TAKE 5 March 2017 by Take 5 Print & Digital Media

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Letters Neighbours lending a hand My husband, Michael, who is in his eighties, and I (a child bride) came down with that awful stomach flu in January. It took six weeks for us to get over it. I know many people also came down with it and ended up in the hospital with pneumonia. In January, we had that heavy snowfall, and Michael did his best to at least try and keep the sidewalks cleared with his snow blower (we have a corner lot). Four of our neighbours very kindly pitched in several times to help us clear the snow, and even people walking by offered to help. Some kind soul even brought in our garbage cans. We were so grateful for their help and would like to sincerely thank them all for their kindness. Ladysmith is very lucky to have people like that, young and old, living in our community. — Linda and Mike Turner I want to say thank you to some people who have helped us through this snowy weather. Skye Ryan of CHEK news and Cranberry fire department men got my road frontage cleared of snow and ice that had accumulated every time the snow plow went past until I had a three-foot berm. Arthur and Bernice from Ladysmith picked up my groceries and helped clear my driveway so they could bring them to me. Lately, it has been the Encom snow plow driver who has steered the snow past my gate and made sure I could drive out. Then just recently Gordon, from Home Hardware in Ladysmith, valiantly plodded through and over a foot of snow to deliver two heaters to me so I was able to get and stay warm. A very big thank you for all these unsung heroes. Your kind actions were very much appreciated. — Barbara Schulz

Videos Really Do Work! Recently we received a call from Cathy at the Antique Addict, she was very excited to let us know about some customers she had in her store. A couple from Northern BC were searching the internet and came upon the take5newtv YouTube channel and watched the video on Ladysmith. They were so impressed with the sights of our beautiful community that they had to come and check it out. So they stayed in a local B&B, ate at

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local restaurants, shopped at our unique stores and followed the things to do in the video. They liked our little town so much that they are planning to move here! So the power of the video is strong and working for all of us. Thanks Cathy for letting us know. Check out our extensive video library at Youtube.com/ take5newstv - Editor, TAKE 5

Seal meat While the rest of the world is embracing vegan eating, at least one chef — who has added seal meat to his Dine Out Vancouver menu — seems to be stuck in the past. People around the world are rejecting Canada’s commercial seal slaughter, in which tens of thousands of baby seals have their heads bashed in or are shot. Sealers hook animals in their eyes, cheeks or mouths and drag them across the ice, sometimes while they’re still conscious. Within Canada, the slaughter has become an issue of government waste. With bans on seal fur ﬁrmly in place across Europe, Russia, the United States and other countries. There is no remaining market for the pelts. The government has tried for years to establish a seal-meat market in China, but to no avail. One study found that ending the commercial slaughter would save taxpayers millions of dollars every year. The Vancouver chef says that seal meat is “part of Canada’s food history,” and that’s where it should stay — in the history books. — Paula Moore, The PETA Foundation

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Water Filtration Plant In about two years, Ladysmith will have a new piece of key infrastructure to serve current and future generations of residents — a water filtration plant. This new project is central to two of the Strategic Priorities in Council’s 2016 to 2019 Strategic Plan — “Watershed Protection and Water Management” and “Natural and Built Infrastructure” — so we are very keen to get started on building the new plant. Although the impetus for water filtration came from Island Health (VIHA), a water filtration plant will ensure that we continue to provide reliable, quality drinking water for decades to come. This

is a big ﬁnancial undertaking for our small community, potentially costing more than $13 million. For three years, we applied (unsuccessfully) for various federal and provincial grants to help with the high costs of construction. Although we failed to secure this funding through previous grant applications, this previous “failure” ended up being a blessing. Last September, we were awarded a grant of more than $8.8 million. This

Stocking Lake. Photo: Town of Ladysmith

was by far the largest grant announced at the 2016 UBCM conference and came after 18 months of meetings with senior government staﬀ, elected oﬃcials and other stakeholders. Most importantly, the new funding formula in the latest round of granting resulted in additional senior government funding (about $1.5

million) for the project. This signiﬁcant investment from the provincial and federal governments will dramatically reduce the cost to Ladysmith residents and businesses. The Town’s share of construction (including contingencies) could be up to $6 million. After considering various alternatives, Council decided to borrow the funds over a 25-year term. Spreading the borrowing over a longer period more fairly spreads the cost to all users over time while keeping the annual cost to taxpayers lower. Even though we are required to build the new water ﬁltration plant, we must also get your approval to borrow our share of the cost. Under the BC Community Charter, local governments must seek voter approval for long-term borrowing. Council has decided to do this through an Alternative Approval Process (AAP). AAP is the process most commonly used by local governments in British Columbia for approval of borrowing bylaws. It costs less and takes less time than a referendum, and it is important to start construction of our new plant

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as soon as possible. The deadline for the Water Filtration Borrowing AAP is April 12. If you support the borrowing, you don’t need to do anything at all. If you are opposed to it, you need to ﬁll out an Elector Response Form (available at City Hall, FJCC, the Library and on the Town’s website). So why do we need water ﬁltration in Ladysmith? It’s important to point out that our water quality has not changed, but the regulations governing water safety and quality have advanced in recent years. Ladysmith draws our water supply from Holland and Stocking lakes — a surface water supply. For surface water sources, the BC Ministry of Health has developed strict guidelines for parasites, viruses, turbidity and treatment. In our regular testing, Ladysmith’s water has been found to exceed permitted turbidity levels on certain occasions. (Turbidity is the amount of matter in the water, which usually gets stirred up during a heavy rain). Fortunately, we have not had to issue boil water advisories, but it is important to ensure that Ladysmith’s water is reliable, safe and secure at all

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times and that it meets government quality standards. If we don’t build the water filtration plant, we won’t be able to meet the terms of our Water Supply Operating Permit. This could lead to significant penalties imposed on the Town. I consider the cost of building a new water filtration plant to be a generational investment in the future of our community. When the project is completed in 2019, we will have reliable, quality water to serve the needs of our community for decades to come. Along with our recently completed waste water treatment plant, we will provide stable, predictable costs to current and future residents, businesses and investors over the long term. This is another foundational piece in our plans to drive financial sustainability and support strong economic growth. If you have any questions about this or any other topic, please feel free to contact me anytime! mayor@ladysmith.ca, 250-245-6403 A full information package on Water filtration and the AAP is available at City Hall and on the Water Filtration page on our website www.ladysmith.ca.

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Campaign to help fire victim A campaign to help a Ladysmith victim of a houseboat fire is underway. Traci-lei Pritchard lost everything she owned, including her beloved dogs, when her houseboat, anchored off Slack Point, caught fire January 31. Pritchard had no insurance and was left with only the clothes on her back. Shirley Blackstaff is appealing to the public to help. Pritchard has contributed countless hours as a volunteer for various groups. She is a volunteer at Ladysmith Maritime Society and was a regular fixture on the docks. She removed old cables, derelict boats, debris, old tires and various kinds of junk from Transfer Beach because she wanted to restore the natural beauty of the harbour. This work was difficult, but Pritchard persevered. She had removed many unsafe and unsightly eyesores until she had the beach back to its original pristine state. Pritchard welcomed visiting boaters at the Ladysmith Community Marina docks as a greeter. She also helped beautify them by creating a lovely resting spot with native plants in tubs, decorative signs and varnished benches. Her love of animals and birds saw her sorting over 80,000 refundable cans and bottles donated by LMS boaters and visitors. All the funds (approximately $6000) raised in her four years of volunteer work went to the B.C. Purple Martin Stewardship and Recovery Program. Pritchard was also a hardworking volunteer for the Ladysmith & District Historical Society. She sanded the floor, varnished and painted the interior walls and ceiling of the old First Aid building in the Ladysmith Heritage Village, turning it into a lovely welcoming reception centre so visitors can learn about Ladysmith’s forest industry preservation project at the Waterfront Heritage site. “These were just some of the projects that Traci has been involved in,” says Blackstaff, who describes her as a kind

A campaign is underway for fire victim Traci-lei Pritchard. Photo: Shirley Blackstaff

and thoughtful person. Each Halloween, Pritchard would carve an anchor on a pumpkin and take treats to visiting boaters and moorers at the Ladysmith Community Marina. This Christmas, she acted as Mrs. Santa and delivered gifts to people living in boats moored in the Harbour. With the loss of her home and everything she cherished, including her beloved dogs, Stella and Texedo, “now it is our turn to give back,” says Blackstaﬀ. Gift certiﬁcates and donations will be accepted at Little Rascals Pets and Supplies, 416 1st Ave, Ladysmith.

Speakers competition On February 12, the Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron #257 Parallel hosted the Vancouver Island Wing Eﬀective Speaking Competition at the Aggie Hall in Ladysmith. The Gold Medal winner was Leading Air Cadet Jet Fedoryshyn of 89 Paciﬁc Squadron (Victoria). Doug Slowskie, President of the Air Cadet League of Canada/B.C. Provincial Committee, preDoug Slowskie with Gold Medal winner Leading Air Cadet Jet Fedoryshyn. Photo: Cathy Gilroy

sented the medal to L.A.C. Fedoryshyn. To ﬁnd out more about joining the Ladysmith Air Cadet Squadron, please contact us at ladysmithaircadets@yahoo. ca or call Cathy at 250-245-8119 for an information package.

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Open Table volunteers hosting monthly dinners at Aggie Hall. (Back row) l-r Lynette Wark, Jim Walker (Front row) l-r Nairne Culver, Sheila Weatherall, Louise Baines.

Open Table: An Outreach Program for community members in need when St. John’s Anglican Church in Ladysmith closed June 30, 2016, a small group of parishioners decided to create Open Table — their outreach program. “We serve up a free hearty dinner to food bank recipients once a month, usually on the third Friday,” says coordinator Louise Baines. “Last Friday was ham, scalloped potatoes, veggies and dip, salad, coﬀee, tea, milk, or juice and apple pie with ice cream.” That night they served 52 clients, including 12 children. Most dinners average between 50-60 clients. Cooking for that may is quite an ordeal. Main cooks Dorraine Baines, Nairne Culver, and Lynette Wark work along with three servers, and clients pitch in to help set-up and tear-down. Just packing in and out 15 bins of supplies is a big task but as Baines said “Ladysmith has heart. People here want to volunteer.” With the closure of the church, the dinners were moved to the Aggie Hall, and the group now includes volunteers from the Ladysmith Food Bank, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Oceanview Community Church and St. Philip’s Anglican Church in Cedar, Coats for Folks, and the Ladysmith Soup Kitchen. Baines also thanks the Town of Ladysmith Grant-in-aid program for their assistance, as well as Save-On Foods, 49th Parallel Grocery stores Community Cash Back program and Kiwi Cove Garden program. Donations for food and small prizes to give away – such as coats, blankets, socks, books and toys are welcome. And they could always use more hands to help with the dinners. Baines says she has seen camaraderie grow. “When we ﬁrst started people would just say hello in the food bank line up, now they are visiting, and are helping each other out.” Friendship has bloomed along with the community spirit. “Everyone has a very nice time at the meal. You don’t get a chance to go out for a dinner when you are on the edge,”

Coldest Night Of The Year Walk On February 25, the Ladysmith Resources Centre Association (LRCA) hosted the “Coldest Night of the Year” walk, a two- or five- kilometre walk in support of hungry, homeless and hurting individuals in our community. Funds raised go towards services provided by the LRCA. The umbrella organization offers many free services to the community. Programs, such as the Food Bank, Soup Kitchen, Extreme Weather Shelter, Christmas Cheer Hampers and Coats for Folks, help reduce the affects of poverty. For more information, call 250-245-3079 or email info@lrca.ca.

What will be important to you at the end of your life? “This is the question that we need to ask ourselves,” says Shelley Kuecks, Palliative Coordinator at Cowichan Hospice. For many of us, it is diﬃcult to think about the inevitable end of our lives, but thinking about what is important and talking about this with our family and close friends has a real impact on how this part of our lives is lived. Having these wishes recorded as part of an advance care plan can make a real diﬀerence to the type of care that you receive

The Fraternal Order of Eagles ladies auxiliary was pleased to present a cheque for $1200 to the Ladysmith Sportsmen’s club. Pictured here Madam Vice President Sheila Williams and Dave Judson Photo: Debby Baker

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Some of the walkers who came out in support of the Coldest Night of the Year. Photo: Rob Johnson

and your family’s experience of grief after your death. Cowichan Hospice invites you to join them on April 8, 2017, for High Tea and A Gift of Grace — a community game for conversations about your wishes for care at the end of life. Cowichan Hospice will also be starting another round of volunteer training on March 17, 2017, for those interested in becoming more involved. Please call Cowichan Hospice (250701-4242) or email (cvhospice@ shaw.ca) for more information and to pre-register.

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On February 16, hundreds of people looked up to the sky at the annual Rotary Club of Ladysmith’s Lantern event at Transfer Beach. Funds raised went to Rotary International’s “End Polio Now” Photo: Marina Sacht Watch video at YouTube.com/take5newstv

Mammogram testing

Get abreast of your health. A mammogram coach will be providing breast screening in Ladysmith in March. Mobile mammography screening will take place in the Ladysmith Community Health Centre parking lot at the corner of Symonds St. and 4th Ave. on Wednesday March 8, Thursday March 9, and Monday March 13. Please book appointments through the BC Cancer Agency: 1- 800 - 663 - 9203

Ladysmith Healthcare Auxillary members examine the CT Scanner at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. The Auxiliary donated $50,000.00 towards the scanner.

Kite Flying Event organizer Cherie Taylor demonstrates the kite she built to Cindy Damphousse during “Let Love Fly” Kite Flying Event on February 13. The first annual event got off to a soaring start at St. Joseph’s School in Chemainus. The day included build-a-kite instruction and entertainment by Mbira Spirit. Taylor said she was pleased with community response and support. Photo: Marina Sacht Watch video at YouTube.com/ke5newstv

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MARCH 1 – 4 1, 9:30am to11am, Muffin mornings, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 1, 7pm, Ladysmith Camera Club, “Panoramic Photography,” by Dennis McMahon, in Hardwick Hall, High St. at 3rd Ave., Ladysmith, www. LadysmithCameraClub.com 1, 7pm, Darts, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca 2, 7:30pm, An Evening with the Celtic Tenors, Nanaimo Port Theatre, 125 Front St., 250-7548550 3, 9:30am to 11am, Muffin mornings, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 3, 3pm to 4:30pm, Creative Drumming Workshop; 604-848-9543 or www.sacredfiremusic.com 3, 6:30pm, Entertainment by Lazy Mike & Dan at the Saltair Pub, 10519 Knight Rd., 250-246-4942 3–17, Waterfront Gallery, “Doors,” with guest speakers Grant Leier and Nixie Barton; 610 Oyster Bay Dr., Ladysmith; www. ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com

Ladysmith. Council encourages and welcomes your participation. Please visit the Town’s website at www.ladysmith.ca or call 250-245-6400. 6, 7pm, Cribbage Night, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave.; www.rcl171.ca 7, 1pm to 3pm, Senior’s Drop-In “Toonie Tuesdays” coffee or tea as well as delicious home baked goodies at the North Oyster Community Centre 8, 9:30am, Chemainus Sketch Group; meet up at Fuller Lake Arena; guest artist is Kerry Vaughn Erickson; new members welcome 8, 10am to 2pm, 2017 Cowichan Career & Job Fair, Ramada Duncan Conference Centre, 140 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan; contact Global Vocational Services at info@gvsjobs.com or 250-748-9880 8, 9:30am to 11am, Muffin mornings, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 8, 7pm, Ladysmith Legion #171, Ladies Auxiliary Monthly meeting; upstairs at Legion; guests are welcome 8, 7pm, Darts, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca

4, 8am, Diggers Antique and Collectable Show, Chemainus Elementary School; info 250-7267783

10, 9:30am to 11am, Muffin mornings, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org

4, 7:30pm, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre features the Victoria Symphony Orchestra, Victoria Choral Society, Victoria Children’s Choir, and internationally renowned soloists — Suzanne Ridgen, Michael Nyby, and Benjamin Butterfield; call 250-748-7529

10, 3pm to 4:30pm, Creative Drumming Workshop 604-848-9543 or www. sacredfiremusic.com

5 – 11 5, 2pm, Chemainus Classical Concerts presents Kara Huber, piano at St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus; tickets $20/$5, Adv$17; info at 250748-8383 6, 10am to 2pm, every Monday, Sarah in Stitches teaches Beginner’s Quilting at Jonanco Art Workshop; 2745 White Rapids Rd., Nanaimo; 778-269-2380 6, 4:45pm, Bingo Mondays, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 6, 7pm, Town of Ladysmith Council Meeting in the Council Chamber at 410 Esplanade in

10, 6:30pm, Entertainment by Sweet Potato Brown at the Saltair Pub, 10519 Knight Rd., 250-246-4942 10, 7:30pm, “I Am Woman, Hear Me Laff!” returns to the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre for comedic line-up led by veteran, stand-up comedian Laurie Elliott; 2687 James St.; tickets by phone (250) 748-7529 or cowichanpac.ca 11, 9am to 10:30am, Pancake Breakfast $5, hosted by the Executive, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 11, 7:30pm. Ballet Victoria’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Shakespeare’s wit to Mendelssohn’s playful score is transformed into a brilliant ballet comes to the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St.; 250-748-7529 or online at cowichanpac.ca

12 – 18 12, 1pm to 4pm & 7pm, TheatreOne’s Fringe Flicks presents “Maliglutit” (Searchers), an impressive Inuit take on John Ford’s Classic western; Avalon Cinema in Woodgrove Centre; tickets are $13; for more information or to purchase tickets, please visit theatreone.org or call 250-754-7587 12, 2pm to 4pm, The Nanaimo Musicians presents the NMA Big Band’s 50th Anniversary at the Branch 256 Legion Hall, 1630 E. Wellington Rd. at Bowen Rd; admission is by donation at the door with proceeds going to the band’s Scholarship Fund 13, 10am to 2pm, every Monday, Sarah in Stitches Beginner’s Quilting at Jonanco Art Workshop; 2745 White Rapids Rd., Nanaimo; 778-269-2380 13, 4:45pm, Bingo Mondays, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 13, 7pm, TheatreOne’s Fringe Flicks presents “Maliglutit” (Searchers), an impressive Inuit take on John Ford’s Classic western; Avalon Cinema in Woodgrove Centre; tickets are $13; for more information or to purchase tickets, please visit theatreone.org or call 250-754-7587 13, 7pm, Cribbage Night, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca 14, 1pm to 3pm, Senior’s Drop-In “Toonie Tuesdays” coffee or tea as well as delicious home baked goodies at the North Oyster Community Centre 15, 9:30am to 11am, Blood Pressure Clinic, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 15, 11:30am to 1pm, Soup and Sandwich $6, Fun with Body Moves class demonstration, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 15, 7pm, Darts, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca 16, 10am to 2:15pm, The Northern Games Challenge of the Champions Revival, Barsby Community Secondary School gym, 550 Seventh St., Nanaimo; 250-753-8211 16, 7pm, Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club monthly meeting, in the lower room, Frank Jameson Community Centre

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17, 9:30am to 11am, Muffin mornings, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 17, 3pm to 4:30pm, Creative Drumming Workshop; 604-848-9543 or www. sacredfiremusic.com 17, St. Patrick Celebrations at The Fox and Hounds Pub — Green beer and Irish food; check it out; 11 High St., Ladysmith; 250-924-1747 17, 6:30pm, Entertainment by Luke Warm Revue at the Saltair Pub, 10519 Knight Rd., 250-2464942 17, 7pm, An Evening with ELVIS, Ladysmith RCL Branch #171; doors open at 7pm; show at 8pm; tickets advance $20 at the door $25; limited seating; everyone welcome; 621 First Ave.; 250245-2273 17, 7:30pm, Impressions of Lightfoot, St. Michael and All Saints Church, 2852-58 Mill St., with support from Chemainus Valley Arts Society; $20 advance tickets at Rainforest Arts (250-2464861), 49th Parallel in Chemainus (250-2463551) or www.jamesmcrae.ca/lightfoot 18, 4:30pm, Ladysmith RCL Branch #171, O’Brien School of Dance will perform in the Legion Lounge; after the show there will be Irish (beef) Stew & a bun for $5; everyone welcome; 621 First Ave.; 250-245-2273 18, 5pm to 8pm, Birthday Party pot luck dinner, bar and entertainment, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 18–26, Waterfront Gallery Mediums, featuring the art of Gail Ralphs, Claudia Lohmann, Ruben Galdames and Anthony Cateaux, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., Ladysmith, www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery. com

19 – 25 19–26, Waterfront Gallery Mediums, featuring the art of Gail Ralphs, Claudia Lohmann, Ruben Galdames and Anthony Cateaux, 610 Oyster Bay Dr., Ladysmith, www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery. com 20, 10am to 2pm, every Monday, Sarah in Stitches teaches Beginner’s Quilting at Jonanco Art Workshop; 2745 White Rapids Rd., Nanaimo;

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778-269-2380 20, 6pm (4:45pm), Bingo Mondays, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 20, 7pm, Town of Ladysmith Council Meeting in the Council Chamber at 410 Esplanade in Ladysmith. Council encourages and welcomes your participation. Please visit the Town’s website at www.ladysmith.ca or call 250-245-6400. 20, 7pm, Cribbage Night, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca 21, 1pm to 3pm, Senior’s Drop-In “Toonie Tuesdays” coffee or tea as well as delicious home baked goodies at the North Oyster Community Centre 22, 9:30am to 11am, Muffin mornings, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org 22, 7pm, Darts, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave. www.rcl171.ca 23, 7pm, Ladysmith Ground Search and Rescue AGM, 340 6th Avenue, behind the Ladysmith Fire Hall; call Allen 250-734-1897 23–31, 7pm, Ladysmith Little Theatre presents “Absolutely! (perhaps)” by Luigi Pirandello; 4895 Christie Rd.; 250-924-0658; dinner theatre available; check our website for more info www. ladysmithlittletheatre.com 24, 3pm to 4:30pm, Creative Drumming Workshop; 604-848-9543 or www. sacredfiremusic.com 24, 6:30pm, Entertainment by Andy McCormack at the Saltair Pub, 10519 Knight Rd., 250-2464942 24, 9:30am to 11am, Muffin mornings, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org

26 – 31 26, 7pm, Ladysmith Newcomers Club monthly meeting; upstairs at the Legion; open to members and new area residents; guest speaker is Chris Gale of the Forest Discovery Centre 26–31, 7pm, Ladysmith Little Theatre presents “Absolutely! (perhaps)” by Luigi Pirandello; 4895 Christie Rd.; 250-924-0658; dinner theatre

available; check our website for more info www. ladysmithlittletheatre.com 27, 10am to 2pm, every Monday, Sarah in Stitches teaches Beginner’s Quilting at Jonanco Art Workshop; 2745 White Rapids Rd., Nanaimo; drop in fee $6 or free for Jonanco members; phone Sarah for more information 778-269-2380 27, 6pm (4:45pm), Bingo Mondays, Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 9824 Willow St., Chemainus, chemainusseniors.org. 27, 7pm, Cribbage Night, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca 27, 7:30pm, Chilliwack with special guest Jesse Roper (solo acoustic), Cowichan Performing Arts Centre; 250-748-7529 or cowichanpac.ca 28, 1pm to 3pm, Senior’s Drop-In “Toonie Tuesdays” coffee or tea as well as delicious home baked goodies at the North Oyster Community Centre 28, 7pm, Ladysmith Camera Club — “High Dynamic Range Photography,” with Brad Grigor at Hardwick Hall, High St. at 3rd Ave., Ladysmith; www.LadysmithCameraClub.com 29, 7pm, Darts, RC Legion Branch 171 Ladysmith, 621 First Ave., www.rcl171.ca 31 – April 12, Waterfront Gallery features the Student Show art from students; guest speaker storyteller Billy Thomas Seymour; 610 Oyster Bay Dr., Ladysmith; www. ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com 31, 6:30pm, Entertainment by Whitey Somers at the Saltair Pub, 10519 Knight Rd., 250-246-4942

APRIL 2017 1–9, 7pm, Ladysmith Little Theatre presents “Absolutely! (perhaps)” by Luigi Pirandello; 4895 Christie Rd.; 250-924-0658; dinner theatre available check our website for more info www. ladysmithlittletheatre.com; Saturdays 2pm matinee 12- 13 TheatreOne’s Fringe Flicks Maliglutit (Searchers), 17- St. Patrick Celebrations at The Fox and Hounds Pub 31 - Whitey Somers at the Saltair Pub

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Comedy at Ladysmith Little Theatre Absolutely! (perhaps) by Luigi Pirandello adapted by Martin Sherman is Ladysmith Lttle Theatre’s new production. No one has ever seen Signor Ponza’s wife and her mother Signora Frola together. Also, the neighbours have become suspicious because Signora Ponza never leaves her home and so they start asking questions ... Ponza claims that his wife is really his second wife, the ﬁrst having died in an earthquake that destroyed all records. Meanwhile, his wife only pretends to be Signora Frola’s daughter to humour Signora Frola, who, he claims, is insane. Absolutely! (perhaps) is a comedy on the elusive nature of identity and reality, and, like all of Pirandello’a work, shows truth as subjective and relative and dra-

Nanaimo Musician’s Big Band’s celebrates with 50th Anniversary Concert

ma itself a mystery. Runs March 23 – April 9, 2017, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Road, Ladysmith. 250924-0658 ladysmiththeatre.com

Pride and Prejudice opens Chemainus Theatre Festival 25th Anniversary Season The ﬁrst production of The Chemainus Theatre Festival’s 25th season is the timeless Jane Austen tale, Pride and Prejudice. The story, originally published in 1813, has increasingly fascinated audiences by virtue of its memorable characters, ironic humour, and dramatic themes. See the ﬁve Bennet sisters search haplessly for love as they confront the ironic expectations of Regent society, the incorrigible manners of Mr. Darcy, and many other men of questionable intent. Janet Munsil’s adaptation of the celebrated Pride and Prejudice appears on the Festival stage from February 17 to March 25, 2017. Tickets are available now at 1-800-565-7738 or chemainustheatre.ca.

Showing at Waterfront Gallery March and April Doors, March 3 – 17, 2017. Guest speakers are Grant Leier and Nixie Barton, sponsored by Betty Peebles and printing by Turning Point Arts. Mediums , March 18 – 26, 2017. Featuring the art of Gail Ralphs, Claudia Lohmann, Ruben Galdames and Anthony Cateaux. The Student Show, March 31 – April

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12, 2017. Featuring art from students. Guest Speaker is storyteller Billy Thomas Seymour, sponsored by Red’s Emporium. Current Threads 2017, April 15–30, 2017, featuring the Vancouver Island Surface Design Association. The Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Drive Ladysmith, www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com for more information.

The NMA Big Band 50th Anniversary Concert The Nanaimo Musician’s Association is proud to present the NMA Big Band’s 50th Anniversary Concert on Sunday, March 12, 2017 from 2–4 pm at the Branch 256 Legion Hall, 1630 E. Wellington Rd. at Bowen Rd. Admission is by donation at the door with proceeds going to the band’s Scholarship Fund. The NMA jazz big band is directed by Music Fest Canada Hall of Fame member and BC/Canada’s Marshall McLuhan Distinguished Teacher Award winner, Bryan Stovell. Norm Porter and Steve Jones, who each directed the band for many years share the credit for the band’s accomplishments and longevity. NMA alumni include famous Canadian jazz stars such as Diana Krall, Christine and Ingrid Jensen and Phil Dwyer. Band members generously donate their time to provide music scholarships to promising students in the Nanaimo community. The NMA band can trace its roots in a direct line back to Nanaimo’s Pygmy Ballroom of the 1930’s with its “sprung” dance ﬂoor that featured famous visiting jazz stars like Louis Armstrong, Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, Moe Koﬀman, and other popular musicians of the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s.

Kitchen Herb Recipes From The Garden I always devote one border of my food garden to growing a diversity of culinary herbs. Not only do they attract pollinators and beneﬁcial insects into the garden, they also provide a plethora of therapeutic ﬂavouring to almost everything we eat from the garden. Plenty more herbs (especially mints for teas) are grown in planters, pots and hanging baskets because culinary herb plants are very ornamental and aromatic. Instead of wrestling with confounding rows of seasonings and sauces in the supermarket, I make the most of what I am

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Sage, chamomile, raspberry leaves, rose hips and lemon verbena provide ingredients for a host of delicious eats and drink.

growing in my garden, as I consider these flavourings to be medicinally beneficial to my health as well. Just consider the herb sweet marjoram, which contains powerful compounds like ursolic acid, carvacrol and thymol, very high on the ORAC scale, a measurement of the antioxidant power of different foods. Marjoram also triggers the release of pepsin, a proteindigesting enzyme found in gastric juice. Marjoram increases pepsin production by 30 per cent. Marjoram is also a mild

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blood thinner, so it could reduce platelet aggregation similar to aspirin. I produce plentiful harvests of leaves, flowers, stems, roots and seeds for kitchen use throughout the growing season, which includes enough to dry for the winter season. Essential oil concentrate is said to be highest in the morning, after the dew has dried off the plant; this is the best time to harvest as it is these oils that give flavour to herbs. Herbs need to be dried gradually at cooler temperatures to protect these essential oils, never fast dried in full sun. My preferred method of drying is to use a clothes rack in the greenhouse, where warm air flows through all summer. I pick fresh young shoots about six inches (15 cm) long, and tie them together in small bunches. To capture the essential oils, I put these bunches inside a brown paper bag and hang the bag on the drying rack. After a few days, the dried herbs are ready to store in airtight jars in a dark place, which prevents deterioration from light. The following recipes are two of my favourite ways of using fresh or dried herbs from the garden.

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Greek oregano, garlic cloves, hot peppers and peppercorns. The easiest way to make bouquet garni is by using cheesecloth. Gather the herbs and spices you want to use and place them in the centre of a square of cheesecloth. Cut to ﬁt and gather up the edges of the cheesecloth with the herbs inside, and tie the neck tightly using some cotton string. Place the sachet of bouquet garni into the recipe at the beginning of cooking and let it remain until the dish is done.

Veggie Butter Use veggie butter to liven up crackers, sandwiches, wraps, vegetables, omelettes, baked potatoes, pasta and fish dishes — it’s really wonderful stuff! 1 cup (250 gr) butter, unsalted 1 Tbsp. (15 mL) tomato paste Add to the bowl of a food processor. Add any of the following to make veggie butter to your taste: 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 tsp. (10 mL) chives, finely chopped 2 green onions, chopped 2 tsp. (10 mL) dill leaves 2 tsp. (10 mL) basil leaves 2 tsp. (10 mL) Greek oregano 2 tsp. (10 mL) sweet marjoram 2 tsp. (10 mL) parsley leaves 2 tsp. (10mL) thyme leaves Blend into a smooth consistency. Spoon the veggie butter into glass storage dishes or ramekins, and store in the fridge until use. Bouquet Garni Introduce the subtle flavours of woody perennial herbs to homemade meals and soups with homemade bouquet garni. Most bouquet garni include parsley, thyme and a bay leaf. Bouquet garni may also include rosemary, savory, sweet marjoram,

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MARCH 2017

Women hunters BY MARINA SACHT Shelley Robinson is an attractive, married 29-year-old mother of a five and six-year-old. She operates her business Shelly’s Nails from her Ladysmith home. But when she dons her camo gear and heads for the wilderness armed with a crossbow and a compound bow, she is deadly. Shelley is a part of a growing number of women who have started hunting. “I do nails for a living and hunt as a hobby and to provide for my family.” They use all the meat that she harvests. “All kinds of women are doing this,” she says. A growing number of women are “heading into the direction of hunting and doing things for themselves, and living off the land,” she says. “I had no intention of harvesting any animals until I took the CORE [Conservation Outdoor Recreation Education] course taught by David Judson. That’s when I realized how ethical everything should be. I was really intrigued by it.” Although she got her Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL), which is her firearm licence at the same time, she prefers to shoot with the bow because its quieter. Shelley’s first hunting season was in the fall of 2015. “A friend was helping me and teaching me everything I needed to know about hunting deer on the island. That’s when I shot my first deer, took it home and skinned it.” The venison was a hit with the kids. “It’s a really lean meat, very flavourful

Shelley Robinson is one of the growing group of women hunters. Photo: Marina Sacht

“A growing number of women are heading into the direction of hunting and doing things for themselves, and living oﬀ the land” and delicious. We got roasts and pepperoni out of that.” The health beneﬁts to game meat are many. Game meat is leaner and does not contain hormones, steroids, antibiotics or other additives. Deer is a good replacement for beef. An ethical hunter has a deep respect and appreciation for the animal and for the wilderness. Many hunters volunteer with outdoor clean ups and salmon enhancement programs. Shelley also prefers to use the crossbow for hunting “because I’m a lot more steady with that and get a more ethical shot.” The compound bow was given to her

by a friend. “I love to shoot this thing — it’s so accurate and it’s light, making it ideal for competitions,” she says. Even though she’s only been to one competition, she is hooked and planning to do more this year. Shelley took a break this year from hunting. She ate “tag soup,” which means she didn’t get anything, but she did try. “Every year, you may not be successful, but that doesn’t matter because it’s really the experience. You learn new things every single time you go out. I’m just beginning, but now it’s part of my lifestyle. And I hope to teach my children how to do the same one day.” If you would like more information on the next Conservation Outdoor Recreation Education (CORE) program, contact Dave Judson from the Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club to register, 250-2453690 or through Facebook. The next Canadian ﬁrearms non-restricted safety course is March 25, 2017.

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Pot shops in town? Are you one of the many who complain about what’s happening in Town, but don’t take the opportunity to express your views and concerns to Council when you have an opportunity to do so? For example, what do you think about the idea of marijuana dispensaries in Ladysmith? Do you think they should be allowed or not? Council is oﬀering you the opportunity to express your view on this issue at a public hearing on March 6, at 7:00 p.m., at City Hall. At that time, Council will be considering an amendment to a bylaw that will prohibit the sale of marijuana products in town. According to Felcity Adams, director of Development Services, this amendment “is to demonstrate in no uncertain terms that the Town of Ladysmith strongly discourages marijuana dispensaries from opening in Ladysmith, as they have been doing in neighbouring communities.” Personally, I don’t have a strong position on the question of the use of marijuana, as I understand only some of the pros and cons of the issue, but I can see things are going to change. Today, the sale and recreational use of marijuana is illegal, and the medical applications are limited to mail orders from authorized dispensaries. Our federal government

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has indicated that they are about to legalize marijuana use. Once marijuana is legalized, our council will be faced with many issues as relating to how it will handle the situation. Council will have to develop plans, such as what zones it can be sold in, what restrictions should be placed on its use in public places and around schools and other places that children are present. These are just a few of the many issues they will have to address after marijuana is legalized.

How do you feel about the idea of marijuana dispensaries in Ladysmith? Council is trying to address the present issue regarding medical dispensaries, and their desire to locate here in Ladysmith. Members of council are being asked to vote on amending a bylaw that defines “retail sales” as the sale of goods, wares, or merchandise to the general public for final consumption. Such sales do not include building supply sales, marijuana retail sales, wholesale sales, liquor retail sales .... This amendment will prohibit the sale of marijuana anywhere in town. I question the value of this amendment because the town already has a business license bylaw that can control the types of business operations. This business license bylaw can impose penalties upon non-complying businesses. Also, the sale of marijuana is illegal, and the criminal code of Canada and the RCMP address the sale of illegal substances. So, I ask why do we need this amendment and why are we wasting the Council and staff’s time on this issue, especially when it will very likely be brought back to the table after mari-

juana becomes legalized? If you have a view on this issue that you are willing to share with Council, then attend the public meeting on March 6 at City Hall and be heard. If you plan to attend the hearing, I strongly suggest that you notify City Hall of your intent, as Council Chambers can only hold up to 25 members of the general public, and it may have to be relocated to a larger hall. At least, that’s as I see it.

Alec McPherson’s column will return next month.

CVRD Area H (North Oyster, Diamond) Town of Ladysmith Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission In the last edition of the TAKE 5 Magazine, I mentioned that the Town of Ladysmith had made some changes in their Parks & Recreation Commission. The commission is now called the “Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Commission.” The recent changes provided for representation on the advisory commission from Areas G and H residents. As the director for the North Oyster/ Diamond area, I invited Area H residents who were interested in sitting on the Ladysmith Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Commission to submit their name and a short bio to me. Only two residents submitted their names for consideration. Both of the candidates have had experience serving on the Area H Parks Commission and have shown their dedication to this community. I want to thank both of them for putting their names forward. It is always diﬃcult to make this kind of decision.

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I am pleased to announce that Bruce Mason, the current chair of the North Oyster/Diamond Parks Commission, has agreed to represent this area on the Town’s Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Commission. Bruce currently resides in North Oyster/Diamond and also has property in Ladysmith. I am confident that Bruce will represent this area very well. CVRD Regional Recreation Select Committee As you may know, the CVRD has a number of recreational facilities that are owned and operated by the different municipal and electoral area jurisdictions. Because the aging facilities are expensive to operate and maintain, there has been a move to consolidate all of the facilities under one umbrella. Consolidating the facilities has been attempted many times over the years without success. To this end, the Regional District Board has appointed a select committee to explore the options for regional recreation. This committee has been meeting since 2016 to find a solution that makes sense and is equitable to all jurisdictions. The committee has made a commitment to have a rigorous public engagement process for obtaining input from you on this very contentious issue. I encourage all of you to take the time

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to provide your input when this process is initiated. I will keep you informed as the process moves forward. 2017 Island Agricultural Show The 2017 Island Agricultural Show was held on Friday, February 3, and Saturday, February 4, in Port Alberni. Although the show encountered some challenges with the abundant snowfall, which prevented some of the presenters and delegates from getting to Port Alberni, the show was deemed to be a successful endeavour and very worthwhile. Some of the sessions dealt with water and climate change, food testing and food for bees, organic regulations update, cultivating community and a session on the seafood sector. The trade show included a wide variety of booths, showcasing diﬀerent products. Of course, the heavy equipment was on display by the farm equipment vendors. School children were bussed in to see what farming is all about. British Columbia’s Lieutenant Governor Judith Guichon opened the show along with several other dignitaries. A number of familiar faces from the Cowichan Valley were present. The 2018 Island Agricultural Show will be held at the Cowichan Exhibition Grounds. I look forward to seeing you there next year.

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CVRD Area G (Saltair) Utility Review And Assessment The Water Management Division of the CVRD contracted the Innova Group Company, from the Lower Mainland, to do a $82,000 review of the 35 CVRD sewer and water utilities. They did extensive interviews with the utility staff and directors as well as the public. They also spoke to the health department, medical health officer and provincial staff. In addition, they consulted several studies that have been done over the years from far and wide on water systems. The findings are now available to be acted on, and a plan will be put in place to bring all the utilities up to standard. The finalized report will be put on the CVRD website. In general, the water systems are grossly underfunded, and to be brought up to standard and be sustainable, water rates will have be increased. Each utility was given a rating out of 10. Saltair was given a rating of seven out of 10. Only three new utilities were given a 10 out of 10. The Saltair Water System has been identified as having too high and too low of pressure and cement/ asbestos pipes that have to replaced as well as requires looping necessary for proper circulation. There also will, at some time, have to be a water filtration plant installed to filter the water. The water is already chlorinated, UV treated and tested twice a week at nine locations to ensure high quality water. But with the new

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Health Authority Regulations 4-3-2-1-0, there is a blanket regulation that all surface water will have to be treated, regardless of the quality. Saltair gets its water from Stocking Lake along with Ladysmith. Ladysmith and Saltair could combine their plants into one to save money. The report also recommends that the two utilities combine into one utility managed by one management entity. In general, the bigger the utility the cheaper the rates. Sale Of Water Board Property Delayed The sale of the water board property has been delayed until there can be a public meeting to make the residents aware of the details of the situation. According to the water department, the property is no longer needed for the utility to operate, and they are not interested in managing or maintaining the property as a vacant lot with the old shop. It is excess to their needs. If the property is sold for say $150,000 to $200,000, that money will go back into the water budget to be used towards our upgrade program of the Saltair Water System. The property will have be rezoned if it is sold as residential. If someone builds a house on the property, then the CVRD will collect taxes, say $2,000 to $3,000 per year. Not all the taxes will go to Saltair budgets, but some will. So the question arises, is it better to sell it or is there a future use for it? Parks Commissions Review All the CVRD Parks Commissions are under review as are all the diďŹ&#x20AC;erent commissions at the CVRD. There was a fear that there would be some lost autonomy at the local level of our local parks. The plan has gone back to the staďŹ&#x20AC; and the Electoral Services Committee for another look. It is planned to retain the things that are working well with the committees and improve things that could be better. The bylaw governing parks committees is very ancient and certainly needs to be reviewed for the current situation and to comply with current legislation. There will be a meeting of all parks commission chairs, electoral directors and staďŹ&#x20AC; to sort out all the issues. The current parks commissions will have their commission time term extended until December 31, 2017, to allow for an easy transition. The Saltair Parks Commission is very vital to our community and has done tremendous work over the years. They make Saltair a special place.

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Salish Sea could be BC’s next World Heritage Site A group of residents have made an application to make the Salish Sea a UNESCO World Heritage Site. “The Salish Sea is a cornerstone of British Columbia’s heritage,” said Cedar resident Laurie Gourlay, director and founder of the Salish Sea Trust. “It is a living, breathing piece of our heritage. It simultaneously tells the story of our natural, cultural and economic histories, and with the support of British Columbians, we can make sure it stays that way.” The Salish Sea Trust non-proﬁt organization has partnered with Sea Legacy cofounders and National Geographic photojournalists Paul Nicklen and Cristina Mittermeier to rally public support for the application championing outstanding universal value for what is the backyard of 3.5 million Canadians. The public has until Earth Day (April 22) to submit feedback on WHS proposal to recognize the Salish Sea as a World Heritage Site. “Between now and Earth Day (April 22), we are inviting residents, neighbours, and friends of the Salish Sea to visit www.wearethesalishsea.eco to join us in expressing their admiration for this universal treasure,” said Mittermeier over the phone from Antarctica, where she is on assignment for National Geographic. You can support this by signing on to designate the Salish Sea a World Heritage Site or do one better and write your own letter. Every expression of support makes the application stronger.” “Any organization or individual interested in learning more about this initiative is invited to contact us as soon as possible,” said Gourlay. “If you have questions, concerns or want to get involved, please visit www.wearethesalishsea.eco to get in touch.”

Morgan McKenzie, Ladysmith Vice-Ambassador; Ambassador Brittney Webber and Chantal Lofstrom, Ladysmith Vice-Ambassador; along with 2017 Ambassador candidates spent time on Feb. 16th showing the Canadian flag and welcoming drivers to Ladysmith at the north entrance to the community. Photo: Duck Paterson

Ladysmith Ambassador’s The Ambassador Program is hosting a fundraiser beverage and burger evening on Friday, March 10 at Cottonwood Golf Course. The program works with Ladysmith youth to help them mature in both personal development as well as learning about their community. The program includes public speaking, taught by the Toastmasters organizations, as well as courses in local history, interpersonal skills and an opportunity to work and cooperate with others. Since last October eight Ambassador candidates have been meeting every Thursday, as well as participating in many community events, to further their knowledge of community and volunteerism. The Ambassadors travelled to Vernon, the beginning of February, to participate in their annual Winter Festival. On Feb. 17, 18 and 19 two of the Ambassadors went to the Hyak Festival and Coronation in New Westminster. These trips are an opportunity for the Ladysmith Ambassadors to talk about their community and spread the knowledge that they learned while taking the program. The March 10 beverage and burger starts at 6 pm, tickets are $20 a person. It is also the opportunity for candidate sponsors to meet the candidates and one of the last times the 2016 Ambassadors have to thank the sponsors as well. There are also silent auction and

other events. Tickets are available at the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce, L.C.U. Insurance or from any of the Ambassador Candidates or by calling 250-245-2263

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MARCH 2017

Opioid crisis hits home BY WARREN WHYTE By now readers may recognize this figure as the number of drug overdose deaths reported in B.C. in 2016, up from 510 in 2015 and 211 in 2010 (B.C. Coroner’s Report). The increase in deaths can largely be attributed to the recent influx of the synthetic opioid drug fentanyl; however, this epidemic is not limited merely to the Greater Vancouver area. Temporarily serving as the Medical Health Officer for Central Vancouver Island, Dr. Charmaine Enns said, “We know that the drug impact is real and alive on Vancouver Island, and it would be naive for us to think it’s not affecting our smaller communities.” In fact, the same Coroner’s Report cited the amount of overdose deaths in Central Vancouver Island in 2016 as 57, up from 30 in 2015 and six in 2010. Lifetime Ladysmith resident and recovering addict Katrina Brown said, “Ladysmith has been struggling with the fentanyl crisis. We have seen three overdose deaths affect this community within the past six months, two of which happened on the same weekend.” She continued, “It isn’t just happening to long-time users, but also casual and sometimes first time users, including the ones who are struggling to put an end to their addiction.” The crisis also hit home locally with Nanaimo comedian and Chaplain Seth Perry, who described how he helped revive an overdosed man on the seawall recently. “It broke my heart that people were walking by not knowing what was going on. My fiancée has seen two overdoses in 30 days, and she does not occupy high risk areas. This is happening so frequently that I wanted to do an event to raise money and raise awareness,” he said. Perry teamed up with AIDS Vancouver Island Health Centre (AVI) to host a comedy event on February 9, which did manage to raise $450 through ticket sales and donations as well as raise awareness through the distribution of “Overdose Survival Guide” pamphlets. The pamphlets inform users how to reduce the likelihood of dying, describe what an overdosed person looks like, and provide tips on what to do in an emergency situation. They are available in Ladysmith at the Resource Centre and Health Centre and at the AVI Health Centre in Nanaimo. AVI Health Centre manager Dana Becker said, “We have lost a staggering number of clients and members of our community to fentanyl overdose deaths, and thankfully and hopefully, we have helped to prevent many more deaths than we have lost. It is a frightening situation.” Becker explained how the staff at AVI Health Centre has provided “hundreds” of naloxone trainings to service providers and “many hundreds” of trainings and kits to opioid users, their friends, family and roommates. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the opiate receptors in the brain, and when injected into an overdosed person, will bring that person back to consciousness almost immediately. Becker said about the kits, “They are being used regularly and often.” In addition to the distribution of naloxone kits in the area, other prevention efforts include the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) opening an Overdose Prevention Site at 437 Wesley Street in Nanaimo, where people can be supervised as they use drugs in order to avoid dying while using alone. It appears that it is not only addicted intravenous users that are affected by the risk of death from overdose due to the unexpected ap-

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Know what to do in case of an overdose? Warren Whyte (writer) with educational brochure in hand. Photo: Marina Sacht

pearance of fentanyl, as on a recent CBC radio forum Dr. Susan Burgess said about the drug, “It’s in pot and cocaine now.” And on February 8, 2017, police reported that the highly toxic drug carfentanil was found for the first time in the Nanaimo area. Carfentanil is commonly used as an elephant tranquilizer and is 100 times stronger than the already deadly fentanyl. Perry said, “It’s the new norm that people are doing lethal drugs. It’s not just risky anymore. It’s straight up lethal.” For those who would like to learn more about how this crisis is affecting their local community, they are encouraged to contact the Ladysmith Resource Centre or the AVI Health Centre in Nanaimo. Those with addiction problems may receive free help in Nanaimo, Ladysmith or Chemainus from either Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) by contacting www.na.org (1-800-494-2404) or www.aa.org (250753-7513), respectively. For those with family members or friends in addiction or at risk of suffering from an overdose, help can be found by contacting local Nar-anon or Al-anon chapters in the area at www.nar-anon. org (604-878-8844) or www.al-anon.org (250-758-8767). As Katrina Brown pointed out, “It is tragic and sad for the family and friends left behind. We need to show people that we care whether they live or die.” Warren Whyte has undergone his own process of change and now works as an addiction counsellor. He can be contacted at nanaimonarrativetherapy@gmail.com.

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The NOT so Handy Man Birthdays are an unfortunate time for most men because it means they’ll be receiving gift-wrapped power tools — the expectation being they’ll know how to use them. This is an entirely unfair expectation, ranking up there with the belief that all women know how to cook, a notion shattered by British Aunt Rosie, who once served us a tasty, nutritious lunch of iceberg lettuce and cold mashed potatoes. (Rosie lived to 90 with that diet, but why?) Most men are like myself — in their incapable hands, a simple tool becomes a weapon of mass destruction. Oh sure, there are exceptions, just like there are men out there who know how to pick

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their socks off the floor and put them in the laundry basket, but these men are placed on the Earth just to make the rest of us look bad. Men and tools don’t mix. I reached this conclusion not just by self-observation, but also by examining the hands of my Wednesday morning coffee cronies, aka, The Purple Thumb Gang. All five pairs of hands looked like they had been washed in a meat grinder, each mangled

“Men were supposed to learn the basics of home repair from their fathers, but their fathers lived in a much simpler time.” paw sporting an assortment of punctures, burns, scrapes, abrasions and scabs in various stages of healing. Two of us had been trying to fix lawnmowers, while another was attempting to repair a leaking c-clamp hidden behind a bulkhead on his boat. The other two couldn’t remember what they had been trying to fix, but reported significant blood loss. The first thing a home handyman

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learns is to never attempt a repair job when on blood thinners. Thick blood is imperative even if you’re just putting air into your kid’s balloon. Always have an assortment of band-aids on the worksite — duct tape or black electrical tape when you can’t ﬁgure out how to get them unwrapped. Better still have a boxing cut man in attendance with all the necessary swabs and coagulants. Don’t forget a high-heeled, scantily clad, round girl or two to nurse you back to health. It is important that the home handyman know where he is at all times, especially in relationship to the nearest Dairy Queen, which comes with an assortment of blood thickeners, my favourite being the banana split. The importance of a Home Handyman Diet cannot be overstated. It is important to have your arteries as clogged as possible to prevent bleeding out. This is why most tradesmen pledge allegiance to the cheeseburger every day at noon when the sun is high in the sky. It is uncertain where the notion that men have the aptitude for ﬁxing things came from, but evidence points to Adam Smith’s “The Division of Labour,”

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which unequivocally states: If a man can’t find anything to do after dinner, then his wife will find a job for him, usually the dishes. Fortunately, the advent of the automobile bailed men out. Men soon discovered they could trick their wives by lying under the family car, legs poking out as if they were working. This proved a good spot to nap or catch up on reading. Drinking beer in that position proved iffy, however. But as successful as the ruse was, it backfired. Their wives thought they were actually fixing the car, not lying under it. “Well,” they said, “if he fixed the car, certainly he can fix the lock on the bathroom door.” From there expectations flourished. And the home handyman was born. Men were supposed to learn the basics of home repair from their fathers, but their fathers lived in a much simpler time. Back then if the toilet overflowed, you just dug another hole in the ground next to it and pushed the outhouse over. Being handy with your hands meant remembering to throw some dirt on the first hole before calling it a day. My father was born way before the invention of the shopping mall, let alone the tool section of Home Depot. Back then people didn’t own tools. If you wanted anything fixed, you’d go down to the blacksmith where the damaged part would be placed in a 1400 degree oven, along with Rosie’s left over spuds, and then whacked on by a guy named Otto with Popeye forearms and a great big hammer. My father did teach me some things. How to multi-task the Canadian way, which involves drinking beer and watching the Maple Leafs lose at the same time. Later on, he taught me the basics of organic gardening. (I’m proud to say he was the neighbourhood pioneer at embracing these concepts.) Simply put, my father believed in soil enrichment. If it came from the ocean and it stunk, he was all for it. This meant digging in all fish heads, guts and tails, with the occasional dogfish thrown in to watch over them. In addition, burlap sack after burlap sack of seaweed and starfish were stacked under his tomatoes, giving our yard a certain olfactory presence. His soil enrichment took place under the cover of darkness, so as not to alert the neighbours. “Damn pulp mill smells like rotting starfish,” he always used to say to them while somehow managing a straight face. Of course, learning anything from your parents is never guaranteed. As “The Theorem of Applied Parenthood” aptly states: The more effort a parent puts into passing on skills and values, the greater that child’s resistance to accept them. The corollary being: If you want your four-year-old to achieve proficiency at using the f-word as eight parts of speech, just put him in the shop while dad is fixing the damned lawnmower. (Bonus potato story: Potato madness can strike at any time. like in Italy, for example, where I mistakenly ordered a pizza with potato, rosemary and Parmesan. I had envisioned ephemerally thin slices of potato, as thin as Taylor Swift after a two day fast, shaved with Parmesan and dusted with rosemary. What I got was a six-inch stack of fries dumped onto a pizza shell. When Rosie heard this story, she said, “Why didn’t I think of that?”) A delicious Italian red to go with your French fries can be found at private liquor stores, Gran Passione, $17. Delbert Horrocks is a co-proprietor at Mahle House Restaurant. Follow him at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com

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MARCH 2017

Birds of a feather Feathers are a defining feature of birds. They provide insulation from cold and heat, repel water, protect sensitive skin and allow for flight. In addition, feather colouration is useful for camouflage as well as to communicate dominance and attract mates. For most birders, it is the primary method used to identify birds. Feather patterns can create very effective camouflage. These patterns can in-

Clockwise: Hooded Merganser, Great Horned Owl, Northern Flicker. Photos: H. Masata

clude the very common streaky brown plumages found in various habitats, but also the black and white patterns of woodpeckers (which spend a lot of time on tree trunks) and olive green patterns of birds that feed in tree canopies. Birds of the same species in diﬀerent geographic regions may have lighter or darker colouring. Song sparrows here, for example, are darker than song spar-

rows in central Canada. The general pattern is that more heavily pigmented forms of a species are found in more humid environments. This pattern is codiﬁed as Gloger’s rule, named after the German zoologist C.L. Gloger. A possible explanation for this pattern, is that

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this trait has been selected for because darker individuals in a more humid environment are less visible to predators compared with dark birds in a drier environment, such as a desert or grassland. A competing theory is that darker feathers contain more of the pigment melanin and are therefore more resistant to degradation by bacteria and mites, both of which prefer humid environments. Whatever the selection pressure, the pattern holds for the vast majority (around 90 per cent) of North American bird species. Some species, such as the killdeer, have bold markings that break up the normal outline of a bird and thus aid in camouflage. Many shorebirds are darker coloured above and lighter coloured below. This creates a counter-shading effect, which makes the individual look flat, and therefore, predators have a difficult time knowing the distance between them and their quarry. In some birds, the males and females are similar in colour year round. In others, the differences are stark, especially at this time of year when the mating season for many bird species is close at hand. For these birds, it is the males that are the gaudy showoffs. The discrepancy in colouration between male and female ducks is particularly distinctive and is a good indicator of how household duties are shared. Female ducks incubate the eggs and raise the young. The bright, beautifully coloured plumage of the males is an advertisement to attract mates and a warning to challengers. Mr. Darwin noticed that such characteristics increased a male’s risk of being predated upon, so how was it that this tendency to showiness persisted and lead to bizarre adornments (taken to a bit of an extreme in the male peacock) in some species? The answer he settled on was that sexual selection might lead to a shorter life, but the more adorned or colourful males sire more offspring. Evidence that the cost of showiness is high can be noted in the fact that the bright plumage for many species

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Pintail ducks. Photo:H. Masata

goes drabber out of the mating season. Feather colours are produced by the pigments — melanin for yellows, browns, greys and blacks, and caratonoides for oranges and reds. (Iridescence by contrast, for example on a mallard head or a hummingbirds throat, is produced by the refraction of light caused by the structure of the feather barbules. The feathers takes on a different colour in different lights and angles of observation.) A recent news study illustrates the role of some foods in the production of pigments. The northern flicker of eastern North America has yellow under the tail and underwings and has yellow shafts on its primary feathers. The ones in the west are red. There is a zone where hybrids exists, but a lot of flickers in the east, away from the hybrid zone, are now showing red colouration. After a lot of sleuthing, it was discovered that the flickers have taken to feeding on the berries of the introduced and now naturalized and abundant Japanese honeysuckle, which is affecting the tail and wing colouration. Similar colour changes have been noted in cedar waxwings and Baltimore orioles. The question now is how will the presence of this new plant influence territorial behaviour and mate attraction? The colouration of birds serves purposes that benefit the individual. In regards to feather colouration and its relation to mate attraction, perhaps one could (cautiously) presume that birds can appreciate the beauty of colours. That we find the same colours aesthetically pleasing is perhaps a more challenging thought. That birds and humans can distinguish (and perhaps appreciate) the same colours reflects that we see colour in the same way. Jay Rastogi is a naturalist, horticulturist and educator living in Yellow Point. ecoforestry@gmail.com

MARCH 2017

Get Growing with the Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club BY CAROL HENDERSON The local Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club has been rooted in this area for 70 years. Today’s members continue to learn from each other and from guest speakers. Activities, trips and summer garden visits add to the pleasure of a pastime that, for many, can become a magniﬁcent obsession. As this gardening season opens up, seed catalogues and garden centres are given careful scrutiny and imaginations conjure up beautiful produce and ornamental plantings. Every new year brings renewed hopes. Experience reminds us that advanced planning aids in the realization of the dream. Age old wisdom decrees that you need a $10 hole for a $5 plant; so plan to spend time and money to prepare the soil and keep it nourished. Understand your own garden, observing how the light varies in diﬀerent locations depending on time of day and the seasons. Read the plant label or catalogue description for shade or sun preferences. Choose with a plan in mind (more easily said than done) so that you know where that plant will go and thrive when you get it home. Divide, transplant or remove overcrowded specimens. Conserving water and choosing drought tolerant plants are choices we must make given our hot, dry summers. By being mindful of pollinators, employing organic pest control and avoiding invasive plant species, gardeners become nature’s stewards. Membership is $15, meetings are held in the lower room at the Frank Jameson Centre at 7pm on the third Thursday of each month until May. Mark your calendars for our famous Plant Sale at Aggie Hall on Saturday, May 6th. Doors open at 9am.

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New look for Mahle House The Mahle House Restaurant in Cedar is getting a makeover. Built in 1904 the Heritage home has been known as the Mahle House since 1983 and has become a ﬁxture in the Cedar community with its signature orange exterior colour. Chef Stephen Wilson says it was time to update the décor with new tables and chairs, brighter colours and a comfortable bar, perfect for patrons just looking to drop by for a glass of wine and an appy. Stephen and his wife Tara took over the operations of the Mahle House in 2009 from Chef Maureen Loucks and Delbert Horrocks,Tara’s mother and uncle. The menu is an ever changing collection of dishes that showcase seasonal offerings from local farms and suppliers. The restaurant will be closed March 6 to 17 during renovations. Drop in and check out their new look with custom built tables and bar featuring maple and antique Haslam family barn wood. For more information call 250-7223621.

Chakalaka Bar & Grill Panayota Giannikos Owner/Chef of Chakalaka Bar & Grill is back serving up delicious Canadian and International foods made in-house from scratch. Patrons may remember her as the owner of Omega Restaurant from earlier days. The menu is varied, and reasonably priced plus you will ﬁnd some surprises Stephen Wilson surveys the interior of the Mahle House Restaurant’s dining room. The popular Cedar landmark is getting a make-over. Photo: Marina Sacht

in selections. We were pleased to note that she brings in her Greek inﬂuence with a fabulous Souvlaki dish. The name Chakalaka comes from a South African vegetable relish, usually spicy, that is traditionally served with bread, pap, samp, stews, or curries. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, 13230 Trans Canada Highway at Cedar Road intersection.

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MARCH 2017

FOR SALE

HOME & YARD

LADYSMITH HISTORICAL SOCIETY is holding a GIGANTIC GARAGE SALE on Saturday, April 8, at Aggie Hall. Table Rentals available now — contact Shanon at 924-8809 or sburchard@ hotmail.ca. The society will be accepting donations. Fundraiser for the Museum and Heritage Park at the waterfront.

NEW LIFE YARDWORK and PAINTING. Lawn mowing, weeding, power washing, rubbish removal, gutter cleaning. Prompt, courteous, reliable service for your home or business. Contact Terry at newlifeyardwork@gmail.com or call 250668-8383.

DVD PLAYER - $10. Works good. 250-245-4073. INVERSION TABLE for back stretches $100 250245-9165. WANTED EXPERIENCED HOUSEKEEPER, twice a month Ladysmith area. Please phone Janet 250-2457240. LADYSMITH MUSEUM has openings for the following positions for the 2017 season. Museum Host (8 hrs/month), Event Assistant (10 hours / month), Story Writer and PR/Marketing. Please contact Shanon 924-8809 or sburchard@hotmail. ca for more information on these volunteer positions. BUSINESS MID-ISLAND HOME SUPPORT since 2009. Personal assistance and house cleaning available. Bondable, licensed, certified and insured for your safety and ours. For the best rates around, please call 250-924-2273 (CARE). I CAN EDIT. Copy editing, proofreading, structural editing and more. Web content, books, resumes, documents, prepare eBooks. Fiction or nonfiction. For more information, email editican@gmail.com. BARNACLE BILL’S CHARTERS. Fishing, and sightseeing. Call 250-210-0787 or 250-245-4185. CONCRETE RESULTS. Contracting, full-service forming and finishing, walls, walks, patios, drives. 35 years experience. Call Gord 250-753-4024.

BEADS BEADS BEADS ETC.! 9752 Willow St., Chemainus. Best prices on the Island. Follow Facebook@etcinchemainus or call 250-324-2227. TAKE 5 ads work! 250-245-7015 EXPERIENCED HOUSE SITTER available for Spring / Summer 2017. References avail. Prefer long stay. www.peaceofmindhousesitting. wordpress.com. Call Kathleen 250-619-0786. VIDEO PRODUCTION services, from script to screen, edited and ready to post on YouTube, Facebook or your website. Promotion, training, corporate history. Affordable rates start at $100 set up, $50/hr. editor@take5.ca. HEALTH & BEAUTY BOWEN TECHNIQUE is a gentle soft tissue remedial therapy that resets the body to heal itself. Useful for joint, back and neck pain, frozen shoulder, asthma, chronic fatigue and many other problems. Lilja Hardy FMBAC in practice since 1994. www.bowtech.com. For information and appointments, call 250-245-7738. TAI CHI For mental & physical health. Beginner class starts Sept., Mondays at Cedar Heritage Centre. On-going class Wednesdays at North Oyster Community Centre. Both classes 10am to noon $20/mo. www.nanaimotaichi.org. Call Sara 250-245-1466. YELLOWPOINT BODY WORKS. Book four consecutive Relaxation Massages for $50 ea. (reg. $65 ea.). Other treatments, Chakra Balancing, Exfoliating Rubs and Hot Wax treatments. Call for appointment and brochure 250-618-8218. EASY DOES IT FITNESS.CA’s Open House March 11 from 1pm to 5pm. Check it out before you workout. New hours, classes and prices start April 1. Come have fun. easy does it fitness.ca’

QUALITY RENOVATIONS. Big or small. 25 yrs exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate, call Lars 250-616-1800. DARRELL ESSAR RENOVATIONS. Over 30 years’ experience, certified journeyman carpenter. No Job is too small, from fences, decks, tile work, hardwood flooring, painting, drywall etc. For free estimate, call Darrell 250-714-3823. KEEP IT CLEAN SOLUTIONS. Top to bottom service. General, event, windows, we’ll even make your bed! Great for families, seniors, single parents, office cleaning, flexible service to fit your schedule. Email aliciajohnson@telus.net or call Alicia 1-250-709-1364. TAKE 5 ADS WORK! 250-245-7015 THE HAPPY GARDENER. Weeding, digging, raking, cutting back, etc. I also do odd jobs. Cheerful and conscientious. Call David 250-6189217. ISLAND GARDEN SCAPES.CA for all your garden needs, booking now for fall clean up. Call/text/ email islandgardenscapes@gmail.com or 250802-0461. ISLAND PRUNING. Professional tree care from large scale orchards to budding new trees. I can meet any pruning need. Shrubs, vines and ornamental. Large and small clean ups. Call Darcy Belcourt 250-323-1260. KB HANDYMAN AND YARDWORKS Services. Minor carpentry work, decks, fences, gutter cleaning, tree pruning, yard clean up, lawn fertilizing, mowing. Senior’s discount. Call Karl at 250-714-2738.

ARE YOU THINKING of a garden renovation or landscaping project? Excellent quality and knowledge. We are happy to assist you with any landscaping or gardening work you need. Estimates are always free. Give Sandpiper a call! 250-246-2421. MAKE IT NICE. Experienced gardener available for private or residential gardens. Call 250-7549346 RAISED GARDEN BEDS, railings, wheelchair ramps, decks, benches, woodsheds, greenhouses, painting, carpentry, custom shelving. Enhance your enjoyment of the home and yard you love. Namaste Home Improvements, 250-245-2751 (see display ad). PETS ANIMAL COMMUNICATOR. I provide services to help with behaviour issues, lost animals, messages your Animal wants you to hear and much more. Contact me at www.talktotheanimals. ca Phone: 250 245-1410 PROFESSIONAL PET CARE SERVICE. Leash ’em & walk ’em with Marlena. Insured and bonded. Animal First Aid and CPR. Service for all pets including dog walking, home care visits, overnight with pet in my home and much more. As my love is yours! Call 250-246-3394. TOO CRAZY BIRDY HOTEL. Now four locations: Victoria, Cedar, Parksville and Comox Valley. Travel with peace of mind, parrot boarding in loving settings. Budgies to macaws. $7, $14, $18 for sml, md, lrg. www.toocrazybirdyhotel.com. Diana and Kip 250-722-2201. THE PET NANNY. Let us pamper and love your pets at your home or ours. Experience and references are available. Shanon or Bill at 250924-8809, Ladysmith. SENIORS LYNN’S SENIORS CARE HOME. High quality personalized care. Warm caring environment. Great food and snacks. Family events. Couples and pets welcomed. Ocean views, gardens. North of Ladysmith. www.lynnsseniorcare.com. Call 250-245-3391. LEAVE A LEGACY. Memoirs, family cookbooks, personal histories, we can help get your project ready to press. Available in print and e-book format. Professional publishing services for corporate or individuals. editor@take5.ca or phone 250-245-7015. ATTN: CEDAR & AREA RESIDENTS. We are looking for family histories, photographs, and movies regarding the Cedar and Area communities for a book project celebrating our rural roots as part of Canada 150. Contact editor@take5.ca or 250-245-7015 to book an interview.

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Jackie Moad (centre) retirement party. Janelle Morris and Corina Sayers on either side. Photo submitted.

“There’s never enough time to do all the nothing you want.” — Bill Watterson, Calvin and Hobbes

That’s The Spirit! Just after midnight, as I was dozing off, J. rolled over and looked me in the eye. “That was the last day. I’m officially retired.” Dark as it was the Alice-in-Wonderland ear to ear grin wasn’t hard to see. Welldeserved, hard-working, early-morning days now over ... helped so many with her care-first approach to nursing, professional goals achieved and set her mind to it, she was leaving a nursing career that she could be proud of. Rest and relaxation from here on. Paradise, ambrosia and lotus blossoms. All those thoughts and more flashed though my mind. All she heard was me kinda grunting a half-assed congratulations before falling back to sleep. It was all a dream I dreamed. How could I still be married to such a beauty, a woman of leisure and grace, and now out of work? Restless I slept. Well, not really out of work ’cause we have a farm, and there was a lot more of that there work coming with the spring. Just not paid work. And just being the unhired hand and all, digging where I’m told, lifting that bale, toting whatever barge wherever, the J. was the one to know what the seasons bring. A wise babe in the woods, out here in wide-open country lands. Fall walks flitted through half-awake thoughts. Around the field and garden snippets of talks came at me. Had she mentioned raised beds by the lane, new garden plots, tree plantings, the 12 steps of soil-building, and pruning all around? By April? Had I’d kinda grunted and nodded her off then too? And last week, talk of tack room walls

going up after waterlines are laid out and drippy doo-dads buried to the new plum trees. Extending the horse-ring would be fine too, once I moved that boulder? And the new gates would need cementing, with solar power options integrated for the remote opener switch we might put in, sometime, in the not-so-distant future? I blinked and kinda pried opened my eyes. The clock said two a.m. The house was still: quiet breaths beside me, blankets rising and falling, a heartbeat I knew to be the epitomy of all that is good in life, peaceful-like silence enfolding, the wee wifie’s slight demeanor and wondrous presence lulling. La la land calling. A whisper in my ear, the high winds of winter, didn’t we need to take out those leaner trees the snow knocked over? What a good start on the wood supply once chain-sawed and split. Placed neatly in that new woodshed, promised. Nudge, nudge. Right, right. After the bathroom extension to the cottage where a jacuzzi tub with a window out to the woods would be nice. I rolled over, clock catching my eye. Two-thirty. The she hadn’t moved. Laaa. A sunroom would be nice too, and it could double as a greenhouse. For the starter plants, veggie and market garden offerings, and summer gate sales by the roadside table I’d be making. Promised. Along with that storage space for all those patio chairs and tables that need to go out to where the gazebo and landing are planned. By the new firepit, you know, what we’d talked about, to burn all those branches from the leaner trees? Two-forty-five, one eye open. Looked around. Yup. This was the woman of my dreams alright. Spotted her across a crowded room in university

days, stole her away from Laurie #1 (lots of intrigue there!) and moved on west to the promised land. Everything we owned in that old rusty Toyota her mum gave us, the one that broke down in that steep, steep high pass of the Rockies. And adventures all over the place. Feminist principles, humanist practices. She started Haven when the abuse of batterers in bar-happy resource towns demanded action. Got herself involved in local politics too. Back to school to her heart’s desire — a nurse — her way to mend the ails and injuries, to heal the sick, be the Nightingale, the Nellie McClung and Janis Joplin of the new age. And she travelled well, two trips around the world, camping and cycling and sleeping under the stars. Roughing it, shoestring budgets and zero bank accounts the norm. Macaroni and cheese, beans or bread but not both, and never a complaint to be heard. Well not never. J.’s never been that pleased with right-wing ideologues, racist bastards or the predatory corporate takeovers of the last 40 years. Setting such ills behind her to devote time to the rescue sheep, collie dogs, welsh ponies and meetings with the girls. And a balancing act in life that’s left me amazed and occasionally gobsmacked. I’m kinda waiting to see what comes next if truth be told. Besides farm, farm, farm that is. Six a.m. Time to get up; put the coﬀee on. She’s not much of a morning gal. I’ll let her sleep in till seven, today. That broken arm of hers is a good excuse, for another week or two .... Laurie Gourlay and Jackie Moad are peas in a pod, adventure and glory and who knows what ahead. And they kinda like it that way, seeking local solutions to global challenges everywhere!