personalities, from quiet and calm to spunky and playful. We are learning a lot from Great Aunt Jackie. She knows so much about each and every tree and plant here. I have also learned that your fears can be overcome. Although I miss my family and friends back in London, the farm is starting to feel more like home to me. Meadow is a ten-year-old aspiring writer originally from London, Ontario. After moving to Cedar, she is just starting to get used to farm life and her adventures have only just begun.
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Totally Tomatoes Finally a summer heat wave has arrived, which means lots of tasty homegrown tomatoes will ripen on the vines, something gardeners look forward to all year. There’s a renewed interest in growing heirloom varieties, reputed to have the best flavour, so today we are going to talk totally tomatoes. I am often asked, “Which is your favourite tomato to grow?” But there is no simple answer because it depends on so many things. Tomatoes come in all colours, from red, pink, orange, black, purple to yellow — they even come splashed and striped!
A bounty of beautiful tomatoes.
Sizes range from tiny currants to whopping beefsteaks, shapes from round to pear-shaped, and flavour from sweet to smoky. So I say growing a diversity of tomatoes and choosing your favourite for taste and performance is
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the way to go. Over the years, I have grown hundreds of varieties of heirloom tomatoes because I am interested in growing “tried and true” varieties that work well for production, flavour and disease resistance. I desperately tried to get the count down from 50 varieties a year to a reasonable number, but my nursery customers egged me on, with repeated requests to try the tomatoes along with me. This year I have whittled it down to 15 different varieties chosen for their taste, yield and vigour. Here’s a list of the ones I am growing this year. • Red cherry: Gardener’s Delight, Red Grape • Yellow cherry: Gold Nugget • Red salad: Moskvich, Moneymaker • Yellow salad: Yellow Perfection • Beefsteak: Chianti Rose • Novelty: Black Cherry, Japanese Black Trifele • Paste: Ardwyna, San Marzano • Patio: Silvery Fir, Sophie’s Choice • Sundrying: Principe Borghese • Hanging baskets: Hawaiian Red Currant
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You don’t need a garden to grow tomatoes, as there are many suitable for hanging baskets and planters and even for growing upside down. You need to choose patio varieties suited to container growing. They produce a limited number of flowers, which means a shorter period of production, but they will ripen earlier. It’s important to water planters regularly, and as their roots fill the planter, feed weekly with liquid seaweed to promote fruit production. Then you should get a good crop. Three quarters of all tomato cultivars are indeterminate or “vining” plants that grow 15-feet long in one season, or semideterminate that grow four-feet tall and need the support of a sturdy stake. They are not suited to container growing, but will produce huge yields of tomatoes until first frost. If you pinch off the suckers growing between the main stem and the leaf axils and keep the vines to one main stem, you will direct the plant’s energy to fruit production instead of leaves. After I have collected the seeds, I process tomatoes in a number of ways to preserve them for year-round enjoyment. They are either skinned and bottled (with lemon juice and salt), dried on the dehydrator, or cooked down into a paste or sauce that is frozen in tubs for winter eating. We also slow roast them on parchment paper in the oven, which really brings out their flavour. In September, I cut the tips off the plants to stop production and defoliate the plants completely, leaving clusters of tomatoes fully exposed to the sun. Even though this may seem dramatic, it doesn’t affect the health of the plants, but it does make a difference to how the tomatoes ripen. Any green ones left over are either brought indoors and put into a brown paper bag with an apple to speed up ripening, or processed into recipes for green tomatoes, such as green tomato mincemeat, green tomato chutney or green tomato pickles. My husband loves this homemade tomato soup, which is quick and easy to make and can be frozen for enjoyment anytime.
CREAM OF TOMATO SOUP 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter 1 medium onion, chopped 2 cups (10-15) fresh tomatoes, skins removed in boiling water and chopped into quarters 1 bay leaf 1 tsp (5 ml) sea salt 1 tsp (5 ml) black pepper 1 cup (250 ml) 2% milk 1/2 cup (125 ml) heavy cream Optional: 2 tbsp (30 ml) sherry Sauté onion in butter until soft for five minutes. Add skinned tomatoes, bay leaf, salt and pepper. Cook over gentle heat until the tomatoes are liquid for 15–20 minutes. Remove the bay leaf. Puree in a blender until smooth. Return to the saucepan. Stir in the dairy gradually to prevent the soup from curdling, and heat without allowing to come to a boil. Add sherry if you wish (nice touch Carolyn Herriot is author of The Zero Mile Diet, A Year Round Guide to Growing Organic Food and The Zero Mile Diet Cookbook, Seasonal Recipes for Delicious Homegrown Food (Harbour Publishing). Available at your local bookstore.
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On May 25, the end of one of Ladysmith's long-standing traditions ended when Renee Falonen hung up her apron and closed Renee's Soup and Sandwich. A week earlier she had closed her other shop, Magic Moments, a gallery that offered local art and lessons that was also located in the same building. The new owners of the building are planning extensive renovations. After a lifetime of feeding her community, Renee is looking forward to slowing down a bit and focussing on her art. Once her home studio in Chemainus
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Renee Falonen of Renee’s Soup and Sandwich hung up her apron after 28 years of operating the cafe. Renee is pictured here at her other business Magic Moments which also closed in May. Photo: Marina Sacht.
is completed, she will return to oering art classes. Renee opened her cafe in August 1990. Two years later she bought the building. After several tenants had come and gone, next door she decided to open Magic Moments.
Her family shares her good taste in food. When she was a teenager she recalls helping her parents at their Mt. Brenton Snack shop located near the old school. Her mom had a hand in her success as some of the popular menu items came from recipes handed down from
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her and her aunt. “I never found a better bread or cinnamon bun recipe,” says Renee. As the neighbourhood changed through the years, there were still things you could count on at Renee's: plate crushing giant cinnamon buns, thick sliced freshly baked bread, light creamy cheesecake and her signature dish, mile high lemon meringue pie. Renee took pride in making all her pie fillings from scratch. Her day would start at 5 am and end at 4 pm. “If I was busy in the back, and a new customer came in, the regulars would holler, or they'd just grab the coffee pot and serve them. That's the kind of place this was.” No credit or debit, cash only, old-fashioned service. For Renee, the hardest part of closing is saying goodbye. “I have the nicest customers around. Some have been coming for 28 years.” And, as they put it: “We are happy for you but not so much for us.” All may not be lost -- a cookbook is a possibility. If that happens it is bound to be popular with the folks who may have to learn to cook some of those recipes in order to get another meal at Renee's.
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Sausage roll tasting Last month we asked – where is your favourite place to get sausage rolls. Our chef doing the judging is Lance Ivens. As a chef at Fox and Hounds and sporting a British pedigree, he has enjoyed many of the 18 century pastry that originated in England. Here are his comments: Hearthstone Bakery, 155g, $3.25. Tasty filling, not too over-powering. Great pastry, nice and flaky, traditional size. Vegetarian version: 192g, $3. Lots of filling, nice spicy taste, great pastry. 49th Parallel Grocery, 104g, $1.60 Filling is nice and soft. Our judge found it a bit small but at this price, you could afford to have two of them. Chemainus Bakery, 94g, $1.55 Nice flavoured filling, good pastry crunch. Bouma Meats, 128g, $1.75 Nice ratio of filling & pastry. Old Town Bakery, 111g, $3 Nice spice in the filling. Vegetarian version: 95g, $2.60 Nice, light flavour. While the different sausage rolls represented various price points and sizes and they all have their own merit, there
Chef Lance Ivens, sausage roll king. Photo: Marina Sacht
could be only one winner. For judge Lance it was Hearthstone Artisan Bakery for both meat and vegetarian versions. Remember, taste is subjective so get out there and do your own tasting. Next we tackle the mighty Clubhouse. Where you go when your clubhouse craving hits? editor@take5.ca
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RAT-A-TAT-TAT I got a message from Netflix the other day saying I might be interested in their new movie, Hitman’s Bodyguard. How they determined this, I couldn’t tell you, because the last show I watched was a British detective show where if you wanted to kill someone, you pushed them off a cliff. Low tide was best. Choosing a movie for my wife and I to watch together is never easy, simply because we have different tastes. A good thing that because being married to a woman who lists steam trains as a hobby would be far too much huffing and puffing for one family. But never doubt Netflix’s intelligence. Though Hitman’s Bodyguard was an
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action flick, it starred Ryan Reynolds, the king of cuteness. “I’ll watch that,” my wife said. The movie also starred Samuel L. Jackson and Selma Hayak, who, thanks to a crass voice and a potty mouth, had the sex appeal of a bullfrog. We were about five minutes into the movie when the shooting started. Bad guys wearing black pajamas and matching balaclavas were popping up on roof tops, in windows, out of porta-potties and from behind statues, all armed with automatic weapons trained on ever-so-cute Ryan. Realizing the movie wasn’t going to be the same without Ryan, my wife sprung to the rescue. “Duck, Ryan, duck! ... Run, Ryan, run!” But the bad guys kept coming, causing her to use her firmest voice, the one she uses on me when I forget the garbage. “Stop picking on, Ryan,” she commanded. “Can’t you see he’s wearing a pink shirt?” By this time, bombs were exploding, cars were crashing, boats were sinking and luxury German sport utility vehicles were falling like raindrops. “Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird. It’s a plane. … It’s another fully loaded BMW with 20-inch wheels, sport seats and metallic
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paint crashing back down to Earth.” In the background, the never-ending sound of automatic weapons caused my wife to lose interest. “Call me when there’s a cease fire,” she said and retired to the kitchen. There she whipped up a batch of jumbo raisin cookies, scrubbed some pots, ironed a few shirts and phoned a few daughters before wandering back to the TV room where the battle still raged. “I thought I told you to call me when there was a ceasefire,” she said. “There hasn’t been one,” I replied. “You’re on your own,” she said and left. And that’s how Ryan Reynolds missed out on the jumbo raisin cookies. The superfluous violence of these movies would be bad enough if the guys knew how to die properly, but they don’t. Too much blood; not enough hang time. In the westerns of old, dying was a highly competitive art form. Those shot went down in stages, milking every second of it. It was where the new upcoming actors got their start, and silver screen veterans earned their academy awards. Sheriff: Go for your gun, Lefty. (Sound of gunfire. Lefty takes a bullet to the gut. Drops gun, clutches midsection.)
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Lefty: Ya got me, Sheriff. Sheriff: Yup. Lefty: (Sinks down to one knee) Could I ask a small favour? Sheriff: Sure thing, Lefty. Lefty: Don’t let them eat my horse. Sheriff: (Look of disgust) This here’s Vegan Gulch, Lefty. Lefty: Oops. So how are you going to know if Hitman’s Bodyguard is the right movie? Well, aside from interminable car chases and exploding BMW’s, you must appreciate loud repetitive sounds. If extended drum solos are your thing, and the Canadian Jackhammers Greatest Hits album is your idea of dinner music, you’ll probably be able to watch the film without running into the kitchen to bake cookies. The same goes if you find the sound of woodpeckers trying to attract a mate by drumming on your metal chimney soothing (what woodpeckers do when searching for a mate, just in case you’re wondering where the term “Bird Brain” comes from). If it’s your head that’s banging against the metal chimney when mating, that’s a sure sign the movie is for you. It’s also a sign you’re suffering from what’s known in medical journals as “Woody’s Syndrome.” If this happens on a regular basis, seek immediate help, as your brain has probably been installed backwards. Some consider Hitman’s Bodyguard unrealistic because of the number of shots fired, yet Reynolds and Jackson remained standing. It is estimated that less than 100,000 bullets were fired at Reynolds. According to official US military records, on average it takes 250,000 rounds to inflict one casualty. This unbelievable (but true) statistic was determined during the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts — if you can call such appalling marksmanship “conflicts.” This is attributed to the ways modern wars are fought. Gone are the days of John Wayne, who would stand tall behind a papier-mâché rock and plunk the bad guys off one by one. Today’s soldier takes cover behind a sturdy building, sticks his weapon around the corner without aiming and fires in the general direction of the enemy. The logic being if you fire enough bullets, sooner or later you’ll hit something. Some might criticize the soldiers for a lack of courage, but keep in mind, today’s soldier didn’t sign up to save the world, but to get as far away as possible from his job at the car wash where if the boss wasn’t looking, the larger employees would strap him to the roof of a Buick and run him through the wash until his teeth sparkled. Not having the same budget for bullets as the Americans, the insurgents resorted to trickery. They simply recorded compilations of Bruce Willis flicks, 87 per cent of which are automatic weapons fire, then played back the recordings as loud as their trembling speakers would allow. With that taken care of, they’d retire to their neighbourhood cantina and listen to CNN reports of Americans encountering fierce resistance. Single male woodpecker (SMW), with thick neck and rattled brain, looking for meaningful relationship with single female woodpecker (SFW). Will provide a tasty Cote de Ventoux, Chateau Pesquie, $20. Follow Delbert at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com or pick up his book Slightly Corked available at the Mahle House.
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TAKE 5
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Residential units by Transfer Beach The following is excerpted from a presentation I made to Ladysmith Town Council at the May 14th public hearing on a rezoning bylaw allowing for the sale of town-owned land adjacent to Transfer Beach Park. The site (behind the horseshoe pitch) is currently used for overflow parking at events at Transfer Beach Park. It was also at one time the only RV campground in Ladysmith. Here are some questions and points I would like all of you to consider. If you choose to pass this bylaw, you will open the door to the selling off of an area that many people feel is part of Transfer Beach Park. It is in fact not a part of the park, rather it is a reserve of land that is adjacent to the park. Any building on this site will have a dramatic effect on the park and the public’s use of the park. If Council passes this bylaw, it will change the character and feel of the park. Residential buildings take away from the feeling of green and open space. Building on this site can create a sense of enclosure. It has been suggested that by selling this property, the Town can use the proceeds from the sale to aid in the development of the Master Waterfront Plan, which many think is a good idea. But is it? Before we rezone this property, allowing it to be sold, we should get clarification on a few of the critical issues. • Has the property been assessed as to its market value? • What will be the Town’s portion of Waterfront Plan? What percentage of this cost will be covered by any net profit from the sale of these lands? • What assurances can you give us that the Waterfront Plan will proceed as presented to the people of Ladysmith? • Should the proceeds from any land sale go to the Waterfront Plan or should any money received be better used on other pressing issues? For example, increasing the capacity of our water supply to meet the needs of our residents now and in the future (note: attached to the bylaw was a map showing the town’s expected population growth of an additional 6,700 people). The Waterfront Plan suggests there will be 750–800 people residing in 325–350 housing units. Assuming 1.25 cars per housing unit, that means an additional 435 cars (1.25*350). I estimate that this would likely mean 1,000 more daily uses of the entrances and exits at the Transfer Beach Park entrance at the Trans Canada Highway and Roberts Street.
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Using the Towns own estimates, the population of the town will grow by 85 per cent or 6700 more people in the next 20 to 30 years. What if the population increases in the other areas around Ladysmith? Increases like this will tax that capacity of Transfer Beach Park to the point where its charm may be taken away. Look at the volume of people using it on beautiful sunny days even now. The Waterfront Plans show Slack Point converted into a park for us to use, but will
this ever happen? Slack Point has significant challenges to address before it ever becomes the park shown in the Waterfront Plan. Its shoreline is eroding away at an alarming rate. The coastline is vulnerable to further erosion because of climate change and rising sea levels, increases to as much as two feet in the Vancouver area by 2050, according to Provincial Government estimates. Without very expensive shoreline protection, much of Slack Point could soon be underwater. Slack Point is not much more than five or six feet above the existing high water line, and it has flooded in that past from storm surges and king tides. What will it be like if the estimates are correct? Lastly, if this land is ever sold off, it will effectively set the boundaries of Transfer Beach Park forever. How does this Council want to be thought of in the future? Do you want to know as the Council that missed the opportunity to save this site for future expansion of Transfer Beach Park? Remember, the park has no other way to expand, as the southern bounds are set because a past Council elected to sell off that land. Don’t let a similar thing happen with these lands at the north end of the park. Many of these questions may have arisen and discussed at “in camera” meetings that were held by Council, but I cannot find any public record where these question may have debated. Hopefully, these comments may prompt more questions for you to consider before you vote on such an important issue. Remember: Parkland is our gift to future generations. We can’t afford to make a mistake, as once sold, this land is gone forever. Shortly after the close of the public hearing, Council voted to pass the rezoning bylaw and open the doors to housing development on the site. It is Council’s prerogative to decide what they believe is the best use of the site, but the meeting did not leave me feeling that they listened to the concerns of many who took the time and effort to make their views heard. At least that’s as I see it.
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WANTED FREE rent in exchange for senior homecare for 3 hours per day. Contact 250-245-0014. LOOKING FOR AN OLDER character house to rent OR BUY in Ladysmith old town heritage area. Prefer a yard with garage/workshop and alley access but all options considered. Email ladysmithproperty@gmail.com FOR SALE FURNITURE. Vertical pantry/office cupboard 30” w x 73” h, $35; cabinet 24” w x 28” h, $30; dropleaf 34” w x 26” h, $30; 2 white bookshelves 12” w x 32” h, $15 each; 15” flat screen TV + PVR,-$35; 2 white bookshelves 28” w x 71” h, $15 each; 2 round occasional tables 19” & 22” diameter, $20 each; office chair, $15; to view 250245-5432. BUSINESS I CAN EDIT. Copy editing, proofreading, structural editing and more. Fiction or nonfiction, web content and eBook prep. For more information, email editican@gmail.com. CONCRETE RESULTS. Contracting, full-service forming and finishing, walls, walks, patios, drives. 35 years experience. Call Gord 250-753-4024. BEADS BEADS BEADS ETC.! 9752 Willow St., Chemainus. Best prices on the Island. Follow Facebook@etcinchemainus or call 250-3242227. TAKE 5 ads work! 250-245-7015 EXPERIENCED HOUSE SITTER available for summer 2018. References avail. Prefer long stay. www.peaceofmindhousesitting.wordpress.com. Contact Kathleen at kgrcoaching@gmail.com or 250-619-0786. ROMAX MASONRY. Chimney repairs and rebuilds. Stonework. Patios. Interlocking pavers. Fireplaces. Slate installs. Minor excavating. Romaxmasonry.com, romax-bc@shaw.ca or 250-516-7597. JOANNE’S CLEANING SERVICE. Over 20 years’ experience in Ladysmith area, satisfaction guaranteed. $20 per hour. To book your appointment, call 250-245-0999. EDUCATION COTTAGE PAINT 101. Transform old furniture into AWESOME! Learn the basics plus creative decorative techniques. All supplies included + 15% off Cottage Paint purchase at ANTIQUE ADDICT. To book, contact at shop@ antiqueaddict.ca or 250-245-6533.
PIANO LESSONS: Taught by Linda Sheraton, Toronto Conservatory Gr. 8. Beginner $25 for 45 minutes; intermediate $40 for 60 minutes 2402nd Ave. Ladysmith. Call 250-327-9119 for info. HEALTH & BEAUT Y JACLYNN COTTRELL REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPY. $100 for one hour; $60 for 30 minutes. Available evenings. Located across from Friesen’s on York Rd. in Cedar. Call 778971-0444. TAI CHI for mental & physical health. Beginner classes start Sept. & Jan., Mondays, at Cedar Heritage Centre. On-going class Wednesdays at North Oyster Community Centre. Both classes 10am to noon $25/mo. www.nanaimotaichi.org. Call Sara 250-245-1466. HUGS FOR HEALING. A Support Group for all widows who wish to share their journey. Every 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month, from 2pm–4pm, at The Gales, 626 Farrell Rd., Unit 14, Ladysmith. Contact Lindy Tungatt at kandlt@ hotmail.com or 250-924-0056. VIDEO PRODUCTION services. 250-245-7015 HOME & YARD QUALITY RENOVATIONS. Big or small. 25 yrs. exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate, call Lars 250-616-1800. ARE YOU BUYING OR SELLING A HOME? Curb appeal, re-design or new design, www. islandgardenscapes.ca. Ask for Kathleen 250-802-0461. ISLAND PRUNING. Professional tree care from large scale orchards to budding new trees. I can meet any pruning need. Shrubs, vines and ornamental. Large and small clean ups. Call Darcy Belcourt 250-323-1260. KB HANDYMAN AND YARDWORKS SERVICES. Minor carpentry work, decks, fences, gutter cleaning, tree pruning, yard clean up, lawn fertilizing, mowing. Senior’s discount. Contact Karl at kbhandymanandyardworks@gmail.com or 250-714-2738. GARDEN RENOVATION AND LANDSCAPING. Are you thinking of a garden renovation or landscaping project? Excellent quality and knowledge. We are happy to assist you with any landscaping or gardening work you need. Estimates are always free. Give Sandpiper a call! 250-246-2421.
JUNE 2018
RAISED GARDEN BEDS, railings, wheelchair ramps, decks, benches, woodsheds, greenhouses, painting, carpentry, custom shelving. Enhance your enjoyment of the home and yard you love. Namaste Home Improvements, 250-245-2751 (see display ad). HIGH PERFORMANCE LANDSCAPING locally owned & operated, excavating services, lawn maintenance, hedge, tree & shrub pruning, low maintenance garden design, irrigation installations & servicing, water features, fence, deck & patio construction, mulch & soil delivery, garbage/ dump runs. Call 250-327-5896. ALL ACRES TREE SERVICE providing all aspects of tree work. Pruning, falling, hedging, dangerous tree removal. Fully insured. Professional work at reasonable rates. Call 250-246-1265 LEAVE A LEGACY. Memoirs, family cookbooks, personal histories, we can help get your project ready to press. TAKE 5, 250-245-7015. PETS 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 my home and much more. As my love is yours! Call 250-246-3394. TOO CRAZY BIRDY HOTEL. Now three locations: Victoria, Cedar and Comox Valley. Travel with peace of mind, parrot boarding in loving settings. Budgies to macaws. $7, $14, $18 for sml, md, lrg. www.toocrazybirdyhotel.com. Call Diana and Kip 250-722-2201. DOG WALKING/HIKING OFF LEASH! 2-hour avg. walk, weekly walks year-round, pick up & drop off included. Insured & Licensed. Contact Paula Plecas for a complimentary meet & greet! See us Facebook and Instagram for fun in action! Tracks Outdoor Adventures INC. Contact walken@shaw.ca or 250-754-TREC(8732).
TAKE 5 LEASHED PACK HIKES FOR YOUR BEST FRIEND. Awesome exercise & canine enrichment. Dogs return home tired & happy. Contact Dee at Little Town Pet Service littletownpetservice@ gmail.com or call/text 250-246-0252. THE PET NANNY. Let us pamper and love your pets at your home or ours. Experience and references are available. Call Shanon or Bill at 250-924-8809, Ladysmith. SENIORS LYNN’S SENIORS CARE HOME. High quality personalized care. Warm caring environment. Great food and snacks. Family events. Couples and pets welcome. Ocean views, gardens. North of Ladysmith. www.lynnsseniorcare.com. Call 250245-3391. LEAVE A LEGACY. Memoirs, family cookbooks, personal histories, we can help get your project ready to press. Available in print and eBook format. Professional publishing services for corporate or individuals. Editor@take5.ca or phone 250-2457015.
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