TAKE 5 June 2023

Letters

Fair Shake for Ladysmith Commuity Marina?

There is a growing amount of acrimonious debate concerning the fate of Ladysmith’s Community Marina.

Most of it centres around the surprise announcement that the Ladysmith Maritime Society has been served eviction notice because the Town and its partners have agreed to transfer the marina and its environs to the Stz’uminus First Nation’s Coast Salish Development Corporation.

But the public disquiet to this backroom deal has its roots in the mayor and Council’s historic lack of transparency. In a reactive statement to the uproar, Mayor Stone called for an era of “consultation, accommodation, collaboration and consent” when discussing developments with our First Nations neighbours.

These terms — consultation, accommodation, collaboration and consent — are not just throw-away words. They have established legal precedent at the provincial and federal levels, and they set “minimum standards” for public consultation. Not so long ago, the Kinder Morgan pipeline “agreement” was sent back to the negotiating table for failing to meet those minimum standards in discussions with First Nations. They are now law.

As a relative veteran of the public-consultation process in Ladysmith, I have on several occasions asked Council to strive for those four standards. Yet every presentation has been met with stony silence. Not one question has been answered, let alone accommodated. In fact, the mayor makes clear that Council has no obligation to respond to concerns raised.

Those standards don’t just govern discussions with First Nations; they apply to every public-consultation process any town is legally obliged to hold for projects pertaining to “planning and land use.”

So, when the mayor thanks the “hundreds of community members” who allegedly took part in creating the Official Community Plan, the question has to be: “Yeah, but did you accommodate any of their concerns and seek consent for the more divisive elements?”

A few years back, people were concerned enough about the fate of our waterfront to sign a petition to pause a proposed rezoning of parts of the water-front from “waterfront park” to “medium-density residential” until a referendum could be held in the upcoming municipal election. This could have delivered the “consent” required by law.

Almost 1,000 people signed the referendum, which Mayor Stone refused to accept due to a “technicality”; Town adminis-

trators then blocked efforts to email the petition to councillors prior to the rezoning vote.

Last year, Ladysmith had one of the worst voter turnouts on the Island; just 23 per cent of the eligible electorate bothered to vote. Ebullient Council spin doctors highlighted this as a sign of satisfaction with the Town’s leadership; more clear-minded folks saw it is a sign that most residents have long lost hope that voting will change anything here.

So, when our unelected mayor demands the legal minimum standards for public consultations with our First Nations brothers and sisters, it smacks of hypocrisy; moreover, it looks like he is offering Stz’uminus folks a standard he routinely rejects for non-Indigenous taxpayers here. That’s not good look for the mayor, nor Council. -

Russ Barling

Dam building

The original dam on Stocking Lake was built by our forebearers in about 1904. This dam has provided the residents of Saltair and Ladysmith with an excellent water supply for many years. After repairs in the 1960s, this dam con-

tinues to serve the communities; however, a recent seismic assessment has determined a new dam is required.

The question is, do we have the foresight to rebuild the dam so that we will have a secure water supply for the future?

Currently global warming has created a new weather pattern of wet winter atmospheric rivers followed by sever summer droughts. Consequently, it makes sense to build the new dam higher to capture a su fficient volume of the winter rains to provide secure supply during the summer droughts.

In addition to providing water for Saltair and Ladysmith, the new dam is an ideal opportunity for “reconciliaction” with First Nations. A freshwater pipeline under Stewart Channel can provide water to Island communities. Building a higher dam to increase the Stocking Lake storage capacity is an ideal opportunity to secure the water supply for both the Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities through a mutually beneficial partnership.

Let us hope our leaders have the courage to pursue this opportunity so that a

century from now the people will look back and say, “They did well.”

- Jack Taylor

Freighters in the harbour

Deep sea freighters are defi nitely not the loveliest thing to have anchored in a small harbour. But rather than complain about them, people should be at least celebrating that they are here.

The anchorages here are overload parking. Freighters anchored here is a sign that the ports where they load are operating above capacity. This just means that our economy is going strong.

The invasion of Ukraine has created a huge shortage of grain worldwide, so there’s many countries in need of grain. This is the main cause of the increase of bulk carriers anchoring here. If there was room for them in English Bay, they wouldn’t be here.

Be happy. They are good for our economy. - Tom

Williams

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National Indigenous Peoples Day at Transfer Beach

Stz’uminus will be hosting a National Indigenous Peoples Day event at Transfer Beach on Wednesday, June 21. Events are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The public is invited.

There will be performances by Tzinquaw Dancers and Young Wolves Dance Group. There will be arts and crafts, food, bouncy castles, vendors and information booths.

The Loaves and Fishes Community Food Bank will have a booth set up to accept any monetary donations or nonperishable food items.

If you are looking for more information on Stz’uminus culture, Ann Rogers of the Ladysmith Archives recommends checking out Stz’uminus Storied Places. Whether you are an armchair traveller, at the beach or out on the water, you can begin to see Ladysmith Harbour through the eyes of the Stz’uminus Nation thanks to an interactive google map. Elder Ray Harris vividly described places of cultural and economic significance on a boat trip with UVic researchers and journalists in 2019. You can access the google map and read about the Stz’uminus Storied Places research project here: www.uvic.ca/socialsciences/ ethnographicmapping/projects/stzuminus/index.php.

Petition to save Ladysmith Community Marina

A petition has been launched that the Friends of Ladysmith Community Marina hope will force the Province to save the Ladysmtih Community Marina. Launched on May 27, the petition will be available to sign at LMS Welcome Centre, Appetit Food for Thought Restaurant, and In the Beantime Cafe.

A recent LMS Open House at the Aggie Hall on May 5 was packed with community members concerned about the stalled negotiations and an eviction notice delivered to the non-profit Society by the Town of Ladysmith. The petition is from the “Friends of Ladysmith Community Marina” to: “The Honourable Legislative Assembly of the Province of British Columbia, in Legislature”. It requests that the Legislative Assembly facilitate a negotiation pro-

cess between the Stz’uminus First Nation and the Ladysmith Maritime Society in support of the implementation of a contract between the Stz’uminus First Nation and the Ladysmith Maritime Society to allow the Society to continue to operate and manage the Ladysmith Community Marina.

Council adopts 2023 Budget

Ladysmith Council has adopted the 2023 Budget and is prioritizing strategic capital projects that renew infrastructure, upgrade public facilities and improve the high level of service delivery.

This year, Ladysmith’s municipal taxes are down 1.1 per cent for a singlefamily dwelling, with a year-over-year increased property assessment value of 12.5 per cent — the average for residential properties in town as determined by BC Assessment.

Assessment-based taxes are up 6.3 per cent for the average single-family home in Ladysmith, largely due to the transition to regional recreation funding model.

The Water Parcel Tax is unchanged for 2023 and the Sewer Parcel Tax increased by $10 per household.

As part of the approved budget, Council allocated $56,100 to 16 organizations through Grants in Aids, providing financial assistance to an organization for a speci fic project, event or service that benefits the community.

Ladysmith Council has also adopted the new Official Community Plan

Ladysmith Community Marina was topic at Ladysmith Maritime Society's Open House on May 5. A petition is now being circulated following the formation of a Friends of Ladysmith Community Marina Facebook Group. Photo: Rob Johnson

(OCP), the principal long-range policy document to help guide land-use management and the physical growth of the town.

“The policies contained within the OCP accommodate the growth we can expect while strengthening our values around reconciliation, environmental protection and economic development,” says Mayor Aaron Stone.

The OCP review was coined “Unparallel 2049,” in reference to the community’s location on the 49th Parallel and Council’s commitment to climate action and reducing our greenhouse gas emissions ahead of the 2050 net zero emissions deadline.

Town begins amenity upgrades at Lot 108/Forrest Field

Phase 1 implementation of the Lot 108 Park Plan is underway.

Over the coming months, the public will notice construction activity as contractor Stone Paci fic and the Town completes the following upgrades: installation of a practice/warm up pitch; installation of the new scoreboard (purchased with funds donated by the Fraternal Order of Eagles No. 2101 Aerie and Auxiliary); Fourth Avenue parking improvements next to pitch; accessible walkway expansion; and installation of outdoor fitness equipment.

The $680,000 investment in the Lot 108/Forrest Field amenities is funded by a combination of Parks Development Cost Charges, the Canada-BC Safe-Restart Fund and Town funds.

The Lot 108 Stakeholder Group (Ladysmith Lions Club, Rotary Club of Ladysmith, Ladysmith Kinsmen Club, Fraternal Order of Eagles No. 2101 Aerie and Auxiliary and Mid-Isle Soccer) will be facilitating the completion of the accessible walkway.

Work is scheduled to be complete by the end of Summer 2023.

Rescuing fruit: action in poverty reduction

Each year, an abundance of apples, cherries, plums and more are grown locally, but not always harvested. As part of the CommUNITY Together to End Poverty Hw-nuts’-ulwum Poverty Reduction Strategy, the Town of Ladysmith is supporting the Ladysmith

Resource Centre Association (LRCA) in launching the Fruit Rescue project to make sure any extra food grown is harvested and shared within the community.

The LRCA is coordinating the project with grant funding awarded to the Town of Ladysmith through the Union of BC Municipalities Poverty Reduction Planning and Action Grant.

“There is a wonderful social aspect to people coming together outside, meeting new people and picking the fruit, as well as the added value of community organizations sharing the food with participants in programs that they offer,” says Fruit Rescue Coordinator Shannon Crowards.

Residents within and around Ladysmith and Stz’uminus can sign up with the LRCA if you have fruit trees or gardens or if you would like to harvest. The LRCA will schedule dates and times to harvest. One third of what is collected will go to the owner, one third will be shared with the volunteers and the last third will go to the LRCA Food Bank and/or other partner organizations. Contact lrca.ca/programs/food-security/fruitrescue, by calling 250-245-3079 or emailing shannon@lrca.ca.

Woodlot harvesting near Heart Lake Trail

A contractor, D-Mac and Son Contracting, will soon begin harvesting two woodlots in the vicinity of the Heart Lake Trail.

The Crown licences are for woodlots B18 and B19. The harvesting activity is anticipated to be completed in five to six weeks. The work will occur between the hours of 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Heart Lake Trail will remain accessible to the public, pending any sudden or planned intermittent closure.

Ladysmith Community Fund call for proposals

The Ladysmith Community Fund Society has issued its fi rst call for proposals from charitable organizations in the Ladysmith area to receive a grant. The fund, which was established in 2021, has grown to the point where LCFS can use the revenue it earns to issue a charitable grant.

The amount of the fi rst grant will be small at $600, President Bruce Whittington explains. “We wanted to start giving back to the community as soon as we could, even if it is a small fi rst step.” He adds that more funds will be available in 2024, “and every year after that—forever.”

Details of the grant application process, along with a downloadable application form, can be found on the LCFS website (www.ladysmithcommunityfund.ca).

Job’s help hearing impaired

The Masonic Family in Ladysmith is alive, well and working to help their community.

Hearing Improvement Kids Endowment (HIKE) Fund, the main charity supported by Job’s Daughters International, has been given a $1,254 helping hand. HIKE supports families of lower income in attaining equipment for hearing-impaired children.

All funds raised by Job’s Daughters for this project stay in the area in which they were raised.

“There is no better feeling than to know a child has been given a chance for a fuller better life,” says Lynda Phelan. She and the other members of Sharon Chapter No. 4 Order of the Eastern Star (OES) have supported the Ladysmith Cancer dressing stations, the BC and Alberta Guide Dog Association and the

Ladysmith Food Bank.

Sharon Chapter No. 4 OES and Bethel No. 11 Job’s Daughters International are fraternal orders and part of the Masonic Family under the Masonic umbrella of St. John’s Masonic Lodge in Ladysmith.

School students raise $500 to combat malnutrition

In April, members of the Interact Club of Ladysmith Senior Secondary School presented Access to Education Collaborative (AEC) with a cheque for $500. AEC is a registered nonprofit society supported by the Rotary Club of Ladysmith.

The students raised the money by holding sales of popcorn, pizza, baked goods and a car wash. The money was donated for the Incaparina school nutrition program in Pastores, Guatemala. Guatemala coordinator Corina Arana will purchase the Incaparina in Guatemala and ensure it reaches the right people.

Guatemala, Images of Hope

On June 7 Gerry Beltgens and his friends are taking over the Jas Cafe on 4th Ave. from 5:00-8:00 pm

Gerry founded Access to Education in 2022, a federally registered non-profit society. He will be sharing his experiences and photos of his trips to Guatemala and Honduras.

“I have spent four months in Central America since the beginning of 2022. I lived in the communities and had an intimate look at life in the Mayan indigenous and Ladino villages. There will be lots of photos and lots of stories.”

In partnership with other Rotary Clubs and non-profits, Access to Education was involved in the installation of 20 Digital Library systems, the supply of over a ton of nutritional supplements to address malnutrition, and provided 25 wheelchairs to a poor Ladino community.

Tickets are $50 per person and include a bu ffet Mexican Dinner, and more! Email gbeltgens@gmail.com or text 250-7393887 and book your seat.

Bring a friend and bring your wallet, or bring a friend with a wallet. Money raised from this event will go towards the projects you will hear about at the event.

Co-presidents, Zach Trawick and Lucy Street, and members of the LSS Interact Club and Gerry Beltgens are accepting the cheque for AEC. Photo submitted.

Ladysmith Health Care Auxiliary appreciated

BY ELLY SMITH

The Ladysmith Health Care Auxiliary recently held their Appreciation Dinner for members and volunteers at the Eagle Hall. This organization, which dates back to the early 1900s, has been serving the local community with 300 members of which 160 are active volunteers.

In addition to the Thrift Store volunteers that we see when dropping off items or browsing in the store, other volunteers provide gardening services, maintenance support, meals-onwheels, sewing projects, support at Oyster Harbour seniors home or are at-home helpers. Some volunteers have been with the LHCA for nearly 40 years and at the Appreciation Dinner, one such volunteer was given her 50-year pin.

The special evening celebrated the achievements of the volunteers, their community of friendship and comradery and the bond they have formed working alongside one another over the years. We were entertained by their talents of singing, dancing, lip-syncing, ukulele playing and participating in a themed fashion show of skits.

Past president Ruth Goodbody, said “The volunteers fulfill a signi ficant need in this community. At the store, they receive and process an abundance of goods being donated, with the end goals of supporting medical and health wellness programs, purchasing of healthcare equipment, and many other wellnessrelated initiatives in the community.”

As well, the volunteer members operate and manage numerous programs to provide services and generate funding to as-

sist other non-profit related programs. “Since 2009 the LHCA has participated in three Festival of Lights parades and two Ladysmith Days parades. Organizing the parades, particularly getting enough people to participate, is a fair amount of work, but the parade itself is great fun and a good way to raise community awareness.”

For information on volunteering, please visit ladysmithhealthcareaux.ca/volunteering.

Community crime

New Democrat MLA Doug Routley says that residents will benefit from projects to address criminal activity in their community, assist individuals experiencing gender-based violence and support Indigenous peoples recovering from trauma.

“Healing from trauma can take many forms, and it is important that people feel supported at every stage of their journey,” says Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “These grants will support local organizations, and their hardworking staff and volunteers, in being able to support even more people to heal and grow.”

Five projects in the region are receiving $170,882 to implement crime prevention and remediation projects in their community. The BC NDP government is providing nearly $9.7 million in one-time grants through the program to support 197 community projects and fund police equipment and training.

Civil Forfeiture grants are funds that go back into our communities from seized proceeds of crimes. These projects are being led by local governments, community-based not-forprofits, school districts, health authorities, academic institutions, police departments and Indigenous organizations.

Ladysmith Health Care Auxiliary's Appreciation Dinner at Ladysmith Eagles Hall. Photo: Elly Smith

Girls Night Out

“Girls Night Out” is a dream come true for three friends who last performed together in Ladysmith’s “The Musical of Musicals.”

While all three actors — Brenda Clarke, Ann McInulty-Gogo and Kim Rogers — have been off performing at many local theatres, Brenda and Ann felt a need to bring music, dance and audience participation back to the theatre after a long time of isolation with COVID. No need to stay in your seat for this unique musical, born of the authors’ favourite experiences and melodies, which are woven into a story about three long-time friends in Cedar. You’ll be up singing and dancing to

well-known tunes, as the lyrics will be up on the big screen for you to join in.

It is a joyful tale of memories and song told by the three close friends who meet up for late afternoon drinks at a well-known Cedar bar. Their host, Josh, played by Dave Ehrismann, knows all three ladies and enjoys their spirited banter.

GNO is a fundraiser for Yellow Point Drama Group. President Armando Dos Santos welcomes everyone over 19, as liquor will be available.

“We have been promoting local playwrights to submit their new original scripts for a play reading. We are grateful to Brenda and Ann for writing and directing this fun show.”

Limited tickets are available, with fi rst-come, fi rst-serve seating, so mark your calendars: Saturday, June 17, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, June 18, at 2 p.m., at the Cedar Hall. The Kinsmen Club Bar will be providing soft drinks, beer, wine and special drinks to stimulate your singing and dancing. There will also be water, coffee, tea and light snacks or desserts available to purchase.

Admission is 19+ and tickets can be purchased online at www.yellowpointdramagroup.org or at the door if still available.

Cowichan Camerata String Orchestra celebrates spring

The Camerata String Orchestra invites music lovers to their Serenade to Spring concerts. They will be performing June 17 at Ladysmith’s Little Theatre (show starts at 7 p.m.), and after a few year’s absence, returning on June 18 to Duncan’s United Church for a Sunday afternoon performance (show starts at 2:30 p.m.).

The Cowichan Camerata String Orchestra was formed in 2006, and several of its members have been with them since inception. This “strings only” orchestra provides opportunities for musicians to improve their playing skills, gain experience playing in an orchestra and performing in public.

Members of the Camerata range in age 15 to 85. Some are or have been professional musicians; most are intermediate or beginners. Some perform in other groups; some in smaller ensembles. Over the years, their numbers have remained consistent with about 25 players, sometimes as many as 30. Post pandemic, the group is slightly smaller but still enthusiastic.

New members are always welcome, and they invite anyone interested in joining them to connect through Facebook or their website.

In addition to the two annual concerts, they perform at a variety of venues, at community events, busking downtown and at fundraisers. They bring their “dress rehearsals” to extended care and assisted living facilities for people who would not normally be able to attend their concerts.

Under the direction of Chris Redsell, the orchestra’s repertoire and playing ability has grown immensely. These performances include Max Bruch’s Serenade for String Orchestra, Mozart’s Divertimento, and a Corelli Concerto Grosso with soloists. The group will be joined by harpist Lesley Hartford and the Giambori duet as guest performers.

Tickets are $20 for adults, under 18 free, through orchestra members, available by emailing info@cowichancamerata.org or at the door.

Cassidy Aquifer

BY KERITH WADDINGTON

Area residents concerned with land use practices and an application for rezoning by a local auto-wrecking and scrap-metal recycling plant situated directly above the Cassidy Aquifer and adjacent to several farms are invited to voice their concerns at a public information meeting being held June 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Aggie Hall in Ladysmith.

Schnitzer Steel Canada Inc. has been operating in Cassidy for over ten years. Prior to that, Can-Am Recycling operated on the site. Under CVRD Electoral Area H Zoning Bylaw No. 1020, the lands on which Schnitzer Steel operates are zoned I-1 (Light Industrial); I-1 zoning does not permit vehicle and metal recycling. Schnitzer Steel has made a rezoning application to the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) that would establish a new I-4 (Industrial Recycling) zone, thus making vehicle and metal recycling lawful conforming uses under the zoning bylaw.

It is noted that industrial uses, includ-

ing auto-wrecking, occurred on the lands prior to the introduction of the zoning bylaw in 1986. The Local Government Act permits land uses that were lawful when the bylaw was established to continue uninterrupted, so long as they retain the same scale and scope, even if the landuse regulations later remove the permitted use from the zoning bylaw.

Asked why the CVRD has not enforced bylaws at the Schnitzer site, Ann Kjerulf, General Manager of Land Use Services with the CVRD, says, “It is typical for local governments like the CVRD to have policies regarding the suspension of bylaw enforcement activities while there is an in-stream development application.”

All of this horri fies June Ross, chairperson of the Vancouver Island Water Watch Coalition (VIWWC). “Many who have been involved with this issue over the years believe the scale and scope of Schnitzer has increased ten-fold,” says Ross. “Schnitzer does not belong on top of our aquifer! The CVRD says this is a land-use issue, but they cannot separate the land from the water or vice versa.”

The Cassidy Aquifer is a very large

underground network of fresh water that provides drinking water, agricultural water and water for homes and businesses in the Cedar, Yellow Point, Cassidy and North Oyster area south of Nanaimo. This aquifer has been designated as highly vulnerable to contamination because the soil upon which it sits is composed of sand and gravel, and there are areas where the soil upon the aquifer is in a thinner layer than others.

A civil suit was filed June 23, 2022, in the Supreme Court by Ladysmith residents with support from Vancouver Island Water Watch Coalition (VIWWC). The VIWWC, along with North Oyster Diamond Rate Payers Association (NODRA), supports this litigation as part of efforts to protect the Cassidy aquifer from harm by industrial land use.

This civil suit alleges that Schnitzer Steel’s recycling plant located south of the airport is committing ongoing flagrant violations of CVRD zoning bylaws, and that the CVRD has failed to enforce its bylaws that prohibit heavy industrial activities, including specifically metal recycling and the outside storage of materials since at least 2012. Schnitzer Steel’s

auto-wrecking facility includes multi-story piles of used metal and huge stockpiles of tires visible throughout the area.

The plaintiffs in this litigation own property on agricultural reserve land adjacent to Schnitzer Steel. They allege that they have experienced losses as a result of nuisances, including pollution of groundwater, destruction of crops, loss of use of property and loss in property value caused by Schnitzer Steel. They also allege negligence on the part of the CVRD in not enforcing their bylaws.

The public information meeting being held June 19 is intended to provide Schnitzer Steel with an opportunity to present their rezoning application and for community members to become more familiar with the proposal and ask questions, prior to further consideration by the CVRD Board.

Tony Belot, Government and Public A ffairs Manager, Northwest Region for Schnitzer Steel Industries Inc., forwarded this statement.

“Schnitzer Steel is driven by our Core Values of Safety, Sustainability and Integrity, which serve as the foundation for all our operations. We look forward to the upcoming public meeting where we can collectively advance responsible and essential recycling services for the Cowichan Valley community”.

The application for rezoning of the Schnitzer site, which is located in the CVRD’s North Oyster/Diamond electoral area, was fi rst initiated in 2016 as a result of the CVRD receiving complaints about the site, including the fact that the operation is not permitted under the current zoning of the area, and that the operation has raised aesthetic concerns and may also have environmental impacts upon the Cassidy Aquifer.

Ross says a resident who lives near the site recently dug a well and found it was full of contaminants.

Pauline Hunt, president of NODRA, says Schnitzer Steel should relocate to an area that isn’t situated upon an environmentally sensitive aquifer. “This is about protecting our drinking water now and for future generations!” she adds.

Ross is of the understanding that Schnitzer Steel recently added hard surfacing to one area of their site. “I think whatever they have done is of no value in terms of protecting the aquifer,” she says.

Ross sums up her feelings on the issue. “Water is the key to life. When are we going to wake up and start protecting it?”

Pauline Hunt and June Ross are concerned about Cassidy Aquifer. Photo: Kerith Waddington

Schedule of Events

It’s time to get ready for the annual “HomeTown Tourist Weekend on June 17 & 18, 2023. HomeTown Tourist Weekend is a time to discover and rediscover places, things, and activities happening here in your backyard. Community participants are offering special activities and discounts to entice you to explore your communitiy.

For updates visit take5.ca/hometowntourist or Facebook

June 13–17

Citrus Cycles: Get a FREE ebike test ride when you book an appointment online at citruscycles.ca/testride; 250-245-0402

June 17

Champagne Hill Botanicals Wild Herbal Tea-Making workshop: 10am–12pm; registration RDN https://anc.ca.apm.activecommunities.com/rdnrecreation/

Hill Dash: 11am, hosted by the LDBA, High Street and First Ave., 250-245-3079

Running of the Balls LRCA Fundraiser: 12:30pm, High Street and First Ave., 250-245-3079

Top Drawer Boutique: 10am–4pm; 20% off high quality new & used, 411 First Ave.; the-top-drawer.ca

Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club’s Free Family Fishing Event: Stocking our pond with trout for the kids; free lunch and prizes; at the Bush Creek Hatchery; for info, Jason 250-245-7277

The Ladysmith Health Care Auxiliary Thrift Store: 10am–4pm; special deals on items for Dad; 910 First Ave.

The Ladysmith Health Food Store: 10am–5pm; special 10% off sunscreen; 531 First Ave.

Salamander Books: $2 book shelves. 535 First Ave. Saltair District Residents Assoc. Neighbourhood Yard Sale. Info Sue 250-924-6924

June 17–18

Cowichan Kayak Club: 2-for-1 annual membership; cowichankayakclub@outlook.com

LDHS Museum: 11am–3pm; shop the museum, new displays and family friendly activities; 721 First Ave., 250-245-0423

Ladysmith Golf Club Golf: $44 for family of 4 and $12 for youth under 21; 380 Davis Rd.

Purple Pigeon Treasures: 20% off Father’s Day sale; 440 First Ave.; purplepigeontreasures.com

Sealegs Kayaking: Rent 1 kayak or SUP for 1 hour and get a rental of the same value for the same hour for free; Transfer Beach; SealegsKayaking.com

Transfer Beach Food Trucks: 11am–7pm; schedule facebook. com/transferbeachfoodtruckconcession

Yellow Point Farms, Farm Store and Petting Farm: Open Fri.–Sun.; visit the baby goats, lambs, and chicks; Island Farms soft serve ice cream cones are back; fresh strawberries and other local produce available; 5756 Yellow Point Rd.

Empress Acres Farm Store: Pasture-raised farm large eggs, on sale for $6/dozen; by the big rock at 2974 Haslam Rd.

Girls Night Out: A musical fundraiser for Yellow Point Drama Group; over 19, as liquor will be available; Saturday, June 17, at 7:30pm and Sunday, June 18, 2pm; at the Cedar Hall; tickets at www.yellowpointdramagroup.org or at the door.

Cowichan Camerata String Orchestra Celebrates Spring: The Camerata String Orchestra June 17, 7pm, at Ladysmith Little Theatre; info@cowichancamerata.org or at the door.

June 18

Public Tour at Wildwood Eco Forest: 1pm start; 2929 Crane Road, in Yellow Point; info at www.ecoforestry.ca

Ladysmith Little Theatre Open House: Noon-4pm, 4985 Christie Rd., ladysmiththeatre.com

Carol’s Crafters Artisan Craft Sale: 10am–3pm; new vendors welcome; North Oyster Community Centre, 13467 Cedar Rd.; petespensandmore@shaw.ca

Cedar Farmers’ Market: 10am–2pm; perfect for a Father’s Day last-minute gift; 1984 Woobank Rd., Cedar; visit cedarfarmersmarket.org

RDN Area A Cedar, South Wellington, Cassidy & Yellow Point

Community connection is a defi ning feature of our area and makes our home an incredible place to live. We look out for one another and give a helping hand when needed. Not all communities have this sense of connection. With all the change happening around the Nanaimo area and a signi ficant number of people moving into our community, it’s important to be mindful of what creates that special quality. Awareness of what leads to that sense of connection allows us to take steps to preserve and maintain it. Ultimately, it comes down to the kindness and generosity of community members. For some, it is taking the time to offer your help and often your skills, experience and equipment. We are a community with a wealth of skills and the ability to get it done. For all the times that you’ve helped someone stuck, provided childcare coverage, contributed to a home project or just had someone’s back — thank you. It may be a few hours of your time, but the impact of your generosity goes well beyond those minutes. Others create community connection by donating their time and energy to create meaningful community-building events like the Cedar Hall dinners, the SWACA potluck and dance, the Cedar Elementary Spring Fling, block watch meetings, community cleanups and painting at the Cedar Heritage Centre, to name a few. These events give us the opportunity to get to know our neighbours, make new friends and see familiar faces. The connections we make at events like these are the building blocks of community. It is through these encounters that we gain a sense of belongingness to this community and an identity as community members. It is a positive feedback loop: the greater sense of community that we have, the more likely we are to help one another, the greater the sense of community we have ...

These events occur because people offer their time to organizations and

they understand the value of doing so.

I want to thank the volunteers at the Cedar Hall, Cedar School and Community Enhancement Society (CSCES), the school PACs, Nanaimo-Cedar Farmer’s Institute, the South Wellington and Area Community Association (SWACA), Yellow Point Ecological Society and any other organizations. There are so many people that deserve mention, but that would take the rest of this article and I would be sure to miss someone. So I will leave it at the organization’s names.

It is difficult to measure the impact of these people, but I want to express appreciation for their efforts. Without community volunteers, we may not have the iconic Cedar Hall — can you image our community without it? Because of community volunteers, our kids got to dunk their principal and then talk about it for days afterwards. It was community volunteers that saved old community schools from demolition and have and are currently turning them into recreational centres for the benefit of all of Area A. Plus, community volunteers help keep our taxes low while ensuring that we have amenities and some activities.

Let’s also acknowledge our volunteer fi re departments who regularly donate their time for training to ensure that in an emergency, they can keep us, our animals and our homes protected (at least as much as possible). Our volunteer fi re fighters also attend school functions and create exciting and safe Halloween events, among other activities. I have never seen fi re department involvement in bigger towns the way we see it in our community. Our fi re chiefs for Cedar (Percy Tipping) and Cassidy/South Wellington (Ron Gueulette) are well known for serving our community’s best interests and are well respected outside of Area A.

Three heartfelt cheers for folks who make a better place to live.

Let’s return to what I said earlier about being mindful of what creates this special quality of our community. I use the word mindful to indicate that it is something that you need to hold in

your mind or bring awareness to. I am purposeful in my word choice because this incredible sense of community can be lost amidst a growing and changing population.

Community building requires intent. Taking the time to help others requires a choice. Both involve generosity. We have lots of people who are new to the area and all of us are shaking off the COVID hangover. Now is an ideal time to reach out to a community association and join in their efforts. They would love to have new members join and work together to create opportunities to get to know each other and have some fun. Much like we need to rebuild our social connections following the COVID years, we also need to rebuild our community connections and social infrastructure. It does not happen without intent.

If you are new to this community, please know that one of the best ways to learn about your new home and get to know community members is by joining these associations and working together to create community events. Whether you are new here or your last name is on the street signs, I invite you to connect with a community association to see how you can contribute. You’ll likely get more out of it than you give.

I'd love to hear from you, 250-2687359 or jessica.stanley@rdn.bc.ca.

CVRD Area H North Oyster/ Diamond

The CVRD is hosting a public information meeting regarding Schnitzer’s application for a zoning amendment at 6 p.m., on June 19, 2023, at the Aggie Hall in Ladysmith.

In the April edition of TAKE 5, I wrote, “There is great interest in the community about the zoning amendment application for the Simpson Road property that Schnitzer uses for its metal recycling operations. The application was initiated in 2016. The last time it came to the CVRD Board was in 2021 and direction was given to have the CVRD and applicant draw up a covenant to detail what would be required if the zoning amend-

ment were to be further considered. A covenant is a written agreement or promise usually under seal between two or more parties, especially for the performance of some action. In the case of a land use covenant, it is registered on the title of the property and stays with the property even when it is sold.”

Recent Meetings - CVRD staff prepared a report for the May 3, 2023, Electoral Areas Service Committee (EASC) meeting. The staff report stated a draft covenant had not yet been agreed to by the applicant. A large number of concerned citizens came to the EASC meeting and had a chance to speak during the public input period. When the application came up on the agenda, the applicant stated that they would agree to the proposed covenant. However, after discussion, the committee passed a motion to recommend that the Board deny the application, and possible legal/technical issues resulted in a request for advice prior to a Board decision.

Fast forward to May 10, 2023, and the Board received legal advice and decided to move forward with a public information meeting to ensure procedural fairness in the application process. While the EASC heard from a handful of individuals, there was not a fulsome opportunity for the applicant to speak to their proposal or for the public to ask questions and provide comments regarding the application.

A large number of people from our community who were at the EASC meeting came to the Board meeting. I would like thank those who emailed their concerns and those who were able attend and support those that were able to speak publicly. I encourage everyone to attend the upcoming meeting.

At a public information meeting, there is an opportunity for questions and answers. All directors are invited to attend. The proceedings are recorded. At the time of writing this, I am not aware of all the details — it’s only been two working days since the Board meeting and I would like to thank the staff at the CVRD for how quickly this got organized. There will be ads in TAKE 5 (see page 3) and local papers, plus a mail out to residents in Area H.

What Happens Next? The application will come to the EASC for a decision once all the records from the public information meeting are available and staff have time to complete a report. For now, the focus is the public information meeting. Mark the public information meeting on your calendar. Prepare questions in advance that you have for the CVRD or the applicant. Watch for more details from ads in TAKE 5, local newspapers and in the mail.ase contact me if you have any question: 250-510-5930 or ben.maartman@cvrd.bc.ca.

New gardens at LIS

BY MARINA SACHT

Work is underway for a new garden program at the Ladysmith Intermediate School (LIS). The south side of the grounds is being transformed into ten garden beds that the students will cultivate.

And no one is more excited than LIS teacher Kim Greenwood, who has championed this program along with others at the school. Greenwood, who is also an organic master gardener, sent in the proposal to the school district, which was met with overwhelming approval. Along with the ten beds, a water tap will also be installed.

And there’s been lots of interest from the community, including the Town of Ladysmith’s Parks, Recreation and Culture Department.

Matt Arnett, a Child and Youth programmer for the Town of Ladysmith, oversees the summer camps held at the Frank Jameson Community Centre. He is also an avid gardener and looks forward to participating in the gardens. “It just kind of all snowballed into this amazing partnership where our students who go to their summer camps will be harvesting the food and tending the LIS gardens in the summer. And then the summer camps students will plant for the LIS students in August, and they will be able to harvest food throughout the winter.”

Arnett says the garden offers an opportunity for kids with no gardening experience to get their hands in the dirt. “There are so many connections to all aspects of health.”

Work should be completed by the beginning of June, but the water access still needs to be sorted out, explained Principal Laura King.

“When we got the news, it was pretty exciting because the district is working on its environmental stewardship and sustainability goal. And this fits in beautifully with that. We have a lot of food security issues in all communities. And so it also helps provide some food the kids can harvest and take home,” says King, who adds a lot of credit goes to Greenwood, who worked with other teachers and helped bring Arnett aboard.

Initial funding is coming from the

PAC to purchase tools and some plants to get things started, but Greenwood admits to eyeballing local plant sale stands. Donations of any extra vegetables from local gardeners would be appreciated. “That would be incredible to have donations from the community to get the garden going,” says Greenwood.

“It creates that connection in town. People are driving by and going, ‘Those are my kale plants. Those are my tomato plants.’ And then everybody’s invested,” says Arnett.

Both Arnett and Greenwood practise what they preach. They both have homes in Ladysmith and have turned their front yards into vegetable gardens. Arnett also recently started a non-profit society called Front Yard Food Society to turn spaces into community gardens.

Principal Laura thanks the school district’s support in installing the garden. “It speaks to the commitment they have to the school. And believing in us to make sure it’s maintained.” She’s also grateful for the growing partnership with the community.

When looking at the garden site, Greenwood is already thinking of the possibilities. “If we had a bed of thimbleberry and Oregon grape, we could make indigenous jams. ... There are so many places this project can go.”

Next year, her classroom will go a shade green. “Because my room faces the ocean. I get beautiful light, so my room is almost like a greenhouse. I will have all kinds of stu ff growing in my classroom to support the beds and the camps.” There are talks about doing an indigenous plants garden for some teachings in Hul’q’umi’num’.

“I think it’s going to be a beautiful school project,” says King. If you have extra plants to donate, contact, Kim Greenwood at Kimberley.Greenwood@sd68.bc.ca.

Ladysmith Intermediate School Principal Laura King, Kim Greenwood and Matt Arnett, looking forward to gardens.

Photo: Marina Sacht

Garry oak meadows - special places

BY PAMELA WALKER

Garry oak meadows are rare, special places. And we just happen to have one in the heart of Yellow Point at Yellow Point Park. Covered with broom for years, it has now been restored — thanks to the work of one warrior in particular whose name is Susan.

What makes a Garry oak meadow special? Well, it has oak trees, specifically the native variety that are quite different to other oaks, except for their distinctly oak-shaped leaves. But in order to have those, you have to have poor, rocky soil so water runs on top of the soil and fir trees don’t grow and block out the sun. That sunshine and poor soil bring with it bright wildflowers, such as blue camas,

white Easter (fawn) lily, and yellow western buttercup and perhaps the satin flower, shooting star, death camas, chocolate lily and the little monkey flower. And stands of snowberry and ocean spray amongst licorice fern, rock mosses and soft green grasses.

Before the settlers arrived, it was the women of the First Peoples and the butterflies who cared for these distinct meadows. It was an important job, as the prolific blue camas (Camassia quamash) provided a food staple more precious than the potato was to the Irish. A camas bulb is a carbohydrate with more protein, pound for pound, than steelhead trout. Only the large bulbs were harvested; the smaller ones were left to grow for another season.

An estimated 30 million pounds of camas were picked to feed the population of Cowichan each year. And more were harvested to be given away or used as currency. Wealth was determined not by how much you had, but by how much you could give away. The camas trade occurred from as far south as Mexico and as far north as Alaska. Obviously, there were more camas around before the 1800s than there is today. Indeed, it is said that people mistook the blue-coloured camas fields for huge lakes.

So how did these women cultivate so much? They used a number of techniques, including low-intensity burns as well as composting and mulching using clam shells and fish guts to fertilize the soil.

How did the butter flies help? The checkerspot butter flies were considered the guardians of the camas, as they would

lay their eggs in the holes where the bulb had been cultivated. As their eggs developed during the winter months, they would be the sentinels of this most precious of plants.

So important were the camas (kwetlal) to the people (mustimuhw) that they named the month of May Punhwe’num, which translates to “when the camas blooms.”

Today, we have less than five per cent of the original Garry oak meadows left. They, along with the camas, nodding onion, chocolate lily, fool’s onion, and the red-listed flower the deltoid balsam, whose indigenous name has even been lost, are precious commodities for the heart and soul and for the other creatures who require this unique environment to survive.

That is why, when some yahoo decides to take his truck for a joy ride in our tiny meadow at Yellow Point Park, we all have to shake our heads with sadness. Butter flies cannot guard against massive truck tires, so we have to thank Murray McNabb for placing huge boulders along the road instead. And we have to thank the generations of Indigenous women who cared for the Garry oak meadows throughout the ages.

Special thanks to the Islands Trust Conservancy (www.islandstrust.bc.ca) and the Garry Oak Ecosystem Recovery Team (www.goert.ca) for their amazing zoom presentation called “P’hwulhp (Garry Oak) Meadows: Understanding a Living Cultural Landscape,” about the restoration work they are doing from their home on Salt Spring Island.

(above) Monkey blossom. Photo: Nikki Toxopeus (right) Western buttercup and shooting star. Photo: Steven Méthot

Hitting the road in style with Nomad Monster

BY MARINA SACHT

It’s big. It’s red. And wherever it goes -- people are talking about it.

It is a truck/highway tractor turned motorhome, but nothing like you may have seen before. It features two stories, a spiral staircase, a pop-up roof, big screen TVs, sliding beds, a library, a drop-down deck, and even a garage for tools and toys.

The Nomad Monster is a 2004 Volvo VNL with a Cummins ISX 15L 450 hp engine. The trailer is a standard production commercial 53-foot drop-deck trailer that was re-registered as a 'travel trailer'. The total length of the unit is 73 feet, and it is 13' 5" high when travelling. When stationary, the roof pops up for an additional foot of headroom. It is 102" wide.

And every inch of the behemoth has been a labour of love for Clayton Balabanov and Teresa Davies.

“Ever since we met, we always talked about eventually selling and starting to travel. I like seeing the countryside and moving from one place to the next,” says Teresa. The couple recently returned from their fi rst season on the road and are doing some upgrades in Saltair before returning to their nomadic lifestyle later this summer.

To realize their dream, the couple retired from work, sold their house, and downsized. They moved into a tiny basement suite to focus on creating their “not so Tiny Home. Five years later and they are on the road.

And now they have travel and adventure plus all the comforts of home.

On the roof, there are 20 250w solar panels. The house batteries are five 100 Watt-hour 48 Volt lithium "power wall" units giving us 50kwh electrical storage with a maximum charge/ discharge of 500 amps. The inverter feeds a 100 amp split phase standard home distribution breaker panel that is enough to power everything simultaneously.

Clayton's background includes robotics, computer software, and interior design, has always been involved in sustainable living-type adventures. They have installed two pellet stoves, and two heat pumps. “Pretty much everything is run on solar,

Clayton Balabanov and Teresa Davies celebrating Christmas on the upper deck of the Monster Nomad. Photo submitted.

so no need to plug in,” he says. One of the signi ficant issues, especially down south, can be water. So they are installing a commercial reverse osmosis system that will allow them to use and conserve water. “It will take even gray water and give me 100 percent clean water that is drinkable,” explains Clayton.

Once fi nished, they can go three months without having to fill up. The fuel tanks on the truck hold 950 litres. "So a couple thousand dollars to fill it up, and then we're good for about 3000 kilometres," says Clayton. To conserve fuel, they use their Goldwing bike and side-by-side 4x4 for touring and exploring the surrounding areas leaving the Nomad Monster parked.

The project was a joint effort, with Teresa doing most of the shopping and helping with painting, staining, lacquering or getting groceries to keep them going. “I'm not good at wallpapering, so there was a lot of swearing going on there.”

Every adventure has challenges, from weather to expensive

tow jobs when they blow a tire. You can catch them on an episode of Highway Thru Hell on Discovery Channel.

The Nomad attracts a lot of attention wherever they go. “People are always asking -- is this your home? Do you live in there?” They have caught people’s imagination. “Even the New York Post wants to do a story,” says Clayton. The Nomad Monster was recently featured on Tony Homes Giant Journeys on YouTube, attracting over a million views.

You can follow their adventures by subscribing to their YouTube channel at Nomad Monster.

Now, instead of saying go big or go home, Clayton and Teresa say, go big and go home. And their advice to those who dream of hitting the road -- don't wait. Just do it.

Monster Nomad in Saltair. Photo: Marina Sacht

FOR SALE

FISH FISH FISH. Buy direct from the guy who caught it! High-quality salmon, lingcod, rock fish. All fish blast frozen at sea. Satisfaction guaranteed! Contact Jim at oceandancer. wallace@gmail.com or 250-245-5957/250-7391123.

RV HAULER RETIRED. Items for sale: 5th wheel hitch, tires, mirrors plus miscellaneous items. Email rvhauler2012@shaw.ca.

FREE

FREE - Yamaha electronic organ and bench available. Works OK. Please call 250-245-9818

EMPLOYMENT

SUMMER INTERN. TAKE 5 Print & Digital Media has an opening for a summer intern to assist in publishing a monthly print and digital magazine. Good communication, writing and people skills are a must. This rewarding position will offer an intern experience in all aspects of publishing and community engagement. To qualify, the applicant must be enrolled in or a recent graduate (within 3 years) of a program related to the job at an accredited post-secondary institution. $18.50/ hour, 22 hours starting June 5 to September 22, 2023 (or slightly later as needed). Interested but not living in or near Ladysmith, BC? The successful applicant can also apply directly to the Magazine Association of BC for assistance with moving costs, a rental subsidy and businessrelated expenses associated with their work for TAKE 5 to a maximum of $2,125. Position open until filled, or until June 10, whichever is first. To apply, please email editor@take5.ca with a resume and cover letter.

TAKE 5 ADS WORK! 250-245-7015

COMPUTER TEACHER. Computer teacher is needed for a senior to learn how to operate a computer, along with basic computer skills. Contact Tom 250-667-8445.

HOUSING/RENTALS

AVAILABLE. Nov. 10–April 15, 2024. Winter rental in Ladysmith. Two bedroom, 3 bath, furnished, 2,300 sq ft., quiet, Creekside ½ duplex in a 55+ strata. $2,000 month, includes utilities; 2 car parking. Dog allowed under 20 lbs. Call 250245-9787.

RENTAL NEEDED. Senior is looking for room and board or small suite rental. Has a small dog. Location South Nanaimo to Chemainus. Needs to be on one level, walker friendly. Call Tom 250667-8445.

ENTERTAINMENT

NEED ENTERTAINING? Sing-a-long with the Sunshine Girls. Judy Durban & Val Galvin. Children’s parties, Senior’s homes and more. valgalvin123@hotmail.com or call 250-246-3979.

FARM FRESH

EMPRESS ACRES LITTLE FARM STORE. Pasture-raised: pork sides sale at $4.90/lb; pork meat boxes, specialty sausages, bacon, ind. cuts, eggs, spring greens, vegetables, flowers & more; open 7 days/wk; 2974 Haslam Rd. www.empressacres.ca. Email marlene@empressacres.ca; for pork sides & boxes, call or text Simon at 604-578-0646

TAKE 5 ADS WORK! 250-245-7015.

ACTIVITIES

CRAFT FAIR. Every Sunday Carol’s Artisans: wood turned pens, quilting, woodworking, amazing sewing and knitting, interchangeable jewelry, hats, pottery, preserves, jams and MORE. 13467 Cedar Road 10am–3pm. New vendors welcome. Contact: petespensandmore@shaw.ca (Please note : this is now the corrected email if we did not respond before, please email again.)

HEALTH & WELLNESS

TAI CHI for mental & physical health. Beginner class Monday mornings. Ongoing class every Wednesday morning. For class time and location and more information, visit www.taichinanaimo. org or call Sara 250-245-1466.

AQUA FIT. Private aqua fit classes are available in your pool for yourself or add in some friends. Any level is offered. For more information, ellybythesea@gmail.com.

BUSINESS

I CAN EDIT. Copy editing, proofreading, structural editing and more. Fiction or nonfiction, web content and eBook prep. For more information, contact editican@gmail.com.

HOME & YARD

KB HANDYMAN AND YARD WORKS. Minor carpentry work, decks, fences, power washing, tree pruning, yard clean up, lawn fertilizing, mowing. Seniors discount. Contact Karl kbhandymanandyardworks@ gmail.com or 250-714-2738.

HEART LAKE ROOFING for all your roofing repairs 250-668-9195.

ALL ACRES providing all aspects of tree work. Pruning, falling, hedging, dangerous tree removal. Fully insured. Professional work at reasonable rates. Call 250-246-1265.

MAKE IT NICE qualified, experienced, gardening and small fruit-tree pruning. Available for private, residential gardens. Please call 250-754-9346.

CONCRETE RESULTS. Foundations, retaining walls, patios, driveways, walks and stairs. Full forming and finishing. 40 years’ experience. Email Gord at concreteresults@ live.com.

PLUMBING SERVICES. Journeyman Red Seal Plumber with over 30 years’ experience for repairs, leaks, installations or renovations. Free estimates and reasonable rates. Call Joe (leave a message) or text 250-246-5883.

PETS

PROFESSIONAL PET CARE SERVICE. “Leash ’em & walk ’em” with Marlena. I have Animal First Aid, CPR and criminal record check. My service for all pet includes dog walking, home care visits, overnight in your home and much more. As my love is yours! Call 250-246-9368.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Follow TAKE 5 on Facebook for event postings

June 7 – Chemainus Classic Car Club & Public Market, Wednesdays @ 4:30pm. Chemainus Public Market, Waterwheel Park

June 11 – Chemainus Classic Concerts 2pm 250748-8383

June 17 – Saltair District Residents Associations, Neighbourhood Yard Sale

Local journalist exposé of Canadian news media talk

BY MARSHALL SOULES

Marc Edge is a relative newcomer to Ladysmith, but he is already making a stir.

He will be presenting a free talk on June 10 at the Ladysmith Museum, based on his latest book, The Postmedia Effect: How Vulture Capitalism is Wrecking Our News (New Star Books, 2023).

Originally from Burnaby, Edge was a journalist for Southam Newspapers in Vancouver for many years, travelled the Paci fic in his 40-foot ketch Markenurh (now moored at Raven Point Marina in Ladysmith Harbour), and taught journalism and writing at universities from Singapore to Malta.

The Postmedia Effect is required reading for anyone interested in discovering how and why Canadian print news has been hijacked. As a long-time journalist with two degrees in business, Edge is ideally suited to expose the maddening state of the Canadian newspaper industry. His book on Canadian newspapers should be making the news, if any news can be found (apart from TAKE 5!).

In Edge’s reporting, the problems with Canadian news can be attributed to consolidated foreign ownership by US hedge funds; misleading accounting practises; competition between print and online news delivery; and misguided government oversight and regulation.

It is a myth that print journalism is always losing money — it can still be profitable according to Edge’s analysis — but since most of the largest Canadian newspapers are owned by US hedge funds, profits can still be returned to investors by carrying large debts and reducing the costs of reporting and production. The hedge funds push their holdings to the brink of bankruptcy, sell off assets and return profits to debt holders instead of shareholders.

To make this arrangement work, and hopefully attract government subsidies, newspapers use “creative” accounting to obscure their ability to make profits while highlighting their losses from competition and technological change. Talking with Marc, I quickly learned that it takes a person with a business degree to understand how this fi nancialization plays out. I don’t have a business degree, but Marc has spent his career writing about complex issues in accessible language.

We have all seen how news journalism has changed in the last 20 years: there are fewer newspapers, with fewer reporters doing the digging and more advertising. Competition from online news sources has mushroomed, especially after Facebook and Google entered the news business after making billions on connecting friends, searching for information and selling personal data to third parties. Surveillance capitalism has reached pandemic proportions!

Unbelievably, Canadian newspapers, whether foreign owned or not, want subsidies from Canadian taxpayers to keep them a float. At this juncture, we need discerning federal regulation through the CRTC or elsewhere to untangle regulatory complexities, enforce Canadian ownership requirements and support the industry to pay its own way.

This is an important and complicated story if we hope to understand the media environment we live with. We need information; we need good research and writing; we need important news to be available in a timely way. Otherwise, as a society, we will be led down the garden path by modern day pipers.

You will have an opportunity to hear Marc Edge talk about his book on June 10 at 1 p.m. at the Ladysmith Museum. The Postmedia Effect is available in local bookstores or online.

Marshall Soules (PhD) is the former chair of Media Studies at VIU and author of Media, Persuasion and Propaganda (2015) and, with BW Powe, The Charge in the Global Membrane (2019). He has lived in Ladysmith since 2000.

Author Marc Edge with his boat Markenurh behind him. Edge will be giving a talk at the Ladysmith Museum. Photo submitted.