TAKE 5 May 2017 by Take 5 Print & Digital Media

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Letters Annoyed by mystery noise Had anyone else noticed the new high pitched sound that seems to go on all day? Up on 2nd avenue it is all pervasive, I can hear it inside my house with the windows closed. I have grown accustomed to constant noise of the industrial sector down on the waterfront, and the steady drone of the highway. However, this new high-pitched noise is getting annoying. What is the cause of this noise? How long will this last? What about the workers in close proximity to this intense noise? Will this be permanent? This noise is starting to give me a headache. - Jason Hamilton

The Bucks in New Zeland “I have done it” announced Garth triumphantly on the ﬁrst day of our visit, “I have applied for my New Zealand citizenship.” Garth and Loyola Buck left Ladysmith about two years ago for Whangarei. Loyola loves her work, creating a Real Estate magazine. Garth is proud to have successfully turned around his Logging Mill, which is now making a proﬁt. Both have made good friends at work and in the community.

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Garth is making plans to buy a small fishing boat to use in The Bay Of Plenty, about an hour north. Loyola likes this idea because she is a keen fisher. She also is enjoying the spirituality of getting involved in running the local Anglican Church. They both miss their family and friends. They loved it when both their children, Tyler and Hayley, came to visit, and Loyola is looking for ways to finance visits to Ladysmith. Many TAKE 5 readers will remember Loyola in her many years at TAKE 5. - Gerry Yellowlees Joan Yellowlees with Garth and Loyola Buck, Gerry Yellowlees at restaurant in Whangarei. Photo submitted. Letters to the Editor are welcome. email: editor@take5. ca, take5.ca, or PO Box 59, Ladysmith, BC V9G 1H6

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Budget and Property Taxes Last month, Council set the tax rates for 2017. Although determining budgets and setting tax rates is not really “fun,” building a plan to improve Ladysmith and drive higher performance within our organization certainly is. Creating a sustainable growth plan with an eye to the future, while holding the line on expenses, is an exciting challenge. Challenge accepted! I feel our staff and council did an excellent job again this year. If we must pay taxes, then it’s fair to expect that we get good value for what we’re paying. Core services, community planning and existing amenities should be well looked after first. We expect that downtown is kept clean, that we have safe, reliable water and that our waste is processed in a responsible way. The future of Ladysmith should be well planned, building on broad consultation and engagement. Our recreation areas, parks and trails need to be well maintained for today and the next generation. The list goes on. Taking into account all of these considerations, and many more, the 2017 budget process started last fall with a series of strategic planning sessions. Council first confirmed our strategic priorities for the year based on the four-year plan adopted early in 2016 (http://www.ladysmith. ca/docs/financial-documents/councilstrategic-priorities-2016-to-2019.pdf) and then worked with our staff team to set a work plan to accomplish this year’s priority list. The budget preparation then focused on allocating funds to all of those “expected” items that we must deliver and other projects and capital investments that we intend to accomplish this year as part of our strategic plan. At the same time, it was very important to everyone on council that we keep property taxes to a minimum, and if possible to have no increase at all. I am very pleased that is year we will see

a reduction of about 0.4 per cent in property taxes based on assessed values after new construction adjustments. For an average single-family dwelling with an assessed value of $336,000 and an assessment increase of 11 per cent, the municipal share of the assessment based property tax you pay will actually go down by $5.30 from 2016. It is still important to keep in mind that many other factors will influence your final tax bill. If your assessment increased dramatically (more than the 11 per cent average), your bill may still increase. There are also regional hospital taxes, our share of Cowichan Valley Regional District taxation and school taxation, as well as an increase parcel tax amount to cover long-term improvements to Ladysmith’s sewer and water systems. Our budgeting is further affected by the fact that we also need to factor in the budgets of two more agencies – the Ladysmith RCMP Detachment and our share of the Vancouver Island Regional Library. The library sets its own budgets and the policing determines most of the detachment costs, which are added to our own municipal budget, before total tax bills are determined. The Town’s total municipal taxation for 2017 is $6.561 million. This will help pay for the ongoing costs of maintaining parks, streets and roads, running the Frank Jameson Community Centre, supporting many local community or-

ganizations through grants-in-aid, and more. We also are continuing our asset management program to save for the future by setting aside a percentage of taxation for capital projects and reserves for the long-term replacement of larger assets. In making our decisions about expenses and projects to include in the budget this year, we were very conscious of the fact that each additional $70,000 in spending would mean a 1 per cent increase in taxes. That number strikes home because, although it doesn’t sound like a lot of money, it has a big impact on affordability. This year we have also budgeted $14.77 million for capital projects, largely funded through grants. We are making generational, required investments in our community infrastructure through construction of our new water filtration plant, building a new bio-solids composting facility, expanding parking and improving the playground at Aggie Hall, extending the fire truck bays at the Fire Hall to accommodate a new fire/rescue truck, and finishing our Waterfront Area Plan Update. We continue to supplement revenues from user fees and charges to help to offset the burden on property taxes. We will also continue to partner on economic development initiatives designed to attract more light industry, retail and other commercial enterprises to invest in Ladysmith, broadening our tax base while

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growing employment opportunities. Later this year, we will also be taking an in-depth, strategic look at the distribution of property taxes in our community, relative to other municipalities on Vancouver Island and in British Columbia. This is not straightforward as communities differ widely in the infrastructure and amenities they offer through the municipal government, but it’s an important part of our planning work. Our focus is on providing a good value for residents and a competitive edge for businesses looking to invest in the future of Ladysmith. This is a bigger story for another article, so watch for that. The bottom line in all of this talk of budgets and property taxes is that we have been able to hold the line on property tax increases while making significant investments in the future of our community, laying a foundation for sustainable growth. We are building infrastructure that will provide excellent longterm value to residents. We are leading on asset management initiatives that will attract the business investment and generate economic activity the help offset the tax burden to residents in future years. I love it when a plan comes together! Waterfront Area Plan Update – Uplifting and Inspiring One of the jewels of our community, and an opportunity that we know holds tremendous potential, is our waterfront. Last year, we embarked on an update to our Waterfront Area Plan in partnership with the Stz’uminus First Nation. In midMarch, along with many members of the Ladysmith and Stz’uminus communities, I was very fortunate to take part in the Waterfront Design Charrette. The weekend-long session focused on community planning and design, environmental restoration and

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economic development along our waterfront. But what it really was: inspiring. People from all different perspectives, sifting through tonnes of community input and feedback, shared dreams and ideas, and truly worked together in the spirit of Naut’sa mawt to boldly imagine the possibilities. I am truly floored by the work that was done in just over two days. On night one, we received presentations on the environmental and seismic challenges, the long term and more recent history of the area, input from stakeholders and partners, volumes of community feedback from surveys and engagement … and more. On day two, we toured the site to put perspective on the information received, breaking into teams with our “imagineering” hats on to put all of this information on paper and overlaying maps of the waterfront with concepts to share. We then convened as a large group together to review the breakout plans, provide feedback to each other and do it all over again. Into day three, we rolled up our work with more detail, reimagining what we had done the day before and putting a finer tip on some of the concepts that were rising to the surface. And finally on that Sunday afternoon, we showed off our work to the community at the Open House. Although there are too many details to recount and much work still to do, some key elements were incorporated, including an Arts, Culture and Heritage Park concept around the Machine Shop, a Stz’uminus Cultural Centre to tell the history and celebrate the culture of Stz’uminus, park areas and people places for recreation and relaxation, additional marina space, commercial and residential possibilities, and so much more. Through all of this work, one big theme was captured above all else … WE. The waterfront will be a WE place for all of us, accessible to all incomes, ages and abilities. This vision will be realized through the coming together of our shared Ladysmith and Stz’uminus communities and the strength of our partnership. Armed with that kind of inspired motivation, we are already moving forward with the provincial and federal government, exploring options to clean up the legacy left by decades of industrial use in the harbour. Staff and the project consultants are taking the work from the design charrette, as well as the input captured earlier in the project engagement sessions and surveys to put together the first draft of the new plan. We intend to have a draft ready for review in June and will hold more public events to get your feedback and input on this exciting work. Watch our website and social media for more details. It’s an exciting time for Ladysmith. We are dramatically improving outcomes in all key areas of community development economically, environmentally and socially. Our passionate volunteers and community engagement continues to inspire our council, our broader community and our neighbours. The momentum we have now continues to build as we work with senior levels of government, our Stz’uminus partners, our regional government, NGOs and the private sector to realize the great “blue sky” of potential Ladysmith has on the horizon. All of our efforts continue to focus on the vision of working together to make Ladysmith a world-class example of what a small town can be. As always, follow me on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ solidplans) and on Twitter (@solidplans) for the latest. I also welcome your comments and questions direct to my inbox (mayor@ladysmith.ca).

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Ladysmith Maritime Society Festivals

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fresh and delicious breakfast or lunch, or your favourite coﬀee! As of May 19 the Cafe is open daily from 8 am to 3 pm. Don’t miss this annual event! It’s fun and it’s free! “Feast of the Pirates” A unique Dine on the Dock Experience at the Ladysmith Community Marina on Friday, June 2, 2017. Details will be posted on the LMS Facebook Site https://www.facebook. com/LadysmithMaritimeSociety/

Hoist Anchor and Set Sail for the Ladysmith Heritage Boat Festival! Saturday, May 27, 2017, 10 am to 4 pm at the Ladysmith Community Marina — YOUR community marina! Come and see unique and beautiful heritage vessels from all over the west coast. Talk to the Skippers and learn how these vessels were ﬁrst used in our waters and the work that has been done to restore and maintain them. Be sure to take in all the other interesting displays, artists and entertainment! The Maritime Museum provides a fascinating look into our marine history. Take a free Harbour Tour aboard Maritimer and stop into Oyster Bay Cafe where you can enjoy a

Ladysmith Kids Pirates Day PIRATES! - Bring the family for a great day at the Ladysmith Maritime Society Docks on Saturday, June 3, 2017. We have our Captain Jack and Miss Scarlett, the annual Kinsmen Bullhead Derby, the Ladysmith Rotary Food Tent, Harbour Tours, Bouncy Castle, Face Painting, Petting Zoo and much more. https://www.facebook.com/ events/723967384440015/

Ladysmith Maritime Society’s Heritage Book Festival is back May 27. A number of heritage vessels will be on display including the Saravan, pictured to the left. Photos: Cindy Damphousse.

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World largest Street Hockey Tournament Returns! The 49th Parallel Grocery and the Town of Ladysmith along with Paradise Island Foods are hosting another Guinness World Record attempt for the Largest Street Hockey Tournament in one day! The event will take place in the downtown streets of Ladysmith on Sunday June 4, 2017. As well as the fun ﬁlled tournament, there will be a “Hockey Hall of Fame” at the Aggie Hall the same day It was 10 years ago that Ladysmith held the largest street hockey game in the world with over 2000 players and made the entry into the Guineess Book of World Records. Since then the title has been lost but organizers hope this will give Ladysmith the number one spot again.

World record street hockey game was played in Ladysmith 10 years ago. Organizers are planning another tournament for June 4. Photo submitted.

Go to the website www.ladysmithstreethockey.com to see how to enter your team and get all the info you need on the Hall of Fame. Or go to www. the49th.com for the link. Let’s make this another day for the History Books for Ladysmith!

Mothers’ Day Tea Here’s a treat for mom! The Eagles Auxiliary #2101 annual Mothers’ Day

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Tea is being held Saturday, May 13, from 12 noon to 2 pm in the Eagles Hall Ladysmith. Adults $5.00 Children under 6 are free. Join them for door prizes, rafﬂe table, bake sale, fancy tea , live piano music by Gary Atkinson and more. All proceeds from the tea are donated to local charitable groups. Don’t forget to pick up a raﬄe ticket for a chance to win two nights stay at Private Island-Waters Edge, Ucluelet, second prize: Whale Watching Tour for two, Subtotal Adventures, Ucluelet. Third Prize: Dinner for four at Yellow Point Lodge. Fourth Prize: Essential Oil Locket from Ladysmith 3 Little Gems. Proceeds from the sale of these tickets goes to Muscular Dystrophy.

Saltair Water Meeting Saltair Water Advisory Committee will be holding a community meeting dedicated to Saltair Water. Some of the topics will be upgrades, costs of upgrades, grants, gas tax funds, CVRD Utility Review and ﬁltration. The committee looks forward to bringing the Saltair Community residents up to date on their past years work and the Saltair Water System. Thursday, May 4, 2017, 7 p.m, Chemainus Seniors Centre,

Ladysmith Syrian Refugee Sponsorship Group The Ladysmith Syrian Refugee Sponsorship Group has some good news. First, the family they initially applied to sponsor is safely out of Syria and living in Sweden. Second, through the generosity of this community and its prompt response to the initial fund-raising, there was a surplus of funds and household items which were shared with some of the 25 government-sponsored Syrian families in Nanaimo. Third, the application to assist through a blended government-private sponsorship agreement has matched the group with a new family - a married couple with four children, between one and 10 years of age. Temporary housing has been provided, good quality, gently-used or new, furniture, linens, and dishes have been gathered. Not everything will be in place when the family arrives; people wishing to donate anything may contact Janice Patrick (janicepatrick@hotmail.com, phone 250-245-1457). Cash donations are welcome. Funding for basic needs

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by July 14.. The results will provide information for long term planning of the Centre. There are four rooms available for rent. If you are interested in booking a space or volunteering contact: Bill Cleary at 250-245-3739.

New FoodFit Program in Cowichan

Welcoming Syrian Refugees. Photo: Marina Sacht

is already in place, but experience has shown that dental care has been an unexpected and costly expense for many Syrian families. Cheques may be made out to “Ladysmith First United Church” with “BVOR Refugee Fund” on the memo line. The church oﬃce is open from 9 am to 1pm, Tuesday-Thursday. Charitable donation receipts will be mailed out early in 2018.

Saltair Community Society The Saltair Community Society is pleased to announce that an “Agreement for Services” and a building lease have been signed with the CVRD which run until December 31, 2018. During this time, they will continue to work to achieve their goal of successfully operating the former Mount Brenton School now called Saltair Community Centre for the use and benefit of Saltair and area residents. The Society applied to the CVRD and was granted $10,000 in startup funds from Area G Saltair Tax Recreation budget 456. An official Saltair Community Centre Building Facility Condition assessment is being conducted by CVRD staff and the final draft is scheduled to be completed

Earth Day Celebrated every April 22, Earth Day is the largest, most celebrated global environmental event worldwide. First Ladysmith Guides participated in an Earth Day Community Service project by walking along First Avenue in Ladysmith picking up garbage. Great job Girls! Photo: Amanda Gillmore

Cowichan Green Community (CGC) launched a new program that brings low-income community members together to set goals, learn skills, and make measurable changes in overall health and fitness. The goal of the FoodFit program is to support community members to become better nourished, more active, and less socially isolated. Beyond food and fitness skills and knowledge, what the FoodFit program also provides is the support, encouragement, and motivation for participants to make lasting changes towards living a healthier lifestyle. Funding for the new FoodFit program comes from Community Food Centres Canada (CFCC) and the Public Health Agency of Canada through a new grants stream. Cowichan Green Community has received funding to staff, implement, and evaluate the FoodFit program over two years. For more information contact Alyssa Loucks, at 250-7488506 or alyssa@cowichangreencommunity.org

MP Sheila Malcolmson Announces $640,000 in Canada Summer Jobs Funding for Nanaimo— Ladysmith Nanaimo—Ladysmith is receiving $641,573 in Canada Summer Jobs funding in 2017/2018, up more than $77,000 from last year. The federal funding will support 190 local jobs for postsecondary students between the ages of 15 and 30. “I’m glad to see this vital funding ﬂowing into our community to create meaningful job opportunities for our young people,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Member of Parliament for Nanaimo— Ladysmith. Canada Summer Jobs 2017/2018 is funding a total of 62,651 employment hours at nearly 90 organizations in Nanaimo—Ladysmith, including the Nanaimo Aboriginal Centre, Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Vancouver Island, and Growing Opportunities Farm Community Co-op.

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Canada 150 grants celebrate local heritage Dig out your photo albums and start sharing your family story. Two local groups, the Ladysmith & District Historical Society and the Cedar Heritage Centre received news from BC Museum Association that their application for a Canada 150 project was approved. To mark the 150th anniversary of Canada’s Confederation, the Province launched a funding program to celebrate B.C. communities and their contribution to Canada. The Government of British Columbia will invest $8 million in museums and heritage sites throughout the province. Cedar Heritage Centre’s project is “Farms and Folks – A History of Cedar and Area” is a series of photos,stories and recol-

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lections of the people of Cedar and area in a multimedia book. This an interactive project that embraces traditional and new media that will celebrate Cedar’ and area as told by the residents and people representing key segments of our community. Work is underway now so if you have a family history, a story or photos to share, please contact the coordinator Marina Sacht of TAKE 5 at 250-245-7015 or email editor@take5.ca. All proceeds from the sale of the book will go to the Cedar School and Community Enhancement Society who operates the Cedar Heritage Centre. Members of the Ladysmith & District Historical Society have started their Canada 150 project, “Lives and Legends” is a series of videos that brings together the stories and recollections of old-time residents of Ladysmith. People representing key

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segments of Ladysmith’s past will be interviewed by a Ladysmith & District Historical Society (LDHS) volunteer. Some of the questions will focus on the development of our community from indigenous people’s life, mining, logging, waterfront, hotels and pubs, social life, sports, music and arts. For more information or to share your story and photos, contact the Ladysmith & District Historical Society at 250-245-0100 or info@ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca

Wildwood’s Next Chapter BY KATHY CODE What’s next for Wildwood Ecoforest in Yellow Point? The EIS Board and Special Advisors have spent the winter months crunching numbers, looking at the options and developing financial scenarios to come up with the action plan that will ensure Wildwood is on firmer financial footing. Wildwood is a unique ecoforest demonstration forest, and we want to make sure everyone from kindergarten children to registered foresters and global ecotourists has the opportunity to learn from and experience Wildwood. We’re reinvigorating Merv’s house, now known as the Wilkinson Heritage Homestead, to serve as an educational venue and accommodation for people who want a fuller Wildwood experience and retreat. Fall 2017 will see the first timber harvest since 2008. The harvest will be conducted according to ecoforestry principles and practices, selecting trees on the basis of benefit to the forest and the ecosystem, rather than human needs. Every part of the harvest will be evaluated and used to full potential, creating many value-added products. In addition, a mill shed and lumber storage shed will be constructed. Harvest, building and value-added activities will be accompanied by educational programming available to the public. So, how can you help? Donate funds, become an instructor and share your expertise, attend events at Wildwood, become part of the Wildwood community. For more information, contact EIS at admin@ecoforestry.ca Join us for an Open House at Wildwood on Sunday May 28.

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dysmith Archives and Museum, the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce, and the Ladysmith Community Marina Welcome Centre. For more information phone 250-245-0100, info@ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca

Celebrate Canada’s Birthday with Yellow Point Singers Book Launch Everyone is invited to the book launch for the Early Music in Ladysmith British Columbia 1902-1912 by local author Dr. Brian D. Bornhold will be held at Salamander Books in Ladysmith on Wednesday, May 10, 2017 from 2 to 4 p.m.. The book explores the earliest days of music in Ladysmith just as the town was being born, fresh from the forest, building its houses, businesses, roads, railroad lines and wharves. Many historic photos have not been published before. The author and members of the Ladysmith & District Historical Society will be available to answer questions and sign books. Light refreshments will be served. The book sells for $20 with all proceeds going to the Ladysmith & Dis-

Early Music in Ladysmith B.C. 1902–1912 book launch will be held at Salamander Books on May 10. Copies available now.

trict Historical Society and their work in preserving and promoting heritage. The book is also available at the La-

In honour of Canada’s 150th birthday celebrations, Yellow Point Singers will present an ‘all-Canadian’ program at their upcoming concert on May 7, at Oceanview Community Church, Ladysmith at 3 p.m. Songs representing the east coast to the west coast, as well as the northern regions. The selections showcase a number of choral styles of music, some lyrical melodies along with some fresh arrangements of familiar heritage songs. Members of the audience will recognize tunes written by Canadians about Canada, such as Ian Tyson’s ‘Four Strong Winds’ and Gilles Vigneault’s ‘Mon Pays’; other selections are either written or arranged by Canadians, such as Leonard Cohen and Oscar Peterson. Guest performers for this concert will be Sharyn Andruski-Collins and David Duncan, a piano and ﬂute duo who will present selections by Ravel and Debussy, and Jeremy Roszmann, a (baritone/bass) soloist who will include songs from his repertoire. All proceeds go to the community. Tickets are $10 for adults and children under 14 are free. Light refreshments are available after the concert.

Ladysmith Little Theatre presents Old Love Written by Norm Foster and directed by Gordon McInnis, Old Love is a story of romance, courtship and relationships between older adults. He’s recently divorced. She’s newly-widowed. At her husband’s funeral, an old acquaintance emerges to pay his respects, leading to a re-awakening of forgotten emotions. The story spans three decades and half a dozen meetings between Bud, a salesman and Molly, his boss’s wife. The two main characters are played by Lynnia Clark and Christan Ostaﬀy. Old Love is Ladysmith Little Theatre’s entry into the 2017 Theatre BC Festival. The adjudicated performance will be held on Saturday, May 27, with Coﬀee Critique at 10 am, May 28, at 10 a.m.

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The play runs May 18, to June 4. For reservations visit ladysmiththeatre.com or phone 250-924-0658 Box OďŹ&#x192;ce hours: Mon., Wed., Fri. 1-3 pm.

At the Waterfront Gallery

Still Life in the Abstract Garden opens May 6. The Abstact Garden is characteristic of a Japanese style. The most famous example is the garden of the Ryuan-ji in Kyuto where an area the size of a tennis court is covered with raked sand and set with 15 stones. The Abstract Gar-

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den can be simple or complicated. The artist is challenged to express their own interpretation of the Abstract Garden. Starting May 20, the gallery will show the Chemainus Sketch Group. The art group has been encouraging local artists for over 48 years. Six of their artists will be on exhibit, with the gala opening May 20, 2017 at 7pm, show runs until May 28, 2017. Demos during show daily. Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Drive, Ladysmith, 250-2451252, ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com

Ladysmith Rotary 20th Annual Garden Tour The Rotary Club of Ladysmith will be hosting their 20th Annual Garden Tour on Sunday, May 28, 2017. Eight area gardens, ranging from acreages in Yellow Point and Cedar to home gardens of varying sizes in Ladysmith and Saltair will be open for self-directed tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jim and Heather Derby’s garden has been over 40 years in the making. The waterfront home and grounds in Saltair have been groomed to take advantage of the lifestyle and the environment. Even without a garden this would be a

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beautiful setting, but the Derby’s have turned this into a mini Butchart Garden. The gardens feature two water ponds, a variety of rhodos. and “a heather for every season.” The garden is a delight at any time of year but is most colourful in the spring, perfect timing for the Rotary Garden Tour. Come and enjoy the Derby gardens and seven others featuring boulevard plantings, formal gardens, natural settings with ponds, hardscaping to enhance streams and waterfalls, berry and vegetable beds, and glorious ﬂowers, shrubs and trees. Adding to the fun will be local artists present at most gardens, The Rotary Garden Tour is a wonderful opportunity for gardeners of all skill levels to visit and admire gardens otherwise unavailable to them. The tour has been carefully constructed so that there is ample time for you to visit all eight gardens. Just follow directions on the map provided. There will be a large local area map at Aggie Hall – as well as someone there to help you plan your garden visits. It all starts at the Aggie Hall in Ladysmith with two Master Gardeners in

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attendance the morning of the tour to answer your gardening questions. Take time to visit our Garden Bower to enjoy a sumptuous continental breakfast or our special “High Tea”. Local home and garden-related businesses will offer their products for sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Booths with B.C. handicrafts will also be on display. Enter their free draws! A video presentation produced by Frank Elsom on the theme “Ladysmith Gardens and Flowers” will run continuously and live music will be featured in the Garden Bower. The popular raﬄe tickets feature three great prizes: a pair of Bill Hutchinson cedar lawn chairs, a cedar love seat and a large garden themed gift basket and are available now from Ladysmith Rotary members and at the hall on the day of the Garden Tour. The raﬄe draw is at 1:30 pm at Aggie Hall. The hall is open 8:45 am to 2:30 pm. Garden Tour tickets: Advance: $15, Day of Tour: $20 (includes garden pass, program and map.) Breakfast (8:45 -10:30am) Tickets $5 (Optional) High Tea (11:30am-2:00pm) Tickets $10 (optional) Garden Tour tickets available at Aggie Hall on Tour Day, or in advance from Ladysmith Rotarians, Nancy’s Fashions, Pemberton Holmes Real Estate or the 49th Parallel Grocery in Ladysmith. Call Ed Nicholson at 250-924-3402 or email kaixin@mac.com for more information. The Garden Tour is organized by the Rotary Club of Ladysmith. Above: Heather Derby in her garden, one of the eight gardens featured this year in the Rotary Tour. Photo: Marina Sacht

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Gardening for a changing climate Is it just me or has it been looking pretty bleak outdoors? I know every time I see the sunshine I soak it up like a starved person. This winter has been just plain depressing, colder with more snow and rain and less sun than “normal.” It seems to me there is no normal anymore. Once the weather gets messed up, you have to take what you get, but it can play havoc on some peoples livelihoods, and it definitely affects the rhythms of food production. That’s what it’s been like for farmers and growers over the years, with climatic conditions changing to longer cooler spring seasons. With lack of sun comes spindly seedlings and slow growth; with too much rain comes muddy fields and cold soils. This year it’s too wet to plant spuds in April, and baby lambs are dying from romping on overly wet pastures. This year farmers are a month behind with their “normal” planting schedule. That’s frustrating for local farmers, who want to get their crops in early to get a spring harvest, so they resort to growing undercover, in huge “hoop houses” covered in plastic. They cover their fields with landscape fabric to warm

up the soil, often even growing plants through the fabric for the whole season. They seed crops under cloche frames of spun polyester or six-millilitre plastic. This is all very expensive and labour intensive, but when the weather throws a wrench in your production schedule, you have to employ methods to change the growing environment. Last year, the only tomatoes that survived the late blight in September were the ones growing up wires inside a hoop greenhouse. When the weather suddenly cooled down in September, the whole field of tomatoes turned black from blight and the entire fall crop was lost. There went my plans to take bushels of heritage tomatoes to the farmers market in fall. The year before it was hot, dry and sunny all summer, so I had bumper crops of field tomatoes for processing and market. Well, “it’s a farmers life” when no two years are the same. Poor weather also takes its toll on the garden centres. The growers have specific schedules for plant production for release into the market in early spring.

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When the weather is wet and cold, gardeners can’t get outdoors to get their gardens prepared, resulting in a backlog in the greenhouses because plant stock is not moving out of the garden centres. When I ran a plant nursery in Victoria 25 years ago, it was quite a different story. Spring conditions then allowed us to plant food gardens in March and April, followed by a long hot summer and often an Indian summer lasting until October. Then there was a much longer growing season. Over the years, spring conditions have shifted to longer, colder springs, which means a delay until June when planting heat-loving plants, such as tomatoes, beans squash and corn. Now no one is sure what to expect from the weather, as it differs from year to year. Last year, neither the Indian summer nor the normally mild winter showed up. Why are we having such cold wet weather when the world is supposedly warming? It’s a good question. Last winter, the Arctic was up to 30 C warmer than normal. This is causing the Arctic jet-stream to lose its stability, bringing cold Arctic air into Canada and the U.S., including here on the West Coast. Ultimately, we have only ourselves to blame because we continue to burn fossil fuels, and it’s also due to all the meat we are eating and all the forests we are losing around the world. It’s time for some serious reflection on making drastic changes to alter the path we are on, and there’s no time like the present, with a pending election, to cast your vote for change. Carolyn Herriot is author of “The Zero Mile Diet” and “The Zero Mile Diet Cookbook.” Available at your local bookstore.

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Meet the Candidates General Voting Day is May 9 in the British Columbia 2017 General election. On that day you will decide who will represent you for the next term. We invited the candidates to submit a brief bio and encourage you to get informed. Here are the candidates running in the Nanaimo – North Cowichan District. P Anna Paddon (Independent) could not be reached by press time) Alana DeLong (Liberal) is a mother, an entrepreneur, a mathematician, a computer programmer and, last but not least, a politician with passion for getting things done.She returned to Vancouver Island after a stellar business career during which she worked for major corporations before founding a successful 11-person software company that specialized in making incompatible systems communicate with each other. She then took these skills into politics and spent 12 years as an MLA, earning a reputation as a constituency politician who actively sought solutions to people’s problems even if it meant going straight to the Premier for answers. She has come out of her peaceful retirement on Thetis Island after becoming frustrated by the lack of solutions to regular problems like interrupted water supplies and crumbling roads, problems she knows can be solved by a conscientious MLA who really listens. She also knows what it takes to attract investment in added-value forestry projects that will reduce log exports and create well-paying jobs right here. Doug Routley (NDP) long time Vancouver Island resident who understands the unique challenges and opportunities of life in this region. As an MLA, Doug is committed to representing his community’s interests in Victoria. Some of his achievements as MLA include: Critic for Housing and Homelessness, Critic for Skills Training and Apprenticeship, Critic for Citizen Services and Open Government, Freedom of Information and Privacy Protection and Deputy Critic of Health. While a member of the Select Standing Committee on Education Doug traveled throughout BC consulting with citizens, stakeholders and experts on the issue of adult literacy. The committee heard from a broad range of people about the challenges faced by British Columbians who are challenged by issues of literacy. When the BC Liberal majority on the committee refused to include many of the views that were heard, particularly those critical voices, Doug spearheaded the submission of a minority report.

Lia Versaevel (BC Green Party) is a Chemainus resident and small business owner Versaevel, 61, has more than 35 years of experience in conﬂict resolution, collaborative justice, education and law enforcement, as well as advocacy for the vulnerable. Versaevel spent 27 years with the B.C. Ministry of the Attorney General before moving to the U.S. in 2004 to work in family mediation. On her return to Vancouver Island in 2013, she re-established her business, Accord Family Mediation Services. Versaevel is President of Family Mediation Canada, board member of the Chemainus Residents’ Association, vicepresident of Ladysmith’s Lions Club, and member of the B.C. Wildlife Federation. [94] As your MLA I will work with others in the legislature to implement a basic income, raise the minimum wage and eliminate MSP premiums as part of a multi-faceted poverty reduction strategy. Lastly, I want to partner with educators, citizens and scientists to establish an international commission, similar to that for the Great Lakes, to protect the Salish Sea. Exercise your right to vote on Election Day!

RDN Area A (Cedar Cassidy, S. Wellington) Responsible Conduct of Local Government Officials At the September 2016 Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM) AGM and Conference held in Victoria, a resolution related to responsible conduct was referred to staff for further exploration. The 2016 discussion revolved around the value of appointing an Integrity Commissioner to ensure appropriate conduct on the part of elected officials. The discussion highlighted that there had been an apparent and relatively recent radical change in how local government elected officials conducted themselves with their elected official colleagues, staff and the public, and that the current remedies afforded within the Local Government Act were insufficient. As a result of this, a Working Group on Responsible Conduct was formed by way of a joint initiative of the UBCM, the Local Government Management Association, and the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. A staff-level working group was created in Fall 2016 to undertake collaborative research and policy work on the issue of responsible conduct of local government elected officials. Recently, a draft

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consultation paper was issued and a workshop was held at the April 2017 Association of Vancouver Island & Coastal Communities (AVICC) to discuss the issues and get feedback on the document’s recommendations. The consultation paper denotes the importance of responsible government in the following statement extracted from the paper: “Responsible conduct is grounded in conducting oneself with honesty and integrity and in a way that furthers a local government’s ability to provide good governance to their community (e.g. governing in a way that is transparent, ethical, accountable, respectful of the rule of law, collaborative, effective and efficient). If a local government faces issues related to responsible conduct among its elected decision-makers, it can affect the local government’s ability to provide good local governance. These issues can include disputes among local government elected officials on municipal council and regional district boards, inappropriate behaviour towards staff, questionable behaviour at council/board meetings or in interactions with the public, conflict of interest violations, and alleged breaches of other procedures/ rules, such as open meetings and duty to respect confidentiality.” A number of elected officials – male

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and female – spoke to their personal experiences. Clearly, the lack of responsible conduct is a huge and growing issue in a number of municipalities and regional districts within the AVICC collective. While residents may read about elected officials resigning, lawsuits being initiated against elected officials and other such events in the media world – and in particular the social media world – these events allow for inferences as to reasons and motives to be ascribed that are often extremely misleading and hurtful to those named. One of the speakers spoke of conduct experienced within in camera sessions where actions against another elected official or staff person could only be characterized as an assault on their person. Another spoke of efforts on their part to have offices of the provincial government – including the Ministry of Community, Sport and Culture and the Office of the Ombudsman – take action to assist in addressing the issue, but to no avail. Calls of “shame…shame” ensued from the audience of elected officials. Perhaps, if the reportedly egregious conduct had been addressed early in the term, we would not be seeing continuation of the bullying behaviour and the departure of elected officials from the ranks. Outside of the psychological cost to those under attack, the financial cost of

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a by-election – estimated to be in the $80,000 to $120,000 for mid-sized municipalities – should be sufficient to demand that this type of conduct be stopped. In a subsequent scrum of elected officials, it was clear that a number of elected women in other municipalities are experiencing similar bullying from their colleagues. This unacceptable behaviour also extends to staff. If this type of conduct is permitted to continue one should expect that fewer quality people will put their names forward to fill the positions – elected office and staff. Accordingly, one should expect that the quality of the decision-making and the ability of the local government to provide good governance to their communities will be diminished. Hopefully, when the next municipal elections take place in October 2018, we will see more women place their names to run for elected office. In my opinion, decision-making has the best outcomes for communities when there is a generous mix of genders, cultures and range of ages providing input. alecmcpherson@shaw.ca

CVRD Area H (North Oyster, Diamond) As you may be aware, over 100 years ago local governments across the Province received their mandate for governance from the Province. Their powers were derived through the 1867 Constitution Act and were listed in the act between asylums and saloons. At that time, municipal government was considered an appendage of the Province and often dealt with the Province individually. This resulted in individual communities competing for the provincial government’s attention and funding. A lot has changed since then. Today, local governments have developed or-

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ganizations that give elected oﬃcials the ability to connect with each other. It also gave them the ability to jointly meet with all levels of government to advocate for the needs of communities large and small. These organizations include the Federation of Canadian municipalities, the Union of British Columbia municipalities, and local area associations that advocate for our communities. The Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities is the body that provides a strong voice for communities from Victoria to Port Hardy to Bella Coola and everything in between, including the smaller islands as well as the Sunshine Coast. All of these local government associations are a very important part of the manner in which elected oﬃcials are enabled to move forward with resolving the issues and concerns that arise within our communities. Each of these associations hold an annual conference and annual general meeting. The AVICC (Association of Vancouver Island & Coastal Communities) was held in early April and located in Campbell River. The venues change every year. The convention begins with

the usual business required by the Society’s Act. These conference follow the normal process of any registered society and include consideration/adoption of rules and procedures, consideration/ adoption of the previous year’s minutes, consideration/adoption of the previous year’s audited statements, and other business items as required. I would like to highlight a few of the items that were on the 2017 Convention Program. One thing that is very important to the Cowichan Valley Region is the construction of a new hospital. Our CAO was able to set up a tour of the new Campbell River hospital for the Cowichan Valley Elected Oﬃcials. This tour provided a plethora of information on hospital construction and the many processes associated with building new facilities, including concept design, business case, procurement, design and construction, transition and operational readiness planning and lastly, move-in and operations. The Region has thus far secured land for a new hospital in the north end of North Cowichan, with access from the Trans-Canada Carrot. Funding for

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the new facility has been put aside for more than 10 years and makes a new facility more than just a pipe dream. Delegates were also able to take a tour of the John Hart Generating Station and City of Campbell River Water Supply, including the John Hart and Elk Falls Water Quality Centres. If you have never been across the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge, I highly recommend that you take the time to enjoy the experience; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well worth a day trip. Workshops were held on forestry management, abandoned vessels, health networks, invasive species and physical literacy, to mention just a few. We were very lucky to have our Member of Parliament, Sheila Malcolmson, participating on the abandoned vessel panel, and I am certain that she will continue to ensure that this high priority item is pursued in parliament. There was an early morning session that provided an update on the Island Corridor Foundation and how it is progressing on the provision of a rail transportation on Vancouver Island. There were more than 30 resolutions submitted for discussion and debate. The issues included drafting a Vancouver Island Transportation Master Plan, social issues and housing, road maintenance in electoral areas, solid waste, infrastructure funding, and many more. The AVICC Executive will review the resolutions and take appropriate actions. This is just a glimpse of the work that is carried out at convention and throughout the entire year. I will continue to work diligently with the Association of Vancouver Island and Coast Communities on your behalf to ensure that your voice is heard.

CVRD Area G (Saltair) EASTER CELEBRATION Once again Saltair had the annual Easter Egg Hunt with about 60 children and parents and grandparents taking part. The demographics of Saltair appears to be changing to the way it used to be with younger families moving in with kids to take up residence in some of older bigger houses. Tim and Janet Evans manned the concession booth for their 23rd year which is really amazing. This and the Halloween events are organized by Dave Key and his group of volunteers with donations from businesses and some money from the Saltair Parks budget. COMMUNITY CENTRE OPEN FOR BUSINESS The goal of the Saltair Community Society is to use the Saltair Community Centre to promote, maintain, and expand interest in the historical, educational, cultural, economic and recreational endeavours of the Saltair Community. There are four classrooms available for rental and one large carpeted room is also available for larger meetings. It is open for business seven days a week. If you are interested in booking call Bill Cleary at 250-245-3738. Currently, the Society has an operating rental agreement with anchor tenant ILM Daycare. Saltair Quilting Group also rents a classroom weekly on Tuesday mornings and are busy creating a large quilt of Saltair points of interest for the Canada 150 Celebration. SALTAIR RATEPAYERS AGM MEETING HELD The Saltair and District Ratepayers held their annual general meeting on April 20th at the Saltair Community Centre. John Silins stepped down as president after several years on the board. Debbie Neil will be taking over role as president. John has been a strong volunteer in our community as well

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as at the Chemainus Food Bank and at his church. People like John strengthen communities. Diana MacTavish of the Ratepayers gave a detailed report on the potential Regional Recreation Referendum at the CVRD in the fall of 2018. The CVRD has formed a Regional Recreation Committee to study the situation to get a clearer vision of the situation and has a contractor to do a report. The CVRD could decide to go with the status quo where the costs would be the same or slightly higher. Or there are several other models out there that have been talked about over the years that would be very costly to Saltarians. The CVRD is doing some user studies to see who uses what facility to determine who should pay. More news to come over the next year. Debbie Neil reported on the working relationship of the community with the CVRD. There were some good things and some not so good things. Selling the old water board building and property on Chemainus Road is on hold while more consideration is given as to whether there is community use in the future or not.

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Debbie believes that good things come from activism and advocating for your community. She gave several examples. Tim Godau, the Saltair Parks Commission chairman, reported to the meeting on their eďŹ&#x20AC;orts of the last year. The great news, of course, was the announcement that the federal government granted $500,000 to the CVRD to complete the Trans Canada Trail through Saltair. The trail will run on the east side of the railway from Cook Street in Chemainus to the Stocking Creek Park section that

is already completed. Then there is a short span from North Watts Road to Glen Road in Ladysmith that will also be completed at the same time. Instrumental in getting the grant was the Saltair Cycling Group who did a traďŹ&#x192;c study on Chemainus Road to further emphasize the need for the trail for safety reasons. There were 29 volunteers. Regional Parks money from the CVRD will also be used to top up and to complete the trail. Completion date should be the fall of 2018.

History of the Martini After the fall of France and the evacuation at Dunkirk, Winston Churchill knew, unequivocally, that they were next on Hitler’s list. There it was, sandwiched between Goose Step Practice Tuesday and Garbage Day Thursday, in big bold capital letters. Invade Britain. It was Britain’s darkest hour and something had to be done, and it had to be done fast. It wasn’t the beaches, the streets and the ﬁelds Churchill was worried about defending; nor was it the women and children, certainly not the neighbour’s brat, who had nicknamed him Grumpy. No, it was something much more important, the very essence of Britain itself that demanded his attention. At stake was the country’s greatest asset: the vast reserves of gin stored in massive vats throughout the country, just waiting for some invading Nazi to feast on. Well that wasn’t going to happen, thanks to Churchill’s secret plan. But what’s a secret plan without a snappy name? For this, he relied on a select group of adolescent boys, later called the Baden Powell Irregulars, who took great delight in word play. You see, back then they didn’t have Led Zeppelin to play backwards, so they played with words instead. Winston Churchill became Winchill Churchston, which to adolescent boys is a hoot. Thanks to the BP Irregulars, Churchill’s secret plan became known as the Martini Project, simply because if you jiggled the letters around a little, then spelled it backwards, Martini became Ram It In, which was exactly what Churchill had in mind for the Nazis, who upon hearing “Martini” always scratched their heads, turned to each other, and then in a Hogan’s Heroes Herr Gumboot accent said, “Wot is dis Martini?” Churchill’s plan was simplicity itself. He would borrow a trick from the ancient Greeks, who got tired of making wine, only to have it consumed by the

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myriad of invading armies that were always dropping by, wanting to know why Greek salads always taste so good at a Greek restaurant, yet so boring when duplicated at home. To prevent invaders from drinking their wine and because, let’s face it, the Greeks enjoyed a good laugh, they infused the wine with resin from the island’s many pine trees, calling the resultant beverage Retsina, which was ancient Greek for “tastes like airplane glue,” and then hid in the bushes to snicker as the thirsty invaders gulped back the Retsina, only to snort it out their nose — not an unusual reaction to Retsina.

“At stake was the country’s greatest asset: the vast reserves of gin stored in massive vats throughout the country...” After the invaders left and the Greeks returned to their plumaged and pilfered villages, it was only a matter of time before someone tried the wine. The verdict? Once you got the first glass down, it wasn’t bad. “Goes with the food,” was heard, much to the chef’s chagrin. Apparently, the old adage was true: You don’t drink what you like, you like what you drink. This explains many alcoholic beverages, cheap rye and bourbon spring to mind. If it worked for the Greeks, Churchill thought, it should work for us. The question was what to put in the gin. Britain didn’t have the vast pine forests of Greece, so resin was out. Smoked oysters were suggested, but, thanks to wartime shortages, supplies were low. They decided on white vermouth, a beverage that no one ever ordered mainly because it tasted like stale cat urine. It was felt a mixture of one-third vermouth to two-thirds gin would deter even the thirstiest Nazi. To finish the Nazis off, green olives would be added, not only because they have the flavour profile of a brined lacrosse ball, but because of the salt. Nothing kills a beverage quicker than salt, which is why cooking wine is salted. If it weren’t, the cooks would drink it. But alas, like many of the outrageous weapons and plans, which sprung from the fertile British mind, the Martini project went unused. Only one large vat was

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subjected to vermouth and olives. But funny thing, what happened in Greece happened in Britain. Some adventurous male dipped his glass into the affected gin. Much to everyone’s surprise, after a pint or six of Guinness, if you had enough internal fortitude and maybe lost your taste buds in a hunting accident, it was actually drinkable. (After Guinness, anything tastes good.) Martinis caught on slowly, but experienced a big surge of popularity thanks to James Bond. But even Bond wasn’t tough enough for a classic martini. Like everyone else with a brain in their head, he started ordering his martinis drier and drier, which eliminated the horrid vermouth. The olive, of course, was flung across the room at Odd Job. Before you could say “watered-down drink,” people were drinking martinis on the rocks, the melting ice and coolness robbing the gin of its pungency. What was a test of manhood soon became Howdy Doody time. To verify some of the this story’s details, Slightly Corked tracked down the sole remaining Baden Powell Irregular, Peter Bowen Something-or-other, affectionately known as “Retep,” Peter backwards, (I told you they were irregular) who considers today’s martinis, not martinis at all, merely a concoction of vodka, fruit juice and liqueurs served in a martini glass. According to Bowen Something-or-other, if it tastes good, it’s not a real Martini. Retep maintains using the word Martini to describe these modern beverages is fraudulent. When asked what he would call them, his suggestions were less than charitable. “The Foo Foo, the Powder Puff, the Panty Waist and, of course, the Herman, that would be the Peewee Herman.” We left Retep converting these names into Baden Powell speak. The oof oof, the ffup redwop, on and on it went. Historian’s note: Later in the war, the Martini Project often became confused with the Manhattan Project (the atom bomb). Both were named after cocktails, and you could get bombed on either. Perhaps a safer bet is this excellent red from France, Bastide Miraflors, $22.99. Well worth trying. Delbert Horrocks is a co-proprietor at Mahle House Restaurant. Follow him at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com

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Stephen and Tara Wilson, Mahle House

Rustic farmhouse The Mahle House Restaurant has a fresh new look inside. Owners Stephen and Tara Wilson say that the renovations have been “better than we had hoped for, we’ve been planning and preparing for this for quite some time.” “We didn’t want to take the house too far away from its heritage. The Mahle house has been a landmark of Cedar since 1904. In 1983 it opened as the Mahle House Restaurant under Tara’s mother Maureen Loucks and uncle Delbert Horrocks and has been serving up ﬁne dining in a casual country atmosphere ever since. They wanted to keep a rustic farmhouse feel to it. The end result is a brighter more spacious dining area. A new lounge area serves those who just want to drop in for an appetizer and a drink. The star attraction is the use of wood throughout the dining room. The tables are all custom made from 90-year-old old growth timbers. One of Stephen’s favourite features is the bar top and drink rail made of live edge maple slabs.

“It is beautiful wood local wood, crafted 200 yards away from here.” The glass rack, all the shelving in the bar and the bathrooms are all locally sourced maple. Wood came from Kevin Trotter’s Discovery Woodlot and Sawmill in Cedar. The contractor was Tobias Marcoux. “We couldn’t be any happier with the way it turned out,” said Stephen. Each table is unique. There are nail holes and burn marks in the old timbers. “We didn’t want to cover that up with tablecloths. The floral table cloths have gone into storage. We’re happy to freshen the look but some things will remain the same.” “The Mahle House will always be orange,” says Tara. And you can count on them for an exceptional dining experience. “We are always updating and experimenting with the menu seasonally but the favourites Porcupine Prawns, and Calamari remain. The new lounge space will encourage people to be comfortable, to come and just have an appetizer and a glass of wine, says Tara. “Historically we’ve been thought of as fine dining and we pride ourselves on that, but we consider ourselves as casual fine dining so don’t be hesitant to drop by. “We were a little worried that there would be some people not liking the change but it’s been really well received with lots of enthusiasm, “says Stephen. “That’s been really gratifying because we put a lot of energy and effort into this.” “The whole experience was really lovely for us because it came together exactly the way we hoped and even better than we expected,” says Tara.

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Celebrating Canada 150 The 150th birthday celebrations of the founding of Canada is a good time to reflect on the events and people that have made Canada what is today. There are many great accomplishments that Canadians can take pride in, things that make us one of the most respected countries in the world. Either native born or not, Canadians love this country and what it stands for. One of the reasons is that, over these past 150 years, we have welcomed and encouraged people from all over the world to join us, making Canada the country we love. The community of Ladysmith, and its immediate surrounding area, is much like the rest of Canada. It has been shaped by many ethnic and cultural groups, attributing to who we are today. A walk through our town graveyard reflects this diversity. You will find graves of immigrants from Scotland, England Wales, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Slovakia, Croatia and Finland, to name a few, but they were not the only ones who shaped who we have become. Many others who

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were not part of our western organized religions are not buried in our graveyard. The graves of the Chinese, Japanese and others that didn’t belong to theses western religions, along with members of our First Nations community, are interred elsewhere. This is not to say that they were not an important part in shaping both our community and our country, for they were equally as important. A quick look back at our history, we can see the contributions all of our citizens have made. When we do so, we have to give thanks to those pioneers who traveled from various parts of the world to create new lives for themselves and for their families. We have to give thanks to the entrepreneurs that were willing to risk everything to create our community and create jobs for others. We have to thank those that served in the numerous wars Canada fought in. We have to thanks those who fought for better working and living conditions for our working public. We have to give thanks to the Aboriginal peoples for sharing their knowledge of this new land and supporting our ﬁrst settlers. We have to thank all those that have immigrated to Canada in the last 150 years or more for enriching our culture and prosperity. Here in Ladysmith, we have our share of people who have or are making Ladysmith a better place to live. Some of our residents have been or are nationalacclaimed sports ﬁgures and union leaders, as well as internationally-recognized artists, singers and First Nations artists,

including an internationally-known actress and animal protection activist. Unfortunately, over these 150 years, some government leaders did things that we would like to take back. Today, we recognize and acknowledge the many injustices that have occurred to many of our citizens, especially to the Aboriginal peoples and other ethnic minorities. Over these years our government discriminated against many of the Chinese immigrants that built our railroads and worked in numerous industries by imposing a head tax upon many of them. Our government imprisoned many Japanese people and conﬁscated much of their properties during the Second World War. In 1914, our government sent back a ship with 340 Sikhs, 24 Muslims and 12 Hindus that wanted to immigrate to Canada and at least 19 were sent to their death as a result of this action. We can not and should not forget about the residential schools and their treatment of Aboriginal children and the separation of Aboriginal families. Our governments have rightly apologized to each of these groups for these injustices and are working towards dealing with everyone as an equals, and with respect. It is time for us not to dwell on the mistakes of the past, but we have to ensure that we don’t make the same mistakes again. Therefore it is my birthday wish that we as Canadians take this time make sure that we use this 150th anniversary to move on and work together to ensure a better Canada. At least that’s as I see it.

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New society forms to protect Yellow Point forest BY JAIN ALCOCK-WHITE The Yellow Point Community Forest Society (YPCFS) has formed to protect an ecologically important undeveloped local 60 acre forest from logging. The property has recently been acquired by a numbered company controlled by Coastland Wood Industries (Coastland), a producer of veneer and round wood products. Coastland has estimated that logging the property will provide their mill with wood ﬁbre for one to two days worth of production activity. The 60 acre property is located in the centre of Yellow Point and can be accessed from the end of Long Lake Road on the south and Whiting Way on the northeast. This area is important because it provides catch basins in the form of groundwater and surface water wetlands that feed the Yellow Point aquifer which is considered to be at risk. Community water concerns have been increasing for many years. The forest is a Coastal Douglas-ﬁr/ Dull Oregon Grape ecosystem and home to the highest number of species at risk in BC, many of which are ranked globally as imperiled or critically imperiled. According to ecologist Herb Hammond the landscape of this property is “extremely ecologically sensitive to disturbance”. The forest is also a vital component

of the Yellow Point Ecological Corridor Plan (Plan). The goal of the Plan is to connect Wildwood Eco-Forest with the Yellow Point Bog Ecological Reserve and Yellow Point Park. An additional 10 acre parcel on Whiting Way has been dedicated and lands to the north connecting the 60 acres to Wildwood will be linked in the future. It is hoped that another extension can be made as far as Hemer Provincial Park. The Yellow Point Ecological Corridor is in the heart of Yellow Point and the heart of the corridor is the 60 acres. One day the Yellow Point Ecological Corridor could be the Stanley Park of Yellow Point. This is an opportunity to create a great legacy for the future. In a bid to save the 60 acre forest, a member of the Yellow Point community made a formal offer to pay the Coastland numbered company more than their purchase price and expenses. This offer provides the Coastland numbered company the opportunity to preserve this land without incurring a financial loss. The

offer guaranteed that all development of the 60 acres would be not for profit, would create no more than three lots covenanted to limit land clearing and the residential footprint, and would dedicate approximately a third for parkland, creating an ecological corridor between Wildwood Eco-Forest, Yellow Point Bog Ecological Reserve, Whiting Way Park and Yellow Point Park. The numbered company has allowed the purchase offer to expire. YPCFS is asking that the company spare the 60 acres and forego the profit they expect to generate by logging and subdividing the land. Clint Parcher, Vice President of Coastland Fibre Supply has stated that while no decision has been made the forest would most likely be logged and subdivided. The only logging the YPCFS group anticipates involves the residential footprints and access roads for the three lots proposed in the not for profit purchase offer. The harvesting of timber as a

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source of revenue to offset the purchase price plays no significant role in their plan. Hammond has emphasized that “logging in this area could easily create erosion and sources of siltation that would damage downstream water features, including wetlands.” The YPCFS has thoroughly researched the 60 acres and has become conversant with all applicable regulations and bylaws, particularly the Riparian Area Regulations, the RDN Area A Official Community Plan and the RDN Development Permit process. It will be closely monitoring all activities on the property. Ted Gullison, of the Save Lantzville Forest group recently stated “… as a society we’re realizing that intact forests that are close to a lot of people have a higher value than turning them into 2x4’s.” Logging this 60 acre property will have consequences that extend far beyond the property lines. The company has promised to keep the YPCFS informed of their plans and to answer all questions. The YPCFS remains hopeful that a mutually agreeable solution can be found although there is a mounting level of frustration and concern . The 60 acre forest is a small but very important part of the Yellow Point aquifer and adjoining parklands. The YPCFS hopes that everyone concerned will stand with them and help convince Coastland Wood Industries and the associated numbered company to do the right thing. For more information or to get involved please email janealcockwhite@gmail.com or visit their facebook group called Yellow Point Community Forest Society.

MAY 1 – 6 1–14, “2 Pianos 4 Hands,” Chemainus Festival Theatre, www.chemainusfestival.ca 1, 9:15am, Ladies Coffee League at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex 1866 Cedar Rd 2, 7:30pm, Ron James “Pedal to the Metal” at the Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo 4,7pm, Saltair Water Community Meeting. At the Chemainus Seniors Centre 5, 7:30pm, Fiddelium at the Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo 5 & 6 Wheaty Men’s Fastball Tourney League at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex 1866 Cedar Rd. 6, Shots for Kids – Juvenile Diabetes Fundraiser at the Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157. 6, 8:30am to 1pm, the Morrell Nature Sanctuary plant sale and raffle, 787 Nanaimo Lakes Rd., Nanaimo, 250-753-7866, morrell@shawbiz.ca) 6, 9am until sold out, Annual Garden Club Plant Sale, wide variety of plants, used equipment, raffle at door, master gardeners on-site, Aggie Hall, 1110 1st Ave. 6, 10am to 5pm, Nanaimo Ballroom Dance Society hosts Island Fantasy Ball 2017 — 25th Anniversary Celebration! Beban Park, 3200 Bowen Rd., Nanaimo

7, 2pm, Chemainus Classical Concerts: Pianist Bruce Vogt’s “Ultimate Visions,” $20/$5 adv., St Michael’s Church, Chemainus, 250-748-8383, wwwChemainusClassicalConcerts.ca

17, 11:30 to 1pm, Soup and Sandwich $6, entertainment by the Chemainus Community Band, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus

10, 2 to 4pm, “Early Music in Ladysmith, B.C., 1902–1912,” by Brian Bornhold, book signing at Salamander Books, 533 First Ave., 250-245-4726

17, 1pm, Oceanside Grandmothers to Grandmothers for Tea & mini-Fashion Show “A Common Thread” at Quality Resort Bayside, 240 Dogwood St., Parksville, tickets $20 at Cranky Dog in Parksville or Arbutus Fashions in Qualicum Beach

10, 7 to 9pm, Nanaimo Horticultural Society Meeting, Brechin United Church, Nanaimo 12, 7pm, The Deaf Aids perform at In the Bean Time, 18 High St., Ladysmith 12, 10am to 9pm, Nanaimo Pottery Co-op Mother’s Day Sale, Country Club Centre, 3200 North Island Highway, Nanaimo 12–13, 10am to 5pm, Crofton Art Group Show & Sale, featured will be beautiful paintings, greeting cards, jewellery and pottery all created by our very talented artists, refreshments served, Crofton Seniors Centre, 1507 Joan Ave., Crofton 13–June 9, Warmland Calligraphers Exhibition at the 49th Café, 49th Parallel Grocery, Ladysmith 13, 12-2pm, Ladysmith Fraternal Order of Eagles Mother’s Day Tea, 921 1st Ave. Tickets $5, Children under 6 Free. 13, 10am to 6pm, Nanaimo Pottery Coop Mother’s Day Sale, Country Club Centre, 3200 North Island Highway, Nanaimo

6,1pm, Celebration of World Labyrinth Day, Bethlehem Centre, 2371 Arbot Rd., Nanaimo bethlehemcentre.com or 250-754-3254)

13, 1:30 to 3pm, Mother’s Day Tea at St. Andrew’s United church, 311 Fitzwilliam St., Nanaimo, tickets $8, contact Helen Hunter at 250-753-2846 or the church 250-753-1924

6, 7pm, Tidesmen Barbershop Chorus present “HARMONY at the PORT,” Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo

13, 7:30 to 10pm, Ken Hamm Blues concert at Cranberry Community Fire Hall, tickets $20, Donna by phone/text 250-816-5172

7–13

13, 7pm to 9pm, Open Mic Night at the Riot Brewing Co., Chemainus

7, 10am to 5pm, Nanaimo Ballroom Dance Society hosts Island Fantasy Ball 2017 — 25th Anniversary Celebration! Beban Park, 3200 Bowen Rd., Nanaimo

13 &14 Mixed Slow Pitch Play at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex 1866 Cedar Rd.

7, 10am, 2nd Annual LPS Elemental 5-km Walk/Run, Ladysmith Primary School and Holland Creek, www.veindurance.net/ladysmith. elemental.5k

14, 2:30pm, Island Soul Choir celebrates “with love “at the Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo

7, 3pm, Yellow Point Singers presents “Canada 150: A Choral Mosaic,” tickets $10 at the door, children under 14 free, Oceanview Community Church, 381 Davis Rd., Ladysmith

14 – 20

14, Mother’s Day Brunch at the Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Road, 250-245-5175

18, 9:30am to 2pm, Arrowsmith Needlearts Guild, stitch-in on the first Thursday of each month and meeting with presentation or class and “show and tell” is on the third Thursday, Qualicum Beach Civic Centre 18, 7pm, Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club monthly meeting, in the lower room, Frank Jameson Community Centre 18–20, 7:30pm, “Old Love” Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 19, 20 &21 Mixed Ortho Tourney at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex 1866 Cedar Rd. 20, 5 to 8pm, Birthday Party and pot luck dinner, bar and entertainment, Chemainus Seniors DropIn Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus 20, 7pm, Chemainus Sketch Group Gala evening “Look At Us Now!” Art Show, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery

21 – 27 21, 11am to 4pm, Chemainus Sketch Group Gala evening “Look At Us Now!” Art Show, demonstration by member artist Astrid Notte, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery 21,2pm, Spring Concert, featuring the Centre Belles and the Centremen’s choir, cost $10, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre 22, 11am to 4pm, Chemainus Sketch Group Gala evening “Look At Us Now!” Art Show, demonstration by member artist MaryAnne Gerwing, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery 23, 11am to 4pm, Chemainus Sketch Group demonstration by member artist Betty Peebles, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery

15, 7 to 9pm, Island Stitchery Guild, Christ Community Church, 2221 Bowen Rd., Nanaimo

23, 7pm, Ladysmith Camera Club, “Approaches to Creativity in Photography,” with Dennis Ducklow, Hardwick Hall, High St. at 3rd Ave., Ladysmith, www.LadysmithCameraClub.com

17, 9:30 to 11am, Blood Pressure Clinic at the Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre

24, 9:15am, Ladies Coffee League at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex 1866 Cedar Rd

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24, 11am to 4pm, Chemainus Sketch Group demonstration by member Lauren Spillsbury, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery 24, 6:30pm, the Cedar Community Association Annual General Meeting, Cedar Community Hall 25, 11am to 4pm, Chemainus Sketch Group Gala evening “Look At Us Now!” Art Show, demonstration by member artist Pat Smith, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery 25, 2pm, “Old Love” Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 25, 1-3:30pm, National Public Works Week. Ladysmith Public Works 330 6th Ave. Fun for the family, cake, hotdogs and displays 26, 11am to 4pm, Chemainus Sketch Group demonstration by member artist Flo Watson, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery 26, 6:30pm, Friends of Nanaimo Jazz Society presents 12th Annual Jazz Affair, Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo

MONDAYS 10am to noon, Seniors Drop In at the Ladysmith Resource Centre, 630 2nd Avenue, Ladysmith, 250-245-3079 4:45pm, Bingo Mondays, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 7pm, Cribbage Night, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca Mixed Slow Pitch – Night Time Play at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex 1866 Cedar Rd. TUESDAYS 7pm, Texas Holdem, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca 7:30 to 9pm, Ladysmith Toastmasters’, upper level at the Ladysmith Resource Centre, 630 2nd Ave.

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26, 7:30pm, “Old Love,” Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd.

$15, at the door $20, Aggie Hall, Ladysmith

27, 10am to 4pm, Ladysmith Maritime Society Heritage Boat Festival, Ladysmith Maritime Dock

28, Open House at Wildwood Eco-Forest. For more information, contact EIS at admin@ ecoforestry.ca

27, 11am to 4pm, Chemainus Sketch Group demonstration by Sue Skene, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery

29, 9:15am, Ladies Coffee League at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex 1866 Cedar Rd

27, 7pm (doors), 8pm (show), Lisa Marshall aka “Tina Turner,” all tickets $25, all welcome, Ladysmith Legion Branch 171, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca 27, 7:30pm, “Old Love,” Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 27, 7pm, Ladysmith Fraternal Order of Eagles Installation Dance, 921 1st Avenue Band Switch, Tickets $15. Includes dinner.

28– 31 28, 9am to 5pm, the 20th Ladysmith Rotary Garden Tour Show and Sale, advance tickets

June 1-3 2, 5 to 7pm, “Feast of the Pirates,” a unique Dine on the Dock Experience at the Ladysmith Community Marina, details will be posted on the LMS Facebook Site 3, 10am to 4pm, Ladysmith Kids Pirates Day — PIRATES! — Bring the family for a great day at the Ladysmith Maritime Society Docks 6, 9am Annual Garden Club Plant Sale 12, 7pm, The Deaf Aids 20, 7pm, Chemainus Sketch Group Gala

10:15am to 2:15pm, Born Healthy at the Ladysmith Resource Centre, 630 2nd Avenue, Ladysmith, 250-245-3079 (Coordinator, Kate Wilton; Outreach Worker, Bev Boese)

FRIDAYS

5 to 9pm, Bingo at St. Mary’s Church Hall, 1135 Fourth Ave., Ladysmith

4 to 6pm, Meat Draws, Friday in the lounge, Ladysmith Legion Branch 171, 621 First Ave., www. rcl171.ca

7pm, Darts, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca

10am to noon, Seniors Drop In at the Ladysmith Resource Centre, 630 2nd Avenue, Ladysmith, 250-245-3079

Mixed Slow Pitch – Night Time Play at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex 1866 Cedar Rd.

9:30 to 11am, Muffin mornings - Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org

Music Trivia and Karaoke at the Cranberry Arms, 1604 Cedar Rd.

Mixed Ortho - Night Time Play at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex 1866 Cedar Rd. Saturday

THURSDAYS

9am, Honeymoon Bay Market starts every Saturday from May 13 to Oct. 7, 2017

11:30am, Soup and Sandwich in the lounge, Thursdays 2nd and 4th of each month, by donation, Ladysmith Legion Branch 171, 621 First Ave.

WEDNESDAYS

7pm, Trivia Night with Par 4, bring your team and challenge the Legion Team in the lounge, all welcome, Ladysmith Legion Branch 171, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca

9:30 to 11am, Muffin mornings, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org

1 Field – Men’s Fastball & 1 Field – Mixed Slow Pitch at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex 1866 Cedar Rd.

Mixed Ortho - Night Time Play at the Wheatsheaf Sports Complex 1866 Cedar Rd.

10:15am to 12:15pm, Dad’s Drop In at the Ladysmith Resource Centre, 630 2nd Avenue, Ladysmith, 250-245-3079 3 to 5pm, Meat Draws, Saturday in the lounge, Ladysmith Legion Branch 171, 621 First Ave. SUNDAYS Cedar Farmer’s Market at the Crow & Gate, 2313 Yellowpoint Rd. – Open Mother’s Day to the end of October

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EASY DOES IT FITNESS.CA. For Beginners and Beyond. Hundreds of exercises at hand. 100% Professionally Supervised. Drop in anytime between 11am and 5pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays for free orientation.

FOR SALE 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. GARAGE SALE in Ladysmith furniture, antiques, etc. Dealers welcome. For more information, 250245-8950. 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. 250-716-0001. WANTED RETIRED? Carpenter to convert part of a farm building to a nice chicken house. Helper supplied. 250-716-0001. GARDENER/HANDYMAN WANTED approximately one day per week for new 1/2acre garden. Successful applicant will work under supervision of Master Gardener. Reply with resume detailing experience and two references. Box 6-2, Ladysmith, B.C. V9G 1Y4. 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. Web content, books, resumes, documents, prepare eBooks. Fiction or nonfiction. For more information, email editican@gmail.com. BARNACLE BILL’S CHARTERS. Fishing, and sightseeing. Call 250-210-0787 or 250-245-4185.

MAY 2017

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. HOUSE CLEANING. Fast, Efficient, Reliable and Fully Insured. References. 250-245-5507. 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. VIDEO PRODUCTION services, from script to screen, Affordable rates, editor@take5.ca. HEALTH & BEAUTY JACLYNN COTTRELL REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPY. Clinical focus on women’s health. $100 for one hour. $60 for 30 minutes. Available evenings. Located across from Friesen’s on York Rd in Cedar. 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. YELLOWPOINT BODY WORKS. Book four consecutive Relaxation Massages for $50 ea. (reg. $65.). Other treatments, Reiki, Exfoliating Rubs and Hot Wax. Call for appointment and brochure 250-618-8218.

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, gutter cleaning. Prompt, courteous, reliable service for your home or business. Contact Terry at newlifeyardwork@gmail.com or call 250668-8383. QUALITY RENOVATIONS. Big or small. 25 yrs. exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate, call Lars 250-616-1800. 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. THE HAPPY GARDENER. Weeding, digging, raking, cutting back, etc. I also do odd jobs. Cheerful and conscientious. Call David 250-6189217. ISLAND GARDEN SCAPES.CA for all seasons, from lawn cutting & maintenance to garden design, redesign or cleanups. Contact us today. 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. RAISED GARDEN BEDS, railings, wheelchair ramps, decks, benches, woodsheds, greenhouses, painting, carpentry, custom shelving. Enhance your enjoyment of the home and yard you love. Namaste Home Improvements, 250-245-2751 (see display ad). MAKE IT NICE qualified, experienced gardener available for private, residential gardens. Please call 250-754-9346. 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 PETS PROFESSIONAL PET CARE SERVICE. Leash ’em & walk ’em with Marlena. Insured and bonded. Animal First Aid and CPR. Service for all pets including dog walking, home care visits, overnight with pet in my home and much more. As my love is yours! Call 250-246-3394. TOO CRAZY BIRDY HOTEL. Now three locations: Victoria, Cedar, and Comox Valley. Travel with peace of mind, parrot boarding in loving settings. Budgies to macaws. $7, $14, $18 for sml, md, lrg. www.toocrazybirdyhotel.com. Diana and Kip 250722-2201. 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 talktotheanimals.ca 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. www.lynnsseniorcare.com. Call 250-245-3391. TAKE 5 Classifieds work! Phone 250-245-7015 or place online take5.ca

TAKE 5

“A good farmer is nothing more nor less than a handy man (or woman) with a sense of humus,” - E. B. White

Me Me Me Me Me! Me me me me meeee, as in the song, or at least the prelude to the me-lody which finds me most on fine spring days, when nobody’s around. Not that there’s many folks around out here on the farm, but the self-conscious me-me-me-me knows I’m never gonna make it as a songster. I can hummmm a mean tune, mind you. But that makes my lips tingle and itchy. And it’s hard to scratch your lips. Try it sometime. It just makes my lips more, well, itchy. So I don’t hummm all that mmmmuch. I do like the hummer birds tho’, even when they do those greased-lightning take-offs, vertical-like when they hear me humming, or singing for that matter. Or just looking at them. Sometimes kids in the supermarket are like that too, when they see me turn down the aisle, clutching at mom’s leg and hiding behind the cart until I go past. And I’m not even humming then, most

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of the time anyway. Though I do find myself humming occasionally, when I’m not even thinking about it. And then I wonder, what’s that about? Like, can I really be that happy? And that puts me off on a tangent, which sometimes finds me back at home without getting the groceries I’ve been sent for. And then I’m in trouble. But that’s okay, I’m happily troubled. And I try not to even question that. Y’know, you go down too many slippery slopes, and where do you find yourself? Me. That is me me me me finds me wandering across a field, or out in the woods with the dogs, singing. Not like an actual song, because I hardly remember a whole song’s lyrics. Sorry ‘bout that you rockstar musicians, but it’s the simple tunes that come to mind and get me going. Y’know, old boy scout songs like the Happy Wanderer ... “I love to go awandering, Along the mountain track, And as I go, I love to sing, My knapsack on my back...” And that’s about all the words I remember before I start to make words up. And since I don’t like itchy lips, as you already know, I often go for the wandering Laaaa ...La, la la, La, la la ...La La La La La La La, la la” ...and so on. And then I wrap it up with “my knapsack on my back”, even though I don’t usually have on a knapsack, y’know. But that’s a song’s way - you don’t need to be true to it, be good at it, or even know the words. Just hummm, or in my case Laa. And Laa-ing can really get you places. Your feet pick up the pace, and the dogs can really start circling if you burst out into like a despicable Scarpia from Puccini’s opera classic, Tosca. You know, like a Laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa you might do

in the shower, but there you are with no one around and you’re out in the woods. Opera’s a great thing to get you outside! And it keeps away the bears. At least I’ve never come across one when I’m in full mezzo splendour, or perhaps descending dramatically into the valley of the bass-baritone, then to go all out for the Verdi baritone of Macbeth, a riveting and splendiferous moment when all sounds in the world stop and listen in awe. For me that’s usually followed by the dogs howling and running around barking and biting at each other, or me, and I have to stop. Jackie usually doesn’t allow me to do a sing-a-long with CBC opera Sundays, at least not when she’s around. I think the dogs secretly like it though, they’re just not sure what to do. Whether I’m in pain, y’know? But that’s what the backwoods, and ﬁelds and farms are for, right? Get out there and explore, feel the energy and let that inner voice out, don’t hold back, and just imagine how great you would have been if you hadn’t quit those singing lessons when you were ten. Deep down inside I know I would have been the greatest, most heroic powerful sword-swinging Haldentenor that Siegfried’s Ring Cycle ever heard. I know it! And just knowing that gets me wandering ...or at least out the door when Jackie’s home and the urge is upon me Me me Meeee!!! La La La Laurie & Ja Ja Ja Jackie are the baa, baaa, baaa black-sheep members of the faux-opera circle of clandestine farmers who sing, but usually don’t admit it. Otherwise well-mannered and exemplary citizens who’s good humoured ways see them a-welcoming the wanderers of the world with open arms and a song, humm or