TAKE 5
take5.ca
3
TAKE 5
take5.ca
Letters Trail Users I’d like to comment on the article “Trail Users Shut Out of Hemer and Boat Harbour” in the Dec/Jan issue of TAKE 5. I’ve lived in this area for over 40 years, so I too am somewhat affected by recent land sales and development, and I feel I also have something to say on the matter. Firstly, if in fact there is legal “claim to use” of certain trails through private lands, then that will or should be decided by the presiding authorities, or if necessary, through the court system. But there is other considerations which apply and which ought to be addressed. In the last 10 years or so, we have had an influx of horse owners in this area. These people seem to have an unusual sense of entitlement, and an equally unusual lack of responsibility and consideration for their neighbours. They seem to feel entitled to ride their horses anywhere they like — even through other people’s property. Some of these horse people have lived in this area only a few years, and moved here apparently thinking they have “carte blanche” rights to ride their horses anywhere they feel like. But worse, they seem oblivious to the fact that their horses are defecating everywhere they go, thus defiling all the roads, trails and yes, even the maintained road allowances (boulevards) in front of other people’s property. Everywhere you drive now, and every walking trail left to us, is littered with horse excrement, which we must drive through, walk through or otherwise try to dodge around. It’s disgustingly irresponsible and inconsiderate in my opinion — and in the opinion of many others I know. I regularly take a shovel on walks in my area, cleaning up after these irresponsible people. I’m very tempted to deliver it to their personal driveways — I wonder how they’d like that? Why can’t these horse people carry shovels with them, dismount and remove their horses waste at least off the roads and trails and into the bush. Or, return in their vehicles after their rides, clean up after themselves and take it back to where it belongs — on their own property. — Robert (Bob) Scott
Area A Director’s Notes inappropriate I am absolutely appalled that you have let the Area A Director submit a non -director article! It is full of propaganda and grey areas, and it is not in the best interest of all ratepayers in his area. Clearly he is overstepped his bounds within the RDN, and
7
8
take5.ca
believe me, they are hearing from quite a few people concerning this article. As for Take 5, you have lost a lot of credibility with this article, and I for one would like to see an article apologizing to the administrator and the board of trustees at NCID. — Shirley Gueho (Past Chair and Trustee at NCID)
Re: RDN Area A Director submission to the February TAKE 5 Issue Thank you for giving me the opportunity to write a letter of clarification on behalf of the North Cedar Improvement District regarding the above mentioned letter to the editor. It is unfortunate that Mr. Proctor and Mr. McPherson submission misrepresents NCID’s intentions. The District also understands that only one (1) page from the District’s consultant reports have been posted on a Facebook group causing further misrepresentations of NCID’s intention. These reports have now been posted on NCID’s website for all to read and inform themselves. Mr. McPherson seems to have forgotten his role and participation in the process of the necessary land acquisition of the parcel know as 1723 Cedar Road. The plan to acquire this site has not changed from when Mr. McPherson was a Trustee/Finance Chair (2010-2011), then the Chairperson (2011-2012) of the District. The plan was included in the 2011 general meeting report that was handed out to all ratepayers. The document is attached for your reference. This District has sought after this land for years and made multiple offers to the previous owners only to have Mr. Proctor step in and purchase it privately from the estate of the deceased
MARCH 2016
former owner in the face of the District’s offers. Mr. Proctor declined to sell it to the District when we became aware of his involvement. The following are the material facts: 1. For in excess of five years the District has worked with the previous land owner to develop test wells on her land to determine the productivity of the aquifer thereon adjacent to the Nanaimo River to provide the community with a reliable source of water. We paid her for those studies and those test wells. 2. There is an existing operating well on the site supplying water to the District. What is required is an expansion of the facilities in a dramatic fashion including a substantial treatment facility in order to comply with current provincial water safety regulations administered by Island Health (VIHA). 3. This site is 10 acres, 6.6 of it in a low lying flood plain area adjacent to the Nanaimo River where the wells are situated and 3.4 of it in the upland area fronting on Cedar Road. 4. The entirety of the lowland area requires protection for the proposed additional wells. Two other layers of legislation prohibit development/construction on the lowland area according to both the floodplain and riparian area regulations. The well protection area designated by the District’s consultants is in accordance with Provincial Regulations for domestic water safety. A wellhead protection plan is required to protect public health by protecting well water quality. 5. The treatment facility must be operational by January 31, 2018 as directed by Island Health’s order to the District. In order to meet this timeline for construction of the facility, and development of the water wells must be undertaken immediately.
TAKE 5
6. The apparent suggestion by Mr. Proctor that the District should build millions of dollars of permanent facilities on the land that he would remain the owner of after all of the District’s requirements for the land are deducted is not realistic. His interference with the District’s long planned site acquisition to develop the badly needed enhanced water supply and build the required treatment facilities is the central problem faced by the District. Mr. Proctor has been offered full market value payment for the land. If he chooses to dispute the valuation placed on it by the District’s appraisers, then he is entitled to do so and claim compensation as he sees appropriate before the Supreme Court for the Province of British Columbia. The Trustees consider all matters regarding the water supply to be urgent and have been diligently working on those issues for the benefit of the District and our community, and not for any individual person or entity. - Peter Johnson, NCID Board Chairperson
take5.ca
9
Historic Waterfront incorrect captions There are several incorrect captions in the TAKE 5/Feb 2016, Historic Waterfront article. Photo p. 14, Transfer Beach back in the 1950s: Such freighters as the three shown did not exist in the 1950s; at earliest these would be in the late ‘60s, or more likely in the ‘70s. Photo p.17, U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bear. It isn’t. The Bear was a wood steam schooner built in 1874 and had three masts. The vessel illustrated is an iron or steel four-masted barque, dating from 1885 or later. This vessel has the spike bowsprit of latter-day sailing ships, whereas the Bear had the older style bowsprit and jib-boom until the end of her days (1963 surprisingly). — John Anderson Letters to the editor is an open forum for the commuity to exchange comments and ideas. Please note letters may be edited for space, and legality. Articles published in TAKE 5 do not nescessarily reflect the opinions of TAKE 5. editor@take5.ca
10
Public engagement One of council’s six new strategic priorities is communications and public engagement. As I have said all along, local governments need to be more accountable and transparent. We need to connect in meaningful ways with the citizens we serve, and we need the citizens to know that we value their input. Some of the ways we would like to enhance our communications and your engagement include: • Using technology to deliver more timely information • Video streaming/archiving council meetings
take5.ca
• Hosting regular Town Hall meetings • Engaging the community in Town strategies • Identifying opportunities for more public involvement in our decisions (participatory decision making) • Carrying out a comprehensive review of our commission and committee structure We are already delivering on many of these actions. At our February 15 meeting, council approved a staff recommendation for a system to record, stream and archive all public council meetings. The new system will be installed soon. If you can’t get to a council meeting, you will be able to watch it at your convenience through the Town’s website. I hope you had a chance to fill out the citizen survey for our new Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan. If you didn’t get to take part in the survey, there will be more opportunities to engage in that process. This is the kind of approach we will take with other Town plans and initiatives, including the Waterfront Plan and our commission/committee system. Stay tuned to our various communications vehicles for information on these and other initiatives.
MARCH 2016
Speaking of communications vehicles, we are also greatly enhancing ways we reach out to citizens. Last summer, we launched the Town’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/LadysmithBC), and we are now on Twitter, too (www. twitter.com/TownOfLadysmith @ TownOfLadysmith). We will continue to send out our Ladysmith Links newsletter with the utility bills and tax notices and would love to hear from you if you have requests for information or news that you would like us to share. Did you also know that we have a Town of Ladysmith e-mail distribution list? This is how we provide updates on council meetings and other events and important information. If you’d like to be on that list, send an e-mail to info@ladysmith.ca. It’s that simple. Our website is a wealth of information, and again, if you go to www. ladysmith.ca and can’t find what you are looking for, let us know and we would be pleased to find the information and update the website if possible. With our budget deliberations, we have scheduled meetings at different times and days to give as many people
TAKE 5
as possible an opportunity to attend the meetings, ask questions and have their say. We take our desire for transparency and accountability seriously. I speak for both council and staff when I say we are open to suggestions from our citizens and always happy to answer questions. The more questions and suggestions we get, the more engaged we all are in our future. The best way to make sure people are informed and engaged is to offer sincere meaningful two-way communications. And this is where you, the citizens of Ladysmith, are also accountable. If you want to know more about something that we are doing, ask someone who knows or who can find the answer — that could be me, another member of council, or one of our professional staff. You’re unlikely to find the correct information by asking a general question on Facebook or other social media outlets. Worse yet, you may get a variety of opinions without the facts and perspective required to form your own opinion. We can’t expect staff and members of council to monitor every Facebook page out there. We can, however, provide specific and detailed answers if you direct your questions to the Town. You can do this through our Town of Ladysmith or my (Aaron Stone – Working Together) Facebook page, or you can call City Hall or send an e-mail to myself, another councillor or Town staff. We are making efforts to find ways to communicate and engage with you. I sincerely hope that you want to be part of these positive changes, will engage yourself, make an effort to seek out the information you need, and be constructive in your input. It takes all of us working together to build our future. Connect with us: Council e-mail addresses: astone@ladysmith.ca sarnett@ladysmith.ca cfradin@ladysmith.ca jfriesenhan@ladysmith.ca chenderson@ladysmith.ca rhutchins@ladysmith.ca dpaterson@ladysmith.ca Town e-mail address: info@ladysmith.ca City Hall Phone: 250-245-6400 Mayor’s City Hall number (forwards to my cell) 250-245-6403.
take5.ca
11
12
take5.ca
MARCH 2016
TAKE 5
take5.ca
13
COMPILED BY CINDY DAMPHOUSSE AND ALLEN MCDERMID
10, 7pm, The Nanaimo Cedar Farmers’ Institute Meeting, Country Grocer’s public meeting room, 82-12th St., Nanaimo
19, 2pm to 6pm, Atkinson Brothers, The Wheaty Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-2240 19, 5pm to 8pm, Pot Luck Birthday Party, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-211
March 1-5
10, 7:30pm, “I Am Woman, Hear Me Laff,” Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan, 250-748-7529
2, 1pm to 3pm, Cedar Seniors Drop-in, games and refreshments, all are welcome, Cedar United Church Hall, for more info please call Barb at 250722-2346 or Donna at 250-722-3536
12, 9am to 3pm, Spring Craft Fair, a fundraiser for Cowichan Independent Living, Eagles Hall, 2965 Boys Road, Duncan
March 20-26
12, 10am to 3pm, Cobble Hill Seedy Sunday, 3550 Watson Ave.
20, 10am to 2pm, Duncan Seedy Sunday, 5574 River Rd., Duncan, 250-748-8506
12, 2pm to 6pm, Double Play Acoustic Duo, The Wheaty Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-2240
20, 10am, Palm Sunday St. Philip, 1797 Cedar Rd., Cedar, 250-722-3455
March 13-19
20, 10am, Palm Sunday, St. John, 314 Buller St., 250-245-5512
2, 9:30am to 11am, Muffin Mornings, Wednesdays and Fridays, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111 3–6, Fresh Gallery Show Gala Opening, Canvas Plus, 1-11 Buller St., 250-924-0901 5, 2pm to 6pm, 2-Man Wheaty Band & Guest, The Wheaty Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-2240 5, UFC 196 watch on the big screen, The Cranberry Arms, 1604 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3112
March 6-12 6, 10am to 3pm, Nanaimo Seedy Sunday, 355 Wakesiah Ave. 7–April, Income Tax Returns completed and filed at no cost for qualifying seniors. Sign up at Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250 246-2111 7, doors open 4:45pm, start 6:45, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111 7, 6pm to 8pm, RDN FREE SepticSmart Workshop, Cedar Community Hall, 2388 Cedar Rd., call to reserve 1-888-828-2066 7, 7pm, Town of Ladysmith Regular Council Meetings, Council Chambers, City Hall, 410 Esplande 9, 9:30am to 4pm, Chemainus Sketch Group, Kaye Smillie “Capturing People in a few Strokes,” Fuller Lake Arena 9, 9:30am to 11am, Muffin Mornings, Wednesdays and Fridays, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111 9, 1pm to 3pm, Cedar Seniors Drop-in, games and refreshments, all are welcome, Cedar United Church Hall, for more info please call Barb at 250722-2346 or Donna at 250-722-3536 10, 7 pm, Cedar Community Hall, Boat Harbour Meeting hosted by Cedar Trail Stewards and concened citizens
13, Daylight Savings Time Begins
20, 10am to 5pm, Water Day FREE Community Event, Bowen Park Complex, 500 Bowen Rd.
13, 2:30pm, Janina Fialkowska — Port Theatre for the Nanaimo Conservatory of Music’s annual fundraiser event — $40 and student $25, www. porttheatre.com
20, 2pm, Chemainus Classical Concerts, “L’aube Enchantée,” Alec Pearson (guitar) and Bernard Blary (flute), St Michael’s Church, Chemainus, www.ChemainusClassicalConcerts.ca, 250-7488383
13–14, 7pm, Theatre One presents, Coming Home, Avalon Theatre, 250-754-7587
20–21, 12pm to 5pm, NikkiDesigns Studio Sale, 10969 Hilsea Cr., Saltair, 250-924-5679
14, doors open 4:45pm, start 6:45, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111
21, 6pm, RDN Public Information meeting - Boat Harbour, Cedar Community Hall 2388 Cedar Rd. 250-390-6510
16, 9:30am to 11am, Blood Pressure Clinic, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111
21, 7 pm, Town of Ladysmith Regular Council Meetings, Council Chambers, City Hall, 410 Esplande
16, 10am to 1pm, Chemainus Sketch Group, Come & Paint With Us, Fuller Lake Arena
22, doors open 4:45pm, start 6:45, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111
16, 11am to 1pm, Soup and Sandwich, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111 16, 1pm to 3pm, Cedar Seniors Drop-in, games and refreshments, all are welcome, Cedar United Church Hall, for more info please call Barb at 250722-2346 or Donna at 250-722-3536 16, 9:30am to 11am, Muffin Mornings, Wednesdays and Fridays, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-2462111 17, 7pm,” The Lonely — A Tribute To Roy Orbison,” The Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan, www.cowichanpac.ca, 250-748-7529 17, 7pm, Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club monthly meeting, St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church hall, 314 Buller St. at 3rd Ave.
22, 7:00pm, Ladysmith Camera Club, “International Marine Life of Ladysmith Harbour” by Dr. Rick Harbo, multiple bestselling author and one of the Pacific Northwest’s leading marine photographers, in Hardwick Hall, High St. at 3rd Ave., Ladysmith, www.LadysmithCameraClub.com 23, 9:30am to 11am, Muffin Mornings, Wednesdays and Fridays, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-2462111 23, 9:30am, Chemainus Sketch Group, Donald Fyfe-Wilson, “Mastering Perspective,” Fuller Lake Arena 23, 1pm to 3pm, Cedar Seniors Drop-in, games and refreshments, all are welcome, Cedar United Church Hall, for more info please call Barb at 250722-2346 or Donna at 250-722-3536 23, 7pm, Ladysmith Community Gardens Society
TAKE 5
take5.ca
15
AGM, Ladysmith Resources Centre, upstairs meeting room, 630 2nd Ave., 250-245-0070
27, 10am, Easter Day Holy Eucharist, St. John, 314 Buller St., 250-245-5512
2, 8am to 1pm, Rummage sale, Ladysmith Eagles, 921 First Ave.
23, 10:30am to 11am, Ladysmith Lions 10th Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Transfer Beach, Ladysmith
28, doors open 4:45pm, start 6:45, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111
2, 9am, Ladysmith Sportsman Club Watershed & Area Debris Clean Up, Bush Creek Hatchery, 250713-7737
24, 7pm, Maundy Thursday, St. Philip, 1797 Cedar Rd., Cedar, 250-722-3455
29, Town of Ladysmith Spring Clean Up Week
2, 8pm, The Looprechaun and One Man Rock Show, The Wheaty Pub, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-7222240
25, 10am, Good Friday, St. John, 314 Buller St., 250-245-5512 26, 10:30am, Ladysmith Lions Club 10th Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Transfer Beach 26, 11am, N.O.H.A. Easter Egg Hunt, Ecole North Oyster School 13470 Cedar Rd. 26, 8am and 5pm, Chemainus Theatre — Million Dollar Quartet!
March 27-31 27, Happy Easter
29, doors open 4:45pm, start 6:45, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111 30, 9:30am to 11am, Muffin Mornings, Wed.& Fri, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre Society, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111 30, 1pm to 3pm, Cedar Seniors Drop-in, games and refreshments, all are welcome, Cedar United Church Hall, for more info please call Barb at 250722-2346 or Donna at 250-722-3536
April 1-2
April 3-9 2, Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club Watershed & Area Clean Up, 9 am, Bush Creek Hatchery, 250-2453690, judsonboys@shaw.ca. 3, 10am to 5pm, Water Day FREE Community Event, Qualicum Commons, 744 Primrose Ave., Parksville 3–4, 7pm, Theatre One presents, 45 Years, Avalon Theatre, 250-754-7587
1, 2pm to 8pm, Ladysmith Chamber of Spring Home & Garden Show, Aggie Hall, 1110 1st Ave., 250-245-2112
4, Town of Ladysmith Spring Clean Week
27, 7:30am, Easter Day Sunrise Service, St. Philip, 1797 Cedar Rd., Cedar, 250-722-3455 27, 7:30am, Easter Day Ecumenical Sunrise Service, St. John, Transfer Beach, 250-245-5512
1–2, Town of Ladysmith Spring Clean Up Week
13, Janina Fialkowski piano recital 20, Duncan Seedy Sunday 26, Lions Easter Egg Hunt
27, 10am, Easter Day Holy Eucharist, St. Philip, 1797 Cedar Rd., Cedar, 250-722-3455
2, 10am to 4pm, Ladysmith Chamber of Spring Home & Garden Show, Aggie Hall, 250-245-2112
9, 10am and 1pm , Cowichan Valley Garden Club
16
Boat Harbour concerns There’s clouds gathering over picturesque Boat Harbour. A developer’s plans to dredge and infill the harbour in order to expand a parking lot of the marina has citizens concerned. Tiara Holdings wants to rebuild the ageing marina facility. Many of the docks are in poor condition and there are few amenities. Many would agree that the facility needs improvement, but the loss of public access and the potential environmental impact of the dredging and infill of the harbour have neighbours and others concerned. Two meetings addressing this will be held in March. Cedar Trail & Environmental Stewards and other concerned citizens will be discussing the blocking of trails and the Boat Harbour infill at a public meeting on March 10 at 7 p.m. at the Cedar Community Hall. Later this month the Regional District of Nanaimo is hosting a Public Meeting and Presentation on March 21, 6 p.m. also at the Cedar Community Hall. The developer’s owners Alvin Hui and Roy Ellis are currently finalizing reports with various experts and will be at the meeting to provide information on the parking arrangement and the foreshore filling with a question and answer period. The Cedar Trail & Environmental Stewards banded together when the same developer erected gates and blocked off sections of Hemer Park trails that were on private property. What makes Boat Harbour’s situation unique is that the developer owns the water lot which encompasses the whole bay and extends out. The 42.3 acre water lot is left-over from Boat Harbour’s coal shipping past and was granted by the Crown in 1909 to facilitate the export of coal… basically granting ownership of the seabed. Jeremy Holm of RDN planning says they have received the development per-
Ken Lockhart at Boat Harbour Marina
Cedar Refugee Effort
mit for review. A number of other provincial and federal agencies are also involved making the role of the RDN limited, says RDN Area A Director Alec McPherson. McPherson who has been hearing from concerned citizens and says it’s frustrating. “I can see where local government has very little authority over what can be done.” He adds: “It’s a large issue. I still have lots of questions.” RDN is continuing to meet with the landowner in efforts to secure public trail access from Hemer Provincial Park to Boat Harbour through other forms of agreement. Resident Barbara Storch says “dredging anywhere in Boat Harbour and surrounding area is a bad idea”. She is concerned it will stir up and release toxins from the harbours earlier days as a coal shipping port. Ken Lockhart has lived in Boat Harbour harbour for over 40 years. It’s a peaceful place where residents enjoy boating, snorkeling and kayaking along the coastline. He holds the belief that beaches are public property for everyone’s enjoyment and is concerned that the infill and fenced parking lot will cut off the public access to the foreshore. “The developer is creating new land, once it’s filled. He’s going to pave the ocean and put on a parking lot.” He says his neigbours are strongly opposed to infilling the harbour. The boats at the marina have been given a notice to vacate by April 1, and dredging could start by this June.
BY ANITA BRIDEAU In November, a few members of St. Philip’s Anglican Church parish came together to begin the process of becoming a Refugee Sponsorship Group (RSG). We organized a community meeting to listen to Tony Davis, the liaison to the Anglican diocese who serves as the Sponsorship Agreement Holder. At the first meeting there was a commitment of $4000 and now we have raised over $14,000 with plans to raise $36,000. With the gift of storage space from Nanaimo Mini Storage, we have begun the collection of large new or gently used household items. We have created a wish list of the items that a family might need. The core group includes three members of the parish with Rev. Deborah and three members from the community: Anita Brideau (coordinator), Deborah van der Goes (co-coordinator), Pat McLean (secretary), Harriet Thom (treasurer), Joanne Schilling (fund raising), Carolyn Dieleman (settlement and education), and Jill Lewis (communication and publicity). We encourage all members of the community to join us. CARE’s next fundraiser is Beer and Burger night with a silent auction on April 15 at 5:30 pm at the Old City Station Pub at 150 Skinner Street in Nanaimo. You can donate online at Canada Helps (www.canadahelps.org). Once on the website, enter “Cedar Area Refugee Effort” in the Search by Charity field, and click on the button Donate Now.
18
take5.ca
MARCH 2016
New print gallery opens Ladysmith is the new “hot” art district and Alan Bagshaw, owner of CanvasPlus professional photo printing, was quick to recognize it! Now housed at a warehouse-sized facility at convenient 11 Buller Street in downtown Ladysmith, the space came with a perfect set up for a new print gallery. CanvasPlus supports their artisans, and this unique concept gives art lovers and art buyers a chance to buy beautiful local art at affordable prices. Alan and his team hang work by artists and photographers who have had reproductions completed of their originals. Sizes can go up or down from the original. The reproduction quality is amazing! Come by and perhaps catch the CanvasPlus team in action, framing up a NatGeo piece (Eiko
Alan Bagshaw, owner of CanvasPlus professional photo printing and gallery. Photo: Cindy Damphousee/TAKE 5
Jones), a great family photo collage or memorial canvas. “Our printing and fine-art reproduction services can be used by anyone with a digital, printed or film-based photo
they want to reproduce,” says Bagshaw. To feature special artists using the services at CanvasPlus, Giclee Galley will launch Pop Up shows from the Cedar/ Ladysmith area starting March 4. Artists can arrange small shows for four days length with a low commission rate and no other costs. The CanvasPlus Grand Opening is launching with the first of these Pop Up shows, called “Fresh,” featuring eight local artists, on Friday March 4 at 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Canvasplus.ca for more details.
Acclaimed pianist to perform For the Nanaimo Conservatory of Music’s annual fundraiser event, celebrated pianist and Officer of the Order of Canada, Janina Fialkowska will perform a solo concert at the Port Theatre on Sunday, March 13, at 2:30 p.m. A virtuoso of the Classic and Romantic repertoires, the evening will be a performance of Frédéric Chopin. Tickets for acclaimed pianist Janina Fialkowska’s concert are on sale at the Port Theatre Box Office 250-754-8550 or online at www.porttheatre.com. There will also be a Master Class with Janina Fialkowska from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Monday, March 14, at 375 Selby Street — observers are welcome. A $10 minimum donation is suggested. For further information visit www.ncmusic.ca or call the conservatory at 250754-4611.
TAKE 5
take5.ca
19
22
take5.ca
Top 20 tomato tips Last year’s long hot summer was perfect for bumper tomato harvests, for fresh eating and for preserving either dried, frozen or bottled tomatoes for winter enjoyment. My freezer groaned under the layers of Ziploc bags filled with salsa and tomato and pasta sauces. Did you know that eating two tomatobased meals a week can reduce your risk of cancer by 25 per cent? That’s due to lycopene, the phytonutrient in tomatoes, now recognized as an effective cancer fighter. With keeping healthy in mind, let’s all grow and eat more tomatoes this year. Here are twenty tips to help you grow the best tomatoes ever:
1. Properly stored in cool dark conditions, tomato seeds will keep for five years. Sow high quality seeds into a sterilized growing medium at the end of March. 2. Seeds need 75–85 F (24–29 C) for germination, so provide a heat source. 3. Seedlings need 60 F (16 C) during daytime and at least 40 F (4 C) at night, so do not seed too early unless you can provide heat for growth. 4. Some varieties do not produce well under greenhouse conditions because the pollen becomes sterile in extreme heat. Choose varieties that are recommended for greenhouse growing. 5. After the first set of leaves (cotyle-
MARCH 2016
dons) develop, a set of true leaves appears. Once these have become established, seedlings can be transplanted into their own four-inch (10-cm) pots. 6. Fertilize the pots of seedlings weekly with a dilution of liquid fish fertilizer. 7. Once established, transplant each seedling from a small pot into a onegallon (4.5-L) pot. Let grow until yellow flowers appear, which indicate the plant roots are developed well enough to support fruiting. It’s time to plant them outside. 8. Harden plants off by setting them outdoors during the day and indoors at night for a week before planting, or plant and cover with a cloche. 9. Tomatoes grow best in full sun where they can develop their full flavour. 10. Make sure the ground has warmed up enough before setting indoor-grown seedlings outdoors. For earlier planting, use landscape fabric to warm the soil during the day and trap heat in at night. Plant tomatoes through the fabric. 11. When planting, strip all the leaves off the stem, except for the upper truss. Bury the plant to just below this truss. Roots will develop on the stem buried underground, which strengthens the plant’s ability to thrive and produce. 12. A slightly acidic soil of pH 6.0–6.5 is ideal. Put one tablespoon (5 mL) of magnesium sulphate (Epsom salts) into each planting hole to lower pH and prevent magnesium deficiency. 13. To feed the plants throughout the season, add a handful of balanced organic granular fertilizer to the planting hole. 14. Provide sturdy support stakes for semi-determinate and indeterminate (vining) plants and keep them tied up to these supports. Staking exposes leaves to sunlight and increases fruit production. 15. Erratic watering causes fruit splitting and blossom end rot. Deep soaking is better than light watering. 16. During the growing season, fertilize plants a few times with liquid seaweed to boost fruit production. 17. Remove suckers that grow in leaf axils to maintain the plant with one or two main stems. At the end of August, cut off the tip of the main stem to stop growth and encourage fruit clusters below to ripen. 18. In fall, dig seaweed into the tomato patch to boost harvests the following year. Granular kelp is a good soil
TAKE 5
take5.ca
amendment for boosting tomato production. 19. Green tomatoes? At the end of the growing season (midSeptember) defoliate the plants to expose tomatoes to the sun. This will not harm the plant, but speeds up the ripening of tomatoes. 20. Grow a diversity of tomatoes: cherries and salad for fresh eating and salsas, romas for drying and bottling, and paste for cooking down to soups and sauces. 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 books.
23
24
RDN Area A (Cedar, Cassidy, S. Wellington) The Only Certainties: Death and Taxes? As both personal income and property taxes come due within the next several months, it may be that Benjamin Franklin’s quote has some validity. The table below presents the property taxation situation over the past three years, outlining the service areas residents contribute to. When I was first elected in 2012, it was plain to me that tax rates for the foreseeable future would have to increase at six per cent per year simply to keep the system in place operating. I’m pleased to see that after four years in office that the rate per $100,000 of assessed value will have a zero increase — this, despite growth within the urbangrowth boundary of EA “A” curtailed for a sixth straight year. See table to the right. E-mail: alecmcpherson@shaw.ca.
CVRD Area H (North Oyster, Diamond) REGIONAL RECREATION UPDATE I want to thank all of you who took the time to call, send emails and speak to me in person regarding your concerns about the proposed regional
take5.ca
MARCH 2016
TAKE 5
recreation function. Your message is crystal clear on this matter. Your feedback has indicated that you are not interested in contributing your tax dollars to facilities that are not in your local area; and that you have different goals and priorities than those who come from the core area. I have heard this from not just North Oyster/ Diamond residents, but also from residents in Ladysmith, Saltair and other areas of the Cowichan Valley. Your comments and support have convinced me that I am on the right track. I have come to understand that our reaction is not just about the money. It’s about community values and community priorities. It’s about our rural lifestyles. It’s about all communities, large and small, maintaining control of their own destinies. It’s about each community having the ability to determine their current and future needs. It’s about having meaningful input into where our local tax dollars are going. Forcing smaller areas to pay into facilities that were constructed without giving all residents an opportunity to vote on, whether or not they want to pay to build and operate pools, theatres, community halls and ice rinks, is just plain wrong. The residents of the municipal areas had that opportunity, so it is imperative that rest of the Valley should have that opportunity as well. The larger areas must come to an understanding that unlike a municipality, our rural tax base is very limited. At the CVRD board meeting in February, it was agreed that a workshop would be held on March 1 to discuss the matter of regional recreation. Consultants from the company who authored the original PERC report on regional recreation have been hired to review the report and answer the board’s questions. If I recall correctly, this report was written in the late ‘70s or early ‘80s. It will be interesting to see if it is in any way relevant to the current situation. I have been assured that this meeting will be open to the public, and that there will be an opportunity to ask questions if time allows. The workshop will start at 10 a.m. at the Regional District Boardroom in Duncan
take5.ca
(175 Ingram Street). I encourage all of you to attend if possible. However, you can also email your comments and questions to the CVRD (www.cvrd. bc.ca). I look forward to seeing you there. 2016 ISLANDS AGRICULTURAL SHOW The 2016 annual Islands Agricultural Show was held at the Cowichan Exhibition Centre on February 12 and 13. This show could not be possible without the help of the numerous volunteers from both the agricultural community and the greater community. The planning and work that happens behind the scenes are critical to the success of the show. Thank you very much to those who gave up numerous hours to assist in this very worthwhile endeavor. Kudos to the show organizers as well. The show was opened by Judith Gichon, the lieutenant-governor of the province. Her opening speech affirmed the important role the agricultural sector plays across B.C., and the value that the provincial government puts on sustainable agriculture. Food safety and security is of high importance throughout B.C. Former minister of agriculture, MLA Don McRae, also spoke on behalf of the province about the importance of sustainable agriculture. CVRD Chair Jon Lefebure and others spoke as well. The 2017 Islands Agricultural Show will be held in Port Alberni. Director Penny Cote from the Alberni–Clayquot Regional District invites everyone to attend the 2017 show.
CVRD Area G (Saltair) THEFTS IN SALTAIR Like “Sleepy Hollow,” for many years Saltair’s residents enjoyed the luxury of not having to lock everything up. Those days are gone. According to the RCMP, recent thefts in Saltair and surrounding area (particularly January and February) are twice the normal rate at 35 per month, including some of the losses up to $5000. It is apparent that thieves have discovered us, but we are going to make it tough for them. Thursday, February 18, the Saltair Community Centre hosted a com-
25
26
take5.ca
munity meeting for S.Sgt. Ken Brassard, Ladysmith detachment commander of the RCMP, to discuss this matter. S.Sgt. Brassard gave a presentation to outline the problem and advise us on how to make our community safer. More than 200 residents were in attendance. Here are some tips to make our community and others safer: • Know your neighbours’ phone numbers • If you have two vehicle key fobs, keep one near your bed, so you can set off the alarm to scare off thieves. • Form a “Neighbourhood Watch Group.” Contact the Ladysmith RCMP to help with setting one up. • Instal security cameras, • Call 911 if you witness a crime in progression; or if you have suspicions and you are in the Saltair, Ladysmith and surrounding area, call 250-245-2215 or cell 250-245-6060 to connect with the Ladysmith RCMP. • The most important item, and it can’t be stress enough, is to lock up everything and secure your property. • Report all missing property, no matter how insignificant you think the loss is. Such reporting helps develop patterns that often lead to apprehension. SALTAIR EXTRAVAGANZA 2016 On February 6, the community officially changed the name from Mt. Brenton School to the Saltair Community Centre. Gloria Hill, an original student of and who named Mt. Brenton School in 1950, cut the ribbon and cake. Ron Madden performed the duties of Master of Ceremonies. Over 200 people attended the event. Local singer and songwriter Terry Boyle performed his song “Sunny Saltair,” and you can find the lyrics published on our website (www.sunnysaltair.ca). Terry plans to record the song along with a video. Special thanks to the secondary school students: Madison Hendricks, Emma Brunt, Noah Hendericks, Em-
MARCH 2016
Local singer and songwriter Terry Boyle performed his song “Sunny Saltair.” Photo submitted
ily Wilson, Benjamin Blackley and Logan Godau for their help setting up and programming. Ken and Diana MacTavish did a terrific job at decorating the centre with an “I Love Saltair” Valentine’s Day theme. Also thanks to Sean Jonas who was in charge of the food and the publicity; Dave Key for purchasing and operations; and John Silins and Bill Cleary for set up and take down. Ed Nicholson worked hard to develop the Saltair Historical Society, with family storyboards posted around the entire building, hallways and gym. Thanks to Gary and Sandra Hendricks who did a tremendous amount of work with the storyboards and the set up. Also at the event, Crista Stegamen of the Quilting Society displayed the society’s efforts to promote a quilting group in Saltair. SALTAIR COMMUNITY SOCIETY Recently, a needs assessment and interest survey was circulated in the community to assist the SCS on determining which activities and events to offer at the Saltair Community Centre. There are literally dozens of activities that could be done at the centre if the organization is put in place. Results were analyzed by John Silins. Permanent operations of the centre will begin once a permanent board of directors is established. Hopefully, the first AGM for the society will take place in March to elect the permanent board. Up until now the SCS has been operating with an interim board. Membership for the SCS is $5.00. Join now to have a vote at the AGM. Several residents signed up already, but more are needed to have healthy input and a strong direction for the organization. Just think, you can be a founding member. Watch the video on Saltair Community Centre opening and others at youtube.com/take5newstv
TAKE 5
take5.ca
Pacific Chorus Frog In Coast Salish culture, the singing of the tree frog announces the beginning of a new year. Though small in size (the biggest would fit onto a loonie), they have a voice that is loud and fills warm spring evenings, and occasionally days, anywhere near ponds and lakes. The male Pacific chorus tree frog comes out of hibernation very early in the year and heads to nearby wetlands in search of a good location to wait and announce his presence. The “singing” we hear is a chorus of many male frogs. They start off with one male calling, advertising his territory and interest in mating. Then another calls in the space between the first one’s call, but with a different sound so that females can distinguish between them. The pattern continues with the calls of new males entering into the “song,” and the chorus swells until there are no gaps left to fill, though others call anyway. Somehow females are able to distinguish between all of these different calls. When she has made her choice, the male grabs onto the female (amplexus) and stays with her until she finds a suitable spot to lay her clusters of eggs, which the male then fertilizes. For some, this concludes their parental roles and they move on. Others may stay at the breeding territory and defend it with an “encounter call,” or by physically wrestling or butting other males. Another call heard over much of the year (except when they are in hibernation during the coldest part of winter) is a single one note call. (Some years ago an individual frog had taken up residence in the gutter downspout at home. Whenever it called, the sound echoed as it came out at the roofline, creating an extra loud effect.) During the summer, there is almost always one or two residing in rain barrels at the bottom of the downspouts at
Pacific Chorus Frog Photo: Jay Rastogi
my home. They like the humidity. During periods of wet weather, they can be found moving around in low vegetation. But because of the pads on their feet, they are also capable of climbing higher onto plants, looking for insects to feed upon. During hot and dry periods, they become nocturnal, and seek cool and moist areas. Colour variation between frogs (green to brown) has been attributed to tem-
27
perature and humidity. Those in cool and moist areas stay green, while those in warmer and drier habitats change to brown. This may be a prey-avoidance defense. Those individuals that are in moist environments are likely to be surrounded by green foliage, whereas those who are in more terrestrial areas are better camouflaged if they are brown. The name “tree frog” for this species is falling out of fashion since they are not “true” tree frogs. A number of years ago the genus name was changed from Hyla (tree frogs) to Pseudacris (chorus frogs). This name change acknowledges our new understanding of the ancestry of this species, and its relationship with other frog species. However, I imagine it makes very little difference to the frog what we call it. This frog, by any other name, still fills warm spring nights with song and is an elegant emblem for this time of year. Jay Rastogi is a naturalist, horticulturist and educator living in Yellow Point. Reach him at ecoforestry@gmail.com
28
take5.ca
MARCH 2016
TAKE 5
take5.ca
29
30
The Disillusioned Napkin AT THOMAS KELLER’S PER SE, SLIPS AND STUMBLES, proclaimed the unusually awkward New York Times’ headline. The esteemed restaurant took a torpedo in the stoke hold, as food critic Pete Wells demoted it from four stars to two. It’s yams were found dispiriting; the oysters less than canonic. (Yes, food critics talk that way.) The overall experience was “disappointingly flat-footed” causing the critic’s lady friend “to hurl her napkin to the floor in a state of disillusionment.” Which just goes to show, you can dress some people up, but you can’t take them out. Doesn’t she know you’ve got to throw something way more substantial, say a crusty roll, to get a busboy’s attention? And if it’s a waiter you want, often a steak knife is required. Like a Pearl Harbour battleship, Per Se was an easy target. The nine-course dinner cost $325, and that’s before ticking the foie gras and truffle option boxes. To do it right, expect to spend $3000 for a party of four. For that coin, you can expect attention to the smallest detail, which is why Keller once hired a ballet dancer to teach the staff how to move more gracefully around a table. Whether it helped dodge hurled napkins or not was undisclosed, but it’s one way to keep the staff on their toes. But have no illusions, restaurant reviewing, as practiced by the Times, is a blood sport. My sympathies are with Keller, not that I’m objective. I did own a fine-dining establishment for 27 years. Which is a long time to go without a real job. One wonders if Keller got any warning. A note under the door advising that this might be a good time to move to the Belgian Congo? Or perhaps jump off the bridge, right down the funnel of a passing garbage scow? Time to write your wife a note: Yes dear, you were right. I should have stuck with yogurt and dill.
take5.ca
Apparently blue cheese doesn’t go with calamari. It says so right here, just after the paragraph about the sauces being so runny, and the carrots come equipped with life jackets. Imagine not being warned. Keller wakes up in the morning, puts his slippers on, feeds the cat, starts the coffee, grabs the newspaper off his porch while he can still afford one, sinks with coffee in hand into his easy chair, and turns to the restaurant section to see which of his peers got caught pissing in the soup overnight when … “Wait a minute that’s my restaurant they’re trashing! Aha!!!!” (Frantic sounds of horror stricken cat applying CPR on gasping restaurateur.) This would never have happened in the old days. Back then, we had the Mafia as a countervailing force to ensure the critics were respectful and played nice. The Don: You hear whata thata guy in the Times said abouta Momma Mia’s? Guido: Yes, Boss. He said the tapenade could have been fecal matter, possibly caramelized rat turds, and the red sauce came outta a squeeze bottle with Heinz on it. The Don: (Puzzled look) What’sa wrong with thata? Momma’s been doin’ it thata waya for years? Guido: Beats me, Boss. The Don: He complaina abouta the sea bass? Guido: Just that it smelled like the mud flats, and a mouse poked its head out of the cabbage, and advised him not to eat it. The Don: This critic, do we knowa his shoe size? Order the concrete. Guido: Ah, Boss, do I have to? Ya can’t put anything in the river these days without an environmental watchdog pissing on your trousers. Don: You’re righta. Be responsible. Let’sa take him bobbing for apples insteada, the Italian way. Turn the deepa fryer on, warm the apples up, then senda the car over to pick him up. Paradoxically, a negative view can be positive. It provides a detailed list of what needs fixing. On the other hand, it also provides a reason for customers to hurl their disillusioned napkins someplace else. By the time everything is fixed, you’re bankrupt. That’s why I say, be proactive. Rather than wait for the Pete Wells of the world to show up and play table tennis with your testicles, take a preemptive strike and hire your own critic. Call him a res-
MARCH 2016
taurant appraiser. He does the same job as Pete Wells, but reports to you, rather than the NY Times. Of course, you could always be your own critic, but being objective isn’t easy. Chefs don’t want to hear that their creations suck. This is especially true if the place is busy. They can barely keep their head above water, and you want a new sauce for the duck? Good luck. Criticism from an independent third person is much harder to ignore. That’s why Slightly Corked is proud to announce our new service: HAVE FORK, WILL TRAVEL. At HFWT, our forks are packed and ready to go, along with a little Tums, just in case. We will be glad to review your restaurant, identify problem areas, and give you time to address these issues before the Times sends their man over to throw napkins. Our motto: Leave no dispirited yam unturned. Does Have Fork, Will Travel produce the hard-hitting results a business needs these days? You bet your tip tray we do. Here’s a letter from a satisfied customer, telling it like it is: To Whom It May Concern: Before asking for help, our restaurant was on the verge of bankruptcy. Due to a comedy of errors and a hefty serving of bad attitude, the food got so bad that the rats wouldn’t eat it. Well thanks to the insightful people at Have Fork, Will Travel, I’m pleased to report, the rats now enjoy the food, or at least are showing up for service. A delicious French red to go with the new improved food, Paul Mas Grenache Noir, $11.29. Delbert Horrocks is a co-proprietor at Mahle House Restaurant. Follow him at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com
TAKE 5
take5.ca
31
32
“How I wish that somewhere there existed an Island for those who are wise and of goodwill. In such a place even I would be an ardent patriot.” — Albert Einstein
Our Heritage Remembered, and Re-Born! Hey, maybe you’ve heard about it? During Heritage Week in February, our local society announced historically significant initiatives that will change the world as we know it! Well that may be a little over enthusiastic in the re-telling, but you never know if you don’t try, as dear old mom used to say when she would pick me up off the ice, insisting that I really could learn to skate on weak, wobbly ankles. Back to the big picture, though. Not to worry if you didn’t catch us on the National news. History and heritage never
take5.ca
go stale, a bit crusty sometimes perhaps. But a colourful character caught in the midst of a conundrum in the backwoods of Cassidy, or the marshy uplands of Yellow Point, really helps you get to know what once went on hereabouts. And that’s just what the Heritage and Beautification project hopes to bring alive through a series of interviews with the relatives and friends of those old crusty and colourful characters from the “Heritage Lands” of Cedar, Yellow Point, North Oyster, Cassidy and South Wellington. We have a book to write, with Take 5 kindly accepting our invitation to assist, and now all we need are your stories. Sure, we’ll be interviewing those who claim the DNA of ancestors and digging up the goods on the salts of the earth — those who steadfastly worked day in and day out to make an honourable living, feed their families and build our communities. But a few embellishments about the mythical characters who once lived amongst us (keeping within a relatively honest version of the truth of course) often gets to the heart of a good story. And the heart of our communities is what we’ll be looking from our interviews, visits to homesteads, and conversations with folks around the “Heritage Lands” this spring and summer. So if you know someone who exemplifies the trials and tribulations and the quirky past, and illuminates the wondrous landscape of our beautiful countryside and coastal shores, then we’d like to hear from ya! The hopes and
MARCH 2016
dreams, and everything in between, are what we’re looking to connect with in this, the 150th anniversary of Canada’s beginnings. How did we get here, and who wandered these fine lands in times of yore? Please send pictures, too, and memorabilia and interesting artifacts that have been stored away in the cob-webbed lofts and dusty barns of the region. We want to see them and hear more about them! But wait! As part of the celebration, we’re also planning a Heritage Sports Day, commemorating old-time fun: wheelbarrow races, soccer matches and maybe a ploughing challenge too! Or what about some lumberjack chain sawing and a Heritage recipe bake-off with five-cent lemonade, and folks meandering about in the clothes of the day? Maybe Mr. Canoehead will show up and lead us all down to the river for a swim on a hot summer day? We also hope to get input from groups and organizations throughout our “Heritage Lands” to see what we can do to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday and discover how it was celebrated way back when — and you’re invited to help, too. Just get in touch, talk with your neighbours and friends, and tell us what we can do to have some good, clean 150-year-old fun! That’s not all! We’ll also be building benches, planting Victory gardens (local and heritage flowers!), putting in some horse-hitching posts, and setting up twenty or so places to sit and chat and
TAKE 5
take5.ca
enjoy the beauty and the social hob-knobbing of our fine rural community of Cedar and area. We have a couple-dozen planters donated by the City of Nanaimo, and we’re looking for suggestions on where to put ‘em. We’re also looking for folks who can help us build benches and gardens, who want to give a little something back to their communities, and who want to remember and honour all those who came before us — First Nations and settlers alike. How else can we leave our mark as Canada turns 150 years old? We think there’s a lot of good people in these “Heritage Lands,” folks from way back when and new-comers who’ve just arrived. And we’d like to work together with one and all over the next year to leave a legacy that we’ll all remember and be proud of.
33
Join in, get in touch, let us know your thoughts, and let’s continue to build the dreams our ancestors worked for. To get in touch, read our newsletter or get involved, please feel free to contact by e-mail or phone, or visit our website for information and updates. Vancouver Island & Coast Conservation Society, Box 333, Cedar, B.C., V9X 1W1 250-722-3444, viccs@shaw.ca) www. viccs.vcn.bc.ca Laurie Gourlay and Jackie Moad are a wonder, immersed in a land of beauty and rich in heritage, awash with mystery and glorious in potential and so they put noses to the grindstone, seeking local solutions to global challenges!
34
take5.ca
MARCH 2016
FOR RENT
HOME & YARD
OFFICE SPACES Downtown Ladysmith, modern, reasonable rent or lease. Call 250-245-3395.
NEW LIFE YARDWORK and PAINTING Lawn mowing, weeding, power washing, rubbish removal, gutter cleaning. Prompt, courteous, reliable service for your home or business. Contact Terry at newlifeyardwork@gmail.com or call 250668-8383.
BUSINESS SPECIAL EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHY. Don’t trust just anyone! We have years of experience from weddings, family portraits to glamour and corporate clients. Free photo book included of your images. Email for quote and portfolio: marinasacht@yahoo.ca or call 250-245-9165. KEN’S MOBILE MARINE SERVICE. Over 25 years licensed Marine Mechanic, repairing and 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. BEADS BEADS BEADS Etc! 9752 Willow St., Chemainus. Best prices on the Island. Follow us on facebook/etcinchemainus. Call 250-324-2227. CONCRETE RESULTS. Contracting, full-service forming and finishing, walls, walks, patios, drives. 35 years experience. Call Gord 250-753-4024. HANDYMAN AVAILABLE for odd jobs, painting, staining and power washing. Call Blair 250-2455621. MID-ISLAND HOME SUPPORT since 2009. Personal assistance and house cleaning available. Bondable, licensed, certified and insured for your safety and ours. For the best rates around, please call 250-924-2273 (CARE). YOU MADE THAT? YOU COULD SELL IT! Online/Offline Mentor & Coach for your new arts and craft business venture. We start from ground zero. Proven results. Contact Mei@myogastudio. ca or 250-797-1218. FOR ALL YOUR SEWING NEEDS Bedding,
window treatments, couch and chair covers, cushions, pillows, special accessories and decor, dressmaking and alterations — whatever comes to your mind. Contact Elke info@egrstudios.com or 250-618-1172. EDUCATION SENSE OF PLACE YOUTH PROJECT LTD. SPRING BREAK full day camps and before and after school space available. School-aged children. North Oyster Community Centre (Lic#KRIS-9MPPYV). 7:00am to 6pm. Mon. to Fri. Nature programming, arts/crafts, hiking, building, music, games etc. Full/part-time and drop-in spots. Subsidy welcome. patti@senseofplaceyp. com, www.senseofplaceyp.com, or call 250-6671222 or 250-618-3396. HEALTH & BEAUTY ISAGENIX DISTRIBUTOR. Get lean and healthy fast! Less than $5/meal. Our protein shakes are amazing! No gluten, wheat, barley or trans fat. www.taketimetoday.com. Call 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. Lilja Hardy FMBAC in practice since 1994. www.bowtech.com. For information and appointments, call 250-245-7738. TAI CHI For mental and physical health. Beginner class starts February, Mondays, on-going class Wednesdays. Both classes 10am to noon, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 McMillan Rd. $20/mo. www.nanaimotaichi.org. Call Sara 250-245-1466. YELLOWPOINT BODY WORKS OFFERS a Full Body Relaxation Massage for 30% OFF regular price of $65. Here is to your good health! For appointment and treatment/rates brochure, email rosalind.mckenzie@gmail.com or call 250-6188218.
ISLAND KING RENOS LTD. Kitchen-BathTile-Backslash-Countertops-Flooring-DrywallPaint-Siding-Fences-Decks INTERIOR and EXTERIOR. Quote by JOB not by the HOUR. www.islandkingrenos.com. Call 250-924-4924. QUALITY RENOVATIONS Big or small. 25 yrs exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate, call Lars 250-616-1800. DARRELL ESSAR RENOVATIONS Over 30 years experience, certified journeyman carpenter. No job is too small, from fences, decks, tile work, hardwood flooring, painting, drywall etc. For free estimate, call Darrell 250-714-3823. BI-MONTHLY CLEANING for houses. Experienced, reliable and attention to detail. $20 per hour. References available. Ladysmith and Chemainus. Call Jamie and Ingrid 250-246-4938. AJ’S HOME CLEANING top to bottom service. General, event, windows, we’ll even make your bed! Great for families, seniors, single parents, office cleaning, flexible service to fit your schedule. Email aliciajohnson@telus.net or call Alicia 1-250709-1364. SASSA’S HOME AND GARDEN CARE specializing in fall & spring cleaning inside & outside of your home or business. We use the tools & products that make the difference. Call 250-9244735 or 1-250-218-4735. WOOD SHEDS, interior re/finishing, carpentry, painting, custom shelving/storage, railings, decks, benches. Enhance your enjoyment of the home and yard you love. Namaste Home Improvements. Call 250-245-2751 (see display ad). 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
take5.ca
THE HAPPY GARDENER. Weeding, digging, raking, cutting back, etc. Also do window washing and odd jobs. Cheerful and conscientious. Call David 250-618-9217.
Available 24/7. Check out our new home at 2740 Heather Way, Nanaimo. Take a virtual tour www. kittykorners.com. Call 250-740-KATS (5287).
ISLAND GARDEN SCAPES.CA for all your outdoor landscape & garden needs. Reasonable rates, free estimates: garden design & re-creation, clean up, planting, pruning, maintenance, lawns & painting. Email islandgardenscapes@gmail.com or call/text 250-802-0461.
SENIORS
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 your home and much more. As my love is yours! Call 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. Pre-booking visits welcome. www.toocrazybirdyhotel.com. Call Diana and Kip Slater 250-722-2201. KITTY KORNERS CAT HOTEL. Purrsonalized quality kitty care. Daily health checks, experienced with special needs kitties. Reasonable rates.
LYNN’S SENIORS CARE HOME. High quality personalized care. Warm caring environment. Great food and snacks. Family events. Couples and pets welcomed. Ocean views, gardens. North of Ladysmith. www.lynnsseniorcare.com. Call 250-245-3391. LEAVE A LEGACY - WRITE YOUR MEMOIRS TAKE 5 Publications can help. Call 250-245-7015
37