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APRIL 2014
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Letters Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club watershed and area debris clean up 2014 The Ladysmith Sportsmen’s club spearheaded a watershed and area garbage clean up. Thank you to TAKE 5 and the Chronicle for advertising the cleanup event .We had an excellent turnout of volunteers, club members, community members, Advocates of Holland Creek, Timber West, Ladysmith Search and Rescue, Department of Fisheries and Oceans as well as conservation services. Special thanks to the CVRD for covering the tipping fees and a community cleanup fund for cleanup materials and lunch. Ryler Bulk supplied the truck and the bin for the event. Doug Copp Excavating loaded the bin, and Stalker Excavating supplied a bobcat and operator as well. Tim Horton’s Ladysmith supplied hot chocolate, muffins and doughnuts to start our day off. A total of 14,500 lbs of illegally dumped debris was picked up by the volunteers. What a difference a dedicated group can make in a short period of time. It was in 2011 that the same people picked up 48,000 lbs. In three years 14,500 lbs has been hauled back into the woods. This illegally dumped debris puts the environment, the wildlife and public access at risk. Most of the debris that was picked up - paper, plastic, tires, electrical appliances - could have been recycled for free. Why is this continuing? Isn’t every day earth day? - Dave Judson, Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club
Excellent I would like to acknowledge letter about a local business. We had two water tanks and all the plumbing of the tanks into the was house installed by ABC Water Systems. All the work done by ABC was done on budget and on time by a very professional and very happy crew. I would recommend them to any one for any water work rural folks need. Once again we say thank you to for doing very good work. - Andy Patterson
Spring I’m sure I’m not the first (I’ve just read the magazine this weekend), nor the only, person to comment on your “technically” spring comment! The 4 season changes are listed on every calendar-March,
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remains to be seen, but we’re still ahead of the rest of the continent! - Ann Hockey
Guns not a joke I’ve read many articles written about guns but last month’s Slightly Corked tops them all. Guns are serious business; they were used in providing the next meal in a family, to protect our country and our personal property. A gun of any sort is not a toy and should never be regarded as such. I read Mr. Horrocks’ column more than once and could only find simple stupidity in it. It isn’t funny or constructive. Some people may very well think it funny - but not all of them will. There are some people who have seen the results of some of your “nonsense”, and I used that word because I will refrain from using the term I’d prefer. Alcohol and guns do not mix. - Vivian Wilford Letters to the editor are welcome but subject to space and editing and do not June, September and December, so of course you can find the Spring Equinox.....next necessarily reflect those of TAKE 5. ediweek, “technically” March 20th this year instead of the usual 21st of the month. Whether tor@take5.ca Po Box 59, Ladysmith, we have or can maintain “spring” weather conditions or not (now that our snow is gone), BC V9G 1A1
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Town of Ladysmith energy reduction initiatives BY RUTH MALLI, CITY MANAGER TOWN OF LADYSMITH Did you know that Ladysmith achieved an impressive third place finish for all of British Columbia and the largest energy reduction in energy consumption for all of Vancouver Island in the World Wildlife Federation’s 2013 Earth Hour? Our Town’s energy smart efforts are guided by the Community Sustainability Implementation Plan (CSIP) and the Community Energy Plan. Citizens were heavily involved in the visioning process that resulted in the Sustainability Vision, which guided the CSIP and sets out a shared goal to be one of Canada’s greenest communities. The CSIP includes performance measures to monitor our progress in achieving that goal. The Community Energy Plan outlines more detailed targets for energy savings, including over thirty action items aimed at reducing community and corporate energy consumption and GHG (greenhouse
Ruth Malli, City Manager
gas) emissions. The Town of Ladysmith achieves carbon neutral status in municipal (corporate) operations through a combination of energy reduction initiatives and the purchase of carbon credits through Cowichan’s own “Community Carbon Marketplace”. A sampling of other recent energy smart initiatives in Ladysmith includes:
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An energy audit of the Frank Jameson Community Centre (which uses the most energy and has the highest level of emissions of all of our municipal facilities). The audit recommended key building and equipment upgrades to reduce energy consumption and emissions, many of which are being undertaken with grant funding in 2014; * New electric vehicle charging stations in the downtown commercial area for public use; * Regulations to support energy efficiency in building design in the updated Zoning Bylaw; * An amendment to the Building and Plumbing Bylaw requiring all new residential buildings to be constructed as ’Solar Hot Water Ready’; * Adoption of a Civic Green Building Policy which requires environmentallyfriendly building practices for all new municipal buildings; * Diversion of over 60% of the community’s waste from landfills through our award-winning curbside organics and recycling collection program (reduces methane emissions); * Construction of a new sewage treatment plant that will provide full secondary treatment, as well as energy saving components built into the design; * Composting of biosolids for reuse in town landscaping projects; * Facilitation of a ‘Climate Smart for Business’ program which assisted Ladysmith businesses to learn about climate change, count GHG emissions, and develop custom strategies for energy savings; *Adoption of the Ladysmith Bicycle Plan to encourage cycling and reduce vehicle-related GHG emissions; and, *Added ability to receive Utility bills via e-mail, reducing number of paper bills generated. Where do these ideas come from? Ladysmith’s residents are exceptionally engaged and enthusiastic contributors of ideas to improve community sustainability. The Town also looks to best practices in other communities throughout Canada, as well as globally. Municipal staff are another key source for ideas – in 2008, the Town established an Employee Green Team to promote and demonstrate the Town’s sustainability vision within the organization. Internal
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changes that have been initiated by the Green Team include: * Introduction of a ‘no bottled water’ policy for Town sponsored events; * Recycling batteries through the “Call 2 Recycle” battery and cell phone program; * Promotion of electricity conservation initiatives in all workplaces; * A policy requiring the use of recycled copy and printer paper; * Double siding all photocopying and print jobs; * Holding regular ‘lunch and learn’ sessions on topics ranging from local food consumption to energy audits; * Turning flowerbeds at City Hall into vegetable gardens, maintained and harvested by the Public Works crew with harvest donated to the Ladysmith Food Bank; * Using environmentally friendly cleaning products in Town buildings; and, * Campaigns to encourage employees to car pool, bike or walk to work. The Town’s ongoing engagement and empowerment of employees to actively contribute to an environmentally friendly workplace that leads by example is undoubtedly one of the key reasons that the Town was named one of “Canada’s Greenest Employers” for both 2012 and 2013. Energy smart ideas that are on the horizon for Ladysmith include a notification system to ensure residents are aware of financial incentives and rebate programs for residential energy efficiency; vehicle efficiency inventory and assessment of the municipal fleet; exploring alternative forms of energy, such as solar, wind and geothermal that could be adopted by individual houses or neighbourhoods; and, use of heat from existing municipal sources, such as sewage pipes or pumping stations, to heat buildings through a ‘district energy system’. For more energy reduction ideas and ways you can contribute to environmental sustainability, check out the Town’s website at http://www.ladysmith.ca/ sustainability-green-living/overview and the CVRD Environment Commission’s “12 Months of 12 Big Ideas” - an environmentally informative, locally inspired, free monthly eNewsletter. To sign up, or for more information, go to 12things.ca and click “sign up”.
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Ladysmith Maritime Festivals are here! Mark your calendars for the last weekend in May and the first weekend in June. Ladysmith Maritime Society's Maritime Festival 2014 is going to be great. Kids' Pirate Day on May 31 is always a rocking good time. Jack Sparrow usually shows up with his pirate band to keep the clowns under control. If face painting, the craft table, the petting zoo, pirate slide and the bouncy octopus aren't enough to keep you entertained, then prepare yourself for the star attraction...the Kinsmen Bullhead derby. Bring your own gear or use the fishing rods that are supplied. There will be volunteers to bait hooks and untangle lines. The catch...bullheads, shiners, flounders, old boots, will be kept alive, weighed and released. There are some very cool prizes. Please bring your own children's life jackets if you have them as the Derby is a huge attraction and the LMS supply soon runs low. Amble the docks and pick out your dream boat. Visit our beautiful Welcome Centre, floating museum, the restored heritage vessels Saravan and Kirkegaard and ashore the Harbour Heritage Center. Still not enough? Take a free harbour tour on Maritimer and see eagles, herons, oyster catchers, otters and our wonderful working harbour. Ladysmith Maritime Heritage Day is the next Saturday, June 7. Our newly extended visitors dock now gives us over 1000 feet of dock space for visiting heritage vessels. Classic wooden pleasure craft and work boats will be crammed in and open for your inspection. Ashore there will be a display of heritage trucks, cars and equipment in the upper area hosted by the Mid Island Tractor and Equipment Club and the Vintage Car Club.
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The new RCMSAR vessel will be commissioned in a ceremony with four other SAR craft in attendance. Some lucky folks will get free rides on the fabulous new craft. If the line up is too long for that, take a free harbour tour on the LMS vessel, Maritimer. The Yellow Point Cutter owned by Richard Hill of the Yellow Point Lodge and restored by Ladysmith's own Robert Lawson is eye candy for the wooden boat enthusiast. At the far end of the dock, the 80 foot opulent M.V. Deerleap will leave you amazed by the attention to detail. Talk to one of the local marine artists that will be showing on the docks. Come for breakfast or lunch at our Oyster Bay Cafe in the Welcome Centre. Stroll the docks, chat with boat owners and neighbours, relax, sit and enjoy the beautiful setting. The purple martins will be swooping very close, hard at work choosing nest boxes.
Oyster Bay Cafe opens The newest addition to the LMS docks is Oyster Bay Cafe. The cafe is located inside the Welcome Centre. The cafe will offer a breakfast and lunch menu, freshly made by chef Trudy O’Hearn featuring sea worthy tastes such as The Life Raft, crepes filled with fluffy scrambled eggs, chopped bacon and white cheddar, topped with a mornay sauce, green onions and tomatoes. Or the Lite House, creamy vanilla yogurt layered with fresh fruit and granola. Portside Scones are baked each morning. Other specialties include the Compass Rose, NY Yacht Club, The Shrimp Boat, Starboard Salad and Oyster Bay Chowder. As we move into prawn, mussel and oyster season, Trudy will prepare many special menu items, all fresh from our coastal waters. Come down to the dock, and say hello. For more information contact: Rod Smith, Ladysmith Maritime Society 250245-0109. www.ladysmithmaritimesociety.ca
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Ladysmith & District Credit Union celebrates 70 years BY MARINA SACHT At the Ladysmith & District Credit Union’s AGM on April 29, at the Eagles Hall, members where treated to a special surprise. A new history book commemorating the Credit Union’s 70th Anniversary was presented. Ladysmith Our Community Your Credit Union - A History featuring many historic photos never published before. Author Dr. Patrick Dunae chronicles the rise of the Ladysmith & District Credit Union through its early days to today. It is a rich tale of the people and events that shaped our community. Dunae had previously written a book entitled Excelsior, on the history of Nanaimo Credit Union in 1996. John de Leeuw, Chief Executive Officer asked him to tackle the history of the Ladysmith & District Credit Union., TAKE 5 Publications did the production. In researching the book Dunae was delighted to discover that many prominent people in the modern history of British Columbia were involved with the founding of the Credit Union. They included Sam Guthrie, Ladysmith’s MLA in the 1930s and 1940s, who was revered as a social reformer, and Rod Glen, a native son of Ladysmith, who was a giant in the provincial, national, and international credit union movement. He was struck by the progressive spirit of the Credit Union. The founding board of directors included women, one of whom was elected president in 1947. “I think she was the first woman to lead a Credit Union in the province.” Women were not involved in the same way in other Credit Unions. “It was very satisfying to be able to weave the story of founders like Sam Guthrie into the narrative of the Credit Union. It was also satisfying being able to place the Credit Union in a larger historical context – to connect it with the Comox Logging Company, the IWA woodworkers’ union, and the history of Ladysmith since the Second World War. I really enjoyed meeting so many people who were connected with the Credit Union in the past, and who are involved with it now,” says Dunae. At the AGM, Rob Johnson was presented with the first copy. “It was Rob who started this project,” says Brian Childs, president of the Board. A few years ago Johnson suggested we produce a book on the history of the Credit Union. Johnson’s father Earl attended the formation meeting of the LDCU in May of 1944. He drew number 3. “This account is still active today as I took it over after his death, and I intend to pass it on to my son,” says Johnson. The Credit Union played a vital
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role in many families, says Johnson. He recalls how his parents lived in a two bedroom cabin. “The war was raging and local resident were putting all their extra cash in to purchasing War Bonds. Loans were hard to acquire, especially if you were a logger who faced seasonal shut downs because of fire season and snow in the woods.” By1944 they had a 2 year old daughter, Earleyne, and Rose was expecting another child in October. They needed to expand the cabin into a larger home. With the formation of the Ladysmith and District Credit Union, they were able to get a loan to convert the cabin into a comfortable three bedroom home that still stands on Bayview Avenue today. Over the years there would be new cars, fridges, stoves TV’s, boat and motors. Johnson recalls how nervous he was sitting in the office when it was on Esplanade hoping for a loan to buy his first car, a 1956 Bel Air. “I can still remember sweating out that interview. I really wanted that car.” He got it. Johnson recalls his wife calling him to the kitchen. Marilyn was perplexed. “Several hundred dollars had been put into our account by the Credit Union and she was at a loss as to why. It was a dividend payment on our share account, and a rebate on our mortgage because profits earned by the Credit Union are shared with its members.” She shook her head and said “Banks don’t do this.” Looking back on his 19 years with the Credit Union, John de Leeuw says there have been many highlights. “Our involvement with Ladysmith Light Up as the main sponsor, the introduction of the Kids ‘Count Fun Zone at Ladysmith Days, increasing our bursaries to total $13,000 every year, the interior renovations to our building in 2006 & 2007, the purchase of the buildings next door for the vision of our full service financial services center, and the opening of our Wealth Management subsidiary. In the next five years you will see a dramatically new physical presence on First Avenue, says de Leeuw. Plans are to amalgamate the buildings they own on First Avenue and Roberts Street and create a full service financial services center where you will be able to access loans mortgages, investments, insurance, realtors, and perhaps even a lawyer’s office or an accountant’s, he says. “It is a very exciting time for the Credit Union and the future looks extremely bright for us.” Drop in on May 16 to help them celebrate. Proceeds from the book Ladysmith Our Community Your Credit Union - A History will be donated to the community. Some of the Ladysmith & District Credit Union staff, 2014. Photo: Marina Sacht
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Historical time line of the Ladysmith & District Credit Union 1944 May 14 Public meeting in Nicholson’s Hall, above the Wigwam on First Avenue, to propose a credit union for Ladysmith. 1944 May 18th Ladysmith & District Credit Union is granted Charter No. 116 in the provincial credit union system. 1944 June 16th Rev. Everett S. Fleming is elected as the 1st president of the Credit Union. 1947 Helmi Kotilla is elected president. She is the first female president of a credit union in BC. 1948 The Credit Union sets up a desk to do business at 530 First Avenue, in space provided by Sub-Local 1-80, IWA. 1953 Axel Anderson is elected president. The Credit Union establishes a school savings program with elementary schools in Ladysmith and Saltair. 1957 Erik Persson is elected president. 1959 The Credit Union purchases its own building (the former telephone exchange) and opens an office at 422 Esplande.
take5.ca manager. She is the first paid employee of the Credit Union. 1963 Andy Easton is elected president. Gloria Shupe joins as part-time assistant to Mrs. Persson. 1966The Credit Union moves to a new office at 18 High Street. 1968 Tom McAdam is elected president. 1969 Ruth Persson retires and John Bouthillier is hired as general manager. 1970 The Credit Union has five permanent employees and negotiates a contract for them with the Office & Technical Employees’ Union. 1974 The Credit Union moves into a new, architect-designed building at 330 First Avenue. The building is officially opened in February, with ribbon-cutting by Mayor Kay Grouhel. 1975 Sam Casler is elected president. 1977 Jack McDonald is elected president. A subsidiary, LCU Insurance Agencies, Ltd., is incorporated. 1987 John Bouthillier retires. Derek Dorken is appointed general manager. 1988 Gloria Shupe retires as assistant manager.
1960 Chris Ridgway is elected president.
1990 David De Clark is elected president.
1962 Ruth Persson is hired as treasurer-
1992 The Jack McDonald Memorial Scholarship is created.
17 1994 The Credit Union premises are extended with an upper level addition facing Roberts Street. LCU Insurance Agencies, Ltd. is located in the new addition. 1995 John De Leeuw joins the Credit Union as Operations Manager. 2002 Derek Dorken named Citizen of the Year because of his charitable work on behalf of the Credit Union in the community. 2005 Derek Dorken retires; John De Leeuw is appointed Chief Executive Officer [CEO]. Ralph Harding is elected president. The Credit Union adopts a distinctive brand, with new colours, a distinctive logo, and tagline: Our Community. Your Credit Union. LCU Insurance Agencies, Ltd. also has a new image and tagline: Smart People. Smart Choice. 2006 Brian Childs is elected president. 2014 The Credit Union’s wealth management and investment subsidiary, LDCU Financial Management, is launched and located heritage buildings on First Avenue, adjacent to the main office. The new venture has its own logo and tagline: Invest. Globally. Locally. With a staff of about 40 people, the Credit Union is the largest employer in the financial sector in Ladysmith. The Credit Union celebrates its 70th anniversary and publishes an illustrated commemorative book entitled Ladysmith – Our Community, Your Credit Union – a History.
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New Chair Named at Nanaimo Airport Commission John Craig who took over the Chair position at the Nanaimo Airport Commission on April 8 is proud of the Nanaimo Airport and its growth - from the terminal and parking lots to expanded services in the air and on the ground. Opportunity is what Craig sees when he points to the vacant lands south and north of the terminal. The Commission is working with the RDN and the community to get the zoning that “will allow us to develop services compatible with the community. “We will be the champion stewards of environment. We get that we are on the aquifer” An environmental assessment is underway from which protocols will be developed to go forward. “Zoning bylaws will give us and our community certainty in the future.” But Craig is in no hurry. “We have to allow time for the process. It’s all about balance, he says. “We want the best service from the highway to the runway.”
Grand opening of Cedar skatepark The official grand opening of the Cedar Skate Park with a Cedar Skate Jam is set for Saturday, May 24 starting at 11 am. Join in for pro-demos, skatejam, music, bbq, prizes and lots of fun.Vicky Suddaby, Chair of the Cedar Skatepark Association who spearheaded the drive for the park years ago is pleased with the reaction so far. “People are saying that it’s the best park on the Island,” she says she has heard rave reviews about the new skatepark located at the Cedar Community Secondary School. “I’m very excited that it’s finally here,” she says. The opening promises to be a fun day with exciting competitions and demos featuring Island Riders and more. “It will be a very cool day,” she laughs.
John Craig, the new chair of Nanaimo Airport Commission. Photo: Marina Sacht
Mother’s Day The Mother’s Day Tea is a time honoured tradition of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Ladies Auxiliary. “It was the Eagles who petitioned the government to recognize Mother’s Day and therefore it is a very important date for us to celebrate,” said Debby Baker, Chaplain, FOE #2101 Ladies Auxiliary. It is at this event that the Madam President of the Auxiliary, Shirley Hunt, presents their yearly donations to worthy local charities. Last year, there was over $30,000 in donations with half being handed out at the Mother’s Day Tea. This year’s recipients will include: Haven House, the Ladysmith Fire Rescue, the Ladysmith Maritime Rescue, the Ladysmith Food Bank and Festival of Lights to name a few. There are also prizes given to the oldest mother, the youngest mother, the mother with the most children present, the mother from farthest away, the mother whose birth date is closest to mother’s day. A traditional afternoon tea is served along with a raffle table with over 40 different items, a bake sale, a meat pie sale and entertainment by local musicians. Another great Mother’s Day event is the Cedar Lions Mother’s Day Breakfast. Come and treat your mom at the Cedar Community Secondary School, a new venue from 8:30 am to noon on Mother’s Day.
New equipment for Community Centre In April, new Sports Art 2014 model treadmills, elliptical, steppers, recumbent bikes and upright bikes were added to the facility at FJCC. The new treadmills use less energy while still delivering performance. The ellipticals, steppers, and new bikes self-generate power so in the future the facility has the option to harness the power and put it back in the grid, says Clayton Postings, Director of Ladysmith Parks, Recreation & Culture. You can check out the upgrades for free. On Move for Health Day, May 10, come to the community centre for a free swim from 3pm to 5pm. They are offering our monthly pass for a special price of $25 which allows full access to the recreation centre. With the purchase of this special one-month pass, the holder can convert it into a one-year pass (before June 30, 2014) and will receive the original one-month pass fee of $25 as a credit towards an additional year. For more info call 250-245-6421
RCM-SAR unit 29 donation Station Leader Nick Epp-Evans accepted a $1000 donation check from Royal Bank of Canada employee Debbie Marks. This was part of RBC’s Day of Service programme where-by they offer not just a financial donation but bank
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employees to assist with any maintenance and manual work within the communitys that they serve.
Hot dog fundraiser Kinsmen Hot Dog Sale A Doggone Success with $1800 in hot dog sales and over 1/2 ton of food collected at this fundraiser for the Ladysmith Food Bank on April 12 and 13 at the 49th Parallel Grocery in Ladysmith. Farmer Ben donated 345 dozen eggs. Other appreciated support came in from Twisted Scissors Hair Salon, Ladysmith Veterans Club, Sportsman Hotel, Dan Hunter Denturist and the 49th Parallel Grocery.
St. John’s Bible Event On Friday March 28, three volumes of the Heritage edition of the hand-scripted and illustrated Saint John’s Bible were on display for the students and public. Bishop Emeritus Remi de Roo of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Victoria has taken on the task of bringing a copy of this seven volume work of modern sacred art to the west coast. The original tomes were made using traditional materials such as vellum (calfskin), ancient inks, gold and silver leaf and platinum, and was written with quill pens fashioned from goose, turkey and swan feathers. The west coast copy of this first hand scripted and illustrated Bible in five hundred years, is in safe keeping at the University of Victoria.
The Happy Cockatoo Joey Tomato the Moluccan cockatoo needed a new home as his owner Shirley moved from her house in Delta into a senior housing complex and he was not allowed to go with her. She was a responsible parrot owner and contacted F.E.A.T.H.E.R.S. to find a place for a permanent foster. Joey arrived at the Slater’s home last July and has been with them ever since. He had some special needs as he had mutilated himself and had a large wound. With vet care, a proper diet and a collar to allow his skin to heal, he is much better. Shirley gave Joey an excellent start in life, she taught him to trust people again. She was his second home, the first home was stressful and fear caused Joey to harm himself. Shirley was invited to the March meeting to meet all of the club members and she spent the weekend reconnecting with Joey. “It was like ‘Mommy’ came home and he was so pleased!” said Diana Slater.
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ing to the concert and buying them.
March to The Festival for Waiting for the Parade Waiting for the Parade, is a series of 1940s – era vignettes about five Calgary women who strive to make the best of things, or simply make it through the home front during WW II. Bringing the powerful mix of emotions to life, director Colleen Winton deftly combines the play’s comic moments with its more moving and poignant passages. “Murrell’s beautiful play reminds us that the wounded are not always at the Front, and that heroes can be found at home.” says Winton, “Canadian women persevered through the war in an inspiring way. Our play reveals how they met their struggles with grace and grit (and some great tunes) during tumultuous times. At the Chemainus Theatre Festival May 9 to June 1, 2014. Tickets for matinee and evening shows are available online or by calling the box office. 1-800-565-7738.
Crofton Art Group is 60 The Crofton Art Group was established in 1954 by founding member, Mrs. Eloise Kearney. Now 60 years later the Art Group is still going strong. This illustrious group will be celebrating their 60th Anniversary with an Art Show & Sale on May 9 and 10, from 10am to 5pm at the Crofton Senior Centre, 1507 Joan Avenue, Crofton, (close to the ferry terminal) and will include beautiful original paintings, both large and small, together with quality eye catching jewellery created by their very talented artists. Join them on May 9 at 2pm for the Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the Crofton Art Group Kiosk by Mayor of North Cowichan John Lefebure. Refreshments will follow. Ian Hardy has been a member since 2001. He paints in acrylics and draws in graphite. The kiosk features a mosaic made up of scenes from the area that members painted from photos by Sue Bosecker, he says. Members are proud of their history as the oldest established Art Group in the Cowichan Valley. They look forward to seeing you during this event.
Ladysmith Secondary School Vancouver Island Concert Band Festival 2014.
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Parallel Players present award winning musical comedy
Musical hits right chord Ladysmith Little Theatre Society’s Man of La Mancha is shaping up to be one of the group’s best attended plays leaving the group to consider extending the show. The widely popular musical is the story of knight-errant Don Quixote, his servant Sancho, and the lady of his dreams., This amazing musical has been running successfully for the past 50 years. Translated and performed in many other languages, Man of La Mancha is clearly going to continue to capture the hearts of audiences both for its beautiful music and for the nobility of its lead character who “is either the wisest madman or the maddest wise man in the world.” Written by Dale Wasserman, directed by Mort Paul, the show plays until May 18. Box Office 250-924-0658, or online www.ladysmiththeatre.com
LSS Band to Musicfest Ladysmith Secondary School Band students are going to Musicfest Canada Nationals in Richmond BC May 13 and 14, 2014. To cover the majority of student travel costs they are hosting a fundraiser concert and silent auction on Monday May 5, at 7pm at LSS. Their goal is to raise at least $6500. Help support them by donating auction goods or com-
Ladysmith Secondary’s Parallel Players are presenting the family friendly, musical/comedy; The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, the story of how six young people in the throes of puberty, overseen by grown ups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves, learn that winning isn’t everything and that losing doesn’t necessarily make you a loser. Tickets: $10 for students/seniors and $15 for adults, available at Salamander Books, the LSS Main Office, and at the door. Runs May 1-3, and 8-10. Doors open 6:30pm, show starts at 7pm
YPDG’s Duet for Bench Yellow Point Drama Group (YPDG) takes its show on the road with three presentations of two short plays with musical accompaniment by busker Ben Ziakin, May 8, 9 and 10. In “Rappaport Redux,” two strangers from different social backgrounds negotiate their right to sit on a park bench. Starring Ted Girard and Barrie Baker, directed by Brian March, the play won best original script at the 2013 Vancouver Island One Act Festival. In “Ferris Wheel, two people share the bench in an amusement park. Starring Barbara Metcalf and Gordon McInnis, directed by Diane Faux. Performances are: May 8, North Oyster Community Hall, May 9, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery, May 10, Cedar Community Hall. Show time is 8pm. Tickets are $10 at the door. For more info www.yellowpointdramagroup.org.
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Innkeeper’s Wife (Lesley Lee) and Aldonza (Elizabeth Herman) are amused by the self proclaimed “Don Quixote, Knight Errant” (Bill Johnston) Photo: Mike Dietrich
Brian Buckrell Workshop at Crofton Art Group.in February 2014. The Group is the longest running Art Group in Cowichan clocking in at 60 years. Photo submitted.
Waiting for the Parade at Chemainus Theatre Festival examines surviving the homefront during the Second War. Photo submitted.
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Bill and Jill Molnar enjoy their garden, one of eight featued this year on the Garden Tour. Photo: Rob Johnson
Rotary Garden Tour Ladysmith Rotary presents the 17th Annual Garden Tour, Show and Sale, Sunday May 25. This year the selfguided tour of eight gardens is this year featuring a collection of both well-established and newly created gardens, including everything from rockeries and shrubberies to historic photos and heritage coal mine cars. For both master and beginner gardeners, it will be a day of discoveries. Rotary Chaperones will be on duty at each garden to assist you. Plan on visiting the Ladysmith Community Gardens (High St. & 2nd Ave.) between 1-3pm for ‘demonstration’ gardens and gardening techniques.Members will be available to talk with you about composting, greenhouses, raised garden beds, and other garden issues.
Local artists will be present at most gardens to enhance your viewing experience and answer your questions about their creations and techniques. While picking up your garden pass and map at the Aggie Hall, take time to enjoy the continental breakfast from 9-11:30 am for only $4. Also at the Hall local garden-related businesses will offer their products for sale and answer your questions from 9-1:30pm along with vendors displaying BC handicrafts. Gardens and Flowers, a slide presentation produced by Frank Elsom will run
continuously at the Hall and the Ladysmith Singers” choral group will be performing from 9:30 to 10:00 am. There will be a large local area map at Aggie Hall and someone there to help you plan your garden visits. This year, the popular raffle features three great prizes - two cedar lawn chairs, a brushed silver patio heater and a set of solar garden lights.
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The Rotary Garden Tour is a wonderful opportunity for gardeners of all skill levels to visit and admire gardens otherwise unavailable to them. Many visitors will benefit by finding fresh ideas and renewed enthusiasm for their own gardens. The tour has been carefully constructed so that there is ample time for you to visit all eight gardens. One of the gardens featured this year is Bill and Jill Molnar at 420 Parkhill Terrace. Molnar says the waterfall and pond are the main feature of this garden inspired by Agnes Pinkerton, who was an avid gardener. Molnar is also a featured artist on the tour. Show and Sale at Aggie Hall runs from 9am to 1:30 pm. Tickets are $15. All proceeds go to support Rotary’s many worthy projects. Call Ed Nicholson at 250-924-3402 or email kaixin@mac. com for more information.
Cut the bloomin’ broom A group of volunteers from Broombusters will be working during May to clear Scotch broom from Yellow Point Park in Cedar. Now is the time to cut broom! Late April, May and June are the best months for cutting down Scotch Broom. This non-native, highly invasive plant is most vulnerable when it blooms, because all of its energy is above ground in the flowers. You can help control this aggressive plant by cutting broom on your property and adjacent roadways. Cut Broom in Bloom! Broombusters began with a small group in Coombs witnessing broom take over valuable farmland. Their dedication and success controlling the spread of broom quickly attracted volunteers from other regions. Led by Joanne Sales, Broombusters works with local government to find ways to organize volunteers to remove broom where they live, as the pick up of broom has to be preplanned. Using long handled loppers, cut blooming broom plants as close to the ground as possible. The cut broom will most likely die in the summer’s dry heat. Very small plants can be pulled, but other than that, you do not need to dig up the roots. In fact, do not to disturb the soil, as doing so will encourage thousands of dormant broom seeds to germinate. Scotch Broom was originally brought to southern Vancouver Island around 1850, and has spread prolifically since then, overtaking fields, pastures, parks, roadways – anywhere in the sun. Broom grows rapidly and densely, quickly choking our gentler, native, indigenous species. Broom will prevent forest re-growth, as it grows faster than trees. It also creates a serious fire hazard because of its high oil content and it’s toxic to wildlife. Look for the dates of local cuts on the Broombusters’ website. info@broombusters.org 250-7222630 Volunteers could use a hand cutting broom. Photo submitted.
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Stepping into a dark but beautiful adventure There are so many ways to experience the diversity of our natural surroundings and find wonder through outdoor adventure. Night hiking is a unique way to explore forests, to observe from a different perspective and to marvel at the power of nature. To be quite honest, I had never considered night hiking before. The idea only came to mind when I happened upon a Facebook group of hikers who were planning a night hike on Mt. Prevost. Instantly I was intrigued. A few Facebook conversations on the “TAKE A HIKE Vancouver Island” group with Rick, the outdoor guru heading up the adventure, confirmed that we needed to be a part of this amazing outdoor experience. The part of night hiking that excited me the most was a chance to encounter the nocturnal animals that live in the forest. A beam of light into the thick forest could expose the beady eyes of raccoons, owls, moles, and bats that we rarely see during our daytime adventures. Perhaps even something bigger could be staring back at us. (No eyes were seen but that would have certainly added some adrenaline to the hike.) Night hiking significantly decreases normal vision. To compensate for that, other senses like smell and sound increase. Exposure to new wonder and amazement is experienced when hiking through the dark The stone monument on top of Mt. Prevost lights up thanks to a headlamp. Group photo courtesy of Rick Bronson
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forest. This and exploring a new area (to us) was enough to fuel my outdoor passion but there is more. Timing for the night hike was planned in January during the full moon, which adds a mix of shadows and a spooky element. As if that was not enough, how about throwing in the weather phenomenon known as an inversion. It was all these factors
coming together that made our first night hike experience unforgettable. That night a combination of warm air aloft and cold air sticking to the ground created a blanket of fog covering the entire Cowichan Valley. A short uphill jaunt from the parking lot on Mt. Prevost to the first peak unveiled a spectacular sight. Above us the night sky was clear, the moon was bright and the air was warm. Standing beside the stone monument and looking down across the fog landscape was a sight like no other. Mountains like Tzouhalem, Maxwell, and Maple, normally prominent sights appeared to be little islands amongst a vast fluffy ocean. Lights below the fog glowed up through the clouds adding a splash of color across the white canvas. There were seven adults on the night hike and every single one of us stood there in
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amazement and wonder. Ben and Liv were quick to realize that this was something special, stopping to take notice and appreciate the view as well. Never had any of us seen such a magical sight. From the first peak we headed towards two more peaks on Mt. Prevost where views of Copper Canyon, which was completely swallowed up by the fog, reignited our wonder once again. Our night hike continued on through forest trails that eventually lead us back to the parking lot. There was a bit of bushwhacking along the way, which is always fun, especially in the dark. The final touch to the evening was walking underneath a mini waterfall that thankfully, did not have much water flow to it. We have always taken precautions on our day hikes and backpacking trips, should we ever get delayed or are forced to hike at night, by carrying flashlights and a long shirt or extra jacket. Love that now we can add night hiking to our arsenal of outdoor adventuring activities. Night hiking is not at all scary or unsafe; in fact, just a few helpful tips will ensure an enjoyable hike. Scout out the trail ahead of time. A trail that is familiar is best and if possible, flag the intended route out ahead of time. Some public trails may only be open from dawn to dusk. Check regulations ahead of time and respect the rules. Consider night hiking in a group, never solo. Avoid hiking along steep cliffs, crossing water, or straying from the group. Pack flashlights, headlamps, glow sticks, extra flashlights, water, back up batteries and nutritious food. Allow for more time on the trail at night than during the day. Following these simple tips will put everyone’s mind at ease and make the night hike more enjoyable. My sincere thanks go out to Rick, Lisa, Paul and Tonya for welcoming my family and me to the hike with open arms. It was very special to have Ben and Liv treated as part of the group and everyone took the time to chat with them. Sometimes more than what was required. Follow the adventures of Jill and her family at www.onthebeatenpath.blogspot. ca, on Twitter @Onthebeatenpath, Facebook.com/Onthebeatenpath and on Instagram Getonthebeatenpath.
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Celebration – Patrons Of The Arts! Let’s take a look at the meaning of the words first… What exactly is a “patron of the arts”? One that supports, protects, or champions someone or something. A customer, especially a regular customer. What kind of patron are you? In large markets, the most “popular” music, which definitely doesn’t mean the “best” music, can generate large amounts of money based on numbers. More people = more tickets sold = bigger acts. But let’s talk about the market we are in. We would be considered a small market – community market – which makes our equation a little different. We have three equations that tell us the music we can get. Less people = no ticket price = local or beginner acts Less people = low ticket price = smaller acts Less people = higher ticket price = midlevel acts
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The first equation is describing a small venue that offers local and beginner touring musicians a place to play for next to nothing to give artists a place to start. This puts the venue itself in the position of “patron” to the arts. You have to give credit to a place that is willing to put their venue on the line to give startups a chance. This is where you might become appalled or blown away by the undiscovered talent. Flip of the coin every time. Next is the “cover charge” small venue. This is where music has a bit of a chance to shine… usually the artists have tested the waters above and have returned to the music scene because of incredibly positive feedback. At this level, the patronage shifts to a partnership between the venue and the audience. Audience members are willing to pay a few dollars to see the act again and support the artistic creations. Last, (but definitely not least in ticket price!), is the “ticketed” venue that only brings in qualified music. Music that is solely supported by the audience as “patrons of the arts”; who are ready and Ian Sherwood, prolific broken-heart. willing to pay quite a bit to support great music and pair it with a full evening experience that may include food or wine. All of these people from every level of patronage create a system of growth for music. Whatever level of support you choose – thank you for supporting music and the arts! Take a well-deserved pat on the back and keep helping bring great music to small markets! Venue: Ladysmith Maritime Society www.ladysmithmaritimesociety.ca Potentially one of the best venues Ladysmith could hope for, the waterfront views from the LMS Welcome Centre is perfect to take in an evening of food and wine. Take 5 Music Connection – Touring Top Picks Artists: Dom Fricot - Vancouver, Ian Sherwood – Nova Scotia Dom Fricot – www.dominiquefricot.com The Vancouverbased musician’s swoon-worthy baritone ballads and honest lyrics named him the third place winner in The Peak Performance Project and won him the Shore 104.3’s Best of BC award for September 2012. Ian Sherwood – www.iansherwood.com “Live at The Hive” is the latest musical creation from this prolific broken-heart. His energetic stage presence and honesty truly captures the essence of what has made Ian so popular with his audience. Cathleen McMahon owns and operates Mission Management Group www.mmgrp.ca and the Vancouver Island Music Connection www.musicconnectionvi.com
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Fair taxes for fair services Are you like me, a person who doesn’t mind paying my fair share of taxes to the Municipality to provide core service such as water, sewer, roads, etc.? We all know that the costs related to running a community like ours are going up and we see that there may be a need to raise taxes. What I question is why are so many costs of the costs not related to core services going up so much? In a recent issue of the Citizen it states that Lake Cowichan has announced that they are raising their tax rate by 3 per cent and the City of Duncan is raising its taxes by only by 2.5 per cent, while Ladysmith is talking about being just under 4 per cent. A four per cent increase doesn’t sound like much, but we have to look at the bigger picture. How much more will we be paying? When you get your tax bill in July it will be a lot more than 4 per cent. It will include not only the Municipal tax increase and an increase in your “parcel” for water, but it will also include an increase of 8.5per cent for policing, another 8.1 per cent increase for library costs. You will also see a 28 per cent increase your CVRD tax. This increase reflects the transfer of the costs for running the BC Transit system here in town. The increase in CVRD hospital taxes hasn’t been determined at the time of last request. So expect to dig deep into your wallet. I have no problem paying for core services, items that relate to public health, public safety and good roads. I question things like annual salaries for non unionized staff. Non unionized staff wages range from a low of $104,600.00 to a high of $175,965.00 (including benefits). Since 2011 the administrative salary costs to run the Town has gone up $232,166.00 or 26.18 per cent (partially because of two new staff position being added), while other have increased significantly. Some of our Town staff have seen increases over the past two years of 7.5 per cent, 8.6 per cent, 10.4 per cent and one as high as 15.4 per cent. It makes you wonder what increase in wages are projected for this year? The Town is in negotiation with CUPE and is limited as what it can do, as the contract will be influenced by other jurisdictions,
but the Town can control non union staff wages. The Times Colonist recently reported that senior staff of the Provincial Government will be getting an increase of 3 per cent after having their wages frozen since 2009. If the Town choose to freeze non union staff wages, think of how much we could save? Do we really need a $24,000 weather station to aid Public Works when we can just go to a computer and call up the weather at the Nanaimo Airport? Do we really need three new pickup trucks budgeted for $30,000.00 each when basic Ford F150 run closer to $20,000.00 each? The cost of operating the Town’s trolley has been eliminated and transferring that cost to the CVRD, (which is the largest reason for our CVRD taxes going up), and should free up most if not all of the $160,000 that was being spent on supplying that service. I have attended meetings of Council where the discussion revolved almost entirely on increases and more and more spending. I have yet to hear any of Councillors ask “is this really necessary”. It appears to me the only real question that Council is concerned with is how much can we raise taxes without having a tax revolt. Ladysmith has a larger percentage of seniors that make up our population than the provincial average and in 2014 they will only experience an increase in benefits of 1 per cent for their OAP, and less than 1 per cent (0.9 per cent) in their CPP. At the same time the Consumer Price Index indicates that the basic cost of living is going up by 1.5 per cent with as much as a 4.5 per cent increase in energy cost, and 2.7 per cent increase in shelter. These increases are hurting everyone across the board. They are hurting young families, single parents as well as those on income assistance. When was your last raise, and how much was it? Our community is hurting, lots have seen little increase in their wages or sala-
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ries, social benefits, be it child support or OAP, have not even kept up with inflation, yet all levels of government have seen fit to continually raise taxes. Here in Ladysmith I question the wisdom of spending our tax dollars be they federal grants, provincial grants or our municipal tax dollars on electric car charging stations, building a rarely used bike path for a short distance beside a sidewalk. Buying an electric car for the town and a expensive Hybrid SUV so we can say we are going green. Unfortunately, the green, as I see it is our tax dollars. On inspection of the provisional budget I see many increases in operating costs that I would like to know more about such as why has Public Works Operations (not capital costs) increased by 40.9 per cent from $421,000 to $591,000, and recreation programs operations will be spending 52.1 per cent more. What are we getting for our money? The town has to take a good hard look at what we really need. We need to prioritize expenditures on items that the public will achieve the greatest cost benefit from. At least that’s as I see it. Follow Rob’s discussion group on Facebook, As We See It www.facebook. com/groups/511361878972908/
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RDN - Area A Incinerator Potpourri – City of Nanaimo Votes 9 to 0 AGAINST BY ALEC MCPHERSON Thank you to all of the residents of the RDN, the CVRD and beyond who made their views known to local government officials on a proposal to build and operate a so-called Waste-to-Energy (aka a garbage incinerator) facility within the RDN. It clearly demonstrates that when residents get engaged in their communities and work together, they have the power to achieve outcomes that protect the things they most value about their community.
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I attended the April 14th 2014 City of Nanaimo Council meeting. Approaching the Shaw Auditorium I witnessed several hundred people outside demonstrating their opposition to an incinerator. Passing motorists were adding to the cacophony by honking their horns in approval of the signage. Inside the Shaw Auditorium there were already a few hundred people and I noted that staff had provided a video feed to an adjoining room holding with seating for another 120. As others moved inside, it was apparent that 500 or so residents had shown-up to voice their opinion on the proposal. The list of delegations who wished to speak to the issue indicated 8 opposed for each one in favour. Throughout the past ten months that the discussion has continued, a relatively small number of people have repeatedly asked that a decision be withheld until all the facts are in. In September 2013, the proponents provided local government officials and staff large information packages. This should have permitted those in receipt of the information to read it, consider it, do in depth independent research from the internet or other sources, and come to a reasonable decision on whether or not value would be added to the community; yet, three of the delegations that spoke at the April 14th Council meeting made the same “wait
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until all the facts are in plea”. Surely these people were not expecting Metro Vancouver to say anything unfavourable about the project. Still, based on some of the statements made both by those pro and con, I can only conclude that there were more than a few who didn’t take the time to educate themselves and to get their facts straight. For example, a frequent speaker at Council and Board meetings - rumoured to be running in the November 2014 elections - stated that we needed the incinerator as “the Cedar Landfill is scheduled to close in 2016”. Not true. A recent consultant’s report indicates that the landfill will not reach capacity until 2033 and, with a little more emphasis on recycling, could be operating through 2044. The claim also failed to answer what one would do with the 21% bottom and fly ash residual waste produced through incineration if there was no landfill. I was dumbfounded when the following speaker, a former provincial politician, concluded their statement repeating the 2016 landfill closure date. As glaring, on the following day a local politician speaking on a Victoria radio station, said the incinerator issue first came to light in the Fall of 2013 and that, subsequently, the RDN voted unanimously to oppose it. Really? The proponents first brought this issue forward in the Spring of 2013 and the RDN
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Board unanimously passed motions opposing it in both June 2013 and July 2013. The individual followed with a statement that, ‘The province has mandated that the facility not be built within Metro Vancouver’. What? The province only indicated that the search for a location not be limited to Metro Vancouver. I’m convinced that ‘kicking this issue down the road’ for another few months would not have improved the information flow.
CVRD - Area H Boundary Expansion Referendum BY MARY MARCOTTE At the Regular Council Meeting of April 7, 2014 Ladysmith Town Council considered and adopted the following motion: “That Council request staff to prepare a report concerning options for proceeding to referendum on the matter of the boundary extension application from TimberWest/Couverdon once the climate modelling for the watershed has been completed”. The motion carried unanimously. After receiving more than twice as many of the required 623 Alternate Approval Response Forms from the residents of Ladysmith, to me, this motion is an indication that Town Council may not be giving due consideration to the Ladysmith residents concerns. It appears to me that concerns raised by Saltair and North/Oyster/Diamond residents have not been fully understood or considered even though the proposed boundary expansion will undoubtedly impact them. The proposed boundary expansion was predicated on the need to own the watershed in order to protect the Town’s drinking water. This proposal was born to address outstanding issues related to the buffer areas around the lakes and creeks in the watershed as well as other uses that have the potential to impact the safety of the water. I question why this land grab proposal is being considered as a way of resolving those watershed concerns. At a recent conference, a session was presented on the “Private Managed Forest Land Act”. At that session it was stated that it is mandated in the “Act” that drinking water and community water supplies must be protected when forest activities are taking place. Would it not make more sense to have a signed agreement which provides a secure buffer zone and also allows timber harvesters an opportunity to harvest trees carefully and sustainably to ensure that the environment and the watershed is fully safeguarded. It seems that only council and the applicant believe that approving the boundary expansion and then rezoning the land for mixed commercial and residential development will achieve the objective of watershed protection. Many voters are disappointed by Council’s decision to move forward to a referendum without consultation or communication with all of the residents in the Regions’ most northern areas. The Electoral Area taxpayers support the Town in many different ways. We do much of our shopping, banking, and make other economic contributions to Ladysmith. We provide Town residents with local produce and other agriculture products. We support the Frank Jameson Centre with our taxes and volunteer at Light Up, Ladysmith Days and with other Ladysmith organizations. We donate to and support local youth groups. This proposal in no way takes into consideration the
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significant impacts on the adjoining areas and will ultimately disenfranchise the rural areas. I greatly fear that the ties that bind together the Cowichan North areas have now been frayed and, if the referendum is successful, may be irrevocably broken.
Chesterfield Sportsplex – The First Step Towards Imposed Regional Recreation Once again, the concept of Regional Recreation is on the table at the Regional District. Only this time, just one small step towards that ultimate goal is being promoted. That step is to provide region wide funding to the Chesterfield Sportsplex which is located in Duncan. Although the Regional District has a policy of providing “One Time Only” Regional Grants to selected applicants, this facility has been awarded grants since 2003. In spite of the Regional Boards “One Time Only” grant policy, the Chesterfield Sports Society has received the following amounts: in 2003 it received $500; in 2008 and 2009 it received $80,000 for each year; in 2010, 2011 and 2012 it received $100,000 for each year and in 2013 it received $146,500. This makes a total of $607,000 from your wallets. And this Board has generously approved, by weighted vote, $145,111 for 2014. All of this money has been funnelled into this Society without consulting with you and without going through a public assent process of any kind. This has been of great concern to me since the day I was first elected. Let me provide some background information for those of us who know nothing about the Chesterfield Sportsplex in Duncan or the Chesterfield Sports Society. The Cowichan Sports Society is a not for profit Society that was formed to build a multi-sport facility for the Duncan/North Cowichan area. The facility currently includes a track, 3 sports fields, artificial turf, lacrosse box, 3 ball diamonds, a children’s playground and a nature trail. The Society runs the Sportsplex based on revenue from donations, sponsorships and government grants and by volunteer activities. Everyone knows that donations, grants and volunteers are hard to come by these days. Hence the reason the Society
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wants to be put on the CVRD’s annual payroll; it would provide guaranteed long term funding. The Municipality of North Cowichan is especially interested in supporting the provision of long term regional funding. It is my understanding that the land and improvements will default to the Municipality if the not for profit Society cannot meet its financial obligations. When it comes to financial matters in the Regional District, decisions are made by a weighted vote system. That system is based on population – the more people you have, the more votes you get. For example, the Municipality of North Cowichan has 15 votes while I have only two. This may explain how the multiple “one time only” grants were handed out. After all the years of my opposition to annual budgets that contain multiple grants to selected applicants, the Board has finally decided that they may – or may not – conduct a referendum on the issue. The referendum may – or may not – occur this fall in conjunction with the fall local government elections. And it may – or may not – be conducted by voting separately – area by area or it may – or may not - be conducted in one big referendum where all votes go into the same pot and are counted as a whole. What chance will the smaller populations living in rural areas have to opt out of the aforementioned scenario? Virtually none! Regional Staff have prepared a power point presentation aimed at telling you why you should support this facility with your tax dollars. It has been proposed that community meetings be held in each area, and that staff present the power point and answer questions for those in attendance. They have also put a survey online for your consideration and response. Although a number of rural Directors wish to hold their own local meetings the majority of the Directors have deemed that the online survey is all that is needed. What I propose for this area is to attend local meetings of groups that exist in this area and to present the power point without staff assistance. This will provide an opportunity for full and frank discussion about where Area H residents want their recreational tax dollars to go; smaller groups will facilitate a better opportunity for questions and answers. I will provide
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sufficient paper copies of the survey for you to fill in at that time. If you belong to a Society or other group that is interested in hosting a meeting for your members, please advise me as soon as possible so that I can begin scheduling the meetings. I am also very interested in attending “neighbourhood” type meetings as well. If you are part of a group that wants information on long term funding for the sportsplex, please email me at mmarcotte@cvrd.ca and I will put you into the schedule if at all possible.
CVRD Area G Meetings may influence Saltair’s future BY MEL DOREY In the past month Saltair has had three public meetings that will influence the future of the community. Since 2007 there hasn’t been many changes or amendments to the Official Community Plan which was drawn up in 2005. The CVRD plans on reviewing the OCP every 8 to 10 years but with stresses on the system and excessive workloads of planning staff this will just not be possible. So we have to be content with amendments from time to time as needed in Saltair. Meeting #1 -Small Lot Commercial A public hearing was held to rezone the lot next to Byron’s store in Saltair from commercial to small lot commercial. The uses will remain mostly the same but will allow the development and sale of small lots that can be used for small businesses. One person mentioned that it would be like the Coombs market with an assortment of small shops. It is hoped that small businesses could locate there on an affordable lot in an affordable building. In order for the development to move ahead from here it will also need a development permit which will be put before the public. Meeting #2 – Allowing Site Built Homes In A Manufactured Home Park The Seaside Manufactured Home Park on Chemainus Road was decommissioned about five years ago and has been left as a vacant property since. The owner decided to rebuild on the property and has put in all new services. He was approached by local businesses to build site built homes on the property to create
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local employment. He had originally planned to have manufactured homes there but found that there are no longer high end ones being built on the island since the factory in Parksville closed down. That would mean he would have to order them from Seattle to get the quality that he wanted. That would also mean lost employment to local contractors. The second reason was that the neighbours to the property were overwhelmingly in favour of site built homes. Site built homes are more adaptable to the contour of the property and there is more variety of plans available. The approval of site built homes has now been granted by the CVRD and the project can move ahead. Meeting #3- To Purchase Or Not To Purcase Mt. Brenton School Mt. Brenton is for sale once again. This time the price is greatly reduced at $415,000 for the school and 5 1/2 acres. It was originally bought from the school district for about $650,000 and later went up for sale at $740,000. Because the property is zoned public institutional there is limited number of things that
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can be done on the property without rezoning. The school has had minimal use for the last 10 years. This meeting was for information only to see what the public thought of the situation. Various plans were put forward for possible uses and methods of financing. Of the 44 people in attendance there were some concerns raised about possible asbestos, roof renewal, heating system and operating costs. Of the 44 citizens there some 30 were in agreement to have another meeting for further exploration. There will be a second meeting in June to talk about the possible purchase or not to purchase. There are numerous options open so that it is not a simple situation. Hopefully we’ll get some clarification in June.
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The Lama Rama Ding Dong Does anyone out there harbour the notion that one day you might be, ah, discovered? You know, it’s a bright sunny day, you’re walking down the street, a flashy convertible drives by, brakes lock up, a Hollywood producer hops out, runs over, signs you up to star in his new blockbuster which for some reason needs a scruffy 66 year old guy, because, I don’t know, Walter Brennan is dead. Far fetched? Not really, look what happened to kale, one day it’s just another underutilized leafy green, the next thing you know it’s being crammed down your throat because your wife read in Better Homes and Gardens that your toxins need busting. Or how about llama manure, the latest Tom Cruise of the manure world? One day you can’t give the stuff away, the next week it’s featured on Oprah, at least I think that was the backside of a llama. Either that or one of the larger guests. All I really know is my wife wants llama poop and will accept no substitutes, so it’s off to visit the local farmer. I don’t know about you, but I’ve always found those who profit from the sale of excrement a little iffy. First off is their look of superiority as they stand in rubber boots with a full 18 inches of freeboard, while you hop out of your brother- in- laws’ new truck, which you borrowed for the occasion, into three inches of “YUCK!” wearing flip flops. Though they may look like scarecrows with their straw hats and funny bib overalls, and live on a place called Excrement Acres, Where Good S**t Happens, never underestimate a farmer’s intelligence. He’s the one dumping crap into the pristine box of your borrowed fifty thousand dollar truck, not the other way around. Don’t let their innocent façade fool you. For example, there’s no reason the manure can’t be stored behind the barn where the ground is solid. But no, it’s stored out front by the road, where it becomes painfully obvious you don’t know how to drive a truck in axle deep mud. At least you’re hoping its mud. Regardless, you’re stuck in it, and the whole community knows about it as they drive by, saying to each other, “Boy, I’d never lend Delbert my truck.”
“Though they may look like scarecrows with their straw hats and funny bib overalls... never underestimate a farmer’s intelligence.” But the cards aren’t all stacked in the farmer’s favour. The relationship is actually symbiotic. While you’re under pressure from your wife not to come back empty handed, oops, maybe better make that empty trucked. The farmer is under pressure from his wife to “get rid of this shit,” because the way it’s mounting up, pretty soon she won’t be able to see out the kitchen window. To further establish your relationship with the farmer it is necessary to demonstrate to him, despite the flip-flops, you are no fool. Sometimes unscrupulous farmers will try to trick people who are dressed up better than they are by substituting less desirable cow poop for the coveted llama crap. Since you can’t tell a llama from a guest on Oprah, this is an easy trick to fall for. Fear not, llamas are easily identified by a quick inspection of what is known in polite circles as their manure dispenser which shoots out easy to use pellets much like a 250 lb rabbit on laxatives. Manure fanciers call these pellets llama beans, which can get a little confusing come time for bean casserole. That’s why llama beans must never be stored next to the lima beans, although if you use enough chili powder, who is going to know? Llama beans are considered a super nutrient that will make even the most reluctant plant get up and stay up. That’s why some call it the Viagra of the soil. As one enthusiastic guy put it, “Llama beans rev up the soil for a springtime sprint.” To which I say, “How about we use your truck then?”
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Llama manure is prized for a number of reasons, one being it is not hot, and can be directly applied to your plants without fear of burning. This is because at the llama factory, each new llama must swear never to eat East Indian food. If a llama is caught ordering Indian he is immediately separated from the herd and is only allowed to dispense pellets on a non-combustible surface not prone to spot fires. Llama pellets are also prized for being rich in nitrogen. That is, rich in comparison to other manures. Compared to anything manufactured by Monsanto, well, no contest. In fact, if pushed, even Mr. Sprinting Soil will admit the pellets are more a soil conditioner than a fertilizer. Let me see now. One truck of llama pellets is equal to one small bag of 10-8-6. Humm. Llama manure can be applied to your garden in two ways. The pellets can be sprinkled on the soil, where their slow release format can kick in when it rains. Or a tea can be made, and after a day or two of steeping, can be sprinkled over the garden. Which brings up the question, if this is what tea tastes like, is it not time to change beverages? Personally, I think llamas are grossly underutilized in the garden. We’re totally neglecting the animal’s defining characteristic… it spits. If they were mounted on turntables and spun around, they could function simultaneously as sprinkler and fertilizer dispenser. About 100rpm should do it, double that for a larger yard. Though you’d think llamas would be basking in their newly acquired “superstar of the garden” status, this is not often the case. Llamas are prone to severe depression. As one large animal psychiatrist put it, “When you’re prized for what comes out of your backside, this is what happens.” I don’t think all this talk about using them as sprinklers has helped either. If you’re interested in something that doesn’t come out of the back of a llama, pick up a bottle of Thelema Mountain Red, $20, from South Africa. - Delbert is the co-proprietor at Mahle House Restaurant in Cedar. Read more of his articles at Slightlycorkedandmore. wordpress.com
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The Meaning and Magic of Wildwood BY BRUCE HEPBURN Wildwood is a 77 acre forest in Yellow Point which Merv Wilkinson owned and lived in from 1938 to 2011. What distinguishes this forest from others in the Douglas- fir ecosystem? To begin with the east side of Vancouver Island has less than 0.5% of the original Douglas- fir zone that has not been logged. Those areas have been clear cut. Merv learned from a Swedish instructor to follow European logging standards. In other words from those who knew well the harmful effects of clear cutting. His first cut was in 1945. He likely did some high grading or even patch logging for the initial cut but his forest practises improved over the years. There are areas of Wildwood with trees that have never been cut. These trees were left as seed trees or wildlife trees and serve to maintain the forest canopy. ‘The “good” forester takes the highest yield from the forest without deteriorating the soil, the poor one neither obtains this yield nor preserves the fertility of the soil.’ Heinrich Cotta (1763-1844, often called the “pioneer of forestry”). If Cotta can be called the pioneer of forestry perhaps Merv can be called the pioneer of ecoforestry here in BC because Merv adapted his methods to single tree selection forestry the soil and the forest ecology remained intact. The mix of large Douglas firs, with mixed ages of fir, grand fir, hemlock, cedar, alder, maple, dogwood and arbutus along with mosses, salal, huckleberry, salmonberry and Oregon grape is the stage upon which the mushrooms, deer, squirrels, pile-
ated woodpeckers, ravens, ruby and golden crowned kinglets and other birds and mammals live at Wildwood. The essential difference between a planted and “greened up” clear cut and Wildwood is the variety and diversity of other life forms. This vibrancy of life force is the magic of Wildwood. The meaning of Wildwood is its demonstration of true forestry. What often passes for forestry within our commercial industry is the theory and practice of deforestation. It should be more honestly described as “deforestry”. It resembles cornfield agriculture, replacing the richly diverse primal forest ecosystems that existed throughout the Pacific Northwest prior to the industrial clearcut logging of modern times. Thousands of people from around the world have come to tour Wildwood and learn from Merv and later from Jay Rastogi. Jay became fascinated by the wisdom of Merv’s approach to caring for the forest, protecting its character while harvesting only a portion of the “interest” it accrued. When Merv’s age prevented him from conducting the tours himself, Jay took over and has been doing that until now. Wildwood was purchased in 2001 by the Land Conservancy. The purchase was made with the intention that it was permanently protected as a demonstration forest and educational facility. Merv donated $150,000 from his share of the sale to TLC to ensure the protection of Wildwood and that he could live the remaining portion of his life in his forest. Merv died in 2011. Since Merv’s passing efforts have continued to welcome the public to come and learn about true forestry. The importance of this work cannot be overstated with so little unlogged Douglas-fir forest remaining in this area. Dedicated volunteers are renovating Merv’s log home so that community events and educational programs can be held in the house he built in 1962. The Ecoforestry Institute meets in the house. They manage the Wildwood forest. A new group called Friends of Wildwood was formed in July, 2013. Members of the public are welcome to join and partake in events and activities at Wildwood. Anyone wanting to join Friends of Wildwood can do so by sending $10 per person or $20 for a family to Friends of Wildwood, 2933 Crane Road, Ladysmith, BC, V9G 1C8. Jay Rastogi at Wildwood. Photo courtesy Bruce Hepburn
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G’Bye Ministry of Environment “Courage, my friends; ‘tis not too late to build a better world...” - Tommy Douglas, MP, Nanaimo Cowichan - The Islands, 1969-78 With the tar sands a proven polluter, climate change a crises in waiting ...according to the World Bank, and floating micro-plastic fragments disrupting our coast’s food chain, one might think it’s time to amp up the Environment Ministry’s resources and determination if we’re to save us all from ourselves. But I say shut it down. Goodbye Environment Canada, it’s been good to know ya! Let’s just stop fooling ourselves, admit that it’s weak and ineffectual, and throw that baby out with the bathwater! A bunch of scientists have been fired, cutbacks by 2016 will equal or exceed the $1.4B in subsidies to fossil fuel industries, and pretty much every river and lake is exempt from federal regulation. Why beat a dead horse? It’s time to thank all those who have worked hard in the Ministry, get rid of those research papers and monitoring documents that cluttered up the government libraries, re-commit another $300 million or so to government advertising - like we’ve spent since 2009 to remind Canadians about how much we love nature, and shut the doors. I mean it’s the economy, stupid. Right? There’s lots of land and water out there, too many public-interest groups reading environmental reports and sustainability
assessments, and not enough entrepreneurial endeavours to take Canadian’s minds off the larger questions in life. We need to get our priorities straight, invest in profitable ventures, and let the future take care of itself. Big business will look after our needs, and the market will respond accordingly. Bottled water is good for you, greenhouse gas emissions will make us all warmer, and we’ll adapt. As we always have. It’s time to stop all this negative boomer doomer talk, embrace our bottom-line instincts, make way for the strongest among us, and welcome one and all into the great and powerful twenty-first century! We don’t like taxes and we don’t want big government, so let’s focus on win-wins to be had. Like savings of $2.6 billion from some simple workforce adjustments, like cutting 5,064 jobs in 10 science-based federal departments. And like $100M annually saved by cuts to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, ridding ourselves of the burdens of red-tape and oversight, for example. Good-bye to endless patrols of illegal fishing, so long to scientific research that promotes conservation, or protection of biodiversity and endangered species. And let’s let industry decide if their out-
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falls and resource extraction activities might add even a miniscule drop in the water to coastal pollution. The GNP will benefit by toxic chemical clean-ups, remediation and rehabilitation, and there’s really nothing to worry about anyways. Nobody wants to wreck the world we all share. Evidence-based policy decisions by the experts will just have to give way to good old common sense, back-of-theenvelope inner-circle Cabinet preferences and lobbyists. We don’t want to be a credit risk and lose our triple AAA rating so let’s privatize, sell off government assets, trust our responsible resource sector and development interests to set the standards, and wait for the multi-nationals to come knocking at our door. Why dwell on the negative when the sun will come up just like it always does? A new day’s dawning, and we’re coming of age in a brave new world of our own making. And this is just the beginning my friends ...think what we can save when we shut down the Ministry of Health! Tommy Douglas would be proud!! Laurie Gourlay has worked with environmental groups for thirty-odd years, farms bee-jeezus big-profit agriculture products with as many chemies and pesticides as he can get his hands on, then labels it organic, and with life-partner coal-baron wannabee Jackie Moad, counts his pennies and good fortune whilst selling tobacco futures and running Thistle Consulting Services – seeking local solutions to global challenges, naturally!
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Birds pack knives Bird bills are like Swiss army knives – they may or may not be sharp but they have a variety of tools all in one. In addition to feeding they are used for nest building, mating displays and preening. Conventional wisdom suggests that a bird’s bill has been shaped through evolutionary history to match its feeding preferences. Even closely related species given enough time and available habitat niches will develop a variety of bill shapes – “Darwin’s finches” of the
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Galapagos are perhaps the most famous example. A quick survey of a bird’s food preference reveals similarities in the pattern of their bills. Predatory birds such as eagles, hawks and owls have strong, sharp and hooked bills well suited for tearing flesh. At the other extreme are the delicate hummingbird birds, which probe into flowers. (Some tropical hummingbirds have co-evolved with specific flowers so that the dependency of the flower on the bird and the bird on the flower is exclusive.) Digging grubs and insects from bark and wood requires the sharp, chisel shaped bills such as found on woodpeckers and sapsuckers. Oystercatchers feed mainly on bivalves and if they find a partially open oyster employ a somewhat similar chiseling strategy to access their meal. Birds which feed along mudflats have bills modified to suit their particular needs. Dabbling ducks such as the mallard have bills which function to strain
MAY 2014
plants, seeds and small animals from the mud and water. Diving ducks such as mergansers have serrated bills suited for grabbing onto slippery fish. Conical bills are found mainly in birds such as grosbeaks and finches. These strong bills are used for cracking seeds. Because of their asymmetry, crossbill beaks are perhaps the bill shape I find most unusual. Their curved pointed mandibles as the name suggests, cross and are efficient at extracting seeds from evergreen cones. (I once had a chicken with a crossed bill. She was always a little underweight and was the first off the roost to feed in the morning. Clearly crossed bills are not suited to a chicken’s method of feeding.) Slender, pointed beaks are typical of insectivorous birds such as warblers. Most warblers pick insects off of leaves and branches. Flycatchers, which are also insect eaters, catch their food on the fly and have flatter, wider bills with tiny bristles (modified feathers) around their bills. These bristles in effect increase the insect capturing area and helps funnel insects into their mouth. Most birds move only the lower mandible (bill), but in nature there are generally exceptions. Some waders such as snipe have this ability, as do parrots. Bills are made of keratin (the same compound as our fingernails) and grow continually and wear down with use. They may also change colour seasonally (l-r) Red breasted sapsucker Rufous hummingbird Opposite page: Barred owl Hooded merganser Blue Heron Photos H. Masata
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nificant role in the bird’s ability to thrive or survive. These new insights illustrate that thermoregulation plays a role in bill morphology, but also hints at the complexity of variables at play in nature. Little variations in an individual’s behaviour or habitat can over time have significant consequences. As a result of Greenberg’s study I may not look at two song sparrows the same way again. Knowing even a little bit about the processes at play in nature is exciting and increases my appreciation of nature. Jay is a naturalist and educator living in Yellow Point. ecoforestry@gmail.com
(and are thus used for mate selection). Studies over the last few years are beginning to demonstrate that in addition to food availability and preference there are other factors which act on bill shape and size. Ornithologist Russell Greenberg started thinking about this when he noticed that song sparrows by salt marshes had longer bills than song sparrows just a few kilometers inland. A few years later he used thermal imaging to compare the Atlantic song sparrow with the eastern song sparrow and found that while the sizes of the birds is similar the surface area of the Atlantic song sparrow bill is greater and that the Atlantic song sparrow loses 33 percent more heat through its bill. The thinking is that the birds bill acts as a radiator to shed excess heat without losing moisture as would happen with panting. In an area with little fresh water (like a salt marsh) or in a hot environment this may play a sig-
May 1-3
9-10, Mixed Fastball Season Opener, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 250-245-722-2422
1-3, “The Man of La Mancha”, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658
9-10, “Waiting for the Parade”, Chemainus Theatre Festival, 9737 Chemainus Rd. 250-246-9820
1-3, 10am, Discovering Departure Bay, Nanaimo Museum 100 Museum Way, 250-753-1821
9-10, 9:30am, The Nanaimo Pottery Co-op’s spring show and sale, Country Club Centre
1-3, 7:30pm, “Progressions” 2014, Malaspina Theatre Blds. 325 & 330, 250-734-1917
9-10, 10am, The Crofton Art Group 60th Anniversary Art Show & Sale, 1507 Joan Ave.
1, 7am, Oyster Bay Café opens breakfast/lunch
9, 11am, Community Event – Mueller & Trainers Choice, Pharmasave 441 1st. Ave. 250-245-3113
1, 2pm, 9 & Dine, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157
9, 5pm, African Marimba music classes, 7834 Tatlo Rd., North Cowichan, 250-737-1331
1, 7pm, Volleyball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd.
9, 6pm, Women’s Spring Dinner, Calvary Baptist Church, 250-246-9121
2-3, 12pm, Exhibit – Through the Window, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery 610 Oyster Bay Rd. 250-245-1252
9, 7:30pm, Ballet Victoria “Carmina Burana “Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St. 250-748-7529
2-3, 12pm, Gala Opening – Through the Window, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery 610 Oyster Bay Rd. 250-245-1252
10, 9am, Bayview Avenue Multi-Family Garage Sale, Bayview Ave. Ladysmith 10, 9am, Ladysmith/Saltair Garden Club Annual Plant Sale, Aggie Hall 1110 1st Ave. 250-722-0130
2-3, Men’s Fastball Tourney, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 250-245-722-2422
10, 9am, National Garage Sale for Shelter, Royal LePage 528 1st Ave. 250-245-2252
2, 5pm, African Marimba music classes, 7834 Tatlo Rd., North Cowichan 250-737-1331 2, Neil Osborne, Song Shelter, 250-668-3338 2, 9pm, Extreme Karaoke, The Sportsman Pub 640 1st. Ave 250-245-8033
4, 1pm, South Wellington Day, Community Hall 1555 Morden Rd.
3, Karaoke, Royal Canadian Legion, 171, 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273
4, 1pm, Dyslexia Seminar, ReSet Adjusting Perceptions 250-245-8412
May 4-10
5, 6pm, Women’s Spring Dinner, Calvary Baptist Church 250-246-9121
4-10, 12pm, Exhibit – Through the Window, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery 610 Oyster Bay Rd. 250-245-1252 4-10, 7:30pm, “Progressions” 2014, Malaspina Theatre Blds. 325 & 330, 250-734-1917 4, 10am, 6th Annual Hike for Hospice in support of Cowichan Valley Hospice Society 250-701-4242 4-6, 2pm, Golf, cart, burger & beer, Cottonwood Golf Course 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 4-10, “The Man of La Mancha”, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658 4-10, 10am, Discovering Departure Bay, Nanaimo Museum 100 Museum Way, 250-753-1821 4, Men’s Fastball Tourney, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 250-245-722-2422 4, 10am, Black Track Tour, Morden Colliery Historic Provincial Park 250-714-0377 4, 12pm, Irish-Celtic dancing classes, Cedar Heritage Centre 1644 MacMillan Rd 251-888-9421
5, 7pm, Artist Reception, Cowichan Theatre 2687 James St, Duncan 6, 1pm, Ladysmith History Seminar, LMS Welcome Centre 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 1-866-734-6252
10, 9:30am, Plant Sale, St. John’s Anglican Church, 314 Buller St. 250-245-5512 10, 10am, BC Healthcare Auxiliary Day, 910 1st Ave. 250-245-5225 10, 10am, Antique Addict 1st Anniversary Sale, 12 Roberts St. 250-245-6533 10, 10am, Spring Film Camps, Spotlight Academy, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-714-2555 10, 12pm, Mother’s Day Tea, 921 1st Ave. 250-245-2457 10, 5pm, RCL Branch 191 Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Action 250-246-3133
6, 6pm, Spring Film Camps, Spotlight Academy, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-714-2555
10, 6pm, Beer & Burger Night Fundraiser, North Oyster Community Centre, 250-245-2559
6, 7pm, Badminton & Pickle Ball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd.
May 10-17
7, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night, Cottonwood Golf Course 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157
11-17, 12pm, Exhibit – Through the Window, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Rd. 250-245-1252
7, 6pm, Women’s Spring Dinner, Calvary Baptist Church 250-246-9121
11-17, 7:30pm, “Progressions” 2014, Malaspina Theatre Blds. 325 & 330, 250-734-1917
7, 6:30pm, Volleyball, North Cedar Intermediate
11-13, 2pm, Golf, cart, burger & beer, Cottonwood Golf Course 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-2455157
8, 11:30am, Soup & Sandwich Lunch, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273 8, 2pm, 9 & Dine, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 8, 7pm, Volleyball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd.
11-17, “The Man of La Mancha”, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658 11-17, 10am, Discovering Departure Bay, Nanaimo Museum, 100 Museum Way, 250-753-1821
11-17, “Waiting for the Parade”, Chemainus Theatre Festival, 9737 Chemainus Rd. 250-246-9820 11, 8am, Cedar Farmers Market, Crow & Gate Parking Lot, Cedar 11, Mixed Fastball Season Opener, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 250-245-722-2422 11,8:30am, Cedar Lions Mother’s Day Breakfast, Cedar High School, 1640 MacMillan Rd. 11, 11am, Mother’s Day Tea & Cake, Hazelwood Herb Farm, 13576 Adshead Rd. 250-245-8007 11, Mothers Day Brunch, Cottonwood Golf Course, 250-245-5157 11, 12pm, Irish-Celtic dancing classes, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 MacMillan Rd 251-888-9421 11, 10am, Chemainus Garden Club Mother’s Day Plant Sale, Dayliner, 10445 Chemainus Rd. 11, 10am, Spring Film Camps, Spotlight Academy, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-714-2555 11, 5pm, Mother’s Day Dinner, Mahle House Restaurant, 2104 Hemer Rd. 250-722-3621 13, 1pm, Ladysmith History Seminar, LMS Welcome Centre, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 1-866-734-6252 13, 1pm, Chemainus Garden Club meeting, Calvary Baptist Church, 3319 River Rd. 250-245-2464 13, 1:30pm, British Columbia Government Retired Employees Association Luncheon, 595 Townsite Rd. Nanaimo, 250-722-3742 13, 7pm, Badminton & Pickle Ball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd. 14, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 14, 6:30pm, Volleyball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd. 14, 7pm, Employee Engagement, RCL, 621 1st. Ave. 250-597-1901 15, 7:30am, LDBA General meeting, RCL, 621 1st. Ave. 250-597-1901 15, 2pm, 9 & Dine, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 15, 7pm, Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club meeting, First United Church, 232 High St. 250-722-0130 15, 7pm, National Theatre’s “King Lear”, Cowichan Theatre, Duncan, 250-748-7529 15, 7pm, Volleyball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd. 16, 5pm, African Marimba music classes, 7834 Tatlo Rd., North Cowichan, 250-737-1331 16, 5:30pm, Dine on the Dock Friday, LMS Dock Welcome Centre, 250-245-0109 17, 9am, Pancake Breakfast, Chemainus Seniors Center, 9824 Willow St 250-246-2112 17, 9:55am, Met Opera Live: “La Bohéme”, Cowichan Theatre, 250-748-7529 17, Music Trivia & Pub Dinner, Royal Canadian Legion, 171, 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273 17, Mixed Fastball Tourney, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 250-245-722-2422
May 18-24 18-24, 12pm, Exhibit – Through the Window, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery 610 Oyster Bay Rd. 250-245-1252 18-24, 7:30pm, “Progressions” 2014, Malaspina Theatre Blds. 325 & 330, 250-734-1917 18-20, 2pm Golf, cart, burger & beer, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 18-24, 10am, Discovering Departure Bay, Nanaimo Museum, 100 Museum Way, 250-753-1821 18, Mixed Fastball Tourney, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 250-245-722-2422 18, “The Man of La Mancha”, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658 18-24, “Waiting for the Parade”, Chemainus Theatre Festival, 9737 Chemainus Rd. 250-246-9820 18, 12pm, Irish-Celtic dancing classes, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 MacMillan Rd. 251-888-9421 20, 1pm, Ladysmith History Seminar, LMS Welcome Centre, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 1-866-734-6252 20, 7pm, Badminton & Pickle Ball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd. 21, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 21, 6:30pm, Volleyball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd. 22, 12pm, Soup & Sandwich Lunch, Royal Canadian Legion, 171, 621 1st Ave. 250-245-2273 22, 2pm, 9 & Dine, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 22, 7pm, Volleyball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd. 23, 5pm, African Marimba music classes, 7834 Tatlo Rd., North Cowichan, 250-737-1331 23-24, 10, Giant Fabric Sale, The Doll House, Cedar, 250-722-3227 24, Shots for Kids, Juvenile Diabetes Fundraiser, Cottonwood Golf Course 250-245-5157 24, Camil Ladies Fastball Tourney, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 250-245-722-2422 24, Paddle Canada Level 1 Sea Kayaking Course, Sealegs Kayaking, 250-245-4096 24, 11am, “Parrots and their People”, 407 Wembly Rd. Parksville, 250-722-2201 24, 11:30am, Soup & Sandwich Lunch, Chemainus Seniors Center, 250-246-2112 24, 7pm, Dance – Dan Hughes & His Seniors, Chemainus Seniors Center, 250-246-2112
May 25-31 25-27, 2pm, Golf, cart, burger & beer, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 25-31, “Waiting for the Parade”, Chemainus Theatre Festival, 9737 Chemainus Rd. 250-246-9820 25-31, 10am, Discovering Departure Bay, Nanaimo Museum, 250-753-1821
25, 8am, Cedar Farmers Market, Crow & Gate Parking Lot, Cedar 25, Camil Ladies Fastball Tourney, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 250-245-722-2422 25, 17th Annual Ladysmith Rotary Self Guided Garden Tour, Ladysmith 250 924-3402 25, Paddle Canada Level 1 Sea Kayaking Course, Sealegs Kayaking, 250-245-4096 25, 10, Giant Fabric Sale, The Doll House, Cedar, 250-722-3227 25, 12pm, Irish-Celtic dancing classes, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 MacMillan Rd. 251-888-9421 25, 3pm, 1st Annual LaFFing Links Golf Tournament, Cottonwood Golf Course, 250-2100870 27, 7pm, Ladysmith Camera Club w/Sean Sherstone, Hardwick Hall 27, 7pm, Badminton & Pickle Ball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd. 28, Chemainus Wednesday Market, Waterwheel Park, 250-246-3944 28, 11am, Community Event –Lifeline, Pharmasave, 441 1st. Ave 250-245-3113 28, 5:30pm, Men’s or Ladies Night, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 28, 6:30pm, Cedar Community Association General Meeting, Cedar Community Hall 28, 6:30pm, Volleyball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd. 29, 2pm, 9 & Dine, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 29, 7pm, Volleyball, North Cedar Intermediate Gym, 2215 Gould Rd. 30, 11am, Community Event –Connect Hearing, Pharmasave 441 1st. Ave 250-245-3113 30, 5pm, African Marimba music classes, 7834 Tatlo Rd., North Cowichan, 250-737-1331 30, 5:30pm, Dine on the Dock Friday, Ladysmith Maritime Society Dock Welcome Cente, 250-245-0109 30, The Lion The Bear The Fox with/Dominique Fricot, Song Shelter, 250-668-3338 31, Slow Pitch City of Nanaimo, Wheatsheaf Sports Complex, 1866 Cedar Rd. 250-245-7222422 31, 9am, Spring Rummage Sale, St. John’s Church, 314 Buller St. 250-245-5512 31, 9:55am, Met Opera Live: “La Cenerentola”, Cowichan Theatre, 250-748-7529 31, 10am, Ladysmith Kids’ Pirates Day, Ladysmith Maritime Society Dock 250-245-0109 31, Annual Strawberry Tea, St. Philip Anglican Church, Cedar 250-722-3455 31, 7pm, High Street Coffeehouse/Open Mic Night, 232 High Street 31, 9pm, Diamond Dogs, The Sportsman Pub 640 1st. Ave 250-245-8033
MAY 2014
CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS HANDCRAFTED GEMSTONE NECKLACES. Jade, garnet, lapis, aventurine and more! $20 each. See jewellery table at Campers Corner Saturday flea market, 8am-3pm. 250-245-3829 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 SENSE OF PLACE YOUTH PROJECT LTD. Before and after school care, professional day care and SUMMER PROGRAMS! Nature based, emergent learning outdoor play balanced with indoor good clean fun! Lower floor - Bethel Church. Full and part time space available! www. senseofplaceyp.com pattitollefson@live.com 250797-2316 Lic#CDEN-97-JQWB GYPSY ANGEL FEMALE VOCALIST & ENTERTAINER. Sings for ceremonies, provides music, entertainment, equipment and/or DJ services. Offering KARAOKE for business/private party bookings. Affordable rates. Sample my music www.gypsy-angel.com 250-924-4924 SUMMER HALF DAYCAMP 1:00 - 4:00 at Cedar United Church in south Nanaimo one week only August 18 -22 Free for children 5 - 10 years. Enjoy games, crafts, stories, drama, puppets and friends. Everyone welcome. Phone Cindy 250245-5778 EDUCATION NANAIMO SUMMER STRINGS MUSIC CAMP August 10th - 15th located in south Nanaimo off Spruston Rd. Fiddle, Cello, Guitar, Mandolin, Keyboard, Classical Violin. For ages 6 - 96 Small groups for beginners, intermediates and advanced. Stay at camp or day-only options. Ph Trish or Geoff 250-802-8863 or nanaimosummerstringscamp. com . 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
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TAI CHI - For mental and physical health. Beginner class starts September and January, Mondays; on-going class Wednesdays. Both classes 10 am- 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 HARDWOOD FLOORING Does your floor need resurfacing, resanding or replacing? 19 years of experience in the Cowichan valley. Free estimates. For all your needs contact Dave 250748-7855 or hoppshardwood@shaw.ca ISLAND KING RENOS LTD. Kitchen-Bath-TileBacksplash-Countertops Flooring-Drywall-PaintSiding-Fences-Decks INTERIOR & EXTERIOR. Quote by JOB not by the HOUR. www. islandkingrenos.com 250-924-4924 WEEKLY OR BY- MONTHLY CLEANING for houses and offices, experienced, reliable and attention to detail. $20 per hour. References available. Ladysmith, Chemainus and Crofton. 250-246-4938 Jamie or Ingrid QUALITY RENOVATIONS Big or small. 25 yrs exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate call Lars 250-616-1800 AJ”s PLUMBING AND GAS Licensed-BondedInsured. Service-Installations-Renovation-New construction. Quality workmanship. No travel charges. Free estimates. On time every time. Serving Ladysmith, Chemainus & south to Duncan 250-802-7123
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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 GARDEN CLUB PLANT SALE: May 10, Aggie Hall, corner Symonds and Second, Ladysmith. 9am. until sold out. Great prices on a wide selection of plants, used equipment. Raffle at door
MAY 2014
with pet in your home and much more. As my love is yours! 250-246-3394 TOO CRAZY BIRY HOTEL home boarding for companion parrots, all sizes. Shuttle, long stays, group rates, your cages or ours. Preboarding visits welcome. Diana & Kip Slater 250-722-2201www. toocrazybirdyhotel.com F.E.A.T.H.E.R.S. Member SENIORS
THE HAPPY GARDENER. Weeding, Digging, Raking, Cutting back, etc. Mature and Steady Worker. Cheerful and Conscientious. Call David at 250-722-3599. I also do Window Washing and Odd Jobs
LYNN’S SENIORS CARE HOME: High Quality Personalized Care. Warm caring environment, Great food & snacks, Family events, Couples & Pets welcomed, Ocean views, Gardens. North of Ladysmith. 250-245-3391 www.lynnsseniorcare.com FOR RENT
LADYBUG’s MEW for Meticulous Garden Care contact “Farmer Doug” @ 250-713-9682. “I’ll get to the root of your problems!”
OFFICE SPACES Downtown Ladysmith, modern, reasonable rent or lease. 250-245-3395
NEED YOUR LAWN MOWED? Experienced local student, friendly & reliable with own mower & weeder, very reasonable rates, satisfaction guaranteed. Call Ladysmith resident Connor 250245-5518 MINI EXCAVATOR for lease or rent by day, week or month Reasonable rates 250 246 6624 PETS KITTY KORNERS CAT HOTEL - Purrsonalized Quality Kitty Care. Daily health checks, experienced with special needs kitties. Reasonable rates. Available 24/7. 2 km north of Nanaimo Airport. Take a virtual tour www. kittykorners.com 250-740-KATS (5287) HOME BUDDIES - PET & HOUSE CARE since 1994. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. Professional, kind-hearted, experienced & reliable. Pet First Aid and CPR Certified. Certified Security Professional, Animal Care Aide certified, VIU. For loving care and security, Peggy Wildsmith- 250-245-0151 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
APARTMENT FOR RENT Now available. Seniors 50+ 2 bdr well maintained 1000 sq. ft., newly updated cupboards, new carpet, repainted W/DF/S-N/P’s-N/S. Storage and parking. Ground floor. $800/mth + hydro, references. 250-245-4062, 250758-5816 LADYSMITH ONE BEDROOM BASEMENT SUITE - quiet. Separate entrance, private yard near creek. No smoking, no pets, $650 per month + $50 for utilities. Damage deposit required. Available immediately. References required. 250816-2395 FOR SALE GLENNA’S GARDEN GLASS – eclectic mix of oneof-a-kind up-cycled items. Bird baths & feeders, totems, lighting, decorations and dishes. Glenna 250-245-7010 or email Glenna@GlennasOffice. com 2005 CONVERTIBLE PT CRUISER Touring edition silver. Auto, ps/pb, $8500. 250-245-9165. WANTED VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Ladysmith Maritime Society is a vibrant community group whose volunteers restore heritage boats, maintain the marina, prepare meals and greet visitors. Join us and have fun. Contact admin@lmsmarina.ca
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