TAKE 5 November 2014

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Letters Cowichan Sportsplex referendum Two things that CVRD’s ‘Notice of Referendum’ for the Duncan Chesterfield Sports Society does not tell you: First, if you vote yes, you will be authorizing the CVRD to add the funding to your taxes as a permanent Line Item. The Line Items you currently have listed on your 2014 Property Tax Notice include such items as ‘Municipal Finance’, ‘Regional Planning’, and in my case, ‘G Cowichan Valley’ which happens to be the highest of all 9 Line Items. What this means is that when your Land Value and/or Improvements (eg. your home) and/or the Taxation Rate increase, the amount you pay on Line Items increase automatically. Why is the CVRD notice silent about this becoming a Line Item? You can be sure of one thing – taxes go up and, if you vote yes, so will your annual contribution to the Chesterfield Sports Society. Secondly, the amount given is per $1000 of the net taxable value of land and your improvements.

I have never seen a rate of net value per $1000 ever before.

The standard way is to give a rate per $100,000 not per $1000!

Multiplying the amount given by 100 gets it up to the normal per $100,000. For Area G $0.01490 x 100 gives $ 1.49 (I will call this the ST value). If your assessed value is, say $350,000, multiply the ST value by 3.5 and you will be paying $5.52.

For an assessed $400,000 value multiplying the ST by 4 gives $5.96. At first glance, $5.96 does not seem too bad as far as new added taxes go, but take it one step further.

I took my ST times my assessed value and then I compared that number to the amount I am already paying for recreation in Saltair. Saltair has a Line Item for Frank Jameson Community Centre and a Line Item for Saltair Recreation. By adding those amounts and calculating the percentage increase the Referendum proposes, I find that the Referendum will increase my recreation cost by 10 per cent! A 10 per cent increase for a facility in Duncan that my family has never used and probably will never use. We are voting NO and I urge you to get out and vote NO. - Jim Whittaker, Saltair

Ladysmith Waste Management is garbage Sustainable. Personal. Responsible. Progressive. These are the ideals of the modern Ladysmith garbage system, reputed to be the beacon and pride of shining light in the western world, like Reverend Moon. However, they also describe a waste management system that’s far from preferred, and far from being

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progressive is instead ridiculously antiquated: backyard toilets.

Sustainable. Personal. Responsible, and Progressive -- they compost, they are self-maintained, they force continual attention, and are a step up from blackberry leaves. I suspect I’m not alone in this pet peeve. Put bluntly, the Ladysmith garbage system does not cut down on garbage, it cuts down on Town garbage disposal. Considering it’s the Town’s paid responsibility to deal with garbage, it ought to step up and deal with it instead of leaving it the responsibility of every household -- especially in a way calculated to best suit a mature household of two and a small dog. Not to mention that the junk is just shipped thirty miles into Washington and burned there so it can blow back over here. And while the millions of dollars spent on the new dump certainly make it look like a Banff coffee shop, it’s still a dump, and still open half time if you’re lucky.

What about the families that haven’t given up on the Island and moved to Alberta? What about those who do not have either time or inclination to be constantly packing garbage to the dump? What about mothers of young children who’ve got to deal with constant dirty diapers that are only picked up once every two weeks, that is if there’s room? What if those tiny households were forced to store the waste of their small dog for two weeks at a time no matter the season, instead of dropping it in public garbage cans or just letting the dog go in the bushes?

What if that dog dropped six or eight bombs a day? What if there were two of them? Mayoral candidates and voters ought to seriously consider an overhaul of the Ladysmith garbage system. Right now the Ladysmith garbage system is nothing more than an inconvenient, unsanitary, inefficient, and unsafe vermin attractor -- much like outhouses used to be. It is utter nonsense.

Garbage is garbage, no matter what way it’s dressed up, and candidates ought to address it as such. The most simple solution is to make the extra garbage tickets free, ordered online. People would use them when they needed them, and the little bit of work it would take would provide enough of a barrier. It’s time to get progressive. - Andrew Turner and Caroline H. Davidson

Kudos for TAKE 5 TAKE 5 is our main source of advertising. It’s a pillar in the community and their publication is a valuable information piece for residents from Chemainus to Cedar. All the women are a joy to work with. - Heidi Derhousoff Bianchini GNB Builders

NOV 2014

Ladysmith’s Cathy Gilroy in Rome. She sent us this great photo and wrote “ In view of the upcoming municipal elections, my favourite magazine, Take 5, should come with me to visit the ancient Senate in Rome....“Friends, Romans, Countrymen...Lend me Your Ears...I have come not to ....” .

Letters to the editor are welcome but subject to space and editing. Multiple submissions will not be considered. Include name, address and phone number for verification only. Letters do not necessarily reflect those of TAKE 5. editor@take5.ca. or www.take5.ca

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Here’s to the good guys that live up the hill...

Ladysmith downtown, 1935.

During the Depression, Ladysmith protesters demonstrate in support of the “On to Ottawa Trek”. Photo: Ladysmith Archives

Here’s a fun piece of history. A reader came across this poem and brought it into TAKE 5. A few phone calls to the Ladysmith Archives and some of the long time residents here and we managed to track down the author or authors. The consensus is that this poem using many of Ladysmith’s early family names was written by friends for Victor Malli at his retirement party at the age of 65. Al Johnson was Master of Ceremonies. Gladys Malli says she suspects that Al Johnson, Henry Berto, and Ray Kulai may have collaborated. If you know anything more, call us.

We hope you enjoy this poem that evokes an early time and feel in Ladysmith.

On June 3, 1935 strikers made up of unemployed workers who felt forgotten by the federal government demonstrated to bring attention to their plight by laying ther complaints before Parliament. The strikers took over freight trains and got as far as Regina. Eight trekkers got to Ottawa to negotiate while 2000 protesters waited in Regina with food and shelter supplied by Saskatchewan government.

Here’s to the good guys that live up the hill, I know all their names and remember them still They gave me the good times when I was a boy They gave me their friendship I’ll always enjoy They gave me the guidance when I needed it bad They gave me laughter when things just got sad They gave me light when darkness arose They gave me strength just like old pros.

So here are some names there are quite a few And nicknames as well you may remember them too Remember Doug Walker we just call him Wug Remember Tom Twentyman he was called Zug. Then there was Ab and Billy Defrane Ab was called Tit I won’t say it again.

Remember the guy with the rotund little belly You’ll remember too don’t let your thoughts go awry

First there was Ray and then Torchy Kulai.

So move over Sam and get along little Doggie Before you forget Popovich, Jack, Maxie and Bogie.

And remember too Don’t let your brain get to woozie There was Norman Delucia we all called him Foozie.

Then there was Dootsie and Gumpy and Tiny Ulaga I have to find more names to continue this saga.

I keep thinking back, my brain needs refillin But who can forget about Jake, Abbie and Bob Stillen.

I’ll continue on – round all the neighborhood Remembering all the names I think I should And remembering too the good times we had When things got worse – the depression was bad.

So let’s find more names to continue the story Remember there was Louie and Eddie and Harry Yori.

We were always together and never alone Even stealing apples from old Jock Malone, We’d sneak to his yard on our hands and knees And steal everything that grew on his trees, Old Jock never caught us – no never did I’m sure that he knew we were just kids

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And the Buckner boys who had all the luck Each of the three were just known as Buck Carl was youngest – He had all the gab We all knew the reason He was called Cab. Lest we forget another name for the troop It was Adolph Poulain, better known as Alley Oop And just down the street and both true as an arrow Two brothers of course were Jake and George Ferraro It was Smokey Berto who did most of the ramblin’ He was part of the Mafia – He started us gamblin’ We’d meet on the street on the city boulevard Take our positions in front of Mrus’s yard There was quarrelling and fighting you’d end up with scratches No one ever believed we played just for matches But as things got hotter and it seemed kinda funny We’d go to the cabin and play there for money The betting was high – and you could make riches Too bad for the loser he’d sleep in the ditches.

But the winner was king and king for a day -For he had taken our matches and money away.

Then on to the pilot field like sheep in a herd We’ll play soccer game, so pass on the word.

With temperatures rising and a pulse full of fire you can play any position your heart may desire With hob nail boots shining and gum boots a smellin’ you’d race round the field with everyone yellin’ And when we got sweatin’ and coverd with foam, Fish took his ball and buggered off home.

So back down the alley to Malli’s back door When out of the garden there came such a roar “ Who won ball game, Vicky?

Oh! we lost again Daddy.

Well you know Vicky, somebody got to lose.”

Here are some more names – I’ll start once again Remember Frosty and Sheeny and Arthur DeFrane And for the Dewilde boys – there were just two Emil was Sparkey, Ed was called Greasy sometimes Dink to.

Gordy Schooarts was Schoony, Marshall Rollston was Mar Frank Mayovsky was Trotsky he came from afar.

Blackie Liptak, Whitey Rollston, Adolphe and Leo Vandecastyne They were all part of the hillbilly scene.

Arnie Hill was called Arnie sometimes He got Tish Just call him for beer was his favorite wish Then where was Radovich Billy and Paul Ask for a cowboy song, they sure were no patsy For nicknames of course They both just got Ratsy.

And the Copp boys too they sure brought us fame Whenever they come out in any softball game With Alex and George and Len on the bases Watch all the fans just look at their faces And watch Yogi too He sure looks great Catching the ball and covering home plate.

Fred Gilson was Red Eye, Jimmy Brown was Fish Eye And Alex Brown was called Bull or Barboo For the Battie boys its hard rhyme, I’ll take my lumps There was Tuber, Ab, Ray, Slap, Stew, Ron and Zumps Two other names and both just great guys, Harold Simpson was Mush, Les Robinson was Cy We had no nicknames at all for Johnny Kerr So far now we’ll just call him Johnny Kerr Bear Allan Johnson was known as the sultan of swat We had a nickname for him I’ve never forgot We called him peanuts when he was a child But don’t do it, It just drives him wild.

In the summer days and the September haze You would find us all up the creek No bathing suits here they make it so clear You just have to swim cheek to cheek So from hidden pool to the Diamond School To the trails in Rhinehart Valley I’ll remember your names and the wonderous games, That we played in Buckner’s alley For you are my friends clear through to the end You have been a large part of my life And to Higson’s too, I’ll remember you For you gave me my wife.

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21 years a Mayor – personal reflections on a public role When the news began to circulate that I was not seeking another term as Mayor the most common question I was asked was, “Why not?”

I would usually begin my response with, “It has been 21 years.”

A puzzled look would appear on the questioner’s face as they asked, “So?” But before I could answer, they usually answered their own question with the realization of the magnitude of 21 years of service.

How our world has changed. In 1993, when I was first elected, it was at time before emails, cellular phones, texting, and social media. The chief form of indirect communication from citizens was by the way of a letter delivered through Canada Post, often hand written, or a telephone message left on a tape recorder.

I consider myself blessed to have had the opportunity to serve as Mayor of the Town of Ladysmith for over two decades. It has been a richly rewarding experience even when it was, all too often, brutally exhausting both emotionally and physically.

The role of Mayor is a unique position in our society. It is the only head of government - local, regional, provincial or federal - that is elected at large by the citizens. It is the only elected head of government that comes with a ceremonial symbol, the chain of office, perhaps indicative of the level of responsibility – whether perceived or real - shouldered by the wearer.

Although the Mayor has significant day-to-day responsibilities there is a general perception that the Mayor has considerable independent authority. In actual fact the Mayor, at the Council ta-

ble, has no more powers than individual Councilors except in the role of chair of the meeting. Outside the Council table the Mayor has unique responsibilities including: being the spokesperson for council and the community, directing staff through the City Manager to ensure the will of Council is being followed, and having the ability to request council to reconsider a matter if the mayor believes it is in the best interest of the community to do so.

However, early in my first term, I discovered the power of the Mayor’s office to influence change within the community. In May of 1994, I shared a vision of a green street initiative to beautify our community. A vision that was readily embraced by individuals, businesses and service groups, which resulted in a profound change to the streetscapes of our community.

The role of Mayor allows one to meet and connect with rich variety of wonderful individuals and organizations within and outside our community.

Within the community, it would not be possible to count the number of doors I have knocked on, kitchen tables I have sat at, hospital beds I have stood beside, funerals I have attended, citizens I have received at my Mayor’s Open Door, community celebrations I have been part of, phone calls I have answered (some at three in the morning) or emails I have responded to. Collectively, they would number in the tens of thousands.

From outside the community, I have talked to, met with, or shared a meal with a host of local, provincial and national leaders including leaders of business, fellow Mayors, MLA’s, MP’s, Chiefs of First Nations, Leaders of the Opposition, Provincial and Federal Ministers, Premiers and Prime Ministers. I recall many a phone call with individual ministers, some late into the night, as it was the only time of day we could find to connect.

Over the years some of the most rewarding times for both Susan and I have been when we have both been invited to be part of the annual celebrations of volunteer organizations within our community where we share in their successes and accomplishments. We are so fortunate, as a community, to have so many doing their part to make this a better place.

My time as Mayor has not been without heartache, sadness, and tears. By the nature of so many human connections, I have become part of sharing in the loss experienced by individuals, families, or businesses. One of the most challenging times, I recall, was during my first term in office when we lost nine youth from our community in a period of some 18 months from a variety of causes. Our hearts ached so.

I consider myself fortunate that the Councilors I have worked with over the last seven terms have all come to the table as individuals seeking to work to-

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gether to do their part to provide good governance to our community. For the most part they have also been, by nature, community volunteers who can be found around the community helping out with one initiative or another.

As rewarding as it has been, the role has not been without great personal sacrifice. Although I have made great friendships, I have lost others, as decisions made by Council have been unacceptable to some people.

I also lost so much time with my children and family. This past August I took five days away from cell phone, internet and e-mail, away from the responsibilities of being Mayor (not to mention CVRD Chair), as we celebrated my son’s marriage in Parry Sound, Ontario.

On the flight home, in my heart, I felt a profound sense of sadness that our special family time was over far too quickly. I knew it was time to follow through on a commitment I made to my family, to take a step back, lighten my load, and pass the torch.

Our new Mayor will find Ladysmith a wonderful community filled to capacity with generous and caring people who are willing to share of themselves to make our home even better. Our new mayor will also find a professional and dedicated Town staff that provides exemplary service to our community.

Ladysmith, I thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Mayor. rhutchins@ladysmith.ca

Duck Paterson with Ladysmith Mayor Rob Hutchins at Town’s 100th birthday celebrations in 2004.

Opposite page Swearing in ceremony, 1993. Rob Hutchins with wife Susan and his son Braden.

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Cedar Yellow Point Country Christmas tour - Now 5 Exciting Days Queue the Christmas music and gas up the vehicle. The 26th annual self-guided Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Country Christmas Tour has expanded to five exciting days this year. So there is no excuse not to take the tour this year. Adventure awaits you.

Take this scenic route, experience delicious scenery, stunning country roads dotted with farms, studios, restaurants, shops and wildlife. Bring your camera; you never know what you’ll see. Discover many celebrated artists and the wonders of Cedar and Yellow Point. You will find locally-produced edibles, native art, jewelry, original paintings, woodwork,

pottery, fibre arts, glass and more.

Visit each artisan in their own creative working environment, get to know the creator, their techniques and ask questions. Take home a unique experience and a remarkable piece of art.

This year the tour will feature more than 23 individual artisans plus guest artists. The tour is never the same with new artisans offering hand blown glass to quilts, home accessories, garden art

and wood products plus yearly favourites offering pottery, fresh honey, original painting, First Nation art, fresh farm cranberries and more . The brochure and map will help you plan your day.

Download a map and watch for the tour signs to help guide you on the tour.

The complete tour can be done in one day but why not make it several and stay in a local B&B? Enjoy lunch or dinner at one of the many fine restaurants, cof-

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fee shops or pubs that are featured in the brochure. They offer some of the best food in the area and are recommended.

Whether you are new to the tour or a veteran, mark the dates on your calendar, gather up your friends, empty the trunk, pick up or download brochure from the website-and plan to have fun. For more information please visit www.cyartisans.com or call 250-245-5286 and request a brochure to be emailed to you.

November 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23. info@cyartisans.com Don’t miss this tour.

Ladysmith Little Theatre presents Always A Bridesmaid Written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten and directed

by Bill Johnston, Always a Bridesmaid tells the story of four friends who, on the night of their Senior High School Prom, swore to be in each others’ weddings…no matter what. Meanwhile, thirty plus years later, these best friends are still making “the long walk” for each other to honour that vow. This rollicking tale answers the question, “Just how far are you willing to go to keep a promise?” If you’ve ever questioned the sanity of the duo saying “I do” or been forced to wear the world’s ugliest bridesmaid dress, this hilarious play is definitely for you ... and your dearly beloved!

Ladysmith Little Theatre’s production has a winning cast with familiar faces Lynnia Clark, Carina Gee, Ann McInultyGogo and Maureen Molyneaux as the four friends and Kyla Mitrovic and Josee Duffhues rounding out the ensemble. This is one laugh out loud comedy you don’t want to miss! Runs Nov. 6 to Nov. 23.

Tickets: Non-members $20, Members $18, Groups of 10 or more $18, available at Ladysmith Little Theatre Box Office 250-924-0658, open Wednesday and Friday from 2:00 pm to 4:00pm or online www.ladysmiththeatre.com .

The Purple Pirate comes to TheatreOne TheatreOne presents The Purple Pirate’s Message in a Bottle, an innovative theatre-style dance roduction that re-defines what Opposite page: Cranberry Cottage is a popular stop on the Cedar Yellow Point Country Christmas Tour. Photo: Marina Sacht Above: Kyla Mitrovic as a bride in Ladysmith Little Theatre’s Always A Bridesmaid.

Joan Mettauer, author of Diamonds in an Arctic Sky, drew on her experience working in the great white north

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it means to be a Pirate of the TwentyFirst Century promoting the values of courage, compassion, and curiosity. Saturday, November 22, 1pm, Malaspina Theatre at VIU. Tickets are $10 each or 2 for $18 by phone 250-754-7587, online www.theatreone.org, and at the door for one hour prior to showtime.

Arctic Adventure exposes diamonds dark side Local author and retired Flight Ops Manager Joan Mettauer can tell stories far removed from the Canadian life we know, and now she has published her first book, weaving her experiences into a true Canadian mystery based in – and over - the rugged ice.

Looking like craters from a meteor shower, diamond mines have gouged out huge regions of Canada’s arctic region providing jobs for struggling communities and a source of income beyond the moon. Some Northerners reaping the benefits aren’t slaving away underground, but are high above.

Diamonds in an Arctic Sky, published

by Friesen Press, tells the story of Andi

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Nowak who, haunted by memories of her daughter, ventures north to the remote town of Inuvik and enters a challenging career at Tuktu Aviation. The discovery of a rich kimberlite pipe near the small community creates a diamondmining frenzy, and more business for Tuktu. When Andi discovers that their Twin Otter aircraft are being used for unauthorized flights, her queries to the crew are violently dismissed.

With the aid of her new friend, local gallery owner and dog-sledding enthusiast North Ruben, they plot a scheme to trace the aircraft’s mysterious movements, but their plan backfires with devastating - and deadly - results. Fear and anger spark Andi’s ravaged emotions, and although she resists, her friendship with North heats up to levels she’s never experienced.

Watch for Joan’s Reading and Signing event in April at the Ladysmith Branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library.Diamonds in an Arctic Sky is now available at Salamander Books in Ladysmith, or online from FriesenPress.com/ bookstore.

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Holiday Mystery - Sherlock Holmes and the case of the Christmas Carol After being presumed dead for three years, a hardened Sherlock Holmes resurfaces, turning his back on the people who need him most. Three unexpected callers arrive on Christmas Eve, uncovering clues from the detective’s past, present and future. Can they save Holmes and his world from a devastating conclusion all in one night? The Canadian premiere of an instant classic filled with mystery, intrigue and song for the entire family. You won’t want to miss

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this hilarious journey with some of literature’s best, loaded with laughs every step of the way. November 21 – December 22 Chemainus Theatre 250-246-9820 chemainustheatrefestival.ca Continuing its run at the Chemainus Theatre untuil November 8, is Over The River And Through The Woods to grandmother’s house–for a show! The “funny”, “touching” and “loaded with love” comedy by Tony-award winning author Joe DiPietro is a nod to happy family gatherings; however, there’s more cookedup than your typical Sunday dinner. Tickets for matinee and evening shows are available at chemainustheatre.ca, or by calling the Chemainus Theatre Festival box office at 1-800-5657738.

Broadway Musical for Adults - Avenue Q Avenue Q, (Arts Club Theatre Company), is the Tony Award-winning Broadway Musical for adults - hilarious and irreverently witty with a warm fuzzy heart. Young Princeton searches for his purpose in life among an unlikely community where puppets rub shoulders with humans. (Not a children’s show). November 12, 7:30pm, Cowichan Theatre. 250 7487529 www.cowichantheatre.ca and November 13 –14, 7:30pm Port Theatre http://www.theatreone.org

Island photographers expose the 4th dimension It is often said that a good photograph captures “a moment in time.” But does it? That is the question being explored by a group of seven Vancouver Island-based photographers known as IslandLEAP (long exposure art photographers) whose ambition it is to expose the fascinating world of the 4th dimension through images that are more than just moments in time.

“Most photographers use shutter speed to ‘freeze’ a small bit of time. Our approach is just the opposite. We use different techniques to collect and compress large spans of time into each image,” says Sucha Ollek, co-founder of IslandOpposite page: Author Joan Mettauer drew on her experience living in the north for her new book. Photo: Cindy Damphousse Sherlock Holmes is coming to Chemainus Theatre

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LEAP, “which often involves much more than just shutter speed.” http://islandleap.com/ The IslandLEAP images will be exhibited at Iron Oxide,in Nanaimo, from Nov. 14 to 20. Meet the artists at the opening reception on Nov. 14 from 6 to 8 pm. http://www.ironoxideartsupplies.com/

Ladysmith photo group learning how to take their photography to the streets The Ladysmith Camera Club is pleased to announce a special opportunity for local photographers to expand their photography into the challenging and furtive world of street photography. Vancouver-based street photographer and educator Evan Kreider will be sharing his methods and techniques for obtaining stylish and evocative images of people, places and things in a presentation at the Ladysmith Camera Club in November.

Everyone is welcome to attend the meeting which will be on Tuesday, November 25, 2014 at 7:00 pm at Hardwick Hall, High Street at 3rd Avenue in Ladysmith.

VIS Remembrance Concert The Vancouver Island Symphony presents Remembrance Day: Lest We Forget. Along with the Victoria Symphony is the Canadian Scottish Regiment Pipe and Drum Band, Geoffrey Sirett, baritone, Terence Tam, violin and conductor Tania Miller. The concert takes place Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 7:30 pm at the Port Theatre, 125 Front Street, Nanaimo.

Vancouver Island: Imagine Vancouver Island: Imagine celebrates the grit and accomplishment of the islands’ peoples through the stunning photography of Boomer Jerritt and the experienced storytelling of Peter Grant.

Boomer Jerrit has been an award winning photographer for more than two decades and Peter Grant is the bestselling author of six books. Throw the two of them together and what you have is a book that captures the soul of the Island.

While the book is pure pleasure to they eye, there’s also a story behind every photograph. Check out Jerrit and Grant’s blog at http://vancouverislandimagine.ca.

Boomer Jerrit’s post, “Hidden Hazards”, speaks of a near death experience you won’t soon forget.

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Remembrance Day Remembrance Day (also known as Poppy Day or Armistice Day) is a memorial day observed since the end of World War I to remember the members of armed forces who have died in the line of duty. Remembrance Day is observed on 11 November to recall the end of World War I on that date in 1918, “at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month,” The red remembrance poppy has become a familiar emblem of Remembrance Day due to the poem “In Flanders Fields”. These poppies bloomed across some of the worst battlefields of Flanders in World War I, their brilliant red colour an appropriate symbol for the blood spilled in the war.

Rememberance Day services here in Ladysmith begin at 10:30am with the parade from the Legion Hall to the Cenotaph. There will be rides available for Veterans.

This year due to the recent tragic events in our Nation’s capital we are reminded that our service men and women work tirelessly here at home, not only on foreign soil defending our way of life. No matter where you are this November 11, please take two minutes of silence to honour the fallen service men and women.

Seeing purple Cowichan Women Against Violence Society want you to see purple this holiday season.

CWAV Society is organizing a Purple Light Nights® event in response to growing concerns over the prevalence of violence against women and children in the Cowichan Valley. Purple Light Nights® invites residents to hang strings of purple lights in homes, business windows, and on downtown trees to be displayed in November during the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence”, a global campaign calling for the elimination of all forms of violence against women.

Local artist Mary Fox and her two friends Tru and Stella Stevens have a routine that is picking up steam. While walking Mary’s pooches Judy and Shasha, they pick up after other dogs whose owners are not so diligent. “We are out, and have the bags with us so it only makes sense that if you see something that was left behind you pick it up,” says Mary. This is a problem that plagues many of our streets and it is nice to know that we have a team of dedicated walkers that are willing to do what it takes.

Photo: Rob Johnson

In 2013 Ladysmith Mayor and Town Council committed to honouring Purple Light Nights® in Ladysmith in strong support of the fact that gender violence has no place in our community. The Festival of Lights committee dedicated a tree on the south-east corner of Roberts and First Avenue in Ladysmith as the Purple Tree in support of Cowichan Women Against Violence. Council members personally donated the funds to purchase purple lights and mount a placard explaining exactly what the purple tree signifies.

“Ladysmith is a role model in the Cowichan Valley and we raise our hands to Mayor and Council and the Festival of Lights for their dedicated support of the Purple Lights campaign”, said Kendra Thomas, community victim services worker for CWAV Society.

Nanaimo Airport welcomes second WestJet Flight It’s been 16 months since WestJet Encore began daily non-stop service from Nanaimo to Calgary. During that time, the Nanaimo Airport has enjoyed strong passenger growth, which has resulted in the addition of a second WestJet Encore non-stop flight to Calgary.

“Developing service is key to Nanai-

mo Airport’s continued growth to ensure safe, reliable transportation for Central Vancouver Island residents,” shares Mike Hooper, President and CEO of the Nanaimo Airport. “The addition of the second flight to Calgary, is a major indicator of how strongly the mid-island region is supporting the new service.” This new flight brings the total daily scheduled departures from YCD to 14 flights.

In the first six months of 2014, the Nanaimo Airport has enjoyed an average of 33.3% growth per month. Year to date growth in 2014 has been 21%.

2014 Online Auction Support the Chemainus Theatre by bidding on one of the fabulous items on their 2014 Online Auction. Offered this year are selected limited edition serigraphs by internationally acclaimed artist Arthur Vickers, getaway packages, day trips, and more. Proceeds from this auction benefit the Chemainus Theatre Festival Society and will help them to continue presenting engaging and enriching live theatre for Vancouver Island residents and visitors. The auction oncludes on Saturday, November 15 at 9pm at the annual gala benefit ‘Sherlock’s Masquerade’. chemainustheatrefestival.ca/support-us/online-auction/

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November 1

Secondary School

Cinema. 250-754-7587

1, 11-2pm, St. Mary’s Annual Christmas Bazaar.

11135 4th Ave., Ladysmith

7, 2pm, Ladysmith Health & Community Services Fair, Free Flu Shots, 20 displays, wellness for all ages, Aggie Hall 1110 1st Ave. 250-739-5777

11, 10:30am Parade to Ladysmith Cenotaph from Legion Hall. Rides available for Veterans.

250-245-2273

7, 7pm, In the Bean Time Café presents Tim Readman and Jennie Bice.

12, 7:30pm, Avenue Q, The Broadway musical for adults, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St, Duncan. 250-748-7529

1-2, Naniamo Conservatory of Music Presents Vancouver Island Chamber Music Festival. Call 250-754-4611 for full details.

1, 10am, Wild Mushroom Workshop, custom workshop and tours, Wildwood Forest in Yellow Point ecoforesty@gmail.com 1, 10am, Nanaimo Museum - “Ring of Fire: Canadians in the Pacific in WWII”, 100 Museum Way. 250-753-1821 1, 7:30pm, The Comic Strippers, male stripper parody, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St, Duncan. 250-748-7529 1, 8pm, “Over the River and Through the Woods”, This heartwarming and hilarious family comedy plays with old world values, new family traditions and the differences between the generations, Chemainus Theatre Festival. 250-246-9820

November 2-8 2-8, 10am, Nanaimo Museum - “Ring of Fire: Canadians in the Pacific in WWII”, 100 Museum Way. 250-753-1821

8, 10am, Wild Mushroom Workshop, custom workshop and tours, Wildwood Forest in Yellow Point ecoforesty@gmail.com 8,10am, Crofton Art Group’s annual Fall show and sale of unframed and matted paintings also art cards, jewelry and pottery Crofton Senior’s Centre next to the ferry dock. Refreshments, 250-2457738 8, 11-2, St. John’s Anglican Church Christmas Bazaar. 314 Buller & 3rd Ave. Ladysmith

November 9-15 9-15, 10am, Nanaimo Museum - “Ring of Fire: Canadians in the Pacific in WWII”, 100 Museum Way. 250-753-1821 9, 10am, Colour Party and Band visits St. Philips Anglican Church.

9, 10:30am, Colour Party and Band visits La Rosa Gardens.

2, 10am, Spawning Day at the Nanaimo River Hatchery. A family friendly event admission by donation. 250-245-7780

9, 1,4,7pm, Words & Pictures, Theatre One Fringe Flicks award winning independent films, Avalon Cinema. 250-754-7587

2 & 4-8, 8pm, “Over the River and Through the Woods” This heartwarming and hilarious family comedy plays with old world values, new family traditions and the differences between the generations, Chemainus Theatre Festival 250246-9820

9, 2pm, Colour Party and Band visits The Lodge on 4th.

6, 7:30pm, Always A Bridesmaid, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658 7-8, 6pm, Always A Bridesmaid, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658 7, 10:45, Colour Party and Band visits Ladysmith

9, 2:30pm, Tidesmen Chorus Benefit Concert featuring special guests Joelle Rabu and the Sweet Adelines, Nanaimo Ecumenical Centre.

10, 5pm, Odika - Celebrating our 4th Anniversary in the heart of Chemainus, 2976 Mill St. 250-3243303 10, 7pm, Words & Pictures, Theatre One Fringe Flicks award winning independent films, Avalon

12, 7:30pm, Lest We Forget w/ Victoria Symphony Canadian Scottish Regiment Pipe and Drum Band, Port Theatre, 125 Front St. 250-754-8550 13, 7:30pm, Always A Bridesmaid, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658 14-15, 6pm, Always A Bridesmaid, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658 15, 8am, Local Elections, make your vote count!

15, 11-2, Ladysmith First United Church Christmas Bazaar. High Street and 3rd Ave. 15, Music Trivia & Pub Dinner, Royal Canadian Legion #171, 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273

November 16-22 16, 1:30pm, Always A Bridesmaid, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658 17, 10:30am, Morning Musicale: Pianist Sarah Hagen with Joan Blackman on violin, an intimate concert experience where the audience shares the stage, Cowichan Theatre 250-748-7529 18, LRCA Christmas Cheer Registration begins, 630 2nd Ave. 250-245-3079 19, 11:30am, Soup & Sandwich, Chemainus Seniors Centre, 9824 Willow St. 250-246-2111 19, 7:30pm, N.O. & Area Historical Society Annual General Meeting, 13467 Cedar Rd. North Oyster Community Centre. 250-245-0919 20, 1:30pm, Seniors information session, Eagles Hall. 921-1st Ave. 250-245-4460 20, 7pm, Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club monthly meeting, St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church Hall, 314 Buller St. at 3rd Ave.

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20, 7:30pm, Always A Bridesmaid, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658

Hardwick Hall, 228 High Street, Ladysmith, www.

LadysmithCameraClub.com

20, Music Trivia & Pub Dinner, Royal Canadian Legion #171, 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273

21-22 8:05pm, Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol. An instant classic filled with mystery, intrigue and song for the entire family, Chemainus Theatre Festival. 250-246-9820

27, 3pm, 27th Annual Festival of Lights, Craft Fair, Spaghetti Dinner, Entertainment, Parade and Fireworks, downtown Ladysmith.

December 21-27

21-22, 6pm, Always A Bridesmaid, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658

28, 7:30pm, Dracula: Ballet Victoria’s inspired choreography portrays the pathos of a vampire in love, Cowichan Theatre. 250 748-7529

22, 1pm, TheatreOne presents The Purple Pirate’s Message in a Bottle, 900 Fifth St. 250-754-7587

November 30

22, 7:30pm, Mozart & Friends Vancouver Island Symphony, Port Theatre, 125 Front St. 250-7548550

30, 8:05pm, Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol. An instant classic filled with mystery, intrigue and song for the entire family, Chemainus Theatre Festival 250-246-9820

22, 7:30pm, Harry Manx, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St, Duncan. 250-748-7529 22, 7:30pm, Evening Social Dance with Dan Hughes & Seniors, Chemainus Seniors Centre, 9824 Willow St. 250- 246-2111

November 23-29 23 & 25-29, 8:05pm, Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol. An instant classic filled with mystery, intrigue and song for the entire family, Chemainus Theatre Festival. 250-2469820 23, 1,4,7pm, Art & Craft, Theatre One Fringe Flicks award winning independent films, Avalon Cinema. 250-754-7587

December 1-6 1, 7pm, Ladysmith Town Council meeting, 410 Esplanade. 250-245-6400 2-6, 8:05pm, Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol. An instant classic filled with mystery, intrigue and song for the entire family, Chemainus Theatre Festival 250-246-9820

December 7-13 7 & 9-13, 8:05pm, Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol. An instant classic filled with mystery, intrigue and song for the entire family, Chemainus Theatre Festival. 250-246-9820

23, 1:30pm, Always A Bridesmaid, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658

December 14-20

23, 7pm, A Night to Sparkle, join Pharmasave for an evening of pampering, tickets available at 441 1st Ave. 250-245-3113

14 & 16-20, 8:05pm, Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol. An instant classic filled with mystery, intrigue and song for the entire family, Chemainus Theatre Festival. 250-246-9820

24, 7pm, Art & Craft, Theatre One Fringe Flicks award winning independent films, Avalon Cinema.

250-754-7587 25, 7:00pm, Ladysmith Camera Club “Street Photography” with Vancouver-based street photographer and educator Evan Kreider,

15, 7pm, Ladysmith Town Council meeting, 410 Esplanade 250-245-6400 19 - 20, 8pm, Pirates of the Panto, The Nanaimo Theatre Group. Follow the treasure from Bristol Docks to Discoland. Bailey Studio, 250-758-7224

21-22, 8:05pm, Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol. An instant classic filled with mystery, intrigue and song for the entire family, Chemainus Theatre Festival. 250-246-9820 21 - 27, 8pm, Pirates of the Panto, The Nanaimo Theatre Group. Follow the treasure from Bristol Docks to Discoland. Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd. 250-758-7224

December 28-31 28-31, 8pm, Pirates of the Panto, The Nanaimo Theatre Group. Follow the treasure from Bristol Docks to Discoland. Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd. 250-758-7224 (l-r) Remembrance Day Services Nov 11, parade begins at 10:30am Avenue Q, Nov. 12, 7:30pm, Cowichan Theatre, Nov 13 –14, 7:30pm Port Theatre LDBA Old Tyme Christmas Dec 5

Nov 1-2, 11am Mary Fox Pottery Sale 2014. 321 3rd Ave. Ladysmith. 250-2453778 Nov 1, 11am-2pm CWL Christmas Bazaar at St. Mary’s Parish. 1153 4th Ave. Lunch, crafts, sewing, baking, books and lots of gift ideas. 250-2453414 Nov 2, 10am LaFF Mistletoe Merchants. Aggie Hall will be filled with vendors.

Nov 7, 9:30am-9pm The Nanaimo Pottery Co-op’s Holiday Show and Sale.

24 potters are stocked up. Country Club Centre, 3200 North Island Hwy. Nov 8, 9:30am-5:30pm The Nanaimo Pottery Co-op’s Holiday Show and Sale.

24 potters are stocked up. Country Club Centre, 3200 North Island Hwy. Nov 8, 11am-2pm St. John’s Anglican Church Christmas Bazaar. 314 Buller St. Lunch, bake table, crafts, and more.

250-245-8872 Nov 9, 11am-5:30pm The Nanaimo Pottery Co-op’s Holiday Show and Sale.

24 potters are stocked up. Country Club Centre, 3200 North Island Hwy. Nov 13 -14, 12-8pm Annual Christmas Chaos. Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St. 250-748-7529 Nov 15, 11am-2pm Christmas Bazaar and Tea. Bake table, crafts, jewelry, kid’s area, and books along with tea.

Ladysmith First United Church Hall, 232 High Street.

Nov 15-16, 10am-5pm Annual Christmas Chaos. Island Savings Centre, 2687

James St. 250-748-7529 Nov 20-23, 10am-4pm Carols Craft Market 6th Annual Christmas Craft Fair.

North Oyster Community Centre, 13467 Cedar Rd. 250-754-8905 Nov 19-23, 10am-5pm 25th Annual Yellowpoint Country Christmas Self Guided Tour. Four days of fun food and local artisan talent. For more info www. cyartisans.com Nov 20- 23 21th Anniversary Kris Kringle Craft Market. Come visit our new location Beban Park in Nanaimo, 2300 Bowen Rd. Bigger, better and more Christmassy than ever.

Nov. 21-Dec 22 Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol. Chemainus Theatre Festival. 250-246-9820 Nov 22, 9am-12pm Christmas Pancake Breakfast with Santa, prepared by N.O.A.H.S. at the Cedar Community Hall. Breakfast, Kids $2, Adults $5 door prizes, crafts, fun for everyone!

Nov 22, 11am-1:30pm Christmas Bazaar. St. Michael and All Angels Anglican Church, Chemainus. Baking, Christmas crafts, jewelry, new to you table. English Tea lunch available.

Nov 27, 3pm 26th Annual Festival of Lights. Entertainment, concessions, craft fair at the Aggie Hall, spaghetti dinner at the Eagles Hall, Kinsmen parade along 1st Ave, LDCU Fireworks Spectacular.

Lights stay on until Jan 4/15.

Nov. 27, 3pm, Ukrainian Dinner upstairs Legion Hall 621 1st Ave. cabage rolls, bratwurst sausages, sauerkraut,

perogies. Adults $ 10 children ( 12-) $ 5 for tickets call 250-245-2273 Nov 27, 2pm Ladysmith Museum will be open for Festival of Lights.

Nov 27, 6pm Enjoy hot chocolate by donation for the Royal Shelter Foundation in front of Royal LePage office. 528 1st Ave. Nov 28, 1pm 7th Annual Christmas Craft Extravaganza. Delightful Christmas gift ideas, Quality Resort Bayside, 240 Dogwood Street, Parksville.

Nov. 29, 9:30am-3pm, Christmas Craft Fair, Town and Country Mobile Home Park.10980 Westdowne Rd. Free admission, wheelchair accessible. 250245-8655 Nov 29, 10am-2pm Cassidy Mobile Home Park Craft Fair. Bake table, crafts, tea, and raffle. 1572 Seabird Rd. 250245-2725 Nov 29, 10am -2pm South Wellington and Area Community Association Christmas Craft Sale, South Wellington Community Hall, 1555 Morden Rd. 250754-2820 Dec 5-7, 4-9pm Christmas Express, BC Forest Museum, 2892 Drinkwater Road, Duncan, 250-715-1113 Dec 5-14, 3pm & 7pm Yellow Point Christmas Spectacular. Cedar Community Hall, 2388 Cedar Rd. 250-754-8550 Dec 6, 9am-2pm Christmas Craft Fair. Chemainus Legion Hall, 9775 Chemainus Rd. 250-246-2481 Dec 5 LDBA hosts 3rd Annual Old Tyme Christmas. Downtown Ladysmith,

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featuring two horse drawn carriage rides, caroling, treats and more!

Dec 5, 2pm Ladysmith Museum will be open.

Dec 6, 8am & 10:30am LaFF’s Breakfast with Santa. Aggie Hall, 1110 1st Ave., Early bird tickets (Nov 1-30) $6 ea. Regular tickets (Dec 1-5) $8 ea.

Children under 2 are free, still require a ticket. Tickets available at FJCC as of Nov 1.

Dec 6, 9am Chemainus Elementary Breakfast with Santa. Chemainus Elementary School. 250-246-0786 Dec 6, 10am-4pm Chemainus Christmas Walking Tour, downtown Chemainus.

Dec 6, 7:30pm Tiding Concert. Port Theatre, 125 Front St. 250-754-8550 Dec 6, 7pm A Celtic Christmas. Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., Duncan 250-748-7529 Dec. 6 Chemainus Legion Craft Sale.

Tables available for $12 each from Jean, 250-246-2481.

Dec. 7, 10am-3pm Christmas Aglow Art Sale.Uniquely handcrafted gifts. 146 Glen Ave. off Old Chemainus Rd., Ladysmith

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Dec 7, 6:30pm 38th Annual Ladysmith Christmas Festival of Choirs, Bethel Tabernacle, 1149 4th Ave. Enjoy an evening of music.

Dec 9 Nutcracker - Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Port Theatre, 125 Front St. 250-754-8550 Dec 13, 31st Annual Christmas Lights Cruise, vessels depart 6pm from Ladysmith Marina, weather permitting, public viewing at Transfer Beach. 250-2458339 For more visit www.take5.ca/events

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27th Annual Ladysmith Festival Of Lights

Singers at Ladysmith’s Festival of Lights, 2013. There will be lots of live entertainment for the family on Light Up Night. . Photo: Duck Paterson

Light-Up - Thursday, Nov. 27, 2014

The popular Festival fundraising community Spaghetti Dinner at the Eagles Hall and the Festival Craft and Artisan Fair at the Aggie Hall begins at 3pm. Everyone is welcome and this year it should prove to be an even bigger and better presentation so come early. Also, many restaurants throughout Ladysmith will be open to serve you with an excellent choice of delicious meals plus a variety of food concessions located all along First Avenue. Wandering entertainers and musicians will delight the child in all of us plus stages at two downtown locations will present more local musical talents. As night falls over the darkened street, Santa Claus will arrive from the North Pole to pull the big switch that magically turns on all the lights. The ever-popular Ladysmith Kinsmen parade will begin along First Avenue and proceed to the Aggie Field where more spectacular light-ups take place at Bob Stuart Park and the Chuck Perrin Christmas tree. The evening will end with a bang - of spec-

The Town of Ladysmith will be transformed once again into a magical place of sparkling and twinkling holiday lights and decorations beginning with an afternoon and evening spectacular celebration on Thursday, November 27.

The Ladysmith Festival of Lights Society invite you to come out and enjoy the 27th Anniversary of Light-Up Night. These fun-filled, family-oriented festivities welcome the 2014 holiday season. Be dazzled by over 100,000 twinkling lights presented in a style echoing of years gone by. From Coronation Mall at the south end of town to the downtown core on First Avenue and all the way to Aggie Field at the north end, businesses and homes will sparkle and glow as a result of thousands of hours of volunteer work.

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tacular fireworks presented by the Ladysmith & District Credit Union. What a wonderful way to spend time with your family and friends in the “Light-Up Capital” of Ladysmith!

The Festival of Lights Society would like to acknowledge the generous support from local and area businesses and private individuals including our corporate sponsors: the Ladysmith & District Credit Union, Town of Ladysmith, Agropur, Division Natrel - Island Farms, Ladysmith and Chase River Tim Hortons, and CTV. In 1987, Bill Fitzpatrick first considered the concept of stringing a few lights on local business buildings to draw some attention to the approaching holiday season. He could never have imagined how his small idea has now become a yearly event for over 20,000 visitors who join Santa in flipping the light switch. It is through the unfailing and generous efforts of the countless volunteers that this tradition remains alive and well in Ladysmith.

If you would like to participate in this yearly event, either at the volunteer or board level, contact the Festival of Lights 250245-5888 or visit www.ladysmithfol.com.

Old Tyme Christmas On December 5, from 5pm - 8pm, Ladysmith will turn back the clock to bring the 1920’s alive on 1st Avenue. Come and listen for the sounds of your favourite Christmas carols and take in the Live Nativity Scene. Watch out for Santa arriving! Ride the trolley down the main street of Ladysmith or take in a story time read. Late night shopping too! Childminding available all

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night, upstairs at the Legion Hall, so you can enjoy the walk then take the kids to a craft centre while you relax and enjoy seeing all that downtown Ladysmith has to offer. Be on the lookout for the Old Tyme Christmas map... showing you where you can take the kids for a special treat or a craft activity.

There will be carolling throughout the night under streetlamps and people all in dress strolling along to make the feeling just right! Join in for a verse or too and let the holiday spirit sink in to your bones. When the clock strikes eight... head home with your shopping done and your wrapping complete! No mad rush this Christmas... plan ahead... watch for the Christmas Shopping blog posts on the LDBA website and discover what’s inside the doors of First Avenue.

Breakfast with Santa Saturday Dec. 6 is LaFF’s 10th Annual Breakfast with Santa.

Two seatings, 8am - 10am or 10:30am to 12.30pm. Aggie Hall on 1st Avenue. Early bird tickets ($6) available now until Nov 30. Regular priced tickets ($8) December 1-5, children under 2 free. Tickets at the Frank Jameson Community Centre.

Kirsten Carlos, LaFF Event Coordinator says they are looking for donations of items/goods/certificates for their Breakfast with Santa silent auction. LaFF is also inviting the public and business community to help them reach their goal of 100 sponsored tickets for Breakfast with Santa. Each ticket is valued at $6. Please contact them at laffeventcoordinator@hotmail .com

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BC Civic Election 2014: Meet your candidates TAKE 5 invited all the candidates to submit a brief bio and answer the question: If you had it in your poower to change one thing what would it be and why.

Some of the candidates did not respond by press time. Some choose to not repond in fear of having their responses edited.

We encourage you to look them up, ask questions and get informed before you cast your vote on November 15. To view candidates full responses and photos visit take5.ca or facebook. com/take5publications

School District 68 Trustee Candidates NELSON ALLEN Nelson holds a B.Ed., University of BC, M.A. in Political Science, University of Western Washington in Public Policy, Administration and Comparative Government. He considers himself a community builder, involved in civic government and volunteer community work for over 40 years. His two major careers were Teaching and Certified Financial Planner. ”That all levels of government in the region would establish a “children first” policy that would have at its center, the elimination of child poverty, equal opportunity for all children to a world class education.”Website: www.electionsnanaimo.com Facebook.com/AllenforTrustee Twitter.com/AllenforTrustee BILL BARD - INCUMBENT Bill has been a Nanaimo resident for almost 25 years and his involvements include CUPE Trustee Liason committee, Anti-Vandalism and is Chairman of SOGI (Sexual Orientation Gender Identity) committee. He is a strong advocate for safer schools, child mental illness in schools, 21st Century Learning models including RTI and Self Regulation; the maintaining of Librarians in schools, adequate and improved funding from the province.

“If I alone had the power to change one thing in this community it would be to return all public funds being given to private schools, to public schools. “

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NATASHA BOB Natasha believes that there is a Spirit of Learning. She feels that what we learn and what we dream creates our community and that our schools and our community are intrinsically linked.

Natasha has been a Youth Worker at Tillicum Le Lum, NYSA and now works as a Permanency Planner at Kw’umut Lelum.

She has been involved with youth initiatives in her home community of Snaw -Naw -As (Nanoose First Nation) for many years.

“If I had the power to change one thing, it would be to eliminate race based politics.”Website: www.natashabob.ca Twitter: @natashabob77 JAMIE BRENNAN - INCUMBENT Jamie works for Community Legal Assistance Society, Mental Health Law Program as a Legal Advocate, He believes that a strong public education system is essential to an effective and participatory democracyand providing young people with the skills and knowledge to contribute to our society ensures that we all benefit.

“The one thing I would like to change is the dismal turnout for local elections. Many fought for our democracy; it is a shame that so few value it enough to vote when they can.”

TANIA BRZOVIC Tania was born and raised in Nanaimo, as part of a family that views a healthy public system as the cornerstone of a strong community. She believes that her experience in advo-

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cacy, coupled with her work on various boards has given her the background needed to be an effective school trustee.

“If I had the power to change just one thing in this community, it would be to create more desire and opportunity for the public to get involved in the decision making process.”

ALANA CAMERON For the past 2 1/2 years Alana has served as president of the Nanaimo District Parents Advisory Council and has been heavily involved in many issues that the district faces. She has most recently sat on the districts assessment committee, has overseen the districts transition committees, worked with parents to help them advocate for their children.

“If I had the ability to change one thing in this district it would be childhood poverty. It is so hard for a child to learn and focus on what the teacher is saying when they are sitting in class hungry, unable to concentrate and unable to focus on the task in front of them.”

NANCY CURLEY - INCUMBENT PATRICIA GRAND Patricia has had 13 years of experience in Community Consultation. She believes that education is being badly served when parental concerns are not acknowledged, family decisions are often dependent upon school access, and the process was shortcircuited and unfair to the children.

“I would do everything possible to repair the relationship between the SD68 and the Cedar/Ladysmith Community. Our Community has grown and it is time to look at Education realistically.”

STEPHANIE HIGGINSON Stephanie is the mother of two young boys, and a former award winning high school teacher with a Master’s in Educational Studies. “If I could change one thing within the SD68 community it would be to improve the relationships that exist with the stakeholder groups and the SD68 management. In these challenging times in education, we all need to be working together, through meaningful collaboration, in order to provide our students with a dynamic and inspiring education.”

Website: www.higginson4trustee.ca or Facebook page; higginson4trustee.

KIM HOWLAND - INCUMBENT SCOTT KIMLER Scott Kimler lives in Yellowpoint and is a retired scientist (MS Geophysics). With public education under duress, he believes that the best way forward is by working with all stakeholders to seek creative solutions. “We’re in this together” “Community’ is a matter of perspective. For my world community it would be peace. For my provincial community, it would be adequately funding and prioritizing public education. For my school district community it would be school trustees that worked toward equality in representation, stakeholder engagement and had critical thinking skills. www.facebook.com/kimler4trustee www.twitter.com/randsco www.kimler4trustee.ca

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ROSMY JEAN LOUIS Rosmy has been a professor for 18 years, of which ten are with Vancouver Island University where he is currently the Chair of the Economics Department and instructor for the MBA/MScIB Program. “My goal is to improve the quality of education for every kid to have the same chance at the start, and as a result, for more people to call Nanaimo and Ladysmith home, and for more businesses to flourish. Email: jlrosmy@yahoo.ca NOAH ROUTLEY TERRY LYNN SAUNDERS - INCUMBENT JEFF SOLOMON Jeff, is a retired Child Protection Social Worker with a degree in Social Work and Child and Youth Care. A resident of Nanaimo for 31 years, he has three adult children, one of whom is mentally handicapped.

“I would like it to be a priority for schools to be supported and maintained in their community. I believe we have the power to make that happen.” https://www.facebook.com/JeffSolomonSD68 SHARON WELCH - INCUMBENT Sharon holds a Masters Degree in Leadership and has more than 20 years teaching, management, and Human Resources experience. As a second term School Trustee, she used her ability to engage the community in the Ladysmith extended consultation on school closures, fought for bussing in CedarLadysmith, and kept North Oyster open.

“I believe that more collaboration between internal and external stakeholders is foundational to our District’s success. I have visited all schools in the District during my two terms, and I think it’s really important to take the time to talk to students, parents, staff and community members. “ www.swelch4trustee.weebly.com for more information.

CATHERIN MORLEY DOT NEARY - INCUMBENT Dot has been a SD68 Trustee since 2008 and is currently Board Chair. She says she is passionate about improving the learning and life chances of students and believes public education should be a top priority on the government’s agenda.

“If I could change one thing in this community it would be that every citizen is well informed about the issues, and engaged enough in the process, to exercise his or her democratic right to vote in civic elections.” www.facebook.com/electdotneary LUCY OXMAN Lucy is an Executive Member of her Labour Council, University Student, mother and active community member.

“I would make post secondary education free because I believe it should be an extension of Public Education.”

Facebook “Vote Lucy Oxman” votelucyoxman@gmail.com.

STEVE RAE Steve has lived in the Nanaimo area for 10 years. He says he is passionate about public education and brings his strong

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business background and ability to build strong relationships to the table.

“If I could change one thing it would be the relationships that exsist between SD68 and its stakeholders. To move forward as a team, you need to have an open, honest, and respectful relationship with your partners. One built on trust and a common goal.” Website: www.rae4trustee.ca Facebook: rae4tuste or email rae4trustee@gmail.com BILL ROBINSON - INCUMBENT Bill says that he is a full-time School District 68 Trustee with a long-time passion for public education, that he is someone

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who always does what he believes to be the “right thing” for students across the district, and a calm voice of reason whose motto is, “research, listen, evaluate, vote.”

“If I had the power to change just one thing in this community, I would provide a wide range of employment opportunities for young parents.”

MARK ROBINSON Mark is a single father of three daughters, and a Sales Consultant/Language Specialist with 10+ years as an ESL instructor.

He has experience with boards: vice-chairing SD68 Race Relations Committee, Nanaimo Family Court Committee, Canada

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Day Society (fundraising chair), 2nd vice-president Nanaimo Volunteer and Information Society.

“I believe that if the community has the ability to elect our officials then we should have the ability to unelect our officials.

I am proud to have put this philosophy into successful practice for the first time in Canadian history at the provincial level, and I would be proud on your behalf to implement this at the local level.” http://sites.google.com/site/votemarkrobinson2014/ BILL WINDLEY

Ladysmith Mayor Candidates GORD HORTH Gord, a local government professional for 27 years, has been deeply involved in a number of successful projects in Ladysmith: Amphitheatre, Holland Creek trails, Forrest Field among other things.

“Waterfront redevelopment and cleanup has the ability to positively affect the community on so many levels. New jobs during build out and long-term, the possibility of a spectacular setting for visitors arriving by water, as well as an enticing attraction for vehicle traffic travelling to and through our community on the Trans Canada highway. Any communities would love to have this asset, one that has been sadly underutilized as a job source, tax base, recreation area, and overall community gem. Starting to actually transform the waterfront (rather than more studies) would attract new businesses both downtown and the waterfront. One of the immediate benefits is a broadening of the tax base which allows for new revenues to be created to invest in services and activities citizens are looking for (there is a long list). Along with new revenue, construction employment is created but more importantly, long term job opportunities emerge that give better employment choices to all citizens.

We have seen what the Ladysmith Maritime Society has done as well as the Arts Council through the Waterfront Gallery, using a small portion of the waterfront – imagine the other possibilities if the vast remainder becomes more than a nice place to walk your dog. We have seen many coastal communities use their waterfronts to good effect. It’s about time Ladysmith did the same.”

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MARSH STEVENS Marsh says there is a feeling in Ladysmith that exciting change is around the corner and he is committed to leading that change. He feels that he has the education, the experience, the drive and, most importantly, the respect for the citizens of the Town that can bring about positive change. He is not as well known as the other candidates and will be knocking on every door he possibly can this election to change that. In the mean time, if you want to know more about him go to facebook.com/ marsh4mayor where you will find information on his personal life, educational background and employment experience.

“I would change voter turn-out numbers. In the 2011 election 28.9% of Ladysmith Voters came out to the polls. Regardless of what one thinks of Victoria or Ottawa, it is Municipal Government that affects our day to day lives the most. We all live busy lives but I regard voter turnout as the best indication of the health of any democracy. If numbers are low it can indicate a feeling of resignation - of ‘What’s the use?’ among citizens.

Win or lose, if Ladysmith were to see a 10 or 15% bump in voter turnout in this election, and I had something to do with that, I would regard that as a victory in and of itself.”

Email: marsh4mayor@gmail.com AARON STONE Aaron describes himself as a husband, father, foster parent, entrepreneur, community leader and advocate for Ladysmith’s citizens. He says he has a keen sense of the issues faced by the town and is working tirelessly to enable economic growth throughout the community and to improve the welfare of its citizens. He believes in being open, hard working and accountable, and connecting with people is key in developing a shared vision for the future.

“Increase the business development and investment opportunities in our community. A strong commercial zone builds our tax base, increases local employment opportunities and builds the foundation of a vibrant community. With a healthy business district, we can garner the continued investment required to move Ladysmith forward to achieve our shared goals and dreams. By asking hard questions and making solid plans, we will build the foundation for our future by working together in an open and inclusive way.”

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Candidates for Ladysmith Council STEVE ARNETT - INCUMBENT Steve is a MSW Registered Social Worker and the CEO of Nanaimo Youth Services Association.

Steve believes in “Caring, Common, Sense, Competence, Commitment, Collaboration, Continuity.”

“I would immediately reopen or replace Davis Road School in the south end of our town and restore real choice for our local families and their children. Closing a Ladysmith school on the basis of a financial rationale that primarily benefits the Nanaimo portion of the School District was just plain wrong. It has undermined the continuity of education and community cohesion in terms of our overall quality of life for the elementary aged children of our town.”

BOB CROSS Bob and his wife Debra moved to Ladysmith in 2004. Previously they had lived in Edmonton, where he had just finished a 4 1/2 year contract with the Government of Guyana in South America.

“If I could change one thing in Ladysmith it would be the approach the town has to tourism. We have an amazing town with so much to offer. My approach would be to re-establish advisory board, working with the town, Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Business Association to formulate a strategy. We need more hotel accommodation as well as a recreation vehicle park. There are too many tourists passing through to go somewhere else. Economically we need these people to stop here.”

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JILLIAN DASHWOOD - INCUMBENT Jill has enjoyed 17 years of living in and being part of the business community of Ladysmith and has served two terms as Town Councillor. She believes in “more communication, more collaboration, more accountability.”

“Our waterfront is often where people first see our Community. We have a great start with the Ladysmith Maritime Society boat basin, museum, and welcome centre. Change will come by working on this Area Plan and revamping it for today’s needs as well as providing an attractive business environment for Investors; creating new business areas to service the boating public; cleaning up our harbour and working with First Nations for economic development.” www.jilliandashwoodforcouncil.com jilliandashwood@ gmail.com BILL DRYSDALE - INCUMBENT Bill is a retired 28 year veteran of Canada’s Air Force, previously managing flight-line operations and aircraft maintenance teams. He and his wife Deb moved to Ladysmith in 2006 and have two daughters. Bill was first elected to Council in 2011.

He also serves with Ladysmith Search and Rescue and the Eagles, and volunteers with numerous community groups.

“I would build a two level parking garage under the Little League Ball Diamond, raising it level with Second Avenue to protect harbour views. “ CAL (BUTCH) FRADIN Cal “Butch” Fradin has lived in Ladysmith for over 45 years and is a recent retired professional public servant who worked for the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for 35 years as an engineering technician. He lives, plays and works in Ladysmith with his life partner Tina and enjoys its “small town” flavour.

“To encourage people to change their attitudes on why they should vote be it a municipal, provincial or federal election.

Encourage our young people to participate and become more involved in all levels of politics...youth are the future leaders in all levels of government and they bring forth the new and visionary ideas that will change how we live today and tomorrow.” email: Cal.Fradin@shaw.ca

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JOSEPH FRIESENHAN Joseph recently retired from the Town where he was the Director of Public Works for over 13 years. Having worked for various municipal governments in both Alberta and BC for over 31 years in a senior management capacity he feels that he can bring exciting and innovative ideas to our community.

“We have a beautiful community...Our roads and infrastructure however are in major need of repairs and I would work towards that end. I would also work towards making it easier for someone wishing to start a new business in town by reducing or eliminating any red tape that may hinder that process.”

CAROL HENDERSON Carol has happily called Ladysmith her home since 2004.

Through community feedback and knowledge gained while volunteering with non-profit organizations, she feels she could contribute meaningfully on council.

“I would enforce the Town’s own guidelines (Development Permit Areas) which entail environmental practices and those dealing with Specific Use Regulations ( ZoningBylaw 2014 No: 1860). It seems a waste of paper and staff time if these documents are just show pieces. Cleaning up damage is more expensive than prevention.” www.facebook.com/electmecarol!

ROBERT HUTCHINS Rob is a retiredteacher and school counselor and currently owner/partner in the Old Town Bakery and Wild Poppy Bistro. His community involvement includes Mayor, Town of Ladysmith and Director of the CVRD, as well as positions with Island Coastal Economic Trust, Our Cowichan Community Health Network and the Cowichan Watershed Board.

“To clean up the inner harbour between Transfer Beach and Fishermen’s Wharf. From the early 1900’s to 1984 a number of heavy industries - a copper smelter, coal washing, and a log sort left millions of tons of industrial waste including: heavy metals such as copper and cadmium, coal slack, and wood debris. This environmental contamination, a provincial government responsibility, needs to be remediated or removed if our community is going to fully enjoy and utilize our waterfront.”

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CATHLEEN MCMAHON THEA MELVIN Thea was born and raised in Ladysmith, and is married with two sons, 16 and 18 She has worked for the RCMP nearly 10 years. She represented Ladysmith/Cowichan on the Citizens Assembly for Electoral Reform back in 2006.Thea is excited to be running for Council; she wants to be a voice so people know they are being heard around the Council table.

“I would like to revitalize our Core/Waterfront with sustainable businesses to provide income/local shopping and employment for our Town and residents.”

DONALD PATERSON - INCUMBENT Don and his family have been residents of Ladysmith since 1975. Don’s community involvement includes Kinsmen Club, Ladysmith Show and Shine, Festival of Lights, Ladysmith Days and Light Up to name only a few. During his time on Ladysmith Council he has been involved with the Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission, Protective Services, Municipal Services, Heritage Committee, as well as various other committees and has served as alternate representative to the CVRD. “As far as change I would really like to see ... more jobs.”

CVRD Area G Director Candidates MEL DOREY - Incumbent During his previous three terms Mel feels his actions have been guided by the terms and spirit of the Official Community Plan and, while much has been accomplished, he feels much still needs to be done. He has called upon and organized volunteers to enhance numerous trails and get community assent to upgrade the water system. He feels that they saved many thousands of dollars for the taxpayers.

“If I had the power to change one thing it would be to upgrade the roads in Saltair which are presently under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transportation.”

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TOM HOKIN Tom has served three terms as electoral director SQCRD, three terms trustee SD50, with four years chair/vice-chair and seven years as a director on board of predecessor of Northern Health trustee on Q.C. Hospital board. He is a former B.C. Ambulance paramedic, volunteer firefighter and 13 years as a small business owner.

“Ensuring Saltair retains a sustainable long term supply of high quality potable drinking water for present and future needs by preserving and defending Saltair’s water licence on Stocking Lake and, vigorously pursue acquisition of ownership of the watershed , possibly by a no-cost Crown Land swap with Couverdon with co-operation of Provincial Government.”

JOHN SHERRY A family man and former manager for an environmental services company, John understands both the environment and business, and with years as a director and president of not for profits, he feels he has the governance experience to be effective. John’s local charity, his “Turkey Drive and Adopt a Family” program, has provided gifts and turkey to over 2,000 locals struggling at Christmas. Website: johnsherry.ca Facebook: facebook.com/johncvrd “I would change representation. In changing representation, we can change many things that need changing; such as increasing accessibility and connectivity by getting the Trans Canada Trail from Chemainus to Ladysmith. This would open the door to not only additional recreational activity, but people entering the community to enjoy all we offer, including our unique small businesses and artisans. We could make it safer for pedestrians to walk the roads and cross the street. We could increase the tax base to manage required infrastructure upgrades.

CVRD Area H Director CVRD Area H Director Mary Marcotte continues to serve North Oyster/Diamond Area by acclamation.

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RDN AREA A Director Candidates ALEC MCPHERSON - INCUMBENT Alec’s community involvements include Chair, North Cedar Improvement, 2011, Past President of the Langley Community Music School, Secretary-Treasurer for the BC Judo Association, and Sport Chair, Western Canada Games in 1995.

He has been actively engaged in community and related issues throughout his adult life. As Incumbent Director EA ‘A’ Alec feels he offers proven leadership and experience in local government service.

“While there are many idealistic or profound statements one might strive for, in terms of local government, I would like to be able to supply “one stop shopping” to residents for answers to their concerns/issues. Anyone who has made attempt after attempt to get their issue dealt with only to be told, “Not our responsibility” would appreciate this.”

ROSMY JEAN LOUIS Rosmy has been a professor for 18 years, of which 10 are with Vancouver Island University where he is currently the Chair of Economics and instructor for the MBA/MScIB Program.

“I will work to alleviate the water problem in Cedar, and work with Cassidy and South Wellington to meet their expressed need for a community centre and a school, respectively.”

Email : jlrosmy@yahoo.ca For photos and more details visit www.take5.ca

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Infrared, gunpowdered, scent controlled, ghost riders of the purple sage, camo pants...

For those of you not already wearing camouflage clothing, Cabelas is the world’s foremost outfitter of hunting and fishing equipment. What’s more, they’ve taken the old Canadian Tire Store north of town, and tarted it up from a 6 to a 9, higher if imitation log cabin is your thing or you answer to the name Ersatz.

Cabelas is much more than a store. It’s Disneyland for people who like to kill things. A place where vegetarians should always walk in pairs, and never on a dark night. A spot where taxidermy is alive and well, where impressive displays of stuffed animals leap out at you from every corner, warning any vegans in the crowd, “to watch out Buddy, this could happen to you.”

But Cabelas is not just about killing; it’s also about eating. And for the Cabelan army that means sausage. No one takes meat grinders more seriously.

From a $40 hand grinder (Let’s call it the Field Model), thru an impressive array of electric models, and for that special occasion, say you should massacre a small herd of buffalo, I’m sure you could coax the V8 powered one off the back shelf.

And what’s the point of harvesting protein if you can’t look good doing it, and for that Cabelas has a huge selection of camouflage clothing. From head to foot, Cabelas has you covered, right down to a camo bra, which is always a good choice with the epidemic of man boobs we’re facing.

Like everything else these days, camo has gone high tech. Cabelas have fabrics that change pattern with the temperature, reflecting your need to dress for the different seasons. And even more exciting is scent control cloth-

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ing, or as Cabelas calls it, Scent Lok. In the woods, and back at the lodge, scent control clothing can provide tremendous advantage. With Scent Lok should a bear scare the crap out of you causing an accidental discharge in your hip waders, your buddies never need to know.

Equally as important as the clothing is the manly jargon that comes with it.

Feel comfortable in your Under Armour Infrared Scent Control Gunpowder Jacket. Walk proud in your (not making this up) Under Armour ColdGear Infared Scent Control Speed Freak pants, which when you think about it does sound better than Bear Made Me Go Poo in my Hip Wader pants.

(Curiously, in the store’s Northeast corner, turn right at the bullets, is a fudge machine. Is this where you’re sent if your speed freaks fit loose? Or is it just putting on a kinder, gentler face for any vegans who wander in by mistake thinking it might be a good place to shop for a Halloween costume.)

The truth is, camouflage clothing only makes animals laugh. They know from a very early age, that camo means one of two things. Either the guy is out to kill you, or he’s got a hot date.

In fact, when it comes to sneaking up on animals, an NHL uniform works better than even your top line Scent Loks.

Or so said a recent study which found 97% of the animals interviewed were more likely to approach an individual in a Vancouver Canucks jersey, than someone in full camo gear. Put yourself in the deer’s shoes, who would you rather be seated next to, Ryan Kesler or some fat guy dressed up like a stump?

Deer feel this way because, so far, there are no reported incidents of animals being shot by anyone wearing a full NHL uniform. True, one did get clubbed to death by a stick, but with Bertuzzi on the ice, that’s going to happen.

It’s all about vision. Animals have lots.

Humans don’t. Think about it, when was the last time you saw a deer wearing glasses, or hanging out at the optometrist’s waiting for bifocals? If a deer is in the waiting lounge, shifting through the backdated magazines-thinking, if it wasn’t for waiting rooms, would anyone read Good Housekeeping-rest assured he’s there for non-prescription sunglasses. Never prescription.

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You may think you’re undetectable sitting there on that skunk cabbage, but 1000 yards away, totally invisible because his camo gear isn’t near so gaudy, is a mule tail deer who turns to his mate and says, “Hey look, Bozo’s got a new button on his shirt.”

To demonstrate the ineffectiveness of camo gear, let’s conduct a little experiment. Take your dog, not the pedigreed bloodhound Toby who got addicted to the smell of asphalt before getting run over by the water truck, but Muttnik, who was produced when your dachshund Max liberated a step ladder, and talked the ditzy shepherd next door into an evening of prolonged enjoyment. As Bob next door said, it was the closest thing to Immaculate Conception this neighbourhood has ever seen. Anyway, place Muttnik inside, put on every piece of camo you own, and then hide in the back yard.

When you’re convinced you’re invisible, have your wife release the dog.

Try to hide your disappointment when the untrained Muttnik ignores your top-flight Cabelas’ outfit and makes a beeline right to you.

If Muttnik can spot you on his short legs, think of how easy it is for a deer, who are nothing more than dogs on stilts. Make that an intelligent dog on stilts.

It’s no secret deer are far more clever than the average homeowner, camouflaged or not. Deer are like magicians.

No matter how high your fence, how deep your moat, how sinister your traps, how mean your dog, how vindictive your wife, (Okay, got it or do you need more?) deer will always find a way into your garden. Just when you think they’re licked, you’ll walk outside with morning coffee in hand, only to discover. “Argh! The prized roses. They’re gone. Every last one.

This is the animal you intend to trick by dressing up like the Village People?

(An excellent red, Antinori Santa Christina, $16.99, can be found uncamouflaged, in the Italian section.)

- Delbert is the co-proprietor at Mahle House Restaurant in Cedar. Read more of his articles at Slightlycorkedandmore. wordpress.com

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TRIED and TESTED

Top 5 Vancouver Island Mountain Trails Over the past year, mountain biking has dominated our outdoor adventures as a family. Vancouver Island has no shortage of world class mountain biking trails to shred. Even with a mixed level of riding ability among the four of us, we are still able to hit the trails as a family.

Here is a brief overview of five of my favourite Vancouver Island trail systems, tried and tested by the entire OTBP crew.

For the full article and links to mountain biking resources/websites/maps for each area, check out my blog. getonthebeatenpath.blogspot.ca

Above: Doumont’s Fine China, a fast and fun flow track.

Centre: One of Cumberland’s many trail features.

Photos courtesy of Jill Collins

Cobble Hill – Located west off of the Trans-Canada Highway on Cobble Hill Road then right at Empress Ave. This is an excellent place for beginners or families to start mountain biking. A family can easily spend a whole day here.

Amenities include washrooms, picnic area, a beautiful bike park complete with dirt jumps, pump track and a bike washing station to get your bike sparkling clean again. If you can tear yourself away from the bike park, the trails up Cobble Hill are smooth, not a lot of rocks and roots and Liv, our seven year old mountain biker, could easily ride up and down most trails with a 24” wheel.

The entire trail system has good signage throughout complete with distances and difficult rating. Trails are cross country single and double track which are shared with hikers and horseback riders.

Hornby Island – Accessible by ferry service from Fanny Bay to Denman Island and then Hornby. Bike friendly Hornby Island has a variety of trails to suit every type of mountain bike rider.

Being able to bike to the trails from anywhere adds to the experience. There is a pump track for those wishing to practice their riding skills before heading to Mt. Geoffrey Park. The network of single track cross country trails on Mt. Geoffrey offer a variety of fast and flowy trails that will have you screaming like a school kid. Trails have plenty of signage, maps available at the local bike shop and description of trails complete with rating and features available online.

We were able to find trails that suited all

of our abilities and without duplicating routes. The peak of Mount Geoffrey and Summit Trail is hands down the best places for an “enscarfment” (food break at edge of cliff).

Mt. Tzouhalem (Mt. Zoo) – Located at the end of Kaspa Road in Duncan. This is the place to go for hours of uninterrupted riding, rarely hitting the same trail twice. Mt. Zoo has a wide variety of trails; logging road, double track, slow technical single track and flowy fast swoopy trails. Ben, my nine year old fearless rider, can carve trails like ‘Double D’ like no one’s business. A bit of a grunt from the parking lot to the top but after the first few times, you get the hang of it. If hitting jumps more your style, there are built jumps and ramps to test your limits. With no creeks or large bodies of water on the mountain, conditions throughout the winter are appealing. Less mud and wet terrain to deal with but with winter comes less daylight.

No problem. Strap on some lights and ride the trails after work or supper. Most trails are marked, rated and maps available online. What is unique about Mt. Zoo is a cool app that lets you see where you are on the map/mountain in real time, using your SmartPhones’ built in GPS. Handy for night riding.

Doumont – Located in Nanaimo west off of the Trans Canada highway on Jingle Pot Road (the one between Northfield and Aulds Roads) then right on Biggs Road and follow past moto-cross track. Here you can find downhill and freeride type trails with some pretty

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crazy jumps, ramps, and log rides. Still plenty of cross country and we found most trails suited an intermediate rider, even though we all managed to make it down. To avoid wasting time or for a better first time experience, ride the trails with someone who knows the area and can string together some runs. The newest trail to hit Doumont, Fine China, is the first provincially approved mountain bike trail. The 1200 m. trail is described as a pump track or flow track, and let me tell you, it is a few minutes of pure fun! If my kids had their way, we would ride Doumont every day, as would many adult friends I know. Just be forewarned, in and around the Doumont trail network, biosolids are applied to VIU’s woodlot under the Forest Fertilization Program, so be sure to keep your mouth closed when riding.

Cumberland – Small village west of Courtenay and Comox.

When you hit the village, you pretty much have reached the trailhead. Cumberland has an outdoor enthusiast feel to it and is my favourite place to ride. You could call it the epicentre to all things mountain biking. Everything from trail building, purchasing land to add to the community forest, and supporting local business, the people and riders of Cumberland make it special. From town you can ride along the streets, on flat walking trails, or climb up the main logging road surrounding the community forest for some light technical and downhill riding.

Cumberland is a popular riding destination but you can pedal for hours without meeting another rider. The trail builders of Cumberland create trails like nothing you have ever seen and the craftsmanship of the ramps, berms, jumps and yes, even a teeter totter, are works of art. Most of the trails have signage and the phone friendly or print out map will not fail you.

What I love best is that these five trail systems are only a snippet of what is out there for mountain bike riders on Vancouver Island. I can’t wait to get the OTBP crew out again and tear up more trails. Happy riding.

Jill Collins is an Outdoor Family Blogger and proud KEEN Canada Ambassador. Follow the adventures of Jill and her family Blog On the Beaten Path Facebook On the Beaten Path, Twitter @Onthebeatenpath Instagram @Getonthebeatenpath

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Roughskin Newt Three dead hunters. No signs of injury.

Nothing stolen. A newt in a coffee pot....

These are the elements which spurred a biologist to question the toxicity of Roughskin newts. The result was the finding that these little creatures are the deadliest known organisms in North America.

The toxin (tetrodotoxin) is 10,000 times deadlier than cyanide. It locks onto sodium channels on the surface of neurons blocking signals in the nervous system and leading to a quick death.

Damp autumn days are a good chance to observe this most poisonous of organisms in our region. Roughskin newts have a rough texture. The colouration ranges from light brown to black on the

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back with a yellow to orange underside.

At maturity they are 4-6 inches in length.

Roughskin newts (especially females) migrate from ponds, lakes and wetlands to terrestrial habitats after breeding in the spring. As winter approaches, they move again seeking refuge under logs and woody debris where temperature and moisture conditions remain relatively uniform. These two periods when they are on the move is the easiest time to locate them because they cross roads and are more visible. Some areas are known for these migrations. A kilometer long stretch

by Yellow Point Lodge on Yellow Point Road is a good place to start. (Seems to me this would be a good place to put up a newt crossing sign. When driving this stretch of road I keep an eye out for them and swerve to avoid them. I’ve been looking for an “I brake for newts” bumper sticker, but have yet to find one.)

Many male Roughskin newts on Vancouver Island remain aquatic throughout the year. The reason for this is not known.

They spend most of their time on the bottom of the lake, but come up for air.

Adult and larval newts eat a varied diet including zooplankton, insects, small worms and amphibian eggs. This ability to eat the smallest of creatures makes them a key component of food webs.

Because newts are poisonous most creatures avoid them and this gives newts the advantage of hunting during the day as well as at night. The poison in newts is the same as that in puffer fish. Garter snakes in Roughskin newt territories have evolved mechanisms which make it

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possible for them to eat newts. Newts in different populations have different levels of toxins and Garter snakes need to assess the level of toxin they can ingest.

If the newt is too toxic a snake will reject it after attempting to eat it.

Newts pass this toxicity on to their eggs as well, which results in lower predation because aquatic larvae like dragonflies avoid them. But again as with the snakes there is another co-evolutionary relationship in the works. Caddisfly larvae from newt habitats eat newt eggs, but those from other areas avoid them.

It is possible that those that can eat newt eggs may then be able to harbour the toxin in their tissues and make them less likely to be predated upon.

When threatened on land a Roughskin newt arches its head to reveal the bright orange to advertise its toxicity. But is advertising always honest? Some individuals (or populations) produce the toxin in lower concentration. Toxin production is a big metabolic expense and if enough of the population is giving a true signal and some individuals “fake” high concentrations of toxins but actually have a lower concentration those individuals will have a survival advantage.

As always in nature there is more complexity than meets the eye. I think the ecologist J.B.S. Haldane put it well – “nature is not only more complex than we think, it is more complex than we can think.” And full of mystery and wonder.

Jay Rastogi is a naturalist, horticulturalist and educator living in Yellow Point. ecoforestry@gmail.com

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Election Acclamation: I would like to thank all the residents and property owners of Area H for allowing me another opportunity to serve as your elected representative for North Oyster/Diamond. I can honestly say that it is a privilege and an honour to represent your interests at the Regional District Board. I look forward to serving you in the coming term.

Due to ongoing family and business commitments my long serving Alternate Director, Rob Waters, has chosen to step

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aside. I want to thank Rob for his service and dedication to this Community.

He has been a sounding board and the knowledge that he brought to the table has proven to be invaluable. Thank you, Rob, for your many years of service.

At this time, I am pleased to announce that Kelly Daniels has agreed to act as the North Oyster/Diamond Alternate Director. As former Chief Administrative Officer for both the Regional District of Nanaimo and the Capital Regional District, Kelly has a wealth of knowledge in the Local Government field. I look forward to working with Kelly in representing you during this new term. Thank you, Kelly, for taking on this new and challenging position.

Cowchan Sportsplex Referendum: Although there is no election for Area H Director, there is a reason to keep the voting dates on your calendar. After many years of discussion, the CVRD Electoral Areas have agreed to conduct a public referendum on long term funding for the privately owned Cowichan Sportsplex. This referendum question

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is on the ballot during the November 15, 2014 Local Government elections.

There are several opportunities for you participate in the democratic process. In previous issues, I have expressed concerns about this proposed funding. No matter your position on this proposal, I urge you to participate in the democratic process, and mark an “X” on the ballot.

School Board elections are also on the ballot.

For those unable to vote on general voting day, advance polling is open on November 5 and November 12 from 8 am to 8pm at the Island Savings Centre, 2687 James Street, Duncan, BC – formerly the Cowichan Community Centre, where the big hockey stick is displayed.

General Voting Day in British Columbia is Saturday, November 15 from 8am to 8pm; our local election polling station is located at the North Oyster Elementary School, 13470 Cedar Road.

For information on voter qualifications and other voting opportunities, please contact Legislative Services at this toll free number 1-800-665-3955 or check out the CVRD website.

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“A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.” - Lao Tzu

The catalysts among us There’s this woman who lives up Island, who’s been labouring away for the good of us all, in an ecologically sensible way, for most of her life. So we sent her our 2014 J&L Environment Award certificate, half-way Delores Broten suitable for framing, as a way to say her efforts are noticed. And we threw in our standard giftie of a wee jackknife, so she’s prepared for whatever life sends her way.

We figure she’ll get a kick out of having someone recognize her for the time

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and energy she’s given for the greater good. A pat on the back, a hearty and sincere expression of appreciation goes a long way to renewing people’s spirit and determination. And that’s what we think the world needs.

Folks’, who take on a cause for their community, write a letter, speak up, do not often wish to don the weight and burden such initiative demands. They often do it because it smacks them in the face, or hits them where they live. Sometimes it offends their sense of what’s right, or should be. And on the rare occasion, when society needs a champion, someone who will not turn a blind eye to an issue or injustice will step up.

We need people in our communities, towns and cities, who will help our society address the questions and concerns that the bullies and predators of the world would rather see forgotten. We need all those fine words in the UN Declaration of Human Rights to be interpreted and applied to the places where we live and the decisions being made on our behalf. We need to be reminded when we’re too tired or too busy, that democracy requires vigilance - won’t work unless people stand up for themselves and defend the rights and liberties so many have fought and died for.

And we need to be chivvied, and chided, and entreated, and invited to dance if we’re to give a bit of our time or hardearned money to the cause - to lend support and say we’re with those who speak up for us, and our children’s rights, and the children still to come.

To imagine we can ignore the big bad wolves knocking at the door, deny the whirling dervish of politics and power or somehow hide away from all the difficulties and challenges of life, is really

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just a way to lie to ourselves. It’s hoping someone else will do the heavy lifting for us.

Honestly, if we admit it, deep down we know there are problems in the way our system works, disparities, injustices and downright dirty deals happening every day. And even if all our instincts were right on, and our human failings found the perfect solutions and the practical answers that could resolve all our problems, then, for sure, Murphy’s Law would step in and smite us for our smuggery. Right?

So we need folks who will meet the challenges head on, who will point out what needs to be done, and remind us incessantly when we’re too busy and don’t want to hear about yet another problem.

We need those who will muster up our strength and resources, push us to work together and resolve the thorny issues, and face the major calamities and devastatingly world-shattering catastrophes that are coming down the tracks straight at us.

For we are a resourceful species, and we really only know our true strength when we’re tested. And we can solve things when we put our minds to it. And they, those pushy folk, know that.

But us regular folk sometimes need a push, a reminder and a messenger who will call upon the best in us and ask, politely yet firmly, that we not take things lying down. We need our home-grown heroes and community activists, nationbuilders and world shakers alike, if we are to meet our goals and hopes and dreams of a humanity more than the sum of us all.

We have a greater calling, beyond our everyday lives, and we need leaders to

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remind us of how we might fulfil our destiny, as a people, and with our families and neighbourhoods. Step by step we will find ways to overcome our obstacles and challenges - so long as we have individuals willing to put themselves on the line, and their personal lives on hold while they help us all out.

And so, for the last 30 or so years we’ve printed off our annual J&L Environment Award, and mailed it if off to some deserving soul we know or have heard of. We figure the universe will be a little better off, and the world just that much a better place the more active community leaders there are out there.

And all we’re really saying is keep up the good work, and thanks!

Laurie Gourlay and Jackie Moad have worked with environmental, social justice, women’s and community groups for thirty-odd years, farm 20 acres organically, and seek local solutions to global challenges with leaders everywhere!

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HOME & YARD

FOR SALE YOUTH-SIZED ACOUSTIC GUITAR w/case $75.

CASIO ELECTRIC KEYBOARD, $50. 250-2459165 or 250-756-8892.

ELECTRONIC GOLF CART Includes battery and remote. $700. Call Ben 250-245-4271.

DEWALT TOOLS Orbital sander $45, Jigsaw $65, 10” Chopsaw with 2 extra blades $225. Makita D handle router with extra bits $165. Electric tile cutter $ 50. Degas acoustic guitar ser#2 with original case $300. 250-245-9818 FOR RENT SPACIOUS COTTAGE on acreage. Two stories, balcony, close to Nanaimo Airport. Suitable for single person only. Available partially furnished.

No partiers, no smokers, pets ok. Includes all utilities, Sat. TV and Wifi, $700. Ref req. Available Jan. 1. 250-245-9165 or email marinasacht@ yahoo.ca OFFICE SPACES Downtown Ladysmith, modern, reasonable rent or lease. 250-245-3395 WANTED VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! The Ladysmith Maritime Society is a vibrant community group .

Contact admin@lmsmarina.ca BUSINESS HOME BASED BUSINESS Got 10-15 hours a week to make productive? Learn to earn an income at your computer! Full training and support provided. www.FinallyFreedom4You.com EVERGREEN BOOKKEEPING Accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, CRA remittances. Sole proprietors, small business and corporate. Your office or mine. Over 25yrs experience. 250-616-2301

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TAKE 5’s SPECIAL EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHY - weddings, family portraits, corporate, children, pets, birthdays. marinasacht@yahoo.ca or call 250-245-9165 for portfolio.

EDUCATION SENSE OF PLACE Bethel (Lic#CDEN-97JQWB) and North Oyster (Lic#KRIS-9MPPYV) have Full day kids camps and/or Before and After School nature programming, arts/crafts, hiking, building, music, games etc! Full-time, part-time and drop-in spots www.senseofplaceyp.com (B)250-7972316 (NO)250-667-1222 HEALTH & BEAUTY IISAGENIX 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; on-going class Wednesdays. Both classes 10am -12 noon, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 McMillan Road. $20/mo. Sara 250-2451466 or www.nanaimotaichi.org ZIJA DISTRIBUTOR – 100% Natural, Boosts Energy, Mental Clarity, Promotes Healthy Circulation, Provides Anti-Inflammatory Support, Nourishes Immune System, “Encourages” Your Metabolism, Promotes Healthy Digestion, Convenient and Delicious! www.trishdarryl. myzija.com Trish and Darryl Baird, 250-713-5468

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 OVERCOAT PAINTING – Professional – Reliable – Reasonable. Operating 8 years in Ladysmith.

No job to small. Will do minor painting repairs.

Special senior rates. Call Heather McIntosh for a free estimate. 250-619-3718 INTERIOR PAINTING - Refresh your walls... and your spirits! Careful, respectful work. Attention to detail. Help with colour choice. No job too small.

Reasonable rates. Kari 250-245-2751 ISLAND KING RENOS LTD. - Kitchen-BathTile-Backsplash-Countertops-Flooring-DrywallPaint-Siding-Fences-Decks INTERIOR and EXTERIOR. Quote by JOB not by the HOUR. www.islandkingrenos.com 250-924-4924 QUALITY RENOVATIONS Big or small. 25 yrs exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate call Lars. 250-616-1800 MINI EXCAVATOR for lease or rent by day, week or month Reasonable rates. 250-246-6624 HOUSE CLEANING. Experienced Cheerful help in keeping your house clean. I also do Window Washing and Yard Work. Call David at 250-7223599.

WEEKLY OR BI-MONTHLY CLEANING for houses and offices, experienced, reliable and attention to detail. $20 per hour. References available.

Ladysmith, Chemainus and Crofton. 250-2464938 Jamie or Ingrid.

SASSA’S HOME AND GARDEN CARE. No job too big or small. Affordable honest work. Duo team. Cleaning, Gardening Painting, and Gutter Cleaning. Outside and inside your home or business. 250-924-4735 or 250-218-4735.

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NOV 2014

LADYBUG’S MEW…for Meticulous Garden Care. Call 250-713-9682 for a free quote or visit from “Farmer Doug”, the hand weeding and light pruning specialist.

OLD FASHIONED EVERGREEN GARLANDS, WREATHS AND SWAGS, local, sustainable practice. Options of lights, installation, take down and recycle by our TEAM. Course Design Available. 1 / 250 668-9651. See for details. http://www.cleangreengrill.com/old-fashionedgreens.html NEED A MARKETING REVIEW? Book a free consultation nd find out what we can do within your budget. TAKE 5 at 250-245-7015 PETS KITTY KORNERS CAT HOTEL - Purrsonalized Quality Kitty Care. Daily health checks, experienced with special needs kitties.

Reasonable rates. Available 24/7. 2 km north of Nanaimo Airport. Take a virtual tour www. kittykorners.com 250-740-KATS (5287) HOME BUDDIES - PET & HOUSE CARE since 1994. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. Professional, kind-hearted, experienced and reliable. Pet First Aid and CPR Certified. Certified Security Professional, Animal Care Aide certified, VIU. For loving care and security, Peggy Wildsmith- 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 LYNN’S SENIORS CARE HOME High Quality Personalized Care. Warm caring environment, Great food and snacks, Family events, Couples and Pets welcomed, Ocean views, Gardens.

North of Ladysmith. 250-245-3391 www. lynnsseniorcare.com SENIOR HELPER Mature RCA will assist with bathing, meals, medications, light housework, respite. Very caring, honest, reliable and fun, excellent references. 250-924-7084 TAKE 5 CLASSIFIEDS WORK! Get them working for you. Don’t mniss the big Dec/Jan two month issue of TAKE 5. Call for info 250-245-7015 or submit directly at www.take5.ca

TAKE 5

Is Ladysmith missing out on tourism dollars?

“Visitors to the Vancouver Island region injected nearly $2.2 billion - 17% of the provincial total - into the local economy. This huge economic footprint puts tourism first or second on the list of top economic drivers in every community in the region. Fostering a strong economy is the single most important thing government can do to support families and sustain communities... The sector’s value is recognized by communities and residents. A recent Tourism Vancouver Island survey showed 90 % of residents think tourism is important or very important to their community. Two-thirds (63%) said tourism will be the largest contributor of new jobs and economic activity in their community over the next decade. That compares with jus 9% who cited high-tech and five % who said forestry,” - Tourism Vancouver Island.

So what is Ladysmith doing to tap into this $2.2 billion dollar market? It appears very little. In this year’s budget it shows the Town is spending only $21,406 on Tourism. This is a decrease of 27.5% from the pathetic amount the year before. Most of this money is earmarked tourism within the CVRD, and not specifically for Ladysmith. What effect has this had on tourist visits to Ladysmith? It is hard to say, but according to statistics from the Ladysmith Visitors Centre run by the Chamber of Commerce the total of number of parties visiting the centre is down by 3.8% in the first quarter, up by only 0.5% in the second and during the key months of July, August and September it was down by a whopping 16.1%, with the largest decease of 23.35% in the month of August.

About seven or so years ago the town had a Tourism Advisory Committee. It was composed of dedicated individuals who were will to put forth the time and

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effort to develop marketing strategies and promotion to enhance the growth of tourism here in Ladysmith, but it was allowed by the Town to die on the vine, discourage those willing volunteers. The Town similarly had an Economic Development Commission that was working hard to improve our local economy.

They to recognized the value and importance of tourism and were working to incorporate local tourism into a long term economic plan. Like the Tourism Committee is was allowed by the Town, to die on the vine. Today there is little to show for the efforts of both these groups.

Not all is doom and gloom. There are groups of individuals who are working on local initiatives to promote tourism such as TAKE 5’s annual “Be A Home Town Tourist” campaign.” The Ladysmith Maritime Society has made great strides in promoting marine tourism. The number of boat nights spent by boaters from both Canada and the States is way up, and it has had a significant effect on our local economy by injecting hundreds of thousands of dollars into the town.

Rod Smith, manager of LMS says boat visits were up 30% from last year, bringing the number of visits to 1600 for the season. He is very pleased and anticipates further growth next year.

What is the Town doing to make Ladysmith more appealing? Any visitor who walks along First Avenue and is greeted by the vast number of empty store fronts and closed up hotels. They must feel that the Town is a depressed area.

Many organizations like the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce, the Ladysmith Downtown Business Association, and the Ladysmith Historical Society are trying to make the Town a place people will want to visit, but it is sad to see what is happening to our downtown.

It’s not that we don’t have great mar-

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keting opportunities. Remember when the Town won the Communities in Bloom competition for communities our size in BC, and then a year later we won for being the best in Canada, when Harrowsmith Magazine named Ladysmith as one of the 10 prettiest communities in Canada? What happened, why was this marketing advantage allowed to die? Over the past 15 years or so we had many very interesting events such as PumpkinFest, World Strongman competitions, and a world class logger sports show. All of these thing could have been expanded into significant tourist events.

Events that would draw many visitors and their dollars.

It’s not that we don’t have events, people or business that lend themselves to tourism. With support and help we can capture some to those tourist dollars, and in turn simulate our economy, much like the Festival of Lights does, but it needs leadership and a commitment by the administration and Council of our Town.

At least that as I see it.

Follow Rob Johnson on his As We See It group on Facebook.

TAKE 5

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