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Letters Slack Point, Ladysmith’s off leash park Why is the gate to Slack Beach opened when it is an “offleash dog area”? There are now cars coming and going, motorcycles and quads. There are pitfires from the young-uns with broken glass, beer bottles, garbage and other disgusting things. And then there are the wrecked cars and boats washed up on shore. It’s just so lovely! I’m scared to let my dog off-leash down there now. - Tracy Watson
Cedar Skatepark News Cedar Skatepark Association is in shock. We did not get the provincial grant money “Towns for Tomorrow”, even though we fit perfectly within their mandate to encourage and motivate youth to improve their fitness and for all of us to take a step toward becoming a healthier community. This news was definitely a blow but we are not going away and will continue to fight for our youth to have a safe place to play. If you or anyone you know can help us raise the $240,000 that is left please contact Vicki at 250-722-3767 or vsuddaby@ shaw.ca. To receive a tax receipt for a donation contact the Regional District or contact the Recreational Programmer, Tracy
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Stuart at 1644 MacMillan Road, 250-722-0123. Our next fundraiser is a golf tournament at Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd., Sept 24. To register please call Vicki at 250-722-3767.
Czar of Canada - not funny Thank you for printing the “poem” “Czar of Canada” in your June edition of “Take 5”. How unfortunate that the few (40%) that voted for Harper can’t stand free speech. It must be frustrating not being able too control all of the media. Speaking of control .. I did note Mr. Barney’s caricature of Harper showed not one hair out of place - how life like! Looking forward to future poems by Mr. Barney in your magazine. - Stephen B. Smith
Relay for Life To the great staff of TAKE 5 Thank you so much for your support of the Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Life Fashion Show. Our event was a huge success and had a great attendance, thanks in part to your publicity. With the help of pur community we raised $5432 for this very worthwhile event. - Jillian Easterbrook, coordinator
Five celebrate 80 I would like to thank you for printing the article regarding the Birthday celebration for the five North Oyster residents who were turning 80. The “committee” were concerned that we would miss people who would like to come. A number of people who might otherwise have been missed saw the article and joined in the fun. So, thank you. To wish Greg Wyndlow, Keith Wyndlow, Gordon Price, Geordie MacQuarrie and Irene Trudell a “Happy Birthday” over 150 friends and family gathered at Steldt Farms on Saturday, July 9. The DeFranes had a pig cooked on a spit. The other participants brought an incredible selection of food for the potluck including a huge birthday cake. The sun was shining and the company was great as people from 80+ to two years old joined in. - Lois Perkins
With their birthday cake from the left: Keith Wyndlow, Greg Wyndlow, Irene Trudell, Gordon Price and Geordie MacQuarrie
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Spion Kop We in Ladysmith know little of our history, and its ties to Ladysmith, South Africa. A good example of my lack of knowledge is I never really understood the significance of the title of our high school annual, Spion Kop. I knew it was African for “spy hill” and that it was key to the siege of Ladysmith. I came across a video about Spion Kop, which is excellent in its telling of the battle for it. The video starts out talking about football and the relationship to the football clubs of Liverpool and area. It then goes into tell the history of the battle and Liverpool’s relationship with the battle. I think you will find it of interest and it will certainly educate you about about the siege of Ladysmith. I particularly found the parts about Winston Churchill
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and Gandhi most interesting as it confirmed much of what I had heard about their roles in the siege of Ladysmith. We have an incredible history and we should do more to make others aware of it. http://youtube/nQq859tTto4 - Rob Johnson
For more letters visit our website. www.take5.ca Letters to the Editor are welcome but subject to space and editing. Letters published do not necessarily reflect the opinion of TAKE 5. Write PO Box 59, Ladysmith, BC, V9G 1A1, editor@ take5.ca, or post your comments directly at www.take5.ca
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Morden Mine a unique relic of early mining days at the Morden Colliery Historic Provincial Park. Jerry the Moose. Photo: BC Parks
100th birthday Parks celebration Celebrate BC Parks 100th birthday, Saturday, August 20th, 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, at Morden Colliery Historic Provincial Park Join BC Parks and Friends of Morden Mine in celebrating the 100th anniversary of the establishment of its first provincial park, Strathcona on Vancouver Island. The BC Parks system is now the most extensive in Canada and one of the largest in the world. Morden Colliery became part of the system in January 1972, designated as a provincial historic park for its unique status as the only above-ground reinforced concrete coal tipple on Vancouver Island. On August 20th, new interpretive signs about Morden Colliery’s historic reinforced
concrete headframe and tipple will be unveiled. There will be tours of the old mine site and its still existing structures, refreshments, birthday cake, and hopefully a visit from Jerry the Moose, BC Parks’ popular mascot. For more information about Morden Colliery and Friends of Morden Mine, check out www.mordenmine.com. For more information about BC Parks history check out www.env.govt.bc.ca/ bcparks/events/history.
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Trail Trappings “Happy trails to you, until we meet again. Happy trails to you, keep smilin’ until then..” - Dale Evans, Roy Rogers (and Trigger too!) There you are at the trail head, a long and winding path ahead, sweat and challenge, your way through parts unknown yet to be found, the promise of new, of time, of adventure. And with a philosophical bent, pack shouldered, saddled up, bike wheels spinning, you are charged with the moment, breathe in the glory. Eyes asparkle, light of heart, a breezy change fills the air. A wondrous dream of reality is
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about to begin. In the moment, alive, senses perked, open to whatever comes your way. The world beckons, welcomes, invites your exploration, and appreciation of its tumultuous excess. Of nature’s full to brimming, breathtaking beauty and diversity, microscopic glories and panoramic vistas. All await, ripe and full, bounty and limitless horizon, splendorous, intriguing, beguiling. It is your destiny, this time and place, to be there. To be, wild and free. To open yourself to the lessons of life, the vagaries of nature, the weather and tempests, to unravel time’s moments and places, tastes and smells, and the heady whisper of what’s to come. It is a calling that brings you closer to humankind’s heritage, our ways and wantings across the ages. When there were dragons, myth and legend as guide along a narrow trail. Open skies, passages, arduous days and quiet nights. Portent, meaning and dangers to meet; moments of reckoning to be claimed by those who would take the first step. More than you might know, or hope to
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understand, the siren’s call, an echo, unrelenting, beguiling, love. A twist of fate, turn in the trail, glance over your shoulder, and there you are at the crossroads. Drifting through the high plains, meandering a flowery meadow, taking pause under ancient forests. Go on, catch your bearings, hold a deep breath, sigh, sip from the cascading streams of life, take the path less traveled. The choice is yours. Ephemeral threads, lost thoughts, and childhood rewards along the way. A fleeting glimpse of the universe waiting to be plucked, savoured, nurtured. Beyond our ken, more than we are, and greater than the sum of our being, a part of us beyond our reckoning ...the trail leads us on. Laurie Gourlay has worked with environmental groups for 30-odd years, farms 20 odd-acres organically on Vancouver Island with odd life-partner Jackie Moad, and finds himself in a quandry on the odd occasion, musing about how Thistle Consulting Services will keep on the path of actively seeking local solutions to global challenges.
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Growing Community Gardens BY ROB JOHNSON Located on the grounds of Kiwi Cove Lodge is Ladysmith’s first community garden. It is a different model for a community garden. It is operated by volunteers with two goals: To grow fresh produce for food bank recipients by raising good wholesome for our local food bank, and to create inclusive hands-on learning opportunities for some of our citizens. In 2006 an informal partnership was formed with the Ladysmith Resources Centre, FACT (Ladysmith Food Action Coordination Team), Community Link and individual community members to get help tending the garden and to achieve a greater benefit from it. A significant amount of funds were donated in 2008 by the Ladysmith Safeway store to show support for the involvement of persons with developmental disabilities. These funds allow tools and implements to be purchased as well as seeds and some of the plants. Funds from the Vancouver Foundation and Community Living BC support an honorarium for hard working Sid Johnson the garden and volunteer co-ordinator, who assists with the creation of a garden plan, supports the volunteers and oversees the planting and schedule. Most of the seedlings are donated by nurseries and the garden plan may be adjusted for what is at hand. Bean seedlings are grown by students attend-
Bill Tillman and Peggy Kolosoff growing good things in the Community Garden. Photo: Rob Johnson
ing North Oyster school and children attending the Stz’uminus child care centre. The garden is 124’ X 34’ or roughly a quarter acre. Each spring the entire area is plowed by the owner and often roto-tilled by a local farmer. At present there is a core group of six doing the vast majority of the work along with the help of some of the clients from the Community Link Adults with developmental disabilities program,. They work in the gardens Mondays and Wednesdays during the growing season. The ongoing challenge has been getting enough persons to do the hands-on work. Each year the word is put out to community groups and individuals alike to join the garden and to enjoy the benefits of growing real food. With more help the garden could be enlarged and then be able to help more people in need. They are always looking for people who like to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air of a garden while knowing that they are helping others. Last year workers raised and donated over 2,000 lbs, of food for the Ladysmith Food Bank. “Without this supply of fresh vegetables many of the Food Banks clients and their families would have to go without, in addition it means that the Food Bank can use what limited cash they have for other food,” says Dennis Lait, Executive Director of the Ladysmith Resources Centre. The Food Bank’s Kit Willmot says that “the Community Gardens are a valuable part of our food supply and our clients look foreword each week to the Gardens contribution of fresh vegetables to our program”
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Protection Island. (Left:) Paul Grey paddling by protection Island. Photo: Lyle Wilkinson.
Paddling Nanaimo Harbour, Protection Island, Newcastle Island BY PAUL GREY Rounding Gallows Point in my kayak with my friend Lyle Wilkinson, I was sure I could hear voices saying, “Look at the ship, mommy. It’s on fire. Can we go look?” A lady with two children approached the burning ship, which had just been beached. Not much had happened on Protection Island lately and this was exciting. The S.S. Oscar had attempted to round the point, but a winter gale had forced them back the day before. The steamer, loaded with 1910 cas-
es of powder in its hold and 1800 kegs of black powder on deck, was a virtual bomb. The next morning, the captain cast off into a wall of heavy snow. Suddenly, they discovered a fire burning in the bunker coal and it couldn’t be extinguished. The crew abandoned ship, but in their haste lost their lifeboat. Desperate to get his men off, the ship was driven onto shore. Escaping from the fire, a crew member grabbed the women and her children, just reaching safety before the explosion destroyed the boat and the Protection Island pithead and coalmine wharves. In Nanaimo, a rush of air swept through the town blowing out windows, stampeding horses and buggies, and scaring the wits out of the town people. Explosions usually meant death at a local mine. There were no deaths that day on January 15, 1913. Kayaking around Protection and Newcastle Islands is a veritable trip into history. Armed with Bill Merilee’s book Newcastle Island: A Place of Discovery or one of the local historical accounts its amazing what one can discover while enjoying a scenic paddle in the immediate Nanaimo area. Traveling from Gallows Point to Mark Bay on Newcastle Island Provincial Park, I remember reading an
account of coal miners hundreds of feet under the channel telling the time by the synchronicity of a ship`s schedule and the particular rhythm or reverberation of the same ship`s propeller. There are several places to land along the park`s southern shoreline for further historical tours. Behind the caretaker`s cabin is the quarry area. This is a great place to explore with children. Eight thousand tons of sandstone blocks were first removed from the site for the construction of the San Francisco Mint Building. It`s hard to believe it was sold for 3 dollars a ton! A small trail takes you past some pulp stones and up a small hill to a pile of blocks. On a second trip around Newcastle Island I launched again from the Brechin boat ramp and crossed to Shaft Point and entered Departure Bay. Along the island`s shoreline from Shaft Point to Tyne Point is Saltery Beach. In the late 1880`s salteries were established by the Japanese. They controlled a good part of the salmon and herring industry. The Japanese success was not welcome by many people in Nanaimo. Suspiciously, a 1912 fire destroyed four salteries. If you beachcomb you might find some remnants of this period of time. People have
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been combing this beach for decades and found a number of interesting items. Paddling around Newcastle Island is a good half-day trip. Along the Salish Sea Newcastle Island shoreline, you might see Giovando Lookout on top of Nares Point or you might explore Kanaka Bay on a higher tide. In 1868, Peter Kakua committed a multiple homicide, murdering his wife, her parents and his child. He was captured at Kanaka Bay and brought back by canoe. He did manage to escape overboard into the cold December waters, but was re-captured by being beat with a paddle over the head. I didn`t see any fugitives in the water, today, but I kept a tight grip on my paddle shaft just in case. From the bay you can kayak back to Nanaimo Harbour through the narrow channel between Newcastle and Protection Islands. You need at least a two-foot tide or you`ll be carrying your boat. If you are traveling by car or bicycle the Newcastle Island ferry leaves Maffeo Sutton Park dock, located in downtown Nanaimo, 9am-9pm during the summer. Kayaks can be rented on Newcastle Island (small booth at the foot of the dock) or at the Brechin boat ramp near the Departure Bay ferry terminal from the Nanaimo Adventure Center (Toll Free: 1-866-765-2925). There are a number of descriptive signs in the provincial park about the quarry and island trails. The park also sports a concession stand open most of the day.
Volunteers needed Volunteers are still needed to help prepare for the arrival of the Visitor Reception Centre, expected to arrive mid September. Please contact wharfinger Mark Mercer at 250-245-1146.
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Society looking at a museum The dream of having a museum could be a step closer to being realized if there is enough support from the community, says Maureen Martin, president of the Ladysmith and District Historical Society. Volunteers from the society operate the Ladysmith Archives, but the current facility behind the Tim Horton’s “is fine as an archives and it will remain so. Artifacts have been collected there, but the facility is not suitable for a museum,” says Martin. Enter the Ladysmith & District Credit Union. The locally owned credit union has offered the society temporary use of the former Ladysmith Resources Centre building on First Avenue that it owns. The Resources Centre is in its new location on High Street in the Community Services Building. But before a museum can happen, there are many questions and concerns that have to be met, says Martin. “There is the cost of making the building suitable for a museum, the setting up exhibits, and the running expenses.” The society needs to know if there is support from the community for this. “We need to do something to preserve Ladysmith’s colourful past”, says Martin Ladysmith is one of a very few towns that does not have a museum. Any changes would be subject to the society’s board approval.
Nanaimo River meeting The Nanaimo & Area Land Trust (NALT) and the Mid-Island Sustainability and Stewardship Initiative (MISSI) are holding a community information meeting about the Nanaimo River August 2, at the Cedar Heritage Centre. NALT’s has launched a new campaign to develop long-term strategies for stewardship and protection of the Nanaimo River. A Nanaimo River Symposium will be held in September. The Nanaimo River has many impor-
Maureen Martin, president of the Ladysmith & District Historical Society in front of the former Ladysmith Resources building. The group is looking at the building as a possible site for a museum. Photo: Rob Johnson
tant values including riparian and terrestrial habitats that support many animal and bird species, drinking water for the City of Nanaimo, and groundwater that feeds the aquifers of Cedar, Yellowpoint and South Wellington as well as timber yields for two major forest companies. Almost all of the Nanaimo River and its watershed is privately owned, and an integrated strategy for stewarding and protecting the values of this river has never been carried out before now. For more information, call NALT at 250-714-1990, email admin@nalt.bc.ca, or visit www.nalt.bc.ca
Ladysmith Town Meeting vote results Over 90 people attended Ladysmith’s Town Hall Meeting eager to make their opinions known on a number of issues with electronic voting. There was strong support for expanding and upgrading the wastewater treatment plant, and a resounding yes to a new waterfront RV campsite. Opinion was split on the controversial issue of licensing cats and permitting backyard chickens. Here’s how the voting went: Town of Ladysmith should expand and upgrade the existing wastewater treatment plant from primary to secondary treatment? Strongly agree-40, Agree-22,
Disagree-1, Strongly Disagree-2, Need more info-13. If further action is needed to protect Ladysmith Harbour I would support: The outfall to be extended out of the harbour-7, the treatment plant be upgraded to provide additional advanced treatment-58, I need more info-14. Should the Town of Ladysmith facilitate the construction of an RV Campsite on the waterfront? Yes-57, No-9, I need more info-9. Should the Town of Ladysmith amend the Animal Control Bylaw to permit backyard chickens similar to other communities? Yes-32, No-27, I need more info-2. Should the Town of Ladysmith amend the Animal Control Bylaw to require the licensing and control of cats? Yes-25, No-23, I need more info 3.
St. Joseph’s School Open House St. Joseph’s School invites you to come out Sept.1 from 10am-1pm and tour the school. Bring your questions about the difference a Catholic education can make for your child. Hotdogs will be served at noon. St Joseph’s is located at 9735 Elm St., Chemainus. For more information call 250-246-3191 or email sjc@cisdv.bc.ca
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Lyndsay and Vaughn Wells. Photo: Marina Sacht
Cassidy contestant wins the cook-off
After an intense day-long cook-off full of excitement, healthy competition and emotional ups and downs, the judging panel has spoken - and Lyndsay Wells from Ladysmith, British Columbia is one of four lucky women who are now the Real Women of Philadelphia. The winners were announced at a gala dinner in Toronto, where their dishes were served to upwards of 180 food enthusiasts. The four women were chosen from 16 finalists who sliced, diced and whisked their hearts out for the chance to star in their own online cooking videos, contribute recipes to an online cookbook and take home $20,000 cash. “I really appreciated this,” Lyndsay says from her kitchen in Cassidy, handing her husband Vaughn a cookie fresh from the oven. “It was such a tremendous event. It gives validity to the home cooks quietly working in kitchens across Canada. It gives them the respect that they deserve.” Lyndsay, a published writer and former RCMP officer, won for her Creamy Pistachio and Mango Chutney Pork Tenderloin in the Entrée category, and along with the three other winners she’ll now take the reins of the Real Women of Philadelphia online community from Anna Olson. To view a list of each of the finalists and their recipes, visit www.realwomenofphiladelphia.ca
The Great Zucchini Grand Prix Ladies and gentlemen, please start your ... vegetables? The Great Zucchini Grand Prix is set for Sept. 4 from 10-2pm at the Cedar Farmers Market. “At this time of year there is always a lot of extra zucchinis and this is a great way to use them for the day,” according to
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when it determined the line was no longer safe and funding was not available to make repairs. The E&N rail line has been in operation on Vancouver Island for 125 years and runs 225 km, between Victoria and Courtenay.
Chemainus music
Denise Malsbury who along with Darlene Plaxton is helping Betty Benson in organizing the annual event. The inspiration for the Grand Prix came from Betty’s husband’s love of cars. Participants will create and decorate race cars using a zucchini, carrots and supplied wooden wheels and axles. The cars will then compete in threes and race down a wooden ramp. The races will begin at the opening of the market. All racers are given a prize. Entry is free and open to all ages. And best of all, after you have raced, you can take home your car and add it to your favourite stir-fry.
E&N passenger rail gets $7.5 million The Province is responding to ongoing community support of the E&N Railway by investing $7.5 million to help restore passenger train service on Vancouver Island. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will contribute up to $500,000 for an engineering inspection on the condition of the approximately 40 rail bridges and trestles on the line. The balance of $7 million will help the Island Corridor Foundation repair the track and ensure that it is safe for passengers. The ICF has identified that it needs $15 million to complete essential repairs. The provincial funding of $7 million is conditional upon the final bridge inspection and ICF matching the other $7.5 million that it needs to ensure all repairs are completed and passenger train service can safely resume. The ICF will also prepare a long-term plan that describes how passenger service can reach its potential. The plan will include ways to attract more ridership, which is an important factor to the economic success of the railway. The rail operator, Southern Railway on Vancouver Island (SRVI), suspended passenger train service earlier this spring
If all you need is music, sweet music, then dance your way down to Waterwheel Park in Chemainus. There’s a concert every Tuesday evening at 7pm, and all afternoon on Aug. 6. On Aug. 2, Kendall Patrick & Elf Song will entertain with original, Celtic & Folk tunes. Squeezeboxes take over the park during Accordion Day on Aug. 6 from noon to 4. On Aug. 9, Lennon & Juggernaut will wow you with hip hop, funk, reggae. Celebrate with Luv Train as they launch their new CD on Aug. 16. Murray Atkinson, rock guitarist with the Odds (recently the Canucks house band), will rock your world on Aug. 23. The Tower Of Dudes brings their eclectic sound to town. Enjoy cow punk, folk, flamenco & roots music on Aug. 30. For details, go to the Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society website at www.cvcas.com. Or, join their email list at MusicInTheParkSeries@gmail.com
TimberWest Open house Couverdon Real Estate, a division of TimberWest held a open house on July 26 at Ladysmith Eagles Hall about the potential for including Couverdon lands, located northwest of the Town of Ladysmith into the municipal boundaries. For information call Frank Limshue, 250-729-3726 frank.limshue@couverdon.
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BY NICK LONGO I’m jazzed up to be part of the TAKE 5 team as a music correspondent. Should you have any music happenings that you’d like to share with the community I’d like to hear about them and share them on at www.take5.ca/vancouver-island-music/. My first musical quest was to attend the Vancouver Island Music Business Conference (VIMBC) in Courtenay. I was wondering why I hadn’t heard of this event that happens in my own backyard. Would I find anyone from our readership area that was involved with this event? Would there be any singer/ songwriters from our readership in attendance? VIMBC is where aspiring and professional singer/songwriters could network and get tips from industry professionals on how to better craft and produce their own music, distribute and promote it. There was a diverse group of regional, national and international music industry panelists that presented information in various workshops throughout the event covering topics such as songwriting, music publishing, production, marketing and promotion, legal issues affecting musicians, and funding resources. I didn’t realize that an event of this caliber happened in my own backyard. Here are some of the luminaries that were in attendance (you may want to google them or just google VIMBC and check out their creds.) Dan Hill, Jake Gold, Patricia Conroy, Terry McBride, Bill Henderson, Steve Wilkinson, Ralph Murphy, Ron Proulx, Jamie Warren, Keith Porteous, Steven McClintock, John Mang, Darcy D, Michael Behm, Bob D’eith, Terry O’Brien, and Susie McGregor. One of the folks in attendance was Bill Henderson. Bill was a panelist and performer at VIMBC. He’s been with the band Chilliwack since its inception and is a Canadian music icon. Bill grew up in Yellowpoint for a spell in his youth. He took sax lessons in La-
Shauna Sedola and Terry McBride. Photo: Nick Longo
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Bill Henderson and Susy McGregor. Photo Nick Longo
dysmith from the Carter’s (a musical dynasty in Ladysmith in the late 50’s). Much inspiration for Bill’s musical career stemmed from the radio and listening to Red Robinson. Some of the inspiration for Bill’s music came to him from the time he would spend out at the wharf at the Tillicum Cottages in Yellowpoint when in “August and September when that thing happens on the Salish Sea, flat calm silver blue, seagulls going, in an incredible atmosphere and beauty that absolutely stoned me. I just wanted to take that and put it in my music. “Baby Blue” came close to that.” Someone that I’d met, that wasn’t a panelist but is an aspiring singer/songwriter, Shauna Sedola. Shauna lives in South Nanaimo. She wrote her first song when she was 14. She heard about VIMBC through the Canadian Songwriters Association and by being a member of Music B.C. When asked what was the best part of the conference Shauna replied “ The seminars, the quality of the panelists and the topics for discussion. Not only are the seminars relevant and exciting, it’s the fact that the panelists are really approachable. That’s the good thing about this conference, it has a homey feel and the professionals are willing to take the time to talk to you.” I asked her who influenced her the most, at the conference and she replied that Terry McBride’s keynote speech really impressed her. He talked about the way the music industry is having massive changes that are going on and that she as the new generation of talent have the power to influence the industry and create the change. Special kudos go out to Susy McGregor and Andy Lorimer for bootstrapping VIMBC from the get go. The passion and determination that these two individuals put out, needs to be recognized and supported from our community as well. Please let everyone musical that you know, know about the terrific learning and networking opportunity at VIMBC. Read more at www.take5.ca/vancouver-island-music/
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Yard Sale Blues We have decided to become minimalists. Now, the definition of minimalism will differ depending on how committed a person is to the concept. There are some that say you must have only 50 possessions. I have that many things on my bed side table. Maybe our definition should be that we can see the basement floor. A yard sale was the next obvious step. The day of the sale can be fun but the preparation is daunting. I found things in the garage that I had not laid eyes on for 25 years. Then there is the mental task of letting go of this stuff. I thought these things to be cool or potentially useful when I stashed them all those years ago. Every room in the house was subjected to this cleansing. Weeks later we were ready to rock. We had tents, tables, signs, advertisements, friends helping and things priced low. Friday night, the long haired one and I were tying a rope along the fir hedge to serve as a hanger for clothes and objects d’ arte. As I reached into the hedge for a strong branch to tie off one end, a pair of white crowned sparrows (you wondered when birds were going to appear) sat inches from my hands chipping furiously in the same tone of voice that they use on the cat. As we tied the rope along the hedge, they followed us, warning of the consequences of disturbing the nest that was obviously very close. These small birds with a white crown bordered by black stripes are very prolific. Almost everybody will have a family of these in their back yard. They have a lovely song that can White Crown Sparrow. Photo: Bruce Whittington
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vary depending on where they live. In Ladysmith and area they have a seven note song that is repeated over and over. If they nest near your bedroom you will hear it all night long. I have heard a similar but shorter version in the Chilcotin. This year we have one that only sings half the usual refrain. Not well brought up. Lazy. Saturday was a gong show. We were warned about early birds (the first one came at 11am the day before) so we started setting up at 6:30. The white crowns were freaking out but I paid very little attention to them except to tell them to deal with it. By 7:30 business was good. Now, we wanted this stuff gone, so if anyone expressed any interest in anything, they were almost bullied into making a deal and at times, given the item, I had a 50 cent , $1 and $2 box that were pretty picked over by noon so I moved it all to the free section. Now stuff started to disappear. I sat back and watched a guy that arrived on a motorcycle, sheepishly stuff his saddle bags with strings of Christmas lights and arm loads from the free pile. The sparrows were accustomed to us by
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now and we could hear the racket of a healthy bunch of babies being fed inches from our heads. We held on until about 3 o’clock and were very pleased with the result. A mountain of stuff was gone. There were only six boxes for the Hospital Auxiliary. My only sadness was the chain saw. I had spiffied it up, given it fresh gas and cleaned the plug. The day before it started like drug enhanced Tour de France rider. It always started for me even after being ignored for years. A fellow whispered to his wife that he was going to make me an offer. “Does it work?” he asked. I flooded it and pulled on that cord until sweat stood out on my brow. The potential buyer backed slowly towards his car as others laughed and offered me 5 bucks for it. It started the next day. I guess it doesn’t want to leave me. (Psst! It’s still for sale.) Our overweight, rat-breathed cat dragged itself from one of its many snoozing spots and came to see what was happening. She flirted shamelessly with men pawing through boxes until she heard the baby sparrows feeding. I grabbed her as she bolted past and carried
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her to the house. Thankfully she seemed content to forget them. Who knows what goes on in that alien brain. The sparrows ignored us as we cleaned up. Two days later they had flown the coop. Our sale was a success but I have come to believe that the minimalism concept is unworkable for most people in our society. We are consumers and collectors. When some have too much stuff, they rent a storage unit. I can now see the basement floor but open my bedside table drawer and ... oops, never mind.
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Awesome August!! BY CINDY DAMPHOUSSE We live in one of the most beautiful places on the planet and our August is bursting with great events! Pack up the picnic basket, load up the car, grab granny and get out and enjoy! We have made it very easy for you to fill your Awesome August calendar. Everything you need to know is right here in the next few pages. Harbour Tours, Theatre, Music, and Farmers Markets these are all on going from July and if you missed them you still have time to take in these wonderful activities. Let the FUN begin in Awesome August.
Coronation Mall Customer Appreciation Day - August 12
Coronation Mall Merchants want to thank you for being loyal customers by throwing a party. Here is what’s in store for you at the Mall… 11am - 2pm Clever Trevor, roaming family entertainment 11am - 1pm The Jazz Band will be at McDonalds 12pm - The Kerplunks at the upper lever 1pm - Saidi Sisters of d’Nile upper level 11am-3pm Bouncy Castle, Sidewalk Sales, Face Painting, RCMP Cruiser Tours, and hot dog sales with proceeds going to Tour de Rock Cops for Cancer Bring a lawn chair to sit and enjoy the entertainment!
Ladysmith Days – August 13-14 This is a new date for the popular family friendly weekend. Activities are scheduled all around town, come early and stay all day! Saturday August 13 Downtown 7am - Pancake Breakfast Ladysmith Credit Union parking lot
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8am - 3pm – 1st Ave “Street Market” from Roberts St to Gatacre St 10am - Citizen of the Year Award Presentation, Ladysmith Credit Union Parking Lot 10am - Parade begins along 1st Ave. 2 – 5pm – Ladysmith has Talent Contest, Ladysmith Credit Union parking lot 49th Parallel Grocery Family Fun Day at Aggie Field. Celebrate the 34th Anniversary of the 49th Parallel in Ladysmith. Family Fun from a family business! 11am – 2pm - Hot dogs and Drinks – Proceeds going to a local team, Face painting, Giant slide, Dragon bouncer, Sports Arena, Hamster Ball 11:30am - Island Farms - Daisy the Cow show 12pm - Island Farms – Ice Cream eating contest 12 - 2pm - Music by Evan Miller & Rod Alsop Transfer Beach 4 - 6pm – Children’s Games. Old Fashioned Family Games Sunday August 14 Downtown 8 – 11am - Pancake breakfast, Eagles Hall 4 - 8pm - Steak BBQ, Eagles Hall Transfer Beach 8am - Food and craft vendors open
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10am - 12pm Free Kids’ Kayaking 10am - 4pm – Kids Zone lots of fun games, and activities 10:15 - 11:15am - Evan Miller 11am - Helicopter Rides $60 each 11:30am-12:30pm - Scott Rainone 1 - 3pm - Sand volleyball tournament 12:45 - 1:45pm - Kendall Patrick 2 – 3pm – Skellig 3:15 - 4:15pm - Luv Train 6 - 7:45pm - Gary Fjellgaard, Saskia and Darrell 8pm - 9:30pm - Ryan McMahon & The Company Damn 10pm - Fireworks Extravaganza Looking for more info? Visit www.ladysmithdays.com
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Michael Dean is one of the many artists you’ll find at this year’s Arts on the Avenue. Photo: Cindy Damphousse
Ladysmith Show & Shine - August 19 – 20
Arts on the Avenue – August 28, 10am – 4pm.
Get Your Motors Running! Awesome August roars into town with the Ladysmith Show & Shine. This year’s 2 day event includes the 2nd annual Rod Run and the very popular Show & Shine car show handing out four People’s Choice awards.
This 13th annual street art festival will treat all your senses. Beautiful art in a wide array of styles, live music, buskers, artisan food vendors and even a kids art area for the budding artist in your family. With so much going on you will need the entire day to stroll the tents and pick out that perfect piece to make your space gallery ready. Want more art info visit www.artontheavenue.com
Friday August 19 6pm - Rod Run, 49th Parallel’s upper parking lot Saturday August 20 10am - 3pm – Ladysmith Show & Shine, 1st Ave. in Ladysmith Need more motoring info on this event? Visit www.ladysmithsns.com
With life being so busy, Awesome August gives you plenty of opportunity to get out with family and friends and discover all the wonderful things that our area has to offer.
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RDN - Area A BY JOE BURNETT Update Area ‘A’ Official Community Plan “A Shared Community Vision” I am pleased to advise Area ‘A’s new Official Community Plan Bylaw 1620,2011 has received Statutory Approval from the Provincial Government and as a result the RDN Board adopted the Bylaw at the July 26 board meeting. Nearly three years of public consultation and preparation has shaped the new OCP, a comprehensive plan that provides more certainty to the community; provides higher level of protection for our electoral areas most sensitive eco-system and features; seeks to protect our rural character by supporting limits on rural growth; and recognizes the desire of local residents to support agriculture and local food production. In response to significant community interests it emphasizes the importance of ground water protection and includes a number of Development Permit Area Guide Lines.
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Members of the volunteer Citizens Advisory Group and residents who participated in developing the plan can take considerable pride in the approved document. The committee members devoted a tremendous amount of time to the OCP review and I thank all the members who stayed the course to see this exceptional document completed; Chris Pagan, Jill Maibach, Henrik Kreiberg, Geoff Macauley, Devon Wyatt, Jack Anderson, Bert Vermaskari, Joanne McLeod, Ray Digby, Brian Collen, Donna Sweeney, Anne Fiddick, Gary Laird, Mike Hooper. Your efforts are very much appreciated along with the RDN staff who did a commendable job to guide the process, assemble information and managed the overall development of the community plan. Cedar Main Street Design Project During the OCP review the community expressed a desire to create a Village Plan that supports community diversity, creates and preserves community identity, a sense of place and provides opportunities for local employment. In response the OCP includes a new land use designation titled Cedar Main Street which applies to lands located on both sides of Cedar Road between MacMillan and Hemer Roads. Uses supported by the OCP within the Cedar Main Street land use designation include a range of housing types and sizes, commercial/professional office, personal service, recreation and mixed use which is of high quality design, is pedestrian oriented and includes public space. The proposed project which is focused on a community design Charrette is to provide a greater level of detail for Cedar Main Street land use designation to replace the existing generic interim policies. A community design Charrette is an intense multi-day collaborative and creative design process where residents, business owners, interest groups and various subject matter experts work together with design professionals to create a visual presentation of a study area resulting in a feasible plan which visually represents the community’s preference and is supported by charrett participants. The proposed project provides flexibility to allow the community to define the level of detail desired and will include ample opportunities for public participation which far exceed the minimum requirements of the Local Government Act including the formation of two advisory groups. 1. A Technical Advisory Group and 2. A Citizen’s Advisory Group. The project is scheduled to be initiated this summer with a community outreach process to begin as soon as the Terms of Reference is approved by the RDN Board. Cedar Skate/bike Park Towns For Tomorrow Grant Program application. The RDN has received a letter from the Assistant Deputy Minister advising that Area ‘A’ skate/bike park grant applica-
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tion was not selected. This is extremely disappointing and unexpected. However, the letter invited the RDN to contact the Ministry if this project continues to be a priority for our community. I am pleased the RDN Board supported my motion to send a letter to Minister Ida Chong advising her of the RDN’s disappointment as we had understood grant funding of up to $400,000 was available to each Regional District and therefore we were very surprised to learn the project was not approved. Our letter further advised the RDN Board prioritised some significant projects but selected the Cedar skate/bike park as the RDN’s single highest priority project for funding as we felt very strongly the youth of our region were our highest priority. The RDN reaffirms their commitment to this project and hopes the Minister will give favourable consideration to our grant request at the next phase of funding. I feel it is very unfortunate the project has under gone a further delay and I fully understand the Cedar Skate Park Association are shocked and wonder what their next steps are, however, based on the letter reaffirming the Regional District’s commitment we should be in a good position to receive a grant when the next phase of Towns for Tomorrow is announced. Stay safe and enjoy the summer. Joe Burnett, phone: 250-722-2656; email: quaillanding@ shaw.ca
CVRD - Area H BY MARY MARCOTTE Neighbourhood Meetings During the months of June/July, a series of neighbourhood meetings were held for residents who are serviced by the North Oyster Fire Department. The purpose of the meetings was to provide information in a convenient location and to obtain feedback on the proposed fire hall construction project. At the conclusion of each meeting a formal non binding opinion poll was conducted through a confidential ballot process. The ballot boxes were sealed until all of the neighbourhood meetings had been concluded. This process allowed many people who have not attended public meetings, to walk or bicycle to locations in their own neighbourhood. In total, over 100 residents took part in the meetings. The input provided to me was very valuable. I would like to thank all of everyone who attended the meetings and participated in the voting process. I would also like to thank Doug and Peggy Kolosoff for hosting one of the meetings at Kiwi Cove Lodge, and Hank and Anne Vanderlaan for hosting a meeting at Yellow Point Bed and Breakfast. Thanks also to Mike and Julia Fall who hosted a meeting as well. The opinion poll questions asked were: “Do you support construction of a single new fire hall on the existing site on Yellow Point Road only?” or “Do you support the construction of two new fire halls; one on the existing site on Yellow Point Road and a second new hall on Fearn Road in the Coffin Point Area?”. Participants were asked to indicate yes or no to either option. If they did not support the construction of a new hall at all, they were to indicate that by answering “no” to both options. Second Question: “If the proposed new fire hall project were to receive public approval, which method of taxation do you prefer As-
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sessment Based Taxation or Parcel Based Taxation?” Although more than 100 people participated in the process, not all of them voted and some people did not vote on both questions. Therefore, the final results do not tally exactly. In answer to the First Question, the results show that nine people voted against construction of any new hall, 21 voted in favour of a single fire hall and 64 voted in favour of two fire halls. In answer to the Second Question, the results show that 42 people voted in favour of assessment based taxation and 50 people voted in favour of parcel based taxation. Based on those results, I recommended to the CVRD Board that staff draft the necessary bylaws to proceed to referendum in the fall. At the July 13 Board meeting staff were authorized to draft bylaws to borrow up to $3.03 million for construction of two halls, based on the parcel tax method. This is not the end of the public process; it is just the beginning of another phase. Once the Bylaws have been drafted and approved by the Board, Provincial approval is required. We anticipate that we will hear back from the Province by mid September, which would enable us to proceed to referendum in November. During this phase of the proposed building project, there will be an additional public meeting or meetings to provide any new information that may be developed and to keep you informed on the process. CVRD Area G Directors Notes were not available by presstime. Check out our September issue.
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“I would have had better luck convincing her to hold the ceremony at the city dump.”
ARBOR ENVY Citizenship in this fine country is not without responsibility. If, for example, you see something that might put fellow citizens in a state of peril, you must act and warn the populace. Standing idly by when inaction can cause bodily harm to others just isn’t good enough. That’s why I’m issuing a public safety notice and posting it in the post office, assuming of course they’re not on strike again, and on certain telephone poles not already cluttered with heavy metal posters. I’m talking about garden arbors, structures even less stable than Aunt Sally after she’s guzzled a quart of gin. Do Not Under Any Circumstance Stand Close to one of these objects unless you look good festooned with latticework. And standing next to Aunt Sally? Just make sure you’re upwind. The problem with arbors is they’re only two sided, not four. This leaves them with the structural integrity of a jellyfish and the stability of a two-legged dog. When I look at one, I go, “Quick, get me some cross bracing.” A woman looks at the same structure and goes, “Ah, isn’t that sweet. Wouldn’t little Suzi look good getting married under that?” Doesn’t matter that at 240 pounds and five foot three, Little Suzi ain’t gonna fit. Arbors, just like a two-legged dog, can be made stable if you bury the posts. Problem there is, anything buried rots. Which means you’ve just postponed the inevitable, which will only give people a false sense of security, thus causing them to loiter under the arbor thereby catering disaster. If only men populated the earth, this would not be a big problem, because there would be no arbors. Why build something that is just going to fall down? All existing arbors would be braced up, front and back, walled in and converted to something both stable, and practical, say like a doghouse, where, a man could overnight should he be stupid enough to
say to his wife, “You want a stupid arbor?” But for some reason, unbeknown to the Faculty of Engineering, woman love arbors. In fact, a woman’s status in the female community is measured by how many arbors she has, in contradistinction to the male community where status is measured by the size of a man’s pickup, or the number of ball caps in his collection. Arbors hold such fascination for women that they want to get married under them. Googling wedding arbors produces dozens of hits. There you can find women offering testimonials to arbor manufacturers. “Man! I wish I had seen your arbor before my wedding,” gushes Jennifer, age 26. “Next time around, I’ll tie the knot under one of your products. In fact, if this new guy doesn’t figure out soon when garbage day is, he’s out of here and I’ll be in the market for a new arbor, so don’t forget to send me your brochure.” My first daughter’s only request at the time of her wedding was that I build an arbor for her, that’s right, one she could get married under. There was no talking her out of it. I would have had better luck convincing her to hold the ceremony at the city dump. That arbor is currently resting in our yard under a press of roses, leaning ominously to the port side. It creaks alarmingly every time I pass under it To prevent her younger sister from requesting an arbor, I have been reading her engineering reports about arbor failure from a very early age. Heart breaking tales of entire wedding parties being taken out by falling arbors. Progress has been made utilizing this tactic, but you never know. Arbor lust is like the aids virus, it can go dormant for extended periods of time, only to resurface at a moment’s notice. One minute your daughter’s fine, the next, in a none too gentle voice, she’s bellowing, “WHERE’S MY ARBOR?” And now on to the villain of the story, my wife’s gardening buddy Tina, of Honeysuckle Gift Cottage. Tina has an incredible garden and is current leader in
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the “arbor race” with a stable of eight. The inevitable of course happened, my wife went to visit and came back with a bad case of “arbor envy.” “How come Tina has all those arbors and I only have three? You can’t love me!” Realizing there’s no defense against the “you don’t love me” card, I reluctantly headed to my shop for tools, there being no alternative but to “arbor up.” After discussion with the cronies, one who has a doctorate in engineering, a three-rafter structure with a triangulating cross bar was decided upon. A feeling of foreboding accompanied the design process; those who designed the Titanic experienced a similar feeling. With the two sides held in place with cross braces, a man’s best friend, we placed the rafters and strung some two by threes on top. Next we unscrewed the braces and stood back, more than a little proud because everything was plumb and square, an unusual occurrence when I’m at the hammer. That’s when the gust of wind hit causing it to lurch sudden to the side, not unlike Aunt Sally. We barely saved it. “Gussets to the rescue men!” Saws buzzed, hammers barked, and soon the structure was made wind proof. But you can’t be too sure. That’s when we brought in the very finest stability test device, also known as Stinkers, our cat that likes nothing better than climbing. He was halfway up the arbor when he started to scream. “Get me off this thing! It’s unstable.” After we calmed him down, scratched our heads, adjusted our ball caps, we returned to gusseting, this time in earnest. Finally stability was achieved, we settled back in our lawn chairs, broke out the refreshment, in this case a bottle of Prospect Winery Riesling, an exceptional summer sipper from B.C. at only $12.95. . We were just sitting there enjoying ourselves, not really paying attention, when Aunt Sally sashayed into the garden and staggered over to the arbor. “Sally! No! Don’t lean on that! Oh no. Salllllllllly! Delbert Horrocks is co-proprietor at the Mahle House Restaurant in Cedar. For more reading try Delbert’s blog, Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com
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Ladysmith hotel back in previous owner’s hands BY ROB JOHNSON The Ladysmith Inn has seen many changes with various owners over the past 111 years of its existence. The hotel was built in Wellington in 1900. With the closure of the Wellington Mines and the founding of Ladysmith it was decided to move the hotel intact from Nanaimo to its present location. Because of the slope of the lot on First Avenue a new ground floor was added to allow the main body of the hotel to stay intact. Today the hotel is better known as the Ladysmith Inn, while most old timers still think of it as the New Western. The hotel and its restaurants were the centre of Ladysmith’s social life as it was the place to be after the various bars and the bowling ally closed for the night. Dave Prakash, who owned the hotel up until 2008, and created the roof top patio along with the larger and better
The Ladysmith Inn home of The Sportsman Pub when it was moved to Ladysmith. The hotel was then known as the New Western. The historic hotel is under new ownership. Photo courtesy Ladysmith Archives
stocked liquor store has just bought it back and is presently making plans to reestablish the quality of service that was present when he last owned it. Plans include good entertainment, and new food service operated by the Odika Restaurant in Chemainus. Dave who also owns the Green Lantern Hotel in Chemainus is looking forward to being back at the helm of Ladysmith’s favorite pub/hotel.
News and Updates Candice McLean (Ostle), born and raised in Ladysmith, is excited to be back and opening her own licensed group childcare center. For the last eight years Candice has been residing in the Greater Vancouver area and has been involved in several roles in the childcare field, including assisting a large non-profit organization in the opening of a new childcare facility in downtown Vancouver.
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“Invest in yourself. Shop Locally.” With 10 years of experience behind her she is ready to open her own facility. Cheeky Monkeys Childcare is a group childcare center for children ages 0-5 years, with an anticipated opening date of September. Her newly renovated location is at 730 Third Ave, Ladysmith (old school board office, next to the Intermediate School). “Our vision is to provide comfort for parents with the knowledge that their child will be cared and nurtured for in a safe, age appropriate and inclusive environment”. For more information please contact Cheeky Monkeys Childcare 250924-7227 or visit www.cheekymonkeyschildcare.org Even though Trish McConnell has closed the store on First Avenue in Ladysmith, all the amazing natural and organic bath, spa and skin care products made by Vancouver Island Bath Salt Company are available online. www.vancouverislandbathsalts.com Allan and Adele Peterson of Heritage Wineworks have sold the business. As of August 1, Heritage Wineworks will merge into Art of Brewing Ltd and will continue business as Art of Brewing Ltd at #9 - 1156 Rocky Creek Road Ladysmith in the new Heritage Business Park. Between August 31 and September 10 the South Wellington shop will close and all clients will be served at the Ladysmith location. Art Lindala is looking forward to his new premises and is already planning an expansion into a larger unit in January. Adele and Al thank the community. “It has been great dealing with all of you over the years.” They and Art invite everyone to see the newly advanced facility. Art of Brewing is an award winning personal craft brewer and vintner. Mr. Popper’s in Ladysmith has re-opened. David Clausen and Tracey DeFrane welcome new owners Bob and Friede Mashford. They took over the cooking kettle in mid July and will continue the delicious tradition of kettle corn, fudge, waffle cones, slushies and all the tasty items that test your will power. Coming soon Dutch liquorice and British candy.
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Lyle Jordan proposes connector service. Photo: Rob Johnson
Lyle Jordan of Ladysmith based Emergency First Aid Services is proposing a Ladysmith connector. The van would offer transportation to and from Ladysmith, Nanaimo and Duncan. EFS is looking for feedback from the community to help determine if this is an economically feasible service. For more info call 250-893-3418 or lc@efs.ca Martin Tang of Appetit, has been busy. In the mornings and lunch you’ll find him whipping up breakfasts and delicious stir-fries, and now you’ll also find him downtown Nanaimo at the newly opened Front Street Grill where he is the executive chef. The upscale eatery will host live music. We are looking forward to trying it out in the near future. Coco Café opened in Cedar Village Square to good reviews from locals. Coco is operated by Cedar Opportunities Coop that was created by a group of parents who have children with developmental disabilities in order to provide these young people with access to employment, friendship and being part of the community. They are making music at the 49th Café located next door to the grocery store in Ladysmith. Colin Pickell manager has lined up Aug. 12- Ellisa, Aug. 26. Skagway. Performances from 7-8:30 pm at The 49th Cafe. Ladysmith’s K & S Diner closed its doors in July. Got business news? New to the area? editor@take5.ca
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Gloria Yates, Baraca Centre 250-714-0034 Aug 12, 7-8:30pm, Ellisa Hartman, The 49th Café, 250-245-3221 Aug 13, 9am-1pm, Crofton Market, beside BC Ferry Terminal, 250 246-9871 Aug 13, Bill Johnson Blues Band and The Twisters, The Saltair Pub www.dancingbean.ca
August Aug 2, 7pm, SANDY JASPER, STEVE TOZER, & KENDALL PATRICK, Chemainus Waterwheel Park www.cvcas.com
Aug 13-14, 10am-4pm, Denman Island Art Studio Tour www.artsdenman.com Aug 13, 7am, Ladysmith Days, various locations in Ladysmith www.ladysmithdays.com
Aug 2, 6:30pm, Cedar Heritage Centre, community information meeting re Nanaimo River 250-714-1990
Aug 13, 8am-2pm, Ladysmith Days First Avenue “STREET MARKET”, 250-245-2112
Aug 2, 7pm, The Nanaimo Glad and Dahlia Society meeting, Paine Horticulture Center on E. Wellington Rd., 250-245-4231
Aug 13, 11:30am – 2pm, 49th Parallel Family Fun Days, Aggie Field 250-245-3221
Aug 3,10,17,24,31, Wonderful Wednesdays in Chemainus Aug 3,10,17,24,31, Seniors Bingo, St. Mary’s Church Hall 25-245-3079 Aug 3-29, Current Threads II, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery 250-245-1252 Aug 5-7, Art Mart, Nanaimo Art Gallery 250-754-1750 Aug 6, 6th Birthday Sale at Salamander Books Aug 6, 12-4pm. ACCORDION DAY, Chemainus Waterwheel Park, by donation, www.cvcas.com Aug 6, 9am-1pm, Crofton Market, beside BC Ferry Terminal, 250 246-9871 Aug 6, 5:30 - 7:30pm, Current Threads II opening reception, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery 250-245-1252 Aug 7, 6pm, Mary Murphy with guitarist Paul Keim, the Amphitheatre, Transfer Beach Aug 7, 7pm, The All-American Boys Chorus :”IN THE SUMMERTIME” The Port Theatre, 250-754-8550 Aug 8-12, 9am, Summer Day Camp, Park Ave Community School Nanaimo, 250-591-5707 Aug 8,15,22,29, 4:45pm, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop in Centre Aug 9, 7pm, LENNON & JUGGERNAUT, Chemainus Waterwheel Park, by donation, www.cvcas.com Aug 12, 9am, Coronation Mall Customer Appreciation Day Aug 12, 7pm, Free Psychic Meditation Class-Kalavati
Aug 13, 10:30am, Hospice Golf Tournament, Cowichan Golf & Country Club, 1-888-701-4242 Aug 13, 2-5pm, Ladysmith has Talent Contest, Ladysmith Credit Union Parking Lot Aug 13, 7pm, Dance – Happy Hans, Chemainus Seniors Drop in Centre Aug 14, 8am, Ladysmith Days, various locations in Ladysmith www.ladysmithdays.com Aug 14, 6pm, Gary Fjellgaard, Darrel & Saskia, the Amphitheatre, Transfer Beach Aug 16, 7pm, Luv Train, Chemainus Waterwheel Park, by donation, www.cvcas.com Aug 19, 6pm, Rod’s Run, 49th Parallel’s upper parking lot 250-619-2387 Aug 20, 9am -1pm, Crofton Market, beside BC Ferry Terminal, 250 246-9871
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Aug 23, 7pm, Live Music, Chemainus Waterwheel Park, by donation, www.cvcas.com Aug 26-28, the 6th Annual: SUMMERTIME BLUES, Maffeo-Sutton Park Nanaimo, 250-754-8550 Aug 26, 7-8:30pm, Skagway, The 49th Café, 250-2453221 Aug 27 9am-1pm, Crofton Market, beside BC Ferry Terminal, 250 246-9871 Aug 27, 7pm, Dance – Happy Hans, Chemainus Seniors Drop in Centre Aug 27, 7pm, Steelwheels Rolling Stones Tribute, Fab Fourever- Beatles Magical Musical Tour The Saltair Pub, www.dancingbean.ca Aug 27, 9pm, Kush – Angle Down, The Sportsman Pub, 640 1st Ave., 250-245-8033 Aug 28, 10am-4pm, Arts on the Avenue, 1st Avenue Ladysmith Aug 28, 6pm, Gerry Barnum with Guy Massey, the Amphitheatre, Transfer Beach Aug 30, 7pm, TOWER OF DUDES, Chemainus Waterwheel Park, by donation, www.cvcas.com Aug 31, 7-9pm, Cedar Talent/Community Night - NOAH Building 13467 Cedar Rd., 250-245-8407
September Sep 1, 10am-1pm, School Tour, St. Joseph’s School 9735 Elm St Chemainus 250-246-3191 Sep 3 Crofton Market 9am-1pm beside BC Ferry Terminal 250 246-9871 Sep 4, 10am, The Great Zucchini Grand Prix, Crow & Gate Pub
Aug 20,10am – 3pm, Ladysmith Show & Shine, 1st Ave in Ladysmith 250-619-2387
Sep 6, 7pm, The Nanaimo Glad and Dahlia Society meeting, Paine Horticulture Center on E. Wellington Rd., 250-245-4231
Aug 20, 10am, The Nanaimo Glad and Dahlia Society annual show, Country Club Mall, 250-755-1412
Sep 7, 6:30pm, THE BACKYARDIGANS, Port Theatre 250-754-8550
Aug 20, 11am – 2pm, Celebrate BC Parks 100th Birthday, Morden Colliery Historic Provincial Park
Sep 9, 7-8:30pm, Doug Thring, The 49th Café, 250245-3221
Aug 20, 5pm, Pot Luck Birthday Party, Chemainus Seniors Drop in Centre
Sept10, 7pm, RED GREEN LIVE: Wit and Wisdom Tour, Port Theatre 250-754-8550
Aug 21, 6pm, Steven Palmer, the Amphitheatre, Transfer Beach
Sep 13, 6:15-8pm, Ladysmith Air Cadets Registration/ Open House, 1110-1st Ave., 250-245-2785
Aug 22-26, 1pm, Jungle Jungle Daycamp, Cedar United Church, 250-245-5778
Sep 15-Oct 2, 6pm, The Hollow by Agatha Christie, Ladysmith Little Theatre 250-924-0658
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CLASSIFIED ADS PAINT & SAVE OPTION: Do it yourself, with a little help from a pro together we can make your job more affordable and accomplish a great look. Making the world a brighter place over 25 years. Call Harvey 250-245-2174. DRIVING LESSONS: Approaching Road Test time? Need an evaluation of your driving skills? Also available: Collision Avoidance Training. Great prices on Road Test Packages. 49th Parallel Driving School 250416-1606 or 250-619-2713. AJ’S PLUMBING & GAS LicensedBonded-Insured-Journeyman Quality work, on time service. Ask about the $75.00 Toilet Rebate program in Ladysmith & Chemainus. Free Estimates, Reasonable Rates. 250-8027123. LIGHTWORKS WINDOW WASHING and gutter cleaning. Careful & considerate. Call David 250-722-3599. BOWEN TECHNIQUE is a gentle soft tissue remedial therapy that resets the body to heal itself. Useful for joint, back and neck pain, frozen shoulder, asthma, chronic fatigue and many other problems. For information and appointments call 250-245-7738. Lilja Hardy FMBAC in practice since 1994. www.bowtech.com GOT GRANITE? Have your Granite and Marble Countertops professionally sealed and buffed. Kitchens starting at $75. We do tile as well! SealTech Specialties Call Stuart at 250734-2681 www.sealtechspecialties.com PROFESSIONAL PET CARE SERVICE: leash em & walk em with Marlena. Insured & bonded. Animal First Aid and CPR. Service for all pets including dog walking, home care visits, overnight with pet in your home
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and much more. As my love is yours! 250246-3394. HOME BUDDIES PET & HOUSE CARE since 1994. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. Professional, kindhearted, experienced & reliable care for all pets. Pet First Aid and CPR Certified. Certified Security Professional through Westguard Security. When loving care & security are essential, Peggy Wildsmith 250-245-0151. HOW IS YOUR DRIVEWAY? Have those concrete and asphalt areas patched. Seal your driveway professionally to prepare for the summer heat! Enhance your homes “Curb Appeal” SealTech Specialties call Stuart 250734-2681. BOBBY S MINIHOE & CLEANUP Landscaping, lot clearing, debris removal, excavating, small deliveries with dump trailer, mulch, lawn soil, garden soil, driveway chip, serving Nanaimo, Cedar, Ladysmith & area call Bobby 250-713-4970. OFFICE SPACES -Downtown Ladysmith, modern, ac, renovated, wired, reasonable rent or lease. 250-245-3395. THE HAPPY GARDENER, weeding, digging, raking, etc. Cheerful and conscientious. Call David 250-722-3599. THINKING OF SELLING YOUR HOME? Perhaps ready for a fresher look in your existing home? The affordable design services provided by Rooms n Blooms can help. Call Shar at 250-245-0548 or email shar@roomsnblooms.ca ISLAND PRUNING - Pruning, tree care, fruit trees, vines, ornamental trees, shrubs and hedges. Chainsaw work and small and large clean-up. Darcy 250-245-1260. FAMILY PORTRAITS, 250-756-8892
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DO YOU HAVE MOLD? Algae? Moss? Seicoat has products that will remove and prevent. Ten year warranties offered on select products. Technology is what we do. ww.seicoat.com Call 250-816-5002. LOOKING for sailboat to crew on, local or offshore. marinasacht@yahoo.ca
SEPTIC SERVICE BY ReQuest Holdings Ltd. A local family owned business. Waste bins-commercial and residential. Emergency callouts welcomed. Mention this ad for a 10% discount. 250-740-7742 mikesoder@ telus.net
SEMI RETIRED MASSAGE THERAPIST working in Cedar By The Sea, $60 an hour session 250-722-2669.
FOR RENT IN LADYSMITH 4-plex 2 BDRM apartment, senior 55+, well maintained 1000 sq.ft. oceanview, drapes-carpeted. W/D-F/S-N/S-N/P’s. $750. To view contact 250-245-4646 or 250-758-5816.
OVERCOAT PAINTING - Professional Reliable - Reasonable. Operating 6 years in Ladysmith. No job too small. Will do minor painting repairs. Special senior rates. Call Heather McIntosh for a free estimate. 250245-5557.
CERTIFIED RCA with 20 years experience. Available for personal, respite and palliative care, housekeeping, transportation and errands. Personalized care that fits your schedule. Trusted, reliable and affordable. Call Sheila 250-668-4294.
SUMMER MOWING & TRIMMING any size yard, 36” commercial walk behind mower available. Vacation lawn care. We trim hedges & remove yard waste. Call 250-6186660 . Dunn Lawn & Garden. Fully Insured.
ISAGENIX DISTRIBUTOR - Get Lean & healthy fast - less than $5/ meal. Our protein shakes are amazing! - No gluten, wheat, barley or trans fat. Suzanne Deveau 250-2458407.
AGILE HOME REPAIR & IMPROVEMENT For all your carpentry and home repair needs From repairing/replacing siding, decks, fences to interior finishing including home ventilation FULLY INSURED call IAN 250-714-8800.
KAREN’S INDUSTRIAL SEWING alterations and repairs, from Grad and Wedding to heavy work clothes and accessories. Can also do Manufacturing and Prototypes. 2nd Ave. Ladysmith. For appt. call Karen 250245-7945.
HANDCRAFTED GEMSONE NECKLACES. Jade, garnet, lapis, aventurine and more! $20 each. See jewelry table at Campers Corner Saturday flea market, 8am-3pm 250-245-3829.
M MCNEIL CONTRACTING. Doing it Right the first time and on Budget!! Excavating / Demolition /Hoe Pack and Breaker. / Lot Levelling Hitachi 135 – Linkbelt 75 – Bobcat – Dump Truck Call or email Mike today for a free quote! 250-714-9125 mmcneil@telus.net
QUALITY RENOVATIONS, big or small. 25 yrs exp/journeyman, affordable. For a free estimate call Lars 250-616-1800.
LYNN’S SENIORS CARE HOME: High Quality Personalized Care. Warm caring environment, Great food & snacks, Family events, Couples & Pets welcomed, Ocean views, Gardens. North of Ladysmith. 250245-3391 www.lynnsseniorcare.com JUNGLE JUNGLE DAYCAMP at Cedar United Church. FREE One week only, Aug. 22 - 26 for ages 5 - 12. Games, crafts, songs, stories, prizes. 1- 4 daily. Open to families of all faiths. 250-245-5778. WANT TO FEEL GOOD. Brighten up your home with a new ____. Fix that broken ____. Haul off that ____ you don’t want in the front yard. Call Dan 250-667-6223. DOGGIE DAY CARE. Retired Senior will give your Dog PERSONAL CARE. Pick up and deliver. Call Dan 250-667-6223. FREE SOFAS, reasonable condition, three to go. 250-245-9165.
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CLEAN YOUR SEPTIC TODAY Mention this ad, save 10%. Other services include: waste bins, flat deck, topsoil and gravel. Locally owned business, 250-740-7742. UP TO 1000 SQUARE FEET WAREHOUSE/RETAIL space for rent inside existing store in Ladysmith. With private entrance & dock. Utilities included. Contact Hans or Kevin 250-245-0002 hans.perdersen@shaw. ca TIMBER-BUILDER - Post & beam, farm buildings, new constuction, concrete, custom beam work, gazebos, decks, finishing. All general contracting needs 250-924-5436 Timberbuilder@shaw.ca SHARE A LARGE OFFICE with a quiet, industrious web designer in the heart of downtown Ladysmith! Incl. WiFi, alarm, utilities, on-site or side street parking. $350 + HST. Call 250-245-8777. CLAIRVOYANT HEALER - Kalavati Gloria Yates, Spiritual Counselor, Healing Facilitator & highly respected third generation healer. Free lecture Aug. 12. Classes soon, Private sessions & lectures. 250-714-0034. OUR TOWN CLEANING SERVICES Thorough cleaning for both residential and commercial clients. Respectful of your privacy and treasures. Veteran Affairs Cards now accepted. Call Jacquie at 250-245-2455. BEAUTIFUL BLASTED ROCK excellent for landscaping and rock wall building 250748-0932. THREE MOUNTAIN BIKES, adult-sized, $100 each, BANDSAWS, craftsman and other, $100 obo, 250-816-4073.
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Sweet memories of Stanley Cup As with most issues and occurrences, we find it best to sit back and reflect on things before we jump in and put both feet squarely in our mouth. And yes, normally it wouldn’t take us a month for us to roll it around our brains, but well, we got a little sidetracked by a Steve Earle concert, life in general, and, probably most importantly, beer. Actually the last one was more of a helper than a sidetracker as that’s what we and hundreds of thousands of Vancouver Canuck fans cried into immediately after game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals versus them stinking Bruins. (Good news for you, Jeff Poulin, we now have another hockey team we hate ALMOST as much as the cruddy Maple Leafs.) Now, after a month and a half of reflection, we’ve decided that we’re not going to waste your time or ours on the immediate aftermath of game seven. We mean, come on, really? You invite a hundred thousand people downtown, add lots of alcohol and not very many police officers, and boom! That is the simplest recipe for a house wrecker of a party,
AUGUST 2011
dear reader. We’ve chosen to remind you of the Canucks play-off run right up until the drop of the puck to begin that dreaded final game. We’re not just talking about the hockey end of things, either, but the way a confident and hopeful spirit can infect and hypnotize an entire province of people. Now, now, don’t be shaking your head, Canuck haters. Even if you weren’t rooting for the Canucks or those boneheaded Bruins, at least admit you were paying attention. Geez Louise, we ALL were. A person couldn’t step foot in a grocery store or library or stroll Transfer Beach without seeing smiling people talking about the previous night’s game or that night’s upcoming one. Wasn’t that awesome? For those of us who remember 17 long years and one too many Nathan Lafeyette goalposts, we all could feel the difference between the Canucks 1994 near swipe of Lord Stanley’s mug. Back in ‘94 there was this ‘we’re just happy to be here’ vibe, but this year there was none of that. There was a beautiful scent in the air, and that awesome odor was confidence. The smell of confidence ranks right up there with hot buttered popcorn or a waft of KFC on a sunny day. That and the hockey itself should be what is remembered, dear reader. Not burning cars and busted windows, but the electricity, fun, frustration, joy, (and ultimately) sadness that this run brought each and every one of us. For us here on the Other Side, we now have memories of a lifetime. Whether it was watching nearly every game with our buddy Robby (and Jake, Luke, Julia, and Shawna’s delicious burgers) or watching the game with our dad on our 41st birthday or taking the game in with the oh-so-lovely Lisa at the Loghouse in Langford, each and every memory has been permanently etched into the ole memory bank. How about you, dear reader? I’m sure you have many or more of the same. Let’s remember that next year as we recall a certain team from Pittsburgh winning the Stanley Cup a year after they lost the Cup in what? You guessed it, seven games. Maybe next year we will be reflecting on what it means to be Stanley Cup champions.