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AUGUST 2015
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Letters Letter to our local heroes Dear Firefighters of Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, North Oyster, Cedar and Cranberry: Words alone cannot convey the amount of gratitude we have for our local firefighters, emergency response teams, police and provincial water bomber personnel for their incredibly professional response to the Cedar Road wildfire. We are forever beholden to you all who have prevented death and destruction. Thank you all for your bravery and commitment to protecting this community. Now, let’s get that North Oyster firehall built for our firemen! and I encourage everyone in this community to do something nice for your local firemen and emergency people to let them know how much you appreciate them. - Pauline Hunt, Yellow Point resident 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.
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Dogwood Drive challange A group of residents of Dogwood Drive in Ladysmith say that they are facing growing traffic woes and would like to see the speed limit dropped from 50km/ hr to 30 km/hr. Terry Doherty says there have been near misses with people using the crosswalk as speed often exceeds the limit on the winding road. Dropping the limit would make the highway route more attractive to drivers using the Dogwood Drive route, says Doherty, diverting some of the traffic from the neighbourhood. The group, who is on Facebook as The Dogwood Challenge, met at The Holland Creek Ball Park on July 12 and will be making a presentation at Ladysmith Council August 20 meeting. Other suggestions to slow down and decrease traffic included a roundabout for the intersection at Roberts Street, and the First Avenue and Dogwood Drive intersection, and a flashing crosswalk, and more radar traps along the stretch that Doherty says is a popular road for young drivers to race. “The traffic has increased, people are speeding and we are concerned of the danger to our children now. There are many more children that have moved into the neighbourhood in the past year.”
Help Needed for baby Brenton Baby Brenton Delcourt was born to Orval Delcourt and Danielle Lucas May 27, 2015. He was born with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) and while recently discharged has spent most of his life in a hospital. He has undergone
Slow down, say concerned residents of Dogwood Drive. (l-r) Andrew and Heidi Hoffman, Griffin Russell, Gord Long, Greg Kenmuir, Rossano Pasquotti, Terry Doherty, Anne Russell. Deb Eaton. Photo: Joanne Bergeron, Dogwood Drive resident.
a life threatening operation with more likely in the future. This Labour Day weekend you can help, by signing up for The Ladysmith Kinsmen Charity Slow Pitch Tournament Sept. 5 & 6 at Aggie Field. Mixed teams will be participating with proceeds going to help the Delcourt Family pay for medical expenses for their Brenton. There is also a prize for the team that collects the most food for the food bank. If you need more information give Jim Delcourt a call at 250245-3137. You can also make a donation into Baby Brenton account at the Ladysmith & District Credit Union. Contact Wanda Knudsen at 250-245-4642 or Steve Dinsmore at 250-802-9857.
Fundraiser for fire victims On July 17 a fire broke out and destroyed a family home on Methuen Street in Ladysmith. The family with three young children lost everything. Now the community wants to help. Several fundraisers have been set up to help Lisa Beauchemin, her husband and three daughters who are currently homeless and living with a friend. Renee Hutchinson has created opened a GoFundMe account that has been set up under the name ‘Fundraiser For House Fire In Ladysmith’ and has already raised over $3,000 for the family
thanks to the generosity of Ladysmith citizens and friends. A trust account has been opened at Island Savings and a contribution to the family can be made at any Island Savings location. The number for this account is 2436137.
Boat fire A boat caught fire and sank in Ladysmith Harbour in the early morning of July 18. The 40’ houseboat named The Ark was being used as a workshop and had no one aboard at the time. The Coast Guard placed a boom around the area to contain debris. The boat was anchored next to the Viki-Lyne II, a derelict vessel that was the focus of a recent protest. The Ladysmith RCMP say the case is under investigation.
New Faces at LRCA The Ladysmith Resources Centre Association welcomes Shannon Wilson as the centre’s new Executive Director. Shannon comes from 19 years as Community School Coordinator at John Barsby Community School in Nanaimo. (SD68). The LRCA staff are eager to start working with Shannon, and are looking forward to exciting new directions for the Resources Centre, announced Cindy Warren, Program Manager.
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Darcey Bouvier has accepted the position of Manager for the Ladysmith police-based Victim Services program, replacing Carla Sampson at the Ladysmith detachment. Darcey is currently employed by the Cowichan Valley Regional RCMP Victim Services Unit at the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP Detachment.
Awards and Citations from Rotary Installation. Congratulations! Gerry Beltgens received the District Award for Service for Polio Plus and Rotarian of the Year, Bonnie Ritchie received the President’s Achievement Award for her work coordinating the BEAR ( Be Eager About Reading) Program for Literacy, Michael Furlot received the Rotary International Award for Service and Cheryl Leukefeld received the President’s Plaque and Honourable Mention for 2nd Place for New Members in District 5020. Not in picture, Sandra Milne received the Jim Runciman Award for Service in the Club.
Let’s play! The Kinsmen Playground at Transfer Beach is on track for official opening during Ladysmith Days. “A project like this takes a lot of manpower,” says Duck Paterson, Chair of the Kinsmen project. “Not only the work to set up the playground, but to do the $175,000 of fundraising to make the project possible.”
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Dealing with Drought A Level 4 drought rating has been issued by the Province for Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. The “extremely dry” provincial classification calls for maximum reduction in water use, through voluntary conservation, restrictions and regulatory measures. The communities have responded. The Town of Ladysmith, Diamond Improvement District, and Stz’uminus First Nation lands and the rest of the Cowichan Valley Regional District are all under Stage 3 water restrictions. “I know my lawn will just lie dormant, not die, and that it will turn green again when it rains,” said Ladysmith Mayor Aaron Stone. “Although we have good water supply, it is important that we use this opportunity to change the way we look at water use and do all that we can to protect our most valuable resource.” The Regional District of Nanaimo and the City of Parksville moved to a Comprehensive Watering Ban (Level 4 Water Conservation)The Comprehensive Watering Ban applies to all RDN Water Service areas. Officials at the RDN are concerned that a further reduction to emergency water storage levels could impact the ability to fight a large fire. Using water to combat a large fire could also reduce the ability of the RDN to meet water requirements for residents and businesses. Environment Canada has predicted high temperatures and low precipitation well into fall for local communities.
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The Regional District of Nanaimo is closing the Trans Canada Trail from the Timberlands Road trailhead by the Haslam Creek Suspension Bridge to the Harewood Mines Road trailhead at the Region’s boundary with the City of Nanaimo. The public is reminded that there is no smoking permitted at this time in any RDN park or trail. Please, play safe and help protect our forests. “I have never seen it this dry this soon in the 72 years I’ve been living here,” said RDN Chair Joe Stanhope. “We need to reduce water consumption as much as possible right now to meet basic needs in our communities. “ To report a wildfire call 1-800-6635555 or *5555 on most cellular networks Water-wise tips include: • Install a low flow toilet (and apply for a $75 rebate from the Town) • Turn off the tap when brushing teeth, washing hands, cleaning vegetables, washing dishes, shaving… • While running the tap to get hot water, save the cold water for another use • Keep a pitcher of drinking water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap •Take short showers instead of baths, and switch to low-flow or aerated shower heads and taps. Turn off the shower to lather, then turn it back on to rinse. Shortening a shower by a minute or two can save about 150 gallons a month • Run full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher. An Energy Star dishwasher uses less water than washing dishes by hand.
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Concern for Our Harbour Protest BY MARINA SACHT Ladysmith and area residents showed their concern by braving the heat on Sunday, July 9, 2015, at the “Concern For Our Harbour Day” Rally organized to protest the derelict vessels abandoned in Ladysmith and in particular the Viki Lyne II who is in danger of sinking with 13,000 litres of oil and solvents aboard. Protesters, some with signs and placards, were assembled at Slack Point beach. A large flotilla of vessels including kayakers, Ladysmith’s dragon boat, and dinghies, a hovercraft and a cabin cruiser with a large sign reading “Save our Harbour” blew airhorns in support of cleaning up the oil and solvents before they spills onto the area’s beautiful beaches. Black balloons and trailing black crepe streamers symbolized the fear many residents feel when faced with the prospect of a serious oil slick, especially one that can be prevented.
Speakers included Ladysmith Mayor Aaron Stone, NDP Federal Candidate Sheila Malcolmson, NDP MLA Doug Routley, Green candidate Paul Manly, North Oyster/Diamond Director Area H Mary Marcotte, Cowichan Bay CVRD Director Lori Iannidinardo, environmentalist and writer Guy Dauncey along with Michelle Young from the Georgia Strait Alliance. “I am overwhelmed by the amount of people and their enthusiasm,” said orga-
nizer Rob Pinkerton, who wrote about the issue in the July issue of TAKE 5. The protest may have ended but plans are to continue pressuring the federal government until the pollutants are removed from the derelict vessel. Protesters signed letters directed to Minister of Transport Lisa Raitt asking
immediate action to remove the threat of the widespread damage to the environment that 13,0000 litres of spilled oil and solvents would cause. If you wish to sign a letter, drop by the TAKE 5 office at 622 First Avenue, Ladysmith by August 10 or you can send a letter individually to Hon. Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, Tower C - 330 Sparks Street, Ottawa, On. K1A 0N5. Hundreds of protesters turned out for the Concern for Our Harbour rally. Photos:Cindy Damphousse, Rob Johnson, Marina Sacht.
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Some of the speakers at Concern for Our Harbour Rally. (l-r) NDP MLA Doug Routley, Cowichan Bay Director CVRD Director Lori Iannidinardo, Ladysmith Mayor Aaron Stone, North Oyster/Diamond Director Area H Mary Marcotte, organizer Rob Pinkerton, environmentalist and writer Guy Dauncey, NDP Federal Candidate Sheila Malcolmson. Not present are Green candidate Paul Manly and Michelle Young from the Georgia Strait Alliance. Rod Smith, far right with Ladysmith Maritime Soceity.
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COMPILED BY CINDY DAMPHOUSSE
250-246-9820.
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2, Ladysmith Days, parade, fireworks and more, various locations downtown and Transfer Beach. 250-245-2112.
1, Ladysmith Days, parade, fireworks and more, various locations downtown, Transfer Beach. 250-245-2112 1, 9am – 11am, Therapeutic Gardening for Everyone, Cowichan Lake Community Garden, 311 South Shore Rd, Lake Cowichan. 250-7488506 or erin@cowichangreencommunity.org 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, 12-4pm, GOOD BONES, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., 250245-1252 www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 1, 7pm, GOOD BONES Opening Night with guest speaker John Whitelaw, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., 250245-1252. 1, 7pm, Kendall Patrick and the Headless Bettys perform at In the Beantime Café, 18 High Street. 1, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion, a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820.
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, 12-4pm, GOOD BONES, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., 250245-1252 www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 2-8, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre,
2, 10am, Carol’s Crafters Market, North Oyster Community Centre, 13467 Cedar Rd. 3, 4:45pm, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre. Everyone is welcome 4, 7pm, Music in the Park – Waterwheel Park Chemainus- Compassion Gorilla 4-7, 9am - 3pm, Adventure Zone Day Camp, Creative Cat Transfer Beach Park. 250-245-6424 5, 10-12, Chemainus Sketch Group - The Garden Path. 13561 Barney Rd, Yellowpoint. Everyone is welcome. 5-8, 10am, Printmakers Only Group 24th Annual Show & Sale, Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan 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 7-8, Accordion Days, Waterwheel Park, Chemainus cvcas.com 7-8, 7pm, Stones in His Pockets presented by Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250924-0658
August 9-15 9-15, 10am, Printmakers Only Group 24th Annual Show & Sale, Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan. 9-15, 10:30am and 2pm, Ladysmith Harbour Tours daily. 250-245-0109 or visit www.lmsmarina.ca 9-15, 11am, James and the Giant Peach Kidzplay, Chemainus Theatre, 250-246-9820.
9-15, 12-4pm, GOOD BONES, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., 250245-1252 www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 9-15, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820. 9, 10am, Carol’s Crafters Market, North Oyster Community Centre, 13467 Cedar Rd. 9, 1pm, Free Dyslexia Seminar, Preset Adjusting Perceptions. 250-245-8412 9, 3pm, Waterwheel Park Chemainus - John Reischman and the Jaybirds www. cvcas.com 9, 7pm, Stones in His Pockets presented by Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250924-0658 9, 6pm, Concerts in the Park with Gerry Barnum, Transfer Beach. 10-14, 9am - 3pm, Adventure Zone Day Camp Nature Nuts week, Transfer Beach Park. 250-2456424 10, 4:45pm, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre. Everyone is welcome. 11, 7pm, Music in the Park - Waterwheel Park Chemainus - Luv Train 12, 10-12 -, Chemainus Sketch Group - St. Anne’s Catholic Church -1775 Tzouhalem Rd., Duncan. Bring your lunch. Everyone is welcome. 12, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night alternating Wednesdays. Check with Cottonwood Golf Course, 250-245-5157. 13, 2pm, 9 & Dine Enjoy 9 holes of golf and a delicious 3 course meal every Thursday Cottonwood Golf Course. 250-245-5157 14-15, 7pm, Stones in His Pockets presented by Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250924-0658 14, 7pm, The Seeing Double Tour featuring Cheryl Cohen and Jenica Rayne, In the Beantime Café, 18 High St. 250-245-2305
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15, 9am, Show & Shine Car Show - downtown Ladysmith on First Avenue. 15, 1st Annual KidZArtBeat children’s art festival, Waterwheel Park, Chemainus features local artists and a variety of interactive arts activities. Free with the exception of two registered workshops. 15, 9am -11am, Edible Garden Plant Identification Tour, Cowichan Lake Community Garden, 311 South Shore Rd, Lake Cowichan. 250-748-8506 or erin@cowichangreencommunity.org 15, 9am-3pm, BCSPCA Nanaimo & District Branch – Garage Sale – at the Shelter, 200 Labieux Road, Nanaimo.
August 16-22 16-22, 10am, Printmakers Only Group 24th Annual Show & Sale, Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan. 16-22, 10:30am and 2pm, Ladysmith Harbour Tours in August daily. 250-245-0109 or visit www. lmsmarina.ca
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20, 2pm, 9 & Dine Enjoy 9 holes of golf and a delicious 3 course meal every Thursday Cottonwood Golf Course. 250-245-5157 22, Jazz Festival, Waterwheel Park Chemainus cvcas.com 22, 6:30pm, Light Up the Night - night market, street entertainment, street food, light installation. New to Ladysmith under the big tents on First Ave. www.artsontheavenue.ca/ 250-245-1252 22, noon to closing, Nanaimo Gladiola and Dahlia Society Annual Show, Country Club Mall, Nanaimo. Jim Gilchrist, 250-722-2106
27, 2pm, 9 & Dine. Enjoy 9 holes of golf and a delicious 3 course meal every Thursday Cottonwood Golf Course. 250-245-5157
23-29, 10:30am and 2pm, Ladysmith Harbour Tours in August daily. 250-245-0109 or visit www. lmsmarina.ca
23-29, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820.
16, 10am, Carol’s Crafters Market, North Oyster Community Centre, 13467 Cedar Rd.
23-29, 7:30pm, Confessions of a Paperboy – Studio Stage, 9574 Bare Pt. Rd., 250-246-9820
16, 10am, Nanaimo Museum hosts Wellington Cemetery Tours, $10 per person and advance registration is required. 250-753-1821 or visit www.nanaimomuseum.ca
23, 17th Annual Arts on the Avenue, First Ave. Juried art of all kinds, music, kids art, food and community. artsontheavenue.ca 250- 245-0700
16, 2pm, Songbird:Flying Home Songs and opera with local coloratura soprano Barbara Cole. St. Michael and All Angels Anglican Church, 2858 Mill Street, Chemainus. Admission is by donation.
23, noon to closing, Nanaimo Gladiola and Dahlia Society Annual Show, Country Club Mall, Nanaimo. Jim Gilchrist, 250-722-2106 23, 10am, Carol’s Crafters Market, North Oyster Community Centre, 13467 Cedar Rd.
16, 7pm, Stones in His Pockets presented by Ladysmith Little Theatre. 4985 Christie Rd. 250924-0658
24-28, 9am - 3pm, Adventure Zone Day Camp Splish Splash Beach Bash week, Transfer Beach Park. 250-245-6424
19, 10-12, Chemainus Sketch Group - The Secret Garden – Chemainus. Bring your lunch. Everyone is welcome. 19-22, 7:30pm, Confessions of a Paperboy – Studio Stage, 9574 Bare Pt. Rd., 250-246-9820. 19, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night alternating Wednesdays. Check with Cottonwood Golf Course, 250-245-5157.
26, 2pm - Mid-Island Tai Chi Club - Set Practice in the Park- Tai Chi set practice at Maffeo Sutton Park hosted by Mid-Island Tai Chi club. We practice the (modified) traditional Yang Style 108-move set as developed by Moy Lin-Shin.
23-29, 10am, Printmakers Only Group 24th Annual Show & Sale, Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan.
16-22, 7:30pm, Twist and Shout: The British Invasion a musical revue, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820.
17, 7pm, Ladysmith Council Meeting, City Hall, 410 Esplanade. 250-245-6400
26, Chemainus Sketch Group - Maple Bay Marina, 6145 Genoa Bay Road. Bring your lunch.
August 23-29
16-22, 12-4pm, GOOD BONES, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., 250245-1252 www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com
17, 4:45pm, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop-in
25, 7:00pm, Ladysmith Camera Club - Flash Photography with commercial photographer Boomer Jerritt. Hardwick Hall, 228 High Street, Ladysmith, www.LadysmithCameraClub.com
26, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night alternating Wednesdays. Check with Cottonwood Golf Course, 250-245-5157.
23-29, 12-4pm, GOOD BONES, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., 250245-1252 www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 250- 245-0700
17-21, 9am - 3pm, Adventure Zone Day Camp Around the World in a Week, Transfer Beach Park. 250-245-6424
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28, Nanaimo Blues Society presents - Summer Time Blues w/ Marcia Ball, Maffeo Sutton Park. 29, Nanaimo Blues Society presents - Summer Time Blues w/Elvis Bishop, Maffeo Sutton Park.
August 30-31 30-31, 10:30am and 2pm, Ladysmith Harbour Tours in August daily. 250-245-0109 or visit www. lmsmarina.ca 30-31, 12-4pm, GOOD BONES, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., 250-2451252 www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 30, 10am, Carol’s Crafters Market, North Oyster Community Centre, 13467 Cedar Rd. 30, Nanaimo Blues Society presents - Summer Time Blues w/CJ Chenier, Maffeo Sutton Park. 31, 7:30pm, Steve Earle and The Dukes Cowichan Performing Arts Centre www.cowichanpac.ca (left to right) 15, Show & Shine 22-23, Arts on the Avenue 29-30, Nanaimo Blues Festival
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Remuneration for Town of Ladysmith staff Over the past few years, I have reported on the salaries of senior (nonunion) staff at Ladysmith City Hall. It appears that this is a topic of interest to many of our residents as they have asked for updates. The remuneration information that I quote is directly from of a staff generated report called the Statement of Financial Information. 2014. This report can be found on the Town’s web site. This report (SOFI) shows remuneration for members of Council and those making over $75,000 a year. This information on remuneration can be found on page 42 of the report. It shows that non exempt (non-union) staff wage rose by an average of 3.01% over last year, but the range within that group ranged from a low of 1.08% to a high of 7.52%. The Director of Corporate Services got a $5,094 raise and the Director of Parks Recreation and Culture saw an increase of $8,225. The highest remuneration was for the City Manager at $151,559 with an increase over last year of $2,776 (1.83%). Next highest was the Director of Infrastructure at $129,362 which included a $2,877 bump (2.27%).
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The combined remuneration for nine non-unionized staff totalled $1,067,676. This is before benefits are added. Last report from the Town said benefit package averaged just over 20%, so with benefits, I estimate the cost of these nine staff members to be $1,281,200. All of the rest of the unionized workers amounted to $3,611,373 and their contract was 1.5% for the first six months and then 2% until the contract expires. According to the 2014 Annual Financial Report, the amount of money raised from you and I for General Municipal Purpose Taxation was $7,022,129. The estimated cost of these nine non- unionized workers works out to just over 17.5% of this amount. The report said that Council members earned a total of $98,992 of which one third is tax exempt. The position of Mayor totalled $24,172 and the position of Councillor paid $12,470 each. Before the election, I posed the question to those running - if elected would you consider freezing senior staff wages, and appoint a committee of consultants, council and members of the general public to review wages in comparison to other municipalities and private business to determine if staff is getting a fair wage or if they are being over paid to like jobs in business and other communities. Most of the candidates failed to respond, while those that did said they would. What do you think, should there be a wage freeze and a review? I do and that’s as I see it. Write Rob Johnson at editor@take5. ca or PO Box 59, Ladysmith, V9G 1A1
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Arts on the Avenue and Light up the Night - two great festivals in Ladysmith Arts on the Avenue has done it again. Another year of amazing artists will line First Avenue in Ladysmith August 23 from 10 am to 4 pm. Over 55 artists will grace Ladysmith streets with everything from artisan food to take home, carving, First Nations art, paintings, jewellery, glass, photography and demonstrations. Enjoy the music, get to know your community organizations and visit the kids’ paint area where your little emerging artist can create a masterpiece to take home - all under the white tents. Local carver Jack Fisher is guest artist this year. Jack has been part of the event for 16 years displaying and selling his marvellous bird and wood carvings that are in homes all over the world. For 17 years, the Town of Ladysmith, Layman Financial Services, FYI Doctors, Ladysmith & District Credit Union, Yellow Point Lodge, Coast Realty Group have been major sponsors of this event. The organizers thank them and all their other sponsors for their continued support. This year Arts on the Avenue received for the first time ever a grant from EventHostBC. New this year on Saturday, August 22, it’s Light Up The Night from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm on First Avenue. Light Up The Night is a combo of La Nuit Blanche and a night market - Ladysmith style. You will be able to shop market vendors, hear music, watch demonstrations such as a giant printing press, eat street food and hang out downtown Ladysmith at night and see some creative light displays. This is a night you will want to stay up for and bring the family. For more information or to be in the Night Market call 250-245-1252 or go to www.artsontheave.ca
Mort Paul and Torry Clark play 15 different characters in the comedy bring these characters to life in Ladysmith Little Theatre’s Stones In His Pockets. Photo submitted.
Stones In His Pockets Ladysmith Little Theatre presents Stones In His Pockets, the hit play by Marie Jones about a small rural town in Ireland where townspeople have been hired as extras in a Hollywood film. The play centers around two of those people, Charlie Conlon and Jake Quinn. Charlie has aspirations to get his script made into a movie. Much of the comedy is derived from the efforts of the production crew to create the proper “Irish feel” and the cast of two who perform all 15 characters (men and women), often switching gender and voice with swift dexterity. Under the direction of Ellen Paul, Ladysmith Little Theatre stalwarts Mort Paul and Torry Clark bring these characters to life in hilarious split second timing. The show runs August 7 to August 16. For tickets: Ladysmith Little Theatre Box Office 250-924-0658, or online www. ladysmiththeatre.com
Summertime Blues in Nanaimo The Nanaimo Blues Society presents The Summertime Blues Fest August 28, 29 and 30 at Maffeo Sutton Park on the waterfront in downtown Nanaimo. Friday night headliner is Marcia Ball, the Texas born, Louisiana raised pianist/ vocalist presenting Texas Soul, New Orleans second line rhythms, boogie-woogie and Louisiana Swamp Blues.
Saturday night features Elvin Bishop. His music is a mash-up of Chicago Blues, rowdy R&B and good-time rock ‘n’ roll. He is best known for his huge hit, “Fooled Around and Fell In Love”. Also on Saturday night is Little Victor, over from England to grace the stage with some of the greasiest guitar licks outside of a chicken shack. Sunday night is the Zydeco powerhouse C.J. Chenier, son of Clifton Chenier, the undisputed King of Zydeco.
Elvin Bishop plays Summertime Blues
Zydeco features accordion and rub board and blends up-tempo blues, R&B and indigenous Louisiana Creole music. Also featured are four of Canada’s greatest blues stars: Jack Semple, Murray Porter, Harpdog Brown and Poppa Dawg. The rest of the festival features the best blues bands of western Canada and Vancouver Island.
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Advance tickets are available at the Port Theatre in Nanaimo and the day of the shows. For more information go to www.nanaimoblues.com.
Songbird: Flying Home, an afternoon of opera and song Local Barbara Cole Walton will be giving a concert of song and opera on August 16 at 2 pm at St. Michaels All Angels Church in Chemainus. Returning home after four years in the United Kingdom, Barbara brings with her a talented pianist, Jonathon Swinard from Devon, England, who works as a conductor at the Nuremberg Opera House. Admission by donation.
CVCAS offering for August The Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society (CVCAS) plans for August include the continuation of the Tuesday evening “Music in the Park” concert series with some favourite performers scheduled for the Waterwheel Park stage: Mexican Bus Ride, Luv Train, Bijou de Bayou and Compassion Gorilla. Admission is by donation.
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On August 7 and 8, the popular Chemainus Accordion Festival will be back, with Friday performances in Old Town, and Saturday afternoon shows at Waterwheel Park. Sunday, August 9, John Reischman and the Jaybirds return to Chemainus at 3:00 pm. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy this highly-acclaimed group of award-winning musicians up close, right here in our valley. Nashville Public Radio says of their CD Stellar Jays: “A masterpiece — a fascinating and freshsounding collection of tunes that incorporate the best elements of bluegrass and old-time into a killer new sound.” A minimum donation of ten dollars is requested to enjoy this high-profile concert. New in the park on August 15 is Kidz ArtBeat, a free arts festival for children. More than 25 different interactive visual and musical arts activities for the children to experience. See www.cvcas.com for more information about this event. On August 22 is the Chemainus Jazz Festival , including traditional New Orleans jazz of Dixieland Express, gypsy
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jazz performances by the Mark Atkinson Trio, great jazz vocals by the Susannah Adams Quartet. You’ll also see Holly Burke and the Naturals, as well as the Gabriel Palatchi Trio, who will be featuring some tunes from their new CD. For more information about any of these events please visit the CVCAS website at www.cvcas.com.
Seeing Double Tour Two poetic singer-songwriters, Jenica Rayne of Kingston, Ontario and Cheryl Cohen from Salt Spring Island and Ladysmith, are joining forces for Seeing Double Tour that includes a show in Ladysmith on Friday, August 14 from 7 to 9 pm at In the Beantime Café. Rayne is bringing folk-rock tunes out west from her fourth CD, Hit the Ground Running, and Cohen has just released her debut album, Love & Exile, which has a bluesy world music feel. Victoria guitarist Aaron Bethune and bass player Lynne will accompany Rayne and Cohen. Tickets to the In the Beantime show are $10, or $25 for dinner, and show. Phone 250-245-2305.
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On the Garden Path Growing Winter Food BY CAROLYN HERRIOT Thank goodness for the fall season ahead when cooling rains will soothe the scorched earth and we can plant again. It’s looking ahead to this time that we are now seeding winter veggies, food plants that thrive in cold weather conditions and provide fresh local food throughout winter months. Winter vegetables are food plants that can be harvested from October to May, a period when gardeners typically leave their garden beds empty. Allocate garden space specifically for winter crops or follow earlier crops of broad beans (favas), peas, lettuce, potatoes or garlic. TIP: When following an earlier crop feed the soil to renew fertility levels by mixing in compost or sowing a summer green manure crop. The Winter Garden Harvest Greens - (Vitamin-packed) Kale, chard, spinach, collards, mustards, oriental greens, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower. Carbohydrate - (Root vegetables) Beets, carrots, sunchokes, celeriac, parsnips, turnips and rutabagas, onions, leeks, garlic,
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shallots, scallions, ‘Walla Walla’ overwintering onions. Winter Salads - Lettuce, arugula, coriander, corn salad (mache), endive, escarole, radicchio, cress, mustard, kale, spinach and beet greens. Herbs - Parsley, coriander, rosemary, bay, oregano, sage, thyme, sweet marjoram, chives, calendula. In winter we tuck into cured winter squash, stored potatoes, garlic and onions and all the bottled, frozen or dried food we put by during the productive growing season. I am so grateful to live in an area with a mild temperate climate that allows food to grow throughout the winter months into spring. Growing winter food is one of the easiest things to do because then there are no bugs, no watering is needed and weeds do not grow in competition for soil nutrients. If sowing seeds directly into the garden the best time to do this is in August, but don’t forget the importance of extra watering during hot spells. Sow bugs, cabbage worms, pill bugs and earwigs can be the bane of juicy winter seedlings as they establish. Floating row covers, dusting with diatomaceous earth (flea beetles) and Bt insecticidal spray prevents damage from cabbage white butterfly worms. TIP: Removing older leaves prevents the build up of flea beetle and cabbage worm populations on their underside.
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Mesclun in the garden. Photo courtesy of Carolyn Herriot
TIPS: - If using transplants, plant them no later than September so that roots are established in time for harsh winter conditions. - Add lime to the soil to prevent club root in Brassicas. - Help young transplants establish by feeding weekly with liquid fish fertilizer. - Harvest tender young leaves after hard frosts because then the greens are sweeter due to the fact that plant cells convert starch to sugar to survive deep freezes. - Be patient with sprouting broccoli (white and purple). Leafy plants will form large heads in the spring, followed by weeks of tender sprout production. - Tender leafy greens fare better with protection from cloches or cold frames. A recycled wood box covered with a singlepane window or a polytunnel made from 6-ml plastic will work well for this purpose. Carolyn Herriot is author of ‘The Zero Mile Diet, A Year Round Guide to Growing Organic Food’. Meet Carolyn at the Cedar Farmer’s Market (Crow & Gate) with IncrEdibles! winter veggie starts every Sunday from 10-2 pm.
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RDN Area A (Cedar, Cassidy, S. Wellington) In early 2015, I was appointed as the Chair of the RDN’s Regional Solid Waste Advisory Committee (RSWAC). While my initial interest in this service area was related to tackling the foul, putrid odours emanating from the International Composting Company organics facility at Duke Point, I was attracted by the complexity of the multiple components involved in managing solid waste issues. One thing that is abundantly clear is that the costs associated with managing solid waste are on the rise. The sources of the increased costs are many. A significant source is legislated requirements imposed by the provincial government without the benefit of financial assistance to local government to address the additional costs involved. As a result, it is incumbent on local government to identify and explore all available avenues to try to keep these costs under control. In September 2014, the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities (AVICC), representing nine regional districts, hosted a solid waste management workshop in Nanaimo. The objective of the workshop was to identify the solid waste issues and challenges facing these regional districts. It was clear that to all participants that while there were some common issues involved, the challenge of managing solid was filled with complexities. It seemed akin to the ‘whack a mole’ arcade game of the past where solving one issue resulted in another issue popping up and needing to be ‘whacked’. In February 2015, in response to the outcomes of the above-noted workshop, the AVICC considered whether or not a special solid waste committee should be established. Terms of reference were established that included purpose and makeup of the committee. The primary purposes of the committee include summarizing and analyzing the current solid
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waste management plans within the nine regional districts; reviewing the provincially-mandated legislative framework; and, identifying areas for cooperation between jurisdictions with an aim to developing a long-term strategy for solid waste management within the AVICC communities. By April 2015, all nine regional districts had indicated that they would participate and a committee was formed. Initial meetings have been conducted by way of teleconference to keep expenditures to a minimum. The first face-to-face meeting of the members appointed by their respective regional districts occurred in mid-June 2015 with Edwin Grieve, Second Vice-Chair of the AVICC elected as Chair and myself, representing the RDN, as Vice-Chair. Consultants, Tetra Tech EBA facilitated this workshop including an overview of the solid waste management systems; a SWOT analysis - strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing the regional districts; an examination of the trends in solid waste management; and identification and prioritization of potential solutions and the associated issues and challenges. Meetings are scheduled to continue over the next six months – primarily via teleconference – with reporting out to the AVICC membership in April 2016 and subsequently to the Ministry of the Environment. The cooperative response to this significant issue is without precedence and, no doubt, the provincial government and other jurisdictions will be interested in the outcome(s). alecmcpherson@shaw.ca
CVRD Area H (North Oyster, Diamond) Yellow Point/Cedar Fire – July 2, 3 and 4, 2015: As you are aware, Vancouver Island has been in an extreme fire hazard advisory situation much earlier than other years. The lack of rain has severely impacted the condition of our rural fields and forested areas. The extremely dry
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condition has left this area vulnerable to wildfire. Although we hoped that such a scenario would never happen, we were faced with a fire that had the potential to grow, and grow quickly. The fire started in the Regional District of Nanaimo, Cedar area and quickly spread into North Oyster’s jurisdiction. It involved almost 20 hectares. Thankfully, our firefighters from the North Oyster Fire and Rescue Department spend a great deal of their time training for such situations. The intense training required to become a firefighter really paid off for our community. When the time came, the firefighters were quickly on site and competent in performing jobs. I am thankful that our department did not have to battle the blaze alone. In addition to North Oyster, Cedar, Cranberry, Ladysmith and Chemainus responded quickly, and three other halls were on stand-by for a call out if required. Forestry workers were called in to assist. Assistance came from above. Air support consisted of two planes dropping retardant and two helicopters dropping water. The RCMP manned barriers keeping the public away from the fire scene and directed traffic to another route. They also ordered the evacuation of residents, the bulk of which were from North Oyster. Both the Regional District of Nanaimo and the Cowichan Valley Regional District opened emergency centres. Local business owners also stepped up to defend this community from the fire. They willingly offered their equipment and their drivers to supply much needed water. We were very lucky this time. No buildings were destroyed, no people were injured, no animals were hurt and no one was displaced from their home. Although there were some challenges at the site, the firefighters from all of the departments performed like a well-oiled machine and effectively completed their
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Wildfire in Cedar spread quickly. Photo Marina Sacht
tasks. We cannot take it for granted that we will be as lucky if such an event occurs again. This incident is a reminder to be ever vigilant against fire hazards in these very dry times. The summer is not half over yet, and we must take care when disposing of smoking and other flammable materials. We must be aware that using gas powered lawnmowers and other gas powered machinery can easily spark another fire.We should all ensure we have hoses, and a water supply and a plan to use them in case it’s needed. I would like to express my great appreciation, respect for everyone who helped keep this community safe. While we slept at night the firefighters kept the fire contained. We all owe these local heroes a great debt of gratitude for their courage, dedication and commitment. Without their knowledge and skills, this could have turned into a much larger disaster. Outdoor Celebrations – Noise Control Bylaw 3723: I recognize that summer is a great time to get together with family and friends and share the special summertime celebrations. We all enjoy the great outdoors by sharing meals, refreshments and music with the people who are very special to us. Sometimes, we forget that just because we live in a less populated rural environment, the noise from these special occasions can spill over to nearby properties and have an impact on the entire neighbourhood. When planning these events, we must all keep in mind that some people have jobs that entail going to work in the early hours of the morning, working late at night or doing shift work. There can also be neighbours who are ill or recovering
from surgery that require peace and quiet. It can also be very difficult to settle down young children and babies once their sleeping patterns have been disturbed by loud noises. I have had numerous calls from residents who have been disturbed by outdoor activities this summer. I would like to remind everyone that all nine Electoral Areas in the Cowichan Valley Regional District have bylaws in place to regulate or prohibit objectionable noises or sounds. In the case of a special event waiver, a person may apply for and receive from the Regional District a permit waiving the requirements of this bylaw for a specific time over a specific location if, in the opinion of the Regional District, such a waiver is in the public interest. I would also like to remind you that an enforcement officer can immediately issue a $250.00 ticket for disregarding these regulations; the amount may become significantly higher for a summary conviction. Noise issues after hours can also be reported to the RCMP for enforcement. I believe if we are respectful of the people that share the life and lifestyle of this wonderful part of the Island, we can all enjoy our special outdoor activities without disturbing the peace and quiet in the neighbourhood. To obtain a copy of the regulations, you can go to the CVRD website (www.cvrd.bc.ca) and search for Noise Control Bylaw #3723. For any queries outside of normal office hours, call 250-746-2600 and leave a message with as much information as possible. The line is monitored after hours and during weekends.
Saltair Historical Society During Saltair Centennial Celebration in 2010 family story boards were displayed in Centennial Park. We saved those story boards that had family photos and historical information on them. They also told the story of Saltair. Since the CVRD purchased the school, now called Saltair Centre, we have space to display this information. It would be neat for people to take a tour to the classroom that would house the historical information. It would add to the experience. We will need volunteers to help set up the historical display. John Silins has these story boards stacked on his pool table and would love to have a game of pool again. Karen Wright and Joan Eggan were the ones during the celebration that organized the families in setting up story boards and contacting families far and wide that had moved away. They usually contacted one member and that member got the rest of the family moving on the project. There was a great deal of interest in the family and the community with these boards. There is something special about growing up in Saltair. Each year our community gives bursaries to students graduating from Grade 12 and going on to higher education. They often on reception of the bursaries write me a letter thanking me and the community for the support. In these letters very frequently they will mention how much they appreciated growing up in the community of Saltair. They love the parks, the beach and the friendly people. So if you would like to volunteer with the historical work, give me a call or email me. Saltair Water Advisory Commission A group of interested residents of Saltair are trying to persuade the CVRD to establish a Saltair Water Advisory Commission. This group made up of Lynne Smith, Jim Whittaker, Tami Edwards, Greg Taylor and John Silins, are very concerned about ensuring Saltair has the best and most secure water system possible. The CVRD manages our system and generally does good job but one of the problems is that we are one of the 19 systems that they manage and there are a lot of emerging issues out there that need to be considered as well. The group wants to be proactive rather than reactive and help the CVRD run a better system that is good now and well into the future. The group has made two presenta-
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tions to the CVRD and met with the Town of Ladysmith twice to make the two governments aware of our wishes. We share Stocking Lake with Ladysmith as our only source of water. So the town is a very important partner with us, but they also have other sources of water, which is good.The Saltair community has shown it is very supportive of our water system by endorsing a $4.5 million upgrade over a 15 year period. We are in the third year of the upgrades now. www.sunnysaltair.ca SALTAIR has it’s own website called www.sunnysaltair.ca. Please check it out and follow some the links for information about Saltair and area interests. You can post your local Saltair business on there for more exposure. Saltair people like to use Saltair businesses. It’s free, for now anyway.
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Last stand for Morden It is fair to say that our history is literally under our feet. An artifact route in downtown, walking trails built on old railway grades and historic parks such as the Morden Mine Colliery Park in South Wellington. Morden Mine is the most significant reminder on Vancouver Island of the age when “coal was king”. It is arguably that age’s most important symbol, and an iconic structure, one of the rarest of its kind in the world, not only according to Eric Ricker, co-president of the Friends of Morden Mine (FOMM) but experts, and engineers everywhere. There is no doubt that when you see the impressive seven story high structure, you are in awe. It’s rare to come face to face with such an impressive artefact built in 1913. Constructed in 1913 of reinforced concrete by the Pacific Coast Coal Mines Company, the Morden Colliery headframe and tipple are valued as the last remaining headframe and tipple on Vancouver Island. This is one of only two such reinforced concrete coal mine headframe/tipple structures in North America, and is the oldest one of its kind. The headframe and tipple, sealed pithead, ruins of ancillary buildings such as a steam plant and a blacksmith shop, and the historic route of the rail line that connected the mine to nearby Boat Harbour provide a powerful sense of history. Sadly despite spending $60,000 on several reports, with the latest report by Read Jones Christofferson released in 2014 calling for immediate repairs the structure languishes waiting for the next hard frost, or wind to bring it down. Formed in 2003, FOMM was formed when Judy Burgess moved to the South Wellington area and discovered Mor-
Morden during its hey-day, rail cars ready for loading. Coal was shipped four miles on the company railway to Boat Harbour for washing and loading. Photo courtesy of Friends of Morden Mine, Nanimo District Museum.
One shift of workers at Morden – 45 men and a dog! Date unknown but might be as late as 1930, at this point coal cars are hoisted to the headframe and an improvised chute is in place – likely to pour coal into trucks. Morden closed in 1921 (bankrupt and unable to pay its workers) but re-opened in 1930 under new ownership, operating for less than a year. It then closed forever and was eventually acquired by Mayo Lumber Co., which used the site for storage and waste disposal. Due to the efforts (and connections) of a prominent Vancouver businessman, George Wilkinson, it was acquired from Mayo by the BC government in the late 1960s and opened as a provincial park in 1972. Its park status was upgraded to Class A in 1974, which meant that it was to receive full funding and be properly developed. That never happened. Photo: Nanaimo District Museum.
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den Mine, forgotten and ignored even though it had been a provincial park for 30 years. Under Burgess, the FOMM quickly formed to preserve and by 2007, the society was sponsoring tours of Morden and other South Wellington area coal mine sites, led by author Tom Paterson. Today the group feeling abandoned by the province and various levels of government, are considering dissolving the society. Despite earlier progress and the example of the rehabilitation of the Kinsol Trestle by the Cowichan Valley Regional District, they have not been able to make progress with the current Minister of Environment who is refusing to return calls. The cost of stabilizing the site is estimated at $2.8 million, and while that may seem like a lot of dough, it’s a small price to pay for a piece of history that when it is gone, will be lost forever. It’s also a fraction of the cost that the CVRD spent to repair the Kinsol Trestle and some argue that the Morden Mine site has just as much or even more significance. “If it’s lost it will be B.C. Parks’ shame. But it also will be a shame that local politicians, unlike their counterparts in the CVRD, would not or could not step up,” says Ricker. One of the last acts that the FOMM plan to do is erect a cairn that will serve as a monument to the miners and the industry that lasted over 100 years on Vancouver Island. That monument may very well mark the passing of a society that has tried for over a dozen years to save one of the world’s most significant heritage mining sites. Even in its dilapidated state, the Morden Mine headframe and tipple draws visitors and tourists. Imagine the potential of a rehabilitated Morden with a Heritage Interpretive Centre, a bridge where the trestle once stood. It would be the jewel along a four mile regional trail to Boat Harbour, where Morden’s coal was once shipped to markets. If you think Morden should be saved, Ricker askes you to email Premier Clark: premier@gov.bc.ca, Enviroment Minister Mary Polak: ENV.MINISTER@ gov.bc.ca Regional District of Nanaimo Chairman Joe Stanhope: corpsrv@rdn. bc.ca and cc the FOM at info@mordenmine.com.
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Ladysmith & District Historical Society Allen McDermid interviews Rick Morgan, LDHS vcie -president
The Ladysmith and District Historical Society was incorporated as a not-for-profit society in 1999. Our mission is to promote awareness of Ladysmith’s history and to preserve its heritage. A major source of funding is provided by the Town of Ladysmith’s Grants in Aid program. Volunteers at both the Archives and Museum logged 4,500 (2014) hours. Other sources include the sale of heritage related books and other media, ticket raffle sales, participation in community events such as display booths where donations are gratefully accepted and heritage related material can be purchased. Taking out a membership has it rewards. Getting involved with a worthwhile community organization, getting out and meeting people and participating in group excursions are perks. Whether you are retired and would like to use skills you acquired after years of working or just entering the work force and in need of job related experience, we NEED you. As a member it is totally up to you as to how much you want to participate in society related activities. The Society is committed to working in cooperation with other local heritage and tourism oriented organizations such as the Ladysmith Maritime Society, the Heritage Revitalization Advisory Committee, LDHS Industrial Heritage Preservation Committee, the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce and of course the Town. Heritage and Tourism go hand in hand. To recover the cost of Heritage Preservation, it must provide an attraction for tourists.
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At the Museum, several new local school programs are being planned for September. Members of both the Archives and the Museum are working on local First Nations materials. Christine Meutzner, our Archivist has volunteered to offer a course for new and old volunteers in the fall entitled “Archives and Museums for Dummies” In addition to logging and mining industries displays, we offer a unique display on the role of women in Ladysmith’s history. At the Archives the digitization of the Ladysmith Chronicle is nearing completion. When done it will provide a searchable database of newspapers from 1902 to 1952. We are currently in the process of revamping our website to a more user friendly Wordpress site and to a new Island based host provider. Future enhancements include a GIS Story map section which will provide a relatively new and exciting visual resource for presenting Ladysmith’s heritage. A new search feature is being implemented which should provide better search facilities of historic photo collections such as the Knight Collection, the digitization of online interviews with historic local personalities and an online Store section on the website is being planned to expand our market for heritage related books and other material. The Society recently set up an Ancestry Library Edition account for members doing heritage related research. We need you. Please consider joining the Ladysmith & District Historical Society. Drop in at the Museum 721 First Avenue or the Archives at 1115-B First Avenue below Tim Hortons and see for yourself what we’re all about.
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August meteor showers A sudden flash across the dark night sky and my heart skips a beat. Seeing a shooting star is a thrilling event. Looking for shooting stars is an activity which requires little to no equipment or knowledge to appreciate. The only requirement is access to a dark sky. The term shooting star is a misnomer. They have nothing to do with stars. Perhaps a more proper term is meteor, though meteor terminology is somewhat imprecise and confusing. Meteors are little bits of space debris such as ice, rock and iron – mostly about the size of a grain of sand – lost by comets as they pass close to the sun, which burn up from friction as they enter the earths atmosphere at speeds of around 200,000 kilometers per hour. Meteoroids are those same chunks of “debris” when in space (and which could become meteors if they enter the earth’s atmosphere). A meteorite is a piece of this same type of material which is large enough to reach the earth’s surface. On most clear nights we can see several meteors per hour. The incidents of meteors increase when the orbit of the earth crosses the orbital path of a comet. This results in many meteors in a night – sometimes as many as a hundred per hour resulting in what is called a meteor shower. The Perseid meteor showers are one of the best we are likely to see in this area. Every August our planet passes through the orbital path of the comet Swift-Tuttle. Americans Lewis Swift and Horace Tuttle “discovered” this comet within days of each other in July 1862. (Not surprisingly it had been seen by others prior to this). The popularity of the Perseid meteor shower is at least in part due to the season in which they occur. We are more likely to have warm, clear nights in August than we are in December when
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Perseid meteor showers Photo:Dave Dugdale, www.flickr.com/photos/davedugdale/
the Geminid showers occur. The Perseids also tend to be more dependable than some of the other showers and have meteors which tend to leave a gaseous trail. Also, the debris field which results in the Perseid showers is wide and so we have multiple nights of viewing. The peak nights for viewing are on August 12 and 13. This year the new moon is on August 14 so as long as we don’t have cloud cover obscuring the sky it should make for good viewing. The peak time for the meteors are between midnight (standard time) and dawn, as that is when we are on the leading edge of the earth as it moves around the sun and “runs” into more of the meteoroids. (This is similar to the front of a driving car running into more raindrops than the back of the car.) The name of the meteor showers comes from the constellation from which they seem to radiate. Perseus is a constellation in the northeastern part of the sky. Looking for meteors does not require knowing the constellations and in fact the meteors have nothing to do with the constellation. The stars in Perseus are light years away while the meteors are only about 100 km above the earth’s surface. If you have the chance, find a dark open area to camp out on the nights of August 12-13 and enjoy this spectacular celestial event. It could change the way you see your place in the universe. Sources: http://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/everything-you-need-to-know-perseid-meteor-shower#source http://www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/meteor-shower/perseid.html Jay Rastogi is a naturalist, hoticulturalist and educator living in Yellow Point. Reach him at ecoforestry@gmail.com
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Sissy tap roots News flash: Due to extreme drought conditions local water officials have been forced to adopt a new community bumper sticker: DON’T SHOWER, SAVE A PLANT. Though the old motto, CONSERVE WATER, SHOWER WITH A FRIEND, served the community well, especially the longhairs, it was not without controversy as some got carried away with it. Mostly to divorce lawyers. As one old timer put it, we haven’t seen temperatures like this since 1965. That was the year they shut down local birdbaths and posted signs that any bird wishing to freshen up could damn well go to the city and fly through a car wash. Community members have been urged to conserve water wherever possible. That’s why I stopped washing my hands before dinner and lick them clean instead. (It works for the cat doesn’t it?) Some dinner guests from the city find this disconcerting, but hey, that’s city folk for you. Several entrepreneurial members of
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the community have bought their own water trucks seeking to help out, maybe earn a little beer money. Costs however have skyrocketed. It used to be all you needed to get into business was a truck, a hose, and a driver not afraid to show a little bum crack above a pair of ill- fitting jeans. Now you also need a well- armed individual to ride shotgun, just like the stagecoaches of yesteryear on their way to the mine with the payroll. Just last week, a truck was hijacked, only to be found the next day, every drop of water sucked out of it, a gift wrapped zucchini on the seat, a “please come again,” note on the dash. Company insiders blamed the driver who made the mistake of stopping for a full case of Lucky lying in the middle of a deserted stretch of Yellowpoint Road. “We didn’t know what hit us,” said driver Buck Torgerson. “We braked for the beer, I mean, who wouldn’t, and they were on us. Next thing I know, we’re sitting on the road, wrapped in gardening twine, surrounded by balaclava wearing women wielding mean looking, blackjack- shaped parsnips, all of them screaming, ‘Your water, or your life.’ Let me tell ya, I was scared.“ When questioned why they didn’t fight back, after all, the average age of the attackers was 67, Torgerson said, “You could tell by the way they were holding their parsnips that they knew how to use them. Maybe you want “Bludgeoned To Death by a Root Vegetable” on your tombstone, but not this boy.”
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From the descriptions provided by the driver and embarrassed guard, they were overcome by full patch (cabbage, in this case) members of the Truculent Tubers, just one of many gangs roaming the community in search of water. Though Torgerson and associate both lost their job for what has to be considered the oldest trick in the book, they took the loss philosophical, saying, “What the heck. We got to keep the beer didn’t we?” When asked to comment on the incident, police chief Dwight Harvey said, “With wells being drier than a James Bond martini, water snatchings are going through the roof. Never leave your water bottle unattended, even in a locked vehicle. Know where it is at all times.” “Even then,” Harvey said. “I’d rather sail naked in an open boat off the pirate infested coast of Somalia than walk down Yellowpoint Road in broad daylight carrying a full water bottle.” But that’s Harvey for you. Full time law enforcement; part time nudist. With plants dying left and right, some place the blame on global warming, but they would be wrong. The real problem, and you read it first here, is sissy tap roots. There’s plenty of water out there, a plant just has to reach for it. We’ve been sucked in by the nurseries to buy the wrong plants; plants that suffer from what’s known as Lazy Root Syndrome. That’s why I say stick with plants that have manly tap roots capable of boring through the centre of the earth in search of water. I’m talking about our local dandelion, a plant that will stand up to
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a flamethrower. Plus, you can make wine with it. Try that with your stupid tulip.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dandelions: F.A.Q. 1: My buddy Dave says the Falkland Island war was started because of dandelions. Is this true? Answer: Dave nailed it. English gardeners developed a deep root clone genetically engineered to find water even in the driest conditions. Affectionately known in British gardening magazines as “The Thatcher” for its great determination, some of the earlier, thirstier, plantings bored their way through the center of the earth reaching as far as Buenos Aires where they put a choke hold on the city’s water mains. When England wouldn’t pay for the damages, Argentina invaded the Falklands, though we’re not sure why. F.A.Q. 2: What if I was planning to paint my house lime green to match my Dodge. Won’t dandelion yellow clash? Answer: Dandelions, thanks to genetic engineering, don’t have to be yellow. Yes, I know, we’re not supposed to like genetic engineers, but over beers, once the pocket protectors come off, they have an excellent sense of humour. Who else would have thought to take a cauliflower, a vegetable that tastes like a Styrofoam lawn ornament, and looks like Mike Duffy’s head, and turn it flat purple. Yes, it was supposed to be shiny gloss purple like an eggplant, another vegetable in need of a publicist, but so was Mike Duffy’s head. F.A.Q. 3: How did the dandelion get its name? Answer: Haven’t a clue. Ask Dave.
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F.A.Q. 4: What do you think of Chief Harvey’s idea to lure the Truculent Tubers out of hiding by walking down Yellowpoint Road naked with a full water bottle? Answer: Considering that his last plan was to walk naked through the Farmer’s Market, not bad. F.A.Q. 5: What wine would you recommend to beat the summer heat? Answer: Hillside K White (Yes, that’s the name.) At the Wheatsheaf, $17. Delbert Horrocks is a co-proprietor at Mahle House Restaurant. Follow him at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com
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Music Hall Food Co. BY ALLEN MCDERMID The much anticipated wait is finally over. The Music Hall Food Company, the venue with a menu, on Roberts Street in Ladysmith is now open for business. This quaint heritage building, which once housed the Hub Cafe in 1953, now contains what will soon be a crowd favourite, a place to enjoy good food, handcrafted beer and of course live music in an intimate atmosphere.
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When you walk into the eatery you will be greeted with many artifacts, pictures and a one of a kind bottle chandelier hanging in the centre of the room. Robin Ramalho, the manager and coowner, will be more than happy to explain the stories behind his eclectic collection of woodwork and collectables, especially the unique bar which features wooden cubbyholes taken from the old ship Ladysmith II; the woodwork from Ladysmith’s historic hotels such as the Abbotsford, The Frank and The Grand; tables from the Traveller’s Hotel and so much more. The Music Hall Food Company menus have been brilliantly created in the fashion of an old LP record album. Inside you will find an array of tasty appetizers, gourmet burgers, sandwiches and Bandito’s burritos. Save room for the desserts including Creme Brule. The Martini menu is cleverly designed as a 45 RPM record jacket. Inside there is a large selection of locally named martinis that should be a hit with Ladysmithonians. On tap you will find the Island’s favourite handcrafted beers. Robin has big plans for live entertain-
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ment that will feature local, national and international musicians. Please check them out and take in Ladysmith’s great history that he has lovingly preserved. Robin Ramalho at The Music Hall Food Company where history, food and music meet. Photo: Rob Johnson
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AUGUST 2015
EDUCATION
FOR SALE LOT FOR SALE, 71 Centennial Rd. $128,800.00 13, 700 sq. ft with possible ocean view and easy access to shopping and transportation 250-722-2584 CAMPERS CORNER MARKET will be open June 11 thru September 11. Weekdays from noon to 5pm, 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 9am5pm, 13230 Code Rd. Lots of household items. Two 2 drawer filing cabinets, living room furniture; china dishes; power saws; bdrm. armoire and night stands. All very reasonably priced to sell, 250-245-0259. YELLOWPOINT HOME AND ACREAGE. Nice country house and 2.5 scenic acres for sale by owner. Close to public beach access. Six min. from the Crow and Gate. $549,000. Call/text 250-816-5031 FOR RENT OFFICE SPACES Downtown Ladysmith, modern, reasonable rent or lease. 250-245-3395. COUNTRY COTTAGE, for short term or long term, close to Nanaimo Airport. Furnished or unfurnished, $300 a week, call for longer stays, Ref required, no partiers or smokers. 250-2459165 or marinasacht@yahoo.ca BUSINESS FOR ALL YOUR SEWING NEEDS – Bedding, window treatments, couch and chair covers, cushions, pillows, special accessories and décor, dressmaking and alterations – what ever comes to your mind, Elke, 250-618-1172 or info@ egrstudios.com KEN’S MOBILE MARINE SERVICE, over 25 yrs 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. 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 250-748-9923 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)
ACCEPTING REGISTRATIONS FOR SEPTEMBER BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS NOW! Sense of Place Youth Project Ltd at North Oyster Community Centre (Lic#KRIS-9MPPYV) 7:30 - 5:30 pm, Mon – Fri. Nature programming, arts/crafts, hiking, building, music, games etc. Full, part time and drop-in spots, subsidy welcome 250-667-1222, 250618-3396 www.senseofplaceyp.com, patti@ senseofplaceyp.com 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 ISAGENIX 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 250245-8407. 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, on-going 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!
TAKE 5 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 250-668-8383 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
take5.ca 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.
45 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! 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
QUALITY RENOVATIONS Big or small. 25 yrs exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate call Lars. 250-616-1800
RAISED GARDEN BEDS, planters, railings, decks, benches, woodsheds, greenhouses. Enhance your enjoyment of the home and yard you love. Namaste Home Improvements 250245-2751
DARRELL ESSAR RENOVATIONS Over 30 years experience, certified journeyman carpenter. No job is too small, from fences, decks, tile work, hardwood flooring, painting, drywall etc. For free estimate call Darrell 250-714-3823.
ISLAND PRUNING - Professional tree care from large scale orchards to budding new trees. I can meet any pruning need. Shrubs, vines and ornamentals. Large and small clean ups. Call Darcy Belcourt 250-245-1260
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. 250-245-3391 www. lynnsseniorcare.com
PETS
RETIREMENT, SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY, or BIRTHDAYS, family or single portraits, on location. Reasonable rates and friendly service, starting at $75. Phone Marina at 250-245-9165.
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, office cleaning, flexible service schedule. Alicia 250-709-1364
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)
SENIORS
MEMOIRS, We can help from start to finish, also book publishing, corporate histories, and fundraisers, call TAKE 5 for a quote, 250-245-7015.
TAKE 5
take5.ca
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