AUGUST 2020

2

take5.ca

AUGUST 2020

TAKE 5

take5.ca

3

TAKE 5

take5.ca

Letters Indigenous leaders call for COVID-19 plan Indigenous leaders are calling on the federal government to urgently provide resources to protect their communities from what they fear would be a deadly and disastrous spread of COVID-19. Over 52,000 people have signed a petition created by a coalition of Indigenous leaders (change.org/Covid19Indigenous) — calling on Canada to urgently plan to “avert catastrophic consequences” in the event of outbreaks.

“First Nations, Inuit and Métis are among the most vulnerable Canadians and are the least equipped to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic,” says the petition. “COVID-19 has highlighted the inequities in Canadian society, disproportionately attacking vulnerable populations.” The petition says: “This [COVID-19] plan should be prepared for in advance of outbreaks, and implemented on request by any Indigenous community that needs to prepare for, avert and manage an outbreak. Please see change.org/Covid19Indigenous.

— Sarah Dixon Letters to the editor on community topics and concerns are welcomed. Please email editor@take5.ca or fax: 250-245-7099 or PO Box 59, Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A1.

5

TAKE 5

take5.ca

7

8

New bike trail in Ladysmith There will soon be a new bike riding opportunity in Ladysmith—the Brown Drive Park Family Friendly Bike Trail.

The Town of Ladysmith is developing a maintenance partnership agreement with the Ladysmith Chapter of the Cowichan Trail Stewardship Soci-

A new family friendly bike trail will be part of the upcoming upgrades behind Brown Drive Park in Ladysmith.

take5.ca

ety (CTSS). The project would bring in community partners, stakeholders and youth to redevelop the family friendly bike trail in the forested area behind Brown Drive Park.

Earlier in the year, the Town of Ladysmith removed unsanctioned bike trails and jumps, but residents complained noting the importance of this space for children and youth, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2018, the idea of the CTSS Ladysmith Chapter was founded by a group of local and dedicated trail enthusiasts.

CTSS Ladysmith has an active membership group that has completed work

AUGUST 2020

on Stocking Lake and Heart Lake trails in preparation for the Vancouver Island Race Series (previously “The Gutbuster”). The group also organizes the local Cyclocross Race in October, called “Crosstoberfest,” that continues to be a huge success.

A bike skills trail area within Brown Drive Park will be enjoyed by the community for years to come.

The little engine that could The Ladysmith and District Historical Society is working on a loan agreement with City of Port Alberni that could see the return of Plymouth #107 Gasoline Shunting engine to Ladysmith.

The LDHS believes the society members have the capacity to restore the Plymouth to a functioning condition.

Some years ago, when the Ladysmith Railway Society (LRS) lost the use of the Machine Shop and rail yard, a safe home was needed for the forestry rolling stock collection which featured engines and cars, which had operated at Comox Logging’s facility at Ladysmith Harbour. At that time the Western Vancouver Island Industrial Heritage Society (WVIIHS) offered to house and preserve a number of LRS artifacts, including the Plymouth Gas Locomotive No. 107 — a gasoline powered shunting locomotive. No. 107 was transferred to

10

take5.ca

AUGUST 2020

Restoration Shop today,” says Harry Blackstaff, LDHS member. “I ran it lots when working for these companies.”

Although unserviceable at this time, the LDHS is confident it can be rebuilt making the engine a valuable addition to the industrial artifacts collection as well as doubling as a heritage exhibit at the old Comox Logging & Rail Co. site.

Homeless Shelter to continue offering support

Plymouth #107 shunting engine working at Comox Logging & Rail Co. yard in Ladysmith. Photo: Ladysmith Archives

Port Alberni.

“The Plymouth 107 worked at the original Comox Logging and Railway Company railyard for Crown Forest and Crown Zellerbach during the late 1960s

to 1980s. These logging companies used Plymouth Locomotive Number 107 regularly to move railway cars into the big Machine Shop to be repaired and into the Car Shop which is the LMS Boat

By all accounts, Ladysmith’s temporary homeless shelter has made a positive impact on the community.

The enclosure located on Buller Street was set up by the Ladysmith Resources Centre Association in partnership with Cowichan Housing in response to the threat of COVID-19 to the homeless community and is funded by the Province.

LRCA Executive Director Marsh Stevens says the shelter will continue to serve the community. “We have an extension until September 30 on the Buller site. After that, it will be dependent on COVID-19 and money from founders.

It’s an uncertain time.”

12

take5.ca

AUGUST 2020

Stevens took over the helm from Christy Wood on June 9. He has been active with the LRCA as a board member in 2014 and as president from 2015 to 2019.

He gives credit to his staff at the homeless shelter. “They work very hard and have a good relationship with many of the regular clients who use the cold weather shelter that opens in November for the winter.”

As well as having community support, the shelter has become a hub of support, he says, with showers, meals and laundry.

With stabilization in place, the clients are asking for other assistance. No longer having to be in survival mode means that they “can relax and start focusing on other positive outcomes.”

“Housing is key,” says Stevens, who also heads up the LRCA Buller Street Affordable Housing Building Committee.

The groundbreaking at the Buller Street Affordable Housing project is expected to happen sometime in August. Watch for details.

Hot August Nights In order to help stimulate the local economy, the Town of Ladysmith, Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce, the Ladysmith Downtown Business Association and the Ladysmith Arts Council are presenting Hot August Nights every Thursday from 5 pm to 7 pm in downtown Ladysmith. Contact the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce for details (250-245-2112).

Ladysmith receives $3.3 million for Arts & Heritage Hub Projects The Town of Ladysmith is receiving $3,307,500 through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP)’s Rural and Northern Communities (RNC) Program to continue implementing the shared vision for the Arts & Heritage Hub. “The Arts & Heritage Hub is the public heart of our entire Waterfront Area Plan, and the receipt of this critical funding is another big step forward in our ongoing work to return our waterfront to a place for locals and visitors to explore history, culture and art in an integrated way,” says Mayor Aaron Stone.

A significant part of this federal and provincial investment will help build a 4,500-square-foot studio for local artists, including Stzˈuminus First Nation carvers, creating opportunities to showcase over 5,000 years of Indigenous cultural history in the area.

“Through our ongoing collaboration with Stzˈuminus First Nation, we are adding value and economic opportunities for

TAKE 5

take5.ca

Town of Ladysmith’s proposed Arts & Heritage Hub. Visit Town of Ladysmith website for full details.

our communities and today marks another milestone in that shared journey. We are thankful for the opportunity to create a space that not only showcases our industrial heritage and flourishing arts community, but is an opportunity to embrace and bring Stzˈuminus culture back to this side of the harbour as we build cultural connections so important to reconciliation.”

Coast Salish craftsmanship will feature prominently as well in the architectural design of the new studio space, which will front onto Oyster Bay Drive, surrounded by open spaces allowing for social interaction and a diversity of activities.

Also a result of the funding, the Town will construct an above-grade boardwalk running the full length of the Hub, connecting the Machine Shop with the studios and serving as an entry point as you arrive and start to explore.

Additionally, the Town will make some renovations and upgrades to the existing roundhouse and car shop buildings in order to preserve these heritage assets that are important representations of Ladysmith’s industrial past.

Future phases, subject to the receipt of additional funding sources, emphasize the creation of additional cultural public amenities such as a community meeting place, industrial arts building and café/gift shop, as well as improvements to existing historic buildings.

A key strategic priority of Ladysmith Council and focus for the Town is continuing with the implementation of the Waterfront Area Plan. The Town continues to make progress on significant structural, code and seismic upgrades to the Machine Shop that have been underway since last year.

13

14

take5.ca

AUGUST 2020

Proposed policy increases Dedication fee The Town of Ladysmith is considering revising their Tree, Bench and Amenity Dedication Policy to allow for a considerable price hike.

The new policy would increase the Memorial Park bench fee to $3,950 and add a “program renewal fee” of $1,050 from the previous policy of $3,200, with no renewal fees. In comparison, Port Aberni’s bench dedication fee is $2,500, with no renewal fee.

Not everyone is taking the fee increase sitting down and for Ladysmith resident Cathy Gilroy, it simply does not make sense.

In her letter presented at the Town of Ladysmith Committee of the Whole meeting on July 14, she called the proposal mean-spirited. “Over the past couple of decades, Ladysmith residents have donated Memorial Park benches to the Town of Ladysmith, presumably in perpetuity and in good faith. The Town of Ladysmith is opting to renege on a solemn contract; poor optics indeed.”

She argued that implementing an unexpected new program renewal fee erodes the trust between citizens and the Town for new amenities moving forward.

“The current proposed program renewal fee is $1,050; however, given this proposal, we would be well within our expectation to believe that this will increase over the next 10 years. Those who choose to enter into an agreement to pay the program renewal fee in 10 years time may be in for a nasty surprise.”

The Park Bench Dedication Program Guidelines Policy was introduced in June of 2000, and since then, there has been just over 90 park bench or tree dedications made. The Town’s dedica-

TAKE 5

tion program remains a popular opportunity for community members to recognize loved ones, while simultaneously contribute to the enhancement of the Town’s parks and open spaces. According to staff report, the proposed updates to the program will allow for increased opportunities for individuals to become involved, as well as the necessary means for the Town to sustain the program.

Better Preparation for Flooding Emergencies for Ladysmith and Cowichan Tribes New Democrat MLA Doug Routley says that Ladysmith and the Cowichan Tribes will be better prepared for flooding emergencies thanks to nearly $300,000 announced by the province today for two local flood risk assessment and mapping projects.

“It’s critically important that our communities prepare for and do everything we can to prevent flooding,” says Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “The Stocking Lake dam design study will make sure our infrastructure can withstand future flooding events, ensuring people’s homes and property are protected.”

Ladysmith is receiving $150,000 for their Stocking Lake dam design study, and Cowichan Tribes are receiving $149,900 for flood mitigation planning.

These investments are part of $3.46 million in provincial emergency preparedness funding for 24 local governments and First Nations communities to help with flood risk assessment, flood mapping and flood mitigation planning.

This funding is part of the nearly $69.5 million Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF) provided by the Province and administered by UBCM.

$875,000 Grant to create new childcare spaces the Town of Ladysmith is collaborating with the Boys and Girls Club of Central Vancouver Island (BGCCVI) to create new childcare spaces after receiving an $875,000 grant from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM). The provincial funding provides direct support for local young families by creating twelve infant/toddler spaces in our community.

“Parents shouldn’t have to worry about finding affordable and local child-

take5.ca

care options and these new spaces, in addition to those recently announced

by Nanaimo-Ladysmith Public Schools, help to directly address a critical shortage facing our community,” says Mayor Aaron Stone. “This investment provides long-term solutions by improving access to care while at the same time making the necessary enhancements to the existing facility.”

The new childcare spaces are being created at the BGCCVI’s Ladysmith location at 220 High Street. The grant program requires the municipality own the building where the spaces are being created and enter into a 15-year commitment with the province to deliver child care to the community.

In the future, the Town will complete an 800-square-foot addition to current building and install a new playground to accommodate the increased level of service. “BGCCVI identified growth as part of our long-term strategic priorities and the expansion of the childcare spaces in Ladysmith is helping us to achieve that goal while also providing quality and affordable childcare,” says Karen Love, Executive Director of BGCCVI.

15

16

take5.ca

AUGUST 2020

Ladysmith Little League Hardball Team, 1954. Can you help identify the players? Please contact the Ladysmith & District Historical Society if you can help. 250-245-0100 or email info@ ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca

Virtual Walk for four charities Debby Baker, Madam Vice President of the Ladysmith Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary #2101, is embarking on a virtual walk from Ladysmith to The Dalles, Oregon. The purpose of the 671-kilometre virtual walk is to raise funds and awareness for Parkinson’s disease, Muscular Dystrophy, Alzheimer’s and the Golden Eagle fund, of which Baker is the Pacific Northwest Regional Conference charity chair. The Pacific Northwest Regional Conference is comprised of all auxiliaries located in Alaska, Washington, Oregon and British Columbia.

The end of the virtual walk is scheduled to coincide with the start of the Pacific Northwest Regional Conference. During the virtual walk, all donations and pledges received will be 100 per cent donated to the four named charities.

According to Baker, “In these uncertain times, fundraising can be difficult, however; disease knows no bounds; people are diagnosed every day and the need for support continues.” The Fraternal Order of Eagles #2101 Facebook page will have daily updates.

New Agreement enables regional support for Fire Rescue and Emergency Response Fire departments across the region have entered into a mutual aid agreement that ensure all Cowichan communities have back-up emergency response assistance.

TAKE 5

take5.ca

The Cowichan Valley Fire Department Regional Mutual Aid Agreement creates a no-charge reciprocal system of emergency response and assistance available to all 17 local fire departments throughout the region and represents the first time a single, regional agreement has been established.

“This is an important agreement for residents of the CVRD, who can rest assured that emergency response resources are not limited to those in their own back yard,” says Aaron Stone, Chair of the CVRD. “Implementing a single, regional mutual aid agreement provides the ability of fire departments to legally and promptly access resources should they be needed and available,” says Jason deJong, Fire Rescue Services Coordinator for the CVRD. “In a region that continues to experience prolonged summer droughts and associated increases to wildfire risk, it’s important that we have a coordinated network of first responders to ensure the safety of all residents.”

Mutual aid means that when a local fire department is attending one fire or emergency, another fire department can respond to any other fire or emergency situation in that fire protection area if required.

New president for Search & Rescue The Ladysmith Ground Search and Rescue Society members (LSAR) would like to congratulate Faye Hjort as the newly elected President. Faye brings 10 years of Search and Rescue experience to the position, serving as the past Treasurer, and is currently a Ground SAR member, Team Leader and a Swift Water Technician.

Faye will be replacing Allen McDermid who will be retiring from LSAR.

Faye Hjort, new president of the Ladysmith Ground Search and Rescue Society, Photo submitted.

17

18

take5.ca

Grow your best tomatoes ever!

“Which is the best tomato to grow?”

There are so many “bests” in this world of diversity that I suggest making a choice based on what the tomatoes do best. Tomatoes are grown for a variety of uses: salads, snacking, slicing, soups, canning, sauces and paste. Choose a variety that meets your needs. A uniformly round juicy tomato, such as Moneymaker, is perfect for salads. A beefsteak variety, such as Costoluto Fiorentino, is perfect for a large slice in sandwiches, whereas a small cherry, like Gardener’s Delight, makes great fresh eating and snacking.

Amish Paste is meaty textured with few seeds, perfect for tomato sauce.

Finding the best variety for your garden microclimate requires some experimenting. Growth, flavour and yield depend on weather, soil fertility and the garden microclimate. It makes a world of difference to the flavour whether you grow tomatoes in gardens subject to cooling summer ocean breezes or in protected inland gardens. Extend the season of harvest by growing a variety of tomatoes, ranging in size and days, until ripening. By growing heritage open-pollinated rather than hybrid tomatoes, you can save the seeds of those

AUGUST 2020

with the best flavour and the highest yields in your garden.

TIP: New roots develop on all parts of the stem planted underground. These will provide the tomato with more nutrients. Strip all the leaves off the stem, except for the top truss of three or four leaves, when transplanting. Either dig a deep hole or lay the tomato plant diagonally in a shallow trench, but bury most of the stem, except for the upper truss of leaves, to encourage the formation of these roots.

Seventy-five per cent of all tomato cultivars are indeterminate. Indeterminate, or vining, tomatoes continue to grow and produce throughout the season, so give a longer season of harvest. Indeterminates are vining and need the support of sturdy trellises or strings. Determinate tomatoes are compact bushy plants, which make better choices for container growing, but have a shorter period of harvest because they only set fruit once and then stop producing. They may still need the support of a stake or a tomato cage. If you are growing mostly determinate varieties, I recommend growing some indeterminates too. Then you can eat fresh tomatoes all season long.

This year I am growing Black Cherry, Amish Paste, Moneymaker, San Marzano, Costoluto Fiorentino, Black Krim and Yellow Perfection. The plants are growing through holes in black landscape fabric to keep the heat locked into the soil. Good thing too, as we just went through June-uary! Each plant is tied onto a sturdy cedar stake that has been pounded into the ground using a fence post digger. Proper staking and tying as the tomatoes grow exposes leaves to sunlight and results in increased fruit production.

TAKE 5

take5.ca

An impressive tomato is a thing of beauty. Photo submitted.

I have been busy removing the suckers, as the plants are growing like weeds in this weather. Suckers are sprouts that grow between the main stem and the leaf axils. Removing suckers directs the plant’s energy from vine production to fruit production. Remove suckers from indeterminate, vining plants diligently, and train them to one (or two) main stems. Do not sucker determinate bushy plants because this will cut back on tomato production.

Don’t overwater; a deep soaking once a week is better than several light waterings. Fruit splitting and blossom end rot are caused by erratic watering. Fertilizing plants in July with liquid seaweed, with a high phosphorus content, boosts fruit production.

Tomato blight is the most serious disease of tomatoes, especially after long periods of wet weather, like we have just had. Blight can wipe out a whole crop in a matter of days if left unchecked. It is caused by the fungus Phytophthora infestans, and first appears as brown blotches on the leaves and then blackened stems on the plants. To control blight, remove all infected plant debris from the garden, do not compost it but put it in a black plastic bag and solarize it, then dig a deep hole and bury it. Once blight shows up in your garden, practise crop rotation diligently in future years to prevent reoccurrence. Covering your tomato patch with plastic helps protect the plants from the spread of blight.

Nothing beats the flavour of homegrown tomatoes bursting with sunshine. It’s worth taking a gamble with the weather or building a shelter over them just to experience the taste of that first ripe summer tomato.

Carolyn Herriot 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.

19

20

take5.ca

AUGUST 2020

TAKE 5

take5.ca

21

22

take5.ca

Outdoor Adventure With COVID-19 concerns, more people than ever are playing hometown tourist this summer. Whether they are residents or visitors from other communities in BC, one of the big draws here is our great outdoors.

From walking, jogging, hiking, biking, mountain biking, motor sporting, bird and wildlife watching, photography, forest bathing, food foraging, or hunting and fishing, there are many opportunities to enjoy our community’s natural bounty in a variety of ways.

But being prepared is the difference between an adventure or a disaster.

Even seasoned outdoor enthusiasts can run into trouble. “Always be prepared” is true for more than Boy Scouts. A good outdoor adventure includes leaving a trip plan, taking essentials, and knowing your environment and how to respond to it.

Outdoor Recreation Tips: 1. Dress in layers and wear appropriate footwear.

2. Don’t count on your cell phone. Signal may be limited or non-existent.

3. Avoid wildlife encounters and know how to react if you cross their path.

4. Know your limits to avoid injury and exhaustion.

For more safety tips, visit www.AdventureSmart.ca.

Missing child search starts rescue group

BY ALLEN MCDERMID In June 1963, a little girl named Cindy Wager was lost in the Holland Creek

Swiftwater training. Photo submitted.

area. A search was initiated by Ladysmith residents. Concern mounted as night fell.

The next morning, Chemainus resident Ivan Beggs and his dog, Rebel, found Cindy. She had spent the long night sheltered under a log in the “big rock” area.

Members of the Ladysmith Fish and Game Club, now known as the Ladysmith Sportsmen Club, realized that something had to be organized to handle such emergencies, and Ladysmith Search and Rescue was formed.

These early members were experienced hunters, loggers and fishermen who knew the surrounding area and used their experiences to locate lost people.

As the use of backroads and mountains became more desirable to recreationists, the demand for more involvement from local government to assist SAR groups

AUGUST 2020

increased, and eventually the provincial emergency program was created. Under today’s mandate, Emergency Management BC is responsible for facilitating provincial ground and inland water SAR capabilities through partnership with the Justice Institute of BC, the Ministry of the Attorney General, and RCMP or the police having area jurisdiction.

Now, fifty-seven years later, Ladysmith Search and Rescue Society (LSAR) continues to serve our community as a non-profit organisation, run by volunteer members. LSAR is represented by the British Columbia Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA).

Presently, LSAR has thirty-five volunteer members, with twenty-eight certified ground search and rescue personnel proficient in all aspects of their roles in search and rescue, first aid and packaging with transport endorsement, shore and inland water rescue, low angle rope rescue and human tracking, and as technology advances, skills in computer software, communications, mapping and using global positioning systems (GPS) are just a few of the training provided.

The LSAR volunteer members continue the proud tradition of its forefathers by continually training many hours to be able to provide the best response for those at their time of need. In 2019, LSAR members responded to thirtyone incidents. The combined volunteer hours for 2019, including training, incident response and community education, totaled 4,546.

Additionally, LSAR provides outdoor public awareness by providing the AdventureSmart programs to schools and community groups, such as the Girl Guides, Boy Scouts, and so on. The

TAKE 5

take5.ca

Some of the members of the Ladysmith Ground Search and Rescue. Photos sbmitted.

Hug-A-Tree program teaches youths what to do if they get lost in the back country and how to prevent them from getting lost.

They also manage Paddle Smart programs and trailhead info stations.

Here are some common myths they would like to debunk: Myth 1: You must wait 24 hours.

23

24

This one is the worst. If someone is missing in the back country, it is an emergency and you do not have to wait before reporting them missing. If you yourself are lost, you can call 911. If you are lost and cannot call 911, know that if you are reported missing by a friend or family member, we will start searching immediately.

Myth 2: We can find you using your phone. It is partially true that cell phones can reveal your “rough� location, but when you are in the back country it is much less accurate. Never rely on your mobile phone to get you out of trouble as the battery life and range of these devices are not reliable in the wilderness. Instead leave a trip plan with a friend. For a sample visit AdventureSmart (https:// www.adventuresmart.ca/tripplan/tripplan.php).

Myth 3: You must pay for rescue.

If you know you are lost, do not hesitate to call for rescue. It is free and calling early makes our job safer.

take5.ca

AUGUST 2020

Outdoor activities were popular even in the early days. Fishing and hunting were some of the pursuits as evidenced by this early photo of the Arkady Gun Club in 1910.

Photo: Ladysmith Archives

TAKE 5

take5.ca

Ladysmith Sportsmen's Club members volunteering at the Bush Creek Hatchery. Photo: Marina Sacht/TAKE 5

Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club The Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club was founded by a handful of men in 1944 with the intentions to promote conservation and educate the public about ethics of using the environment and its resources. Over the years the club gained numerous members interested in helping to endorse stewardship of the land as well as gain knowledge about sustaining natural resources.

Presently, the Ladysmith Sportsmen Club and various other organizations such as: British Columbia Wildlife Federation, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, various logging companies, and the Town of Ladysmith work together to encourage preservation and protection of our environment.

The Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club operates and maintains the Bush Creek Hatchery; from the hatchery they are able to obtain

25

A long history...Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club members at VanTine Dodgers Annual Banquet. Photo: Ladysmith Archives

eggs which are donated to schools for incubation projects and educational purposes. There is a biologist who works alongside the volunteers to provide education and guidance regarding the operation of the hatchery as well salmon enhancement projects. The hatchery is also the venue tor the “Learn to Fish” event that the club hosts every year. This provides an opportunity for families to learn how to properly bait a hook and catch a fish in the pond.

Right now due to Covid-19 the hatchery is closed to the public but come the fall they need help from the public to catch brood stock for the eggs, and look after them during the winter.

The club also hosts annual watershed area cleanups in Ladysmith and surrounding areas and continues to work on enhancing salmon population and their habitats.

“We could always use more hands,” says Dave Judson.

26

RDN Area A Cedar Are you farming your land? Or growing a garden? Do you try to keep your lawn looking good for as long as you can each summer? I have participated in several sessions with the Vancouver Island Region Adaptation Strategies Advisory Committee, a group that has been brought together to look at the effects of climate change on agriculture on Vancouver Island. Work in this group has been put toward the Vancouver Island Adaptation Strategies Plan, which was completed in July of this year. There is a plethora of information on climate (and weather) for the whole Island, both historic and looking into the future.

Development of the plan was overseen by an advisory committee that included representatives of Alberni Farmers Institute, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, BC Ministry of Agriculture, Capital Regional District, Comox Valley Farmers Institute, Comox Valley Regional District, Cowichan Agricultural Society, Cowichan Valley Regional District, Island Egg Producers, Island Milk Producers Association, Mid-Island Farmers Institute, Peninsula and Area Agricultural Commission, Regional District of Nanaimo, Salt Spring Island Agricultural Alliance, Strathcona Regional District and Wine Island Growers Association.

The made-for Vancouver Island plan sets out four priority impact areas in the region, which are: *warmer,drier summer conditions, *changing pests and beneficial insects, +increasing weather variability and shifting crop suitability, and *increased precipitation and extreme precipitation events.

Details about potential projects, including descriptions, final reports and resources developed during the committee sessions, will be posted on BC Agriculture & Food’s Climate Action Initiative website in the Regional Pro-

take5.ca

gramming area. Work is beginning on the implementation of some of the projects identified as high priority.

You can read about the Vancouver Island Adaptation Strategies (and see a copy of the completed plan) at bcagclimateaction.ca/regional/rap/vancouverisland/.

So, if you are a farmer, a gardener or just someone addicted to having the best lawn in the neighbourhood, the Vancouver Island Adaptation Strategies Plan will provide you with some interesting reading and a glimmer of a vision of the future in our part of the world. And it may help you decide when to plant, what to plant and when to go on holidays in the years ahead!

CVRD Area H North Oyster/Diamond North Oyster Community Centre: The CVRD board agreed with my recommendation that $30,820 of the Area H Community Works Funds be allocated to fund a portion of the cost of paving the lower parking lot at the North Oyster Community Centre. Operated by the North Oyster and Area Historical Society, the Centre is a key community gathering place, and the parking lot is used by many of the parents dropping off or picking up children from Ecole North Oyster Elementary located across Cedar Road.

The Society’s volunteers have been operating and maintaining the centre since 1993, and I believe in maintaining community assets and improving where able. The funding assistance for the parking lot is an acknowledgement of the value of this asset to the community.

Thanks to President Bob Handel, Secretary Barbara Waters and all of the board members for their service to the community.

North Oyster/Diamond Community Parks Advisory Commission Appoint-

AUGUST 2020

ments: The CVRD board approved my recommendation for the appointment of four members of the community to the Area H Community Parks Advisory Commission. The commission has been inactive since 2018, and while COVID-19 has limited the ability for commissions to meet, it may soon be possible. I believed that we had to be ready to move the commission forward when we get approval to meet again, and by appointing these community members, we are prepared.

One project will be a trail management plan for Yellow Point Park. The CVRD leases the property from the Province.

This lease will be coming up for renewal, and CVRD staff have begun the process of a trail management plan, which would be part of the renewal.

The plan will be recognizing and accommodating the needs of the various users of the park, including equestrians. Currently, two routes that previously were usable to horses are closed to equestrians due to concerns regarding the safety. I have discussed this with CVRD Parks staff, and the intention is to budget for improvements, which will allow the crossings to be horse friendly again.

Area H Community Parks and Trails Input: I am looking for input on what you like and dislike about the Area H Parks and Trails. Email me your comments on the following: 1. What you consider the #1 park/trail in Area H and why?

2. Which park/trail in Area H that you believe needs improvement and why?

Area H parks/trails include: Blue Heron Park, Christie Road Park, Elliots Beach Park, Michael Lake Trail (Linear Trail Corridor), Oriosi Park, Raise Road Beach Access, Raven Park, Trillium Park, Yellow Point Park More Volunteers Needed For the most part, I do not believe that

TAKE 5

take5.ca

Area H residents want to change things drastically, nor do we want to be over-regulated.

How do we protect and enhance the lifestyle we value and the community atmosphere that makes Area H what it is?

Get involved! I have beat this drum before and will continue to just like a child on a trip constantly asking, “Are we there yet?”

It is important to have an active Advisory Planning Commission (APC) and a Parks Advisory Commission. Both commissions have four appointed members, but it really needs to be more. Ideally commissions would have at least seven members, so we are only just over halfway there.

Does it take a lot of time? Historically, not. There are ebbs and flows to the topics of discussion, but generally meetings are more on an “as needed” basis.

For the APC, there is the upcoming Modernized Official Community Plan process that will be critical for setting the direction for the next twenty or more years, but without active community participation, there is a real danger that the document may not reflect what is needed by Area H. This is a document voted on by the Area H director, but also by the other CVRD directors and a strong APC assists the director in forming the proper OCP. For the Parks Commission, documents like trail management plans and annual parks budgets, determine what does and doesn’t happen with the Area H Community Parks. The input and ideas from the Parks Commission help form the plans for the future.

No specialized or technical knowledge required! The key to this is for you to bring your thoughts, knowledge, ideas and suggestions to meetings to discuss these critical parts of our community.

Enjoy the summer weather. You can contact me with any issues, concerns or comments that you may have.

Colin.Haime@cvrd.bc.ca 250-616-3986

CVRD Area G Saltair/Gulf Islands Summer is here. Lovely gardens to admire, and if you had a chance to grow a veggie garden this year, your efforts are being rewarded as you enjoy the fruits of your labour.

Saltair Centennial Park Revitalization community engagement process was postponed. Plans are being made to decide how best to move forward with the results from the CVRD

27

28

take5.ca

Centennial Park Revitalization survey done in 2019.

The Area G Saltair Community Parks budget includes Centennial Park, Diana, Princess of Wales Wilderness Park, Stocking Creek Park, multiple beach accesses, and connection trails. There are bridges, staircases, platforms, drainage and so on that all require replacement and maintenance.

The Saltair Area G Community Park budget “provides for the operation, maintenance, capital development and land acquisition of community parks and trails in Electoral Area G (Saltair). The expenditure categories include park operations, parks maintenance services contracts, capital projects, general park expenditures and parkland acquisition. The function is funded primarily through requisition” (with requisition meaning Saltair taxpayers’ taxation). The budget details are available via the CVRD website link at www.cvrd.bc.ca/DocumentCenter/View/9431/237?bidId=.

2021 CVRD Budgets CVRD staff are currently working on the budget for 2021, and these budgets will be reviewed by the CVRD Directors starting in September 2020. The 2021 Budget Calendar can be viewed at www.cvrd.bc.ca/DocumentCenter/View/81177/2021Budget-Calendar?bidId=.

Cowichan Valley Economic Recovery How are we doing with our “shop local”? As businesses are reopening, we have an opportunity to support these businesses operated by our families, friends and neighbours. WorkSafe BC COVID-19 and BC Health regulations have changed how these businesses interact with their customers. How many businesses and employees have been financially impacted by

AUGUST 2020

the closure of their business or workplace? How can we ensure these businesses continue to remain open? Following the BC Health regulations and the business procedures/requests, we can work towards financial stability for our local economy.

Cowichan strong! “We want to help the Cowichan Valley business community”. This centralized website is designed to share relevant information on the support and resources available in response to the COVID-19 crisis: cowichanstrong.ca/ Electoral Area directors continue to work towards moving along Electoral Area Land Use applications during these challenging times.

CVRD Recreation Centre Update The reopening of CVRD recreation centres — Cowichan Community Centre, Kerry Park Community Centre, Shawnigan Lake Community Centre and Cowichan Lake Recreation — are being guided by a number of agencies and documents, including WorkSafe BC, the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association’s Guideline for Restarting Operations (www. bcrpa.bc.ca/media/242766/bcrpa-restarting-guidelines-fi nal. pdf), ViaSport British Columbia’s Return to Sport Guidelines for BC (www.viasport.ca/sites/default/files/ReturntoSportGuidelines.pdf), Island Health and, of course, the BC Restart Plan and the CVRD’s COVID-19 Restoration of Programs and Services Plan.

Before you head off to a CVRD-operated facility, take the time to read the facility’s safety plan. Safety plans for each CVRD facility can be found at www.cvrd.bc.ca/3303/COVID19-Recreation.

The Saltair Community Centre is leased to the Saltair Community Society, a private society, and the society must provide a safety plan for the building and users of the building. CVRD staff have shared the CVRD Kerry Park Safety Plan template with the society to assist with the creation of their own safety plan for the centre.

Additional CVRD COVID-19 information can be found at www.cvrd.bc.ca/3267/COVID-19-Coronavirus-Information.

To wear a mask or not?

I want to support our local economy and keep business doors open. How can we work towards ensuring there is not a repeat of our businesses having to close again and the loss of financial stability for so many in our community that are already struggling? How can we protect others in our community and those around us in our daily lives? I have a great collection of masks.

I always have one in my pocket, purse, on my bike and in the car ready to put on when I am unable to maintain the physical distancing of six feet. If you read about the 1918 pandemic, there were multiple waves. If wearing a mask helps flatten the curve and keeps my family, friends and neighbours employed and others safe, I’m in. When I was elected, my family grew to 84,000 people. We are living in very challenging times. As Dr. Bonnie Henry reminds us, “we are in this together . . . Be kind, be calm, stay safe.”

The greeting of “best of the season” usually is said at Christmas time, but I wish you all the best of the summer season.

Take care and stay safe.

If you have questions and/or comments, please contact me at lynne.smith@cvrd.bc.ca or 250-701-1407. Additional articles and information can be found on SaltiarNews.ca.

TAKE 5

take5.ca

29

30

The Secret of Trees’ Knees — at Wildwood Ecoforest

BY SARA MIMICK When I used to look at a tree stump, I didn’t think too much about it and would often dismiss it as just another tree stump. However, one day someone told me a secret — a secret that many tree stumps hold within them, including those in and amongst the ecoforest of Wildwood located in Cedar. This secret is quite extraordinary, and it is called the “trees knees.”

The trees knees is a name given to

take5.ca

stumps of harvested trees whose bark grows to repair and cover the exposed tops of the stump. The bark seals the top of the stump, similar to the way our human bodies heal a cut with harder and tougher skin of a scar. It is a mysterious secret because how can a stump repair its exposed top, especially if it has stopped growing? Is it alive? Typically leaves are the main indicator that a tree is alive, as a tree’s leaves convert sunlight into sugar through photosynthesis and feed the tree.

The answer is yes, the stump is still alive, and given the name the “trees knees” because of its short size, often standing at the height of a person’s knees. The secret to how these stumps can continue on living is found underground! In addition to getting food from their leaves, trees also send their roots far into the soil, looking for water and nutrients. Roots from other trees often bump each other and some fuse together, connecting their root systems. The root systems remain intact and connected even when a tree is harvested. Thus, the stumps are still attached through

AUGUST 2020

their roots to other tree roots, which possess the benefits of photosynthesis.

This keeps the stumps alive and giving them the benefits of repairing their tops.

Sometimes a stump can remain alive in this manner for hundreds and hundreds of years. Tree and stump roots are also highly connected by fungal threads called mycorrhiza that provide the trees and stumps with water and nutrients in exchange for sugar produced by the tree.

Next time you are at Wildwood Ecoforest or another forest scattered with tree stumps, see how many trees knees you can discover along the trail! Look for the sealed over-tops that have rough and bumpy bark. When you find one, look around to see if you notice older and tall trees surrounding the stump.

Which ones of these trees are connected to the stump and feeding it underground? Also, gently touch the top of the stump. What does it feel like? Does it remind you of one of your scars?

Now that you know the mystery of trees knees, this is just one secret hidden within Wildwood Ecoforest! Wildwood holds many more secrets, some of

TAKE 5

take5.ca

which are ready to be uncovered and revealed in an upcoming family-oriented, self-guided and physically-distanced event, The Secret Life of Trees. The Secret Life of Trees will take place at Wildwood Ecoforest on August 9, 2020 from 11 am to 3 pm. It is for ages 6 years and up. Pre-registration is required.

For more information and to register, please email to: wildwoodecoforesteducation@gmail.com.

Trees’ Knees at Wildwood Photo:Pam Murray

31

32

take5.ca

“Young Barolo can be very astringent. Your tongue will be seared by acid, your lips pummelled by tannin and your wallet gunned down in the street...”

Cooking with Wine Whenever I read a cookbook, not that I often do, not after my Kung Pao chicken caused a three-alarm fire in the toaster oven, there’s a good chance I’ll make a rude honking noise when the recipe calls for a cup or more of fine Cabernet, or equally expensive Pinot Noir, to marinate the family pork chop.

It always makes me wonder if (a) someone else is paying for the wine, (b) the chef majored in shoplifting, (c) the chef’s brain got marinated by mistake,

or (d) Gwyneth Paltrow has signed off on it.

Take the Italian dish, Beef Barolo for example, where a full bottle of Barolo gets dumped over the pot roast — a strange fate for what is considered the king of Italian wine. Barolo prices start at $35, quickly advance to $100, then sky rocket from there.

Using pricy Barolo as a cooking liquid would even give pause to none other than Floyd Mayweather, the American boxer with the pea-sized brain, who, weather permitting, burns $100 bills — just his way of saying that he, not Don-

AUGUST 2020

ald Trump, is the dumbest man in North America.

Too, even if Barolo was cheap, it wouldn’t be my first choice as a cooking wine. Young Barolo can be very astringent. Your tongue will be seared by acid, your lips pummelled by tannin and your wallet gunned down in the street.

I say drink the Barolo, braise the pot roast in an inexpensive fruity red and whatever you do don’t go near the toaster oven. It would be nice, though, if we could do some blind tasting. Beef braised in Barolo verses beef braised in cheapskate red. I asked Floyd Mayweather if he’d help finance the project, but he said no thanks; he’d rather stick to burning $100 bills, which leaves the title for dumbest man in North America up for grabs. Go, Donald, go.

For a wine cheap enough to marinate pork chops, but good enough to drink, try Rigamarole Red. On sale for only $10.

You can follow Delbert at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com or pick up his book at the Mahle House, Co-Co Cafe, TAKE 5 office or throughout the community for just $20.

TAKE 5

take5.ca

33

34

take5.ca

WANTED VOLUNTEERS needed to help with research, 250245-0100 or info@ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca.

BUSINESS EXPERIENCED HOUSESITTER Now offering senior companionship, respite care and concierge services. Peaceofmindcare. wordpress.com. Call Kathleen 250-619-0786 or email kgrcoaching@gmail.com.

I CAN EDIT. Copy editing, proofreading, structural editing and more. Fiction or nonfiction, web content and eBook prep.

For more information, email editican@gmail. com.

VIDEO PRODUCTION services, from script to screen, edited and ready to post on YouTube, Facebook or your website. editor@ take5.ca.

HEALTH & WELLNESS MOBILE FOOT CARE NURSE. Corns, callus, fungus, diabetes. Contact Carol Hollett, LPN/ Foot Care Nurse, at ghollett99@hotmail.com or 250-210-1191.

TAI CHI for mental & physical health. Beginner classes start Sept. & Jan., Mondays, at Cedar Heritage Centre. On-going class Wednesdays at North Oyster Community Centre. Both classes 10am–noon; www.taichinanaimo.org. Call Sara 250-245-1466.

AUGUST 2020

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.

ISLAND PRUNING. Professional tree care from large scale orchards to budding new trees. I can meet any pruning need. Shrubs, vines and ornamental. Large and small clean ups. Call Darcy Belcourt 250-323-1260.

HOME & YARD CONCRETE RESULTS. Contracting, fullservice forming and finishing, walls, walks, patios, drives. 35 years experience. Call Gord 250-753-4024.

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

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

GARDEN RENOVATION AND LANDSCAPING. Are you thinking of a garden renovation or landscaping project?

Excellent quality and knowledge. We are happy to assist you with any landscaping or gardening work you need. Estimates are always free. Give Sandpiper Gardens a call!

250-246-2421.

PETS PROFESSIONAL PET CARE SERVICE. “Leash ’em & walk ’em” with Marlena & Babs. I am bonded, have Animal First Aid and CPR. My service for all pet includes dog walking, home care visits, overnight in your home and much more. As my love is yours! Call 250.246.3394 SENIORS HIRED HAND FOR INDEPENDENT ELDER. Odd jobs: companionship, meal prep, etc! Valid First Aid/CPR, Clean Driver’s record, Level 2 Foodsafe, Gardner and Handywoman. Call Marilyn at 250606-7069.

GRANNYS ON THE GO COMPANION SERVICES. Are you looking for someone that can help you with an active senior family member? Well look no further than Janet Bowman at janetmb@shaw.ca or 250-924-1515.

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

LEAVE A LEGACY. Memoirs, family cookbooks, personal histories, we can help get your project ready to press. Available in print and eBook format.

Professional publishing services for corporate or individuals. editor@take5.ca or call 250-245-7015.

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

TAKE 5 ADS WORK! The deadline for the September 2020 edition is August 15, 2020. Please email your ad to info@take5.ca or phone 250-2457015 and have a credit card ready. Remember all ads are 25% off for September.

TAKE 5

take5.ca

35

TAKE 5

take5.ca

37

Kid’s Pirate Days online The Ladysmith Maritime Society is not letting COVID-19 ruin their popular Kid’s Pirate Day. The fun day long event was scheduled for the first Saturday in June but the pandemic forced its cancellation.

Instead the society is hosting its first ever online Kid’s Pirate Days which they hope will go viral.

Kristi's Joy circumnavigating Vancouver Island. Photo: Nick Longo

Exploring the Island

The pirates are back but online this year for a virtual Kid’s Pirates Days.

Starting Monday, August 24 to Friday August 28 check out the links to daily events on the LMS website for adventure and fun with Captain Jack. There you will find a new 30 minute production each day featuring stories, jokes, balloon animals, knots, pirate projects and costumes, treasure hunt, prizes, quizzes, fun, Captain Jack and friends and so much more.

You can participate by picking up a free bag of supplies for activities. A highlight video will showcase some of the youth projects.

Organizers say they have had great support from community organizations, businesses and talents.

Pickup locations and times will be posted at lmsmarina.ca

A group of Vancouver Islanders have teamed up together to sail around Vancouver Island, covering close to 800 kilometers through some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in the world.

The crew aboard, a 63-foot ketch, SV Kristi’s Joy home based in Ladysmith, departed out of Nanaimo July 5 and is scheduled to return to Ladysmith in August 10.

The team aboard is made up of videographers, writers, geologist, divers and blue water sailors.

The circumnavigation marks the first leg of a three season expedition to journey in the wakes of previous explorers such as Captain George Vancouver, Captain Cook and the Sir Francis Drake who plied these waters as early as 1578.

The early pathfinders opened the sea routes for Europeans to settle Vancouver Island, paving the way for fur traders, whalers, commercial fishers, coal miners, prospectors and lumberjacks, all drawn from around the globe by the bounty of Vancouver Island, leading to the development of the British Columbia as we know today.

“Our voyage through history also relives the life and struggle of the nearly 50 First Nations who have inhabited this great island for over 10,000 years before the appearance of Teri Taylor explores the wartime relics on Yorke island

Captain Drake,” said Andrew Gunson, of AJ’s Industries and a diver.

The team is visiting abandoned indigenous communities watched over by the spirits of Elders, as well as interviewing contemporary leaders.

Shipwrecks, spawning salmon, humpback whales, Black bears, wolves, stellar sea lions and sea otters, coastal rain forests, remote deserted isles and forgotten settlements will be documented.

Leading this Vancouver Island documentary are Terra Marine Adventures of Nanaimo, who is using their vessel Kristi’s Joy as lodging and a recording platform. S.V. Maiatla and AJ’s Industries, authors and publishers of Seafaring Adventure Literature, and TAKE 5. The consortium intends to produce a series of documentaries and books showcasing Vancouver’s Island history of land, sea and peoples.

Follow along on FaceBook #kristisjoy #sailingvancouverisland