TAKE 5 July 2015

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Letters Respect for us all I write this in recognition of a local group that, in my opinion, has been unfairly, “slighted” by a recent, “sensationalised” and narrow minded, article printed in our local media. The Veterans Motorcycle Club is a group that selflessly fundraises, donating generously to our local community.

During a recent fundraising event, motorcycles passed our house frequently, their engines obviously gaining our attenCallum Epp-Evans with outh Island Vetrans motorcycle club members at club house. Photo Nick Epp-Evans

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tion. My young son stating, “Those guys are bad! Dangerous and drug dealers...”

Somewhat taken aback, I asked him where he got this opinion from. He replied that, ‘Grown Ups’ had told him.

My son is at the age where respect of others, and being non judgemental are life skills that we, as parents, promote.

Subsequently, garden tools were dropped, and we were on our way to the Veterans club house. Callum, my son, was invited to introduce himself, ask questions and begin to make his own conclusions. Cautiously, he did, not expecting that within seconds he would be revving up Harley’s, given tours of the club house and provided with the knowledge of the club’s history and ideology.

The words, Respect and Community commonly being heard.

Callum left the clubhouse proud in the knowledge, not only, of his endeavours, but also that every biker (even those visiting from the Mainland) has served, and in many cases, sacrificed, for the good of this country. His question to me; “Why are these heroes being called criminals?”

In a time when our Senators are making fraudulent claims, and FIFA officials taking bribes, who has the right to judge by appearance? Give me a biker’s jacket and colours over a designer suit any day!

- Nick Epp-Evans

E & N Rail Here we go again with a publicly funded project about to take off amidst great uncertainty that it will come in anywhere near projected costs.

When I see consultants expressing their view that the planned upgrading costs for the rail bed will vastly exceed original estimates, it makes me cringe.

And they are only talking about the rail bed, and only to get it to “pushing the limits of safety to the extreme”. We still have to deal with all the bridges and then there is the equipment yet to be procured, and then the enormous ongoing maintenance.

The point is, all this expense is to be incurred to provide a service for a handful of tourists and another handful of commuters each day, whose numbers will diminish dramatically after tourist season.

Why don’t we instead take this opportunity to provide a facility for thousands of people who have already demonstrat-

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ed that if you build it they will come? I’m talking about a beautiful trail corridor which would link all communities from Victoria to Comox, and the cost would be a fraction both for construction and maintenance. All that would be required is to fill in between the existing rail with suitable gravel, put up a few signs, and watch the peddlers and pedestrians hit the trail in their hundreds every day!

This is a golden opportunity to provide an inexpensive, environmentally friendly, healthy legacy for all to use, for generations to come. Let’s not miss this one.

- Michael Smith

Upgrade water system before school I would like to bring attention to the April 2012 issue of TAKE 5. In the Director’s notes, the director for Area G , Saltair, Mel Dorey states very clearly in respect to the urgent need of upgrades to the water system in Saltair, stating that “Each year the CVRD gets Federal Gas Tax money in the form of grants .This extra money will allow us to do the water system upgrades over a shorter period of time.”

Now, in the April 2015 issue of TAKE 5, Director Dorey proposes using the same Federal Gas Tax money to “use to improve the physical structure of the old school building like the furnaces and the

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roof.”.

I would encourage residents of Saltair to contact Director Dorey to honour his original commitment to the community made three years ago, and ensure ALL Gas Tax money be used to complete the upgrade to the water system before diverting money to the old school money pit. - Tom Hockin

Shots for Kids The Kaese Family wish to express their sincere appreciation for support of the Shots for Kids, Juvenile Diabetes Charity Golf Tournament held on May 23rd, 2015. You have touched many families and greatly assisted in the research for the cure.

Your generosity and overwhelming support for the Cottonwood Shots for Kids helped raise $15, 982.

- The Kaese Family Letters to the editor are welcome but subject to space and editing. Multiple submissions will not be considered. Include name, address and phone for verification. Letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of TAKE 5, advertisers or contributors. Email editor@take5.ca. or submit at www.take5.ca. Facebook. com/take5publications

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Peggy Wildsmith, Home Buddies Pet & Home Sitting with TAKE 5 publisher Marina Sacht holding up Peggy’s first and final issue of TAKE 5. Peggy is one of TAKE 5’s longest running advertisers starting in July 1996 and has been in every issue. Good luck Peggy in your new home in Alberta. Photo: Angie Haslam

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Summer! It’s going to be a hot one.

We are currently in the midst of a heat wave, with temperatures reaching mid 30’s with more to come. Experts are predicting a long hot and dry summer.

And what better place to be than the mid island? An abundance of beaches, parks, and swimming holes will help you keep your cool.

Lakes, rivers or miles of coast the choice is yours. Being ocean lovers, here is our choice for the best beaches.

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live and our dog can hang out with us at the water....love the island!”. We agree.

A popular swimming beach and a popular kayak launch spot. The kids love the rope swing.

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a beacon sitting on a point. At low tides the ocean waters recede revealing wet sand, seaweed, tidal pools and stranded shells. It is during low tides visitors can actually walk out to Bird Rock.

Best Beaches

1. Transfer Beach Park My family and I love Transfer Beach.

Great beach, good food and we play in the water park like we are little kids, writes Sharmon Perry.

Transfer Beach has it all. Playgrounds, sand volley ball, horseshoes, kayak rentals, and a water spray park, just to start.

Add a full service concession stand, lots of picnic tables, fossils and coal chunks hidden in the banks, and a great big willow tree to chill under and we haven’t even dipped our toe in the water or gone to the other side where the Amphitheatre set against the ocean makes a dramatic setting for weddings, a quiet cup of morning coffee or the summer Sunday Concerts in the Park series.

2. Elliot Beach Park. (Shell Beach) This is Suzanne Deveau’s favourite beach because “it is close to where we

3. Big Rock Beach There’s even some oldtimers that haven’t heard of Big Rock Beach at Boulder Point in Saltair. This beach is Verna Hastings favourite spot. Access is at the end of South Oyster Road. Warm shallow waters and an impressive rock left behind by the glaciers make this a dramatic spot. Lots of beachcombing when the tide is out.

4. Kin Park This beach park is a popular spot for beachcoming, sighteeing, picnicking, swimming and a spot to launch your boat. The waterfront park includes a children’s playground and sand box, grassy lawns, and change rooms. Kin Park is an ideal destination for marine sightseeing and birdwatching. From the shoreline one can see Bird Rock, Tent Island and

5. Blue Heron Park This is a great place to spend the spend the day or an hour. If you can’t get a room at the spectacular Yellow Point Lodge, remember that this beach is right next door. Enjoy beachcombing or sitting on a log watching the light play on the water. The sandstone warms the water and makes it a pleasant swimming spot for the end of the day.

Photos: Cindy Damphousse, Marina Sacht

Sweet summer music Summer ia a time when the hills come alive with music. All over the island there are music festivals from country to county to folk to open mics at local coffe shops. Summer wouldn’t sound the same without these upcoming events.

Live music is the soundtrack to summer.

Please check out Concerts in the Park, lineup in this issue pages 24-25, and Chenmainus Valley Cultural Arts Society for upcoming performers, www. cvcas.com

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Water conservation: the new normal As our weather changes, becoming warmer year-round, we have to face the reality of a ‘new normal’ when it comes to how we use water. It is so easy to turn on a tap and get a seemingly endless stream of clean, drinkable water.

It’s probably too easy, because we rarely take time to think about where that water comes from and where it goes as we let the tap run to get hot water, brush our teeth or rinse the dishes.

But the truth is that water is an infinitely precious commodity and a finite resource. We all need to be much more conscious of where our water comes from and how we use it. We all need to do our part to conserve and be water wise.

In Ladysmith, we rely on what is termed surface water for our water supply. That is, our water comes from lakes and creeks in the hills surrounding our community. Ladysmith’s water is supplied in part by Holland Lake and the Holland Creek watershed, which enters the water supply system at the Chicken Ladder Intake, as well as from Stocking Lake, located south of the Town. Water from both of these supplies is piped directly to the Arbutus Reservoir, where it is chlorinated and distributed by gravity to the entire Ladysmith service area, the Diamond Improvement District and portions of neighbouring Stz’uminus First Nation lands. We can also divert water from Banon Creek if required to help fill Holland Lake. In addition, a separate pipeline ties in to the main pipeline just Right: Concerned citizens Greg Gott and Dave Judson measure the water level at Heart Lake during last year’s dry spell.

Photo Rob Johnson

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south of Stocking Lake, and feeds the Saltair water system, operated by the CVRD. The Town commissioned the 2014 Watershed Modelling Report to verify the ability of the Stocking, Holland, and Banon Watersheds to provide a reliable source of domestic water to the Town for the medium- and long-term future, taking into account population and climate change projections. The report concluded that, if we manage our water properly and ensure that we have the capacity to store it for use in the dry summer months, we should have an adequate supply for the medium term. In the long term, additional storage will be required in the Holland System to provide for adequate supply storage during unusual drought years.

The Town is acting on a number of fronts together with other local governments, First Nations, community groups, concerned citizens and businesses on the water management front. Initiatives underway include: • Council has established “Water Supply and Watershed Protection” as a focus area for 2015, and asked staff to inves-

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tigate options for future additional water storage, explore more incentives and rebates to encourage lower water use, reduce water use in municipal facilities, and encouraging greener development that takes the natural water cycle and rain water into consideration • We have set a new residential water consumption target of 20 per cent less than the published Canadian residential average. And let’s give ourselves a pat on the back here –with our water use at 246 litres per person, per day, we are already below the B.C. water consumption average and leading the rest of the Cowichan Region. However, we still use much more water than almost any other country in the world, so there is still room for improvement • Ladysmith is working with the other communities in the Cowichan Valley Regional District, as well as Stz’uminus First Nation and Cowichan Tribes, on a region-wide water reduction and public awareness campaign. For the first time ever, we are implementing the same water restrictions, at the same time • We are also very pleased to be working alongside neighbours and community members to establish a Watershed Management Round Table, with representatives from Stz’uminus First Nation, the Town, industry, the community and the regional district working together to preserve and protect our watershed There are many local resources offering tips on how we can all reduce water use at home and at work. I encourage you to visit the Water Conservation page on the Town’s website at www.ladysmith. ca as well as the CVRD’s New Normal site at www.cvrdnewnormalcowichan. ca. Whether it is as simple as collecting rain water to water your plants , installing a low-flush toilet, or installing high efficiency drip irrigation for your garden, try making a few changes and share them with your friends and neighbours.

Every drop counts, literally.

Preserving the environment and protecting our water sources must be a priority. Water security will continue to be a major focus of municipal, regional, provincial, federal and even world organizations. Managing water wisely now, and investing in infrastructure, will help ensure there is enough water to meet projected demands and preserve the ecosystems around us.

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Disaster looms in Ladysmith Harbour

There is a potential disaster awaiting Ladysmith Harbour. The 108 foot Viki Lyne II lies abandoned with approximately 13,000 litres of oil and solvents on board and her sinking is imminent. Photo: Rob Pinkerton.

BY ROB PINKERTON Another vessel sank on Friday, June 12 in “Dog Patch” or more correctly Water Lot 651. Some life jackets, propane tanks, children’s toys and a fuel slick were observed and the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) was informed. Their response was minimal... two young men in civilian clothes walked down the dock, were outfitted with life jackets and taken out on the water by Ladysmith Maritime Society staff. On the weekend a vessel arrived and could not locate the sunken vessel.

A few days later CCG returned and ascertained that a sailboat had sunk. It would seem that because of the potential for loss of life that the response would be somewhat more aggressive. Is the Coast Guard becoming blasé about Ladysmith Harbour? This is just another sinking, stranding, burning of a vessel in “Dog Patch”. Are we becoming inured to re-

peated problems in this areas? The fuel spill will evaporate and life will go on as usual.

Not so. There is a potential disaster awaiting Ladysmith Harbour. The 108 foot Viki Lyne II lies abandoned and anchored in water lot 651 and she is nothing to be complacent about. She has approximately 13,000 litres of oil and solvents on board and her sinking is imminent.

She was abandoned behind the Dunsmuir Islands pre 2012. The Stz’uminus First Nation objected to her presence and the Coast Guard towed the Viki Lyne II to Dog Patch. Because of the condition of the vessel, the Coast Guard commissioned a survey in August 2012. They discovered 32,929 liters of fuel, hydraulic fluid and solvent including 15,000 liters of oil in the bilge. The vessel’s shell plating was measured and the surveyors

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stated that sinking was only a matter of time. They cautioned that scraping of the hull below the water line could cause inflooding as rust scale and marine growth were perhaps the only thing that were preventing water from entering the hull.

The survey made the following recommendations: “Removal of all oils aboard is recommended before the vessel sinks, which she will eventually do although the time line of the event cannot be established. Disassembly and scrapping of the vessel is the only certain way of removing her current threat to the environment.”

Two years later, in the fall of 2014 the CCG pumped 20,000 liters of oil from the Viki Lyne II. Some 13,000 litres remain in tanks, barrels, cans and lines. To put this in perspective, the recent bunker spill in Vancouver Harbour was 2,700 litres.

Ladysmith Harbour has been badly abused by coal barons and industrialists in the past and is slowly recovering. When Viki Lyne II sinks, what will the damage be? The commercial oyster industry will be severely affected.

The Stz’uminus First Nation relies on a 150,000 pound annual harvest and employs 30 persons.

Other fragile sea life, sea birds and mammals will be harmed or killed over time. Beaches will be closed. Endangered Purple Martin recovery, which nest so close to this vessel will be threatened.Tourism will be affected. In the last three years the federal and provincial governments have invested over $2 million to support tourism in Ladysmith harbour which is bringing an economic return of $700,000 annually to the area.

The Viki Lyne II lies in the adjacent water lot to this investment.

I understand the federal government’s reluctance to spend money and they obviously pull the strings for the CCG. The irony of this is that there is a fund in existence that is designed for problems exactly like this. Go to www.ssopfund.ca.

The Ship-Source Oil Pollution Fund currently has $405 million in it. Last year it cost $1.2 million to administer the fund and $141,000 was spent on its mandate.

According to its 2013 Annual Report, in

A graveyard of wrecks in Ladysmith harbour.

Photo: Rob Pinkerton

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the past five years the fund has been used locally at least twice for the disposal of derelict and dirty vessels. In 2010 the 55 foot fishing vessel, Jessie Island XI and in 2012 the Lady Mary III, a 42 foot fishing vessel were deconstructed by Saltaire Marine Services, a local business. The amount of contaminants on board in both cases were far less than what is on board the Viki Lyne II. Cutting up the Viki Lyne II and disposing of the contaminants will cost far less than raising the sunken vessel and trying to contain the mess. The resulting publicity caused by the fouling of our harbour because of lack of concern and action will be huge.

The Town of Ladysmith, Stz’uminus First Nation, and the Ladysmith Maritime Society have pleaded many times with the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, who administers this fund, to no avail. If this was happening in Vancouver Harbour, the response would be immediate as the media and public would be would be not as restrained as small town Ladysmith in an NDP federal riding.

Given the federal government’s commitment to upgrading marine pollution response in anticipation of increased tanker traffic on the British Columbia coast, their response to this easily solvable problem is hard to understand.

Nanaimo-Cowichan MP, Jean Crowder is aware of this problem and had tried her best to move the federal government.

Your letters to the Minister Of Transport, the Honourable Lisa Raitt would help. The time for complacency is over and this matter must be resolved.

To see the survey of the Viki Lyne II and other documents go to the Take 5 website at www.Take5.ca

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Brits on the Beach On Sunday July 12, the Old English Car Club will be hosting its 15th annual Brits on the Beach car show at Transfer Beach starting at 10 a.m. Last year over 260 British cars and motorcycles were on display. The public is invited to view the vehicles and get first hand information from the many knowledable car owners who have restored and maintained their classic vehicles. As always, there is no charge and everyone is welcome.

The Ladysmith Lions Club is offering refreshments starting with breakfast at 10 a.m. This year there will be eight vendors on hand who will be selling British related goods and services. In addition, new and used English car parts and tools will be offered for sale.

Come talk to the owners, enjoy the cars and find out more about the vehicles and their history. They look forward to seeing you there.

For further information, visit the club web-site at www.oecc.com

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beyond and exceeded expectations as well as various competitions. Also there are presentations to individuals who the District Executive feel need to be pointed out for their work in their communities and the Kin Association. For 2014/15 the Ladysmith Kinsmen made their club known throughout the province, being named the recipients of some prestigious Governor’s Service Awards.

Larry Adair received the District Governor’s Service Award for Spirit. Ron Legault received the award for “Club Supporting Member” and local Kinsmen Duck Paterson won the District Governor’s Award for Leadership. As well the club won an award for their “Kin”dress Day project.

At the May 27th meeting local graduating student, Melissa Mrus, was presented with a National Kinsmen Association Bursary for $1,000. Melissa is one of only 50 students to receive this award across Canada this year.

What a Mess!

Behind the Save-On Foods at Coronation Mall a ‘garbage dump’ has sprung up. The Town of Ladysmith has been made aware of this by concerned citizens. Apparently, there are individuals who have been going through the garbage at Coronation Mall. Awhile back, the Town cleaned up Save On Foods

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Garbage behind Coronation Mall

garbage that had been gone through and tossed down the side of the bank. Following that there was another incident and this garbage contained pill bottles from Rexall Drugs. The mall management was contacted and they have assured the Town that they will secure the garbage containers so this does not happen in the future.

Ball Hockey Tournament and Fun for All The 6th Annual Cedar Ball Hockey Tournament on July 10-12 will be hosted at the Snuneymuxw Community Hall - Lacrosse Courts located on Longhouse Road, Cedar. Mark your calendars for a fun, safe and competitive event with the “Fun For Kids” event. This popular event gives the kids a chance to come out and play some hockey too.

Local Kinsmen Honoured Over the May long weekend Kinsmen from all across BC attended the annual District “Kin”vention, which was held in Parksville this year. Seven members of the Ladysmith Kinsmen also were in attendance. Ladysmith Kinsmen have been one of the stronger clubs in the District (B.C.) and this year was no different. At every District convention awards are handed out to clubs that have gone

This is the second group to complete the Block Watch Program. A large group of 32 homes with main focal area Gatacre between 3rd and 4th Avenues including the homes on High and Roberts Streets that back onto the lane of Gatacre Street homes. Captains April Marrington and Vicki Matthews. Photo submitted.

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Stz’uminus Aboriginal Day Celebration On June 21 the Stz’uminus First Nation celebrated Aboriginal Day at Transfer Beach. This is an annual event and for the first time it was held in Ladysmith. The event was a partnership with the Town of Ladysmith and Canadian Heritage, SFN leadership and SFN Health. Over 300 visitors attended various events including a salmon barbecue.

Dancers and Drummers at the Stz’uminus Aboriginal Day Celebration Photo: Cecelia Harris

Adventure Zone Daycamp Have fun and make friends at Ladysmith Parks, Recreation and Culture’s Adventure Zone summer daycamps! Daily adventures with great leaders, the program for ages 6 to 12 years, runs July 6-August 28. Hours are 9am to 3pm at Transfer Beach Here’s the line up: Jul 6-10 Superheroes, Jul 13-17 Animal Planet, Jul 20-24 Sports Extravaganza, Jul 27-31 Ooey Gooey Science, Aug 4-7 Creative Cat, Aug 10-14 Nature Nuts, Aug 17-21 Around the World in a Week, Aug 24-28 Splish Splash Beach Bash. Cost is $129 a week, $95 sibling. 250-245-6424.

Ladysmith Search and Rescue (LSAR) is proud to announce that we now have a Swift Water Rescue Team. Six LSAR members have completed the training and are now Certified Level 1 Swift Water Technicians. Congratulations (Lto R) Darren Vandergrift, Matieu Soucy, Robert Cheatle, Brad Vosey, Rob Kirkland and Liz Perigo.

Photo: Allen McDermid, Ladysmith Search and Rescue

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COMPILED BY CINDY DAMPHOUSSE

July 1-4 1, Happy Canada Day! Check out all the cool things at Transfer Beach in Ladysmith 1, 10-4, Canada Day Celebrations - Chemainus – Waterwheel Park 1, 10-4, Canada Day - Chemainus - 1st Annual Identity Graphics’ Canada Cup 4 on 4 Mixed Ball Hockey Tournament - Train Station Parking Lot 1, 10-4, Canada Day - Chemainus - The First DCFS Human Foosball Tournament - Train Station Parking Lot 1, 12pm Canada Day – Chemainus - Music in the Park on the CUPE Stage 1, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night alternating Wednesdays, check with Cottonwood Golf Course 250-245-5157 1-4, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820 1-4, 10:30am and 2pm, Ladysmith Harbour Tours in July daily. 250 245-0109 or visit www. lmsmarina.ca 2, 2pm, 9 & Dine Enjoy 9 holes of golf and a delicious 3 course meal every Thursday Cottonwood Golf Course. 250-245-5157 3-4, 7:30pm, Kiss the Moon, Kiss the Sun by Norm Foster, Ladysmith Little Theatre 250-9240658 3-4, 12-4pm, Too Many Squirrels! What does that mean! Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 250-245-1252 www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery. com 3, 8pm, Allison Crowe Concert 4, 7pm, Opening Night Too Many Squirrels!

Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 250-2451252 www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com

4, 8 – 3pm, The Giant Street Market. Downtown Chemainus. 250-246-3944 www.chemainus.bc.ca

July 5-11 5-11, 10:30am and 2pm, Ladysmith Harbour Tours in July daily. 250-245-0109 or visit www. lmsmarina.ca 5-11, 12-4pm, Too Many Squirrels! What does that mean! Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 250-245-1252 www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery. com 5-11, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820 6-10, 9am – 3pm, Adventure Zone Day Camp Superheroes week, Transfer Beach Park 250245-6424 6, 7pm, Ladysmith Council Meeting, City Hall, 410 Esplanade. 250-245-6400 7, 1pm – 5pm, Farmers Market,Transfer Beach 250-245-2112 8, 10am, Ladysmith Sketch Group – Ladysmith Maritime Society at the Ladysmith Community Marina - contact happypair@shaw.ca 8, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night alternating Wednesdays. Check with Cottonwood Golf Course 250-245-5157.

9, 2pm, 9 & Dine Enjoy 9 holes of golf and a delicious 3 course meal every Thursday Cottonwood Golf Course 250-245-5157 9, 7pm, Nanaimo Arts Council - July Showcase Please contact NAC admin@nanaimoartscouncil. ca or 250-729-3947 for more information 10-11, 6th Annual Ball Hockey Tournament will be hosted at the Snuneymuxw Community Hall - Lacrosse Courts located on Longhouse Road, Cedar. Registration inquiries please contact: Rod Huneault 250-618-9134, email rhuneault@shaw. ca

10, 3pm, Timbermen Classic Golf Tournament, Cottonwood Golf Course 250-739-2606 11, 10:00am, Royal Canadian Marine Search & Rescue Ladysmith is recruiting for crew and supporting members and will be hosting an open boathouse at the Ladysmith Marina. Email recruiting@rcmsar29.com 11, Chemainus Rockabilly Festival - Waterwheel Park www.cvcs.com

July 12-18 12-18, 10:30am and 2pm, Ladysmith Harbour Tours in July daily. 250 245-0109 or visit www. lmsmarina.ca 12-18, 12-4pm, Too Many Squirrels! What does that mean! Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 250-245-1252 ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 12, 6th Annual Ball Hockey Tournament will be hosted at the Snuneymuxw Community Hall Lacrosse Courts located on Longhouse Road, Cedar. Registration inquiries please contact: Rod Huneault . 250-618-9134, rhuneault@shaw.ca 12, 10am, Brits on the Beach, Transfer Beach Park, Ladysmith 250-741-0221 12, 6pm, Concerts in the Park at Transfer Beach Sonny, Honey & Wild Bill - Country music.

12-18, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820 13-17, 9am - 3pm, Adventure Zone Day Camp Animal Planet week, Transfer Beach Park. 250245-6424 14, 1pm – 5pm, Farmers Market, Transfer Beach 250-245-2112 14, 7pm, Music in the Park – Waterwheel Park Chemainus – Naden Band of Maritime Forces Pacific www.cvcs.com 15, 10am, Ladysmith Sketch Group – At Thistledown Farm Bed & Breakfast – contact happypair@shaw.ca

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15, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night alternating Wednesdays. Check with Cottonwood Golf Course 250-245-5157 16, 2pm, 9 & Dine Enjoy 9 holes of golf and a delicious 3 course meal every Thursday Cottonwood Golf Course. 250-245-5157 18, Chemainus Blue Grass Extravaganza & Festival – Waterwheel Park www.cvcs.com

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26, 12-3pm, The Mahle House Annual Garden Party is holding a fundraiser in support of Cedar Opportunities Co-op (Coco Café). For more info contact www.mahlehouse.ca 26-27, 12-4pm, Too Many Squirrels! What does that mean! Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 250-245-1252 www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery. com

18, 11am, James and the Giant Peach - Kidzplay, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820

26-31, 11am, James and the Giant Peach Kidzplay, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-2469820

July 19-25

26, 6pm, Concerts in the Park at Transfer Beach - Blue Grass Fever - Bluegrass www. bluegrassfever.ca

19-25, 10:30am and 2pm, Ladysmith Harbour Tours in July daily. 250-245-0109 or visit www. lmsmarina.ca 19, Chemainus Blue Grass Extravaganza & Festival – Waterwheel Park www.cvcs.com 19-25, 12-4pm, Too Many Squirrels! What does that mean! Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 250-245-1252 ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 19-25, 11am, James and the Giant Peach Kidzplay, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-2469820 19, 6pm, Concerts in the Park at Transfer Beach - Nanaimo Concert Band -50 Piece band www. nanaimoconcertband.com 19-25, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820 20-24, 9am - 3pm, Adventure Zone Day Camp Sports Extravaganza week, Transfer Beach Park.

250-245-6424 20, 7pm, Ladysmith Council Meeting, City Hall, 410 Esplanade. 250-245-6400 21, 1pm – 5pm, Farmers Market, Transfer Beach.

250-245-2112 21, 7pm, Music in the Park – Waterwheel Park, Chemainus – The Michael Wood Band cvcs.com 22, 10am, Ladysmith Sketch Group - Waterwheel Park, Chemainus – info happypair@shaw.ca 22, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night alternating Wednesdays. Check with Cottonwood Golf Course 250-245-5157 23, 2pm, 9 & Dine Enjoy 9 holes of golf and a delicious 3 course meal every Thursday Cottonwood Golf Course. 250-245-5157 25, 12pm, The Velvet Rut Festival - Waterwheel Park, Chemainus - www.cvcs.com

July 28-31 26-31, 10:30am and 2pm, Ladysmith Harbour Tours in July daily. 250 245-0109 or visit www. lmsmarina.ca

26-31, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820 26, Heritage Paint Out Shoot Out (HPOSO) - An artistic race against time to bring Heritage to life.

Please contact NAC admin@nanaimoartscouncil. ca or 250-729-3947 for more information 27-31, 9am - 3pm, Adventure Zone Day Camp Ooey Gooey Science week, Transfer Beach Park 250-245-6424 28, 1pm – 5pm, Farmers Market, Transfer Beach.

250-245-2112 28, 7pm, Music in the Park – Waterwheel Park Chemainus - West My Friend www.cvcs.com 28, 7pm, Ladysmith Camera Club - Putting Together a Slide Show - Patricia Haugen, Hardwick Hall 228 High Street, Ladysmith, www.

LadysmithCameraClub.com 29, 10am, Ladysmith Sketch Group – Chemainus Gardens - contact happypair@shaw.ca 29, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night alternating Wednesdays. Check with Cottonwood Golf Course 250-245-5157 30, 2pm, 9 & Dine Enjoy 9 holes of golf and a delicious 3 course meal every Thursday Cottonwood Golf Course. 250-245-5157

August 1 1, Ladysmith Days, parade, fireworks and more, various locations downtown, Transfer Beach.

250-245-2112 1, 10:30am and 2pm, Ladysmith Harbour Tours in August daily. 250-245-0109 or visit www. lmsmarina.ca 1, 11am, James and the Giant Peach - Kidzplay, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820 1, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820

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August 2-8 2-8, 10:30am and 2pm, Ladysmith Harbour Tours in August daily 250 245-0109 or visit www. lmsmarina.ca 2-8, 11am, James and the Giant Peach - Kidzplay, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820 2-8, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820 2, Ladysmith Days, parade, fireworks and more, various locations downtown, Transfer Beach. 250 245-2112 4-7, 9am - 3pm, Adventure Zone Day Camp, Creative Cat. Transfer Beach Park. 250-245-6424 5, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night alternating Wednesdays. Check with Cottonwood Golf Course.

250-245-5157 6, 2pm, 9 & Dine Enjoy 9 holes of golf and a delicious 3 course meal every Thursday Cottonwood Golf Course. 250-245-5157 (left to right) Chemainus Giant Street Market Daily Ladysmith Harbour Tours Adventure Zone Day Camps

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Award winning play at Ladysmith Little Theatre

Twist and Shout Your Way Back to the 60s at the Chemainus Theatre Festival When the Chemainus Theatre does a musical, you know it is going to be good. Their new production Twist and Shout: The British Invasion exceeds expectations. It’s an energetic, brilliant song and dance revue that includes 64 all-time hits, and anecdotes about the music revolution. Writer and director Alex Mustakas catches the youthful spirit of the 60’s – the innocence, the anti-establishment and just for the fun in rock and roll. This is much more than a tribute show. The revue is set against the background of Roy Solomon, a music show along the lines of Ed Sullivan.

The part of Roy is fabulously played by Tory Doctor whose comedic brilliance had the audience in a frenzy of laughter between music sets.

Popular music was never the same after the “British Invasion” of the 1960s Though fifty years have passed, people are still being entertained by the phenomenon. Playing evening and matinee shows from June 12 to August 29; tickets are on sale now at the box office, 1-800-565-7738, chemainustheatre.ca.

Kiss the Moon, Kiss the Sun by Norm Foster is presented by the Mercury Players on Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4, 2015 at Ladysmith Little Theatre.

Doors at 7:30 pm, show is at 8:00 pm.

The comedy/drama based on a friendship that forms between a a mentally challenged man and a woman. This show won Best Production, Best Actor and Best Actress at the recent TheatreBC festival in Yellow Point. The Mercury Players are taking the production to Kamloops to compete against the best amateur theatre performances in BC in July.

Reservations: on line at www.ladysmiththeatre.com or by phone 250-9240658. $20.

Millar releases new book Writer Maureen Millar’s new book “Still” invites you to join others as they meditate and consider the truth and knowledge that appeared in a first book, Inspired by God and continues in her second book titled Still. Available at Salamander Books, 535 First Avenue, Ladysmith, BC or online with Amazon and Balboa Press.

Events for July At the Gallery Too Many Squirrels! What does that mean? It can be taken literally or can be interpreted to mean to much of something or something just seems a little off kilter. The show runs from July 3 to 27, noon to 4pm daily. Opening night

Writer Maureen Millar released her new book “Still”.

is July 4 at 7pm with guest speaker Anthony Cateaux. Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Drive, Ladysmith . 250245-1252 www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com

Concerts in the Park 2015 Ladysmith is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty and one of the nicest spots is at Ladysmith’s Transfer Beach Park. “Concerts in the Park” are held in the outdoor Amphitheatre.

Since 2000, the Ladysmith Resources Centre has booked music concerts at the amphitheatre that appeal to a broad base of the population. The venue is superb with the backdrop of the harbour, boats cruising by, grassy lawn, flowerbeds and a large seating area protected by mature maples overhead.

Admission to the concerts is by dona-

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tion and volunteers circulate through the audience during the performance to collect. All donation money is earmarked for our programs which allow participants to attend the programs at no cost to them. Please see the lineup on pages 24-25.

Performances at Waterwheel Park The Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society (CVCAS) is bringing plenty of entertainment to Waterwheel Park in July.

Along with the regular Tuesday-evening “Music in the Park” series, there will also be a great collection of weekend music festivals.

On July 7, De Bruces A Mi from Columbia will present some great ska, reggae and salsa.

On July 11 the Chemainus Rockabilly Rumble will be back, with a great line-up of bands, along with a nostalgic display of hot rods and old cars. Hank Angel and his Island Devils will be serving up s rockabilly music, and will be joined by others, including Slim Sandy, the Hell Katz, Jukebox Jezabel and Six Gun Romeo.

On July 14, it is the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy.

The two-day Chemainus Bluegrass Festival will be back for the fifth year, on July 18 and 19. At least eight bands will be here this year this year including the Sweet Lowdown, the Clover Point Drifters, the Scout Mountain Band, Bluegrass Fever, Bowker Creek and more.

Tuesday, July 21 features Victoria’s Michael Wood Band.

Voted the city’s hottest band by Monday Magazine, these young musicians play classic, contemporary and original music.

July 25 is the return of the Velvet Rut Express Fest, music from many genres that features no less than 13 bands in one afternoon, using two stages at Waterwheel Park.

Finally on July 28, it is West My Friend. Described as indie-roots or chamber-folk, this band’s blend of instruments and four-part harmonies will delight the audience. Admission is by donation.

More details can be seen on the CVCAS website at www. cvcas.com.

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On the Garden Path

The cut flower garden

BY CAROLYN HERRIOT It’s been a long time since I grew lots of flowers - for the past few years it seems to have been mainly about food plants.

However this summer I am working with Ivanna of Yellow Point Blooms to start a new business, and we have ‘borrowed’ a field from Yellow Point Blues blueberry farm. The deal is that the beds are wanted for garlic planting in October so we have planted only annuals chosen for the purpose of cutting. This means that they need to look good in a vase for at least a week. TIP: Topping up or changing the water will prolong the life of your bouquet.

Finally we see the first flush of brilliant hues across the field, the result of growing flowers in fertile farm soil. Ploughing prepared the soil for planting, but bought invasive knotweed seeds to the surface to germinate. After three weeks we had to eradicate a sea of knotweed (Polygonaceae family) smothering the

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field by hand weeding, a task that looked worse than it was, as in loose friable soil weeds can be pulled out in clumps so it goes fast. Once weeded beds were mulched with hay to keep weeds down and lock in moisture around the plants. This hay will eventually break down and feed the soil in preparation for garlic planting. I call mulching organic weed and feed and there are many free materials that can be used such as grass clippings, leaves and spoiled hay.

The first flowers to bloom were columbines campanulas followed by calendula, cosmos, sweet peas and ten week stocks (perfume heaven!) and now we have cornflowers, rudbeckia, zinnias, love-lies-bleeding and gypsophila (baby’s breath) blooming. The best part about harvesting flowers, done in the cool of the evening or early morning, is that for many the more you cut the more they bloom. Soon to bloom are larkspur, statice, scabious, dahlias, carnations, hyssop and asters and if you think that all this sounds romantic it is - there’s definitely something magical about being a flower girl and there’s nowhere more relaxing than being on a peaceful farm at dusk, putting gorgeous vibrant bouquets together.

Ways to conserve water: 1. Forget grass, let it go brown; it will recover in the fall.

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2.Water in the early morning or late evening to avoid wastage through evaporation. Use a hose end spray attachment that directs water to roots rather than spraying foliage and employ soaker hoses and micro spray irrigation heads.

3. Attach timers to the water taps so that the water turns off automatically after a set time.

4. Leave vulnerable plants in shallow saucers of water in shade or cluster them around a water feature where humidity is higher.

5. Choose xeriscape (drought tolerant) plants; there are lists of them on the internet.

You can find Yellow Point Blooms farm fresh bouquets at the Cedar Farmer’s Market every Sunday from 10 - 2pm and all week from the farm stand at Yellow Point Blues.

Carolyn Herriot is author of ‘The Zero Mile Diet, A Year Round Guide to Growing Organic Food’ and is currently working on ‘The Zero Mile Business, Making a Living from the Land’.

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Ladysmith Maritime Society newly accredited as one of BC’s most environmental marinas Ladysmith Maritime Society Marina (LMSM) is BC’s latest marina to be certified under Georgia Strait Alliance’s (GSA) Clean Marine BC (CMBC) program for their environmental best practices. The designation recognizes industry leading marinas, harbour authorities, yacht clubs, and boatyards that meet GSA’s rigid environmental standards.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to recognize Ladysmith Maritime Society Marina with Clean Marine BC certification”, says GSA’s Executive Director Christianne Wilhelmson. “Ladysmith Maritime Society has shown a strong commitment to sound environmental practices that protect our cruising waters. They can be proud that the work they are doing is having a tangible, positive impact on the marine environment.”

Ladysmith Maritime Society Marina received their Clean Marine BC flag and certification during a special presentation at Dine on the Dock night on June 19.

“We are thrilled to have been given the distinction of three anchor certification under the Clean Marine BC program”,

Michelle Young, Clean Marine BC Program Coordinator, Georgia Strait Alliance, Ladysmith Maritime Society member Niels Weise who lead the assessment process for LMS along with Managing Director Rod Smith, receiving BC Clean Marine designation.

Photo: Marina Sacht

says Rod Smith, Ladysmith Maritime Society’s Managing Director. “For our not-for-profit Society it is recognition that we are on the right path – a path that we believe will lead to a better marine experience for everyone, boaters and non-boaters. We see working with GSA and our sister marinas in the program as a powerful opportunity for positive change in our marine environment now and for future generations.”

LMSM members are dedicated to putting their environmental best practices to work in other areas as well. Through their environmental award winning efforts, the population of the Western Purple Martin is recovering from near extinction – from five breeding pairs in 1985 to over 500 pairs during a recent

count. LMS cooperates with the BC Purple Martin Stewardship & Recovery Program by attaching nest boxes to dock pilings, watching for spring arrival of Purple Martins, counting adult birds, and banding nestlings.

Ladysmith Maritime Society has also campaigned vigorously for years to find solutions to the problem of derelict and abandoned vessels in Ladysmith Harbour. These vessels pose environmental contamination and safety risks, and are visual eyesores. They may end up adrift or washed ashore. Often they sink, releasing fuel and other toxins into the marine environment putting marine life and habitat at risk, creating danger for mariners and beachgoers, and damaging shoreline facilities.

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LMS Education Programs and Field Trip

BY SHIRLEY BLACKSTAFF The new Ladysmith Maritime Society Education Program – Field Trip 1 was experienced in May and June by three local schools. The volunteer educators and tour boat skippers provided rich programs for grade 2 students from Ecole North Oyster, pre-school children from Stz’ uminus Primary School and a grade 3 class from Park Avenue School, Nanaimo.

Each of these classes arrived at the Harbour Heritage Centre on Oyster Bay Drive where they were divided into three groups to begin their rotation of activities. The rotation included a Tour Boat ride aboard Maritimer for sea life and heritage discoveries; the Maritime Museum for a nautical treasure hunt, stories about marine safety and first-hand observations of our sea and bird life; and at the Harbour Heritage Centre for stories, songs, walk-in exhibits and interactive activities providing insight into the heritage of Ladysmith Harbour.

The Ladysmith Maritime Society offers Education Programs with three Field Trips designed to provide learning opportunities for all ages. Brochures and detailed information on these Education Programs can be found on the LMS website at www.lmsmarina.ca.

Oceans Seafood

BY CINDY DAMPHOUSSE A new restaurant has opened in Ladysmith. Ocean’s Seafood Restaurant, located at 431 First Ave, Ladysmith.

Owners Kim Geneau and sister Nancy are from Moncton, New Brunswick and their east coast roots shine through at Oceans. They menu offers a twist on some traditional west coast fish dishes.

Open for lunch and dinner six days a week offering an extensive appetizer menu, a kids menu and lunch and dinner menus, the food is an east meets west coast fusion.

A group of us recently had lunch there and it was unanimous two thumbs up.

The Seafood platter for two was outstanding with calamari; bacon wrapped scallops, and fried oysters, all surprisingly light and delicious. The Seafood Chowder was thick and rich and superb.

Now for the twist, you can choose between east or west coast fish and chips and we went for the east. The difference is in the coating which is light and crunchy with cornmeal and dill. The tartar sauce was a huge hit at the table. Ma-

rina was especially excited to try the lobster roll, filled with juicy claw meat, and a simple sauce gently cradled by a soft bun. The fish tacos were very generous, and had a nice kick of chipotle paired with pineapple mango salsa! Sadly there was no room for dessert. Next time.

Mahle Garden Party It’s my favorite time of year…the annual Mahle House Garden Party.

On Sunday July 26, from noon to 3pm you will get a chance to sip and savour selections from some of BC’s premium wineries while enjoying a fabulous selection of canapes in the gorgeous garden.

The event is a fundraiser in support of Cedar Opportunities Co-op who operates the Coco Café. Tickets are $65.

Phone to reserve at 250-722-3621 or better yet, go there in person and check out their Thursday and Sunday specials….three courses for $37.50.

See you at the party!

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RDN Area A (Cedar) As I write this column, I am concerned about the lack of rainfall within the region. After a winter in which the normal snowpacks failed to materialize, we have experienced substantially reduced rainfall in the past several months. With normal rainfall at or near 65 millimeters (mm) or 25.6 inches in May, the 4.5 mm or 1.8 inches of precipitation actually received is a cause for concern – particularly for farmers who rushed to get forage crops in some 5 or 6 weeks earlier than usual. The smattering of rain to date in June has not lessened the concerns of farmers or those dealing with potential wildfires. It behooves us all to take extra care when enjoying our parks and forest lands.

On a less sombre note, the annual Cedar Ball Hockey Challenge is set to take place from the afternoon of Friday, July 10th through the afternoon of Sunday, July 12th at the lacrosse box situated on Snuneymuxw First Nations lands at Longhouse Road to the north of MacMillan Road. For those of you who have participated in this event in the past, you know that you’ll be treated to watching teams aged from the very young to middle-aged simply enjoying themselves playing street hockey in a supportive environment. There will be a DJ in attendance and food and refreshments will be available in the adjoining kitchen facilities. It is anticipated that more than two dozen teams will attend at this event.

The group of parents who have organized this and other events for children over the past 7 or 8 years are dedicated to ensuring that children, in particular, have a venue in which to participate in fun activities. Please come out and support this worthwhile event. Information can be obtained at the group’s website: www.cedarballhockeychallenge.ca.

On Sunday, June 21, 2015 National Aboriginal Day in the City of Nanaimo witnessed a significant step forward in recognizing that we, the settlers, are

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resident on non-ceded (not given up or surrendered) territory of the Snuneymuxw (Coast Salish) First Nation. It also recognized that we must act as partners in advancing our common goals as together we are stronger than acting alone.

The event was the raising of the Snuneymuxw First Nations flag at City Hall – taking its place alongside the City’s coat of arms and the provincial flag. This is a significant step on the path to improving relations between the First Nation’s and local governments and their people.

Hopefully, the recent release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report on the residential schools and related programs will allow a better understanding of our history and the damage visited on generations of First Nations people.

Recognition and understanding of the past can only lead to improved relations and outcomes for all. alecmcpherson@shaw.ca

CVRD Area H (North Oyster) CVRD Community Parks: Residents of Area H are very fortunate that we have a variety of parks in our area. The parks range from waterfront parks to nature parks with well maintained walking trails and are treasured by the residents and guests alike for their recreational, ecological, spiritual and aesthetic values which are uniquely experienced by each visitor. All of the plants and animals that exist within our parks are protected public property to ensure that these landscapes remain as intended for future generations. Sometimes the public needs to be reminded of this.

Our parks can sometimes become so meaningful to parks visitors that they feel a need to remove park property such as vegetation, and firewood or even to construct features such as artworks and carvings for display without being authorized by Cowichan Valley Regional District Parks Managers. The following are some examples of activities that

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occur in Area H and other parks in the Region: nailing or screwing advertisements, lost animal or other community notices, signs, trail markers, artworks, rock or tree carvings and any activities that the perpetrators perceive as park enhancements. For your information, any activity other than walking, running or riding on the trails must be approved by the Cowichan Valley Regional District on behalf of the entire community. These unapproved and unassuming activities that occur in our local community parks leave a legacy of potentially serious and long term consequences.

When park trees are impacted by foreign objects like nails or screws, the previously mentioned values that resulted in the creation of the parks in the first place, are at risk. Nails and screws can penetrate deep past the bark into the layers which act as the vital organs of the tree, causing wounds that may become infected by fungus or disease and cause the slow death of the tree. If the tree survives the impact of the metal object, the tree will grow around the intrusion. This hidden nail or screw then poses a threat to any arborist who may be required to trim or cut down the tree with a chainsaw. If the metal does decompose within the tree the material, once again it can cause an internal toxic poisoning which reduces tree health. A tree in a weakened stage may die from other stress such as drought.

Please be aware that if there is a community desire to make changes to a public park such as adding art, removing invasive plants, wild crafting, building a trail or adding outdoor furniture, proper authorization must be obtained from the CVRD Parks Department prior to undertaking any changes. This authorization will ensure that the proposed activities are supported by the local Parks Commission, that the activities meet safety regulations, align with community expectations and are properly and sustainably developed.

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If you require further information, feel free to contact the CVRD Parks Department at 1-800-665-3955 or send an email to rdias@cvrd.bc.ca.

Early Start to the 2015 Fire Season: Most Area H residents are well informed about the lack of snow pack within the watersheds of the Cowichan region as well as the lower than average precipitation. We will very likely be facing serious drought conditions this summer. As a result the low snow pack and lower precipitation, storage in our natural water systems is also lower than usual. In rural areas such as ours, where we obtain our water supply from wells, residents don’t need to be reminded to conserve water. Water conservation is part of our life style and it is taken into consideration with every breath we take.

However, there is another risk that must be taken into consideration by rural residents. Our forested areas and our spacious farm fields and other natural assets are part of the reason we choose to live in a rural area. But these assets can quickly become a serious risk when the temperature rises and precipitation is low.

Here are some tips to help you prevent and prepare for a wildfire should it occur: 1) Assess the risks on your property and know your trouble spots. Being aware of problem areas can help reduce the risks; 2) Develop a written or verbal fire prevention and management plan that addresses the risks on your property; 3) Be prepared and have tools such as permanently attached hoses, rakes, picks, and shovels already in a strategic position in problem areas; 4) clear away loose debris, low hanging tree limbs, and other hazards to create a safety zone of at least 10 metres to lessen the spread of fire; 5) ensure your water source is safe and that your well pump system is not vulnerable to fire burning through the electrical connections to your pump; 6) be aware of other hazards on your properties such as propane tanks, gas filled jerry cans and lawn mowers to lessen the risk of an explosion accelerating a fire condition; 7) regularly monitor North Oyster Fire & Rescue signage showing the local fire hazard rating.

These are just some sample ideas that you can take to prepare for an event which we hope will never happen. If you

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require additional information please call our local Department at 250-2455111 or contact ssandersan@cvrd.bc.ca For more information please check out the CVRD website (cvrd.bc.ca.), the North Oyster Fire Department web site (NOVFD.ca), as well as the Department’s twitter and face book accounts.

Cowichan Valley Arts Council Funding: Recently, the Regional Board considered how to best support and fund the various arts councils in the valley. After much discussion, the Board is planning to hold a region wide alternate approval process to enable the Regional District to fund the various groups through taxation.

If you recall, in November of 2014 an alternate approval process for each area was used to determine which areas would agree to fund the Cowichan Sportsplex. Each individual jurisdiction had the ability participate or opt out. If this process proceeds, it will not be the case for this situation. All the areas will be lumped together and the jurisdictions with the larger populations can force those who do not wish to participate in the function. Individual areas will not be allowed to opt out.

I have a number of concerns regarding this process and do not support moving forward as it is proposed. I will keep you informed about this issue as it moves through the system.

I wish you a safe and happy summer.

CVRD Area G (Saltair) Princess Diana Park Kiosk A new kiosk was erected in Diana Princess of Wales Park to commemorate the gifting of 23.3 acres of land in Saltair to the CVRD for park purposes.

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Princess Diana Park Kiosk

Patricia Dornbosch and Diana Hall, sisters and longtime owners of the land, loved the land so much and thought that the land should be kept in perpetuity for residents of Saltair. The sisters communicated with the Royal Family in Britain to get approval for the naming. We have yet to have any of the Royal Family visit the park but hope that it will happen someday. The sisters loved the natural forest with all its wonderful plants and animals.

The park is heavily forested and relatively level which makes it perfect for older residents with mobility issues. On hot summer days the forest canopy provides for a cool walk and the dog walkers love it too. It is a very peaceful place with the continuous songs of birds echoing through the forest. Parks and trails are so much the fabric of Saltair.

Saltair Beach With the weather heating up, a perfect place to spend the afternoon is at Saltair Beach. You drive or walk down to the very end of South Oyster School Road and there is a parking lot. At the back of the parking lot there is a stairway leading to beach. On a day with a low tide there is

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a wide expansive safe beach to swim and play on. Very nice fine sand feels good on your bare feet. Historically many families picnicked down there. In the late afternoon or anytime from noon on you can sit in the shade and have your lunch under the alder trees. The beach has a very gradual slope so you can wade out a long ways. And when the tide is coming in the water warms from the heat of the warm sand. Children love to bring little shovels and buckets to discover what is buried in the sand or collect seashells or ride on a piece driftwood pretending it is a boat. Some of the older kids try to climb up on the big rock left there by the glaciers. Saltair Beach is one the finest beaches on Vancouver Island. It is not big like Parksville or Long Beach but the water is much warmer. Most of the sand is deposited as a result of Stocking Creek running into Ladysmith harbour carrying silt especially in the winter.

Two Public Hearings In Saltair The first hearing had to do with a resident wanting to have more chickens than the permitted 12 under the current bylaws. The person wanted to sell eggs as an added income to their pension. The CVRD thought that it could be allowed under a temporary use permit that would last for three years and then renewed again. But it turns out that the cost to do the public consultation with ads in the paper etc would come to about $1000 which is cost prohibitive. The ads themselves would come to about $700. When the gathering was asked for a show of hands as to whether they think we should proceed with the permitting process about 70 per cent said forget about it. The bylaw will go to the CVRD for a final decision.

The second hearing was about another commercial development near Byron’s Store. The plan was to have one good sized commercial building near Chemainus Road and seven housing lots in behind. The owner would dedicate about 3 1/2 acres at the back of the property to Stocking Creek Park as an amenity.

The new housing lots at the back would be called Residential 4, a new Zone for Saltair. The new zone requires a dedication of parkland to Stocking Creek Park.

Stocking Creek Park now has about 36.3 acres and this dedication will make it about 40 acres if the rezoning goes through at the CVRD level.

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St. John’s Wort Hypericum perforatum Today, the dawn found me gathering the delicate flowers of St. John’s Wort in an open waste area. It was a perfect bud and newly emerging flower fresh and bright in the morning air. This is the prize that I wait for; this oil is irreplaceable.

If you look closely at the flower of St. John’s Wort you will see black dots around the margin of each petal - this is where the oil is found. Crush a petal and the red oil exudes.

Take a glass jar with good lid with you to the field and gather the fresh blossom just after the dew has dissipated. At

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home cover these blossoms with your favourite vegetable oil (almond, canola, grape) and place in a sunny window or out of doors in a sunny spot .... shake anytime you think of it to keep things stirred up. After 14 days you should have oil that is a faint to brilliant red depending on the plants’ environment.

This oil is destined for two dear friends who suffer from sciatica. It is particularly useful for lessening the radiating pain of sciatica. When rubbed over inflamed joints it stimulates cellular metabolism, this further allays pain (anodyne) and reduces inflammation; particularly joint inflammation.

The flower and leaf of St. John’s wort have been used for centuries as a sleeping aid. Now research has validated its use to relieve anxiety, nervous tension, insomnia, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and depression. It is also prescribed for menopausal disturbances, premenstrual syndrome, shingles, bladder control problems, and for pain and inflammation caused by nerve damage.

This is a noxious weed in many provinces due to its invasion of rangeland and photosensitization of livestock; so

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St. John’s Wort Photo: Kahlee Keane

it may have been sprayed with chemicals poisonous to we humans. Be careful where you WildCraft your medicine.

Kahlee’s new book The Standing People: Wild Medicinal Plants of British Columbia is available at The Book Nook in Chemainus and Ladysmith Health Foods. It may be ordered from Amazon.ca or www.thestandingpeople.com.

Kahlee’s email: symbionts@shaw.ca

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Things that flutter in the evening light Twilight in the summer is a wonderful time to be outside and experience that in-between time when the temperatures cool, the birds sing their last songs of the day and head to their night roosts and the creatures of the night become active. As the first stars start to twinkle, bats wake from their day time torpor (a state where they reduce their heart rate and respiration to conserve energy) and begin to fly and look for food. The bat family is a large one – over 1000 species worldwide – as well as one which occupies a variety of habitats and with varied food preferences. Many feed on fruit, pollen and nectar and many are important in the pollination of plants. Only three species feed on blood and these are in central and south America. Most species and all of the species in Canada feed on a variety of night flying insects such as mosquitoes and moths. By operating at night they avoid competition for insects from daytime predators of insects such as birds. BC has 16 species of bats - the greatest diversity of any province in Canada – and 10 are found on Vancouver Island. The most common around here are the Little Brown, Big Brown and Yuma Bats.

The distribution pattern and diversity of species is largely determined by climate and habitat – in particular roosting sites. Natural roosts include tree cavities, behind loose bark and even branches which are thickly covered by foliage.

The roosts occupied by females and young are called maternal roosts and are chosen based on temperature requirements. High temperatures promote lactation as well as the development of the young. Attics which heat up during the day can provide these qualities and will be used as maternal roosts. Males occupy separate roosts that are cooler. This

allows the bats to lower their body temperatures and metabolic rate to conserve energy. Night roosts are where bats rest and digest their food between foraging.

Little is known about the over-wintering behaviour of BC’s bats. Some hibernating caves have been found but the numbers in each is too low to account for the numbers we see all summer. Do most migrate far afield or are they hibernating close by in smaller groups? Caves, mine entrances and thick-walled trees (such as hollow cedars) are the most likely candidates for overwintering sites. Many overwintering sites (caves and mines) in eastern North America have now become colonized by fungus which infects bats (white nose syndrome) and has caused catastrophic declines in bat population.

So far this has not been found in BC. Like our species, bats are mammals that produce milk for their young. We also share a similar basic body structure such as arms, legs, feet, wrists, hands and fingers. Selection pressures over time have given bats the unique ability among mammals to fly. Other flying mammals such as flying squirrels actually glide and cannot sustain flight as a bat can. Flight is an energy intensive way to move around and as a consequence bats require three to five times as much food as a similar sized mammal. The benefit of this extra metabolic expenditure is that flying allows bats to cover larger

Long-legged Myotis. Photo C. Engelstoft

distances. The wing consists of two layers of skin stretched over the usual mammalian design of arms, hands and fingers. There is also a skin membrane which extends between the hind legs and the tail. In flight the arms and fingers are outstretched and the wing membranes are tight. At rest the wing membranes are folded and drawn in against the body.

The saying “blind as a bat” is a misnomer. Bats can see very well. However, this sense is not useful when hunting for insects at night. Instead, at night they use echolocation to move around the landscape as well as to hunt. They emit high frequency calls and listen to the returning echoes to locate nearby objects. The frequency (up to 200 calls per second when zeroing in on prey) and intensity varies depending on what they are trying to do. In spite of this sophisticated hunting method, insects do find ways to escape. Studies of Big Brown Bats and Tiger Moths are now revealing that the Tiger Moth can jam the sonar of echo locating bats. As a bat hones in on a moth, the moth produces calls at rates of 4500 times per second. This seems to confuse the bats normal processing of echoes and they lose the target.

Other mammals to varying degrees have the ability to echolocate. Some whales and dolphins are well known

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Bat houses encourage bats which help to reduce the mosquito population near your home. Photo courtesy of Jay Rastogi

for this. Some humans – particularly vision-impaired, have also trained themselves to use clicks and analyze the returning echoes to “see” the landscape, up to the point of being able to ride a bicycle and go hiking and camping on their own. Some nocturnal birds (such as swiftlets of S.E. Asia) use echolocation for navigation and for finding food.

Bats are frequently maligned and misunderstood, but this is more likely because we know them so poorly. While their nocturnal habitats make them difficult to observe and study, they are a fascinating group of animals with remarkable adaptations.

Sources: bcbats.ca. batcon.org Bats of British Columbia (David W. Nagorsen and R. Mark Brigham); Wildlife and Trees in British Columbia (Mike Fenger, Todd Manning, John Cooper, Stewart Guy and Peter Bradford), C. Englestoft (personal communication) Jay Rastogi is a naturalist, hoticulturalist and educator living in Yellow Point. Reach him at ecoforestry@gmail.com

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An Open Letter To Honda Dear Honda: I need your help. It’s the borrowed truck thing again. My brother-in-law got a new truck, and unlike the old dented one I don’t feel comfortable borrowing it. This new one is gigantic, easily the size of a BC Ferry, but without the bow thrusters, it’s just not as easy to park.

Plus, how do you dump a steaming load of manure into something so nice?

I realize it’s time to get my own truck, but I just need a small one, Honda Fit size. So I went north of town where the car dealerships are, and was told they don’t make small pickups any more.

Even the Ford Ranger is no longer with us. Now we have mid-sized trucks. Option one out and the change from $40K might buy you a cheeseburger, but don’t expect fries and a drink.

That’s why I’m asking you to make a Fit size truck, something large enough for light gardening needs, but small enough a ladder won’t be required to clean the roof if you should parallel park under a seagull.

Now I know what your marketing guys are saying. “Doesn’t this rube know North Americans like big, powerful, four-wheel- drive, trucks capable of towing the Queen Mary over the Rockies?”

As the Ford salesman put it, “For every ten Rangers we’d sell 400 F-150’s.”

That’s why we’re going after a new market. One the chauvinists at the Big Three have overlooked. Okay ladies, you can come out now.

That’s right. Women. Think about it.

Vehicles are fashion statements. All you have to do is make driving a smll truck cool and women will come in droves.

It won’t be as hard as you think. If the Gods of Fashion got every teenage girl in the mid-eighties wearing Jane Fonda leg warmers to the mall, in the summer,

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how hard can it be to talk them into a cute, practical, fuel efficient truck.

Remember, you’ve done this before.

Talked women into vehicles that used to be off limits. I’m talking about your early motorcycles. “You meet the nicest people on a Honda,” remember that? It was the greatest, most effective advertising campaign the world has ever seen.

Business schools still study it.

Not only did you change society’s opinion about motorcycles, but also you gave women permission to ride them.

Your ads (bold at the time) featured woman in both slacks and dresses having fun riding motorcycles. Way more fun than they ever did wearing leg warmers.

“You’re going to need protection when your wife finds out about the new toys.”

Your first task is to convince women that the SUV era is over. Run advertisements showing SUV’s roaming the earth with dinosaurs, one nibbles what’s left of the lawn, the other sucking oil out of the earth. Then cue up the Beach Boys Honda song. “I’m going to wake you up early and I’m gonna take a ride with you.

We’re goin down to the Honda shop and I’ll tell you what we’re gonna do. “ What you’re going to do is make them something that’s both fun and practical to drive. My advice is to drag Brian Wilson out of that tree he’s been hiding in for the last half of the century and get him to revamp the Honda song, you know, something like this: “It’s not a big, four-wheel drive, just a groovy little pick up truck. More fun than a barrel of monkeys my two wheel drive truck.”

Your ads should show empowered women having fun with their little Hondas. Shoveling bark mulch out the back, helping the daughter move, unloading bicycles, that kind of thing. Count on men’s support here, as an empowered women doing even more of the work allows a man more time for his own pursuits, usually which involve a beer can.

Now for the most important part.

Aside from being reliable, fun to drive, inexpensive to own and operate, the new Honda mini truck must instill passion.

I envision bright colours, Tonka Truck Yellow, British Gardening Green, that

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kind of thing. You’ll want painted, metal interior, with round, classic gauges, no spacey, ribbon speedometer for this guy.

Be prepared to borrow styling clues from the past, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Get a guy like Chip Foose, the custom car guy, in on the design process. For a name I’m suggesting Fitlet, but then what do you expect from a guy named Delbert.

You’ll know the styling is right when customers take the truck home that first night and sleep with it. Like the time with my new bicycle. After my wife went to bed, I brought it into our living room, grabbed some cushions and a blanket off the couch, lay down beside it and cast longing glances at the derailleur until nodding off. (Not a recommended practice with a jealous wife, especially if she owns a handgun.)

If you go about it right, you might even be able to talk guys out of their $70,000 monster trucks. When it gets right down to it, a Fitlet is all the truck they really need. Room in the cab for a pencil thin lap top, room in the box for Egg McMuffin wrappers. With the $50K saved buying a Fitlet, a guy could stop at the Honda shop and pick up an ATV, an 800cc V-4 touring bike. Two 600 cc, 15000 rpm crotch rockets, one as backup for when you crash the first. A dirt bike, a 10hp outboard. A 7000-watt generator for partying at the lake. A heavy-duty roto tiller. A large capacity water pump in case the lake gets too high. A state of the art self propelled, multi- gadget lawnmower for your recently empowered wife. And, let me see now. Oh yeah, some Kevlar Moto Cross armour and a good helmet.

You’re going to need protection when your wife finds out about the new toys.

So, Honda, there’s the plan. If you’re looking for other ideas on how to go broke fast, give me a call. In the mean time, if you see my brother in law, tell him if he wants his truck back, he’ll have to come down to Buckerfields, home of the narrow parking space, and fetch me. I’m wedged between two vans and can’t get out.

When your Fitlet arrives, give it a test drive up to Oliver and pick up an assortment of Gehringer whites, ten percent off if you buy a case. Available in liquor stores as well.

Delbert Horrocks is a co-proprietor at Mahle House Restaurant. Follow him at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com

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JULY 2015

LRCA’s Dennis Lait retires

BY ROB JOHNSON It’s hard not to associate the name Ladysmith Resources Centre Association without having Dennis Lait’s name come to mind. There is good reason for this. Dennis as Executive Director of the LRCA for the last 20 years has been the face of the organization. He has been a force behind its growth in the community. But now after 23 years Dennis is retiring and looking forward to spending his hours playing with his grandson Lynden, working in his yard and just kicking back.

Lait’s role within the LRCA goes back to 1993 when he along with five other individuals saw a need for a social service centre to supply and coordinate programs within Ladysmith where they could really understand the needs of this community. They felt so strongly that they each reached into their pockets and contributed $500 each to get an organization up and running. At that time

Dennis Lait, executive director of Ladysmith Resources Centre Association retires after nearly a quarter of a century of good deeds. Photo: Rob Johnson

Dennis was a Corporal in the Ladysmith detachment of the RCMP. Despite his work load, he took on the role of Treasurer of this new organization. Then in 1995 after 27 years of service with the RCMP he quit to become LRCA’s first and so far only Executive Director.

In this position, he could dedicate his effort in running and expanding the organization. Over the years LRCA has excelled in its functions, winning major awards, and becoming an example for other organizations.

The role of Executive Director morphed into many unexpected roles.

When the LRCA moved into new premisses, he became a carpenter, plumber, painter and helped coordinate volunteers to create offices and meeting spaces.

During these renovations, it was not unusual to see Lait working from early mornings to late into the night on top of a full day doing his regular job. All those extra hours of work he did strictly on a volunteer basis. He felt that with limited financial resources, the LRCA funding should go to programs. Money was and is still an ongoing concern, as at times the funds from government supported programs vanished or were severely cut back, causing some real cash flow problems. During these times Lait, along with other staff, often went months without pay to ensure that the LRCA wouldn’t have to close it doors or cut needed programs. Under Lait and the Board of Directors’ leadership, along with exceptional staff, the LRCA has grown from just a few services to a

true services centre for the community, currently running or supporting over 25 programs and services for people of all ages and social backgrounds.

One particular program exemplifies Lait’s dedication. In 1997, the Town approached the LRCA to take over its Christmas Cheer program which is still running to this day. Lait’s truck could be seen running all over town picking up food and gifts for Christmas Hampers. These hampers are welcome gifts for those in need to ensure that everyone has a great Christmas, especially the kids. Once the hundreds of hampers of donated food and gifts were distributed, Lait could enjoy his Christmas with his family knowing that the that those who needed help were taken care of. But not always so. On one Christmas Eve, Lait was at home when he received a call that a single mother with youngsters were either unaware of the program or unwilling to ask for help. On receiving the call, Lait left his own family and headed off to see what was still available that night. After collecting food and toys he personally dropped off the hamper, to a teary eyed young mother who only had cereal for their Christmas dinner. The kids would have gone without toys that Christmas. She was grateful and thanked everyone who made these donations, and especially Lait for seeing that she and her kids could have a Christmas to remember.

Lait’s legacy continues with the good work going on every day at the Ladysmith Resources Centre.

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FOR SALE CAMPERS CORNER MARKET will be open June 11 thru September 11 weekdays from noon to 5 pm. and Saturdays during the Flea Market. New, used, collectibles, vintage and antiques. 10935 Trans Canada Highway, Ladysmith, 250 245 3829 HUGE MOVING SALE - Aug 7 , 8, 9 & 10 from 9 5pm 13230 Code Rd. Lots of household items SET OF 4 TIRES – White Claw size 185/60R1482J Extreme Grip $ 200.00 O.B.O. for the set 250245-5440 WANTED EMPLOYMENT WANTED Senior needs help, willing to earn it. Own car, clean record, wants part time work. Driver, pick ups, deliveries, errands, keeping appointments or what have you! Available any time 250-245-4062 BUSINESS FOR ALL YOUR SEWING NEEDS – bedding, window treatments, couch & chair covers, cushions, pillows, special accessories and décor, dressmaking and alterations – whatever comes to your mind, Elke 250-618-1172 or info@ egrstudios.com KEN’S MOBILE MARINE SERVICE, over 25 yrs licensed Marine Mechanic, repairing & maintaining diesel, inboard, outboard, stern drives, electrical etc. We come to you. Call Ken 250-210-0756 BARNACLE BILL’S CHARTERS Fishing, prawning, crabbing and sightseeing. Call 250210-0787 or 250 245 4185 PASSPORT PHOTOS, camera repair and sales, film sales and developing. All your photographic copy and restoration needs. Peacock Copy and Restoration, 521 Canada Ave., Duncan 250-7489923 EDUCATION SUMMER CAMPS FOR KIDS ON NOW! Sense of Place Youth Project Ltd at North Oyster Community Centre (Lic#KRIS-9MPPYV) 7:30 TO 5:30 PM Mon - Fri! Weekly themes: nature programming, arts/crafts, hiking, building, music, games etc! Full, part time & drop-in spots, subsidy welcome 250-667-1222 OR 250-618-3396 www. senseofplaceyp.com patti@senseofplaceyp.com Register your 5 to 12 year old now!!!

JULY 2015

TEEN CAMPS - Teen Cycling Camp, Teen Fishing Camp and Teen Theatre Camp at Camp Pringle on Shawnigan Lake August 10 - 14, 2015 for ages 12 – 15. Teen Adventure Camp which includes sailing, tubing, canoeing and paddle boarding.

August 17 - 21, 2015. Contact www.camppringle. ca or 250- 743-2189 HEALTH & BEAUTY IISAGENIX DISTRIBUTOR - Get Lean & Healthy Fast - Less than $5/ meal. Our protein shakes are amazing!

- No Gluten, Wheat, Barley or Trans Fat. www. taketimetoday.com Suzanne Deveau 250-245-8407 BOWEN TECHNIQUE is a gentle soft tissue remedial therapy that resets the body to heal itself. Useful for joint, back and neck pain, frozen shoulder, asthma, chronic fatigue and many other problems. For information and appointments call 250-245-7738. Lilja Hardy FMBAC in practice since 1994. www.bowtech.com TAI CHI - For mental and physical health. Beginner class starts September and February, Mondays, ongoing class Wednesdays. Both classes 10am-12 noon, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 McMillan Road. $20/mo.

Sara 250-245-1466 or www.nanaimotaichi.org HOME & YARD PAINT & SAVE OPTION- Do it yourself, with a little help from a pro. Together we can make your job more affordable and accomplish a great look.

Making the world a brighter place for over 25 years. Call Harvey for more information please.

250-245-2174 INTERIOR PAINTING - Refresh your walls... and your spirits! Careful, respectful work. Attention to detail. Help with colour choice. No job too small.

Reasonable rates. Kari 250-245-2751 PAINT CHICA - A beautiful furniture and vintage studio, specializing in artistic and rustic painted furniture finishes, furniture paint/ supplies, workshops, vintage decor/collectibles. Open Wed -Sun 11 to 4, find me on Facebook!

NEWLIFE YARDWORK and PAINTING – Lawn mowing, weeding, power washing, rubbish removal, gutter cleaning. Prompt, courteous, reliable service for your home or business. Contact Terry at 250668-8383 or newlifeyardwork@gmail.com ISLAND KING RENOS LTD. - Kitchen-BathTile-Backsplash-Countertops-Flooring-DrywallPaint-Siding-Fences-Decks INTERIOR and EXTERIOR. Quote by JOB not by the HOUR. www.islandkingrenos.com 250-924-4924 QUALITY RENOVATIONS Big or small. 25 yrs exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate call Lars. 250-616-1800 HOME & GARDEN PHOTOGRAPHY - On-site service from $50. 250-245-9165 Marina.

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JULY 2015

TAKE 5 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 BI-MONTHLY CLEANING for houses.

Experienced, reliable and attention to detail. $20 per hour. References available. Ladysmith and Chemainus. 250-246-4938 Jamie and Ingrid AJ’S HOME CLEANING top to bottom service.

General, event, windows, we’ll even make your bed! Great for families, seniors, single parents, construction companies, office cleaning, flexible service schedule. Alicia 250-709-1364 SASSA’S HOME AND GARDEN CARE. No job too big or small. Affordable honest work. Duo team. Cleaning, Gardening Painting, and Gutter Cleaning. Outside and inside your home or business. 250-924-4735 or 250-218-4735 THE HAPPY GARDENER. Weeding, digging, raking, cutting back, etc. I also do Window Washing and Odd Jobs. Cheerful and Conscientious. Call David at 250-618-9217 RAISED GARDEN BEDS, planters, railings, decks, benches, woodsheds, greenhouses.

Enhance your enjoyment of home & yard you love.

Namaste Home Improvements 250-245-2751 ISLAND PRUNING - Professional tree care from large scale orchards to budding new trees. I

take5.ca can meet any pruning need. Shrubs, vines and ornamentals. Large and small clean ups. Call Darcy Belcourt 250-245-1260 PETS KITTY KORNERS CAT HOTEL - Purrsonalized Quality Kitty Care. Daily health checks, experienced with special needs kitties.

Reasonable rates. Available 24/7. 2 km north of Nanaimo Airport. Take a virtual tour www. kittykorners.com 250-740-KATS (5287) 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

45 with pet in your home and much more. As my love is yours! 250-246-3394 TOO CRAZY BIRDY HOTEL , travel with peace of mind, parrot boarding in a home setting, birds and only birds, budgies to macaws, nightly rate $5, $10, $15, sml,md, lrg. Prebooking visits welcome. Diana and Kip Slater 250-722-2201 www.toocrazybirdyhotel.com SENIORS MID-ISLAND HOME SUPPORT since 2009.

Personal assistance and house cleaning available.

Bondable, licenced, certified and insured for your safety and ours. For the best rates around please call 250-924-2273 (CARE)

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