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Letters Morden Mine society to continue I am pleased to announce that, during the November 2015 AGM, Friends of the Morden Mine succeeded in forming a new directorate to continue the society. The meeting was held in a conference room at the Chase River Country Grocer, a supporter of our society for many years, donating the use of this room to facilitate our monthly meetings.

FOMM is in the process of rearranging meetings to accommodate new board members. David Gogo, FOMM’s honorary president has supported our board; however, his busy schedule is yet to be determined. Co-Presidents Eric Ricker and John Hofman, Vice-President Tom Paterson and Director Jennifer Goodbrand have resigned from the board. Their contribution of ardent passion, hours of service and dedication is commendable!

Prior to the newly elected board, FOMM planned its culmination: to erect, in conjunction with BC Parks, a monument in honour of the coal miners’ and their families . The monument is in the process of being completed.

Returning board member Louise Shuker and newly-elected Sandra Larocque will serve in accordance with the co-presidency. Other elected members include former directors David Dunaway and Chris Sholberg; and, new to the board, Micheal Larocq, Christa Seggie and Larry Gambone. Further announcement of board positions is forthcoming. Frances Christopherson agreed to at least one more edition of FOMM’s newsletter. FOMM appreciates the steadfast volunteer commitment of Frances and the supportive role of her husband Charlie.

FOMM has worked diligently to ensure the headframe and tipple located at Morden Colliery Historic Provincial Park are repaired. The vision of preserving these historic structures will carry on. MCHP’s potential and interpretative centre has yet to be realized. Directors are counting on community support to bring FOMM’s goals to fruition. Membership forms are available at www.mordenmine.com. Your pledge will serve as an important cultural commitment in remembrance of the miners who, with their families, struggled to build our communities so many years ago.

- Louise Shuker, Co-President Friends of Morden Mine

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Are CVRD taxpayers willing to pay more on their property taxes for garbage and recycling changes?

CVRD Electoral Area taxpayers need to realize that the CVRD Garbage and Recycling Survey’s three boxes are just about user fees and not what it will really cost them — increases on their property taxes. The majority of the surveys are being collected before the Open House takes place in the taxpayers’ area, so how can users and taxpayers make informed decisions?

With new loans for trucks, etc, staff wages and numerous expenses needed to create new services, will the MultiMaterial BC rebate of $442,000 per year end up costing Electoral Area taxpayers millions?

If this system is so great, why is the North Cowichan not using these trucks and totes for their garbage and recycling pickups?

The CVRD Garbage and Recycling Survey does not ask CVRD taxpayers if they are willing to pay higher property taxes to cover the costs of these services.

At a May 2015 Area G (Saltair) meeting, the CVRD staff quoted a figure of $3.2 million. This would mean loans for trucks and totes, but what about staff costs? There would also be a need for more loans to cover the trucks for kitchen organic, glass and garden waste as the tote trucks are not designed to pick these items up.

The costs to the taxpayers on your property taxes not included in your user fees shown on the CVRD survey are: • Loans for garbage, recycle trucks and totes • Loans for trucks and totes for kitchen organic, glass and garden waste • Staff wages and benefits, truck repairs and replacement, fuel and so on.

For anyone interested in a more detailed breakdown of costs visit the 2016 Garbage and Recycling Budget website: http://www.cvrd.bc.ca/DocumentCenter/Home/View/7181.

In 2012, the CVRD staff made presentations in communities promoting the loans for trucks and totes. These presentations indicated that the MMBC rebate would be given back to users on their user fee. However, 2014 MMBC rebate of $17 per home and 2015 rebate of $34

per home indicate that this has not happen. Why? The MMBC contract is only for five years (it started mid-2014), so what happens to all these programs that the CVRD staff want the CVRD Electoral Area taxpayers to sign on for? And what about all the loans to service these programs?

What will the costs to the taxpayers be after the five years are up?

There is already a locally-owned and family-run business, PAN Disposal, operating in Electoral Areas A,B,C and a portion of D. For almost 40 years, this business supports these local communities with service and employment, and they are always going an extra mile for their customers.

One has to question why the CVRD has an economic development department that works to bring businesses into the CVRD areas when the CVRD is not supporting this already up and running business.

The motions the Electoral Area Service Committee directors carried at their 19 May 2015 and 18 Aug 2015 meetings bring into question if this survey is even a user survey. It seems more like a userfee-only survey?

The motions carried at these meeting were, as follows: • The CVRD maintain the status quo with respect to Electoral Area Curbside Collection.

• Staff be directed to develop a community engagement/education process regarding curbside collection, and report

back to the EASC with costs.

• Staff be directed to recommend reduced 2015 curbside collection fees, and report back to the Committee.

• The 2016 utility fees be reduced in accordance with Table 2 in the August 18, 2015, EASC report (agenda item R5); and that a cost estimate and user survey/consultation program be developed to assess additional diversion opportunities, to be funded by the remaining MMBC rebate.

On our property taxes all Electoral Areas taxpayers are paying for solid waste drop offs at Peerless, Meade, and Bings Creek drop-off depots. This is about $100 per property per year. I can save my kitchen meat scraps, freeze them and drop off my one-month collection of about one kilogram when I drop off my glass, flimsy plastic and Styrofoam.

As for most of my kitchen waste, I put that in our compost and then the new soil goes into the garden each year. Electoral Areas are made up of a majority of rural areas and most of the residents already compost their kitchen waste for use in their own yards.

The three-box user-fee survey just doesn’t say it all when it comes to the property tax increases that will happen to support the user fees shown.

- Lynne Smith, Saltair

Kudos for Town employees Another year of Light up is here. In all the articles I read about how much the volunteers do for the Festival of

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Lights in Ladysmith..not once does anyone mention the hours of work put in by the Town employees who put up lights, decorations and road blockades and do some traffic control also. So this year I want to thank all the Town workers who spend their time making the Festival of Lights a success. I know they are paid but they also need to be congratulated for all the work they do too. Thanks for doing a Super Job Town Employees..

- Gord Barney

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Year in Review:

First year in office In some ways, it is hard to believe a whole year has passed since I was sworn in as Mayor on December 1, 2014. This is a time for reflection and an opportunity to share some of the many highlights and impressions from the last 12 months.

I ran on a campaign of “Ask hard questions. Make solid plans. Let’s build a foundation for our future.”

We have asked a lot of questions over the past year — probing, detailed, and yes, hard questions. I have learned a lot through the answers to these questions. I have learned just how much work goes into providing core services: water, sewage, garbage pickup and recreational opportunities, keeping roads, sidewalks and parks in good condition, administering bylaws and council meetings, and serving our citizens. I’ve learned that the answers to hard questions aren’t always easy to hear, and I’ve learned that if you want to be successful in making and implementing solid plans, you need to take the time to lay a solid foundation first.

Economic development remains a priority, and Council wants to stimulate investment and business success in our local economy. I am very encouraged that after a review of economic development at the Regional District, it looks as though there may be funds available to directly support economic development projects in CVRD communities like Ladysmith. Once we endorse the CVRD direction, we will move ahead with an updated economic development strategy for Ladysmith, making sure all the key players are at the table.

We are investing in our downtown in a number of ways.

The Gatacre Street project is a significant improvement featuring new sidewalks, curbs and gutters. The Town also made an important investment in the future of our downtown core by purchasing a block of properties from the Ladysmith and District Credit Union on Buller Street and First Avenue. This will eventually be the site of a new City Hall. In the meantime, we are very pleased that the Ladysmith Museum can continue to

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enjoy its home on First Avenue. We continue to explore other opportunities for interim uses for this site, which may include public space, overflow parking or other supporting amenities.

One of the most important things I learned soon after being sworn in as Mayor is just how much we need to invest in the Town’s infrastructure. This area is where we made some of the greatest progress this year, as well as some of our toughest decisions. Our new, state-of-the-art waste water (sewage) treatment plant is well underway and on track to be in service in 2016. This is the largest capital project the Town has ever undertaken. We also need to install a new water filtration system as mandated

by Island Health to ensure we continue to provide safe drinking water for our citizens and neighbours. We are hopeful we will get grant funding to help with this big project. Both City Hall and the Fire Hall need to be upgraded or replaced. Roads, sidewalks, sewer and water systems need ongoing maintenance

and repairs. Faced with this reality, we decided to set aside five per cent of taxation revenues for asset replacement. This was the responsible thing to do. It was also a very difficult decision, as it meant we had to increase taxes, and no one on Council wanted to do that.

With this tough decision, we now have a framework to proceed with investments in ongoing maintenance and renewal of our assets and infrastructure. Next we will update related plans and policies, including the Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan, Pavement Strategy, and Development Cost Charges.

Awareness of our water supply came to the forefront this year with the summer drought. Thanks to your efforts and the early introduction of Stage 3 water restrictions across the Cowichan Region, we retained about the same amount of water in our reservoir as in 2014, despite the lack of rain. Council adopted a water conservation policy, with a target to reduce consumption to 200 litres per day per person, a reduction of 20 per cent. The Town is very active in a new initiative that should lead to the creation of an inclusive, multi-party Ladysmith Watershed Steering Committee, with Paddling Together Aboriginal Day. Photo: Town of Ladysmith

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representatives from the general public, landowners, the Town, the business community and First Nations. We have had an initial public meeting, and the subsequent work is showing good progress. Watch for more news early in 2016.

The state of the Ladysmith Harbour and our waterfront is an ongoing concern, and here too we have made progress this year. We are working with the province and Stz’uminus First Nation on plans to improve the environmental and economic health of the harbour. This also involves removing the derelict and abandoned vessels in DL 651 (the ‘Dogpatch’). Although the Town doesn’t have direct jurisdiction over the area (it belongs to the province), our Zoning Bylaw does apply, and it doesn’t permit vessels to be moored there for more than seven days. In moving to clean up the Harbour, we also want to be sensitive to the area’s residents. We are forming a stakeholder group, made up of residents, community members, First Nations and other users of the harbour, to address concerns and find a workable and sustainable solution.

I am also very pleased with our new nuisance abatement and property maintenance bylaws, which clearly identify nuisances — in the form of properties, noise, graffiti and other disturbances — that affect your ability to enjoy your own property. Most important, they provide bylaw officials and the RCMP with the tools they need to take real action on chronic nuisance properties. Once a property is designated a nuisance prop-

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erty by Council, the cost of services, such as numerous police calls, can be recovered through the offending property’s taxes under this new system. Since the introduction of these bylaws, one of the worst offending properties in the community is now boarded up.

One of the most rewarding things in the last year for me has been the growth of a genuinely warm and respectful relationship with Chief John Elliott and the Stz’uminus First Nation. As we move ahead on projects that will benefit both our communities — harbour clean-up, economic development and cultural celebration, to name a few — we are learning to appreciate our differences and embrace our similarities and shared goals.

It was also important to me that we engage more citizens, be more inclusive and transparent, and communicate effectively with more of you. The Town is now active on Facebook, and we will be doing more social media in the upcom-

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ing year. We will also start streaming and archiving video of our Council meetings.

I’m very pleased at the increase in attendance at Council meetings.

I want and hope to keep hearing from you. I want you to ask hard questions of me and Council. I want you to keep giving us your input. The answers we give you may not always be easy to hear, but I hope you will discover that we do indeed listen and consider your views.

Looking forward, we are nearly finished our new strategic plan (more details on that early in the new year) with our priorities for 2016 and beyond. We have worked hard in the past year and I am proud of what we have accomplished. I will admit that some things haven’t moved as fast as I — and perhaps you — might have expected, but I can tell you, we are building the foundation and making solid long-term plans that will pay off in real progress for our community.

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Wildwood Ecoforest secured There was a collective sigh of relief when the news finally came that the Land Conservancy of B.C. (TLC) and the Ecoforestry Institute Society (EIS) signed an agreement to transfer ownership of Yellow Point’s Wildwood Ecoforest to EIS in exchange for a $900,000 contribution. The agreed upon offer includes $110,000 in TLC creditor forgiveness and $790,000 in direct funds.

TLC acquired Wildwood Ecoforest from Merv Wilkinson and his family in 2000 with TLC Member and donor support, with the goal of operating the site as an example of Merv’s practice of sustainable eco-forestry.

“The Ecoforestry Institute Society is thrilled to acquire Wildwood and hold

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it on behalf of the public,” said Peter Jungwirth, EIS Chair. “EIS has a long association with Wildwood and our ability to continue as stewards of Wildwood honours Merv Wilkinson’s vision and legacy.” Jungwirth thanked all the donors, and acknowledged the Wildwood Protectors who was a strong public voice in recent months. “The support and faith the entire community has shown us is rewarding and humbling, and we hope we can continue to rely on that support as we move forward to unfold the full potential of Wildwood.”

TLC will bring the offer to Court by early December. The agreement calls for the transfer of the property to be completed by December 11, 2015.

What this means is that the Ecoforestry Institute Society can now get on with the business of managing Wildwood to its fullest potential on behalf of the public. This means involving the public in what they would like to see from Wildwood, develop an operations fund, continue renovations on Merv’s old house and other projects, according to Kathy Code, EIS Communications Director.

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Wildwood Protectors member Cheryl Bancroft at Wildwood Ecoforest.

Photo: Marina Sacht

“We’ll be conducting ecoforestry practices and offering educational opportunities to learn about tree harvesting. As well, we’ll be ramping up our other educational offerings, such as ecotours and workshops, plant identification, mushrooms, etc.”

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While the legal wrangling may be behind them, fundraising is still a priority. You can show your support by becoming a member or making a donation at ecoforestry.ca. or buy a ticket to the New Year’s Party at Wildwood. Advance tickets by sliding scale donation (minimum $45). To purchase your ticket, visit www.paulandjessrock.com. All proceeds will fund Wildwood Ecoforest.

Trail users shut out of Hemer and Boat Harbour A group of concerned riders and hikers called the Cedar Trail Stewards are concerned about the blocked access to historically used roads and trails and the loss of public right of way in the Boat Harbour area.

Last year a new landowner blocked access to the rail bed trail continuing from Hemer Park to Boat Harbour other branch roads and trails. Because of the blockade, a significant section of Hemer Park is no longer accessible by land. These blocked roads and trails contain important segments of the Morden Colliery trail network.

Although trails run through private property the group is looking to the province and the Regional District to explore common law rights of way as these are trails used historically by the public.

Long time Cedar-by-the-Sea residents Jim and Anne Fiddick say this is the latest example of private land owners encroaching on historically public trails. “It’s part of a bigger problem along the coast where trails and public beach access is being encroached and blocked off by owners.” Jim whose family settled in Cedar and South Wellington in the 1860’s recalls walking and riding through the Hemer farm to Boat Harbour as kids.

Deborah Blum calls the trail situation in Trail users are shut out of Cedar’s trails and Hemer Park.

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Cedar abysmal. She would not have moved from Europe where connecting trails, walking and riding are a priority. “I live in the country, but there is really nowhere I can ride my horse, unless I trailer it. Same goes for hiking.”

They are not alone. Recently the Horse Council BC with 24,000 plus members threw in their support for the Cedar Trail Stewards efforts to preserve access to roads and trails leading to the Boat Harbour waterfront and neighbouring areas. In a letter to the Regional District of Nanaimo they urged “a way to accommodate the needs of trail users in Nanaimo to preserve access to those areas.” An online petition has close to a thousand signatures asking for open access.

For more information on Cedar Trail Stewards and to sign the petition visit https://cedartrails.wordpress.com/

13th Annual Small Business BC Awards Two small businesses in Ladysmith have been nominated in the 13th Annual Small Business BC. Awards: Coast Salish Development Corporation for Best Community Impact and Confident Stages for Best Concept. The winners will be announced at the ceremony on Feb. 25, 2016 in Vancouver.

Blues Concert in Cedar Juno award winner Ken Hamm and Friends will play at the Cedar Community Hall. This is the kick-off to the Cedar Farmers Market 20th anniversary celebration. The main celebration will be July 17. Tickets are online at cedarfarmersmarket.org or get them at the door.

Haircut benefits veterans, children with cancer Rain Stacey, Ladysmith resident is going to have her long locks cut to support two causes dear to her heart. She will be fundraising and looking for sponsors to support Veterans through Legion Branch #171. Her long hair is to be donated for

The members of Ladysmith Fire/Rescue are shown offering Manager Zade Cawley of the Ladysmith Save On Foods a Certificate of Appreciation for the store’s generous support of the Haunted House event held on October 24 and 25. “This year was considered to be very successful in raising $2500, which will be donated to the Multiple Sclerosis Society,” stated LFD member Kim Irwin. Over 350 attended the Haunted House and with its success, this fundraiser will now be an annual event. (l-r) Kim Irwin, Owen Burt and James McAdam from LFD and Save On Manager Zade Cawley.

Photo: AllenMcDermid

Come and cheer on Santa at the Ladysmith Fire Rescue’s annual Santa Claus Parade on Dec 20, 2015 with the following stops and times: Stop 1 – 4pm Brown Drive, Stop 2 – 5pm, 4th Ave. & French St., Stop 3 – 6pm, 4th Ave. & Methuen St., Stop 4 – 7pm, Diamond Hall, Stop 5 – 8pm Wigwam Restaurant downtown and final Stop – 9pm Davis Road School.

wigs to “Angel Hair for Kids” through A Child’s Voice Foundation.

Rain’s father served in the Second World War in the Canadian Infantry. Rain believes strongly in supporting the Veterans who have served, and those who continue to keep our way of life free and safe.

The event will be in the upstairs lounge of RCL #171, located on 1st Ave., January 30th at 6:30 pm. Admission at the door. A ticket for a burger and beer/pop is $10 for adults, and children are free.

Polio Gala at Cottonwood The Rotary Club of Ladysmith is inviting the public to a “The Faces of Polio” Gala on December 5 at Cottonwood Golf and Country Club. This is the club’s major fundraiser for the World’s Greatest Meal to End Polio and Polio Plus. Every dollar raised will be matched with two dollars by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and another two dollars by the Government of Canada.

The gala includes a special presentation by Polio survivor Joan Toone, president of the Post Polio Awareness and Support Society of B.C., and Susanne Rea of the Rotary Club of Cairns Sunrise, Queensland, Australia, who is Partner/Global Team Coordinator of the World’s Greatest Meal.

“Travelling the world to help end polio is a very positive experience because of the wonderful people I meet,” says Rea. Tickets are Susanne Rea of the Rotary Club $15 per person and includes of Cairns Sunrise, Queensland, door prizes, canapes and a Australia, Coordinator of the glass of wine. There will also World’s Greatest Meal will be a be music, wine and appetis- guest speaker at Polio Gala.

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ers at Cottonwood Golf and Country Club from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. If any of you would like to attend or donate to this worthy cause, please contact Cheryl at 250-245-2024 or cherylis@ shaw.ca. (www.wgmeal.com).

Malcolmson critic for Status of Women NDP Leader Tom Mulcair appointed local NDP MP Sheila Malcolmson to serve as the Critic for the Status of Women in Canada’s progressive opposition.

Malcolmson will push for the NDP’s priorities on the Status of Women file, including making childcare affordable, ending violence against women, and holding an inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women.

“A lot of work has been done here in Nanaimo–Ladysmith to advance women’s and girl’s equality, but there remains much to be done locally and throughout Canada,” Malcolmson said.

“I Love Saltair” extravaganza and party On Saturday February 6, from 10 am to 4 pm, the Saltair Community Centre, formerly the Mount Brenton School (3850 South Oyster School Road), will host a party for all the residents of Saltair and surrounding area as well as anyone who attended the former Mount Brenton School.

A free lunch will include wholesome food from local businesses, featuring gluten-free and vegan foods, and good old fun food options, such as pizza and burgers. Entertainment will be provided by singer-songwriter Terry Boyle, as well as games, activities and displays featuring the centre’s many uses.

5th Annual Open House at Nanaimo Airport People came out to attend the annual open house, on November 4, to learn about and tour the Nanaimo airport. The open house’s Winter Wonderland theme celebrated the airport’s new WestJet Nanaimo–Edmonton flights that starts December 15.

Visitors to the open house also learned more about the global travel connections that are now available to central Islanders.

“We look forward to our open house every year because it allows people to share information about our operations and receive feedback,” says President and CEO of the Commission Mike Hooper. “It gives us a chance to show our appreciation for all the support we get from our neighbours and partners in the communities we serve.” Passenger traffic increased 16.6 per cent in the first nine months of 2015.

Vince Herkle of Ladysmith Sound Centre, one of Ladysmith’s longest running businesses says good-bye. Photo: Allen McDermid.

Thanks for 40 years - owner retires The Ladysmith and area community wishes Vince Herkle all the best as he prepares to close the doors of the Ladysmith Sound Centre after 40 years of business within the community.

Vince first started with a Radio Shack store in 1976 which was located at Coronation Mall. After 10 years he relocated under the same banner to 514 First Avenue. Over the next 30 years the store has had a few name changes; Radio Shack; The Source and over the last 6 years Ladysmith Sound Centre. Vince has been a very active member in the Ladysmith neighborhood. He has been associated with the Chamber of Commerce: President of Tourism for Vancouver Island; the Kinsmen Club, the Downtown Business Assoc.; President of the Railway Society (1980’s); and after 20 years of involvement with the Ladysmith Horseshoe Club Vince was just inducted this year into the Horseshoe Hall of Fame in Vancouver. In 1987 Vince was also selected as Ladysmith’s Citizen of the Year.

Vince has been a strong promoter of the businesses and people of Ladysmith. “I enjoy people” he says.

“Thank you for your patronage over the past 40 years.”

COMPILED BY CINDY DAMPHOUSSE AND ALLEN MCDERMID

December 1-5 1–17, 10am to 2pm, 2015 Christmas Cheer Fund at the Ladysmith Resources Centre, every Tues, Wed, Thurs, info 250-245-3079 or www.lcra.ca 1–5, 7:30pm, Elf: The Musical — a holiday special, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820 3–24, noon to 4pm, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery — Santa’s Workshop Out of the Ordinary Gifts — Sponsor Bayview framing and Turning Point Arts, Open Tuesday to Sunday

5, 9am to 3pm, Providence Farm — Christmas Craft Sale — Tzouhalem Road, Duncan

7, 4:45pm, Monday Bingo, Chemainus Senior Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111

5, 10am to 4pm, Jonanco Arts and Crafts Christmas Sale — Corner of Nanaimo River & White Rapids Rd., on the way to Gogo’s Christmas Tree Farm — Free admission

7, 7pm, Ladysmith Council Meeting, City Hall, 410 Esplanade, 250-245-6400

5, 1pm, Live Afternoon Music at the Wheaty, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3141

9, 6:30pm, Christmas Concert, St. Joseph’s School, 9735 Elm St., Chemainus, 250-246-3191

December 6-12 6–12, 10am to 2pm, 2015 Christmas Cheer Fund at the Ladysmith Resources Centre, every Tues, Wed, Thurs, info 250-245-3079 or www.lcra.ca

4–5, Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular, let the cast whisk you away to a winter wonderland, Cedar Community Hall, 250-754-8550

6–12, Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular, let the cast whisk you away to a winter wonderland, Cedar Community Hall, 250-754-8550

4–8, Ladysmith Museum open, 721 First Ave.

6, 10am to 4pm, Jonanco Arts and Crafts Christmas Sale — Corner of Nanaimo River & White Rapids Rd., on the way to Gogo’s Christmas Tree Farm — Free admission

4, 5pm to 8pm, 4th Annual Old Tyme Christmas Candlelight Walk, downtown Ladysmith 4,2pm, Lady Day — The music of Billie Holiday — St Michael’s Church, Chemainus, info at www. cvcas.com 4–5, 8pm, Lady Day — The music of Billie Holiday — Crofton Pub, info at www.cvcas.com 5, 8am to 12:30, Breakfast with Santa hosted by LaFF, 2 seatings, tickets $8 available at FJCC, Aggie Hall 1110 1st Ave. 5, 10am to 2pm, Men’s Bake Sale — Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre 5, 10am to 4pm, Winter Craft Sale — Ladysmith Primary School, 6th Avenue — Funds raised to the purchase of a handheld computer station for the school, info Kathy at kbcgonzales@gmail.com 5, Rotary 2nd Polio Plus Gala called the “Faces of Polio” fundraiser for a Polio Free World at the Cottonwood Golf Club. There will be a Live and Silent Auction.

5, 11am to 5pm, 17th Annual Nanaimo Art Walk, downtown and old city

6, 2pm to 4pm, Concerts On Screen — Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre 6. 3pm to 5pm, Candlelight Vigil Honouring Missing and Murdered Women, Sands Funeral Chapel, 187 Trunk Road, Duncan, 250-748-7000 or www.cwav.org 6, 11am to 5pm, 17th Annual Nanaimo Art Walk, downtown and old city

8, 1pm, Christmas Concert, St. Joseph’s School, 9735 Elm St., Chemainus, 250-246-3191

9, 5pm, LRCA Wednesday Bingo, St. Mary’s Hall, 1135 4th Ave., 250-245-3079 10, 2pm, 9 & Dine, golf and a delicious meal, Cottonwood Golf Course, 250-245-5157 10, 6pm, Family Christmas Dinner — Cottonwood Golf Course, reserve 250-245-5157 10, 7:30pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-924-0658 10, 8pm, Name that Tune at the Wheaty, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3141 11,5pm, Christmas Dinners — Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre, members $15, guests $20, bar open, entertainment: ladies and men’s choirs 11, 6pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-924-0658 12, 5pm, Chemainus Neighbourhood House’s Community Christmas Pot Luck Dinner, sittings at 5,6 & 7pm. Call 250 246-3203 or come in

6, 6pm, The Rock Christian Fellowship meets every Sunday evening, at Eagle’s Hall, Ladysmith.

For more information call 250-245-4797

12, 5pm, Christmas Dinners — Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre, members $15, guests $20, bar open, entertainment includes ladies and men’s choirs

6–12, 7:30pm, Elf: The Musical — a holiday special, Chemainus Theatre, 250-246-9820

12, 6pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-924-0658

6, 9:30am to 11am, Baha’I Children’s classes, 250-327-0823

12, 2pm and 7pm, Nutcracker, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 250-748-7529

7, Seniors Day at the Wheaty, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3141

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7, 11:30, Soup and Sandwich, Ladysmith Seniors ladysmithseniorscentre.ca/calendar/

13–17, 10am to 2pm, 2015 Christmas Cheer Fund at the Ladysmith Resources Centre, every Tues, Wed, Thurs, info 250-245-3079 or www.lcra.ca

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13, 2-4pm, Concerts On Screen — Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre 13, 2pm, Chemainus Classical Concerts, Sheila Johnson’s choirs: “Unfolding Delights” — Chemainus United Church — Tickets: $20, child $5, in advance $17. Call 250-748-8383

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20, 3pm, Ladysmith Fire/Rescue Santa Clause Parade, meet Santa, the parade makes its way from Brown Drive to Ecole Davis Rd. Elementary 20, 6pm, The Rock Christian Fellowship meets every Sunday evening, at the Eagle’s Hall, Ladysmith. For information call 250-245-4797

13, 2pm, Winter Harp, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 250-748-7529

20–26, 7:30pm, Elf: The Musical — a holiday special, Chemainus Theatre, 250-246-9820

13, 6pm, The Rock Christian Fellowship meets every Sunday evening, at the Eagle’s Hall, Ladysmith. For more information call 250-2454797

21, 11:30, Soup and Sandwich, Ladysmith Seniors at the Resource Centre, 630 2nd Avenue, www. ladysmithseniorscentre.ca/calendar/

13–19, 7:30pm, Elf: The Musical — a holiday special, Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-2469820

21, 7pm, Ladysmith Council Meeting, City Hall, 410 Esplanade, 250-245-6400 21, 4:45pm, Monday Bingo, Chemainus Senior Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111

13, 9:30am to 11am, Baha’I Children’s classes, 250-327-0823

21, 7:30pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-924-0658

13, Mt. Brenton Power & Sail Squadron, Christmas Sail Past at Transfer Beach, Ladysmith, 250 245-8620

21, 7:30pm, International Guitar Night, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 250-748-7529

13, Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular, let the cast whisk you away to a winter wonderland, Cedar Community Hall, 250-754-8550 14, 11:30am, Soup and Sandwich, Ladysmith Seniors at the Resource Centre, 630 2nd Avenue, www.ladysmithseniorscentre.ca/calendar/

22, 9am to noon, Food Bank Tuesdays, 630 2nd Ave., 250-245-3079 23, 5pm, LRCA Wednesday Bingo, St. Mary’s Hall, 1135 4th Ave., 250-245-3079 24, 8pm, Name that Tune at the Wheaty, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3141

14, 4:45pm, Monday Bingo, Chemainus Senior Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111

26, 6pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-924-0658

16, 5pm, LRCA Wednesday Bingo, St. Mary’s Hall, 1135 4th Ave., 250-245-3079

December 27-31

17, 6pm, Family Christmas Dinner — Cottonwood Golf Course, reserve 250-245-5157 17, 7:30pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-924-0658 17, 8pm, Name that Tune at the Wheaty, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3141 17, 9pm, Ugly Sweater Contest at the Wheaty, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3141 18, 6pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-924-0658 18, 7pm, Celebration of Lights, join area musicians in this annual fundraiser for the food bank, Eagles Hall 19, 1pm, Live Afternoon Music at the Wheaty, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3141 19, 6pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-924-0658

27, 1:30pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-924-0658 27, 6pm, The Rock Christian Fellowship meets every Sunday evening, at the Eagle’s Hall Ladysmith. For information call 250-245-4797 27–31, 7:30pm, Elf: The Musical — a holiday special, Chemainus Theatre, 250-246-9820 28, 11:30am, Soup and Sandwich, Ladysmith Seniors at the Resource Centre, 630 2nd Avenue, www.ladysmithseniorscentre.ca/calendar 28–30, 7:30pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-9240658 31, 7pm, Ladysmith Legion Br 171 — New Year’s Eve Dance: Chevy Ray and the Fins — Snacks at 11, tickets $30, 621 1St Ave., info 250-245-2273

December 20-26

31, doors open at 6pm, dinner at 7pm, New Year’s Eve Dinner And Dance — Chemainus Seniors Centre — Dancing and fun to Andy McCormack, tickets $30

20, 1:30pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-924-0658

31, 6pm, New Year’s Eve Party at the Wheaty, 1866 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3141

20, 2pm to 4pm, Concerts On Screen — Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre

31, New Year’s Eve Celebration, Mahle House, 2 seatings, 250-722-3621

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31, 7pm, New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dance — Cottonwood Golf Course — 250-245-5157 31, 8pm, Dorothy Gets Scrooged, Ladysmith Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd., 250-924-0658 1–31, Festival of Lights, downtown Ladysmith 1–31, Elf: The Musical — Chemainus Festival Theatre, 250-246-9820

Jan 1–2 1, noon, Polar Bear Swim, Transfer Beach 2, noon to 4pm, The Short Show, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr.

Jan 3–9 3–9, noon to 4pm, The Short Show, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 3, 6pm, The Rock Christian Fellowship meets every Sunday evening, at the Eagle’s Hall, Ladysmith. For more information call 250-245-4797 4, 11:30am, Soup and Sandwich, Ladysmith Seniors at the Resource Centre, 630 2nd Avenue, www. ladysmithseniorscentre.ca/calendar/ 4, 4:45pm, Monday Bingo, Chemainus Senior Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111 5, 9am to noon, Food Bank Tuesdays, 630 2nd Ave., 250-245-3079 6, 5pm, LRCA Wednesday Bingo, St. Mary’s Hall, 1135 4th Ave., 250-245-3079

Jan 10–16 10–16, noon to 4pm, The Short Show, Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 10, 6pm, The Rock Christian Fellowship meets every Sunday evening, at the Eagle’s Hall, Ladysmith. For more information call 250-245-4797 10–11, TheatreOne presents “What We Did on Our Holiday,” Avalon Cinema, 250-754-7587 11, 11:30am, Soup and Sandwich, Ladysmith Seniors at the Resource Centre, 630 2nd Avenue, www.ladysmithseniorscentre.ca/calendar/ 11, 4:45pm, Monday Bingo, Chemainus Senior Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111 12, 9am to noon, Food Bank Tuesdays, 630 2nd Ave., 250-245-3079 13, 5pm, LRCA Wednesday Bingo, St. Mary’s Hall, 1135 4th Ave., 250-245-3079

(l-r) Elf the Musical Dec 1-31 Polar Bear Swim Jan 1 International Guitar Jan 21

December Services 13, 10:30am, White Gifts and Poinsettia Sunday, Ladysmith United Church, 232 High St., 250-245-2183 19, 5pm, Simbang Gabi at St. Mary’s Parish — Come join in this unique Philippine tradition, sing Filipino songs, share in the camaraderie and learn more about Philippine culture, 1135 4th Ave., 250-245-3414 20, 10am, Children’s Christmas Pageant, St Philip Church Cedar — All kids welcome to participate, 1797 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3455 Dec 20, 7pm, Christmas Pageant, Cedar United Church,1644 Cedar Rd. 1-250-650-6413 20, 10am, Lessons and Carols, St. John Church, Ladysmith, 314 Buller St. 24, 4pm, Family Service, Oceanview Community Church, 381 Davis Rd.,

For more information visit take5.ca/events 250-245-5113 24, 6:30pm, Christingle service — a family service — St Philip Church, Cedar, 1797 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3455 Dec 204 9:30am, Christmas Eve Service, Cedar United Church,1644 Cedar Rd. 1-250-650-6413 24, 7pm, Christmas Eve Service, Ladysmith United Church, 232 High St., 250-245-2183 24, 7pm, Candlelight Service, Oceanview Community Church, 381 Davis Rd., 250-245-5113 24, 7pm, Christmas Vigil Mass, St. Joseph’s, Chemainus, 9735 Elm St., 250246-3260 24, 7pm, Christmas Eve Service, Bethel Pentecostal, 1149 4th Ave., La-

dysmith 250-245-8221 24, 7:30pm, Christmas Candlelight Worship, St. John Church, Ladysmith, 314 Buller St. 24, 8:30pm, Carols & Choir, St. Mary’s, 1135 4th Ave., 250-245-3414 24, 9pm, Christmas Vigil Mass, St. Mary’s, 1135 4th Ave., 250-245-3414 25, 9am, Nativity of Our Lord, St. Mary’s, 1135 4th Ave., 250-245-3414 24, 10:30am, Nativity of Our Lord, St. Joseph’s, Chemainus, 9735 Elm St., 250-246-3260 27, 10am, 1st Sunday after Christmas Worship, St Philip Church, Cedar, 1797 Cedar Rd., 250-722-3455 27, 10am, 1st Sunday after Christmas Worship, St. John Church, Ladysmith, 314 Buller St. 27, 10:30am, Advent Service, Bethel Pentecostal, 1149 4th Ave., Ladysmith 250-245-8221

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Dorothy Gets Scrooged A departure from the regular Panto this year, Ladysmith Little Theatre proudly presents “Dorothy Gets Scrooged.” This irreverently hilarious musical is a creative mash up of two favorite seasonal classics: Charles Dickens’ immortal classic, A Christmas Carol, and Frank L. Baums’ The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. After Dorothy returned from the land of Oz, she becomes business partners with the suspiciously familiar woman next door, Elvira Havisham. Sadly, Elvira dies, but when Dorothy becomes like Dickens’ Scrooge, Elvira’s ghost visits her to begin a new journey for Dorothy. Through presenting the past, the present and a not so glorious future in turn, three more vaguely familiar ghosts try to show Dorothy the errors of her ways. However, it does not end quite the way you think it should..

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Most of the cast is familiar to Ladysmith audiences: Chris Ostaffy as kindly Bob Scratchet, Lynnia Clark as the Wicked Witch, Bill Johnston as Scarecrow, Torry Clark as the Lion and Lauren Semple as Dorothy. Newcomers Rob Bradford (Tinman), Joan Carruthers (Hattie) and Sharron McLeod (Martha Joe) round out the cast of eight, who play the 25 characters in the production. Mary Jackson provides the musical support.

“Dorothy Gets Scrooged” runs Dec 10–31 at Ladysmith Little Theatre. Tickets are $20 and available through Ladysmith Little Theatre Box Office 250-9240658 or online www.ladysmiththeatre. com. Preshow meals are also available for $20 on Friday/Saturday nights, catered by Bread & Butter Catering.

cal comedy and a modern story of finding the place where you belong.

“It’s got abundant wishes, a grand journey, and tons of joy to fill your stockings” says Director Mark DuMez. “You can even take “elfies” on set before the show, right when Santa’s coming to town.”

Combining talents with Choreographer Jessica Hickman and returning Musical Director Brad L’Écuyer, the trio has created a polished, high-energy classic of this Broadway show. Brad leads a live three-piece band, including: Alicia Murray and Nico Rhodes who perform 18 resounding pieces.

Show runs to December 31, 2015 at 1-800-565-7738 or chemainustheatre.ca.

Elf: The Musical charms

Last chance to catch tribute to Billie Holiday

This holiday season, the Chemainus Theatre Festival proudly presents one of its biggest shows of the year, “Elf: The Musical.” Based on the motion picture of the same name, “Elf: The Musical” will entertain kids or grown-ups with festive music, energetic dancing, physi-

Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill is played by Glaucia Desrochers. The musical continues until Dec. 5 in verious venues in Chemainus and Crofton.

For more information, visit www.cvcas.com/ladyday.

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How to spread that Christmas Cheer

BY MARINA SACHT “I’ve seen and met angels wearing the disguise of ordinary people living ordinary lives,” sings Tracy Chapman. T’is the season of giving and everywhere you look a miracle is taking place.

Whether it’s personal loss or financial difficulties, Christmas can be a depressing time for many. But thanks to volunteers and the community, many people, despite their problems, will be able to celebrate.

Here are some of the programs going on in our community.

They can all use a hand if you can help.

The Christmas Cheer Program is the longest running program in Ladysmith. Since 1934, it has helped make Christmas brighter for many in the community. This program is administered through the Ladysmith Resources Centre. You can make a donation or drop off a new or near new toy. It will be distributed with food hampers to needy people in the Ladysmith area, providing them with a Christmas dinner and a few extras they may not otherwise have over the festive season.

The Ladysmith Resources Centre holds funds in trust each year and cash donations are deposited with tax receipts issued if requested. This fund is used exclusively to purchase the food from local merchants that goes into the hampers. Volunteers sort and select gifts for children up to age 16. On the day prior to packing of the hampers, community food donations are either picked up or delivered to the Aggie Hall, where it is sorted into individual or family boxes.

Registration for a hamper goes until December 17, with delivery December 23. For more information, call 250-245-3079 or lrca.bc.ca How you can help: Tax deductible contributions (cash or cheque) payable to “Christmas Cheer Fund” at the LRCA. Please donate non-perishable foods, new or near new toys, books or games, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm up to December 18. Or drop off your donation at Ladysmith Insurance Centre at Coronation Mall, Curves, or Ladysmith & District Credit Union.

The Food Bank Needs Your Help This is a lean time for the Ladysmith Food Bank. There are many people coming to the bank every Tuesday, representing 300 to 350 people. “Some are single, some are parents with one or two children, and some have larger families,” says Caroline Davidson. Did you know that the purchasing power of a monetary donation is three times the value of packaged food gifts? The buyers look Carline Davidson Ladysmith Food Bank. Photo submitted

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Celtic Rock band Skellig are hosting the Ladysmith Celebration of Light and donating proceeds from their new song Child Of Grace about Ladysmith. Photo submitted.

for special sales so the money you give goes a long way. “Our neighbourhood families will appreciate all the things you give for a Merry Christmas from the food bank,” says Davidson.

How you can help: Drop off non-perishable food or write a cheque for the Ladysmith Food Bank and give it to the Ladysmith Resources Centre where the food bank is located. You can also donate at a local church or the Food Bank bins at Save On and the 49th Grocery stores.

The Ladysmith Eagle’s auxiliary is collecting toiletries for the food bank at their December 10th meeting.

How you can help: Drop some off under the Christmas tree in the Eagles Lounge.

Kick one in Richard Hill came up with a plan that makes it easy for restaurant and institutions to contribute to the food bank. While getting his regular food delivery for Yellow Point Lodge, Hill realized that it would be easy to add another case of food to his order and have it earmarked for delivery to the food bank.

Started by him over 10 years ago, the ‘Kick One In’ is a program operated by participating Sysco food service companies for the benefit of local food banks. It allows Sysco customers to have tax deductable food donations delivered to their closest member food banks on the Island. For more information, visitkickonein.org.

At the end of the year, your local food bank will total up all the donations you’ve made over the year, and send you a tax deductible, charitable donation receipt for your records. You can then deduct that amount from your annual food costs, add it to charitable donations and the circle is complete.

How you can help: If you work at a company that orders wholesale food, encourage them to “throw one in.”

Ladysmith Celebration of Light Started by Celtic Rock band Skellig, the Ladysmith Celebration of Light is an annual benefit for the Ladysmith Soup Kitchen and Food Bank. This family-friendly concert will be held on December 18 at the Eagles Hall. Tickets are $7.50 PLUS a cash/food donation.

Admission includes desserts, tea, coffee and hot chocolate.

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Live music will be performed by Skellig, Ryan McMahon, Kendall Patrick and the Headless Bettys, Terry Boyle, Chopped Liver Orchestree, Chris Andres, David Bitonti, Elf Song and carols by the Celebration Brass Band.

The Ladysmith Celebration of Light fundraiser is run by local townsfolk, chaired by the Rock Christian Fellowship, and sponsored by local businesses, service clubs, individuals and churches.

All proceeds go to feeding our community and making it a great place for everyone. To date they have raised over $25,000. Tickets are available at the Ladysmith 49th Parallel Grocery.

Between now and December 31st, Skellig is donating all the profits from their new song “Child Of Grace” to the Ladysmith Soup Kitchen. This project is part of the Celebration of Light Event.

It’s only $2, but you can donate more.

How you can help: Take your family to the show and bring a cash or food donation.

Download Skellig’s new Christmas song with all proceeds to the Ladysmith Soup Kitchen: https://skellig. bandcamp.com/track/child-of-Grace Coats for folks Coats for Folks is now open at 710 First Avenue (the old Employment Navigators building).There you will find good quality, clean coats, sweaters, boots, hats and mitts free to anyone who needs them thanks to the generosity of the community, and the Ladysmith Healthcare.

The store is open 10 am to 4 pm, Tuesday through Friday from now through February. They have had hundreds of people come in looking for warm, dry clothing for “...babies, boys, girls, teens, women and men,” says Myf Plecas, “and especially men’s and children’s clothing.” After hours and weekend donations can be dropped off at Mr. Poppers Sweet Shoppe at 32 High Street.

How you can help: Donate any of your good quality, warm clothing. Sign up to help operate the store as they are in urgent need of volunteers.

ShoeBox Project The Shoebox Project in the Ladysmith area provides gift-filled shoeboxes during the holiday season to women living in a shelter. The shoeboxes contain gifts for women valued at about $50.

For more information, visit the website

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Coats for Folks offers good quality clean coats, boots, hats and lots more. Donations and volunteers are needed. (l-r) Volunteers Pat Brownfield, Thelma Neale, Myf Plecas. Photo: Marina Sacht

www.ShoeBoxProject.com.

How you can help: Make up a box with your friends or at work, and drop it off to Alana Newton at the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce.

Extreme Weather Shelter Thanks to the initiatives of the LRCA Homeless committee, a shelter is now available during cold weather. “The committee started after losing our friend Dave Alton to exposure,” says Tim Solloway.

The shelter first opened on November 12 for six nights. It is located at Bethel’s tabernacle lower level, and if space is not available will there, it will open at St. John’s Anglican Church as needed.

“All the churches in Ladysmith have been wonderful and have representatives on our committee. Our client base is growing as word gets out,” says Sol-

loway. The shelter provides changes of clothes, warm blankets with mats, a hot meal and breakfast. For now the shelter has what it needs thanks to Doug Routley’s help in getting B.C. Housing funds as well as support from Warmland in Duncan (an amazing place for the homeless and suffering).

How you can help: Volunteer or donate to Ladysmith’s Soup Kitchen and Coats for Folks — the shelter is good for now.

Haircuts for Hugs On December 8, from 1 pm to 3 pm, Chopstix and High Street Hair with Street Thug Barbers will be offering free haircuts to those in need.

How you can help: Spread the word and spread the cheer.

Imagine if Christmas was just the beginning? Happy year, indeed!

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RDN Area A (Cedar, Cassidy, S. Wellington) How Much Do You Pay for Access to Recreational Facilities?

The next four months will be a very busy time for elected officials and senior staff within local government. They will attempt to define the issues facing their area of responsibility, prioritize those issues and determine the cost of actions needed to implement the priorities.

For most local governments, the priorities and funding to support the activities will be embodied in both a strategic plan, covering the four-year period of 2016–2019, and a five-year budget, covering 2016–2020. Both of these activities are currently under discussion within the Regional District of Nanaimo,

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with finalization of the budget submission to the provincial government due by the end of March 2016. To obtain further details on input opportunities, residents should monitor the RDN’s website, www.rdn.bc.ca/, or contact the Finance & Accounting Department at 250-3904111.

Within the approximately $1.6 million budget assigned to the area, I thought that residents of Electoral Area A should have background information on some of the larger cost items. In 2015, of 26 separate cost areas, five areas account for 81% of the total costs. In order of cost from highest to lowest, the five areas were: 1. Access to recreational facilities: $401,800

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2. The Vancouver Island Regional Library: $311,600 3. EA “A” Community Planning: $222,700 4. Community Parks: $163,800 5. Transit: $119,900 The topic for this issue is the cost of providing recreation services or, more correctly, the cost of providing access for residents of EA “A” to recreation facilities that are primarily situated within the City of Nanaimo.

A recent staff report details the background information. This report indicates that District 68, the City of Nanaimo, the District of Lantzville and EA “A”, EA “B” (Gabriola) and EA “C” (Extension, Pleasant Valley) share in the annual operating costs of the City’s four major recreation centres (that is, ice arenas and swimming pools), eleven City and two EA sports fields. For more than 15 years under Bylaw No. 1050.04 (Southern Community Recreation Local Service Area), a survey of usage of sports fields and recreation facilities, conducted once every five years, has established funding from each of the partners. The survey methodology is obtained through a review of the City of Nanaimo’s registration data; obtaining information on residence of patrons exiting the facilities and collecting information on residency from sport groups that rent space at these facilities.

When I first encountered this after being elected in 2012, I was very vocal about the obvious flaws in methodology.

Fortunately, I was joined in the criticism by those representing the other two EAs and the District of Lantzville. This year has been the first opportunity to influence the methodology. Paying our fair share of the costs is not an issue — rather, how the fair share is arrived at is the issue.

Perhaps the most obvious flaw is evident by the significant fluctuations in calculated usage between each 5-year survey period. This can be attributed to the fact that the survey only collects data for a

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few days in January and several days in the mid-May to early-June period of the survey year. If it is conducted on a day where there is unusual usage by attendees from one of the partner areas, then, when extrapolated to an annual basis, the annual usage and share of allocated costs can be distorted.

I expect that when the next survey is conducted in 2020, the usage figures will be significantly more accurate, now that the RDN and the City of Nanaimo are engaged in replacing their recreational software to one that will capture much more detailed information on usage. The 2015 cost represented more than 25% of the total costs assigned to EA “A”.

With the 2011 census indicating an EA “A” population of 7,285, the 2015 costs amounted to approximately $55 per resident. I’m looking for a reduction in these costs for the period 2016 through 2020. alecmcpherson@shaw.ca

CVRD Area H (North Oyster, Diamond) Follow Up on Curbside Collection Service — Community Meeting, October 15, 2015: Thank you to everyone who attended the community meeting on curbside pickup. The main purpose of the meeting was to provide full and accurate information about potential changes to the curbside collection service in Area H, and to find out if this community desires changes to the current service. I was very pleased with the number of attendees, as it allowed for a good discussion of the issues and options.

The Cowichan Valley Regional District staff provided a report on the results of a survey sheet that was previously attached to the blue bins. Approximately 398 surveys were returned, the results were as follows: • 41% voted no change in service.

• 25% voted the full-service option which included organics, garbage and recycling pick-up.

• 34% voted a partial-service of garbage and recycling service.

There was also an opportunity for those present to fill out the survey and submit it during the meeting.

A question and answer period followed the report. When the attendees were satisfied that they had enough information

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on the subject, they could vote on five simple “yes” or “no” questions about potential service changes using electronic clickers. The results of the “clicker” survey are as follows: • To additional curbside service, 4 said “yes” and 15 said “no.”

• To organics pick-up, 4 said “yes” and 14 said “no.”

• To garbage pick-up, 4 said “yes” and 15 said “no.”

• To glass pick-up, 6 said “yes” and 13 said “no.”

• To film plastic pick-up, 5 said “yes” and 14 said “no.”

Meetings for the other electoral areas are underway, and will be completed early in the New Year. When the public consultation has been completed for the remaining areas, a report will be prepared for the Board’s consideration.

I will keep you informed as this process progresses.

Follow Up on Public Hearing on the Area H Zoning Bylaw Amendment Pertaining to Local Government Section 946 — October 21, 2015: I want to thank all those who attended this hearing. Presenters provided information to the public on the proposed changes and the impact of these changes to the property owner. The first part of the meeting included a question and answer session. The proposed change will update the Area H regulations to be consistent with current regulations.

The second part was a formal session where the panel listened to the public comments. Although this hearing was not required by the Province, I felt that it was important to notify the public of the change, give them a chance to learn about the changes and ensure that they clearly understand the implications in the change. A report will be prepared for the Board’s consideration and potentially, the adoption of the amended Bylaw.

North Oyster Fire & Rescue Department: The Cowichan Valley Regional District has identified the need for a fire rescue service coordinator. The position is responsible for optimizing fire rescue services, fire prevention, education, operating guidelines, procedures, training, project management, and the procurement of goods and services in support of fire rescue operations and services.

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In order to fill the position, the CVRD followed standard hiring practices and advertised the position in the standard manner. The hiring committee considered the applications, short-listed the applicants, conducted interviews with candidates and successfully hired a qualified individual.

I am pleased to announce that Fire Chief Jason de Jong has been hired as the CVRD Fire Rescue Service Coordinator and started work on November 2, 2015. In order to take on this new position, Jason tendered his resignation from our local fire department.

Jason has been with our fire department for the last 23 years, and has shown the leadership this new position requires. Congratulations to Jason, and thank you for your many years of community service. I wish you every success in your new endeavors. Rest assured, the department is in good hands. North Oyster Deputy Chief, Jason Layman will fill the position of fire chief during this period of transition and minor reorganization.

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CVRD Area G (Saltair) DELAYS IN WATER UPGRADE This year’s Saltair water upgrade, near the Davis Lagoon Bridge, will be further delayed. Earlier in the summer, the construction company working on the new waterline uncovered a First Nations shell midden during their ditch digging. They reported it to the provincial government to implement the necessary archeological study. Well, the provincial government misplaced the application, and the archeologists have not yet done the study. So the final paving of the Chemainus Road will be waiting until they are finished.

And as a result, the work will not be completed until at least the new year. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Unfortunately, this means more costs to the Saltair Water Budget because the midden was not identified in the original contract.

WWW.SUNNYSALTAIR.CA Our community website, www.sunnysaltiair.ca, is being updated by volunteers, Grace Predy and Jackie Rieck.

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We will also have volunteer contributors for different topics on the website.

They are trying to make it more current, relevant and useful. This update is part of the communication plan for Saltair to keep interested residents up to speed on happenings in the community. The current topics that may be on the website include: • The circle cycling route that could go through Saltair • The Saltair Community Centre development by the Saltair Society • The Saltair water upgrade progress • The Saltair Parks Commission notes • The small lot commercial development by John Morris, near Byron’s Food Market There will also be links to Saltair businesses and the CVRD services as well as Saltair Ratepayers news. The website will also include a list of emergency numbers.

HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION AT CENTENNIAL PARK Centennial Park was once again the host for the annual Halloween celebra-

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tion. The crowd of about 200, dressed for the occasion, included many long time residents as well as a pleasing amount of new comers enjoying the event. Approximately 50 children entered the costume parade, winning prizes and vying for the Grand prize: 49th Parallel Grocery’s donation of free ice cream for a year. Everyone enjoyed hot dogs, coffee and hot chocolate throughout the evening. The event was a big success.

A big thanks to the crew that organized and safely fed the pallet fire for all to enjoy. Also, a big thanks to the fireworks crew that put on a fireworks display worthy of our small community.

Of special note, kudos to the people of Saltair, as the next morning’s clean up only consisted of picking up two styrofoam cups — an amazing way to look after our community.

A big thank you to our sponsors of this event: 49th Parallel Grocery, Great Canadian Dollar Store and Dairy Queen.

Special thanks to the organizers of this event who help every year: The Key, Evans, Irvings, Roe, Fotheringham, Ahola, Rutti, Milne, Wright, Poole, Pasareno and Knelson families.

KEITH CHRISTIE DEVELOPMENT The property just south of John Morris’s new small lot commercial development and the Byron’s Food Market, on the west side of Chemainus Road, has been rezoned into three parts. The front part by Chemainus Road will continue to be commercial, the middle part will be zoned for housing, and the back part, spanning Stocking Creek, will be parkland. This development will officially add 3.5 acres of parkland to Stocking Creek Park.

Residents have been using a trail through this land for many years, but it was not legally part of Stocking Creek Park. Keith Christie has donated this parkland through the development process to the CVRD. The Saltair Parks Commission can now begin planning a better trail to Stocking Creek Falls now that all of the trail land is within Stocking Creek Park. To keep adding to the park over the next decades is in the community plan. If and when Mr. Christie wants to do actual development on the front two parts, he will have to apply for a development permit.

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Is Council about to make a huge mistake?

At the November 2 meeting of Ladysmith Town Council, Council passed the third reading of a bylaw that will allow for the creation of a 15-unit car lot next to the Cenotaph. This bylaw will permit motor vehicle sale and rental.

The applicant, Bill MacMunn of GP Vehicle Sales provided an overview of the proposed site development and business operation. In response to questions from members of Council, he assured that stock will be mainly pre-owned vehicles, with a focus on selling greenpowered, electric and hybrid vehicles.

Signage will be in keeping with the heri-

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tage nature of the Browsorium building, which they said would be restored as part of their development plans. Phillip Oldridge, one of the partners in GP Vehicle Sales, informed Council that he is also President and Chief Executive Officer of Green Power Motor Bus Company, and is committed to facilitating public access to green-powered vehicles. He stated that the business model for the company does not involve selling older used vehicles that do not support the company’s green power focus.

Cenotaph beside the former Buckingham Browsorium building, proposed site for a “green” focus car lot. Photo: Rob Johnson

Those in attendance raised questions and concerns, from traffic to security, and the idea of a “used car lot” next to the Cenotaph.

Councilor Rob Hutchins suggested that 50 per cent had to be “green.” This was thought to be unrealistic, especially in the beginning. As a result staff and the proponent negotiated a 20 per cent level of electric and/or hybrid vehicles that GP

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Vehicle Sales would have to maintain for sale or lease. This begs the question, can the Town set controls on what products a retailer must sell? For example, is this not like telling a fashion shoe store that 25 per cent of their stock has to be men’s work boots?

What happens, if after the final reading is passed, granting permission to establish the car lot on the site, the owners find the cost of restoring the Browsorium building much higher than estimated?

Can the Town force GP Vehicles Sales to complete any restoration regardless of budget and cost?

We should consider better uses for this site, such as those that will also showcase the charm and beauty of Ladysmith.

How about a beautiful new City Hall, sitting proudly on the crest of the hill next to the place where we honour our veterans and war heroes?

I hope that the members of Council will look at this issue closely and how it will affect the Town before they cast their final vote on the proposal.

Don’t get me wrong. In principle, I think GP Vehicles Sales’ proposal is good. It’s just not the right location.

But a great place for a new City Hall. I am sure we can find another location that gives this progressive and environmentally-friendly company the opportunity to develop. With support from the Town, we can work towards making Ladysmith the “Electric Car Capital of the Island” if not all of B.C. At least that’s as I see it!

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Fire Cider The cold and flu season is here. With this in mind, I will pass along an old herbal formula that is inexpensive, easy to make, potent and effective. Dr. John Christopher’s gave me this recipe when I was his student. Dr. C believed strongly in the power of cayenne and made all his students take a teaspoon every morning.

It wasn’t the easiest habit to get in to, but we survived!

I have passed this recipe on for years

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and have found that people use it for just about everything: from sore throats to chills and flu, as a liniment, and, my personal favorite, as a salad dressing. Try this multi-faceted formula and you’ll benefit one way or another.

All of these ingredients are medicinal foods and not difficult to purchase, as you can see from the recipe below: 1/4 cup horseradish root grated 1/8 cup garlic chopped 1/2 cup onion chopped 1/4 cup ginger grated 1 tsp. cayenne apple cider vinegar In a sizable container, mix the first five ingredients together. Cover liberally with the apple cider vinegar, so that the ingredients are floating in it. Leave the container in a handy place for 14 days, shaking or stirring as often as you have a mind to.

Fire Cider is long lasting and very handy to have about the house. It is one of the few liniments that may be taken inter-

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nally, as in general liniments are classed as medicines for external use only.

Fire Cider may be used as: • A chest rub to break up congestion • A rub for the sinus area when plugged • A rub for on sore muscles and arthritic joints • A gargle • An internal medicine when taken by the teaspoon To take internally, add a teaspoon of the mixture to half a cup of boiling water. You might want to add a little sweetener, such as honey which happens to be soothing for a cold and sore throat.

Nothing is cheaper, easier or finer for breaking up congestion and easing the symptoms of a cold or flu. I would try just a little at first to see how strong you can take it. If you find one teaspoon too weak, just double it up.

Check out Kahlee’s two new books in the Standing People series visit thestandingpeople.com or symbionts@shaw.ca.

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Making nature gifts Getting rid of unwanted ‘stuff’ is referred to as many things - downsizing, decluttering, voluntary simplicity or minimization, but regardless of how it’s described for me there’s nothing more satisfying. My husband may disagree as he rummages through boxes headed for recycling or thrift stores to check there’s nothing we could possibly use! What amazes me the most is how this ‘stuff’ continues seeping out of corners and cupboards as if it mysteriously had a life of its own!

By now I’m so done with all the ‘stuff’ that during this holiday season I have set myself a goal to create gifts using

Edible fresh herb wreath (left) dried flower bouquet (right) make natural gifts.

mostly what I have grown and harvested myself - Zero-mile organic botanicals!

So throughout the year I’ve been gathering materials together with simple hand crafted gifts in mind. Now, while the rain beats on the window pane, I am pleasantly preoccupied crafting gifts that are either nourishing, relaxing or beauti-

ful, perhaps all three.

I started by making a relaxing herbal tea blend using dried leaves of mint and lemon verbena, calendula petals and dried rose buds, with just a hint of organic stevia to sweeten. While drinking this soothing tea you can even smell the delicate waft of perfume from the rose buds.

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Relaxing bath salts are easy to make by combining your choice of healing bath salts with lavender and rose petals and adding rose essential oil for aroma. The lavender bushes were extra aromatic this year, being Mediterranean plants that thrive in drought conditions, and there was plenty to make bath salts and lavender wands and to fill fragrant lavender pillows and sachets as well.

The dehydrator buzzed away all summer and fall as fresh fruit slices at the peak of ripeness and flavour were laid on sheets to dry. In some cases I dipped the fruit slices in freshly-squeezed lemon juice to stop them from browning; I find the lemon also enhances the flavour. I dried stacks of pears, apples, peaches (these three need lemon), figs and plums. As the fruit dries water evaporates and the flavour intensifies as nutrients are sealed in.

This concentration of ripe fruit phytonutrients makes dried fruit a nourishing snack and a much healthier way to get your sugar fix! Combining fruits makes a mixed fruit compote, which can be rehydrated by just covering with boiling water and leaving to soak. Adding a lemon slice or cinnamon stick enhances the syrup. I usually soak enough to last me for one week, because the longer it soaks the tastier the syrup. In winter I love eating this compote on top of a bowl of hot steaming oatmeal.

Drying flowers from the farm all summer was a dedication that paid off when it came time to making gifts of beautiful dried flower bouquets. At this dreary time of year I feel heartened seeing these flowers from summer blooming, even if they have been dried. A colourful dried flower posy in a sweet little glass bottle tied with a pretty bow can definitely say it with flowers!

My favourite creation is the 100% edible fresh herb wreath made using native honeysuckle into which sprays of culinary sage, bay leaves, rosemary and a bulb of garlic are tucked, with rings of dried hot peppers and tomatoes attached. Hanging one of these in your kitchen insures you always have these herbs handy when you need them.

Wishing you inspiration and gifts from nature in 2016.

Join Carolyn Herriot for a reading and book signing at Salamander Books, 535 First Avenue, Ladysmith on Friday December 18th from 6-8pm.

Carolyn is author of The Zero Mile Diet, A Year Round Guide to Growing Organic Food and The Zero Mile Diet Cookbook, Seasonal Recipes for Delicious Homegrown Food (Harbour Publishing) Available at your local bookstore.

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The Nature of Language “Knowledge is never to be wasted or despised.”

— Joseph Needham As a speaker of two languages from distinct linguistic groups, I’m aware that there are certain words, phrases, feelings and concepts that are difficult to translate if at all. As a naturalist, I also find it challenging to describe some ecological processes without using words that have negative connotations, such as disease and damage. Fungal “diseases,” for example, are essential for breaking down wood. If a tree is infected, the probability of cavity-nesting birds nesting in it is greater than if it was healthy. Fungal infections are also important for nutrient cycling and soil development. Similarly, damage from wind or snow to trees results in areas where fungal and bacterial infections can gain entrance. From an ecological perspective, we know this is necessary for life, but our language can mask critical information. In other cases, our language illuminates critical information. The name “death camas” reveals

something that might be very important to know if you are thinking about eating this plant.

About a decade ago, I became aware of the studies on the connection between cultural diversity and ecological diversity in academic literature. In these studies, language is used as a proxy for measuring cultural diversity. They suggest that language distinguishes cultural groups and reflects the world view of that group as distinct from others.

Examining biodiversity hotspots (areas with great biological diversity under threat) and high biodiversity wilderness areas (areas with high biodiversity, but are less threatened than hotspots), researchers have found that these areas are also rich in languages (and cultures).

According to Gorenflo et al. (2012), the biodiversity hotspots have a habitat loss

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of 70% or more and cover only 2.3% of the Earth’s surface, but have more than half of the world’s vascular plants and 43% of the world’s terrestrial vertebrates. These areas also have about half of all languages (3202 languages) spoken on Earth (Gorenflo et al. 2012).

The biodiversity wilderness areas, which cover 6.1% of the Earth and contain 17% of the vascular plants and 6% of the vertebrate animals, have an additional 1622 languages (Gorenflo et al. 2012).

What are you to make of all these numbers? For one thing, these results suggest that the same conditions that influence biological diversity also influence cultural diversity. They also illustrate that people are an important part of ecosystems. Our ways of thinking and relating to the world around us influences biodiversity. Different groups of people have preferences for different foods, gardening techniques, hunting methods, houses and taboos — all of which have an impact on the environment. These preferences are largely learned behaviours; they are a product of the culture. Local societies and indigenous cultures have deep and specific ways in which they understand the local environment. This knowledge is often embedded in stories, place names and names of local plants, animals or ecological phenomenon. A drastic example was the Asian tsunami in December 2004. The traditional oral histories in Sri Lanka passed on the Great Horned Owl chick Photo: Jay Rastogi

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knowledge that receding ocean waters can indicate a tsunami, but this was not a teaching of today’s dominant culture.

In Hul’q’umi’num’ and other Coast Salish languages, cutthroat trout and steelhead trout are classified as salmon.

Until the 1980s, western science placed them in different groups (more specifically, genera), but modern genetic scientists have now confirmed this classification. While traditional knowledge may not have been scientifically acquired or recorded, it is complex and has been effective over very long periods of time in many places.

This is not to say that western science is not useful or that traditional knowledge trumps scientific knowledge. Each knowledge system or language has a unique way of seeing the world, and each in their own way influences our thinking and behavior. Scientific and traditional knowledge systems both enforce the understanding that nature is necessary for human communities to thrive.

Jay Rastogi is a naturalist, horticulturist and educator living in Yellow Point.

Reach him at ecoforestry@gmail.com

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Cat litter, the latest developments To make ends meet as a senior, I’m always trying to come up with ideas to earn a little extra money, and this latest is a doozie. In fact, don’t even waste your time reading about it, invest now, stuff an envelope with cash and send it to Humdinger Enterprises, c/o Delbert’s accountant, Lester T. Maltberry of Maltberry and Associates (those being his dog and the scantily clad Zelda, who works afternoons at Laps R Us, Lester T’s satellite office).

I know, I know, my last idea, the spinach ice cream machine didn’t work out, but this one’s going to the moon, baby.

I’m sure we can all agree that the way to create wealth is to turn a common, base material into gold, or something we can get a lot of money for when we cash in our beer bottles. And what could be more common than kitty litter?

Kitty litter remains a mystery on several fronts. For one thing, how did we get ourselves into this position in the first place?

Dogs go outside, so too does your husband (you don’t actually believe that rhodo died of natural causes do you?), and bears have been crapping in the woods forever. Yet Fluffy, who can dig like a backhoe when he wants, gets to go in kit-

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ty litter, which is then tracked all over the carpet in a show of appreciation? I, and other investors just like me, don’t get it.

Next problem: why does it weigh so much? A cup outweighs its competitor, a roll of toilet paper, by about 40lbs. And that’s before it lumps up. Sprinkle a little cat urine in and it becomes heavier than gold (not that you should be buying any for your anniversary).

Even placing a small amount of this material in your garbage can will make a forklift a necessity. If by utilizing mechanical advantage, you manage to get your can to the curb, rest assured a lumbar-challenged city worker will return later that evening, gunning either for you or your cat. For years now the SPCA has been suppressing that 98% of the shootouts between civic workers and citizens involve cat owners.

But if you can’t place it in the garbage, what do you do with it? You’re not going to put it on your garden. Not only is it the wrong colour, but it won’t break down into soil because no self-respecting worm will go near it. This leaves taking it to work in your lunchbox and when no one is looking, putting it in the dumpster or, if your boss has pissed you off recently, into the suggestion box along with my spinach ice cream idea. If you get caught, phone Maltberry; if he’s not in, check with Zelda.

Of course you could always dig a hole in the yard and bury it, but that would imply your cat has trained you, rather than the other way around. At first I thought of alternate uses for the stuff, like using it as ballast for sailboat keels instead of lead.

Now that’s a trick keel. Another idea involved keeping sealed bags in playgrounds, near the teeter totters, should a disparity in playmate weight become an

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issue, like say if your nephew’s kid Bonerack gets paired with Big Sheila.

But that’s just small stuff. To quote Peter Drucker, the king of management consultants, “Economic results are only earned through leadership.” The rewards are for the innovator; that’s why we’ll be replacing existing cat litter with plain old topsoil. Not only is it a lot lighter, but also once your cat has infused it with goodness, it can be used on the garden.

No more straining the back from hauling it to the curb. Bonus, or what?

To market our new product, rather than use conservative, discreet packaging, we’ll go for eye catching. Emblazoned on the box will be “37% more absorbent, 52% lighter.” And the zinger, “10,000 times easier to dispose.” Sure, L. Maltberry and I have pulled these numbers out of thin air over a refreshing beverage, but what’s a little white lie?

If white’s not your colour, the same lie comes in Sahara Tan and Black Forest Hazelnut. What the heck, if leading them to a better product makes people feel better or lightens the load, where’s the harm? At least that’s what they told us at the Volkswagen dealership. “A German placebo,” they called it.

But it won’t all be smooth sailing; resistance is expected because nothing is subject to the whims of fashion more than manure. Once a year, self-fancied manure specialists (excrementologists) sit down and pull “the excrement of the year” out of a hat, which is why I never volunteer my Stetson. Last year’s big winner was llama poop. The rule of thumb is: Whatever manure you have, or is easy to get, is the wrong stuff. If you have cow manure, llama is king poop. If you have llama, then something out of the backside of a West African, bi-polar woodchuck (female if you can get it).

As far as actual efficacy is concerned, it’s all really a load of crap, because it makes little difference to your garden whose backside the manure comes out of. Plants simply aren’t that differentiating. The average zucchini couldn’t tell you what day of the week it is, let alone the difference between llama and rabbit pellets. Even older more experienced rutabagas are easily tricked.

We’ll be countering resistance by repeating our message over and over again, like the guy on those Lincoln ads who talks like his frontal lobotomy wasn’t as successful

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as the family hoped. For a name I was thinking our new kitty litter could be called, CAT’S ASS, because then our motto can be, “It’s the cat’s ass.” How could you not go with a winner like that?

As far as the picture on the box is concerned, it doesn’t have to be butt specific. There’s no need to have Fluffy, tail raised, blinking at you. I was thinking more along the lines of J. Lo in that two-sizes-too-small Cat Woman suit they used on Batman.

Maybe that’s cheating, but as our friends at Volkswagen say, “It isn’t cheating until you get caught.” (If you don’t feel like investing in kitty litter, you might consider a bottle of Paul Mas Grenache Noir, $11.29 in the French section.)

Delbert Horrocks is a co-proprietor at Mahle House Restaurant.

Follow him at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com

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Are you game?

When was the last time you got a little “wild”? With a resurgence of interest in hunting, primarily as an interest in healthy eating, the outdoors and respect for wildlife, more people are asking themselves that these days. In British Columbia, 10,000 new hunters registered just this year alone to the 115,000 resident BC hunters. About a third of these licences are held by women.

Eating wild game has benefits. It is much leaner than domesticated animals — about one third less calories and less cholesterol plus its higher in minerals and nutrients.

Animals in the wild are more active, eat natural foods and have not been fed antibiotics or medications or a prescribed diet.

“At least you know what you are eating,” says Dave Judson president of the Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club. “It’s as organic as you can get.”

Dave learned hunting from his father and grandfather at a time when it was common to find venison in local freezers

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along with rabbit, elk and game birds.

Today he shares his knowledge with his own children and members of the community.

Dave teaches the Conservation Outdoor Recreation Education (CORE) program, a requirement to obtain a BC resident hunting license. He also teaches the Canadian Firearms Safety Course and the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course developed to educate individuals on the safe handling and storage of both non-restricted and restricted firearms.

Last year, during one of his courses, he asked the group why they wanted to get their hunting licence. Their response was they wanted to eat more organic and natural foods, following the 100 Mile Diet.

“His friends didn’t understand and were mad at him for wanting to hunt because to them food came from a store,” Dave stated about one of his students.

“Non-hunters often don’t realize the importance hunters pay to proper education, and etiquette. They don’t realize the huge respect that hunters, anglers and recreational users have for the land. “ And that’s not just idle talk. Members of the Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club have picked up over 100,000 tonnes of garbage in the last 10 years of their annual Garbage Clean Up Days.

The club that dates back to the 1940s has made a huge difference to the community. One of their biggest projects was the Stocking Creek clean up. The Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club and volunteers physically removed 75,000 pounds of debris in order to open up the waterway for salmon spawning after a landslide.

Currently volunteers are working at the Bush Creek Hatchery, a volunteerrun salmon enhancement program. The

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Lloyd Stcyr and Dave Judson with venison sausage. Photo: Cindy Damphousse

purpose is to rebuild chum and coho stocks in local creeks as well as improve salmon habitat.

One of the biggest challenges is access. “There is so much private land where you can’t go, so for us we will do anything we can do to help and maintain the land,” Dave says.

“It’s like being a steward of the land and its wildlife. Conservation offices value hunters’ input, especially when you have 100 members who put in 4000 hours of field time in the back country.

“It’s not that we enjoy the killing. It’s about harvesting and the health benefits of this wild game, so we do everything possible to get as close to an animal. We show it respect. We hunt under proper conditions in order to ensure a quick humane kill. And lots get away.”

Dave Judson and Lloyd Stcyr share their sausage recipe on youtube.com/ user/take5newstv.

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“O’er hill and dale / Telling their tale / Joyf’ly they ring / While people sing...” — Carol of the Bells

This Year’s Tomorrow Thinking back I do recall a Merry Christmas: cards and greetings, old friends and new, gifties under the tree, knick-knacks and glimmerings hung from windows and walls, and icicled shelves.

The smells, so rich and full, of trailing spices and delicacies filled the air, as groaning boards to kitchen counters were laden of cakes, chocolates and indulgences so satisfying as to wrest longlost childhood to mind.

I hear the sound of crackling songs of hearths and choirs, sweet and lyrical, blessed and beholden, longings of the mistletoe of love, reachings of Santa Claus’ north, and the holy promise of home for Christmas.

I remember the easy pace and timeless moments as December’s first day harkens the angels pluck of heartstrings — to dance slowly through the days of youth. T’is the season of heady visions, sugar plum faeries and endless snowflakes of winter’s wild glory.

And somewhere, such joys and celebrants find New Year’s Eve, beckoning.

The time upon which resolutions gather the wonder and good, immensity and beauty of the Earth and universe that surrounds and is bestowed to us, to hold and rejoice, and to pass along for another.

T’is the season and a New Year’s beginnings. May peace and happiness be with you and yours.

Laurie Gourlay and Jackie Moad stand amazed, under skies and stars, and new years worked alongside civil society, resolute that local solutions to global challenges are to be found, everywhere!

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RETIRED LPN AND REHAB ASSISTANT looking for private in home nursing care. I also have extensive hospice experience. Asking $25 per hour. Please call Katie 250-594-3090.

FOR SALE 4 WINTER TIRES on rims size P225/65R-17.

Snows with 17” black steel rims. Fits RAV4, CRV, Outlander, Jeep Liberty, Murano, etc. Asking $550 OBO. Call 250-245-8076.

TWIN BED top quality mattress and box spring with frame and black handrail. All like new. Asking $150.

Call 250-924-1210.

LOVE SEAT in good condition. Asking $150 OBO. Call 250-245-5440.

ITEMS FOR SALE. Futon bed $50. Knitting machine $20. Clothes rack $15. Prices listed or OBO. Call 250-722-0263 CERAMICS finished or ready to paint and greenware available. Call for prices 250-722-0263.

Chemainus. Best prices on the Island. Follow us on facebook/etcinchemainus. Call 250-324-2227.

CONCRETE RESULTS. Contracting, full-service forming and finishing, walls, walks, patios, drives.

35 years experience. Call Gord 250-753-4024.

HANDYMAN AVAILABLE for odd jobs, painting, staining and power washing. Call Blair 250-2455621.

MID-ISLAND HOME SUPPORT since 2009.

Personal assistance and house cleaning available.

Bondable, licensed, certified and insured for your safety and ours. For the best rates around, please call 250-924-2273 (CARE).

FOR RENT BEAUTIFUL 1 bdrm level entry suite w/carport and fireplace in Cedar by the Sea, 250-722-2669. $895 month, all utlilities included.

OFFICE SPACES Downtown Ladysmith, modern, reasonable rent or lease. Call 250-245-3395.

BUSINESS SPECIAL EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHY. Don’t trust just anyone! We have years of experience from weddings, family portraits to glamour and corporate clients. Free photo book included of your images. Email for quote and portfolio: marinasacht@yahoo.ca or call 250-245-9165.

EDUCATION LEARN HYPNOBIRTHING® and birth your baby comfortably, totally relaxed and firmly in control.

For more information, www.lovingbirthing.ca/wp or call 250-588-3595.

SENSE OF PLACE YOUTH PROJECT LTD. has limited registration for before and after school programs still available! North Oyster Community Centre (Lic#KRIS-9MPPYV). 7:30am to 5:30pm.

Mon. to Fri. Nature programming, arts/crafts, hiking, building, music, games etc. Full-/part-time and drop-in spots. Subsidy welcome. Email patti@ senseofplaceyp.com, www.senseofplaceyp.com, or call 250-667-1222 or 250-618-3396.

KEN’S MOBILE MARINE SERVICE. Over 25 years licensed Marine Mechanic, repairing and maintaining diesel, inboard, outboard, stern drives, electrical, etc. We come to you. Call Ken 250-210-0756.

MUSIC LESSONS. Qualified, experienced music teacher in Cedar area. Piano, organ, cello and theory. Private lessons tailored to your individual needs. Ages 5 to adult. Call 250-323-6695.

BARNACLE BILL’S CHARTERS. Fishing, prawning, crabbing and sightseeing. Call 250210-0787 or 250-245-4185.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

BEADS BEADS BEADS Etc! 9752 Willow St.,

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ISAGENIX DISTRIBUTOR. Get lean and healthy fast! Less than $5/meal. Our protein shakes are amazing! No gluten, wheat, barley or trans fat. www.taketimetoday.com. Call Suzanne Deveau 250-245-8407.

BOWEN TECHNIQUE is a gentle soft tissue remedial therapy that resets the body to heal itself. Useful for joint, back and neck pain, frozen shoulder, asthma, chronic fatigue and many other problems. Lilja Hardy FMBAC in practice since 1994. www.bowtech.com. For information and appointments, call 250-245-7738.

TAI CHI For mental and physical health. Beginner class starts February, Mondays, on-going class Wednesdays. Both classes 10am to noon, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 McMillan Rd. $20/mo. www.nanaimotaichi.org. Call Sara 250-245-1466.

HOME & YARD PAINT & SAVE OPTION. Do it yourself, with a little help from a pro. Together we can make your job more affordable and accomplish a great look.

Making the world a brighter place for over 25 years. For more information, please call Harvey 250-245-2174.

INTERIOR PAINTING. Refresh your walls... and your spirits! Careful, respectful work. Attention to detail. Help with colour choice. No job too small.

Reasonable rates. Call Kari 250-245-2751.

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

ISLAND KING RENOS LTD. Kitchen-BathTile-Backslash-Countertops-Flooring-DrywallPaint-Siding-Fences-Decks INTERIOR and EXTERIOR. Quote by JOB not by the HOUR. www.islandkingrenos.com. Call 250-924-4924.

QUALITY RENOVATIONS Big or small. 25 yrs exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate call Lars 250-616-1800.

DARRELL ESSAR RENOVATIONS Over 30 years experience, certified journeyman carpenter. No job is too small, from fences, decks, tile work, hardwood flooring, painting, drywall etc. For free estimate call Darrell 250-714-3823.

TAKE 5 ads work! 250-245-7015.

BI-MONTHLY CLEANING for houses.

Experienced, reliable and attention to detail. $20 per hour. References available. Ladysmith and Chemainus. Call Jamie and Ingrid 250-246-4938.

AJ’S HOME CLEANING top to bottom service.

General, event, windows, we’ll even make your bed! Great for families, seniors, single parents, office cleaning, flexible service to fit your schedule.

Email aliciajohnson@telus.net or call Alicia 1-250709-1364.

SASSA’S HOME AND GARDEN CARE specializing in fall & spring cleaning inside & outside of your home or business. We use the tools & products that make the difference. Call 250-9244735 or 1-250-218-4735.

WOOD SHEDS, interior re/finishing, carpentry, painting, custom shelving/storage, railings, decks, benches. Enhance your enjoyment of the home and yard you love. Namaste Home Improvements.

Call 250-245-2751 (see display ad).

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IISLAND PRUNING. Professional tree care from large scale orchards to budding new trees. I can meet any pruning need. Shrubs, vines and ornamental. Large and small clean ups. Call Darcy Belcourt 250-245-1260.

THE HAPPY GARDENER. Weeding, digging, raking, cutting back, etc. Also do window washing and odd jobs. Cheerful and conscientious. Call David 250-618-9217.

PETS PROFESSIONAL PET CARE SERVICE. Leash ‘em & walk ‘em with Marlena. Insured and bonded.

Animal First Aid and CPR. Service for all pets including dog walking, home care visits, overnight with pet in your home and much more. As my love is yours! Call 250-246-3394.

TOO CRAZY BIRDY HOTEL. Travel with peace of mind, parrot boarding in a home setting, birds and only birds, budgies to macaws. Nightly rate $5, $10, $15, sml, md, lrg. Pre-booking visits welcome. www.toocrazybirdyhotel.com. Call Diana and Kip Slater 250-722-2201.

KITTY KORNERS CAT HOTEL. Purrsonalized quality kitty care. Daily health checks, experienced with special needs kitties. Reasonable rates.

Available 24/7. Check out our new home at 2740 Heather Way, Nanaimo. Take a virtual tour www. kittykorners.com. Call 250-740-KATS (5287).

SENIORS LYNN’S SENIORS CARE HOME. High quality personalized care. Warm caring environment.

Great food and snacks. Family events. Couples and pets welcomed. Ocean views, gardens. North of Ladysmith. www.lynnsseniorcare.com. Call 250-245-3391.

NEED HOUSESITTERS for nice country home on Hawaii Island for 6 months from April 15 tp Oct 15, prefer retired couple with independent income , for further info, email s.v.ceceline@gmail.com or leave a message at 250 245 9165.

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