TAKE 5 Dec 2019/JAN 2020 by Take 5 Print & Digital Media

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DEC/JAN 2020

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Letters Tell Me More Congratulations to Kent Yaniw and Anne Brown for correctly identifying last month’s photo. As both of the responses were so detailed, the judges have decided to call it a tie, and each of them will receive lunch for two at In the Beantime. Kent Yaniw writes: Wonderful, wholesome kids from the 1950s. This photo was taken in June of 1956 after the yearend awards day at Mt. Brenton Elementary School in Saltair. The girls from left to right are: Judy Roy, Anna Knudsen and Janet Holland. They are posing with their Honour Block Letters for achievement, typically in academics, athletics and citizenship. You can notice badges pinned to the “H” letter. I was a student there a grade level behind Judy and Janet, and I believe two grades behind Anna. Judy I especially remember as being very athletic, winning all the races and things right on through high school. These girls lived close to the school on South Oyster School Road. Anna lived on Knudsen Road, which of course is named after her family. Janet lived almost directly across from the current Saltair grocery store, previously Byron’s and before that the Sunny Service, which it was at that time. Judy lived midway between on the west side of Chemainus Road. An interesting sidebar is that Judy is the sister-in-law of Mel Dorey, the former CVRD Area G director, who was instru-

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The trophy was placed in the school cabinet in the hall for many years. When the school closed its doors, it would have been packed up with all the schools mementos and placed in storage. It would be very nice after 63 years to find the cup and show it to my grandchildren, as they also attended Mt. Brenton School.

Global Warming, Global Warning mental in the acquisition of the closed school to become the Saltair Community Centre of today. Mel and wife, Donna, Judy’s sister, live just down the hill from the school road. Anne (Knudsen) Brown, who was pictured in the photo, writes: Mt. Brenton School had three house teams, and the kids were divided between them. The “H” we were holding was for our house team; the “A” was for achieving the highest points for our house on Sports Day. The trophy cup I, Anna Knudsen, was holding was because I placed first in all the Sports Day competitions that year.

I just read the mayor’s column in the newspaper. His global warming is a whole lot diﬀerent than the way I see it. I knew global warming was taking place 70 years ago when I happened to be in the New Westminster Court House. On the walls were photos of pioneers hauling logs across the frozen Fraser River with horse teams and sleighs. It did say what year it was, but I do not remember today what it was. No one sees that anymore. This has never been new to me. If I wrote about global warming, I know my column would have been three times longer that the mayor’s column was. I’m sure now that global warming has

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caught up to most people today. Take a look out your window, and how many small streams do you see? None. And creeks don’t run in the summers anymore. Yes, Mr. Mayor, we will need all those buses you propose, to transport people up and down the island in the future, looking for water. If you keep building like crazy, like we’ve been doing, and putting in a seven-mile water filtering system to filter the little water we have left, and this keeps up for the next 10 or 12 years as some scientists say, guess what we’re going to be out of? WATER. If you want to see the real global warming, just go to the museum in Fairbanks, Alaska. That place will tell you what you didn’t know, like growing bananas in June. It is there to see. — Jim Szaaz

Letters to the editor on community topics are welcomed but may be edited for space and legality at the discretion of TAKE 5. Opinions stated do not necessarily reflect those of TAKE 5 and its aﬃliate. editor@take5.ca

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The Siege of Ladysmith This month, 120 years ago, Ladysmith, South Africa, the city our town is named after, was under siege. Lasting 118 days, the blockade saw thousands of soldiers and civilians dead or wounded in attempt to relieve our namesake. The Boer War had started just a month before the Battle of Ladysmith became one of the first and most famous battles of the war. Only 49 years earlier, Ladysmith had its name changed from Windsor to honour the wife of Sir Harry Smith, who had been the governor general of the Crown Colony of South Africa. Cut oﬀ from the rest of the world, Ladysmith endured 188 days of constant shelling, conditions that almost brought its citizens and the British army to their knees. Had Ladysmith fallen, the history of the world may have been changed forever. Ladysmith was a critical rail hub within the southern part of South Africa and a key to winning the Boer War. Its importance made it a prime target. Under General White, the British massed their troops at Ladysmith to protect the town and stop the Boers advance. The first battle, on October 30, 1899, turned out to be a disaster for the British. Even though the British outnumbered the Boers by almost 2 to 1, General White

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lost 400 men, with an additional 800 captured. After the battle, the British army retreated to defend Ladysmith. The Boer troops, mostly Dutch farmers and settlers, surrounded the town and cut the rail link to the rest of the country. Thus started the Siege of Ladysmith that lasted almost four months. In the early days, food supplies quickly ran out. People soon resorted to eating all their livestock, including their horses. Their source of fresh, clean water was cut oﬀ, and they were forced to drink from the polluted Kliprivier. Every day, except Sundays, the Boer artillery from the surrounding hills lobbed thousands of shells into the town. Surprisingly, only 64 were killed from these bombardments, as many resorted to living in caves dug into the riverbank. It became imperative for Ladysmith to be relieved. If it fell, that could lead to the loss of the war. If it could be retaken, that could spell the beginning of the end for the Boers. By mid-January, British forces, supported by troops from the Colonies, such as Canada, Australia and New Zealand, had swollen to a half a million men, as compared to the Boer’s 80,000, and the British were now in a position to take back its besieged cities, especially Ladysmith.

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The fight to relieve Ladysmith was proving to be costly, as the Boers were able to fight oﬀ the British all along the trek to Ladysmith. One of the most notable battles to free Ladysmith was the Battle of Spion Kop. This hilltop commands a view to the entrance to Ladysmith, and the British decided that it had needed to be taken. On January 23, thousands of British troops silently climbed up the steep hill to this strategically significant location. Quickly, they overpowered a small Boar force, but later realized that they were in a very exposed position. Soon rifle fire and artillery shells rained down on them. Their position oﬀered little to no cover. During the battle, in 40-degree heat, the British lost 243 men, and 1250 were wounded. The battle was later known as the “Acre of Massacre,” for never had so many been killed and injured in an area as small as a football pitch. The Battle of Spion Kop has a couple of interesting side stories. Three people who later became famous were a part of this tragic battle: Louis Botha, who went on to become the Prime Minister of Union of South Africa, Mahatma Gandhi, and Winston Churchill. Churchill was a second lieutenant running orders from base camp to the fighting atop the hill. Gandhi, on the other hand, lead fellow volunteers of the Natal Indian Ambulance Corps to carry the dead and wounded from the battlefield while the battle raged. About a month later, on February 28, British Forces, including Winston Churchill at the front, entered the Town of Ladysmith. The cheers of all who had survived the siege welcomed the troops. Within hours, word of the relief of Ladysmith had spread around the world. Parades and celebrations were held all over Britain and in the Colonies, to celebrate the victory. James Dunsmuir, a staunch supporter of the British, greeted this news with delight, and he decreed that the new town he was building at Oyster Harbour be named “Ladysmith” in honour of this victory. He instructed that all the major streets within the town be named after prominent generals who fought in the Boer War. Thus, this was done, with the exception of High Street, which was to be the main shopping area. That’s why I think that the lifting of the Siege of Ladysmith is a big deal. At least that’s as I see it.

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History of Gogo Farm BY MIKE GOGO In 1897, John Gogo came to Vancouver Island from the steps of Russia. He was very adept at riding and roping and immigrated to the U.S. There, he went to the west and caught wild horses, tamed them and sold them to the U.S. Army. He did well and then heard of the opportunities here on the Island in the coal industry. He was adept at animal husbandry, so he obtained a contract to supply the mining companies with mules. Most people don’t know that to get a mule, you have to cross a donkey with a horse. He supplied local mines and a mine at Cumberland. He had four stepsons and one of his

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own, who was named John Harold Gogo. During the big mining strike here in 1912, where 3500 miners in this area walked out, he backed the miners and pulled his animals out of the mines. He sold the animals and bought 650 acres here and some in Vancouver. He sold the timber rights to his land in 1920 for a large cash sum. The company who bought it had 25 years to log it, but after the 25 years expired, the timber was still standing, so John Sr. reclaimed these timber rights and his son John Jr. started logging. This carried on, and in 1987, John Jr.’s son, Ronald, obtained a Provincial Woodlot License from the Ministry of Forests. His brother, Mike, started a sawmill, and this timber was used to supply the public directly from the mill. Secondary manufacturers were also supplied, along with local building centres. Lumber was shipped away as far as New Zealand, but no raw logs were ever exported as the family did not, and still doesn’t, believe in exporting jobs. In 1929, the start of the depression brought huge unemployment here, so John Jr., along with other local landown-

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Mike Gogo with one of the Christmas trees

ers, decided to export Christmas trees to the U.S. in boxcars. So the Gogo Christmas Tree Farm began in 1929, and this year, it’s celebrating ninety years of sales and the 122nd year of cattle and Christmas tree production. In 1984, Mike attended a seminar in Fife, Washington, to learn how to run a you-cut tree farm. The first year, the Gogo Christmas Tree Farm sold 119, but now sells over 3000 trees. Thirteen local schools and charities take part and receive 20 per cent of the revenue. Today, the fifth generation of Gogos are living and working on the farm. You may not know this, but young trees are much more eﬃcient at cleaning the air than old trees, and the farm has 70 acres of Christmas trees and 1100 acres of young timber doing just that 24/7.

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Cold Weather Shelter BY MARINA SACHT While many of us are caught up in the bustle of the holidays with shopping, decorating and entertaining, there are some in our community that don’t even have a place to call home or lay their heads. That’s where Ladysmith’s Cold Weather Shelter comes in. Operated by the Ladysmith Resources Centre, the shelter is open from 6 p.m. until 7 a.m. daily now through March 31. Located at the rear of 631 First Avenue, the space is a bright clean place that offers assistance and hope to the homeless. Funded through BC Housing, the program provides a hot evening meal, a safe clean bed, shower, laundry, a hot breakfast and the welcoming staff and volunteers ready to offer support and referrals to resources and other agencies if the guest so desires this help. The shelter has a male and female dorm and can sleep up to 10 people. Melissa Bond Program manager for the LRCA says that the typical clients are “men sleeping rough,” The shelter provides more then a safe place for the night. “If they don’t have warm clothing or if it’s wet, we will make sure they have appropriate clothing.” The LRCA accepts donations of winter wear such as coats, gloves, and toques for their guests. Four staff people run two shits a day, ensuring their clients’ needs are met. “People enjoy working here. They feel good about the work they’re doing, “ says Melissa. This year we had an incredible influx of extremely qualified people who wanting to work for us who have worked with addicted individuals and vulnerable people. It is really exciting to have such a robust team, says Melissa about the 10 staff members who manage the shelter. Karla Vandermaden is one of the team members. She’s excited about their new computer system that’s been implemented through BC housing that will allow them to keep track of their clients and where they’re going. The staff will help with housing searches as well as resources. “We just had a client that was referred to a rehab facility just recently,” says Karla. The work being done daily at the Cold Weather Shelter is

Melissa Bond, Program Manager Ladysmith Resources Centre Association at Ladysmith’s Cold Weather Shelter. Photo: Marina Sacht

extremely important. “Even when it’s above zero it’s still life-threatening when you are homeless because we’re in a damp climate and when people get wet they just can’t dry out,” says Melissa. There are many reasons people are living rough or are underhoused, but at the end of the day most of it stems from trauma. “We just need to support people, to meet them where they’re at, and help them so they can make diﬀerent decisions on another day.” Ladysmith Shelter provides a safe space for our clients that is nurturing and accepting of whoever they are. The bright rooms, shelves with books and DVD’s, and welcoming staﬀ makes the shelter a warm place not just for the body but for the soul. For more information, or to donate contact the Ladysmith Resources Centre Association at 250-245-3079.

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RDN Transit Meeting When Gerard Nachtegaele moved to Cassidy several years ago, he couldn’t believe that there was no bus service. Nachtegaele along with others in the neighbourhood campaigned for transit. It’s been a long wait but starting January 2020, RDN Transit is coming to South Wellington, Cassidy and the Nanaimo Airport. You’ll get a chance to find out routes and schedules at a free information session on Dec 12, at 6 pm, at the Western Maritime Institute, 3519 Hallberg Road. Nachtegaele says he is looking forward to the public meeting to learn more about the route. He cited many hardships with some residents missing doctor’s appointments because they couldn’t get a ride or aﬀord a cab. Transit will be a big help to the Cassidy community.

Nachtegaele with partner (left) Deirdre Saunders standing beside the Cassidy Community Notice Board

Earthquake talk kicks oﬀ “Historically Speaking” Series Are you ready for the big one? The Ladysmith & District Historical Society is hosting a free general membership meeting along with the first of their “Historically Speaking Series”. The topic will be Earthquakes and Ladysmith: History Reason, Risk and Why You Should Prepare by Quentin Good-

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body, geologist and president of LDHS, on Tuesday, January 14, at 7 pm at the Ladysmith Museum. The Ladysmith Museum with a new Seasons Greeting exhibit and hands-on craft activities is open 4 to 8 pm during Olde Time Christmas Dec. 6 and 13, and Saturdays noon to 4 pm Dec 7, and Dec 14. The Ladysmith Archives will close Dec 16 to Jan 3. In celebration of the holidays, the society invite the public to participate in their 12 Days of Heritage Quiz. Check their facebook page or their website where daily questions will be posted from Dec 25 to Jan 5. ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca

Town’s confirms safe drinking water In the wake of recent reports about lead levels in community water across Canada, the Town of Ladysmith wishes to confirm with residents that quarterly testing for lead and other heavy metals in the local water supply have consistently recorded levels that meet or

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beat the safety standards set out in the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality. Due to the recent increase in public awareness arising from reports related to changes in March to Health Canada’s guidelines for acceptable levels of lead in potable water, the Town will now increase water testing to monthly, rotating each month to a diﬀerent pair of our 10 testing stations. The water we deliver to individual property lines is safe for consumption; however, it is possible that materials such as pipes, fittings or solders used within private homes and buildings could contain materials such as lead which may aﬀect water quality. As a precautionary measure, the Town tested samples from all 10 of the water testing stations during the week of November 11th, 2019. All samples are well within the safety standards set by Health Canada.

Thanks from Port Alice The Town of Ladysmith received a special gift from the Village of Port Al-

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Councillor Rob Johnson and Ladysmith Mayor Aaron Stone hold up gift from Port Alice.

ice. Ladysmith Councillor Rob Johnson serves as the Town’s representative on the Vancouver Island Regional Library Board with Port Alice Councillor Bruce Lloyd, who passed along the metal artwork at a recent meeting. The fire truck is engraved with the words “Thanks Ladysmith! – From the People of Port Alice.” At its meeting on June 17, 2019, Ladysmith Council waived the Town’s purchasing policy and agreed to sell the 1990 Custom Pierce Dash Pumper for $10,000 to Port Alice in light of its financial challenges over the last couple of years with the closure of its pulp mill.

Heritage Award call for nominations The Ladysmith & District Historical Society is calling for nominations from the community for their new annual Heritage Awards. The awards are to recognize the businesses, individuals and societies that have played a key role during the year in their actions or initiatives in preserving or promoting local heritage.

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“It’s a way for us as a community to show appreciation for the role we all play in preserving our heritage,” says Quentin Goodbody, President of the LDHS. Anyone can send in a nomination and can nominate themselves or their own business or society. Nominations are being accepted until Dec. 31, 2019. Email: info@ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca or visit ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca The award recipients will be announced during February’s BC Heritage Week.

Fuller Lake Flyers honoured BY KENT KNELSON The iconic Fuller Lake Junior B Flyers hockey program was recently among the 2019 inductees for the North Cowichan/ Duncan Sports Wall of Fame. Kent Knelson who was one of the players recalls their past.

Fuller Lake Junior B Flyers inducted to Wall of Fame.

In the fall of 1968 Fuller Lake Arena opened its doors for the first time. The arena provided many new opportunities for recreation and also signaled the start of Minor Hockey in the Cowichan Valley. In the fall of 1970 the Fuller Lake Junior ‘B’ Flyers played their first home game. This was a remarkable accomplishment considering that the majority of the Flyers players had only played two years of organized hockey. From 1970 to 1980 the Flyers played competitive, action packed hockey for their supporters from the entire Cowichan Valley. Some of the best young players in the region laced up their skates with the team during the early years and set the standard for others to follow. The level of play was an inspiration to the community and resulted in a strong sense of collective ownership of the Junior ‘B’ Flyers amongst the players, their families, their fans, and supporting businesses. In their first year of operation, during the Minor Hockey Jamboree, 1500 fans jammed the arena to watch the Flyers win the feature game. In subsequent years it would be normal for 500 fans to flock to Fuller Lake every Wednesday night to watch the Flyers play. The arena was the place to be to follow a hockey team that made the community proud. In conversations with former players the comment heard again and again was “Playing for the Flyers was the best time of my life”.

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Carol service benefit at the Eagles The Rock will be hosting a carol service at the Ladysmith Eagles Hall on Dec. 22, at 6pm in place of the Celebration of Life event. “We’ve been helping a few people through rehab with addiction problems this year, so that is the focus of our fundraising this year,” said Chris Burgess.“We’ve personally raised $30,000 towards this, but it is expensive to turn these lives around.” Anyone wishing to help their #shinethelightladysmith cause can donate by cheque to the Rock Christian Fellowship, designating the cheque ‘rehab’; by cash, or by EMT to billybiglis@hotmail.com or Chris’ cell 250-668-6033 or mail it to Chris Burness, 628 Walkem Road, Ladysmith, BC, V9G 1P7 The Rock meets on Sunday evenings, 6pm at the Eagles Hall.

Child care space The Town of Ladysmith will apply for to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities Child Care Space Creation Program for up to $1 million to create additional child care spaces at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Vancouver Island building on High Street. The UBCM program requires that the Town make a 15-year commitment with the province to provide the child care spaces to the community as well as own the building where programming would be oﬀered. The Town owns the 220 High Street building and currently leases space to the Boys and Girls Clubs. It is anticipated that the funding would create an additional 12 new infant/toddler spaces. The Town is also currently participating in a project with regional partners after successfully receiving $125,000 from the Community Child Care Planning Program. Led by the CVRD, the goal of the project is to collect data, engage with the community to identify current gaps and barriers, complete an inventory of existing child care and develop a community child care plan with short, mid and long term recommendations.

RDN Board elects Chairs The RDN Board elected a Chair and Vice-Chair at the inaugural meeting of the Board on November 12, 2019. Provincial legislation requires regional districts annually elect a Chair and a Vice-Chair at the first meeting of the Board after November 1. Chair, Ian Thorpe, was re-elected as the head and chief executive oﬃcer of the RDN and will chair all board meetings. The Vice-Chair, Vanessa Craig, is responsible for fulfilling the role of the Chair when the Chair is unavailable.

Ladysmith Council’s Strategic Plan sets key priorities for the community The Town of Ladysmith’s 2020-2023 Strategic Plan was adopted by Council on November 4, 2019 and it advances projects centered on four key priorities: Infrastructure, Waterfront, Economy and Community. “Climate change is a thread that weaves through many of our strategic priorities. In this plan, Council has committed to making Ladysmith a forward-looking leader in developing solutions that mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change, head-on,” said Mayor Aaron Stone.The Plan is available on the Town’s website. Print copies can be picked up at City Hall.

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Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular Have you booked your tickets yet for this Vancouver Island holiday favourite? What better way to celebrate the season than with a night out at the 13th Annual Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular. Another new show and new experience! The cast was selected in June after several days of amazing auditions in Vancouver. “We are lucky to have so much incredible talent in B.C. One of my goals with this show has always been to provide employment for some of these artists right here on Vancouver Island,” says Katy. Katy spends all year working on the creation of each new show, but the cast are only together for five weeks. It’s fast moving and colourful. It will take you on an emotional journey through a wide variety of music and dance from rock and roll to Broadway, jazz, classical and Christmas favourites interwoven with touching readings and stories. The production runs in Nanaimo at the Port Theatre (December 17–22). Visit yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca

A Mid-Winter Night’s Dream Yellow Point Singers performs its annual winter concert at Oceanview Community Church (381 Davis Road), in Ladysmith, on Sunday, December 8,

Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular

at 3 pm. Under the direction of Doug Roszmann and accompanied by Pippa Williams, the choir will share its love of song with a variety of seasonal pieces. The choir welcomes the vocal ensemble Panache as guests this year. Over the time Panache has been singing together, they have developed a style all their own – with familiar tunes, lovely harmonies and a whole lot of movin’ and groovin’! Tickets are $15 (under 12 free) and available from choir members. Email dbruce.forward@gmail.com.

Wake Up the Happy Brain Nanaimo health guru can add author to her title. Eike Jordan, CCH, is the only Canadian co-author in Wake Up the Happy Brain book, an Amazon #1 Bestseller, released in November 2019.

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This is a practical workbook about how authors from around the world offer positive treatment modalities for a variety of conditions. This book oﬀers a comprehensive insight into how these pioneers have transformed lives in ways that go beyond the allopathic treatment model of Western medicine. There is literally something for everyone, from stories of personal recovery and new perspectives on getting back to the basics, to thriving in an increasingly complex world. Each author, at the end of his or her story, has a personal biography with contact information. We encourage you to reach out to any author of your choice for further information and personal coaching. Eike Jordan would also like to take this opportunity to thank her fellow authors for the excellent work they perform all over the world. “It is genuinely awe-inspiring to see the writing of so many dynamic healers gathered in one place to share their unique messages, secrets, and stories.” Says Jordan. While you read this book, keep in mind that you also have the capacity within yourself to achieve a resilient, happy brain!

Winter Harp Winter Harp returns this December to the Island as part of a nine-city B.C. concert tour. For over 26 years, this acclaimed ensemble has become renowned for delivering beautiful, soul-stirring performances. They will be performing December 7, at 3:30 pm, at The Port Theatre in Nanaimo and on Sunday, December 8, at 2 pm, at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre in Duncan Visit www.winterharp.com for more information.

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Artist Artist Jennifer Kelso with her model at Antique Addict. Photo: Marina Sacht

Building Miniatures If you have stopped into the Antique Addict on Roberts Street in Ladysmith, you will be sure to notice the wood miniatures of the three landmark buildings of Roberts Street: Antique Addict, Maya Norte and Roberts Street Pizza. The detailed model is the work of local artist Jennifer Kelso, who operates Past Made Present Furniture Revivals studio in Saltair. If you care to view this piece, please visit the Antique Addict in Ladysmith where it is on display.

Osborne Bay Pub lineup On Friday, December 13, at 8 pm, join the Blue Moon Marquee for a most unforgettable evening. Jazz clubs and crowded bar rooms. Low light and blue smoke. Sexy and suave ... old delta blues, swing, jazz, and ragtime. Blue Moon Marquee is a Gypsy Blues band born of the wild rose country. They currently make their home in an island shack on the coast of the Salish Sea. A.W. Cardinal (vocals/guitar) and Jasmine Colette, aka Badlands Jass (vocals/ bass/drums), write and perform original compositions influenced by anything that swings, jumps or grooves. Advance tickets are $20 at Eventbrite or $25 at the door. Here are more events happening at the Osborne Bay Pub De-

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cember 2019 and January 2020. • Friday, December 20, 8 pm, Daniel Wesley with David Bitonti, advance tickets $25 at Showpass or $30 at door. • Tuesday, December 31, New Year’s Eve three-course dinner ($40) at 7 pm or 8 pm, followed by live music ($25) from The David Gogo Band at 9 pm, with party favours and midnight champagne. • Saturday, January 11, 8 pm, Arbutus Roots with Vogue Villains, advance tickets $15 at Eventbrite or the pub. • Saturday, January, 8 pm, 5 Whiskeys Deep, Lazy Mike and Carson Mallon, tickets $10 at the door. • Friday, January 24, 7 pm, Lazy Mike and Carson Mallon, no cover. • Saturday, January 24, 6 pm, Cuban Vancouver Island Baseball Journey Society, tickets $25. For more information visit, osbornebaypub.com.

Sipping Society Ladysmith Little Theatre production of the “The Savannah Sipping Society,” continues until December 15. Directed by Torry Clark, this is a delightful, laugh-a-minute comedy. Four Southern women are drawn together by a happy hour. Filled with laughter, hilarious misadventures and the occasional liquid refreshment, these middle-aged women discover lasting friendships and a renewed determination to live in the moment. Tickets can be purchased at the Box Oﬃce (250-9240658; or online at www.ladysmiththeatre.com.

Sipping Society cast members.Photo: Mike Dietrich

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Discovering The Artist Within Many moons ago, I remember asking the person standing next to me at an artist’s studio party if he did anything that was artistic. He replied that he didn’t do anything artistic because he was only a gardener. I replied that I was also a gardener, but that I experienced gardening as painting in 3D. By considering design, shapes, colours and combinations, I would create the garden of my dreams, but as a garden is continually growing and changing, it becomes an ongoing living work of art. I have always been envious of artists. They take their talent for granted. It

must be the way their brains are wired that enables them to envisage a work of art and translate it onto canvas. I grew up being denied the pleasure of playing with paints and colours, as my houseproud mother never allowed us to muck about and make a mess in our home, and she was always too busy to play with us. The school I attended did not have an art teacher, so I went through life feeling very limited in artistic experience. I remember Laurel Hibbert at Arts on the Avenue in Ladysmith saying to me that all I had to do to be an artist was to pick up a brush and start painting, and I found this hard to believe. Her paintings are such fun that I am most envious of her. This year I was tempted to follow her advice, so I daringly signed up for twelve weeks of beginner art classes for seniors at the Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery. The day before the first class, I realized that I was experiencing trepidation. My mind was reeling with, “What if I can’t paint? What if I make a fool of myself? This could be SO embarrassing!” In retirement, I crave doing things I’ve never done before. I understand that my brain is neuroplastic and will develop new pathways when asked to learn. I view my foray into the artist’s world as a way of discovering more about myself and the way I see the world. What will the subject of my paintings be? Which techniques will I be drawn to using? What will my art say about me? This is the first step of an exciting journey, one that I eagerly anticipate for results. “Leave your adult at the door, bring in

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your six-year-old and just have FUN!” said Barry Thompson, my art instructor. My anxiety shifted a notch. First draw circles. OK, I can do that. Now draw contours of an object from your purse. I chose my car keys. Draw the outline without looking at the keys and then turn the paper around and draw them again, so there are four images, one on each side of the paper. Now repeat that on canvas and paint in the shapes that result, taking hues, values and intensity into account. Oh oh, here we go! It is seven weeks later, and I have discovered that I just love painting. It’s almost as if I had been starved of playing with shapes and colours. Once I settle down to painting, which I now do every day, my mind is still and the hours just slip away. Instead of telling myself, “I can’t”, I say, “I’ll try and see what happens.” I move the judgmental part of me out of the way. My inner child is having a blast! Barry told us that he often has five paintings on the go, which he revisits at least six times each before they are completed. I felt ecstatic at the notion of just completing a first painting. When I stepped away from my first finished painting, I felt reassured that there was a potential artist locked away in me somewhere. Eventually I had several canvasses completed, each one teaching me new techniques and testing my skill. Of course, the subject matter is mostly botanical, as I am at home in the realm of nature, but now I am seeing the world through the lens of a paintbrush, and I often say to myself as I observe the contours and colours of clouds, trees, ocean and mountainscapes, “That would make a wonderful painting.” Laurel was right. Discovering the artist within only involves picking up a paintbrush, and a new world of pleasure and expression opens up. Better late than never! Happy New Year 2020. The Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery has been moved to South Davis Road School, 444 Parkhill Terrace, South Ladysmith. Carolyn Herriot is author of The Zero Mile Diet, A Year Round Guide to Growing Organic Food and The Zero Mile Diet Cookbook, Seasonal Recipes for Delicious Homegrown Food (Harbour Publishing) available at your local bookstore.

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BY MARINA SACHT This month we continue looking at some of the volunteer opportunities in our communities. It is well-documented that people who are involved with their community, are not ony happier, but healthier and live better, longer lives. Time is the greatest gift you can give, yet in giving we get back tenfold. In this and future editions of TAKE 5 we will be highlighting volunteer opportunities within local service clubs, and not-for-profit groups. There is a wide range of clubs, groups and organizations that have one thing in

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Volunteers at the Ladysmith Healthcare Auxillary Gift Shop at the Ladysmith Health Care Centre. Photo: Ruth Goodbody

common -- they all need volunteers. If you have a few hours a month that you can spare please, contact us so we

can add you to our Volunteer Match list. Please specify any area of interest, skills or time, dates availablity and we will

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match you up. It’s that easy. Email editor@take5.ca or drop by our oﬃce to fill out a form.

Ladysmith Healthcare Auxiliary BY RUTH GOODBODY The Ladysmith Healthcare Auxiliary began in 1909 as a small group of local women donating their services to perform various tasks at the local hospital. Over the years, the organization and functions of the auxiliary progressed and expanded from in-hospital help and small fundraising events to become a vibrant community entity with over 250 members that operates various healthcare associated programs. Bake sales and bazaars have given way to one of the best thrift stores on the island, as well as a well-stocked gift shop located in the Ladysmith Community Health Centre (1111 4th Ave., Ladysmith). The Gift Shop has been a part of the Ladysmith Community Health Centre since it was a fully-functioning hospital. It started as a service enterprise for patients and their families using the hospital. It was originally located in a tiny space where the “quiet” room is now situated. Snacks, such as pop, potato chips, candy bars, magazines and newspapers, were oﬀered by candy stripers wheeling these goods on a cart. Children were often provided with colouring books and crayons. However, hand-knitted and crocheted items for purchase, lovingly crafted by local ladies, were always a staple of the Gift Shop. Children from the nearby school would often pop by — then known as the “Tuck Shop” — to buy their afternoon treats and mill around to socialize. When the extended care facility was created, the Gift Shop became a welcoming social hub where seniors could purchase their treats and socialize with volunteers. The Gift Shop eventually moved to its present location in the Ladysmith Community Health Centre — to the left as you enter the main door of the facility. It is now a small but viable entity, under the auspices of the Ladysmith Healthcare Auxiliary, whose proceeds are directed toward health and wellnessrelated initiatives in the Ladysmith and area communities. The Gift Shop oﬀers a small staple of snacks and goodies, but its claim to

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fame is the treasure-trove of reasonably priced and beautifully handcrafted knitted, crocheted and quilted items, Christmas decorations and seasonal articles, cloth bags, socks, toques, blankets and handmade kitchen items, such as cotton washcloths, potato jackets and casserole carriers, among other locally crafted and items. Life in the Gift Shop changed abruptly when, on July 26, 2019, it was forced to close due to a random act of vandalism. Vandals sprayed shop items with a fire extinguisher, covering surfaces with a toxic dust that resulted in a complete loss of foodstuﬀs, baby and children’s articles, and handmade blankets and crafts. Some articles were cleaned and deemed saleable by the restoration company. However, many more items were destroyed. Good news has come out of this story, however, as thanks to the unbelievable support of the Ladysmith and surrounding communities, the Gift Shop was able to reopen with the help of hardworking volunteers, generous and lavish donations of wool, hand-knitted baby outfits and blankets, toques, socks and quilted items. The outpouring of generosity to re-stock the store came from as far as from Seattle, Washington — and the inventory in the Gift Shop has never been as plentiful. We are grateful to the Ladysmith community for its unwavering support! Please contact them to volunteer.

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Citizens on Patrol BY HARALD COWIE “The police can’t be everywhere,” says Jim Hall, Ladysmith Citizens on Patrol (LCOPS) Speed Watch Coordinator. That’s where this hard-working group comes in. Ladysmith Citizens on Patrol (LCOP) was started in 1993 by a group of volunteers from the Community Policing Program at the request of the Community Police Advisory board. One of the first tasks they undertook was patrolling the streets of Ladysmith on Halloween night. At one point during the evening, one of the cars was called to the hospital (now the Ladysmith Community Health Centre), and on their way, they spotted a fire started by some youth. The LCOP volunteers quickly put out the fire and saved the owners from a potential disaster. LCOP works with the local RCMP detachment and act as extra eyes and ears, reporting suspicious events to the police. Patrols are mainly on Friday and Saturday evenings, but may also take place at other times, at the request of the RCMP. LCOP, in conjunction with ICBC, also performs speed watch deployments throughout the community. Speed signs and radar signboards, provided by ICBC, are set up to make drivers aware of how fast they are travelling. Distracted driving can also be noted. Along with the patrols and speed watch deployments, the volunteers also assist with traﬃc/parking control at events within the town. The Friday and Saturday patrols are typically four hours in length, using the Town of Ladysmith-provided van manned by two volunteers. the speed watch deployments, during the day, last approximately two hours. For Hall, the camaraderie with fellow members as well as getting to know the community has been a deeply rewarding experience. To volunteer, you must be aged 19 or older and complete a criminal record check to join LCOP. If you are interested in joining Ladysmith Citizens on Patrol, application forms can be picked up at the RCMP detachment or call 250-714-3510. Jim Hall of Ladysmith Citizens On Patrol (COPS) at the Holland Creek Park, one of the troublesome area's when it comes to speeding. Photo: Harald Cowie.

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The woolly bear that I spotted was the larvae of the spotted tussock moth or yellow-spotted tiger moth, Lophocampa maculata. “Tussock” means a compact tuft, often of grasses or sedges, thus the moth is named after the “tufts of hair” on the caterpillar, and hence also called a woolly bear caterpillar.

Wildwood Ramble BY S. MIMICK, WILDWOOD NATURALIST The other week, I was wandering through the old growth forest at Wildwood Ecoforest, delighting in the beginning of fall. The forest’s huge big-leaf maple leaves were starting to turn colours and cover the ground. Mushrooms were beginning to show their variedshaped fruiting bodies, and evergreen needles from the towering western redcedar and Douglas-fir trees were swaying in the crisp autumn wind.

Tiger Moth. Photo: S. Mimick

I turned a corner when, all of a sudden, I saw a bear. The bear was crossing the trail in front of me, moving at a fairly brisk pace. It did not seem concerned that I was there, so I stopped to observe it. I was struck by its thick fuzziness, its black and reddish-brown fur, and its determination to reach a destination. I was captivated by this bear; as for me, it was another enchanting feature of the fall season. This bear, however, might not be what you are expecting, as it was not a black bear, but instead a woolly bear — a woolly bear caterpillar. Woolly bear caterpillars are the larvae of tiger moths, of which in North America, there are over 250 species. Different species have slightly different colourings and bristles of different lengths.

Woolly bear caterpillar are the larvae of tiger moth. Photo: S. Mimick

While there are many diﬀerent species of tiger moths, one thing they all have in common is the caterpillar’s amazing ability to survive the winter. It is not often we see caterpillars in the fall, but these fuzzy wee woolly bears are out and about because they are on the hunt for the perfect site to overstay the cold weather. Woolly bears may travel almost two kilometres in search of a protected area to hunker down and hibernate. They not only travel far, but can also move approximately four feet in one minute, a speed considered fast in the caterpillar world. While on the move in the fall, their fuzziness, made up of hairs known as setae, keep them warm. These setae also can serve for defense, as when touched, they can cause irritation to the skin of an animal, including humans. Once they reach their overwintering spots, they freeze their entire bodies completely solid. Within their tissues and blood, they hold a natural antifreeze or cryoprotectant that allows them to thaw and transform into a moth in the spring. To successfully survive the long winter, however, woolly bears need the right habitat for hibernation. They need leaf litter, wood log coverings and a sheltered spot from wind and predators. All of these features can be found many times over throughout the 77 acres of old growth forest at Wildwood.

RDN Area A Cedar This issue of TAKE 5 may be a good time to look back on my first year as the director for Area A. There have been some small accomplishments, some partial wins and some frustrations, with the snail-like pace of progress in local government! I consider the expansion of transit to South Wellington and Cassidy a big win for our area. While I didn’t have a lot to do with that success, I did make sure that the issue didn’t fall through the cracks when transit expansion was the topic of conversation at the RDN. I look forward to hearing the thoughts of residents in South Wellington and Cassidy after the service has run for a while — let me know how it’s working for you. Partial wins include putting forward two resolutions that went to the RDN board and were approved. They then moved to the Association of Vancouver Island Coastal Communities annual meeting where they were passed by regional local government representatives, and from there, they moved on to the Union of BC Municipalities annual convention. They were also supported by local government elected oﬃcials from across the province at that meeting. Both were related to improving safety for people engaged in active transportation (that’s government-speak for transportation where the mode of power is

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the person themselves, so walking, running, riding a bicycle, pushing a stroller, etc.) on our narrow country roads. The first resolution called for the Province to develop new standards for traffic calming on rural roads so that people using the roads for active transportation were at less risk of injury or death. The second resolution went through the same process. It dealt with increasing resources to provide improved enforcement of traffic infractions in rural areas, specifically mentioning unchecked speeding, reckless driving and illegal parking on rural roads. Both of these resolutions now move to be discussed with the provincial government. We’ll see what happens. ... My time as director is typically spent on meetings at the RDN, meetings about the RDN, meetings with residents and responding to the concerns of Area A residents. A notable chunk of the time is focused on trying to help residents with their issues and concerns. This is where the frustration comes into play. The Regional District of Nanaimo has very little control over what happens in our area outside of planning and development, so in issues pertaining to roads, traffic, noise from machinery, development plans in neighbouring jurisdictions, derelict properties, agricultural odours and noise and a host of other things, the RDN has little power to set things right. I realize at the time that I

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am providing no help in many of the issues that residents bring to my attention because there is little that I can do. I hate the situation I find myself in: another government representative blaming other levels of government for not solving the problem! And I haven’t found a solution to this challenge so far. I look forward to the challenges facing the RDN and its directors in 2020. I thank everyone who has stopped me for a chat at the 49th when I’m getting groceries or in Coco Café when I’m having lunch. In the future, if you see me at a community event or a meeting, feel free to come up and introduce yourself. And, I wish you and your family and friends all the best for the Christmas holiday season. Have fun and be safe.

CVRD Area H N. Oyster/ Diamond December Alternate Directors Report- Colin Haime This month’s main topics of concern were budgets, climate change and taxation. The past month has encompassed a number of meetings related to the presentation of the draft 2020 Budget by staﬀ. Prior to my increased involvement, the board directed staﬀ prepared a core budget based on the principles of the maintenance of existing services and a maximum increase of 2.5 per cent

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in taxation. Other changes, such as increased service levels, were to be presented as “supplemental requests” and to be prioritized as Tier 1, 2 or 3 items, with Tier 1 being the highest priority. The initial increase for Area H was 2.13 per cent based on the core budget. One of the biggest challenges with a regional district budget is that each area cannot fully decide their own level of taxation. Many services are shared among the electoral areas and, therefore, determined by a vote of all electoral areas. As a result, while the direction to staff was for a 2.5 per cent increase, in reality the increases for the individual areas will differ. The consideration of the specific budget areas has resulted in the Committee’s recommendation of a number of the supplemental requests being incorporated into the budget, which will increase the taxation of Area H. While all requests have support in terms of reasoning, there seems to be a disconnect between ability to pay and the related increase in the budget. This is not staff ’s responsibility, but rather the directors. Personally, I cannot support increases in

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the budget that far exceed inflation. As the demands on governments expand, the budgets do as well. In my opinion, local governments need to reevaluate the objectives and concentrate the resources on specific areas rather than trying to be everything regardless of how worthwhile the pursuits may appear. For example, 10 years ago, there was a push in regional districts to fund the purchase of land for recreational and aesthetic reasons. The decision making was that this was a worthwhile pursuit, and I do not dispute that as a concept. The challenge is that the operations/ maintenance of such assets and the related cost are becoming a larger part of the budget, requiring more management and maintenance just to maintain what exists. This requires not only existing funding, but increased funding. New demands for funding have arisen. Provincial Asset Management requirements, regional recreation, climate change adaptation and mitigation, changing technology and other new pursuits are requiring funding out of the same bucket. I ex-

pect to see an increase in tax collected that significantly exceeds the guideline of 2.5 per cent. This is not sustainable, but there is no end in sight. Increasing demands on government, as well as the tendency to take on new projects, leads to a runaway financial picture. I think it is time for local governments to re-focus and to recognize the limitations of the property tax model by focusing on the basic service model of local government rather than trying to be all things to all people. Water — Too much or too Little or both? In November, I met with approximately 25 members of the Yellow Point Ecological Society (yellowpointecologicalsociety.ca/). My thanks to Guy Dauncey for hosting the evening. It was an opportunity for the members to meet me for the first time and to share ideas/ concerns regarding the Area H past and future. Especially prevalent were concerns around climate change and its effects on the environment and residents. Water is a particular challenge. Interrelated to this was a discussion related to

development, its form in the past/future and related concerns. Related to water consumption, the effects of changing weather patterns and development are increasingly causing events whereby aquifer capacity decreases, with wells having reduced water levels or, in some cases, going dry. Some of these events are caused by historical planning decisions, inadequate infrastructure or changing climatic conditions. Regardless of the cause, people look to government for solutions. Potential solutions include conservation, new infrastructure, new source identification and new partnerships and development methods. These solutions are costly and place further demands on an already stretched financing bucket. At the same time, there is the threat of more extreme weather events that create flooding and erosion, with health and safety concerns that come along with this. For example, if you go to the website maintained by a group called Climate Central (coastal.climatecentral. org), they have a coastal risk screening tool that attempts to predict localized flooding by the year 2050. I am not a scientist, and while I cannot judge the complete accuracy of their predictions, it certainly is cause for concern. Significant areas of the coastal areas of the CVRD, including river estuaries, may be under threat of annualized flooding beyond what already occurs. Again people will look to the government for solutions and mitigation measures. These will be costly. The extent of budgetary impacts of addressing water supply, as well as water event mitigation measures that are potentially upcoming, have not been fully factored in in my opinion. If we

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have committed all our taxing capability to existing projects/infrastructure, where will the funding come from for these required initiatives? I think time is required to determine and refine our priorities. If climate change is going to be addressed, not only must we have a comprehensive, realistic strategy to meet the challenge, but also a realistic sustainable financial plan. I am not sure the political will exists to make these hard decisions currently. At the November 13th, 2019 board meeting, the CVRD board (including myself) voted to acknowledge that there is a climate emergency. I struggled with the term “emergency” because I believe it raises expectations that immediate actions are to be taken, but there was no substance or action plan attached to the motion itself. For the most part, at this time, it is a symbolic vote in my opinion. While needed, I think further strategies and resources are required to address the implications, costs and measures to turn this motion into concrete actions. North Oyster–Diamond Ratepayers Association I met with some members of the newly re-constituted North Oyster-Diamond Ratepayer’s Association. My thanks to Bill Carter for hosting the gathering. As is common these days, this gathering allowed me to introduce myself to the members and jointly have a discussion related to issues within Area H. Similar to most residents, a concern is budgets/ taxation. It was good discussion from my standpoint, and I appreciate the resident’s willingness to engage in productive dialogue, including the sharing of information and history. Next Month’s Take 5? If there is a

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topic you would like me to report on or have questions, please email me at colinhaime@shaw.ca.

CVRD Area G Saltair Seasons Greetings to all Area G Saltair/Gulf Islands residents. This is the time of year when my family is on the hunt for perfect gifts. The rules are quite simple. We must make a gift or buy one for less than $10 at a Christmas craft fair. My two youngest grandchildren and I are making “Quilly Snowman” Christmas tree ornaments as gifts. We also do cookie exchanges. Throughout the year, I collect toys. I put them away for drop-off at different locations to support others within the CVRD areas. The food banks can always use extra supplies at this time of year, and a financial donation is always appreciated. Winter is just around the corner. Last year, we received a wake-up call on December 20 and 21. Are we prepared to hunker down in place for seven or more days without power this year? What if we are not home and unable to get home? Will you have a go bag with you? What might your neighbours need? I recommend working through the Emergency Preparedness Workbook that has been put together by Mid Island Emergency Coordinators & Managers. These workbooks can be picked-up at the Coffee Shack (10862 Chemainus Rd.). While you are there, have a cup of coffee or tea and one of their tasty treats. Mainroad Mid-Island Contracting (24-hour Hotline 1-877-215-6006) Recently, I attended a Mainroad workshop. A few tidbits of gleaned information are: (1) Salt brine is best for snow and ice removal in the Island climate. (2) If the road is shiny and you are not getting any moisture on your windshield, it is likely black ice. (3) This year Mainroad has additional equipment and salt locations. (4) Check your vehicle lights, winter tires, windshield wipers and window washer fluid for winter driving. (5) Before heading out, visit DriveBC.ca for current conditions and ShiftIntoWinter. ca for tips about ways to prepare yourself and vehicle, and how to drive safely on winter roads. (6) For B.C. weather warnings, call 1-800-550-4997. Saltair Centennial Park Halloween EVENT

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Thank you to the Saltair Association for Local Teamwork (SALT) for hosting a great event. The SALT team of volunteers has stepped forward to preserve the traditional events we, as a community, have participated in for many years. The feedback about the fireworks is they were the best. By becoming a SALT member, you will help fund the events we all enjoy in Saltair Centennial Park. Additional thanks to all those who made financial donations. Your generosity demonstrates the wonderful community spirit we have in Saltair. Regional Recreation CVRD staﬀ will present documents for discussions and decisions by the CVRD directors about governance and implementation for nine regionally significant recreation facilities: Kerry Park Recreation Centre, Shawnigan Lake Community Centre, Cowichan Community Centre, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, Cowichan Aquatic Centre, Cowichan Sportsplex, Cowichan Lake Recreation, Fuller Lake Arena and Frank Jameson Community Centre. The usage data with respect to these facilities was gathered in 2016 and 2017. Things have changed since then. There are still lots of questions to be answered. The Saltair Community Centre has not been identified as a regionally significant recreation facility. Saltair Parks & Trails The CVRD Centennial Park Survey and the Saltair Community Parks Advisory Commission Survey results should be available shortly. As a community, this will give us an idea of where our community parks tax revenue should be spent. The results will give the community something to build towards regarding

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the future maintenance and replacement of current park assets. They will help us make decisions about building, replacing or removing park assets in the future as they reach the end of their life cycle. Only Saltair taxpayers fund the operation and maintenance of Stocking Creek Park, Diana Princess of Wales Wilderness Park, Centennial Park and six beach accesses in Saltair. The Cowichan Valley Trail is a CVRD regional park funded by all CVRD taxpayers. Saltair Water System Filtration – New Grant Opportunity

A new grant has been announced by the BC Ministry of Municipal Aﬀairs and Housing. A window for grant applications will open on October 30th and close on February 26th, 2020. This is great news for Saltair taxpayers as we work towards funding Island Health’s mandated filtration system. If you have any questions and/or comments, please contact me: lynne.smith@ cvrd.bc.ca or 250-701-1407. Additional articles and information can always be found on the Saltair News & Views website at www.saltairnews.com.

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Hey, I’ve got a great idea! “It’s a woman’s prerogative to change her mind.” — Anonymous That quote is old. My mom used to say it, and I suspect her mom did too. And try as I might, I can’t seem to find the person responsible for coining it. Plus, I can’t tell whether it is a backhanded compliment or a sexist insult. But whatever the case, I am that there woman. Take this TAKE 5, it being a double issue, December–January, spanning Christmas, New Year’s (and a leap year to boot), as well as that special day on December 11th — which gave me lots of musings and memories to expound upon. And truth be told, I had threequarters of my prose done when events transpired to change this woman’s mind ... again! Even with my own stories to tell, I must admit that over the last two years, I have been getting a lot of inspiration from Laurie’s notes and Another Beautiful Day submissions. And that is where I found this month’s fodder — so inspirational, so genuine, so appropriate.

Here’s how it was supposed to start; and I’m telling you now because I can’t promise that I could save this until the same time next year. The quote was going to be his. And it was to start thusly: “All would be better off if each person took into account the effect of his or her acts upon others.” — World Commission on Environment & Development (Our Common Future, 1986) A long time ago (not really, I’m talking the turn of the century and then a further decade and a half), there was a familiar scene: Laurie looks at me and says those words that I’ve come to know quite well, at times striking fear and trepidation in my heart (but in retrospect what I wouldn’t give to hear him say those words again), “Hey, I’ve got a great idea!” And yes, truth be told, they were always great ideas. Making them a reality could take some doing, but he would be up for the challenge, and I was always there as his trusty sidekick. He wanted to put in a submission to Norway’s former prime minister Gro Bruntland’s historic World Commission on Environment and Development. At that time, the term “sustainable development” was met with great guffaws and derision, and Laurie’s term “sustainable community development” put him waaaay out there ... but then so did talk of climate change, and we all know the naked truth behind that now! That was 1985 and indeed it was a great idea. By the following year, on December 11th, 1986, the UN formally adopted Bruntland’s report, “Our Common Future.” And for many years, Laurie championed for cities, towns, regions and the province to proclaim December 11th as “A Day For Our Common Future.” He was met this time with great success, and not one raised eyebrow. Okay, this is where I made an abrupt

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halt, just before I got to the part about communities, giving and New Year’s resolutions. I had to make some Nanaimo bars and shortbread for the Cedar– Yellow Point Christmas Tour. The Cedar Woman’s Institute has a great little spot at the Heritage Centre all set out, coffee, tea and hot apple cider, our sumptuous baking and remarkable crafts ... you know the drill. And time got away from me, and I was going to be late with this still unfinished article. So I decided if I made an extra batch of shortbread and delivered it to TAKE 5 head-down, all apologetic and asked for an extra day to get this piece in, would that suﬃce? It did alright. And then it happened again. I changed my mind. My prerogative. I blame it on Marina. A recipe worth circulating, she said. Methinks it might make a great Christmas submission, the Cambuslang Gal’s Scottish Shortbread recipe. It only took me 40 years of whining to get it from her. I’m so sure that both she and her sweet son would be just fine with me sharing it. So here ye be. And a Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones.

Violet Gourlay’s Scottish Shortbread Ingredients: 1/2 lb. (1 cup) butter 1/2 cup fruit sugar 1 and 1/4 cup white flour 1/2 cup rice flour 1/4 cup cornstarch Cream in blender butter and sugar, then add in other dry ingredients. On wax paper, roll two long logs; roll each separately in wax paper. Stuﬀ the roll into an empty paper towel roll (twirling it as it goes in helps). Put the roll in fridge for one or two hours or even overnight. Cut cold the hard log with sharp thin knife half an inch thick. With the oven at 325 F, place in the roll middle rack for 16 to 18 minutes. Makes 30 cookies. Enjoy the holidays! Jackie Moad will be sharing shortbread on December 11th, in honour of Our Common Future, all the while working that 20-acre organic farm, busy hatching a plan for local soluƟons to global challenges.

TAKE 5

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Feeding our seniors BY CHEF MICHAEL SMITH For t i f y i ng our bodies and minds with healthy food and engaging conversation is critical to elevating the daily life of seniors. And when it comes to ensuring seniors gain the utmost enjoyment of their food, we need to pay close attention to how we respond to each of their five senses. It’s no surprise that, as we age, our senses change. A research project by Sodexo and the University of Ottawa called the Five Senses Study was initiated to develop best practices to support seniors. The study focused on ensuring that the tastes, smells, sights, sounds

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and touches they experience everyday translate into improved quality of life and well-being. The issue of food and aging is close to my heart, not only because I’m a chef, but because my dad lives in an assisted living facility. Fortunately, he resides in a residence that takes food, nutrition and fellowship very seriously. By being intentional and considering how we feed our seniors’ souls, minds and bodies, we can enhance their quality of life. The Five Senses Study sends a clear message about seniors’ care: simple things make all the diﬀerence. Taste, of course, is the sense we think of most when we talk about food. And while routine and familiar foods can be comforting, introducing new flavours, spices and ingredients keep things interesting. We also need to think about temperature and texture, and pay attention to what our palettes respond to, whether it be sweet, savoury, spicy or sour. Aromas are the quickest way to send our minds back to childhood. For me, whenever I pull a carrot out of the ground on my PEI farm, I think of my grandma. From the smell of the soil, I can taste the flavour of the carrot before I’ve even washed it. As we age, our sense of smell often diminishes, lessening our ability to taste. In retirement facilities, an open kitchen area helps residents better smell food — which can stimulate appetite. Seniors with low vision often have difficulty distinguishing between similar

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colours. Long-term care communities can compensate with meals featuring high-contrast colours to help residents see the diﬀerent items on their plates. We know there is a direct correlation between a colourful diet and healthy eating. In general terms, the more colourful the plate, the more nutritious it is. A beautifully laid out salad bar, for example, is full of colour, textures and stimulating taste combinations. Hearing loss is an issue for many of our seniors. By minimizing background noise from heating and cooling systems, equipment and cleaning services, we make it easier for residents to connect with a conversation. The fifth sense is, of course, touch. When preparing meals for seniors, paying attention to the texture of food and how it feels in our mouth is important. A good balance of crunchy vegetables, nutty whole grains, silky soups and tender lean proteins makes for a more interesting meal experience. One thing I know with certainty is that who’s at the table is every bit as important as what’s on the table. The act of sharing, passing the bread, connecting with each other as we touch our glasses and celebrate the bounty of food is wonderful for the soul. I learned the power of the table from my father and for that, I am forever grateful. Chef Michael Smith, one of Canada’s best-known chef has been an active supporter of Sodexo’s Stop Hunger Foundation for 15 years.

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Seraphina’s Oven schedule Seraphina’s Oven culinary school, has launched a new schedule for winter and spring 2019/20. The new line-up includes Mediterranean Desserts, Baking with Ancient Grains and a 2-day Kids’ Baking Camp (during spring break). Seraphina has paired up with Ladysmith Parks and Recreation to oﬀer a Pizza Workshop and the popular Sourdough and Artisan Baking Course. Seraphina’s woodfired brick oven has been blazing away and courses continue throughout the spring with two Italian cooking classes, Tea Pastries to Impress, and repeats of the Sourdough, Croissant, Chocolate and Macaron workshops. Seraphina’s also oﬀers custom training and private workshops, and gift certificates are also available.

New second location for popular creperie Dina Stuehler, owner of Ironworks Cafe & Creperie in Ladysmith, is going to be even busier with her second location at 64 Station Street in Duncan. “Everything is progressing along nicely. We are currently working on decor and building the furniture.” “The new eatery will have a healthy choices menu, for guests looking at healthier alternatives. This is an additional menu to all the items we already oﬀer, which has options like lean meats, lots of veggies and high protein. As well, we will have a more extensive vegan menu and a gluten-free menu,” says Dina. The cafe may be the only restaurant in the area to oﬀer a full keto menu too, which is also available at Ladysmith cafe.

The intelligence of a three-year-old IMPORTANT PRESS RELEASE: Vicious rumours continue to circulate that I have the intelligence level of a threeyear-old. This is, of course, absolutely ridiculous, and I categorically deny it. That I am not as smart as a five-year-old is a little harder to deny, mainly because it’s true. While I’m at it, I’ll squash another belief and that is, grandchildren are nice. Oh they’re cuddly enough and cute, but nice? I don’t think so. For example, they always want to play with you. Not out of friendship or because no one else will play with you, but because they can spot a loser. What

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they’re after is someone to humiliate, some old guy they can kick the snot out of. Someone to beat so badly they’ll never show their face at the Snakes and Ladders pit ever again. And they’ll administer this beating at seven in the morning, despite the Geneva Convention rules prohibiting hostilities until all the coﬀee is gone. Nice? Phooey! Also, the little rotters are not above stacking the deck. They’ll choose games you know nothing about. Dinosaur jigsaw puzzles for example. It’s been years since I’ve seen a dinosaur. How am I supposed to remember what its head looked like? Okay, the Classic Car puzzle didn’t work out as I’d planned. Sorry about taking the scissors to the roof of the ʼ57 Chevy, but in my era, customizing was in. Everything this side of a wheel barrow was chopped and channelled. And using the hammer on the Edsel? That’s how they got things to fit at the factory. I was halfway through the car puzzle when I realized I’d been had. It was a classic example of home court advan-

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tage. THEY HAD DONE THE PUZZLES BEFORE! Maybe a million times; that’s why they could breeze through them. Next up was the memory game, where my education was a disadvantage. I went to the Sherlock Holmes School of Memory. There you’re taught not to clutter up your brain with trivia. Instead, the brain is kept empty, unencumbered, so it can get to the task of understanding life’s mysteries (such as, why does the house get so messy when my wife is away?). The Sherlock Holmes method allows you to concentrate on the important issues, which, as soon as I remember what they are, I’ll get back to you. I can get away with this because I have an additional memory bank — my wife. She remembers the small stuﬀ for me: the date, my name, our children’s names, the location of my wallet and car keys, and when I forget her birthday, the phone number of the marriage counsellor. Do not consider any of the above an excuse. Merely background to better understand my poor performance at a

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game that involves sixty or so cards with animals on them. The cards are dealt face down, and the idea is to turn over two that match. If no pair results, the card is turned back over and the next player goes. The idea being to memorize the identity and location of every card turned over so that you’ll remember that the mate to the goldfish you’re holding in your hand is hiding three rows over, two cards down. Well, I don’t know how they did it, mirrors maybe, but it was uncanny how good they were at this game. I suspected they were cheating, but I couldn’t figure out how. It was like they had x-ray vision and could see through the cards. When I presented these suspicions to the eldest, he let me down gently. “Gramps,” he said, “we haven’t had to cheat to beat you in over a year.” That’s when I threw the towel in. But fair being fair, it was now my turn to choose a game. “Get ready for a thrashing,” I said. “We’re going to play an adult game. It’s called Anatomy. I ask the questions, you supply the answers. First question: What happens when you unscrew your belly button?” They didn’t have a clue. “Easy,” I said. “Your bum falls oﬀ. What did you think was going to happen?” Being true to our gender the three of us cracked up. Definition of male humour. Anything with the word “bum” in it. “Grampa,” the youngest one said, “that’s a joke, right?” “What? You think I’m selling you a load of bum juice?” No sooner than it was out of my mouth did I realize it was a

mistake. That’s because Poobottom the Younger was a staunch believer in the “Make The Language Yours” doctrine, the basic principle being that repetition is the road to mastery. That only by using the word or phrase over and over again, as every part of speech this side of a gerund, will the new word become a working member of your vocabulary. And if there was one thing Poobottom the Younger excelled at, it was repetition. If this happens to you, run, don’t walk to the liquor store for a delicious French red, L’Olivette, only $16.99. Hold on, better make that two. And that’s no load of bum juice. Follow Delbert at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com or pick up his book Slightly Corked at Mahle House, CoCo Cafe and the TAKE 5 oﬃce..

DECEMBER 1 – 8

Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-748-7529

Meditation Retreat, Bethlehem Centre, 2371 Arbot Rd., Nanaimo, 250-754-3254

5, 6pm–8pm, Michael Clarke Live, the Maya Norte, 18 Roberts St., Ladysmith

7, 2pm–6pm, Wheaty Food Bank Drive, 2 Man Wheaty Band & friends & Wreath Making, Wheatsheaf Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd., Cedar

10, 12-2pm, LDHS Christmas Social, Ladysmith Archives below Tim Horton’s 250-245-0100

5, 6:30pm, Family Christmas Dinner, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd., Nanaimo, 250-245-5157 5-7, 7:30pm, “The Savannah Sipping Society,” Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., Ladysmith, 250-924-0658 6, 1pm–5pm, Bagels, Pita, Flatbreads, Pide and Pizza Two-day Workshop, $175, Seraphina’s Oven, 11286 Green Hill Dr., Ladysmith, 250-6194464 6, 5pm–8pm, Old Time Christmas, Downtown Ladysmith 6, 7pm, Tempo Dance Academy presents “The Grinch Returns,” The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550 7, 8am–12:30pm, 15th Annual LaFF Breakfast with Santa, two seating’s $10, Aggie Hall, 1st Ave., Ladysmith, 250-210-0870 7, 9am–3pm, Christmas Craft Fair at Providence Farm, Providence Farm, 1843 Tzouhalem Rd., Duncan, 250-746-4204 7, 9am–4pm, Bagels, Pita, Flatbreads, Pide and Pizza Two-day Workshop, $175, Seraphina’s Oven, 11286 Green Hill Dr., Ladysmith, 250-6194464 7-8, 10am–4pm, Nanaimo Artwalk, Downtown Nanaimo, www.nanaimoartwalk.com 7, 10am–8pm, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Presents a Christmas Nativity Exhibit (Creche), 2424 Glen Eagle Cres., Nanaimo 7, 11am–1:30pm, Christmas Bazaar, St. Michael & All Angels Anglican Church, 2858 Mill St., Chemainus 7, noon & 4pm, The Nutcracker, Cowichan

7, 3:30pm, Winter Harp, The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo 7, 9pm, Live Music - High Ground, Cranberry Arms Pub, 1604 Cedar Rd. 250-722-3113 8, 10am, Earth Lovers Listening Circle, Wildflower Natural Health, 512-1st Ave., Ladysmith 8, 10:30am, White Gift Sunday, Ladysmith First United, 232 High St., Ladysmith 8, 11am–3pm, Holiday Baking Class for Kids, $75, Seraphina’s Oven, 11286 Green Hill Dr., Ladysmith, 250-619-4464 8, 2pm, “The Savannah Sipping Society,” Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., Ladysmith, 250-924-0658

10, 7pm, Ladysmith Camera Club’s Annual General Meeting and Social, Hardwick Hall, High St. at 3rd Ave., Ladysmith 11, 9am–6pm, Holiday Baking Workshop, Seraphina’s Oven, 11286 Green Hill Dr., Ladysmith, 250-619-4464 11, 7pm–9pm, Open Session, Nanaimo Art Gallery, 150 Commercial St., Nanaimo 12, 4pm–9pm, Vancouver Island Market, Old Sears Building, Nanaimo North Town Centre, 4750 Rutherford Rd., Nanaimo 12, 6pm, RDN Transit Meeting, Western Maritime Institute, 3519 Hallberg Rd. 250-3904531 12, 6pm–8pm, Michael Clarke Live, the Maya Norte, 18 Roberts St., Ladysmith

8, 2pm, Harbour City Theatre Alliance presents “A Christmas Carol,” Harbour City Theatre, 25 Victoria Rd., Nanaimo

12-14, 7pm, Harbour City Theatre Alliance presents “A Christmas Carol,” Harbour City Theatre, 25 Victoria Rd., Nanaimo

8, 2pm, Winter Harp, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-748-7529

12-14, 7:30pm, “The Savannah Sipping Society,” Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., Ladysmith, 250-924-0658

8, 3pm, Yellow Point Singers’ concert “A MidWinter Night’s Dream,” Oceanview Community Church, 381 Davis Rd., Ladysmith 8, 3pm, A Mid-Winter Night’s Dream, Oceanview Community Church, 381 Davis Rd. Ladysmith 8, 3pm & 7:30pm, “O Christmas Tea-British Comedy,” Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton St., Victoria, jamesandjamesy.com

9 – 15 9, 6:30pm, Paint Night: Merry Mouse Visitor, Wheatsheaf Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd., Cedar 10–12, 10am-1pm, Two-and-a-half day Winter

12, 7.30pm, “O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy,” Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550 13, 9am–6pm, Holiday Baking , Seraphina’s Oven, 11286 Green Hill Dr., Ladysmith, 250-6194464 13, 10am–7pm, Vancouver Island Market, Old Sears Building, Nanaimo North Town Centre, 4750 Rutherford Rd., Nanaimo 13, 5pm–8pm, Late Night Shopping, Downtown Ladysmith 13-14, 6pm, Christmas dinner, Chemainus 55+ Activity Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus,

250-246-2111

Ladysmith, 250-924-0658

13, 7pm, Medley Café Open Mic, St. John’s Anglican Church, 486 Jubliee St., Duncan

15, 2pm, Harbour City Theatre Alliance presents “A Christmas Carol,” Harbour City Theatre, 25 Victoria Rd., Nanaimo

13, 7:30pm, Malaspina Choir’s 10th Annual Sing Along Messiah, St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 301 Machleary St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550 13,8pm, Blue Moon Marquee, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton, 250-324-2245

15, 2pm, Chemainus Classical Concerts: Eve Daniell, & Rykie Avenant, St. Michael’s Church, 2858 Mill St., Chemainus, 250-748-8383

19-20, 7:30pm, Nanaimo Theatre Group presents “Cinderella,” The Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo 20-21, 3pm & 7pm, Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular, Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550 20, 5pm–8pm, Late Night Shopping, Downtown Ladysmith

13, 9pm, Live Music - Korkscrew, Cranberry Arms Pub, 1604 Cedar Rd. 250-722-3113

15, 3pm, Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular, McPherson Playhouse, #3 Centennial Square, Victoria, 250-386-6121

14, 10am–6pm, Vancouver Island Market, Old Sears Building, Nanaimo North Town Centre, 4750 Rutherford Rd., Nanaimo

15, 7pm, A Nashville Christmas: Valerie Ransom & Friends, Oceanview Community Church, 381 Davis Rd., Ladysmith

14, 2pm–6pm, Lazy Mike Mallon, Wheatsheaf Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd., Cedar

15, 7:30pm, A WONDERHEADS Christmas Carol, Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550

21, 2pm–6pm, Music by Kelly and Jay and Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest, Wheatsheaf Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd., Cedar

16 – 22

21, 4:30pm, Longest Night/Blue Sunday, Ladysmith First United, 232 High St., Ladysmith 250-245-2183

14, 5:30pm–8pm, Mt. Breton Power & Sail Squadron Ladysmith Christmas Sail Past, Transfer Beach, Ladysmith, 250-245-8339 14, 7pm, A WONDERHEADS Christmas Carol, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-748-7529 14, 7:30pm, VI Symphony – Mistletoe & Magic! Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-7548550

16, 6:30pm, Paint Night: Cherry Cardinal, Fox and Hounds, 11 High St., Ladysmith 17, 6pm, RDN Transit Meeting, S. Wellington Community Hall, 1555 Morden Rd. 250-3904531

15, 10am, A Cowboy’s Christmas, St Philip Anglican Church, 1797 Cedar Rd. 250-722-3455

17-19, 7pm, Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular, Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-7548550

15, 10:30am, Poinsettia Memorial Sunday, Ladysmith First United, 232 High St., Ladysmith 250-245-2183

19, 10am, Carol Sing, Chemainus 55+ Activity Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, 250-2462111

15, 11am–5pm, Vancouver Island Market, Old Sears Building, Nanaimo North Town Centre, 4750 Rutherford Rd., Nanaimo

19, 6pm–8pm, Michael Clarke Live, the Maya Norte, 18 Roberts St., Ladysmith

15, 2pm, “The Savannah Sipping Society,” Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd.,

19, 6:30pm, Family Christmas Dinner, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd., 250-245-5157

20, 7:30pm, Nanaimo Theatre Group presents “Cinderella,” The Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo 20, 8pm, Daniel Wesley, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton 250-324-2245

21, 7pm, Christmas Eve Service, Ladysmith First United, 232 High St., Ladysmith 250-245-2183 21, 7:30pm, Buddy’s Holly Jolly Christmas, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-748-7529 22, 9:30am, Paper Bag Pageant, Cedar United Church 1644 Cedar Rd., Cedar, 250-893-3669 22, 1:30pm, Nanaimo Theatre Group presents “Cinderella,” The Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo

Dec 7 Winter Harp Dec 17 Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular Jan 20 Unikkaaqtuat

22, 3pm, Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular, Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-7548550 22, 4pm–9pm, Ladysmith Fire Rescue Santa Claus Parade, Ladysmith 22, 7pm, Frost & Flames: A Magical Celtic Christmas Family Concert, Cedar United Church, 1644 Cedar Rd., Cedar

23- 29 23–29, Chemainus 55+ Activity Centre is closed, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, 250-246-2111

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23, 7:30pm, Buddy’s Holly Jolly Christmas, Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550 24, 6pm, Christingle Family Worship, St Philip Anglican Church, 1797 Cedar Rd. 250-722-3455 24, 5:30pm–8pm, Christmas Eve in Ladysmith Service, Bethel Pentecostal Tabernacle, 1149 4th Ave., Ladysmith 24, 7pm, Christmas Eve Service, Cedar United Church, 1644 Cedar Rd., Cedar, 250-893-3669 24, 10pm, Christmas Candlelight Worship, St Philip Anglican Church, 1797 Cedar Rd. 250722-3455

DEC/JAN 2020

26, 1:30pm and 7:30pm, Nanaimo Theatre Group presents “Cinderella,” The Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo 27, 7:30pm, Nanaimo Theatre Group presents “Cinderella,” The Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo 28-29, 1:30pm and 7:30pm, Nanaimo Theatre Group presents “Cinderella,” The Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo

30- 31 30-31, 7:30pm, Nanaimo Theatre Group presents “Cinderella,” The Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo 31, 10:30am, Moravian Love Feast, Ladysmith First United, 232 High St., Ladysmith 250-2452183 31, 6pm, New Years Eve Party 2020, Wheatsheaf Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd., Cedar 31, 7pm, New Years Eve Celebration, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton 250-324-2245

JANUARY 10, 6pm–9pm, Salt Spring National Art Traveling Exhibition Opening Reception, Free, Victoria Arts Council, 1800 Store St., Victoria

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11–Feb. 22, noon–5pm, Salt Spring National Art Traveling Exhibition, Free, Victoria Arts Council, 1800 Store St., Victoria

Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550

11, 1pm–5pm, Sourdough and Artisan Baking Two-day Workshop, $175, Seraphina’s Oven, 11286 Green Hill Dr., Ladysmith, 250-619-4464

24, 7pm, Medley Café Open Mic, St. John’s Anglican Church, 486 Jubliee St., Duncan

11, 8pm, Arbutus Roots, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton 250-324-2245 12, 9am–4pm, Sourdough and Artisan Baking Two-day Workshop, $175, Seraphina’s Oven, 11286 Green Hill Dr., Ladysmith, 250-619-4464 12, 10am, Earth Lovers Listening Circle, Wildflower Natural Health, 512-1st Ave., Ladysmith 14, 7pm, LDHS General Membership meeting, Ladysmith Museum 721 1st Ave. Ladysmith 15, 8pm, Snowed In Comedy Tour, The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550 17, 8pm, Snowed In Comedy Tour, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-748-7529 18, 7:30pm, VI Symphony – Waltz & Polka, The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-7548550 18, 8pm, 5 Whiskeys Deep, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton 250-324-2245 20, 7:30pm, Unikkaaqtuat, The Port Theatre, 125

24, 7pm, Lazy Mike & Carson Mallon, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton 250-324-2245

24, 7:30pm, International Guitar Night, The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550 25, 6pm, Burger & Beer Fundraiser, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton 250-324-2245 31, 7:30pm, Mamma Mia! Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-7487529

7, 7pm, Anne of Green Gables The Ballet, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St. Duncan 250-746-2722 7, 7:30pm, Rocket Man & The Piano Man, The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-7548550 9, 9am–5pm, Valentines Chocolates, $125, Seraphina’s Oven, 11286 Green Hill Dr., Ladysmith, 250-619-4464 12, 7:30pm, Gee Dan Productions presents Matt Andersen, The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550

FEBRUARY

14, 2pm–3pm, For The Love of Oboe, $25, The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-7548550

1, 2pm & 7:30pm, Mamma Mia! Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-748-7529

16, 7:30pm (door 7pm), The Lonely: Roy Orbison Tribute, The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550

2, 2pm, Mamma Mia! Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-748-7529

20, 9am–6pm, Sourdough and Artisan Baking Two-day Workshop, $175, Seraphina’s Oven, 11286 Green Hill Dr., Ladysmith, 250-619-4464

4, 10:30am, Classical Coffee Concert, The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550 5, 7:30pm, Les Ballets Trockadero De Monte Carlo, The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550 6, 7:30pm, Abbamania and the Bee Gees and Cher Show, The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo, 250-754-8550

21, 9am–6pm, Sourdough and Artisan Baking Two-day Workshop, $175, Seraphina’s Oven, 11286 Green Hill Dr., Ladysmith, 250-619-4464 28, 7pm (doors 6:30pm), Medley Café Open Mic, St. John’s Anglican Church, 486 Jubliee St., Duncan

TAKE 5

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

FOR SALE MINER’S SHACK GALLERY COLLECTION. On trend painted furniture, locally-made pillows, original art and prints, gifts and unique vintage items. Downstairs at the Antique Post Office, open 7 days a week; www.MINERSshackGallery. com. WANTED COME JOIN OUR TEAM! Part-time care aid needed in a supportive care home environment. Duties include organizing daily activities, housekeeping, and cooking. Call or email Oceanview Seniors Manor 250-2452900 Oceanviewseniorsmanor@gmail.com DOG GROOMER in Ladysmith Area for 12 year old Shitzu. Can pay $40 cash for 2-hour job. Call Bob 250-924-5467. VOLUNTEERS needed for a variety of positions. Ladysmith Museum needs greeters, and program facilitators, Ladysmith Archives has positions in research and archiving. The Industrial Heritage Preservation Group seeks individuals who would like to paint, repair or work on machinery and other artifacts. Contact Ladysmith & District Historical Society at 250-245-0100. LEARNING ADD YOUR VOICE Singing Lessons. 30 yrs experience teaching both classical & musical theatre. Reasonable rates. Email knbotterell@ gmail.com. LEARN local history with Lives & Legends on Ladysmith Historical Society’s YouTube channel. BUSINESS EXPERIENCED HOUSESITTER. Now offering senior companionship, respite care and concierge services. Peaceofmindcare.wordpress.com. Contact Kathleen kgrcoaching@gmail.com or 250-619-0786.

DEC/JAN 2020

CONCRETE RESULTS. Contracting, full-service forming and finishing, walls, walks, patios, drives. 35 years experience. Call Gord 250-753-4024. I CAN EDIT. Copy editing, proofreading, structural editing and more. Fiction or nonfiction, web content and eBook prep. For more information, email editican@gmail.com. HEALTH & BEAUT Y TAI CHI for mental & physical health. Beginner classes start Sept. & Jan., Mondays, at Cedar Heritage Centre. Ongoing class Wednesdays at North Oyster Community Centre. Both classes 10am–noon, $60/3 mo., www.taichinanaimo.org. Call Sara 250-245-1466. VIDEO PRODUCTION services, from script to screen, edited and ready to post on YouTube, Facebook or your website. Editor@take5.ca. HOME & YARD MAN WITH TRUCK dump runs, gutter/ window cleaning, yard work and odd jobs. If it fits in my truck, I’ll haul it away! Call Devin 778-403-4108 or message on FacebookMan with Truck. WE’RE HERE TO HELP with small jobs and clearing the clutter. Call the Forever Team, Bill and Kathy Reilly. Handyman services and trained professional organizer; info@ justsortit.ca or 250-668-8908. KB HANDYMAN AND YARDWORKS SERVICES. Minor carpentry work, decks, fences, gutter cleaning, power washing, tree pruning, yard clean up, lawn fertilizing, mowing. Seniors discount. Contact Karl kbhandymanandyardworks@gmail.com or 250-714-2738. GARDEN RENOVATION AND LANDSCAPING. Are you thinking of a garden renovation or landscaping project? Excellent quality and knowledge. We are happy to assist you with any landscaping or gardening work you need. Estimates are always free. Give Sandpiper a call! 250-246-2421.

DARRELL ESSAR RENOVATIONS. Over 30 years’ experience, certified journeyman carpenter. No job is too small, from fences, decks, tile work, hardwood flooring, painting, drywall etc. For free estimate, call Darrell 250-714-3823. ISLAND PRUNING. Professional tree care from large scale orchards to budding new trees. I can meet any pruning need. Shrubs, vines and ornamental. Large and small clean ups. Call Darcy Belcourt 250-323-1260. TAKE 5 ads work! Get them working for you. Call 250-245-7015 or info@take5.ca ARE YOU BUYING OR SELLING A HOME? Curb appeal, re-design or new design, www. islandgardenscapes.ca or 250-802-0461. PETS PROFESSIONAL PET CARE SERVICE. Leash ’em & walk ’em with Marlena. Insured and bonded. Animal First Aid and CPR. Service for all pets including dog walking, home care visits, overnight with pet in my home and much more. As my love is yours! Call 250-246-3394. DOG WALKING/Hiking OFF LEASH! 2-hour avg. walk, weekly walks year-round, pick up & drop off included, insured & licensed. Contact Paula Plecas for a complimentary meet & greet! See us Facebook and Instagram for fun in action! Tracks Outdoor Adventures INC at walken@shaw.ca or 250-754-TREC(8732). THE PET NANNY. Let us pamper and love your pets at your home or ours. References are available. Contact Shanon or Bill sburchard@ hotmail.ca or 250-924-8809.. SENIORS LYNN’S SENIORS CARE HOME. High quality personalized care. Warm caring environment. Great food and snacks. Family events. Couples and pets welcome. Ocean views, gardens. North of Ladysmith; www.lynnsseniorcare.com. Call 250245-3391.

QUALITY RENOVATIONS. Big or small. 25 yrs. exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate, call Lars 250-616-1800.

LEGRANNYS ON THE GO COMPANION SERVICES. Are you looking for someone that can help you with an active senior family member? Well look no further than Janet Bowman at janetmb@ shaw.ca or 250-924-1515.

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

LEAVE A LEGACY. Memoirs, family cookbooks, personal histories, we can help you with your project from books, e-books to video productions. For an estimate contact TAKE 5 at 250-245-7015 or email editor@take5.ca

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