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Letters Community support for Shots for Kids On behalf of JDRF, Cottonwood Golf Course and my family, I wish to personally thank you for your contributions, time and support at this year’s 14th Annual Shots for Kids Golf Tournament. As with any event, there are always some obstacles and challenges faced in putting something like this together, and the weather just added an extra twist this year. But we persevered and still enjoyed a great day of golf, food and laughs — and it couldn’t have been so without our Hole Sponsors, Charity Donators and, of course, everyone who came out to play! With your help, we raised just under $20,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, with a few donations still coming in. Type 1 Diabetes is a debilitating disease that affects more than 300,000 Canadians, and with our help, we can create awareness on our way to the final goal of ending this terrible disease. Thanks again to all our guests, sponsors and donators for this year’s event! Keep an eye out for information on the 15th An-
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nual Shots for Kids Event in 2018. We will send out information in the fall for the event! - Trent Kaese
To: Neighbors in the vicinity of 900 Russell Road On May 1, Town of Ladysmith delivered a letter from Mayor Aaron Stone notifying residents of the intention to sell property that the Town had acquired and designated for park development. This property was purchased in 2003. Later, when Ballou Place was being developed, town planner Bruce Anderson indicated that the residents of Ballou Place would have park access to the 900 Russell Road park property. The Mayor’s letter of May 1 explains, by way of attempted justiďŹ cation, that the developed sports complex at Forrest Field is considered to serve the purpose of this property. Forrest Field is approximately seven kilometres away, in north Ladysmith, and by no means meets the park requirements of south Ladysmith. The concern is that the Town is making development decisions that ignores the step of consultation with local residents and/or does not take into consideration its previous park plans and commitments to the residents of Ladysmith. The notice that Mayor Stone had delivered May 1 was followed immediately by for sale signs for the property at 900 Russell Road. With all new residential developments that have occurred in south Ladysmith since 2010, there has been no consideration
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for parks within the developments themselves. It is likely the assignment of the parkland at 900 Russell Road was the reason for this omission. Where are children expected to play? We have applied for delegation status for the June 5, 7:00 p.m., council meeting to voice these and any other concerns relating to the lack of community consultation in community development. We would encourage you to attend and have your voices heard. - Richard Gunn
Main Street Yarn A huge thank you to Anne at Main Street Yarn for ďŹ xing my antique crocheted bedspread! Made by my grandmother in The Netherlands 40 years ago, this intricate work needed a lot of repair. Anne had the skills and patience to bring the bedspread back to its full glory. Many thanks to Anne and Main Street Yarn. - C. Geck Letters to the Editor are welcome but may be edited for space, clarity or legality. This is an open forum and opinions expressed here do not necessarily represent those of TAKE 5 or its affiliates. email: editor@take5.ca, take5.ca, or PO Box 59, Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A1
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Here come the pirates! Get ready for the annual Ladysmith Kids Pirates Day hosted by the Ladysmith Maritime Society. Bring the family down to the Ladysmith Community Marina for a great day on Saturday, June 3, 2017 from 10am to 4pm. Watch for Captain Jack and Miss Scarlett, the annual Kinsmen Bullhead Derby, the Ladysmith Rotary food tent, bouncy castle, face painting, petting zoo and much more. While there visit the floating museum and check out their new display or catch a harbour boat tour. There’s lots to do for everyone and it’s all free thanks to the friendly LMS members and volunteers.
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You will find plenty of free parking on Oyster Bay Drive. Kicking off the Pirates Day will be “Feast of the Pirates” on June 2 – be prepared to make merry on your best pirate garb. This event is also the start of the popular Dine on the Docks series held
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every other Friday throughout the summer at the marina. Call them for tickets as this is a popular event that is likely to sell out. For details call 250245-1146 or lmsmarina.ca Photos: Gerry Beltgens & Cindy Damphousse
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Banners flying high Renowned Coast Salish artist John Marston and Ladysmith Secondary Students Eve Lovett and Kendra Forster’s banners are flying high side by side in downtown Ladysmith as part of the Canada 150 celebrations. And it feels pretty good to the grade 9 students who are in awe that their design is hanging next to a renowned artist. Inspiration came for the design back in October during art class. “We had the original Canada 150 logo with the 13 pieces representing the provinces, above and below represent the indigenous people. “It felt really good like we’ve accomplished something,” says Forster. “We knew our banner would go up but we didn’t know it would be everywhere.” The two banners represent the strong
Nanaimo-Ladysmith School Board Chair Steve Rae, Acting Superintendent Scott Saywell, Stz’uminus First Nation’s Chief John Elliott, Coast Salish artist and master carver John Marston with banner he designed. Ladysmith Secondary students Kendra Forster and Eve Lovett with their Canada 150 banner, school principal Margaret Olsen, Ladysmith Mayor Aaron Stone at the unveiling of Ladysmith’s Canada 150 banners. Photo: Marina Sacht
working relationship that our community has with our neighbour Stz’uminus. “We wanted to find something that was very noticeable not only to our citizens but visitors to our community.” said Stz’uminus Ladysmith Canada 150 Committee co-chair Duck Patterson. “We have a new path for our next generation,” said Marston who has been playing a key role in bringing indigenous art and tradition to local schools. “It’s another step towards creating positive conversation, positive outcomes.” The eagle in Marston’s design represents our strength to work with one another and to work towards a better future, the salmon represents our connection to our natural world, he said. Limited editions of Marston’s designs are available at the Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery.
Beach Park. The public is invited to come down and enjoy a day of food, games and traditions. This fun family event features war canoe races and traditional slahal (bone game) as well as great
Get Ready for Aborignal Day Stz’uminus First Nation Aboriginal Day and Ladysmith 150 years of Confederation Celebration takes place on Wednesday, June 21, 2017 at Transfer
Stz’uminus First Nation Aboriginal Day Celebration takes place on June 21, 2017 at Transfer Beach Park Photo: Amos Harris.
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food and entertainment. The day starts with the Opening and Welcome 10am, Stz’uminus Anthem/Flag Song 10:30-11pm, Story of Creation 11am-12. Join in for lunch from 12-1pm - free hot dogs, hamburgers, seafood platter by donation. The traditional game presentation 1pm–2pm, War Canoe Races 2-3pm and Closing Prayer Song 2-3 pm. Started in 1996, National Aboriginal Day takes place annually to celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada. This year’s theme is for Stz’uminus First Nation is Pre 150 - Sharing the knowledge of Traditional Welcome. Enjoy traditional prayer, song and dance, and a war canoe demonstration highlighting the traditional way disputes were settled. In order to make your day more enjoyable bring your lawn chairs and blankets, sunscreen and water.
ates an opportunity for the LRCA to support the community while creating a social enterprise for the future of our organization,” says LRCA executive director, Shannon Wilson. “We commend Ladysmith Resource Centre Association and look forward to the care and support they will bring to those in need in Ladysmith,” says Bishop Logan McMenamie.
Longest Day Of Play
New Food Truck Concession at Transfer Beach
The LRCA, LaFF, the Boys and Girls Club and Town of Ladysmith Parks, Recreation and Culture are putting together a free evening of fun. Plan on coming down for games, food and fun for the entire family. Wednesday, June 21, 2017, 5pm to 7pm in Market Lane and Spirit Square.
Ladysmith foodies and Transfer Beach visitors will have a variety of new meal options with the launch of a new Food Truck Concession Service at Transfer Beach Park. Operating daily from 11am to 7pm, a variety of food trucks will provide a wide assortment of menu items. Administered by the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Town of Ladysmith “the food trucks will appeal to locals and visitors alike, offering something for everyone,” said Mayor Aaron Stone.For a schedule of Food Trucks or for more information go to ladysmithcofc.com or call 250-245-2112.
New Life For Church Site In April 2016, the parish of St John the Evangelist in Ladysmith voted 81% in favour of disestablishing, or, terminating the legal entity of the parish because of lack of funds and an aging membership. Shortly after closure the diocese was approached by a potential buyer for the property at 314 Buller Street in Ladysmith and on April 28 the sale to Ladysmith Resource Centre Association (LRCA) was finalized. LRCA plans to redevelop the site as 30-40 units of affordable housing, dedicated to seniors, adults with developmental disabilities and individuals who struggle in the competitive rental market. “This is such an exciting time and this purchase cre-
Running Of The Balls What could be more fun than watching a dump truck releasing hundreds of coloured balls down High Street? One of them could be yours! Support the LRCA at the 2nd Annual Running of the Balls on Saturday, June 24 at 12:30 pm at High Street and First Avenue. Tickets $5 per ball. First prize is $500, second prize is $300 and third prize is $100. Tickets are limited, so don’t wait! Buy yours at the Ladysmith Resources Centre, 630 Second Avenue.
Strawberry Tea Time St Philips Anglican Church in Cedar is holding their annual Strawberry Tea, on Saturday, June 10, 2017 from 2-4 pm. There will be a bake table, and a plant sale as well as delicious strawberry shortcake. This event is a community favourite so come early and bring your friends and family. Tickets are $7 for adults and $3 for children, available at the door, from pa-
Funds to Charities from the Knights of Columbus Council /BC Gaming Commission
Paddlers clean up Ladysmith’s shoreline got a little cleaner after 16 members of the Nanaimo Paddlers teamed up with volunteers from Ladysmith Maritime Society. The group does an annual clean up and this year Ladysmith was chosen. “We focused primarily on the Woods Island and the coastline including Slack Point,” said Linda McPhie of the paddlers. Dan Lutz ran the work boat and by noon two truck loads of garbage had been gathered for the dump. Photo: Marina Sacht
On April 18, the local Knights of Columbus Council 4582 distributed funds received from the BC Gaming Commission to representatives from 10 local charities as shown in the picture. They were: Crossroads Pregnancy Crisis Centre, Disabled Sailing Association, Ladysmith Baseball Association, Ladysmith Boys & Girls Club, Ladysmith Family & Friends (LaFF), Ladysmith Festival of Lights, Ladysmith Food Bank, Ladysmith Secondary School, Ladysmith Resources Centre and St. Joseph’s School . (George Weiss, Financial Secretary, KofC #4582)
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The Royal Canadian Air Cadets 257 Parallel Squadron held their 2017 Annual Ceremonial Review with inspections, parade, displays and demonstrations on May 14. The Award Recipients Back row (l-r): Top Senior Cadet: Sgt. Jason Fisher, Top Junior Cadet: LAC Jacob Dean, Commanding Officer’s Award: WO2 Nathan Fuller, Most Improved Cadet and Sponsoring Committee Award: Cpl. Kaelan Griffen Front row (l-r): Best First Year Cadet: LAC Hannah Eck, Citizenship Award: Cpl. Samantha Barney, Marksmanship Award and Lord Strathcona Medal: Sgt. Hera Bucatan.
rishioners or by calling 250-722-2440 or 250-323-6965.
New Softball Tournament The Ladysmith Softball Association has won the bid to the host the U12C Regional Tournament. This exciting tournament will be played at Aggie Field and Centennial Park in Saltair on June 16-18. The Ladysmith team recently ďŹ nished second in the Cordova Bay tournament. Sixteen teams from the Island are expected to play. For more information: www.ladysmithsoftball.ca, U12C Regional Tournament link.
Natural Health Show Celebrate spring with the Natural Health Show in Nanaimo. With a lineup of speakers and close to 30 vendors the show is shaping up to be the premier natural health event in the mid-island. The show is a blend of natural health practitioners, herbal products and health supplements, Saturday, June 3, from 10am to 4 pm at Nanaimo District Senior Secondary School. Learn more at www. herbalcollective.ca
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One Act play festival in Cedar Yellow Point Drama Group is hosting “On the Fringe” One-Act Play Festival on June 2 and 3. You can expect wordplay, wit, lots of laughter, a touch of pathos and some surprises. “It’s a chance to enjoy some plays that are rarely seen,” says organizer Armando Dos Santos. “It’s kind of like theatre on the fringe.” Each night, three short plays will be presented, and in two of the three, the playwrights themselves are directing or acting. The festival is a celebration of theatre, with no adjudication. “Each night, the audience gets to participate by voting for the best play,” says Dos Santos, “and the winning play takes home a prize.” On Friday, June 2, writer Brian March directs “Rappaport Revisited,” in which two arch friends/enemies meet up for yet another duel of words. Local actor Ron Dale takes a role onstage in his first script “A Skiff of Golff.” After a lifetime of golfing, Dale’s septuagenarian hero must face up to his declining skills. However, no decline will be found in the voices of Pat Zogar’s compilation “FirstWave Feminism—Shaw’s Women.” In excerpts from Shaw’s plays, a chorus of female characters reveal his trademark wit, wisdom, malice and scorn. Saturday night, June 3, sees 14 actors from Courtenay’s Second Stage Players perform “Oh Nurse,” a rollicking comedy set in a pub and hospital. The laughs continue with Armando Dos Santos’s production of an old script, “Two Blind Men and a Donkey.” As its title suggests, the play is a farce—a short and sweet medieval parable. The final show features Nanaimo newcomer Laura Kelsey as both writer and performer. “Modern Banshee” is a musical drama about a downtrodden performer’s search for her true voice. Performances, 7:30 pm, June 2 and 3, 2017, at Cedar Community Hall. Doors open at 7 pm; refreshments available. Tickets: $15 each night, available at the door. Reservations: 250-722-2459.
YPDG’s One Act Festival
We Will Rock You Musical Whether you are a Queen fan or not Ladysmith Secondary School (LSS) performing arts annual musical “We will Rock You” promises to be a great time. Featuring music from Queen the British rock band that formed in 1970 and became one of the biggest stadium rock bands in the world, the show continues until June 3. Tickets are available in the office or at the door on show days. Tickets prices are $8 for students and $10 for adults. Another event not to be missed is the Community Feast & Fundraiser Q’Wulum kwushoo (Roast Pig) at LSS at June 9 at 6 pm, sponsored by Land & Language based program in partnership with the Ladysmith Rotary Club. Tickets available at the school, Master carver John Marston will be in attendance.
Old Love & Open House Ladysmith Little Theatre will be having an Open House on Sunday June 18 from 1-4pm as part of HomeTown Tourist Weekend. Meet some of board members, Artistic Director, actors, Props Manager, Technical Director and other volunteers who help run the Ladysmith Little Theatre. There will be refreshments and tours of the theatre throughout the three hour Open House. Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. Playing now until June 4 is Ladysmith Little Theatre’s comedy Old Love by Norm Foster. Old Love is a story of romance, courtship and relationships between older adults. Reservations 250924-0658 ladysmiththeatre.com
Rock Legends Get ready to rock with one of the most anticipated shows of the season! The Chemainus Theatre is filled with the
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melodies of the world’s greatest musical pioneers as “Rock Legends” takes centre stage June 2 through August 26. Conceived and directed by Alex Mustakas, Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment, “Rock Legends” revisits the discography that forever changed the landscape of modern music. “Rock Legends” is a sequel of sorts to the smashhit “Twist and Shout: The British Invasion,” which wowed sold-out audiences in 2015. Once again, the story harkens back to a simpler period in history, when families gathered around the television to watch the hottest acts of the day perform on The Ed Sullivan Show. This time around, popular television host Roy Solomon is signing-off the air after 20 years with The SBC Studio, and theatregoers become the live studio audience who are taken on a stroll down memory lane, while millions of television viewers look on from their living rooms. Mustakas endows each performer with a special moment to shine, Tickets can be purchased at the Chemainus Theatre, online at www.chemainustheatre.ca or by calling the Box Office at 250-2469820 or toll free at 1-800-565-7738. Over the past 25 years, The Festival has held thousands of professional performances, with now over 300 performances per year. They are one of BC’s largest performing arts organizations,
Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery June Exhibitions Beachcombing is like a day off — walking along a beautiful beach, looking down finding treasures, slipping a shell in your pocket, gazing at the ocean, and breathing in the salty air. The artist is challenged to capture a day “Beach Combing” the canvas, pottery, sculpture, or wood, and their works will be displayed at the Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery. The exhibition opening is June 3, at 7pm., with guest speaker, Carol Bretenbach. This event is sponsored by Sawmill Sales Direct. Also at the Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery, running from June 17 to 25, is the Art Show “CRE-8.” The opening reception is June 17, at 6pm-8pm. Come and meet eight diverse and unique artists. Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, from noon to 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 250245-0252.
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Ladysmith History Book Launch Owner of Salamander Books Frieda Douglas and author Brian D. Bornholom at the May 10 launch and signing of Early Music in Ladysmith, BC. Illustrated with historic photos this book gives valuable insight into Ladysmith’s earlist days when theatres -- amongst them an opera house -- were filled with international and local performers. After reading this delightful book you won’t see Ladysmith the same again. Price is $20 with all proceeds going to the Ladysmith & District Historical Society. Photo: Marina Sacht
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2017 Events & Participants Lace up your running shoes, grab your cameras and get ready to play tourist in the 7th Annual “Be A Hometown Tourist” Weekend, June 17 and 18, 2017. Spearheaded by TAKE 5, in partnership with many local groups, businesses and community-minded individuals, this campaign offers an opportunity for residents and visitors to discover the Central Vancouver Island communities of Ladysmith, Cassidy and Cedar. There will be free events, attractions, and activities as well as special offers from shops and services during that weekend. “Some of the activities planned are harbour boat tours, farm tours and two-for-one kayaking specials, golfing specials, a guided tour at the museum plus special menu items at local restaurants, just to name a few,” says Cindy Damphousse, who launched the campaign seven years ago. “Amazing things happen in small places,” she says. TAKE 5, which also publishes the “Explore Guide to Ladysmith, Cedar, Saltair & Chemainus,” believes we can help promote tourism by being our own town’s ambassadors. For an up-to-date schedule and more information on events and specials, call 250-245-7015 or the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce at 250-245-2112, www.take5.ca/hometowntourist.
Friday June 16 Noon, 10th Annual Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament. This is a great way to network with members of the business community and have some fun on the links. For info call 250-245-2112 or www.ladysmithcofc.com 11am to 4pm, Art Exhibitions at the Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery “Beach Combing”, 610 Oyster Bay Drive, Ladysmith www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 5pm, Dine on the Dock. The official kickoff for the weekend with a meet and greet. Come down to the Ladysmith Maritime Society Community Marina Welcome Centre and get to know your partners in the weekend, have dinner and see what’s happening at the dock! To reserve your tickets, call 250-245-1146 or www.lmsmarina.ca. Ladysmith Lightening will be hosting the U12C Regional Fastball Tournament - Aggie Field and Centennial Fields in Saltair, information www.ladysmithsoftball.ca
Saturday, June 17 Ladysmith Lightening will be hosting the U12C Regional Softball Tournament - Aggie Field and Centennial Fields in Saltair, information www.ladysmithsoftball.ca 7:30am to 6pm, 49th Café, 2 for 1 specialty coffee drinks and smoothies, 1020 First Ave. 250-245-3221. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special, www.facebook.com/the49thcafe 8am to 6pm, 2 for 1 workout at the Frank Jameson Commu-
Sealegs Kayaking, 2 for I single kayak one hour rental, at Transfer Beach. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. Watch the video on 2017 HTT Weekend at YouTube/take5newstv
nity Family Fitness Centre, 810 6th Ave., 250-245-6424. . Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. www.ladysmith.ca. 9am to 7pm Ladysmith Golf Course – Golf all day for $10. Free coffee and doughnuts. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special 9:30am to 3:30pm, Ladysmith Visitor Centre will be open to answer your questions. Call 250-245-2112 or visit www.ladysmithcofc.com 9:30am to 6pm, Sealegs Kayaking, 2 for I single kayak one hour rental, at Transfer Beach. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. Call 250-245-4096 or visit www.sealegskayaking.com 10am to 4pm, Ladysmith Museum 721 1st Ave. Open with a special display on Transfer Beach Park’s history.. 10:30am, Ladysmith Maritime Society, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., will be running Harbour Boat Tours. No reservations required. $15 / person and a maximum of $40 for a family of 4 or more. For more information call 250-245-0109 or visit www.lmsmarina.ca 11am, Art Exhibitions at the Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery “Cre-8”, 610 Oyster Bay Drive, Ladysmith www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 11am, Hazelwood Herb Farm, 3576 Adshead Rd., is offering tours of the farm. FREE tours, Tea & Tastings 12-3pm. June is Basil Fest, for more information, call 250-245-8007 or visit www.hazelwoodherbfarm.com. 11am until closing, The Fox & Hound, 11 High St., is offering 10% off the delicious 1 piece Fish & Chips with coupon found in the June issue of TAKE 5 Magazine. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. For information, call 250-924-1747 or visit www.foxandhoundsladysmith. com 11:30am to 1pm, FREE hot dogs and beverages to first 100 people Ladysmith Museum 721 1st Ave. 1pm, Join Rob Johnson for a talk and show on the history of Transfer Beach Park at the Ladysmith Museum 721 1st Ave. 2pm, Ladysmith Maritime Society, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., will be running Harbour Boat Tours. No reservations required. $15 / person and a maximum of $40 for a family of 4 or more. For
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more information call 250-245-0109 or visit www.lmsmarina. ca 3pm to 4:55pm, 2 for 1 Swim, Soak or Sauna at the Frank Jameson Aquatics Centre, 810 6th Ave. No reservation required. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. For more information call 250-245-6424 or visit www.ladysmith.ca 6pm to 7:25pm, 2 for 1 Swim, Soak or Sauna at the Frank Jameson Aquatics Centre, 810 6th Ave. No reservation required. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. For more information call 250-245-6424 or visit www.ladysmith.ca
Sunday, June 18 Ladysmith Lightening will be hosting the U12C Regional Softball Tournament - Aggie Field and Centennial Fields in Saltair, information www.ladysmithsoftball.ca 7:30am to 6pm, 49th Café, 2 for 1 specialty coffee drinks and smoothies, 1020 First Ave. 250-245-3221. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special, (www.facebook. com/the49thcafe) 8am to 6pm, 2 for 1 workout at the Frank Jameson Community Family Fitness Centre, 810 6th Ave., 250-245-6424. . Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. www.ladysmith.ca 9:30am to 6pm, Sealegs Kayaking, 2 for I single kayak one hour rental, at Transfer Beach. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. Call 250-245-4096 or visit www.sealegskayaking.com 10am to 2pm, Cedar Farmers’ Market. Enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, local products, organic fare and entertainment. The Market is in the parking lot at the Crow and Gate. FREE Event. www.cedarfarmersmarket.org 10am to 2pm, Ladysmith Museum 721 1st Ave. Open to answer all your questions on the history of Ladysmith. 10:3am, Ladysmith Maritime Society, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., will be running Harbour Boat Tours. No reservations required. $15 / person and a maximum of $40 for a family of 4 or more. For more information call 250-245-0109 or visit www.lmsmarina.ca 11am, Art Exhibitions at the Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery “Cre-8”, 610 Oyster Bay Drive, Ladysmith www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com
Free hotdogs, 11:30 - 1 pm, and a tour at Ladysmith Museum, Saturday June 17. Historic Talk and show by Rob Johnson on Transfer Beach Park history, 1 pm. Always entertaining. Free. Watch the video on YouTube/take5newstv for a tour of the museum with curator Bernardien Knol.
11am until closing, Hazelwood Herb Farm, 13576 Adshead Rd., is offering tours of the farm plus a plant sale and Tea & Tastings 12-3pm. June is Basil Fest, 250-245-8007 or visit www.hazelwoodherbfarm.com. 11am until closing, The Fox & Hound, 11 High St., is offering 10% off the delicious 1 piece Fish & Chips with coupon found in the June issue of TAKE 5 Magazine. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. For information, call 250-924-1747 or visit www.foxandhoundsladysmith. com noon to 4 pm, Ladysmith Museum open come in and walk through the history of the area. 721 1st Ave. 250-245-0423 1pm to 4pm, the Ladysmith Little Theatre will be having an Open House to showcase our community theatre. People can meet some of board members, our Artistic Director, some actors, Props Manager, Technical Director and other volunteers who help run the Ladysmith Little Theatre. There will be refreshments and tours of the theatre throughout the 3 hour Open House. Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 2pm, Ladysmith Maritime Society, 610 Oyster Bay Rd., will be running Harbour Boat Tours. No reservations required. $15
Ladysmith Golf Club – Golf all day for $10. Free coffee and doughnuts. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. Saturday June 17 from 9am-7pm Watch video on the Ladysmith Golf Club on YouTube/take5newstv
/ person and a maximum of $40 for a family of 4 or more. For more information call 250-245-0109 or visit lmsmarina.ca 3pm to 4:55pm, 2 for 1 Swim, Soak or Sauna at the Frank Jameson Aquatics Centre, 810 6th Ave. No reservation required. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. For more information call 250-245-6424 or visit www.ladysmith.ca 6pm to 7:25pm, 2 for 1 Swim, Soak or Sauna at the Frank Jameson Aquatics Centre, 810 6th Ave. No reservation required. Be sure to ask for the “Be a Hometown Tourist” Weekend special. For more information call 250-245-6424 or visit www.ladysmith.ca Rain or Shine our area has so many awesome things to do, during the Be a Hometown Tourist Weekend. See ads in this section, or visit us at www.take5.ca/hometowntourist
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Steele Place Home In 2003, Greg and Heidi Bianchini saw the potential in Ladysmith and moved their lives and business, GNB Builders, from Victoria. Ladysmith offered the small town feel they wanted for their future family, along with affordable properties, close proximity to the bigger centers, airport, ferry and no traffic, to name a few features. In 2007, GNB Builders bought two lots on Steele Place in the Seascape development, with thoughts of building two spec homes or moving their family closer to town. Two children later, they decided they would stay in Aquila Estates and build their forever home. Since moving to Ladysmith, GNB Builders has built a reputation for quality custom-built green homes. The company has primarily focused on custom homes, along with exclusively building for the Gales Development since 2014. In 2009,
GNB Builders built a custom home on one of the lots on Steele Place that offered a spectacular harbour view. Last year, the Bianchinis saw the home market strengthen, so they decided to build a spec home on their remaining Steele Place lot. “Building this home without a client
gave us the opportunity to use some of our stock items as well as gave us the ability to be more creative,” says Greg. When GNB Builders builds a custom home, they pride themselves in developing the client’s vision and bringing it into reality. The challenges on this project were the irregular shape of the lot and the weather. The lot is a large pie-shaped wedge topped off with a view. “Stock plans could not be used on this project as nothing would fit properly that would take in the view and have the features we think are important,” says Greg. “The snow came at the exact worse time as we were trying to sheet and shingle the roof. This caused a delay in getting to lockup. If there was a bonus, the temperatures were so cold that the building stayed relatively dry.” “We were very pleased how the home
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turned out and feel the home’s layout suits many families, such as retirees, families with small kids and young family needing an income helper. From our experience, many semi-retired couples are moving to our area and are looking for a home they can entertain and have family visit. They want a home that is easy to maintain, has a private area for the master bedroom and a guest suite with its own bathroom and lots of storage. At least 50 per cent of the homes we build include an area for sewing or crafts, ” said Heidi. The main features of this home are: • Large Master bedroom with room for sitting area, large ensuite with double vanity, two person tub, large shower and an extra large walk in closet. Views, large windows, r/o gas fireplace, barn door and heated floors in ensuite. • Private guest bedroom with exterior French door onto patio with bathroom. • Den off of front door perfect for a home office. • Rough in elevator which can be used if owners want to stay in home as they age and perfect for storage in the meantime. • Additional bedroom on upper floor with large walk-in closet. • Large laundry room with a room for a 10-foot craft/sewing table complete with mountain views. • Bonus space (500+ Sq/ft) over ga-
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rage, which could be modified for a bachelor suite or additional bedroom, games room, man or woman cave. • Open kitchen ideal for entertaining, with double French doors onto deck. • Kitchen and bathrooms with maple cabinetry topped with granite and quartz. “We enjoyed this project and look forward to building another when time permits. Our staff did a great job, with Wade Dupont taking lead on this job. Wade started with GNB Builders in 2012 as a labourer and is GNB’s first apprentice to complete his Red Seal Carpentry ticket. Several of our apprentices worked on this project, learning many aspects of construction from foundation to exterior siding,” says Greg, who is committed into providing training to those entering the industry. GNB Builders is currently looking to add another carpenter and labourer to their team, as they are booked for several years in the Ladysmith and Yellowpoint area. “It is nice to work minutes from your home with no traffic and on spectacular properties,” say Greg. Here are some of the trades and suppliers on this month’s Home Challenge: Am Meter Electric – 250-246-4899, GNB Builders 250-245-5717, Mclaren Lighting 250-758-0138, Pope & Sons - 250-755-1117, United Floors 250-758-4664
Above: Open concept kitchen & living area Double vanity with Calcutta Neuvo quartz, large mirror, walk in shower and two person tub. Photos courtesy of GNB Builders
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Vancouver Island Construction Business of the Year GNB Builders started off the year with the Construction/Development Business of the Year Award at the 2017 Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards, followed by 2017 Vancouver Island Building Excellence Award for Best Single Family Bathroom Renovation under $50,000. “We are honoured to be recognized and share these awards with all our employees and trades, who make up the GNB team,” says Greg Bianchini, owner of GNB Builders, multiple award winning company. Bianchini has been in the business for over 30 years, starting in Victoria and settling, along with his wife, Heidi Bianchini, in Ladysmith in 2005, where they have built there forever home and started their family. They both see Ladysmith as a town to invest in and a great place to raise their children. GNB Builders is a Built Green and Energy Star Certified Builder and certifies all homes. The company focuses on custom homes and major renovations. They are consistently acknowledged for their quality work with such awards as Built Green Builder/R 2000 of the Year for British Columbia, and Gold and Silver Awards through the Canadian Home Builders Association Vancouver Island for Best Small Volume Builder of
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the Year, Best Production Home, Best Custom Millwork, Best Renovator, Best Kitchen over $50,000 and Project of the Year. Heidi Bianchini, business manager and interior designer, works closely with clients to ensure the house reflects the client’s personality and style, all the while building on the collaborative team approach. Greg Bianchini’s passion for building has continued to develop, with him taking lead in the building design of the custom homes complete with the landscape plan. Bianchini respects the relationship between the home design and the surrounding topography, bringing a vision of continuity. Greg and Heidi believe in giving back to the community and continue to support several local athletic teams and individuals. GNB Builders recently hired Julie-Anne Richards, a fantastic coach based in Ladysmith, to assist in long-term visioning and planning. As a family run business, the juggle for balance is a constant challenge. Now, with the plan and visioning complete, GNB builders is moving forward to ensure a healthy balance for work, family, community and joy. This new goal is in place not only for the Bianchini’s, but also staff and clients.
Clockwise: Greg and Heidi Bianchini of GNB Builders accepting award. Robbie Matson, Brock Fougere, Chance Blackwell, Wade Dupont during Pink T-Shirt Day. Photos courtesy of GNB Builders
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RDN Area A (Cedar, Cassidy, S. Wellington) Rural Areas Buried In Costs At the April 2017 Association of Vancouver Island & Coastal Communities (AVICC) AGM & Conference held in Campbell River, the delegates had an opportunity to discuss a number of resolutions asking more senior levels of government to address issues of concern for municipalities and/or rural (unincorporated) areas. The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) presented four resolutions and all were approved by the delegates and they now move on to the Union of B.C. Municipalities AGM & Conference to be held in Vancouver in mid-September 2017. One of the most important for the RDN involved Hazardous Properties Remediation Costs. In exercising their legislated authority (and responsibility) to remediate properties having hazardous conditions and/ or environmental contamination, any costs incurred may be recovered from the property owners. If these costs are not paid by the property owner then any arrears unpaid at December 31st of the year in which the work is completed may be added to the property tax rolls. Under the terms of the Taxation (Rural Areas) Act, RSBC the property may be forfeited to the Province; however, the Province is under no obligation to reimburse the regional district for the costs incurred. Typically, the Province inherits a property and erases any encumbrances on title – including the costs owing to the regional district. When the regional district is not reimbursed for the monies expended then rural property owners must subsidize the costs of remediation through property tax increases. In response, the following resolution was approved by the delegates to the AVICC AGM & Conference: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Union of British Columbia
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Municipalities urges the Province to enact legislation or provisions that enable regional districts to be reimbursed for the costs of remediating properties of hazardous conditions and/or environmental contamination that are subsequently forfeited to the Province on default of payment of the costs by the property owner. Why progress this issue now? I cannot speak for other elected officials but my motivation in advancing this issue results from experiencing remediation of a hazardous and contaminated structure within the Electoral Area (Cedar, Yellowpoint, Cassidy, South Wellington) I represent. With a non-responsive property owner, I expected that upon what appears to be likely forfeit to the province, we would have our costs repaid by the Province. The cost of remediation now exceeds $100,000. I did not expect staff to advise that one shouldn’t count on the Province repaying any monies. With the assessed value of the remediated property at least 1.75 times the costs, this would mean that the Province, upon sale of the property, would pocket a considerable sum of money at the expense of the regional district obligated to act in removing the hazardous conditions. Most of you have probably viewed the various programs on television with the word “hoarding” in their title. They are legion with titles like “Hoarding” and “Hoarding – Buried Alive”. While the property noted above arose because of a spectacular fire, the issue of hoarding by property owners is now becoming a potentially significant cost issue for rural areas. Currently, throughout the RDN, there are a handful of properties needing to be addressed where the remediation costs are expected to each exceed $50,000. The potential property tax burden for the rural residents if the Province declines repayment on forfeited properties needs to be addressed. I would urge rural property owners to bring this matter to the attention of our recently-elected or
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re-elected MLA. I will be progressing the issue with Doug Routley, MLA and it would be helpful to have other voices added to the call to have this unfair practice eliminated. alecmcpherson@shaw.ca
CVRD Area H (North Oyster, Diamond) Water Systems Update It is no secret that providing potable water for Cowichan Valley residents has become a significant challenge for the engineering staff at the Cowichan Valley Regional District. This challenge affects only those who are living the nine rural electoral areas. A Brief Background In the early years of Canada, it was soon discovered that Vancouver Island was an ideal place to live. The warm winters and sunny summers enticed residents from the east to leave the harsh winters behind and settle down in British Columbia. This resulted in an influx of population on Vancouver Island. The population continues to grow to this day. Past provincial government recognized that densification was occurring in all parts of Vancouver Island. The government approved many of these large subdivisions with the caveat that the developers must prove that potable water systems and adequate septic systems were available to the future homeowners on small lots. In response to government regulations, many small lot developers chose to install water and sewer systems in the new subdivisions. Once the systems were completed, many of the developers turned the responsibility for the systems over to a group of residents. The residents formed the necessary water boards and set the cost for maintenance of the systems and provision of water. The rural population residing on much larger lots did not have access to municipal type services; individual wells and septic systems were the order of the day. Most of the residents in North Oyster/
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Diamond continue to have their own wells and septic systems. The Current Situation Many of the water and sewer systems were underfunded from the start. Maintenance and repairs were often inadequate and very expensive; the water provided to the residents often did not meet the standards. As a result, the regional districts on Vancouver Island have often been asked by the water purveyors and small water groups to take over troubled systems. For a number of years, the Cowichan Valley Regional District has been inundated with requests for systems to be taken over. Today, the requests continue to grow; however, the Region simply does not have the capacity or the funding to operate the systems. Currently there is a moratorium on takeover requests. The moratorium was initiated and approved by the CVRD board. Three North Oyster/Diamond Examples Shellwood Water System: For a number of years, the operators of this system have been working hard with the CVRD to resolve issues related to their aging infrastructure. On March 8, I had the pleasure of cutting a ribbon to recognize the completion of the final infrastructure. I would like to thank the CVRD engineering staff for their hard work in finding a long-term resolution for the water system. And a great big “thank you” to all those who attended the opening. Woodley Range: This system has been problematic from the start. After many years of inadequate service, inadequate water supply and high costs, the Province ordered that the system be taken over by the CVRD. There are very limited answers to the problems that exist today. The engineering staff are looking into every possible option. At this time, there is no concrete option and the water will continue to be trucked into the community. Shell Beach: The residents and operators of the Shell Beach Water System are currently impacted by the moratorium on system takeovers. Currently, staff are fine tuning the current policy and drafting new wording for the “Takeover Policy.” I recognize that this is a difficult position for the residents; however, the CVRD will continue to explore options for resolving the outstanding issues and procuring a clear policy on taking over systems.
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CVRD Area G (Saltair) Saltair’s Davis Lagoon One of Saltair’s most outstanding geographical features is the Davis Lagoon and its curved bridge where Chemainus Road crosses the Lagoon before it enters Ladysmith Harbour. This bridge is also made famous by the artist E.J. Hughes’ painting of the curved roadway and lagoon area. Reproductions of the painting can be purchased in various sizes from the Hughes Gallery in Duncan. On his retirement, Don Naslund of Saltair was give one for his many years of service as our sole parks maintenance person in Saltair. This was before the CVRD had a private contractor take over the work at multiple the cost. The Davis Lagoon is the terminus of Stocking Creek, which starts up at Stocking Lake, our drinking water source, and travels five or six kilometres downhill to the sea. The water in the lagoon used to be quite a bit deeper in the past, and residents used to launch their boats there to go out fishing. For myself, I could decide after work to go fishing, and in 15 minutes, I could be out on the water with my line trailing behind the boat. It was very convenient and very popular. The parking lot would be full of cars and trailers, and sometimes people even would have to park on the other side of the bridge as overflow. About seven years ago, there was a landslide in the Stocking Creek gully at the end of Knudsen Road, which was about 120 feet wide and 400 feet downhill. The slide put about six to eight feet deep of mud directly across the creek and temporarily blocked off the water flow. This happened in the middle of winter while the creek was at full flow. It so happened that this slide area also included a neighbourhood dump site and took a huge amount of debris into the creek; some of it 400 yards down into the lagoon. This posed a huge problem of cleanup. About 20 organized residents and neighbours donned hip waders and gloves to clean up the garbage. The Grahams allowed a Bobcat trail to be put down the hill on their property to the base of the slide to haul out the garbage up, so trucks could take it away. The Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club and the Chemainus Fish and Game Rod and Gun Club also volunteered with their quads to haul the trash to the top of the hill. On the lower end, from the slide down to the lagoon, an aluminium boat was used to float the trash on the relatively flat water to the boat ramp for haulage to Peerless Road Transfer Station. All of this spirited work was done by volunteers at no cost to the taxpayers. The health of the creek and the lagoon are very important to people of Saltair and the region. Every fall, usually in October, the salmon can be seen jumping before they enter the lagoon and Stocking Creek. Hundreds of chum salmon and a few coho salmon return to their spawning habitat in Stocking Creek. The Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club has restocked Stocking Creek and provided better spawning habitat over the years. After the slide, a huge amount of mud entered the area near the bridge and made the water level shallower and less suitable for regular boat launching at the lower tides, but still a great launch site for canoes and kayaks. If a small wooden float was built for launching, it would be very convenient for the paddlers.
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Parks or Developments? In a recent release of a batch of “in camera” motions from 2016 and part 2017 was a motion “to direct staff to list the Town-owned property at 900 Russell Road in Ladysmith.” Let me set one thing straight from the beginning, the Town has the right to sell off Town-owned property if it feels it is in the public’s interest, and they have the right to decide to sell or purchase property behind closed doors. In fact, the Community Charter that the Town operates under says they can go in camera when they feel “the acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land or improvements, if council considers that the disclosure could reasonably be expected to harm the interest of the municipality.” The property at 900 Russell Road was first purchased while I was on Council in 2003 for $190,000, with funding from Parks (90 per cent) and Real Property Reserves (10 per cent). In fact, I made the motion to purchase this land. The intent of my motion was that the land would become a park. At the time, I real-
ized that this site was not suitable for a playing field, but I wished to ensure that the existing and future residents in that general area had an open space forever. I personally would have liked to have seen space for walking trails, a tennis court, fitness workout areas and a running trail. Time changes and so do the needs of the community. What was envisioned then may not suitable now. In an open letter to residents of the immediate area, the Mayor stated that “the sale of the property will provide funds that can be used for future capital projects or property purchases that will benefit Ladysmith residents.” He also said, “... any future development of the property must ensure that a portion of the property is dedicated as parkland for all residents in the area.” Part of the letter’s justification for selling off this site is that it is unsuitable for sports fields. He stated that “one of the considerations (when purchased) was that part of it could be used for future sports fields.” As I said earlier, I knew the site was not suitable for a sports field and, I believe, so did others on Council
A parcel of land at 900 block Russell Road in Ladysmith is being sold. The land was used by residents as green space. Photos: Rob Johnson
who voted to approve the motion. This plan to sell the property at 900 Russell Road has upset many of the residents in the area because they have been lead to believe that this site was parkland, and hence, it would never be sold. In fact, the Town never rezoned it from single family dwelling residential. Information from the Town stated that “the property has never been zoned as parkland nor was it ever established as park by the Town.” The Town first started marketing this land in 2010 and then again in 2012. The idea of disposing this site must have been addressed by the Parks and Recreation and Culture Commission, for in March 2012 a motion was passed to advise the Commission that their recommendation to set aside 50 per cent of the land for parkland was “not economically viable.” Later that year, Council directed staff to
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“ensure that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of 900 Russell Road is utilized in the development of a park on the subject property.” In 2013, Council directed staff that “...the listing stipulate that 25% of the lot must be preserved as parkland.” Then in 2016, the per cent of the property to be preserved as open space (note: no longer referred to as parkland) be reduced to a minimum of 15 per cent. A major factor affecting the needs of residents in the south end of Ladysmith for “open space” or “parkland” was the Town acquiring 33+ acres of land just to south and west of 900 Russell Road — a park that most neighbours of Russell Road and the rest of the town are unaware of. It was established as parkland (open space) through a covenant with the developer during the subdivision process for the Seascape Phase II development in 2005/2006. It has been zoned P-3 (Natural Park) and not parkland or open space. The majority of this land is very steep and muddy and not great park space for the vast majority of our residents, especially the elderly and young children. The big question is do we want park
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and open space for the people or do we want to sell off land that we will never get back? The asking price on this site is $1,750,000. It was purchased for $190,000. After considering improvements to the site, commissions and other costs, the Town could net out a “profit” of over $1million. Mayor Stone in his letter said the sale “... could raise funds that could be used for future capital purchases that will benefit Ladysmith residents.” This is very true, but is the cost worth it? Should residents in the south end of Ladysmith have easy access to
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usable parks and open spaces? Should Council take advantage of the “hot “market “to make important investments in the future of our community”? When I first proposed purchasing this site, it was with the aim of supplying park and open space for the residents of the south end. I believe that we should be acquiring more park and open space that is usable to the public and should not be selling it off for short-term financial gains. Parks are our gift for future generations. At least that’s as I see it.
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A Garden of Memories They say “it takes a village to raise a child,” and it seems this can apply to gardens too. As I take stock of all the plants from friends’ gardens, I realize that what I have is a garden full of memories. They go back to my earliest days when I had a gardening business in Victoria called Forget Me Not Gardening, and I was taking care of 30 gardens. That meant I got to know my plants pretty fast, and some were more arresting than others. Margaret Gordon was a 95-year-old spinster living in the same house she had grown up in, in Oak Bay. One day, I walked into her backyard where the sight of Iris ochroleuca, a 5-foot-tall, yellow and cream spuria iris, in full bloom stopped me in my tracks. Today, I enjoy the same
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elegant iris every spring, and I think back to Margaret and her cat Monty (because of course I had to have a section!). Michelle was a regular customer at my Garden Path Nursery in Victoria, and one day, she invited me for tea in her cottage garden. There I discovered she had an extensive peony collection, and she insisted that I come back in fall and dig out some tubers from every one of them for my garden. Michelle told me she had been diagnosed with an incurable illness and had to move, and she wanted to leave me a legacy of her peony collection. Every spring, when my peonies bloom, I thank Michelle and her partner, Allan, for that moment of generosity and think of them. The True Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum spp.), blooming outside the living room window where we often sit, reminds me of the day Joyce came bounding down the driveway with a huge clump of it in her arms. “Do you want some?” It’s now one of my favourites in the early spring garden as it displays its fronds of drooping white bells under the shade of the Douglas Fir tree. I am relieved to see Jackie’s raspberries made it through this tough winter. Jackie lives in downtown Victoria and borrows her neighbours’ gardens to grow more food and have a small flock of chickens. Her ever-bearing raspberries spread under her fence to the garden next door, so now everyone has a share of the picking. There are always plenty of canes to share too. I love the fact that you get two crops a year from them, one in June/July and an even better one in September/October. Plenty for fresh eating and freezing for winter smoothies. Once upon a time, I was the head gardener at Point Ellice House in Victoria,
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a restored two-acre Victorian garden on the Gorge. One day, while cutting back an overgrown area in the kitchen garden, I discovered a small current bush. I took cuttings from it and am now in the possession of the extant heritage blackcurrant bush from this historic site. Every year, my blackcurrant produces three times more currants than the modern varieties growing next to it and I think of the O’Reilly family, who lived in this home from 1867 to 1975, where they grew an extensive kitchen garden for all their fruits and vegetables. I moved these plants with me when I moved so that the memory of my life before would be preserved. The years flash by, people come and go, but the memories are stored and preserved forever. A garden is a wonderful way to remind you of wonderful memories from the passage of time. Carolyn Herriot is author of “The Zero Mile Diet” and “The Zero Mile Diet Cookbook.” Available at your local bookstore.
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A passing shot How come people aren’t allowed to die anymore? No, instead we have to pass. It used to be we got to pass away, but now a pass is sufficient. Well, I’m not a team player. I’m a ball hog with no intention to pass. I might croak, go to the happy hunting ground, shop at the big liquor store in the sky, but I don’t want to hear Delbert passed. If I do, I’ll come back and haunt you. I have chosen my pallbearers in advance and have instructed them to seize any alcoholic beverage at the wake from anyone overheard using the P-word. As to why they call it a wake, I don’t know. I’m not a boat. Anyone who persists in saying I passed shall be tied down and
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force-fed those ridiculous cucumber sandwiches with no crusts that Aunt Tilly will be making for the occasion. (Seems like our family can’t have a funeral without them.) I, for one, feel sorry for the word passed. It already has enough meanings to convey. Check out a dictionary, you’ll find half a page of meanings for pass alone, never mind for the past tense version. Meanwhile, over at croaked, you’re lucky to get three short lines. Pass is something a quarterback does, third down and fifteen to go. It’s what you did in English and P.E., but failed to do in physics. It’s what you’d like to do to that stupid Toyota Camry hogging the road ahead. It’s what you should do when someone asks, “do you want fries with that?” As you can see, the word passed is doing enough work already. It doesn’t need any additional responsibility. When I die, I want to die, not be subjected to some soft-soaped euphemism. Not that I’ve got anything against the euphemism, but if you employ it, show some respect for the dead and make it personal. As example, for the auto enthusiast, you might say he’s run his last quarter mile; smoked his last tire. The gardener: She’s planted her last zucchini; pruned her final rose. And for the wine enthusiast: He’s popped his last cork. Note to loved ones: Anything wine related will work for me, but you’d better check with my wife first. She might have her own ideas like, “He’s left his last sock on the floor; ate his final cookie.” That’s why whenever I hear of anyone passing, I quite pointedly say, “OH, THEY FAILED. SORRY TO HEAR THAT.” Failed is a much better word to describe dying. Your heart fails, your liver fails, your hearing fails, and if you’re male, around grade three, your memory fails. Finally you fail. If you passed, that would mean going on to the next grade, not sitting out the last dance because you’re six feet under. Passing also has a spiritual connotation. It sounds like you’re moving on from one world into the next, sliding through that giant pass-thru in the sky and into a place where, for only $119.50 plus applicable taxes, Madam Z, formerly known as Bunny, will pretend to com-
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municate with you from the afterlife. Too, passing describes a winner. Dying is not my idea of entering the winner’s circle. But whether I like it or not, the word passed has slipped by the euphemism police and completely taken over from the word died. This change in meaning can be confusing to anyone who’s been out of the country for a while, as the following conversation illustrates. Danny (back from 10 long years in the Middle East): What happened to Albert? How come I never see him at work anymore? Peter: Didn’t you hear? Albert passed. Danny: Why that old ball hog. I didn’t know he had it in him. Who’d he throw to? The slotback I’ll bet. He always did favour those fast black fellas. Peter: Ah… no. Not that kind of pass. Danny: You mean more like a handoff, not a forward pass. Just as long as he didn’t throw underhand like a girl. Peter: No, you don’t understand. He passed. Danny (momentarily confused; finally palm slaps forehead.): Oh, now I get it. He passed. Night school, you’re talking about. Why didn’t you tell me? What was he taking? First aid? You know, in case someone gets machine gunned on the job. (We told you he worked in the Middle East.) Peter (getting a little cranked; thinking whoa boy, this guy spent too much time staring at the backside of a camel): NO! HE PASSED! Danny: You mean kidney stones. Ouch! That must have hurt. Did he suffer long? Peter: No. Not at all. It was instantaneous. A car accident. Danny: He got kidney stones from a car accident? That’s weird. Peter (totally losing it): NO, STUPID, HE DIDN’T HAVE KIDNEY STONES. HE DIED! Danny: Oh! He died. Why didn’t you tell me? As far as funerals are concerned, a nice send off beverage is Paul Mas Malbec. French and delicious, yours for only $14.49. Delbert Horrocks is a co-proprietor at Mahle House Restaurant. Follow him at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com
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The Cook, the Chef and the Baker The Culinary Institute at Vancouver Island University is accepting applicants for apprentice and foundation programs for budding cooks and bakers and pastry chefs. Graduates ďŹ nd work locally, nationally and even internationally, so if you have a passion for cooking or baking and want to train in well equipped kitchens come and check out VIU. Culinary Field schools to France, Belgium and Italy coming up in Spring of 2018. Seats available for August intake in both programs https://tradesappliedtech.viu.ca/baking https://tradesappliedtech.viu.ca/culinary Watch this space for interesting recipes and tips and news of the latest trends in the trade.
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JUNE 1 – 3 1, 1 to 5pm, Seniors’ Health Day at Cedar Valley Memorial Gardens; walking trails, free blood pressure clinic, hearing tests and more (250-7222244) 1, 6 to 8pm, VIU Seats for Fall Intake available; come to an information session; contact program support at 250-740-6130 to make arrangements 1, 4 to 7pm, Fun Fair at the Ladysmith Intermediate School; BBQ by donation; silent auction, outdoor & indoor games and a “cake walk” 1–3, 7:30pm, “Old Love,” Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd.
participate in setting another Guinness Book record for; bring out your nets and sticks and join in on the games! 4, 2pm, “Old Love,” Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 4, 10am, Cowichan Family Life 23rd Annual Cowichan Valley Garden Tour (250-748-8281) 4–10, “Rock Legends” at the Chemainus Festival Theatre, 9737 Chemainus Rd. 4–10, “Beach Combing,” Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. (250-245-1252) 7, 8pm, Music Bingo at the Wheaty Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd, Nanaimo
1–3, 6:25pm, Ladysmith Secondary School Performing Arts presents “We Will Rock You, Queen the Musical,” 710 6th Ave.
9, 3 to 6pm, Pig Roast at Ladysmith Secondary School & Rotary; tickets are $20 and will be available at the school as well as sold by the interact club around town!
2, 5pm, Dine on the Dock at the Ladysmith Maritime Society Community Marina Welcome Centre (250-245-1146)
10, 10:30am, 126th Anniversary St. Philip’s “Strawberry Tea,” 1797 Cedar Rd., Nanaimo (250-722-3455)
2, 9:30pm, Karaoke at the Sportsman Pub, 640 First Ave., Ladysmith
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2–3, “Rock Legends” at the Chemainus Festival Theatre, 9737 Chemainus Rd.
11, 2pm, Chemainus Classical Concerts presents “From the Heart,” Natasha Hall & Yoomi Kim, St Michael’s Church, Chemainus; Adv. tickets $20 Adults/$5 under 18 (250-748-8383)
2–3, Yellowpoint Drama Group presents the First Annual One-Act Play Festival at the Cedar Community Hall, 2388 Cedar Rd. (reservations 250-722-2459) 3, 10am, Ladysmith Kids Pirates Day – PIRATES! – Bring the family for a great day at the Ladysmith Maritime Society Docks 3, “Beach Combing,” Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. (250-245-1252) 3, 2 to 6pm, “Two Man Band” at the Wheaty Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd., Nanaimo
4 – 10 4, Noon, Ladysmith Street Hockey on 1st Ave.;
16, 9:30pm, Karaoke at the Sportsman Pub, 640 First Ave., Ladysmith 17, “Cre-8 Art Show,” Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. (250-245-1252) 17, Wheatsheaf Pub Golf Tournament at Cottonwood; sign up at the pub 17, 11am to 4pm, North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre’s (NIWRA’s) Family Day; admission is free; 1240 Leffler Rd., Errington, B.C. (250-2488534) 17, 8pm to midnight, The Glen Foster Band at the Wheaty Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd, Nanaimo
18 – 24 18–19, “Be a Hometown Tourist Weekend,” various events throughout Ladysmith and area (250-245-7015) 18–24, “Rock Legends” at the Chemainus Festival Theatre, 9737 Chemainus Rd. 18–24, “Cre-8 Art Show,” Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. (250-245-1252) 21, 10am to 3pm, Stz’uminus First Nation Aboriginal Day, Transfer Beach, Ladysmith 21, 5 to 7pm, Longest Day of Play, Market Lane & Spirit Square; free family event games, food and tons of fun!
11–17, “Rock Legends” at the Chemainus Festival Theatre, 9737 Chemainus Rd.
23–24, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex is hosting the New Zealand National Men’s Fastball Team
11–16, “Beach Combing,” Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. (250-245-1252)
24, 9:30am, “Hill Dash” a running relay event experience as you sprint up Ladysmith’s High Street; contact Rich Huggins at Active Solutions Health & Sport (250-924-4444)
14, 7 to 9pm, Nanaimo Horticultural Society Meeting, First Unitarian Fellowship Hall on Townsite Rd., Nanaimo 16, Noon, 10th Annual Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, Cottonwood G.C, (250-245-2112) 16, 5pm, Dine on the Dock at the Ladysmith Maritime Society Community Marina Welcome Centre (250-245-1146)
24, 12:30pm, Running of Balls; purchase your lucky ball for $5 and watch it as it rolls down High Street, Ladysmith, towards the victory chute (250-245-3079) 24, 5pm, “Bethlehem Alive 2017” at the Bethlehem Centre, a gala fundraiser evening, 2371 Arbot Rd., Nanaimo (250-754-3245)
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24, 9pm, “The Shakes” playing at the Sportsman Pub, 640 First Ave., Ladysmith
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July
25– 30
1, Ladysmith’s Canada Celebrations Day, Transfer Beach
25, “Cre-8 Art Show,” Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. (250-245-1252)
1, 2 to 6pm, Two Man Band at the Wheaty Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd, Nanaimo
25–30, “Rock Legends” at the Chemainus Festival Theatre, 9737 Chemainus Rd. 27, 7pm, Ladysmith Camera Club presents “Capture the Hidden World,” by Paul DeZeeuw, Hardwick Hall, High St. at 3rd Ave., Ladysmith 30, 9:30pm, Karaoke at the Sportsman Pub, 640 First Ave., Ladysmith
3–7, 9am to 3pm, Adventure Zone Daycamp, Transfer Beach (250-245-6424) 8, 2 to 6pm, “Flashback Freddy” at the Wheaty Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd, Nanaimo 10–14, 9am to 3pm, Adventure Zone Daycamp, Transfer Beach (250-245-6424) 15, 8 to midnight, “The Shakes” playing at the Wheaty Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd, Nanaimo
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17–21, 9am to 3pm, Adventure Zone Daycamp, Transfer Beach (250-245-6424) 31, 9am to 3pm, Adventure Zone Daycamp, Transfer Beach (250-245-6424)
AUGUST 1–4, 9am to 3pm, Adventure Zone Daycamp, Transfer Beach (250-245-6424)
2, 5pm, Dine on the Dock 17-18 Be a HomeTown Tourist 24, 9:30am “Hill Dash”
ONGOING EVENTS MONDAYS 10 to noon, Seniors Drop-In at the Ladysmith Resource Centre, 630 2nd Ave., Ladysmith (250245-3079) 4:45pm, Bingo Mondays, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus 7pm, Bridge at Mount Benson Legion Branch 256, 1630 East Wellington, Nanaimo (250-7548128) Mixed Slow Pitch, Night-Time Play at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 7pm, Cribbage Night, Ladysmith RC Legion Branch 171, 621 First Ave. TUESDAYS Mixed Ortho, Night-Time Play at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 7pm, Euchre at Mount Benson Legion Branch 256, 1630 East Wellington, Nanaimo (250-7548128) 7:30 to 9pm, Ladysmith Toastmasters meeting, all summer, upper level at the Ladysmith Resource Centre, 630 2nd Ave. WEDNESDAYS 9:30 to 11am, Muffin mornings, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus
10am to 3pm, Chemainus Wednesday Market, Waterwheel Park 10:15am to 2:15pm, Born Healthy at the Ladysmith Resource Centre, 630 2nd Ave., Ladysmith (Coordinator, Kate Wilton; Outreach Worker, Bev Boese; 250-245-3079) 5 to 9pm, Bingo at St. Mary’s Church Hall, 1135 Fourth Ave., Ladysmith 7pm, Bridge at Mount Benson Legion Branch 256, 1630 East Wellington, Nanaimo (250-7548128) Mixed Slow Pitch, Night-Time Play at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 7pm, Music Trivia and Karaoke at the Cranberry Arms, 1604 Cedar Rd. 7pm, Darts, Ladysmith RC Legion Branch 171, 621 First Ave. THURSDAYS 11:30am, Soup and Sandwich in the lounge, 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, by donation, Ladysmith Legion Branch 171, 621 First Ave. FRIDAYS 9:30 to 11am, Muffin mornings, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus 10 to noon, Seniors Drop-In at the Ladysmith Resource Centre, 630 2nd Avenue, Ladysmith
(250-245-3079) Noon, Hot Rod Oldies at the Wheatsheaf Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd, Nanaimo 1pm, Euchre at Mount Benson Branch 256 Legion, 1630 East Wellington, Nanaimo (250-754-8128) 4 to 6pm, Meat Draws in the lounge, Ladysmith Legion Branch 171, 621 First Ave. Mixed Ortho, Night-Time Play at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. SATURDAYS 9am, Honeymoon Bay Market starts every Saturday, from May 13 to Oct. 7, 2017 10am to 3pm, Harbour Boat Tours at Ladysmith Maritime Society, 610 Oyster Bay Rd. (250-2450109) 10:15 to 12:15pm, Dad’s Drop-In at the Ladysmith Resource Centre, 630 2nd Ave., Ladysmith (250245-3079) 3 to 5pm, Meat Draws in the lounge, Ladysmith Legion Branch 171, 621 First Ave. SUNDAYS Cedar Farmers’ Market at the Crow & Gate parking lot, 2313 Yellowpoint Rd., open Mother’s Day to the end of October
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take5.ca
FOR SALE 33 FOOT RANGER SLOOP, in top shape, ready to go, excellent single-hander, $35,000. Moored at Ladysmith Community Marina, call Rob 250245-7804 rlpink@telus.net BAYVIEW FRAMING & ART. A profitable picture framing business in its 17th year, with continued strong growth. Purchase price includes training. Contact Wanda or Bruce at 250-245-0011. GYM EQUIPMENT. Marcy power cage $350; Marcy home gym $150; one Marcy workout bench $30; 1” iron weights 260lbs $180 & plastic weights 433lbs $200; three 4’ x 8’ x 1/2” rubber gym mats $75 each. Call 250-245-2546. FOR RENT 50-ACRE FARM for rent at S. Wellington, 25-acre hay & pasture, tansy thistle always controlled, two barns available, no house incl., year-round creek and year-round monitoring must cover A.L.R. Call 250-716-0001. WANTED MANAGER - LADYSMITH MUSEUM to fill a nine week position staring June 19, 2017 on a contract basis. Approx. 20 hours per week between 9am and 9pm Mon-Sat. Skills: interpersonal skills children thru seniors, be a team player, can work on their own, supervisor summer students and volunteers, report to BOD. Email resume by June 5, 2017 to info@ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca. WANTED LIVE-IN HOUSEKEEPER for elderly gentleman on rural acreage close to Ladysmith. Salary paid bi-weekly or monthly. Call Laura 250591-0733. SENIOR NEEDS LIVE-IN HOUSEKEEPPER. Nice country property, nice house & outdoor bldgs. Some knowledge of vegetable gardening and fondness of blk. Labradors and weeding flowers would be helpful. Call 250-716-0001. BUSINESS MID-ISLAND HOME SUPPORT since 2009. Personal assistance and house cleaning available. Bondable, licensed, certified and insured for your safety and ours. For the best rates, around, please call 250-924-2273 (CARE). I CAN EDIT. Copy editing, proofreading, structural editing and more. Fiction or nonfiction; web content and eBook prep. For more information, email editican@gmail.com. HOUSE CLEANER. Attention to detail. Reliable & trustworthy! References available. Call 250-7342714.
BARNACLE BILL’S CHARTERS. Fishing, and sightseeing. Call 250-210-0787 or 250-245-4185. CONCRETE RESULTS. Contracting, full-service forming and finishing, walls, walks, patios, drives. 35 years experience. Call Gord 250-753-4024. BEADS BEADS BEADS ETC.! 9752 Willow St., Chemainus. Best prices on the Island. Follow Facebook@etcinchemainus or call 250-324-2227. EXPERIENCED HOUSE SITTER available for summer/fall 2017. References avail. Prefer long stay. www.peaceofmindhousesitting.wordpress. com. Call Kathleen 250-619-0786. ROMAX MASONRY. Chimney repairs and rebuilds. Stonework. Patios. Interlocking pavers. Fireplaces. Slate installs. Minor excavating. Romaxmasonry.com, romax-bc@shaw.ca, or 250-516-7597. HOUSESITTERS INC. now accepting home and cat-sitting jobs for spring and summer. Fully insured security & insurance house checks by retired RCMP personnel. Call 250-713-5110. HEALTH & BEAUTY JACLYNN COTTRELL REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPY. $100 for one hour; $60 for 30 minutes. Available evenings. Located across from Friesen’s on York Rd in Cedar. Call 778-971-0444. TAI CHI for mental & physical health. Beginner classes start Sept. & Jan. Mondays at Cedar Heritage Centre. On-going class Wednesdays at North Oyster Community Centre. Both classes 10am to noon $25/mo. www.nanaimotaichi.org. Call Sara 250-245-1466. EASY DOES IT FITNESS.CA for Beginners and Beyond. Hundreds of exercises to perfect your workout. Arthritis friendly; specializing in knee, shoulder, neck, hand and back exercises. Call 250-591-7665. HEARTMATH. The fastest, easiest way to reduce stress! Contact me at www.energyhealingwithjan. com. I would love to be of help. HOME & YARD NEW LIFE YARDWORK and PAINTING. Lawn mowing, weeding, power washing, rubbish removal. Prompt, courteous, reliable service for your home or business. Contact Terry at newlifeyardwork@gmail.com, call 250-668-8383. QUALITY RENOVATIONS. Big or small. 25 yrs. exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate, call Lars 250-616-1800.
JUNE 2017
DARRELL ESSAR RENOVATIONS. Over 30 years’ experience, certified journeyman carpenter. No Job is too small, from fences, decks, tile work, hardwood flooring, painting, drywall etc. For free estimate, call Darrell 250-714-3823. KEEP IT CLEAN SOLUTIONS. Top to bottom service. General, event, windows, we’ll even make your bed! Great for families, seniors, single parents, office cleaning, flexible service to fit your schedule. Email aliciajohnson@telus.net or call Alicia 250-709-1364. HOME SWEET HOME CARE SERVICES. All care inside and out of the home; home care, house work, yard work and transportation. Contact janjamieson101@gmail.com or call 250-701-2909 HOUSE CLEANING. Fast, Efficient, Reliable and Fully Insured. References Ladysmith & Chemainus. Call 250-245-5507. BOOK YOUR LAWN CUTTING SERVICES. Nine cuts & the 10th is free. IslandGardenScapes.ca; 250-802-0461. ISLAND PRUNING. Professional tree care from large scale orchards to budding new trees. I can meet any pruning need. Shrubs, vines and ornamental. Large and small clean ups. Call Darcy Belcourt 250-323-1260. KB HANDYMAN AND YARDWORKS SERVICES. Minor carpentry work, decks, fences, gutter cleaning, tree pruning, yard clean up, lawn fertilizing, mowing. Senior’s discount. Call Karl at 250-714-2738. GARDEN RENOVATION AND LANDSCAPING. Are you thinking of a garden renovation or landscaping project? Excellent quality and knowledge. We are happy to assist you with any landscaping or gardening work you need. Estimates are always free. Give Sandpiper a call! 250-246-2421. MAKE IT NICE qualified, experienced gardener available for private, residential gardens. Please call 250-754-9346.
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PETS PROFESSIONAL PET CARE SERVICE. Leash ’em & walk ’em with Marlena. Insured and bonded. Animal First Aid and CPR. Service for all pets including dog walking, home care visits, overnight with pet in my home and much more. As my love is yours! Call 250-246-3394. TOO CRAZY BIRDY HOTEL. Now three locations: Victoria, Cedar, and Comox Valley. Travel with peace of mind, parrot boarding in loving settings. Budgies to macaws. $7, $14, $18 for sml, md, lrg. toocrazybirdyhotel.com. Diana & Kip 250-722-2201. THE PET NANNY. Let us pamper and love your pets at your home or ours. Experience and references are available. Shanon or Bill at 250924-8809, Ladysmith. ANIMAL COMMUNICATOR. I provide services to help with behaviour issues, lost animals, messages your animal wants you to hear and much more. Contact me at www.talktotheanimals. ca or 250-246-3394. SENIORS LYNN’S SENIORS CARE HOME. High quality personalized care. Warm caring environment. Great food, snacks. Family events. Couples and pets welcomed. Ocean views, gardens. North Ladysmith. lynnsseniorcare.com. Call 250-245-3391.
“Some enchanted evening You may see a stranger ...” — Richard Rodgers, composer, 1949, Rodgers and Hammerstein musical South Pacific
Across a crowded room Now that I’m retired, I’ve been thinking of writing my memoirs — partially because the ol’ brainola is not quite as sharp as it used to be, so best to start scribing ASAP. They say that people tend to remember negative life events better, but for me, unless they’re also funny, they are not worth retelling. So I’m going to start with one of my sweetest memories. It all started one fateful night almost 43 years ago. The University of Waterloo Birth Control Centre was having their first meeting of the school year, asking for volunteers to staff the campus office. It was a brisk business back in 1974. I was the coordinator and just starting my schpiel in front of a packed house. And then I saw him ... who could miss him ... so tall, so handsome, and that awesome head of long dark red hair. Be still, my beating heart. Small side-step here: At this point in life, I was in my second year of studies (kinesiology) and my sixth year with a high school sweetheart named Laurie, an unusual name for a guy! Okay, so back to the meeting. Time for a meet ’n’ greet name go-around and to tell why you wanted to volunteer with the Birth Control Centre (and of course, there was that stranger ... across the crowded room). I don’t remember much after he had said that his name was Laurie and something about environmental studies. His voice was soft and I was mush. Pure mush. Love at first sight? You bet! I would have to find a way to tell Laurie #1 au revoir as I was already hatching my plan to make
Jackie Moad and Laurie Gourlay
Laurie #2 mine, mine, all mine. For starters, he would be scheduled to work all orientation shifts with me. I didn’t realize until later that Laurie (#2) had been on the same love train from the very beginning, just as eager to get to know me. He recalls walking into the room to see me deftly blowing up a condom, proving both strength and size (of said prophylactic). Glances across a room on September 16 of ’74 quickly led from mild flirting and the occasional tease to him finally getting the hint and inviting me out on our first date, November 15, an Arlo Guthrie concert ($3 per ticket). We missed the concert with winter’s first snowfall resulting in our only-friend-with-a-truck failing to negotiate the rural countryside’s dark and weaving downhill curve — but that’s another tale to spin! We all survived, except for the truck, and after what my dear ol’ dad would call “living in sin” for a year and a half, we tied the knot on June 5, 1976 — a beautiful sunny day out by a lake. Years later, the area would become a bird sanctuary and the date would become famous as World Environment Day. Kinda cool and oh so appropriate. But the powers that be have yet to declare September 16 a day for falling in love! Jackie Moad and Laurie Gourlay are livin’ the dream, together farming 20 acres organically in Cedar, holding hands on long walks in the woods and sneaking kisses whenever they can — old habits, they just don’t want to let go. Laurie #2 will always be #1 in Jackie’s heart.