TAKE 5 May 2024

Letters

Letter from Stz'uminus Member

Ed: Note: The Letter in the April/TAKE 5 edition by Stz'uminus Nation band member Robert Elliott received a lot of comments. Following are some of the letters in response.

My compliments to Robert E. Elliott for his astute observations on reconciliation voiced to Doug White (MAY 2024). He correctly pointed out that “Truth and Reconciliation” has become meaningless phrase used by all levels of government in Canada to justify programs that often provide neither truth nor reconciliation. As Mr. Elliott notes, the recent transfer of the water lease at Ladysmith Harbour has the disgustingly predictable stench of the “rot” of reconciliation. The entire “deal” lacked transparency and ignored the wishes of both common Indigenous and non-Indigenous citizens. Using “reconciliation” to justify cancelling a legal contract with the non-profit Ladysmith Maritime Society and turning the taxpayer funds over to a development corporation certainly has caused more division than unity in our community. The “dream” of making Ladysmith Harbour a world famous stop for the rich and famous has meant average citizens of Ladysmith can no longer afford to keep their boats there.

I encourage you, Mr. Elliott, to keep trying to fi nd someone to help you get the answers you seek to the legitimate audit questions you ask of the Coastal Salish Development Corporation. I wish you luck.

As elections loom at many levels of government, we are bombarded with political advertising ad nauseam: promises of funding for housing, for seniors, for teen mental health, for addiction treatment centres, for task force studies on use of illicit

drugs in hospitals so that all hospitals in BC will have the same rules and on and on and on … Please remember, governments do not produce any product that can be sold for cash to fund these promises. Governments consume cash. We, the taxpayers, are going to be required to fund their promises. — L. Ruth Vines

I want to thank you for printing the letter by Mr. Elliott. It is an excellent letter that he has written, and I hope that Mr. White will bring it up with the premier. I hope some good comes from it. The template for reconciliation that is established by the situation with the Town of Ladysmith, Ladysmith Maritime Society and Coast Salish Development Corp are horrible. As a resident of Ladysmith, I felt completely abandoned by my civic officials and my MLA. The way this happened does not benefit the citizens of the town or the band. — Noel McKenna

I offer a brief note of support for the letter of Robert Elliot posted in MAY 2024 edition of TAKE 5 Magazine. His words are both succinct and eloquent. I admire his courage to write and post

this. I know Mr. Elliot will endure some sort of ostracization for his effort. In my lifetime of working in First Nation communities, I have repeatedly observed the practices he describes. I concur with all he says. Unfortunately, being white precludes me from writing a similar narrative as Mr. Elliot and being heard. We need folks like him to speak out. Human beings, no matter what their ethnicity, are all highly vulnerable to the contagion of greed and power. It is our nature and has always been so. We are seeing a repeat of the same weary story unfolding around the Ladysmith Maritime Society. I project ahead a few years and see nothing but gloom unless there are some paradigm shifts in motivation and practice. Everyone in this debacle is being played as a pawn in the abstract games played by our political leaders. We need more people like Mr. Elliot who can provide enlightenment to most folks who don’t understand the rest of the story. — Fred Bailey

In the April issue we read an impassioned letter from Robert Edmond Elliott. In the month prior we learned of a

request, by Adam Seymour along with 120 co-signers, for an audit of the Coast Salish Development Corporation.

RoseAnne Archibald claimed ‘corruption within the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is the most widely known secret in Indian country’. This spoken as she was being ousted last year from her position of AFN National Chief.

How much of this is true? This call for an audit seems like an opportunity to set the record straight, at least in this little part of Canada.

If Mr. Elliott does not see action from Doug White (Special Counsel to the Premier on Reconciliation) then, perhaps, Doug Routley could be persuaded to intercede on his behalf. - Peter Ordynec

Tell Me More Correction

I just read the winner of “Tell me more!” contest (TAKE 5/March 2024). I don’t know who Matilyn Hauton is. Try Madeline Hayton.

Letters do not necessarily represent the opinion of TAKE 5 or its affiliates.

Parking Issues

BY RUSSELL BARLING

Every business owner on the south end of First Ave knows there is a parking problem in our downtown. It is also spreading south to the environs of Dogwood Road. Owners in the retail space know the lack of parking is one of the biggest impediments to the commercial success of their businesses; foot traffic, a major contributor to sales, doesn’t happen without shoppers having a convenient place to park their cars.

Further south, ask any resident in the 100 to 200 blocks of First Ave or the 100 to 200 blocks of Dogwood or Forward Road if there is a parking problem and you’ll get a resounding “hell ya.” In fact, when the Town recently asked for comments on whether a Special Event Permit should be given to the Bayview Pub, the top concern among the 34 of the 35 homeowner respondents living within 100 metres of the pub was parking; that and the noise.

Folks, I’ve spoken to say there’s been a parking problem in Ladysmith for more than 30 years. Yet the lead story in the April 4 edition of the Ladysmith Chronicle had the mayor and councillors lining up to tell us that parking isn’t the problem in the downtown core; it is the lack of enforcement of existing park-

ing bylaws.

So, I guess we were all wrong. But you need to ask yourself why Council might now say Ladysmith doesn’t have a parking problem. They cite the fi ndings of a recent taxpayer-funded study that flew a few drones over the town and identi fied a couple of instances when folks overstayed their two-hour limit.

For some on Council, this was a better way to “yield a more accurate indication of the parking situation” than, say, talking to the business owners.

First, having spent more than two decades advising the corporate sector

on “messaging,” I know that studies, through their deliverables, are too often manipulated to produce the desired result by the people paying for the study.

So, why would mayor and Council want us to believe parking isn’t an issue? For one, stepping up parking enforcement will extract more revenue from our pockets. But there is a much bigger issue at play.

By now, you’ve all seen the news that Council would like to build a new city hall for themselves as part of a complex featuring “100 new rental units” in the downtown core. That location wouldn’t sound very sensible if the study confi rmed that there has always been a parking problem here, would it?

Sometimes you just need to trust what you see. If Council seems to have no plan for where the high-density residential development we need should be located, it’s because they don’t. If it seems like our water issues are intensifying each year, it is because they are. If it seems like there is a lack of meaningful public consultation on the issues that will most impact us, it is because there is. And if it seems like we have a parking problem, it is because we do. Trust your eyes.

Pawsitively Walking for Dog Guides

BY CAROL MARTIN

The Ladysmith Lions invite the public to come out for their fi rst Ladysmith “Walk for Dog Guides,” on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at Forrest Field in Ladysmith.

Organized by the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides, this annual event serves both as a celebration of these extraordinary partnerships and as a vital fundraiser. Communities Canada-wide come together to raise funds for the training and placement of dog guides free of charge. The programs cover canine vision, hearing, service, seizure response, autism assistance, diabetic alert and facility support. All specialized in their ability to navigate their handler to a more independent life. Each dog guide brings with them $35,000 of training.

Participating in the walk goes beyond a leisurely stroll; it’s a pawsitively symbolic gesture of solidarity with those who rely on these incredible animals and being part of our families. It’s an opportunity for individuals, families and communities to unite in making a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Our goal this year is to raise not only awareness but also $1.6 million, going towards doubling of efforts to bring dog

guides into our communities as working dogs.

As we lace up our shoes and leash our furry friends for the “Walk for Dog Guides,” let us walk pawsitively with purpose, knowing that with each step, we are helping to empower individuals and transform lives — one paw at a time.

Registration is at 10:30 a.m.; walk at 11 a.m. Think about dressing up your dog for our fashion contest. There will be family activities and fun events throughout, photo selfies and prizes. People can register online or donate online at www.walkfordogguides.com.

Corvettes and Murals

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend in Chemainus!

Corvettes and Murals | May 18, Show & Shine 8am-3pm Waterwheel Park, May 19, Autocross 9am-3pm Fuller Lake Arena. Join us for a celebration of the iconic Corvette. From vintage classics to cutting-edge models, there's something for everyone to enjoy at the Show & Shine or the Autocross events! corvettesandmurals.ca

Cleanup at Transfer Beach

Pemberton Holmes Realtor Shannon Norris was inspired to organize a cleanup one day when she was sitting at slag point with her dog and three-year-old.

“We were picking up glass and metal, and I thought to myself this activity was actually kind of enjoyable. At that time, the upper shoreline also had some large piles of refuse.” Shannon made a post, and with 100 plus replies, she decided to schedule a cleanup for a few hours on the weekend. So, with Public Works pitching in with a few bags, gloves and a garbage pickup, the good Samaritans got to work.

Shannon hopes her experience will lead to others initiating community cleanups throughout the year. “There wasn’t much work to plan it. I put up a sign with instructions (where to put garbage, where bags and gloves were found), and the rest was basically selfdirected.”

Shineolas Benefit Concert for Cedar United Church

For years, the Cedar United Church rented out the basement for a preschool,

but when Donna Thommasson retired,

approached the

about using the space. “And we were delighted to do so,” recalls Kate Lowe. But the 100-plus-year-old church was due for an update.

“Unfortunately, that led to a fortune in renovations and upgrades, under the guidance of Ian Fisher, that certainly challenged the skills of a handful of little old ladies,” says Lowe. “In addition to grants, we have had to do a lot of fundraising, and one such is a concert with the Shineolas on May 19, at Cedar Community Hall.”

The Shineolas are a dynamic group of award-winning veteran performers, multi-instrumentalists and seasoned vocalists who write and perform original music and classic gems with a funky, danceable flair. Their eclectic “goodtime” style combines elements of Texas swing, roots and blues, New Orleans R&B, gospel and vintage Jazz. The

Shawnna Carrano

group

Jude Briscoe with pup at a past Lions Walk for Guide Dogs. Photo submitted.

Volunteers renovating Cedar United Church. Photo submitted.

Shineolas bring together four distinctive musical talents. Bruce Gerrish (vocals, guitar, banjo, ukulele and piano) is a versatile vocalist, award-winning songwriter and entertainer. John Ellis (vocals, guitar, dobro, mandolin, banjo, pedal steel and piano) is an award-winning producer and multi-instrumentalist who has supported artists such as Colin James and Bruce Cockburn. The very gifted Marty Steele (piano, bass and organ) has shared the stage with the likes of Glen Campbell, John Fogerty and Stevie Wonder, to name a few. James McRae (drums, percussion and backup vocals) has played with a wide diversity of musicians from Miles Black to David Essig. Their high-calibre musicianship and combined musical experience offers audiences a listening treat and high-energy entertainment.. Tickets are available at the door or by calling or texting Joan Ryan 250-713-5549. The concert runs from 7 pm to 8.30 pm.

International 2024 Classic Boat Award for SV Dorothy

The accolades and awards keep coming for the Ladysmith Maritime Society’s Boat Restoration group.

On April 3, the LMS received the 2024 Classic Boat Award, a prestigious recognition for the Sailing Vessel Dorothy.

SV Dorothy, owned by the Maritime Museum of BC (MMBC), underwent an extensive restoration led by LMS's Heritage Boat Restoration Program in

Dorothy leaving Ladysmith under tow by Messenger 3. Photo: Robert Lawson

a project partnership with MMBC. The project, initiated in 2022, aimed to restore SV Dorothy to her original 1897 sailing condition, a goal achieved through the dedication of the awardwinning LMS volunteers.

The culmination of this endeavour was marked by SV Dorothy's triumphant relaunch in May 2023 at the Ladysmith Community Marina. The vessel was reintroduced as a functional sailing marvel during a world-class maritime heritage event, captivating enthusiasts with her timeless beauty.

Richard Wiefelspuett, Executive Director of LMS, expressed his gratitude to the MMBC and the LMS Volunteers for their outstanding achievement and well-deserved international recognition. He emphasized the perfect timing of the project partnership between MMBC and LMS, which was instrumental in this success.

Robert Lawson, the lead on the Dorothy restoration, expects to see the Dorothy out and about this season. The boat will lead the Sailpast at the Royal Victoria Yacht Club in Cadboro Bay, then attend the Sidney Boat, and be back in time for the Ladysmith Yacht Club’s Sailpast.

The restoration of SV Dorothy stands as a shining testament to the collaborative efforts of MMBC, LMS, and devoted volunteers, showcasing the enduring spirit of maritime heritage preservation, said Wiefelspuett.

BC NDP MLA Routley Says Funding Will Deliver Economic Diversification Projects

Local governments, First Nations and not-for-profit organizations throughout the West Coast and Vancouver Island are receiving funding to promote economic diversi fication, clean economy opportunities and infrastructure development.

“Through the creation of the Rural Economic Diversi fication and Infrastructure Program, our government is prioritizing investments that help our rural communities grow and thrive,” says Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “I am so happy to see our community benefiting from this program, and the investments announced today will help support our local food industry, expand options for skills training and create more opportunities for local businesses.”

In Nanaimo-North Cowichan, three projects are receiving over $1 million in funding:

• $496,105.35 for the Cowichan Valley Green Community Society to complete construction of the Cowichan Valley Farm and Food Hub

• $500,000 for the Canadian Amateur Rowing Association to design and build a shell house to stow rowing and training equipment

• $100,000 for the Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Vancouver Island for crisis management training and skill building for small businesses

The BC NDP government is investing up to $33 million across rural areas of the province for the second intake of the Rural Economic Diversi fication and Infrastructure Program (REDIP). Communities on Vancouver Island and other coastal communities will be receiving up to $12.9 million in funding for 41 approved projects from REDIP to help strengthen local economies.

In its fi rst two years, REDIP will see as much as $99 million invested in more than 300 projects throughout rural B.C.

Ladysmith Council’s Regular Meeting Update

Ladysmith Council met for a regular council meeting on April 16, 2024. Council authorized a contract award to MKM Projects Ltd. for the construction management of Phase 2 of the “Heart of the Hub” Machine Shop project, which is grantfunded. MKM has worked on numerous projects in the area, including the childcare expansion at 220 High Street, and has demonstrated the ability to effectively manage grant-funded projects.

Council then approved the Video Surveillance of Civic Property Policy to protect the security of the Town’s staff, patrons, assets and property.

Stage 2 Outdoor Watering Restrictions Come into Effect May 1

On May 1, 2024, Stage 2 outdoor watering restrictions come into effect for customers in all Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) Water Service Areas until further notice — except for Decourcey Water Service Area, which will remain at Stage 4.

In Stage 2 watering restrictions, sprinkling can only occur on even days for even-numbered houses and on odd days for odd-numbered houses. Sprinkling is permitted for a maximum of two hours between 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Vegetable garden watering and drip irrigation are exempt from restrictions.

The region went into the 2023 fall season with dry conditions. With the prospect of a dry summer ahead, proactive water conservation measures must be taken now to meet future water demands for essential household use, fi re protection, irrigation purposes and environmental flows.

Water system capacity and conditions vary across the region.

The Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 24th Annual Leaders and Achievers Awards Ceremony

The Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the 24th annual Leaders and Achievers Awards Ceremony, celebrating the exceptional contributions of individuals, businesses and non-profit organizations to the Nanaimo community. The awards presentation will take place at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre (VICC) on Saturday, May 4, 2024, coinciding with the legendary phrase “May the Fourth be with you.”

The Chamber is proud to showcase the fi nalists across 21 diverse categories. The awards ceremony promises an evening of recognition, celebration and networking.

Synergy Foundation is seeking businesses in the Cowichan Region to take part in the Project Zero Circular

Economy Accelerator.

The fi rst of its kind in Canada, the program supports businesses who seek to adopt circular economy principles, reduce waste and emissions, and develop innovative practices. Each participant completes an in-depth on-site assessment with an advisor and receives an opportunity assessment, detailing suggested actions to incorporate circular economy solutions and reduce waste, energy use and emissions. Participants also receive environmental metrics that they can use to track sustain-

ability performance, attract investment and position themselves as green leaders.

The Circular Economy Accelerator was piloted in 2022–23 as an initiative of the Vancouver Island Coast Economic Developers Association (VICEDA) and Synergy Foundation, with sixteen businesses completing assessments, including two supported by the CVRD and two by the Municipality of North Cowichan. This resulted in a cumulative 714 circular opportunities identified that, if adopted, have the potential to conserve 22,565 m3 of water, reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1,098 tC02e and divert 288,844 kg of waste from land fills.

More Support for Families Struggling with School Expenses

New Democrat MLAs Sheila Malcolmson and Doug Routley say families who are struggling with expenses for school activities will be receiving more support from their school districts.

“We want children and families to

be able to afford school supplies and extracurricular activities,” says Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo. “This funding will help more kids in Nanaimo get support, to make the most out of these important years.”

Local school districts are receiving the following funding from the Province to help schools provide support directly to families:

$495,000 for Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District No. 68

$347,000 for Cowichan Valley School District No. 79

Funding will help pay for student necessities, such as school supplies, school fees and class trips as well as additional costs associated with joining a school sports team or music program.

“Childrens’ success begins with access to nutritious meals, learning opportunities and proper supports,” says Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “This investment will ensure all children in our community can grow, learn and reach their full potential.”

This support comes from the Student and Family A ffordability Fund, which

Festival of Lights Survey

Festival of Lights New Board From L-R Debbie Gonzales (director), April Marrington (president), Tammy Leslie (treasurer), Laura Goodwin (secretary), Michael Robson (vice president) and Carol Chipchase (director). Photo submitted.

A recent survey commissioned by the previous board for the 2023 season showed the economic benefit of festival of Lights. Some highlights shared by Laura Goodwin, FOL secretary include:

• 90 per cent said FOL enhanced their image of Ladysmith.

• For visitors, 80 per cent said they would return.

• 60 per cent were here for the FOL but also wanted to shop, though most stores were closed. Source: Weighill, A. (2024). “Ladysmith Festival of Lights: Social and economic analysis – 2023.” World Leisure Centre of Excellence at VIU.

is being replenished with an additional $20 million this spring. Local school districts received the following funding from the Province for food programs during this school year:

$1,663,981 for Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District No. 68

$1,018,779 for Cowichan Valley School District No. 79

CVRD Begins Grant-Funded Improvement at the Bings Creek Recycling Centre

A signi ficant grant will support the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) in realizing some of the goals of its regional Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP).

In 2023, the CVRD was awarded $6 million from the Strategic Priorities Fund (SPF) under the Canada Community-Building Fund to undertake the construction of an organics waste transfer building at the Bings Creek Recycling Centre. This funding will also allow the CVRD to expand its existing recycling building and include upgrades to onsite service road and stormwater management.

Construction of the organics waste transfer building at Bings Creek Recycling Centre is expected to begin later this year and be operational in 2025.

Public and Business Input Sought on Economic Future of the Cowichan Region

Economic Development Cowichan (EDC) is creating a comprehensive Strategic Plan to guide its activities over the next five years and has launched a series of surveys seeking input from business owners and the members of the public.

“The community and business landscape in the region has shifted signi ficantly since the last Strategic Plan was formulated in 2018,” says Barry O’Riordan, manager of Economic Development Cowichan. “The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, the imperative of economic reconciliation with Indigenous peoples and escalating concerns around labour markets, housing affordability and climate change have radically transformed our economic terrain.”

The Economic Development Cowichan Strategic Plan is anticipated to be completed in 2024.

Concern Surrounds New Supportive Housing

BY KERITH WADDINGTON

Chase River seniors living close to what will be a new supportive housing complex opening this September are reacting with equal parts concern and compassion.

Seabreeze is a 160-unit senior’s mobile home park that lies adjacent to the highway and stretches between Cedar Road and 10th Street. As such, it will be in close proximity to Nanaimo’s newest supportive housing location at 1300 Island Highway South, a spot selected by BC Housing in collaboration with the City of Nanaimo as part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Province and the City to better support people experiencing homelessness.

Communication from BC Housing indicates that the new complex will have a minimum of three staff on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to ensure that residents are supported and that any concerns are addressed in a timely manner. The site will be fenced with a secure front gate and will have closedcircuit security cameras around the site (interior and exterior).

Staff will do regular exterior rounds around the site, and if neighbours have any concerns, they are encouraged to call the site directly.

Support services such as health referrals and wellness checks, outreach, life-skills training, employment assistance and connection and referral to community services and support groups will be made available to residents of 1300 Island Highway South.

BC Housing is in the process of selecting a non-profit operator for this project.

While there’s no doubt that the housing and affordability crisis means this new complex is much-needed and has the potential to help many people stabilize their lives, the seniors living nearby are worried.

Seabreeze residents Kathy and Bill Reilly, Gerry Jesberger, Michael Walters and Carole Carlson are concerned about an increase in theft, vandalism and drug paraphernalia in their community as a result of their new neighbours. They are also concerned for the many seniors who walk to and from the grocery store each day for sustenance and exercise.

“Many of us have walkers or are hard-of-hearing, so we’d be easy targets if someone had ill intent,” says Kathy Reilly. “I’m hearing, too, that people are spending what little money they have on extra lighting or security systems instead of food. Is this really what people who have been paying taxes for over half a century deserve?”

Walters says he wants on-site security 24 hours a day.

He, along with many other Seabreeze residents, are also angry at what they feel has been a lack of communication or opportunities for them to express their concerns.

“We came here to retire and live in peace,” says Walters. “I am told there were two public meetings online in early March, but no one at Seabreeze, that I am aware of, knew about them. And besides, lots of seniors don’t even have computers! It feels like people are hiding behind their screens.”

BC Housing says that they sent letters to people in the neighbourhood to inform them about the project in advance of the public announcement for this site on January 29, 2024.

Additional letters were sent on February 12 to let people in the neighbourhood know about the virtual community engagement sessions that were held March 5 and 7. The purpose of

Kathy and Bill Reilly and their dog. Photo: Kerith Waddington

these sessions was to inform community members about the project and provide opportunities for questions or concerns. A total of 24 people attended the two sessions.

Along with the Island Highway South site, which will provide temporary homes for up to 50 people, the Province and City worked together to keep the 50 temporary spaces at Newcastle Place, located at 250 Terminal Avenue, for other people experiencing homelessness in the community. (The current residents of Newcastle Place are moving into permanent supportive housing on Prideaux Street.)

Together, the 100 temporary spaces funded under the Province’s Homeless Encampment Action Response Temporary Housing (HEARTH) program at 1300 Island Highway South and Newcastle Place will provide interim housing for people who have been staying in shelters long term. This will free up much-needed shelter space. These sites are part of the more than 360 supportive homes the Province has opened or has underway in Nanaimo since 2017, such as the 51 homes at Samaritan Place at 702 Nicol Street.

Christy Wood, social planning manager for the City of Nanaimo, hopes to allay some of the worries surrounding the project.

“BC Housing staff have shared that residents living in the HEARTH sites, including at 1300 Island Highway South, will be people who have been living in shelters for an extended period of time. They have been stabilized and are ready to take the next step. We have been assured by BC Housing that it will be a different population chosen for this supportive community than what we saw at Newcastle Place, which was built to quickly house people from Nanaimo’s large downtown encampment that sprung up in 2018,” she says.

Acknowledging that Nanaimo has a very visible homeless population in numerous neighbourhoods throughout the city, Wood believes that providing housing, along with support service, is one of the ways we can help the City get ahead of the social disorder, public safety and opiate crisis it has fallen into the grips of.

A 2023 count put Nanaimo’s homeless at 515, although Wood says that those working closest to this population believe the number is anywhere from 800 to 1000.

Seabreeze resident Carole Carlson remains very concerned about her new neighbours but admits many in her community also want to help.

“As seniors, we have so many life skills we could share, and we’d be happy to do things like help residents make their grounds look attractive so they, too, can take pride in their home,” she says. “We are nervous because we’re not sure yet what to expect, or where we would go to offer our services. We just want to continue feeling safe in our community. I think having a proper opportunity to ask questions and have our concerns addressed would go a long way towards that.”

Wood says that it is her understanding that once an operator is chosen for the site, the operator will offer additional opportunities for community feedback and concerns.

BC Housing says that once the complex is open, key contacts will be made available on the Who to Call/When to Call info sheet provided to neighbours and available on BC Housing’s webpage at letstalkhousingbc.ca/nanaimo-1300-island-hwysouth.

They continue to welcome questions at communityrela-

Kathy Reilly has the last word from Seabreeze.

“We have formed a Block Watch Program and over 95 per cent of residents signed up in record time,” she says. “We hope to educate and be proactive in keeping our little piece of paradise safe.”

Proposed site of supportive housing, 1300 Island Highway South. Photo: Kerith Waddington

Spring 2024 Art Show & Sale

BY NADINE WONG

Chemainus Art Group is preparing for their annual Spring 2024 Art Show and Sale in May, with over 100 captivating works of art on display and live demonstrations throughout the event.

The Spring 2024 Art Show and Sale will be at the Saltair Community Centre, from Friday, May 24, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and May 25 and 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission.

Founded in 1969 as the Chemainus Sketch Group by 12 local artists, the Chemainus Art Group has remained a vibrant community of artists ever since. From humble beginnings in a founding members home, there have been many

Chemainus Art Group Show and Sale features local art such as this painting by Kathryn Huse. Photo submitted.

di

fferent locations hosting demonstrations, workshops and shows held in various venues around Chemainus, Ladysmith, Lake Cowichan and Duncan. They have evolved into the Chemainus Art Group to better represent the diversity of their endeavours and members. Now celebrating its 55th year, the group boasts a membership exceeding

60 artists. The Saltair Community Centre serves as a hub for creativity, camaraderie and artist growth. Guided by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors, they hold monthly meetings, engage in demonstrations, workshops and the invaluable exchange of artistic insights amongst their peers.

Interested in joining the Chemainus Art Group, visit www.chemainusartgroup.com/become-a-member.

Musical Revelry

After their well-received concert in March, the Nanaimo Chamber Orchestra presents on June 9, 2024, at St. Mary’s Church in Ladysmith “Musical Revelry,” for people who enjoy music and joyful activities such as dancing, singing and playing instrument.

Claire Mindell is this year’s winner of the annual Nanaimo Chamber Orchestra Concerto Competition. The orchestra is excited to have this talented teen play Haydn’s Cello Concerto in G Major as their soloist in June. She loves the overall flow of this piece and focuses on making it sound cheerful and effortless.

The Hayden Cello Concerto, with

three movements, is a frequently performed piece. Many cellists consider it one of the greatest works written for their instruments.

Also on the programme is the Baroque music composition Concerto in Sol Minore (Concerto in G minor) by the Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi. The piece is one of Vivaldi’s most famous works and is often called his G minor violin concerto.

The second half will bring a range of music, from Faure’s Dolly Suite, featuring six short pieces ranging from a lullaby to a lively and energetic Spanish dance. This popular work is enjoyed by both audiences and musicians.

Included is Franz Schubert’s “Four Songs for Strings” and the familiar Bach “Air on a G-String,” which has become one of Bach’s most enduring and beloved compositions.

Rounding out this delightful smorgasbord of music are pieces from two lesser-known composers. George Butterworth’s “The Banks of Green Willow” is based on the traditional English folk song “Green Bushes,” and García Caturla’s “Danzón Cubano” has become an iconic work in the Cuban music repertoire and is recognized as an important contribution to the global musical tradition. It is considered to be a fusion of different musical traditions, including African rhythms, Spanish melodies and indigenous Cuban music. The dance was popularized in the fi rst half of the 20th century and became an important part of Cuban culture, inspiring many other musical styles, such as the mambo, the cha-cha and the salsa.

Admission is $25 for adults, $5 for students and free for children under 12. Tickets are available online at www.nanaimochamberorchestra.com or with cash at the door.

Japanese Canadian Exhibits at the Nanaimo Museum

Two new exhibits are open at the Nanaimo Museum. The Broken Promises traveling exhibit from the Nikkei National Museum in Burnaby explores the dispossession of Japanese Canadians in the 1940s. A new permanent exhibit, From “Herring Capital” to Seven Potatoes, shares the story of the Japanese Canadian community in Nanaimo. Broken Promises will be at the Nanaimo Museum until Monday, September 2, 2024, and From “Herring Capital” to Seven Potatoes will remain in the permanent gallery.

Broken Promises illuminates the loss of home, and the struggle for justice of one racially marginalized community. The story unfolds by following seven narrators. Learn about life for Japanese Canadians in Canada before, during and after the war, and how legacies of dispossession continue to this day. Broken Promises is grounded in research from Landscapes of Injustice – a 7 year multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional, community engaged project.

From “Herring Capital” to Seven Potatoes is a permanent exhibit, developed by the Nanaimo Museum and the Central Vancouver Island Japanese Canadian Society to explore the story of the Japanese Canadian community in Nanaimo in three chapters: “From “Herring Capital” to Seven Potatoes provides opportunities to learn about the past and present of the Japanese Canadian community, and their signi ficant contributions to Nanaimo,” says Aimee Greenaway, curator at the Nanaimo Museum. “Collaborating with the Seven Potatoes brought forward important stories in ways that encourage museum guests to have an emotional connection to the experiences of the Japanese Canadian community.”

Korean Jazz Fusion

The Port Theatre Society, Korean Cultural Centre Canada and Nanaimo International Jazz Festival present SE:UM on May 5, 2024.

In 2013, a group of jazz players and Korean traditional musicians started to play jam sessions based on traditional Korean folk melodies and shamanistic rhythms, eventually forming SE:UM.

The eclectic quintet is comprised of saxophonist Hachul Song, trumpeter Jongsang Park, bassist Jaeha Lee, traditional percussionist Hanmin Cho and gayageum (twelve-stringed Korean zither) player and music director Joon Lee. Joon Lee is the recipient of the esteemed 2023 KBS Korean Traditional Music Award for his mastery of the Gayageum.

Girls Night Out Returns

Tickets for Girls Night Out are now on available.

Performed by musical friends Brenda Clarke, Ann McInultyGogo and Susan Warner, with all funds raised to support the Ladysmith Arts Capital Campaign and Eagles Youth Sports Program.

There will be two shows at Ladysmith Eagles Hall, 921 First Avenue: Friday, June 14, at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, June 15, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are only $25 and can be purchased at Eagles bar downtown or at www.ladysmitharts.ca/event-details/girlsnight-out.

Truth, Art & Reconciliation book

BY MARINA SACHT

I have come to meet Daniel R. Elliot, a Stz’ uminus Artist who’s bridging the gap between the Indigenous and European worlds through his art. Elliott rediscovered his First Nations culture through healing and then created a series of original paintings with the hopes of reconciliation for all Canadians.

But before I see the studio and his latest work, which BC Transit commissioned, I am offered a tea made with Devil's Claw. As I sip the earthy brew, I admire the watercolours in the room, including some of the pieces in the Winds of Change Collection. Elliott is an artist, historian, medicine man, cultural practitioner, and filmmaker. He has joined forces with veteran videographer David Malysheff to form Raven Sky Productions, a collaboration to bridge the liminal world for Canadians and Indigenous people alike.

Elliott is part Scottish, giving him a unique view of both Indigenous and settler cultures. He recently released a beautifully illustrated book, Truth, Art & Reconciliation: A Winds of Change project, available on Amazon. The book chronicles

his journey in creating the 14 original watercolour pieces that make up the Winds of Change art series. The show debuted in 2021 at VIU to great acclaim. His watercolours focus on First Nations themes. He uses symbolic languages from both Indigenous and settler cultures. While beautiful, they reveal the violence Indigenous People are subject to.

Ca

ffyn Jesse, who worked on the book with Elliott, found the book both challenging and comforting. “This book asks us to understand many dimensions of Indigenous trauma. It invites us to feel our own – and each other’s – traumas more intimately. It also opens new possibilities for healing, alternate ways of seeing, and transformative well-being, Jesse wrote in the book foreword.

In 2013, Elliott testi fied at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on behalf of his father and grandmother about the violence they experienced and the impact that had on them and their families. He pauses in his tour of the studio to unroll a banner. It’s a quote of his that was included in the Final Report on Truth & Reconciliation. “I think all Canadians need to stop and take a look and not look away. Yeah. It's embarrassing. Yeah. It's ugly. It's an ugly part of our history. We don't want to know about it. So what I want to see from the commission is to rewrite the history book so that other generations will understand and not go through the same things that we're going through now. Like, it never happened.”

The inspiration for Winds of Change came when Elliott found it frustrating as an Indigenous Artist to “see all these carvers and all this amazing work but felt that the understanding of what is actually really going on is being missed.” He felt compelled to create winds of change. “I wanted to try and fi nd a way to be a part of the solution of what needs to happen around healing.”

In his studio I study a watercolor showing an Indigenous man’s moment of transformation from the streets. The painting is based on a true story an Elder shared with him. “It's like hope and despair. It’s kind of the way our society's at now, you know, we feel it.”

On May 8, 2024, Elliott will be at Malaspina Theatre with his film Truth, Art & Reconciliation, a Winds of Change Project. For tickets, go to Eventbrite or call 778-269-0090.

Daniel Elliott with one of the featured paintings in Truth, Art & Reconciliation: A Winds of Change Photo: Marina Sacht

Film star wants to bring Ladysmith's Drug Czar to screen

BY MARINA SACHT

Kerry James is an actor and producer who calls Ladysmith his home. You may know him as Caleb Odell in the TV series Heartland, Canada’s longest-running series at 18 seasons. More recently, he was Nick Oats in Angie McDowells’ “The Way Home.” But if he has it his way, you may see him as Dale Elliott, sidekick of Ladysmith’s notorious Drug Czar Art Williams.

James and director-producer David Langlois (Gas Town Films) have joined forces to bring Art’s life story (85 Grams: Art Williams – Drug Czar written by Daryl Ashby) to a True TV Crime Drama Series.

Art Williams had spent a decade playing cat and mouse with the law as he grew into the largest producer of MDA in western Canada and the US before his plane reportedly crashed and he vanished.

A number of James' peers have signed on to assume roles in the production; Ian Tracy as Art Williams, Kerry James as Dale Elliott, Graham Wardel as Ralph Harris, Chris Potter as Sgt. Dave Staples and Chelsey Reist as Shirley Ferguson and Marly Reed as Showrunner.

“What's so exceptional about this project between Darrell Ashby writing the book and Jason Kelly writing the pilot for the premier episode of 85 Grams is that we have turned it into a television series. I think it's special to Vancouver Island, and this is wrapped up in actual history and set in the seventies, so it's proving to be a challenge, but I know it will be hotter than Breaking Bad. I feel very con fident in that, especially with the team behind it,” says James.

Ashby’s sequel, Nobody's Boy, also has the potential to be a Movie of the Week. James sees 85 Grams as a miniseries. “There's just too much content and too many interesting things that happen to sort of squish that down into 90 minutes.”

James' interest in the project goes beyond acting. “There has been talk about me potentially playing a character in it, but as cool as that would be, if for casting reasons and network reasons that may not come to fruition. And that's okay. What mat-

ters to me is just being involved in getting this off the ground. And if I got to play a little part in it, I'd be thrilled. “

Covid and his parents' health issues brought him back to the Island three years ago. Thankfully, their health has improved.

“It just makes sense for me to be here. The airport is literally 13 minutes from my house, and the ferry is all of 20. It's like a perfect little hub for me to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. I'm a true island boy, so there's lots of wandering and kayaking. I'm pretty partial to paddle boarding myself,” he says.

James is looking for investors to fi nance the pilot. “There are two ways of going about this: we could do the ultra-low budget where everybody is largely coming out and can work for free. And I know that a lot would, myself included. We could make this for as low as $200,000, or we could do it in a way that would guarantee that the product that we're trying to sell looks and matches the rest of the season. And that number is anywhere between $1.5 to $3 million. So, for all the TAKE 5 readers, this is your chance to make a truly made-in-Ladysmith movie.

James will be back filming Heartland in May. “It's a dream come true, especially for a small-town Canadian kid. It was supposed to be for a season, and now we are discussing going into season 18. It's been the greatest job of my entire life.”

Actor Kerry James with his travelling office. Photo: Marina Sacht

Is the lack of parking hurting downtown business?

Are you one of the many who come to downtown Ladysmith to either shop or go to the post office? Do you come during the prime shopping hours between 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., and are you unable to fi nd a convenient parking space? Is this because the 200 or so spaces in the two blocks or three of our downtown core are occupied? If you can’t fi nd a parking spot, do you get frustrated and end up circling the block, hoping for a parking spot to open up?

If so, you may have questioned the recently released study from the Town that said the use of parking spaces downtown on average is only 36 per cent, and it reached under 60 per cent at peak periods near Diversity Square (the space in front of the Wigwam). Unfortunately, the Town’s report is correct. It is correct because of the parameters they used — which, I feel, don’t address the real issue: Is there a parking problem that adversely affects local business and the public wishing to use those businesses?

( you can view the town's entire report by reviewing Agenda item 9.2 page 21 the April 2 Council meeting, )

The Town’s report says that there are 739 parking spots downtown. Unfortunately, the area they used to obtain that number covered more than the central downtown core of Roberts Street to Buller Street (approximately 200 spaces, including the 50 spaces between High Street and Roberts Street along First Ave). The 739 spaces they counted included parts of Second Ave and the length of First Ave from Queens Park to Aggie Hall, along with the sidehills of High Street, Buller and Roberts Street.

The sampling times that they used included 8 a.m., when most businesses are not yet open. They also include 5 p.m., a time of day when most shoppers have gone home for dinner and some busi-

nesses have closed for the day.

Surprisingly, the report also excluded Fridays from its study, thinking that holidays may distort the results. In fact, by my observations, Friday is one of, if not, the busiest days of the week.

The study gave an example, dated August 23, 2023, at 11 a.m., showing how busy the downtown can get. It showed that the 400 and 500 blocks of First Avenues (the most desired areas) were 99 and 98 per cent occupied, while the parking spots on High Street around In the Beantime Café were 100 per cent occupied. These numbers tell me that we really do have a parking issue — a problem that affects both the public and our local business.

So, how best to address the parking problem? First, we have to accept that we have a problem. Second, we have to determine the rami fications of the problem and, third, create a task force of those involved; the Town, the merchants, service providers, and the general public. Fourth, we should identify key issues that can be addressed quickly, such as stronger enforcement of parking rules, like requiring businesses and staff to park in underused parking areas. Fifth, we should recognize and take into consideration that our community is composed of 34 percent seniors and that 2200 of the population is over 70; they and others with mobility issues are adversely affected by parking on a sidehill and having to walk up hills.

The task force should also recognize that we have a signi ficant number of out-of-towners visiting our community

(e.g., going to the bake shop), who don’t know about parking other than that on First Ave. Lastly, the task force should look to both the near-future and longterm effects of population growth in the downtown area, with the planned renovations to Islander Hotel, along with the potential construction of a new city hall, which is proposed to include 95 housing units.

Downtown Ladysmith view of First Avenue. Photo: Rob Johnson.

Local Gardens on Tour

Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club Plant Sale

Now that our weather has fi nally turned into real spring, it's time to think about the garden. How has it come through the winter and that “false spring”? Are there some happy plants getting ready to show their best side? Are there a few sad plants that have not survived? Perhaps it needs a bit of assistance, and a few new friends to share the space.

On Saturday May 11, 2024, the Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club members will be taking over the Aggie Hall in Ladysmith to set up a sale of plants looking for new homes.

BY MARINA SACHT

Gardeners are getting ready for the Rotary Ladysmith 24th Annual Garden Tour on Sunday, May 26, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is an opportunity to explore these beautiful gardens, which are only open during the tour.

This year’s garden tour is a unique opportunity to explore our community, with several gardens on Chemainus Road, one on Panorama Crescent offering breathtaking ocean views, and four in the Cedar/Yellow Point area. Eight gardens have graciously opened their gates, with most gardeners ready to answer your questions.

One of the gardens on the tour is Tamah Hurn’s eclectic garden. The plants have all been grown from cuttings and are watered almost exclusively from rainwater collected in barrels and distributed via fish aquarium pumps.

If you are looking for a particular one — perhaps a hosta, a peony or iris — you may fi nd just the right one for your special garden. This sale will also have shrubs and trees, grasses, herbs and veggies as well as many perennials, including irises or day lilies.

Some very special items, like one-ofa-kind Mother’s Day baskets, have been created by the club members for this sale. Raffle tickets will be available.

If you are seeking garden advice for a problem plant, the Cowichan Valley master gardeners will have an information table set up to answer your question. Bring a picture of the problem or perhaps a branch or leaf; this will help.

The Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club meets every third Thursday of each month, from September to May, in the Ladysmith Eagle’s Hall. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the meeting begins at 7 p.m. We usually have a guest speaker, followed by a coffee break and a lively meeting.

Summer brings garden tours and social events. The money raised from this plant sale goes towards a bursary each year for a local student and speakers for our members.

For more information about the club, or our upcoming speakers, check our website at www.ladysmithsaltairgc.com or our Facebook page.

Starting at the new iris bed at the left side of the driveway and a large vegetable garden, grape arbour, raspberry patch and kiwi trees to the right of the drive, this garden is a combination of perennials, each with an interesting story behind it.

The only annuals grown here are to be eaten. Clever use of climbing peas and beans to shade their private porch in the summer, and a wheelbarrow strawberry bed can be seen on the left as you wander to the right around the house. The front gardens are full of azaleas, rhododendrons, peonies and flowering ground cover, among other perennials.

Hurn and her partner bought the Ladysmith home in 2013, and other than the very mature plants, there was nothing there, but the exposure was perfect for a garden. “I came with a quarry of rocks and 180 pots of perennials that I had taken from my previous garden. Some of these plants here have been with me since the seventies.”

The almost half an acre is affectionately called Nutbar Ranch, “because when we fi rst came here, we had a dog, a cat, a rabbit and a parrot, who is now 44 years old — and things could get a little crazy.”

Hurn has had a passion for gardening since she was a child. “I just fi nd it amazing that a tiny seed can turn into amazing stu ff. So pretty much every-

Tamah Hurn’s eclectic garden will be featured along with seven others on this year's Rotary Garden Tour. Photo: Bob Burgess

thing I have is from cuttings, seeds, friends who’ve given me slips of something, or what I’ve found in the back alleys or the ditches. Truly people throw away the most amazing things!”

Tickets for the Annual Garden Tour, sponsored by the Ladysmith & District Credit Union, are available in Ladysmith at Country Grocer, Nancy’s Fashions, Juniper and Sage Decor, Whole Health Pharmacy, the Ladysmith Art Gallery and more. You can also get a ticket on the day of the event in the upper parking lot of the Country Grocer from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

RDN Area A Cedar, South Wellington, Cassidy & Yellow Point

Local government leaders from Vancouver Island and coastal communities (e.g., Powell River) recently attended our association’s annual general meeting. In addition to voting on policy decisions, I found this event useful to learn from other electoral area directors who are in the process of evaluating whether their community should incorporate and become a municipality. This question is a longstanding debate in our community, and one I consider often and will continue to explore by learning from other’s experiences. These discussions and two additional events have me reflecting on what builds a healthy, resilient community.

The keynote speaker of our event, Diane Kalen-Sukra, spoke about the importance of civility and how civil lead-

ers could foster social cohesion. We all know that we live in a time of increasing social division. We seem to be increasingly divided into groups of us and them and tend to evaluate the “us” group more positively and the “other” group more negatively. Our interactions with one another, particularly online, seem quick to label people as “other” and then degrade into insults and disrespect. It seems that underlying assumptions tend towards the negative, rather than giving others the benefit of the assumption of good intensions.

As well, there is increasing erosion of trust in our elected leaders. Approximately half of Canadians feel their government is failing them. Ms. Kalen-Sukra noted the connection between the belief that others are worthy of equal respect, dignity and rights, and a sense of social unity and ultimately faith that our elec-

tions processes will provide us with good governance. At the core, when we interact with one another in a civil manner, we have a greater sense of connection within our community and are more likely to have faith in our public institutions even when we have differing opinions.

Of course, my simpli fication of this presentation into a few sentences does not do it justice. I hope you will allow me a leap of faith to jump to the main point that toxicity in our interactions undermines community well-being and our trust in our institutions.

Ms. Kalen-Sukra challenged us to think about how local government leaders can encourage collaboration and build trust in our community through our own actions. Integrity is an absolute must and is the basis of respect. Communication — listening, understanding and explaining — with respect for dif-

fering point of views is also important. It is this latter point that was emphasized in the discussion: Are we treating each other with basic civility and interact with one another with an underlying assumption of compassion? Our social institutions rely upon cooperation, which cannot exist if we do not treat each other with basic civility and, ideally, kindness.

The second event that had a signi ficant impact on my thoughts was the terribly sad news that Brian, the man who placed wooden owls throughout area trails, passed away. I met Brian a week previous for the fi rst time. It was my great pleasure to thank him for bringing joy to our trails. With modesty, he stated that he hoped the owls made people happy and that he was trying to encourage children to enjoy the outdoors. Reflecting upon the hundreds of owls that he placed on trails and the happy sounds of children fi nding the owls makes me feel incredibly grateful for his choice to bring happiness to others. I can only imagine the hours he must have spent acquiring the wood, making the owls and placing them in trees — all to bring joy to others.

It’s been suggested that if 25 per cent of a community interact with civility, then that becomes the dominant culture of that community. This is more than me fi nger wagging and asking people to love thy neighbour. In considering what is best for our community, it is clear that the path of rising incivility will encourage great mistrust and undermine our faith in our public institutions and democracy. The tsunami of issues (e.g., affordability, housing, addictions, climate change, degrading infrastructure) that will increasingly affect our community cannot be solved without cooperation. Without civility and a

willingness to listen to divergent opinions, we will not be able to cooperate to solve these problems.

So, in honour of Brian, I hope you will take a moment to treat someone with kindness or think about the kind of community you want to help build. In my constant wonderings of how to foster community well-being, there is always room for hearing alternative views and ideas.

I want to end by thanking those of you who have shared your opinions and views on issues in our community. There are a few of you who have shared that we may not see things from the same perspective, but you’ve shared those opinions in a respectful and forthright way. I believe that it is that kind of civility that will help us, collaboratively, make decisions that are right for our community. Please feel free to reach out to me at jessica.stanley@rdn.bc.ca or 250-268-7359.

CVRD Area H North Oyster/Diamond

‘Uy’ skweyul, si:em nu s’iyéyu. ‘i ‘u ch ‘uw ‘uý ‘al’? Good day, my respected friends. How are you?

Hul’q’umi’num is the local First Nations language from Malahat to Nanoose. It is deemed to be one of the most difficult languages to master. The Elders teaching me can attest to that from the many times (over and over) they correct me. I struggle, and we laugh together. But it is so much more than learning. It is building relationships and understanding. It is reconciliation.

Language is one way to see the culture of a people. Words are needed to reflect a people’s values and beliefs. But words also provide the way to connect to the past, present and future. Imagine the fear of losing your language, especially when this is the only language known by your ancestors, and that communication might be broken forever. I still talk to my longpassed mom, and though I don’t believe in afterlife, I somehow take comfort that if she did hear me that she would understand. My security in language is like a blanket that keeps me warm. I have that dream for everyone.

Another teaching is that the past, present and future are all connected. There is a word that describes family “in view.” There is another word that describes “all” family (past, present and future). This is an important distinction and one I want to try to build on when I think about the future of our community. I hope most of you are aware that we are in the middle of modernizing the Official Community Plan (OCP), and this will lead to the modernizing of the zoning bylaws. The OCP sets out a vision for the electoral areas over the next five to ten years consistent with Cowichan 2050. The Cowichan 2050 Regional Collaboration Framework was initiated by the CVRD in September 2017. In part, the project grew out of the CVRD’s 2016 Corporate Strategic Plan, which identified a need for a regional planning strategy or framework to support more sustainable and coordinated growth and development in the region.

An OCP guides decision-making on matters related to land use and development. It is an important document that represents community values and goals, and must be used to assess any application for rezoning or subdivision. As our population increases and development is proposed, the OCP is used to assist directors, sta ff and the public with decision-making processes. In an official community plan, each property is given a “land use designation.” A designation represents what the community has envisioned for the future use and density of the parcel. Where the community wants growth to occur, then Growth Containment Boundaries (GCB) are mapped out in the OCP. The GCB delineates areas where growth, development and investment in services and infrastructure should be focused. For the GCB to be an effective tool to manage growth, it needs to also have a clear link with land use designations that prescribe uses and densities. Apart from a few exceptions, designations within the GCB allow for densities higher than one house on 2.5 acres, and those outside the GCB allow for densities below one house on 2.5 acres. This establishes a standard whereby new development that is of a density of one house on 2.5 acres or higher is to be located within the GCB and is ideally connected to water and sewer systems.

Once the OCP is completed the zoning bylaws need to be

updated. Zoning bylaws are the main documents that regulate what a property can be used for, the density of development and the size and siting of buildings. The Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) is consolidating all of its electoral area zoning bylaws into a region-wide Comprehensive Zoning Bylaw (CZB). This will produce a muchneeded consolidation of general regulations and defi nitions and establish a framework that will serve the administration of planning regulations well into the foreseeable future in the nine electoral areas. Meanwhile, the Province has passed Bill 35 (Short-term Rental Accommodations Act) and Bill 44 (Housing Statues, Residential Development, Amendment Act), which impact zoning bylaws. I plan to write on this in the June edition.

So far, our community has been asked to provide input through community circles and public workshops that have contributed to the ideas book. Most recently was the workshop on the local area plan, which the CVRD will report back on this year.

As I reflect on my First Nations learnings, did we take time to think of both the past and the future. Is this the future that our parents and grandparents would want us to envision for our children and their children? Currently, there is a clear vision of a rural and agricultural community in North Oyster, with perhaps room for some growth in the Diamond. Does that vision, that we want to protect and preserve our piece of paradise, reflect the wishes of those that came before us as well meet the needs of our future generations? I will be looking for the best ways to make sure our fi nal vision gets locked into in any regional planning strategy.

Meanwhile, the next step in the modernization of the OCP is for the CVRD to meet with Area H Advisory Planning Commission at the North Oyster Community Centre (NOCC) at 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, June 21, 2024. The APC meeting is open for public to attend and listen.

The next Director’s Town Hall will be at 6 p.m. June 6, 2024, at NOCC. Please mark your calendars.

hay ce:p qa! Thank you all. In service, Ben.maartman@cvrd.bc.ca 250-5105930

Sailpast 2024

As the weather gets a little warmer and the days a little longer, boaters feel that irresistible urge to head to the water.

On Saturday May 11, 2024, the Ladysmith Yacht Club is planning their Opening Day Ceremonies and Sailpast Parade, a traditional start to the boating season. Boaters will get a chance to recognize their commodore, be blessed for fair seas and favourable winds, and reconnect with their fellow boaters.

However, you won’t need a boat to participate, as you can watch the sailpast and enjoy the activities at Transfer Beach. Along with a piper, there will be activity stations with face painting,

food trucks and draws for five $100 gift certi ficates from Country Grocer. Ladysmith Maritime Society will be raffling off their cedar strip canoe, and the Copper Canyon Band will have you dancing at the Kinsmen Hut.

Participating boats will assemble on the water outside of the Ladysmith Marina. Then, at 1:30 p.m., the YC Sailpast Parade will be led by Northern Light and joined by the Canadian Coast Guard, RCMP Ladysmith, SARS, Nanaimo and Maple Bay Yacht Club, and LYC members along with guest MP Lisa

Marie Barron.

The Sailpast Parade procession will go past the commodore’s boat and receive the commodore’s salute, then go south to Gourlay-Janes Park before returning to Transfer Beach at 2:45 p.m., with the sound horns ending the sailpast but signalling the official start of the boating season.

Also on May 11, the RCMSAR Station 29 Ladysmith invites the public to a Seafood Fundraiser Dinner at the Ladysmith Legion. For tickets email rcmsarstation29@gmail.com by May 6.

Sailpast at Transfer Beach, 2023. Photo: Bob Burgess

Marine Sale/Swap

Looking for some boating gear, tools or other maritime items? The Ladysmith Maritime Society invites you to their Maritime Sale on Saturday, May 25, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the west side of Oyster Bay Drive, right in front of the Expo Building.

LMS Volunteers will be offering an array of boating items, catering to fellow maritime enthusiasts.

As well as their items, the sale includes other participants showcasing their own surplus tools and equipment. Only charging a nominal table fee, organizers are anticipating approximately 20 tables offering boat-related goods. LMS is also accepting donations of maritime items for the sale.

Mark your calendars for this exciting event where treasures await discovery and scuttlebutt flourishes amongst fellow maritime aficionados. For details accounting@lmsmarina.ca.

Wakefoiling Charters & Rentals

Dry Dock Marine Group of Lake Cowichan owner Lucas Petrak is no stranger to boating. His interest was peaked early on in the summer of 1985 when he laid eyes on a banana yellow hondo flat bottom jet boat with a huge big block engine.

After a number of years working other jobs, Luc landed at Shuswap Marina where his passion for boats was solidi fied. Experience with all levels of boat maintenance, repair, major installations and even rescuing sunken boats led to the birth of Dry Dock Marine Group on the shores of Lake Cowichan. Incorporated in 2018 providing just that, all boating related maintenance and storage, a dream come true for Lucas and his

wife Samantha.

Shortly afterwards a unique Boating Concierge & Valet service was born and introduced to boating enthusiasts on Vancouver Island. Dry Dock provides an all-year-round service providing worry free, safe and enjoyable on-water experiences, from trailering, to launching, to pick up and return followed by seasonal maintenance and storage.

Keeping up with a new era of lake fun, Wakefoiling Charters & Rentals was launched in 2024 and pushes the limits of riding behind a boat or jet ski for wave-related excitement. This new board uses a foil that planes underwater and attaches to a traditional wakesurf board with a mast. While wakefoiling has been around for a while like the “Air Chair” foils have made their way into the world of sur fi ng and kiteboarding, and now, wake. Be prepared to ride in even the roughest conditions for a riding experience like no other.

For more information on Dry Dock Marine Group membership packages, valet services, storage solutions, boat maintenance, Wakefoiling Charters & Rentals visit www.drydockmarine.ca. Located at 33 Fern Road, Lake Cowichan, BC.

Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue Announces New Board Members

Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCMSAR) recently announced the appointment of two new board members: Rona Tepper and local resident Chris Badger.

Badger has 50 years of experience in the marine industry, 15 of which were at sea. He holds a baccalaureate degree from Simon Fraser University and was employed by the Vancouver

Fraser Port Authority from 1995 to 2011, retiring as the chief operating officer. Badger is currently an adjunct professor with Western Maritime College in Ladysmith. He brings to the table broad governance experience garnered through appointments to community and corporate boards.

“After more than 50 years in the marine industry, I have grown to admire the work of volunteer organizations, like RCMSAR, who dedicate their time to helping others on the water, and I hope my experience will be of use to the organization,” says Badger.

A volunteer-based charitable organization, operating 30 rescue stations along the coast of BC and

inland waters, including stations in Nanaimo and Ladysmith, RCMSAR’s mission is “saving lives on the water.” With over 900 volunteers, RCMSAR’s emergency response crews are oncall 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to respond to marine emergencies. RCMSAR volunteers also provide boating safety information, conduct pleasure craft safety checks and provide free access to children’s lifejackets at PFD loaner stations in many communities through the Kids Don’t Float program.

RCMSAR is called on to respond to marine emergencies by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in BC through an agreement with the

Chris Badger, new director for RCMSAR. Photo

An Encounter with Owls

BY ALEXANDER SMITH EIS NATURALIST

As the last bus of schoolchildren departed from Wildwood for the day and the sun dipped beneath the treeline, I decided to take a fi nal stroll down to the lake to decompress. Spring had arrived, painting the forest with vibrant hues and filling the air with the lively chatter of birds and the soothing croaks of tree frogs. Yet, as I ventured down the familiar path, the usual symphony of springtime suddenly fell silent. I paused, my ears pricked, trying to discern the cause of the unusual stillness. And then, as I turned the corner, bathed in the soft glow of the early evening sun, I saw it — one of our resident barred owls perched majestically on a branch. Owls, whether flying solo or in a group known as a parliament, embody mystical elegance in the forest. Amidst the bustling daytime forest chatter, you can often fi nd our Wildwood owls preening their feathers or dozing in and out of sleep. But as dusk draws in, the seemingly unperturbed lump of feathers transforms into something much more cunning and lethal. Owls’ silent flight, thanks to soft, perforated feathers and specialized wing structure, makes them incredibly stealthy hunters. Their

large forward-facing eyes are perfectly adapted for low-light hunting and tracking down prey. Once that prey is caught, their talons — which in some species can exert up to 500 pounds per square inch — secure their catch, solidifying them as rulers of the woodland realm.

Vancouver Island is home to seven species of owl, two of which you may be lucky enough to see at home. In this instance, the barred owl is a relative newcomer to the Island and arrived from the eastern provinces during the 1960s. Identi fiable by its striking barred pattern on its plumage and a deep hooting call, barred owls are fast becoming the most numerous and successful owls on the Island. Unlike native owls, one of the main reasons for their rapid expansion is their ability to survive in urban environments and areas of fragmented forest such as parks. The other reason is the barred owl’s voracious appetite, which they will happily satiate with an

amazing range of prey including birds, frogs, cray fish, small rodents and bats.

The owl you may be lucky enough to see at Wildwood is the great horned owl (Bubo virginianus). With a wingspan up to five feet, great horned owls are far larger than their barred counterparts and considerably more aggressive. Native to Vancouver Island, great horns are crepuscular, meaning they prefer to hunt during dawn and dusk. Much like most owls, they prey on a variety of different woodland mammals and birds and have been known to take down ospreys, falcons and even other owls.

Practices such as ecoforestry allow the continued existence of ecological niches in which owl species on Vancouver Island need to survive. The maintenance and protection of snags, or standing dead trees, are crucial for owl habitat, providing food opportunities as well as vital roosting and nesting sites in an ever-shrinking world.

Owl in the forest. Photo: Alexander Smith, EIS Naturalist

Protecting Pollinators

BY NIKKI TOXOPEUS

Isn’t it time for No Mow May again?

No Mow May or Grow Don’t Mow (which works for the Southern Hemisphere) is a catchy phrase for campaigns to protect the habitat and food supply of pollinators and invertebrates while they breed and raise their young. Their larvae are essential for the birds who are busy foraging to raise their offspring. No bugs, no birds.

I often hear, “How does not mowing the lawn in May help? Isn’t it too late?” Well, it does help a bit if your lawn has flowering weeds and patches where bugs can live. And yes, doing it only in

Pollinators need dandelions.

May does not help the emerging pollinators in March and April. The concept is broader than that. It starts in winter and ends in May, when the fledglings and butter flies can fly away. It includes allowing wild flowers and weeds to bloom. These weeds, even if they are introduced (but not invasive), are important food for some of the pollinators, especially in urban areas, where so much habitat has been lost. It is not just about lawns; it is also about connecting the patches of green spaces in the landscape.

In Cape Town, residents can sign up with the city to request their verges, parts of the parks and green spaces to be left unmown until the end of spring. I would love to do that here.

In the meantime, we can control what we do in our yards to create these wildlife habitat patches and become BIMBYs not NIMBYs. “Butter flies in my Backyard” is a David Suzuki Foundation Project, and perhaps we should broaden the term to include all bugs. Bees, moths, wasps and ants are all pollinators.

Good BIMBYs will avoid killing our pollinators with pesticides and mowing and provide them with food, water and shelter.

Food would include pollinator-friendly flowers from spring to fall for the adults. Native plants are adapted to the local climate and suited to many pollinators and are a wise choice. The more (diversity), the merrier.

Baby food would require having host plants for the larvae to feed on. You may need to learn more about the specific needs of the bugs to know which plants are needed, but some like ocean spray,

Photo: Nick Longo

nettles and maple support a wide range of bugs.

Water sources can include ponds, bird baths or water features. Using pea gravel on the edges can help bees access the water.

Shelter requires overwintering, nesting and egg-laying sites. These include bare ground, pithy stalks, leaf and brush piles. You may need to tolerate a little mess and wildness in your yard. This may trigger opportunities to talk to your neighbour and tell them why you are doing this.

If you can reduce your lawn to a minimum and replace it with a wild flower meadow, then mowing should be put off until after the seeds have set (usually in August) and you should leave a third of the meadow unmown every year to provide a refuge for the wildlife living there.

To learn more, check out the local communities who are working to protect pollinator habitats and look at websites like Nanaimo Area Land Trust (NALT) on nalt.bc.ca/pollinatorproject and Habitat Acquisition Trust (HAT) on hat.bc.ca/gardeningwithnature.

Satin flowers Nurseries has great native plant information and courses and have planted a lovely native pollinator habitat garden at the Nanaimo Airport entrance. Ladysmith Parks, Recreation and Culture have a BC Hydro grant for us to put a native plant garden at Transfer Beach Park this fall, and hopefully, pollinator habitat gardens will soon be featured in the local garden tours.

Let us “bee” the change we want to see and enjoy the sightings of bumble bees on the salmonberry, the miner bees nesting in the deck box and the dawn chorus of the spring.

Oregon Grape and Flowering Red Currant at NALT Demonstration Garden. Photo: Nikki Toxopeus

Take It Outside!

BY ELLY SMITH

We tend to be caught up in the busyness of computers, phones and having overscheduled lifestyles that bring on insomnia, anxiety, restlessness and weight imbalances. It’s time to take it outside! Here are seven science-backed health reasons to get outside right now:

• Increases physical activity

• Lowers blood pressure

• Provides access to improved air quality

• Harnesses improved social interaction

• Boosts moods

• Benefits immunity

• Decreases levels of stress and anxiety

cut grass or the trees. Welcome all this beauty with gratitude.

Being outside, especially in nature, soothes the senses, calms the mind and increases circulation as well as cultivates a sense of harmony and peace. Let’s look at a few outside activities that are healthy and fun too.

Walking in nature is so easy to do and provides so many benefits. Have you ever focused on one sense at a time? Try this next time. Listen to just the sounds of birds, water in a stream or your breathing. Then focus on what you feel: the wind against your skin, the sun giving you warmth, the coolness of the forest. Soak in the sights: trees, flowers, sky and clouds. Breathe in and savour the fragrance of blossoms, fresh

Step it up a notch and take to the hills, go in search of lookouts or join others in an outdoor fitness program combining nature and instructor-led classes. Bring back playfulness — kick a soccer ball around with your kids or grandkids or play on the swings. Did you know that play relieves stress, unlocks creativity, forms new neural pathways, nurtures connections and cultivates empathy?

Get a little dirt under your nails. Gardening is a seasonal ritual of renewal that can feed our senses, our souls and, in some cases, our tummies. Whether you are starting with simple planter boxes, a veggie garden or cultivating beautiful landscapes, the connection with plants is profound. The physical exercise of gardening can elevate mood, improve sleep, lower stress, increase immune system function and is considered moderate-intensity exercise, burning about 330 calories doing one hour of light gardening and yard work. Join a community garden — make new friends, learn new ideas and share your

Ladysmith Sea Dragon paddlers. Photo: Mary Clarke.

knowledge.

Gol fi ng is an active sport if you walk the course, and getting your circulation going means more blood is pumped to your brain and your heart rate is up at an optimal level for burning calories, plus repeated swings improve muscle memory. You might not feel like you’re getting an intense workout, but all that swinging and putting, plus walking an 18-hole course, really does add up. Tee time anyone?

Let’s go paddling! Kayaking, canoeing, dragon boating or paddle boarding (SUP) are low-impact activities that can improve your aerobic fitness, strength and flexibility. Increased muscle strength, particularly in the back, arms, shoulders and chest, from moving the paddle. There is also reduced risk of wear-and-tear on joints and tissues. Meditative or exhilarating — depends on where and how you do it. The repetitive movement of your body and the sound your paddles make when they hit the water can be mesmerizing. This state of mind is good for reflection and problem-solving.

Go forth, you have the power to clean! With the 2,400 PSI or more of water bursting through a hose, your core is engaged; add in rotational movement, overhead lifting, squatting, burning 250 to 300 calories an hour, and you are using nothing more than water to remove stains, dirt, mold, and other debris. This is good news for your lungs, your pets and the environment and you use 75 per cent less water because a pressure washer expels water at roughly 50 times the force of a garden hose.

No matter what activity you choose, this is the month to get back outside and enjoy the outdoors. Remember your sunhat and sunblock to protect the skin!

Creative Cuisine

I’ve completely alienated myself from the wine community by shining the Slightly Corked spotlight on a few of their pretentious practices. It’s now time to incur the wrath of others. Today, we pick on every waiter’s nemesis: those bully boys in the kitchen called chefs.

The fi rst indication chefs are not cut from a common cloth, say burlap, is their hat. You know, those tall, white stovepipe jobs that look like a funnel off the Queen Mary. If they were normal individuals, you might ask them why they are wearing a ship’s funnel, when traffic cones, a no starch alternative, are theirs for the taking. But you keep your mouth shut because the average chef is as wellarmed as an Afghan rebel. They come to work with a toolbox of weapons: French knives, slicing knives, boning knives, carving knives, cleavers, bread knives, cake knives, melon ballers, and an assortment of throwing knives should a waiter try to make a run for it.

They also come equipped with scissors that will cut through the femur of an adult musk ox and a mallet for flattening what was removed with the melon ballers. I’ve never personally looked under a chef’s hat but wouldn’t be surprised to fi nd more weapons: a grenade, perhaps, to take out the waiter’s station; a limpet mine for the headwaiter’s car; or still more melon ballers, sized to fit all nationalities.

Against this formidable armament, waiters come armed with a dull corkscrew and a few equally dull knockknock jokes. When the chef asks in that snarky tone, “Are you going to take these dinners out, or do we have to put legs on them?” the correct answer, unless you welcome evisceration, is “Yes, Chef. Right away, Chef.”

And that’s another issue. Why do they all want to be called “chef”? At the ga-

rage - even the Mercedes dealership, where tradition is everything - when the head mechanic asks for a ten-millimeter wrench, his minions don’t say, “Yes, Mechanic. Right away, Mechanic.” No, it’s “Sure thing, Wolfgang. Hey, check out the beauty in the SL550.”

But before we get any further into our discussion of chefs, we need to take certain precautions. We’ll just slide into these Kevlar suits, which can handle everything up to a 12-inch French knife. Next, we secure the perimeter. Now let’s play a little word association game, shall we? When I say “chef,” the average person is likely to respond with “creative.” Creative and chef seem to fit together like Emeril and Lagasse. “Bam!”

When I play the game, results differ. When I hear “chef,” I think “highly organized” and “hardworking.” I think “hand speed of Manny Pacquiao.” What I seldom think is “creative.”

Sorry to kick the sacred cow, but very few chefs are creative. There’s more duplication going on in the average kitchen than you’ll fi nd at Xerox. Before you start protesting, let me ask this. How many restaurants in town don’t have a Caesar salad on the menu? The same goes, these days, for pulled pork.

And what about the infestation of garlic mashed potatoes about 12 years back. One month no one has ever heard of garlic mashed potatoes; six months later, they’ve taken over the continent. A truly creative person would not be dishing up garlic mashed potatoes, except as a name for a rock band.

One look at a chef’s training and you’ll understand why so few are creative. They’re taught how to reproduce the classics: sauce Béarnaise, beef Wellington, veal Oscar, pretty much anything developed in the 18th century.

But is lack of creativity a bad thing? Hardly. Far more than creativity, a chef needs speed and consistency and a cool head under fi re. Restaurants don’t need a new menu every month. In fact, some restaurants go decades with only minor changes to their menu other than a quarterly power washing to remove catsup stains.

I happen to be a creative cook - possibly the fi rst person to put Smarties with mashed potatoes - but when I cook, you can be sure of two things: nothing is going to taste the same twice; and the

wait will be long. Still, you would have thought my idea for Tim Horton’s to serve turnip fries would have been better received.

Creativity may in fact be overrated. We already have rack of lamb with mustard and herbs, so why do we need the same rack coated with mustard and sparkles?

The thing is: with non-creative menus, you know what to expect. If it says Caesar salad, expect croutons and be prepared for garlic breath. If the menu says Mario does Romaine, you’re not so sure. When a six-foot-seven guy with spiked green hair, half an acre of tattoos, a petite goatee, cigarette hanging out of his mouth comes out of the kitchen, you ask, “Are you Mario?” When Mario nods, you tell him to “Hold the salad.”

Having said all that, there is a place where chefs are exercising considerable creativity and that’s writing the menu. All I really want from a menu item is name, rank and serial number - just the facts, please. An identi fication of the animal and its accompaniments will su ffice. Maybe some reassurance that the sauce will be “delicious.”

An exception occurs in an Asian restaurant where the fewer questions asked, the better. (What part of the reproductive system did you say I just ate?) Instead, today’s menu reads like poetry. Here’s an example - and no, I didn’t make this up. “Quail, parsnips, chicories, beurre rouge, fig leaf, and vanilla.” What kind of description is that? Why not give you the entire recipe? At least you’d know if the fig leaf should be worn behind the left ear or chopped into a fi ne chi ffonade.

Unfortunately, this type of menu writing is prevalent these days and chefs are stumbling over themselves to reach new levels of incomprehensibility. They’re digging through ancient cookbooks in search of a term or a name we won’t understand. Ah, here’s one, frumenti. It’s a wheat, sugar, and cinnamon concoction from the 14th century. Let’s call our apple crumble a frumenti. Guaranteed, no one will have a clue.

I’m sad to confess that some servers are willing accomplices in this feast of creativity and take delight in making the customer feel stupid. You know the type: late twenties, early thirties, dragging 30 grand of university debt, old

enough to know they should be looking for a real job but a little short of the ambition necessary. They’re always dressed trendier than you and only speak with an affected voice, no one knows why. Unhappy in their work, they’re going to make you, Frank Buckle who drives a delivery truck, pay for it.

But the war has only started. Informed consumers are catching on to French cooking terminology. Why even Frank said the other day, “En croute. That’s like a corn dog, right?” But I predict the battle will soon switch to Latin. “And tonight’s special is fileto possemundo, lightly brushed with olive oil, grilled carpe diem, and served E pluribus decundo. It comes with Chef’s vinculum alvum motus (guaranteed bowel movement) tunc tres dies (three times a day) or nummos (your money back).”

These “creative” menus serve not to enlighten but to befuddle. That’s why I’m taking a survey. All those in favor of returning to the days of “Succulent chicken with tasty dipping sauce” sign here: X_________________________________________

Today’s chefs like being referred to as trendy. That’s because no one has pointed out that trendy is just a euphemism for copycat. Take this ever-so-trendy 100-mile diet thing. Personally, I don’t care if the lamb comes from Farmer Shepherd down the road or Little Bo Peep. Nor do I need to know the exact GPS location of the field where my chicken was last seen ranging free. Ditto for the bay where the salmon last swam.

Primarily, the 100-mile diet doesn’t work for me because I happen to like lemons, European wine, and scotch. The 100mile guys lay claim to the moral high ground. Shipping from foreign lands burns nasty fossil fuels, they say. True, but so does delivering small orders of organic vegetables from restaurant to restaurant in a 20-year-old Volkswagen van.

I’m a fan of Adam Smith. I say let’s build a bridge to our hot climate neighbours and let comparative advantage work for us. How about you guys to the South grow the lemons and the cabernet; we’ll do the root vegetables and ice wine; and we’ll meet at the border to trade product.

The 100-mile guys would likely be against this Adam Smith diet but they’re overlooking that Smith’s diet promotes world peace. Countries simply don’t declare war on their trading partners. (At least until Trump came along.) Instead, they tend to exchange fi ne bottles of scotch at Christmas.

Think about it: when’s the last time Italy or France or California declared a trade war on Canada?

Pick up a copy of Delbert's book Slightly Corked at the TAKE 5 office for just $20 and laugh all month.

Wine Pick

BY ADRIANE POLO FROM CAREFREE WINE TOURS

Here's a bouquet of summer fruit your mom will appreciuate for Mother's Day.

Exhilarat!on Brut Rosé by Mission Hill Family Estate is sourced from two of their estate vineyards lending unique flavour characteristics to the Pinot Noir used in this Brut Rose, $40.

FOR SALE

FISH FISH FISH. Buy direct from the guy who caught it! High-quality salmon, lingcod, rockfish. All fish blast frozen at sea. Satisfaction guaranteed! Contact Jim at oceandancer. wallace@gmail.com or 250-245-5957/250-7391123.

TAKE 5 Ads work. Call 250-245-7015.

FARM FRESH

EMPRESS ACRES LITTLE FARM STORE: Pastured Eggs & Pork; Fresh Spring Org Cert Produce; open 7 days/wk; ph/text Marlene @ 250-889-1343 for pork orders or Email: marlene@empressacres.ca; 2974 Haslam Rd; see Fresh Sheet at www.empressacres.

ca

DARRELL ESSAR RENOVATIONS. Over 35 years’ experience, certified journeyman carpenter. Renovations. For free estimate, call Darrell 250-714-3823.

KB HANDYMAN AND YARD WORKS. Minor carpentry work, decks, fences, power washing, tree pruning, yard cleanup, lawn fertilizing, mowing. Seniors discount. Contact Karl kbhandymanandyardworks@ gmail.com or 250-714-2738.

ALL ACRES providing all aspects of tree work. Pruning, falling, hedging, dangerous tree removal. Fully insured. Professional work at reasonable rates. Call 250-246-1265.

CONCRETE RESULTS. Foundations, retaining walls, patios, driveways, walks and stairs. Full forming and finishing. 40 years’ experience. Contact Gord at concreteresultscon@gmail.com or 250-7534024.

ARTS & CRAFT FAIRS

Every Sunday Carol's Artisans: pens, quilting, woodworking, purses, sewing, knitting, jewelry, hats, clocks, cards, bat guano coffee, baking, preserves, jams, etc. 13467 Cedar Road 10am - 3pm. New Vendors Welcome Contact: petespensandmore@ shaw.ca

HEALTH & WELLNESS

TAI CHI for mental & physical health. Beginner class Monday mornings. Ongoing class every Wednesday morning. For class time and location and more information, visit www.taichinanaimo. org or call Sara 250-245-1466.

HOME & GARDEN

CEDAR GARDEN PRODUCTS. Raised patio herb and garden beds, pl anters and trellises. Call Ken at 250-246-4766 or self-serve at 10729 Rocky Beach Rd., Saltair.

HEART LAKE ROOFING for all your roofing repairs 250-668-9195.

PAINTER. Certified Journeyman. Clean, efficient, respectful, punctual. 25+ years’ experience. WCB coverage. Enhance your enjoyment of the home you love. Call Howard, 250-245-2751.

ISLAND PRUNING. Professional tree care from large scale orchards to budding new trees. I can meet any pruning need. Shrubs, vines and ornamental. Large & small cleanups. Call Darcy Belcourt 250-323-1260.

BOAT/CAR/TRAILER/RV PARKING. Royal Self Storage. Contact 250-245-1171.

BUSINESS

I CAN EDIT. Copy editing, proofreading, structural editing and more. Fiction or non fiction, web content and eBook prep. For more information, editican@gmail.com.

LAUNDRY SERVICES

LAUNDRY SERVICES. Crofton Shop & Wash Community Thrift Store & Laundromat with large capacity machines, affordable drop-off and pickup services; 1606 Joan Ave., Crofton. Open 9am–7pm; 6 days a week; closed Wednesdays. Call 250-324-2249.

Happy in My Work

“It’s pleasant work, requiring skill.” — Colonel Saito, from Bridge on the River Kwai

It’s been just shy of 20 years since we “bought the farm” and started ful filling a promise to our sweet friend Lynn Wallace: never clearcut the forest and always farm organically. Now I’m not building a bridge (yet!), but Colonel Saito’s words still apply to building up the farm and, more speci fically, the farm gardens. And it is indeed pleasant work, very gratifying, but I’ve sort of noticed a negative side rearing its ugly head in recent years (there’s that yin and yang for ya!). But fear not; I think I might have hit on a solution. Allow me to explain briefly:

The Yin: You see, over these farm years as my gardening knowledge increased and the orchard and garden plots flourished, my physical aptitude/ abilities conversely decreased. It was bound to happen. I hate to admit it, but I ain’t getting any younger. Rats!

Sure, I’ve upgraded my tools: a Felco left-handed pruner, ergonomically designed loppers and pole pruners. But man, even with that razor-sharp saw attachment, it seems to take a long time to cut big branches. And I’ve noticed that after a day in the orchard, my neck and shoulders and hands are stiff and I’m bone tired — same as in the garden plots. Bending over? Reaching to the ground? Ooh, my back, my knees, my wings (scapula).

I have to reveal a little secret here. In the last while, when I drop something, before I attempt to retrieve it, I think to myself, “Is this something that one of the dogs could eat safely” and “Is it necessary to pick it up, or can I just kick it aside or bury it with my foot?”

And while I’m in reveal mode (moad),

here’s a real old embarrassing confession: When I was a youngster (well, until I left home and went off to university), I used to give my father grief when he moaned, groaned or grunted bending over to tie his shoes or standing up from the sofa. He would say, “Mark my words, little girl — remember me when you get older and start to do the same thing.” I remember you, Dad, each and every time! Garden bed work, getting your fi ngers in the soil, is awesome but getting up after … a totally di fferent thing.

Now for the Yang: Out there in the big wide world, the inventors and marketing geniuses have been at work. They figured it out. Either they have aged themselves or their parents have shown them the way. Basically, many of the “gardening set” are retired, want to stay healthy and, now with some free time, want to spend more of it outside. They come with a disposable income along with an aging body, not as strong, with winges, twinges, and creeky arthritic joints. At least, that’s my theory.

Drumroll, please! Enter some solutions. I’m now hooked on my new (for lack of a better word) tool-toys. A battery-operated hand pruner and a super light-weight aluminum pole saw, also battery operated. Those are for the fruit trees, blackberry vines, black currant bushes — anything in my path.

And the garden plots? I’ve had this little bench for a few years now. I turn it upside down and use the padded seat to kneel on or sit on the bench, bending closer to the ground or laying over the bench to plant and weed. But my all-time favourite old-person task is … using the

handles to get up from the ground. And don’t get me started on the Dutch hoe — whada weeder!

But wait! There’s more. May is the time to plant here in Lotus Land. Stores and outlets are chockablock with all things gardening. There are plants sales everywhere. So, here’s my pitch (you knew it was coming, didn’t you): Why struggle with time-consuming pampering and coddling to get your seeds to grow? Why not let someone, usually someone REAL good a gardening, do the piddly work for you? There they are, all perky, healthy and ready for you to just plunk them in your garden.

Some plant sales are fundraisers for our community non-profit organizations, too, like the Cedar Women’s Institute and the United Church in Ladysmith, or clubs like the Garden Club in Cowichan and the Horticulture Society in Nanaimo. And they’re all on the same day. How convenient is that? And when is that super gardening day you may ask?

Remember Star Wars and Princess Leia (“Help me, Obi-Wan Kenobi”)? Well, I say to you all, “May the Fourth be with you.”

PS: The Cedar Women's Institute will also have some yummy cut organic rhubarb, raspberry plants, aged organic horse “nuggets,” perhaps a few baked treats and who knows what all. Be there or be square.

Jackie Moad is about to test out her new pruning gizmo on rhubarb leaves (pulling the stalks off first of course), as she continues to farm that 20-acre organic slice of Paradise in Cedar.

Jackie's Star Wars impression 'May the 4th be with you' with pruners. Photo submitted.

Pets Are Good for Your Health

BY KATHY REILLY OF MISS BEHAVIOUR'S DOG TRAINING

All pet lovers know that caring for and exercising a pet is good for their health and ours. Dogs and cats, birds, guinea pigs, all give us a reason to get up in the morning, form a routine around their feeding and exercise. But they also make us feel needed, feel relevant and can bring us peace in this not so peaceful world. In a recent survey, 90 per cent of senior citizens said having a pet in their home had a positive impact on their health.

A walk in the forest or park with your dog sni ffing every bush and standing on his hind legs to see the rabbits and squirrels run can make us smile no matter what other challenges we may have. Our pets take us to a different place, a happy, stress-free place and studies have shown that stroking a cat, dog or other little creature can lower your blood pressure and ease your anxieties and stress. Dogs also help us to connect with other people; they are little love magnets. It is hard to take a walk at the waterfront without someone approaching to talk to you and your canine buddy. Connections are extremely important to our mental well-being.

Many seniors’ residences have therapy dogs come to visit the residents. My dog, Tila, belongs to Clever K-9’s Tricks group. We entertain at the Kiwanis Village once a month. The residents love it. The dogs get to meet the audience after the performance. Everyone leaves with

A walk in the forest with your pet can be a family affair.

a smile on their face and fond memories of their own pets that they perhaps had to rehome when entering that next stage of their lives. We love to hear the stories they share with an obvious love and fondness.

Some senior homes have a resident cat or dog. These pets must be specially trained to be friendly but not too excited. No jumping on people. They must learn to be calm in any situation. They, of course, must be thoroughly housetrained, and no playful nipping, as seniors’ skin can be very thin and easily broken. They must not be spooked by wheelchairs, walkers and other assistance aids. St. John Ambulance must certify that the dogs meet all the criteria before visiting. They test dogs two years of age and older.

Companion animals can be great therapists too. They listen without judgement. They are supportive and tolerant of any of our moods. They can be sympathetic. A dog resting his chin on your knee and looking up at you with trust in his eyes cannot help but make you feel better. I can’t say that dogs never talk back, as my little guy must give a ticked-off bark when told to get out of the kitchen. He goes to his mat but must let me know he is not at all happy about it, which always makes me smile. I love his feistiness. We have a special bond that is experienced only between dog and human.

Here’s to many more years of daily walks, tricks performances and mutual love.

Photo: Elise Sacht