Oak Bay News, May 20, 2015

Wednesday, May 20, 2015 oakbaynews.com

A new pageOak Bay High grad joining parliamentary page program

Page A3

NEWS: Community sending aid to Vanuatu /A2ARTS: St. Luke’s Players stage marital farce /A6FEATURE: Event celebrates YES Award winners /A11

OAK BAYNEWSOak Bay bids farewell to community landmark

Christine van ReeuwykNews Staff

An old, frail man struggles with a walker in the sand of Willows Beach, sweating in summer heat walking the waterline during the lowest of tides.

Starfish dot the sand, curling under blazing sun. He strains to bend and flick them into the water, one-by-one. An unsympathetic crowd carouses by, taunting the man. “What’s the point? You’ll never get them all in the water.”

In answer, he flips a sea star into the waves. “Made a difference for that one.”

It’s an adaptation of an age-old tale, told by longtime teacher Allen York, that illustrates what professionals do at Oak Bay High.

As a counsellor at the high school he’s a fan of a good analogy, translating an idea or feeling people grapple with into something they already understand.

In this case it’s teachers, and peers, who work as a community to make Oak Bay High what it is – helping each other reach the “top shelf”.

Being a longtime counsellor he’s keenly aware of the pitfalls of youth.

“We’re the equivalent of a small town and you see everything from celebration to tragedy,” he said. “There are always students making poor choices … Every young animal pushes up against the fence.”

The key is to be there, and if they don’t feel they can

quite reach that “top shelf of excellence”, help lift them.

“Excellence is not the Lamborghini in the parking lot. Excellence is reaching your full potential.”

At Oak Bay High, he says, the teachers, students and administration all contribute to that goal, living up to the four pillars approach the school embodies.

Students are set to start classes in the new $54 million 151,000 square foot building this fall. Inspiring and flexible spaces have been thoughtfully crafted to engage students in the four pillars of education at Oak Bay High School: arts, academics, athletics and citizenship.

Each will play a prominent role in the farewell event

slated for Saturday at the school. Four alumni will pass on the pillars to a current Grade 11 student who will take that ethos into the new school – symbolically transferring the pillars of the school from one place to the other.

“We think it’s important to recognize what has been, and take the things that have meaning to us all to a new building,” said principal Dave Thomson. “The idea has meaning for the kids we have, because early in the new school year, that student who accepted the symbolic gift will then present it to the school as we meet as a new school.”

Christine van Reeuwyk/News Staff

Allen York retires from his sun-filled office in the East building at Oak Bay High School after more than 30 years working with staff and students there.

Allen York will say farewell to both the old and new schools as he retires in June after more than three decades at Oak Bay High.

York “grew up on a surfboard” in Australia and discov-ered a love for Canada while seeking adventure in Alberta. With much travel between the countries, he returned to Canada more and more but missed the coast – so he came to B.C.

He started in classrooms that used to be called ‘learning assistance’ for those who have differing learning capabili-ties. “That was me when I was growing up in Australia. I had a difficult youth,” he said. “You know you’re a teacher when you can teach a child who seems to not want to learn.”

He’s taught everything from firearms instruction to edu-cating post-grad teachers at UVic. He even tried to retire four years ago, but couldn’t emotionally do it.

“I have not had to work for many years, I choose to stay here,” he said. “I’m just so thrilled to be part of it for 33 years.”

He’ll double up his outdoor time in retirement, expecting to visit the new school, with surfboard in tow.

“I want to spend some time travelling and kayaking,” he said, returning to places such as the Broken Islands or Broughton Archipelago. “My fear is, if I accidentally cut myself when I’m camping, I will bleed green.”

Teacher reflects on 33 yearsEvents planned May 21-23 at Oak Bay High School

PLEASE SEE: Guided tours illuminate history of old school buildings, Page A3

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Needed supplies set sail for VanuatuChristine van ReeuwykNews Staff

A container filled with sensible supplies and a little bit of heart is on its way to Vanuatu.

The Victoria Vanuatu Physician Project (ViVa), in conjunction with Disaster Aid Canada and the Compassionate Resource Warehouse packed a shipping container to the brim with much-needed disaster relief – construction, medical, school, recreation and skill development supplies for the nation made up of 80 islands in the South Pacific in the aftermath of Cyclone Pam.

“It’s been really wonderful and ViVa feels very fortunate,” said ViVa spokesman Dr. Jeff Unger.

The Victoria emergency room physician and his family spent seven months living on the island of Tanna in Vanuatu while Unger worked as a volunteer physician as part of ViVa. The Victoria-Vanuatu Physician Project is a small, grassroots, not-for-profit organization that supplies a physician to staff the 40-bed Lenakel Hospital on Tanna. Over its 24 years more than 40 Greater Victoria physicians and their families have made the trip.

The Ungers returned to

their Oak Bay home shortly before the devastating cyclone brought winds reaching 320 km/h, spreading devastation across 22 islands in the archipelago and impacting 188,000 people, 60,000 of them school-age children.

“Obviously this has touched a chord with some people and we’re committed mid to long term to really help rebuild there as some organizations that have been active there are pulling away now,” Unger said.

ViVa will continue its partnership with an Australian team through Rotary International.

“We’ve done work with them for hospital maintenance the last 15 years. We know how they work and they do great work and the funds will go directly to what’s needed,” Unger said.

Funds will come from some ViVa already holds, private donations, and some they will continue to raise in what they see right now as a three- to

five-year plan. The first container that

left Victoria May 9, was filled with post-disaster supplies such as tents that will house 10 people, water purification means, tarps and tools, things needed in the immediate sense.

“It was just something that we thought would be tangible and effective and really worthwhile within a few weeks of the disaster occurring,” Unger said. “One of the things we realized after this is disaster preparedness is not something that’s a reality there.”

ViVa purchased the container which will stay onsite at the hospital and serve as a safe storage facility for future disaster supplies.

A load of soccer balls and pumps offered by Spank It Sports and two sets of jerseys donated by Victoria soccer clubs offer a bit of spirit lifting beyond housing and fresh water.

“We are really thankful for the response people have had. People have been really generous here in Victoria… and across Canada,” Unger said, adding ViVa has raised over $50,000 and will continue to co-ordinate ongoing efforts with other local organizations. [email protected]

Carla Unger photo

Volunteers fill a container bound for Vanuatu with post-disaster supplies such as tents that will house 10 people, water purification means, tarps and tools.

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Opening a page on political history in the making

Guided tours illuminate history of old school buildingsThe event is at Oak Bay High School on

May 23 from 4 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person with tickets available at the door.

“The nature of it is to carry the traditions forward,” Thomson said. “If you don’t collect the oral history and hear the stories you lose it … It’s about appropriate honouring of a significant school history and a significant school.”

When the chain-link fences come down in the fall, the landscape will mimic what York already sees in the reflection of those

four pillars at Oak Bay. It will be wide open and welcoming.

Teachers aren’t simply teaching math, they’re teaching young people the subject of math, and using that material and means to help them develop a sense of self.

“I’m certain the tradition of excellence will migrate into that building, because it’s carried by our teachers and students,” York said. “There’s an expectation. It means something to be an Oak Bay student. It’s the students that guard and continue the excellence and they know it.”

He admits the school is accused at

times of being clique-y and there are cliques, many groups from athletic to a strong Gay Straight alliance group. There’s an international program that welcomes students from abroad, Best Buddies which pairs kids of differing learning and life skill capacities. There are sports teams and math clubs and dance troupes and those who volunteer outside the school.

“The opportunities are absolutely endless … They’re not closed clubs. If you want to get into athletics you’ll be welcomed by the jock community,” York said. “We don’t give up on kids. We don’t say ‘go away, you’re not one of us’.”

The farewell event officially starts with tours May 21 through 23, open to staff and students from the past as well. The tours will offer “re-energizing of that feeling it means something to have gone through the Oak Bay High experience.”

“It has the potential to have the individual realize they’ve been part of a really great tradition – a tradition of excellence,” York said. “This school is like an ethos, a living entity.

Guided tours of the old buildings will be available May 21, 22 and 23. RSVP online at oakbay.sd61.bc.ca/our-school/farewell/.

[email protected]

Dan EbenalNews Staff

One Oak Bay student intends to have a front-row seat to the history being made in Canada’s halls of power.

Jeromy Kixmoller has been accepted into the parliamentary page program, beginning his one-year stint working in the House of Commons this September.

“I’m excited about the upcoming election. I think that some of the debates that will happen in the House will just be extraordinary to listen to and be a part of,” said Kixmoller, who is preparing to graduate from Oak Bay High.

“I’m excited to meet all the MPs and hear what they have to say and learn from the clerks and everyone working with the page program,” he said.

“I love learning and I think this experience is a great opportunity to do so.”

Kixmoller will be studying public affairs and policy management at Carleton University in the fall, with his goal being a career as a diplomat.

“My uncle was one and he has told me stories about his career and it just intrigued me,” he said, adding that when someone introduced him to the page program for Carleton students he

knew that would be the perfect stepping stone to becoming a diplomat.

“Just knowing a little bit more about politics, because that isn’t my strong suit but it’s something that interests me. I want to learn more about Canada’s Parliament and really get a base on the politics and that can further my education on diplomacy.”

Getting accepted into the page program was no easy task, as

only 40 of the more than 400 students who apply each year are accepted.

Kixmoller began the application process back in December, putting in countless hours studying for the program. He credits Scott Alexander, his history teacher at Oak Bay High, with helping clear the hurdles encountered through the application process.

“I really couldn’t have gone

anywhere without him, cause he was along there every step of the way mentoring me.”

Alexander said the pair spent a lot of time going over things they felt could be on the interview, and he credits Kixmoller with reaching out to others in the community who might be able to help him. Following the initial tests, Kixmoller had to take part in a bilingual interview, with the conversation drifting back

and forth between English and French.

“I’m from Quebec so that one was fairly easy for me,” said Kixmoller, before adding with a laugh, “My mom would have killed me if I hadn’t gotten that one.”

Alexander said pages serve the members of Parliament while the House is in session, bringing everything from water to budget documents to the members.

“The exciting part for Jeromy is he gets to be the ears in the room of historical debate, which he is very excited about,” he said.

Alexander said he can’t recall another student being accepted to the parliamentary page program in the 14 years he has been at Oak Bay High, and said several teachers worked with Jeromy and guided him along the way. “And kudos to the language teachers that kept his language abilities engaged, because he wouldn’t have got this far without them.”

Kixmoller heads to Ottawa in August to begin his training, starting with memorizing each of the 308 MPs.

“And then in October, after the election happens, they will change and I’ll have to do it all again.”

But Kixmoller isn’t deterred by the daunting task ahead and is grateful for the opportunity. He said he’s looking forward to “meeting some of the most powerful people in Canada and shake their hands and hopefully put a lasting image in their heads. I’m just excited to be there.”

[email protected]

Dan Ebenal/News Staff

Jeromy Kixmoller will be heading off to Ottawa this summer, where he will begin a one-year term as a parliamentary page in the House of Commons.

Continued from Page A1

Jeromy Kixmoller begins work as parliamentary page in September

A4 • www.oakbaynews.com Wednesday, May 20, 2015 - OAK BAY NEWS

EDITORIAL Penny Sakamoto Group PublisherDan Ebenal Editor Oliver Sommer Advertising Director

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OAK BAYNEWS

2009

OUR VIEW

It was 2008 when word first surfaced that B.C. farmland was being bought up to grow trees as a European carbon offset.

Reckitt Benckiser Inc., a British-based global manufacturer of household products such as Lysol spray and Calgon laundry soap, bought 1,500 hectares east of Vanderhoof and planted aspen. For comparison, that’s about the size of downtown Vancouver from 16th and Oak to Stanley Park.

Since tree growing is permitted in the Agricultural Land Reserve, a use intended for fruit, ornamental or nursery trees, no permission was needed. And to meet the carbon offset rules of the UN’s International Panel on Climate Change, a 100-year restrictive covenant against harvesting trees was issued by B.C.’s land titles office.

Goodbye farmland.After that deal, the B.C.

government changed legislation in 2011 to require permission from the Agricultural Land Commission to make these covenants valid. Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick says he is waiting for that process to be tested.

It likely will be soon. Reckitt has bought another 7,000 hectares of cleared farmland from Prince George down through the Cariboo to Quesnel. NDP agriculture critic Lana

Popham has been tracking these acquisitions, and she says there are

more deals in the works.Last fall, the Bulkley

Nechako Regional District wrote to Victoria Wood, Reckitt Benckiser’s “global head of sustainability,” telling her that “the planting of trees on centrally located and productive agricultural lands is not appropriate” and would weaken local farm economies.

Wood responded that the RB Trees project targets only “marginally

productive” land such as pasture, abandoned farms or those that have been up for sale for long periods.

Former Cariboo North MLA Bob Simpson raised the issue in the legislature in 2008, noting that Crown land near Vanderhoof had been sold for farming, bought by a numbered company and then “flipped” for around $1 million to RB Trees.

Now mayor of Quesnel, Simpson takes issue with the company’s claims with his usual shyness.

“It’s bull----,” he told me. “This isn’t marginal land.”

He said it includes prime alfalfa fields and historical ranch and forage crop lands. In one case, neighbours found out about the new use when they saw a helicopter spraying herbicide to prepare the area for tree seedlings.

In the Cariboo as in other rural

B.C. areas, aging farmers want to retire and young people keen to work seven days a week are in short supply. So naturally there is pressure to sell.

Perhaps Letnick is right, and the ALC will stop productive farmland from being turned back into forest. While we’re waiting for that, here are a couple of other questions.

What happens when these forests burn? The first big forest fire of 2015 grew out of control near Prince George last week. And since aspen doesn’t last 100 years, what is its real carbon offset value?

How’s that European carbon trading market doing? It’s a mess, with the cost of emitting a tonne of carbon dioxide fallen far below what’s needed to be effective, and Interpol investigating various schemes to game the system.

Remember B.C’s own Pacific Carbon Trust? This Gordon Campbell brainchild to sell carbon offsets was quietly greenhouse gassed after the Auditor General revealed its first two big projects were of questionable value to say the least.

Finally, does anyone really think that returning B.C.’s scarce farmland to forest is a good way to change the weather? Would it offset the loss of local production and trucking in farm produce from elsewhere?

And where are B.C.’s tireless food security advocates on this dubious scheme?

Tom Fletcher is legislature reporter and columnist for Black Press.

Sacrificing farmland for climate change

The horrific earthquake in Nepal has prompted a wave of generosity from Canadians – including throughout Victoria and across the Island – which is very heartening.

For the next month, the federal government has promised to double contributions made to Canadian-registered relief agencies that are working to help people who have been displaced. An earthquake that struck the country on April 25 killed more than 8,000 people and left hundreds of thousands homeless. A second, smaller quake hit the region May 12, only adding to the death toll and devastation.

Here in B.C., there are lessons we can learn from Nepal. While there are vast differences in building standards between Nepal and B.C., it is important to point out how dangerous multi-storey buildings can be when a quake strikes.

While newer buildings in B.C. are built to withstand strong earthquakes, older ones are not.

Knowing exactly what to do is important, but perhaps equally as important is knowing what would likely happen to the building you live or work in, should a powerful earthquake strike.

We will have a strong earthquake here at some time. The fault lines, as in Nepal, are nearby. There are almost constant earthquakes up and down the west coast, and while most are very small and cause little damage, there will be a big one eventually.

Roads, airports, rail lines and other transportation arteries can suffer severe damage in earthquakes. That can mean help will be a long time in arriving. It is important to have a supply of water, medical supplies, food to eat and plans for shelter, because it is possible that you will be cut off from assistance for days.

The Oak Bay Emergency Program has put together information on what residents can and should do to prepare for a major event such as an earthquake. Residents can learn more, such as the items you should have on hand to keep you and your loved ones safe in the event of an emergency, on the district’s website at oakbay.ca.

Most of the issues that keep people safe in earthquakes aren’t big ones – but they do require thinking ahead. The Nepal earthquake is a good reminder of that.

Tom FletcherB.C. Views

Nepal quake offersa timely reminder


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LETTERS

No justification for Oak Bay tax hikeMy head is still spinning since Mayor Jensen’s

comments for a whooping 5.1 per cent property tax increase were first reported on the front page of the Oak Bay News.

My neighbours and I are still trying to determine whether the mayor was just practising his political-speak oratory skills, or was he testing the observation and comprehensive skills of Oak Bay residents?

However, if Mayor Jensen’s intention was to pitch and sell Oak Bay homeowners on his proposed 5.1 per cent property tax increase, he must do a far better job to justify it.

What does his “advancing alternative transportation” actually mean? Does the mayor know of another way to get people in and out of Oak Bay with our present single lane road system? Has he found a new solution to dramatically increase the very small percentage of cyclists that currently commute?

While studies have noted initiatives to accomplish this end, none have yet gotten people out of their cars. Might there be something up the mayor’s sleeve that he has not yet revealed?

The mayor says the strategic plan “inspires land use innovations.” Here we go again. What is well known is how allowing the various types of multi-dwellings on single-family lots has, in fact, negatively affected residents in other less desirable communities, and which were not at all innovative.

Since Oak Bay’s 2007 bylaw changes, what we have seen is a startling number of character homes destroyed and replaced with monster houses built on small lots, a monster apartment block and a monster duplex. These egregious monster-development eyesores may well fill the financial coffers of developers but they are now actively being protested by homeowners in Oak Bay and many B.C. communities.

The mayor’s plan to “introduce new strategic initiatives” means what? Mayor, please forthrightly provide transparency and substantive subject matter on these issues. Let’s not hold to champagne tastes with a beer pocket budget. Please do not cost us another giant leap in our ever-increasing property taxes.

Phyllis CampanelloOak Bay

Development dilemmaFor years now the

development community has been telling Oak Bayers that if we renew and densify our community that we will increase the tax base and therefore our individual property taxes will be held down.

OK, we have just suffered through a four-year building boom that has profited those same developers and guess what .... this year our taxes are going up by the most .... ever. We have been lied to and now we are expected to pay through the nose because of those lies. Perhaps Oak Bay needs another kind of Tea Party .... the Boston kind.

Rhondda TolenOak Bay

Round we goIn response to William Smith’s

letter in your May 8 edition, I would add that the intersection of Windsor and Transit also needs a roundabout.

Whether going north or south on Transit, one has to pull out halfway across the intersection to see if there is anything coming from the left. A well-landscaped roundabout here

would look good, slow down traffic on Windsor, and make it easier to cross Windsor on Transit.

Jeff PophamOak Bay

Taxed to the limitNils Jensen is into his fourth

year of being Oak Bay’s mayor, and every year he has raised our taxes, and every year it has been by a greater percentage. Perhaps in prior years he could justify it because of inflation, but not this year.

Five per cent. Are you kidding me? That is double any other tax increase in Greater Victoria. It’s time that city hall began living within our means, and by our I mean we taxpayers that pay the mayor to keep a lid on costs.

Liz BelstenOak Bay

Paying the priceI have loved living in Oak Bay

for most of my life, and my only peeve has been the growing number of construction zones making noise, making a mess and choking our streets.

I have just found out that

city hall needs a bigger budget, which means that my taxes will be going up, way up. And why? Because city hall needs more staff to encourage more construction projects.

I’m sorry, did I miss something here? I am expected to pay more taxes to encourage the one thing I dislike about living in Oak Bay. Why not cover the budget shortfall by taxing construction projects?

Gail BowkerOak Bay

The News welcomes your opinions.

To put readers on equal footing, and to be sure that all opinions are heard, please keep letters to less than 300 words.

The News reserves the right to edit letters for style, legality, length and taste.

Send your letters to:Mail: Letters to the Editor,

Oak Bay News, 207A - 2187 Oak Bay Ave., Victoria, B.C., V8R 1G1Email: editor@

oakbaynews.com

Letters to the Editor

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St. Luke’s Players bring another comedic farce to the stage on Cedar Hill X Road.

In Barely Heirs, playing May 20 to 31, Jane is about to inherit a fortune.

The only stipulation is that she has to be married for six months before she can receive her inheritance. All would have gone without a hitch had Jane really been married. With the help of her neighbour’s husband, Tom, she just needs to keep the truth from the lawyer, Tom’s wife, Jane’s ex-boyfriend, Jane’s mother and a cop. Things definitely get complicated in this show written by David Lassig and directed by the team of Neville Owen and Sharon Sutherland.

There are evening and matinee performances at St. Luke’s Hall, 3821 Cedar Hill X Rd.

Visit stlukesplayers.org for detailed showtimes. Tickets are available at Ivy’s Book Shop, 2188 Oak Bay Ave.

Comedy banks on fake marriageSt. Luke’s brings Barely Heirs to the stage this month

Photo submitted

St. Luke’s Players bring Barely Heirs to the stage starting May 20 at St. Luke’s Hall, 3821 Cedar Hill X Rd.

For the first time in their 32-year history, The Waterboys will play in Victoria at the University of Victoria’s Farquhar Auditorium.

The band has explored a number of different styles over the years – depending on the era and the composition of the band at the time. They are known as a hybrid of indie rock and folk with blues and Celtic influences. The show will please fans both old and new with a selection of songs

from their new album as well as fan favourites.The Waterboys perform May 20 at 7:30 p.m. in

the Farquhar Auditorium, University Centre, UVic. Tickets start at $58, $62 and $68 and are

available through the UVic Ticket Centre at 250-721-8480, online at tickets.uvic.ca or in person at the University Centre. For more information, visit uvic.ca/auditorium.

[email protected]

Waterboys take stage at UVic auditorium


Yesterday I met with a woman whose online handle is ‘Dahlia Queen’. She greeted me in her suburban driveway next to a trailer of Mitchell’s compost. She did not have bright spiky hair, nor a peachy inwardness. She’d just come home from work – work that didn’t look like it had anything to do with gardening, for she was wearing clean black slacks and a fire-engine-red collared shirt, her cardigan neatly buttoned over top. She greeted me kindly considering I’d only just called the day before, telling her I’d found her phone number on a baggie containing a tuber at the Oak Bay Florist. Was she the one who sold the single blooms in the fall? The dinner-plate-sized dahlias? Those strong-stemmed ones in the fabulous colours for four or five dollars apiece?

When she said yes, I asked if I could meet her the following day. Won’t take an hour, I had said. She lived by the university: How big could her plot be?

Try 800 dahlias strong.

Beside the driveway

the stakes began – rows of rebar, soldiering along fence lines, standing four feet high. Beds of black earth pocked

with holes awaited plants, while beds held dahlias a few inches high. Hundreds of pots huddled under plastic frames around the house, and her garage had become a greenhouse – skylighted, open-doored – every

surface covered with white-tagged pots. How did she do it? And why?

The ‘Dahlia Queen’, aka Connie Young-Davis, grows for shows. She grows for contests around the Pacific Northwest and breeds her own varieties. She’s a self-proclaimed hobbyist, a humble label for

someone who has won countless awards and is nothing short of a plant breeder, a woman doing the ancient and admirable work of bringing new horticultural varieties to life. She cross-pollinates by hand, slips stockings over flowers to keep off meddling bees, and waits years for results.

I’m guessing you don’t have years to grow dahlias from seed, so here are some of Connie’s tips for a fine stock of late-summer blooms. First, get going now. Plant some tubers in pots. Keep them moist, but not soggy, and warm, but not hot. Pavers that have been warmed by the sun during the day are fine for overnight, or a cold frame, a windowsill or a garage. The tubers may be showing growth by now – a wink of green from an

eye, or a potato-like sprout – both signs they are ready to stop draining carbs from the tuber and start photosynthesizing their way towards flowers.

Connie starts her tubers in pots to keep herself organized and get an earlier start. Given I’m long on faith and low on patience, I’d already planted my tubers when we met. I’d amended the soil with compost and an organic fertilizer first, which Connie condoned. Dahlias are heavy feeders. She plants her tubers only about an inch under the surface, tends her soil and waters frequently. I set mine about three inches underground. Both of us use raised beds. (In my perennial border, I dug up some clumps that had overwintered, divided them and re-planted them in compost. These will need staking come July.)

I’ve been hearing from some readers who are gardening on balconies, many in hot sun. Dahlias are a good choice for planters, but keep them moist and well-fed. It’s fine to buy plants at a nursery, but choose a variety that won’t grow too tall. You don’t want a plant a big as a person appearing on your deck, and a healthy dahlia can be a big

dahlia. Because I’m a wannabe flower farmer, I’ve sunk six-foot-tall T-posts into my dahlia bed with a plan to corral my fantasy flowers with baling twine. Connie has a little more self control. She disbuds her plants, pinching out side shoots to

grow larger blooms on singular, strong stems.

If you’d like to visit Connie’s garden in August to see an astonishing range of dahlia colours and forms, email: [email protected]. You can also visit the Victoria Dahlia Society’s

website at www.victoriadahliasociety.org for more information on local shows and sales.

Christin Geall teaches creative nonfiction at the University of Victoria and is an avid Oak Bay gardener.

Plant dahlias now for summer bouquets

Pictured clockwise from top left: Lancress, Connie Harry, Chilson’s Pride, Snoho Sonia and Parkland Rave.

Christin GeallCultivated

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The eye is somewhat protected against UV rays by the eyelid, the eyebrow, the orbit, the nose and the cheek. However, if you are outdoors a lot, in very strong sunlight, or near water, snow and ice, you need extra protection. Wear a wide brimmed hat, sun-glasses, and sunscreen or proper clothing to protect your skin. If you don’t, you may be getting too much UV radiation. If this happens only rarely, it could just mean sore eyes and a painful sunburn lasting a day or two. If you make a habit of not protecting yourself, all year round, you risk developing eye and skin prob-lems when you’re older.

Experts estimate more than half of our UV exposure occurs by the age of 18. Children’s eyes are also at risk because the lenses of their eyes block fewer ul-traviolet rays. That’s why young children should play in the shade between 11 am and 3 pm, and always wear hats with wide brims to cover their heads and shade their eyes. Of course, other types of sun protec-tion are important too. Don’t forget sunglasses, sun-screen and proper clothing. Even if the day is hazy or cloudy, you can still get a sunburn from UV radiation.

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Ready to rollOak Bay Mayor Nils Jensen and Coun. Michelle Kirby will race downtown in the annual Commuter Challenge Wednesday for Bike to Work Week. In a second race that morning, District of Oak Bay team leader for Bike to Work Week Sonya Reuter challenged Ray Herman, the director of parks and recreation, to the Commuter Challenge. In the friendly race between cyclist and vehicle, both begin from a common place of their choosing and end downtown Victoria at Fort and Blanshard.

Christine van Reeuwyk/News Staff

The men’s club that meets at Oak Bay United welcomes guest speaker Mike de Jong on Wednesday.

Have dinner with the Holocaust survivor, former police officer and ordained minister who is active in Ride-to-Life, Blue Knight motorcycle club, business owner and rides a Harley Davidson

Ultra Classic.His is a story of tragedy and triumph. The New

Men’s Club features fun, food, fellowship and inspiration May 20th at 6:30 p.m. in the church community hall at 1355 Mitchell St.

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The first of two plant sales held each year to support widows and orphans in Rwanda upped the ante by bringing in $1,000 more than last year’s spring sale – $4,400.

“The sale went exceptionally well. The weather was inviting enough and new customers showed up along with our annual visitors,” said John Jordan. “Many people commented that they came after reading about our Rwanda work. I believe some of them will remain connected to it and us somehow.”

Among the beneficiaries of these funds are four orphans the organization found good foster homes for during Jordan’s last stay in Rwanda.

“We provide the families, who are poor themselves, a stipend of $20 a month to offset food, clothes, school and health costs,” he said.

For example, 12-year-old Elias had been fending for himself as a kitchen boy for several years when Jordan encountered him at his little encampment under a town wood shed. “He now loves his new brothers and his new family loves him. He is attending first grade and will advance quickly, the teachers say.”

Jordan and his wife Toni plan to hold an end-of-season sale in late August or early September.

“These days I’m preparing reports on the several projects funded by various supporters last year and applying for new grants,” he said. “Meanwhile in Rwanda, they continue making toilets, stoves, providing the special ed for girls as well as building up their hygiene pad production capacity. Like any start-up business, these need lots of attention and nurturing.”

Visit innovative communities.org under ‘Widows and orphans rebuild in Rwanda’ to donate and receive a tax receipt, and read regular personal updates from Jordan.

cvanreeuwyk@oak baynews.com

Photo submitted

Patrons peruse the plants and a little information on the project the Beach Drive sale raised $4,400 for – supporting widows and orphans in Rwanda.

Plant sale benefitsorphans in Rwanda


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This month marks the centenary of one of the most emotionally charged events of the First World War: the sinking of RMS Lusitania.

In my Grade 12 history class I was taught the sinking of the Lusitania was a turning point in the war as it helped to sway American public opinion against the Germans as a result of the approximately 120 American lives lost when she was torpedoed by a U-boat, eventually bringing the U.S. into the conflict in 1917.

The degree of this influence is still debated by scholars today.

I was not taught anything about the impact that the loss of this ship off the distant coast of Ireland had upon my own hometown. In May 1915, Victoria was featured in news

stories across the world because of the terrible riots that ensued in the streets once news of the loss of the Lusitania reached the Island.

Lusitania was built for the Cunard Line in 1907 and at the time was a marvel of modern engineering: she was the fastest liner on the ocean, known as the “Greyhound of the Seas,” and with an average speed of more than 25 knots proudly claimed the Blue Riband for the fastest Atlantic crossing.

She had a regular route between Liverpool and New York, carrying visitors and immigrants in bright, luxurious surroundings. The crossing took on average around five days, with the fastest time being four days, 19 hours and 53 minutes.

There was a darker side to the Lusitania story, however. When she was constructed, the British government had subsidized the cost providing she could be converted to an armed merchant cruiser (AMC) in the event of war.

With war on the horizon, in 1913 she was refitted, and eventually repainted in “dazzle camouflage.” She featured a secret compartment for carrying munitions, and gun mounts on her decks which were concealed beneath the

teak overlay – ready for the addition of heavy guns if necessary.

She retained AMC status on paper but continued carrying civilian passengers through the early days of the war. Her bright Cunard paint job was restored, so she stood out against the grey Atlantic waters.

America remained neutral, but Lusitania was a British ship and as such highly vulnerable in the waters around the British Isles, which were declared a war zone by Germany in February 1915. They announced that any enemy ships in those waters would be sunk without warning by submarines.

There were rumors that Lusitania was carrying concealed munitions cargo along with her civilian passengers, as America, though officially neutral, was aiding the Allies by supplying arms.

On April 22 the German Embassy in the U.S. placed a warning in 50 American newspapers notifying travellers that “in accordance with formal notice given by the Imperial German Government, vessels flying the flag of Great Britain … are liable to destruction in those waters (around the British Isles).”

Regardless of this clear warning, tickets for the 202nd voyage of the Lusitania were offered at discount and when she set sail on May 1, 1915, there were 1,266 passengers and 696 crew onboard.

Because of the great speed of the ship, it was widely

said that she could outrun submarines. In hindsight this was tragic overconfidence.

On May 7, Lusitania was in British waters off the coast of Ireland, only hours from docking in Liverpool. U-20, a submarine which played a key role in the blockade of Britain, saw her approaching and recognized her as a registered British AMC and therefore a valid target.

Kapitanleutnant Walther Schwieger was in command of the submarine and gave the order to fire a single torpedo. It hit the starboard side below the bridge, and shortly thereafter a second explosion followed from inside Lusitania.

The source of this explosion has been widely debated. Some believe it to be the result of munitions components hidden in the secret compartment, but today most academics say it was the result of a boiler explosion.

Lusitania sank in 18 minutes. Schwieger wrote in his diary 15 minutes after he fired the torpedo, “It looks as if the ship will stay afloat only for a very short time ... I couldn’t have fired another torpedo into this mass of humans desperately trying to save themselves.”

Of that mass, 1,191 people perished. Amongst their number were 44 people from B.C., including a young, popular Victorian called Jim Dunsmuir, the scion of the wealthiest family in British Columbia.

When news of this tragedy reached Victoria, the city erupted in violence. This story will be told in part 2.

Lusitania sinking heard around the world

Photo contributed

The image is of a Cunard Liner in the First World War with “dazzle camouflage”.

Kate HumbleLocal History


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P H O T O F E A T U R E Photos by Christine van Reeuwyk

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Clockwise: »(From top right) This year’s group of YES Award winners. »(L-R) Oak Bay Mayor Nils Jensen shares a laugh with award-winner Christopher Graham »(L-R) Keynote speaker and 2014 YES Award winner Ruby Tang with Yes Award Committee co-chair Michelle Kirby. »(L-R) Janet Barclay presents flowers to YES Award Committee member Janet Welham. »(L-R) Oak Bay Police Chief Constable Andy Brinton with Oak Bay Kiwanis members Mark Payten, Leslie Johnston and Joan Trumble. »(L-R) Award-winners Rachel Hughes, Rubee Twohig and Annika Weir peruse the Oak Bay News’ special section celebrating the winners. »(L-R) Patrick Weir checks the writeup on daughter Annika . »(L-R) A group of parents and others snap photographs of the winners.

Celebrating Young Exceptional Stars

A total of 15 Oak Bay youth were honoured at the eighth annual YES Awards. These awards recognize the accomplishments of youth from grades 6-10 in the Oak Bay area The goal of the awards is to emphasize the positive achievements of Oak Bay’s young people, recognizing those who have distinguished them-selves in such areas as volunteerism, arts, citizenship, academics, athletics or have overcome obstacles to achieve their goals.

YES Awards Ceremony Wednesday, May 13 Sports View Deli, Bar and Grill

sceneandheardYES Award winners

Georgia Alexander – Grade 9, Oak Bay High;

Andrei Bielay – Grade 8, Monterey Middle School;

Jack Carson – Grade 8, Monterey Middle School;

Owen Crewe – Grade 8, Monterey Middle School;

Sophie de Goede – Grade 10, Oak Bay High;

Chris Graham – Grade 9, Pacific School of Innovation and Inquiry;

Rachel Hughes – Grade 8, Monterey Middle School;

Nicholas Kojima – Grade 8, Monterey Middle School;

Alisa Lyesina – Grade 8, Lansdowne Middle School;

Anika McDonald – Grade 8, Lansdowne Middle School;

Zachariah Mears – Grade 9, Esquimalt High School;

John Mossie – Grade 8, Lansdowne Middle School;

Carson Rust – Grade 8, Monterey Middle School;;

Rubee Twohig – Grade 8, Monterey Middle School;

Annika Weir – Grade 8, Monterey Middle School.

Chair anticipates further cuts in next year’s school budgetKendra WongBlack Press

The Greater Victoria School District was able to balance this year’s budget, but may have to make more cuts next year, says the board chair.

“Next year is going to be a tough year, it’s going to be a much more different year,” said board chair Edith Loring-Kuhanga.

“We’re already [seeing] that it’s going to be a tough year because there aren’t any savings, unless of course we get some one-time savings.”

The board predicted a roughly $8.4-million shortfall and were able to apply a carry forward of roughly $8.3 million to apply against

the 2015/2016 deficit, which included additional revenues and savings from the previous budget.

For example, the winter was not as cold, so the utilities budget had less pressure.

“For us, we had a carry forward that was used in part to balance [the budget],” said Debra Laser, secretary-treasurer for the district.

In order to make up for the remaining $66,000 deficit, trustees voted to eliminate an English Language Learning assistant, saving the district just over $52,000, and reduced its administrative supplies budget by $13,000 at a special board meeting in late April.

“Over the last few years we’ve been directed properly

and had some real good input and we were looking at forecasting for the last couple of years, looking at fiscal management and being really prudent with our resources and we were able to move [the carry] forward in that way,” said Loring-Kuhanga.

Unlike many Lower Mainland school districts that are being forced to cut things such as school buses from the budget, the board did not have to make any drastic changes this year.

But unless they can find extra savings, the $8.5-million shortfall is something they could face again next year.

“It’s going to be a tough year unless we get more resources from the government,” said Loring-Kuhanga.

BBB issues warning onfraudulent kiosk vendors

The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to use caution and know the risks of doing business with transient kiosk vendors.

“It is that wonderful time of year when a wide range of markets and festivals are taking place,” said Rosalind Scott, president and CEO of BBB serving Vancouver Island.

“Many of these events showcase small vendors selling a variety of products and services. While the majority of these vendors are reputable and trustworthy, some are not. It is unfortunate, but some situations do occur in which consumers find themselves with a faulty product that they cannot easily return. Either that or some other issue arises that cannot be addressed by the vendor, mainly because they have moved on and cannot be readily found.”

Transient kiosk vendors can be found at markets, festivals, fairs and in malls or shopping plazas. Kiosk vendors represent a wide range of large and small businesses, many with excellent customer service and outstanding reputations.

“The most common complaint related to kiosk vendors is their failure to provide a receipt or contact information to consumers,” said Scott. “And similarly to brick and mortar businesses, we occasionally hear about vendors that are outright scam artists.”

BBB recently received reports about a kiosk vendor operating in a number of Vancouver Island malls that was fraudulently using the name of a legitimate business and pretending to offer the opportunity to enter a contest to win a prize package. The fake vendor then used the contact information from the entry forms to trick people into believing they had won a prize package or upgrade for a fee. Once the fees were paid the vendor disappeared without ever providing the consumers with their prize, or the upgrade.

BBB recommends consumers consider the following tips before making a transaction with a kiosk vendor:

the time to chat with kiosk vendors to find out more about them and their business.

Before you make a purchase be sure to ask about the vendors return and exchange policies.

legitimate business they should be tracking their sales. Ask them for a receipt for your purchase and make sure the receipt clearly outlines the product you are purchasing and the vendor’s contact information.

with shopping from a kiosk vendor.

kiosk vendors have BBB business reviews. If you can, check out a vendor’s report before you do business with them.

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CANCEL YOUR Timeshare. No risk program stop mort-gage & maintenance pay-ments today. 100% money back guarantee. Free consul-tation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

HIP OR knee replacement? COPD or Arthritic Conditions? The Disability Tax Credit. $1,500 Yearly Tax Credit. $15,000 Lump Sum Refund (on avg) Apply Today! 1-844-453-5372.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

APPLY NOW: A $2,500 Pen-ny Wise scholarship is available for a woman entering the Journalism Certifi cate Pro-gram at Langara College in Vancouver. Application dead-line May 31, 2015. Email to [email protected]. More in-formation: www.bccommunity n ew s . c o m / o u r - p r o g r a m s / scholarship.

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION!In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit online: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career to-day!

HAIRCAREPROFESSIONALS

HAIRSTYLIST required for busy well established salon in Invermere BC. Excellent opportunity for a mo-tivated stylist. Easy to build clientele during busy summer months, lots of walk in traffi c. Leave message at 250-342-9863

HELP WANTED

UCLUELET PETROCANneeds lic. mechanic. West Coast living! 250-726-7477 [email protected]

HELP WANTED

PRODUCTION WORKERSCanada’s Largest Independently owned news-paper group is currently looking for Part Time Production Workers for its Victoria location.This is an entry level general labour position that involves physical handling of news-papers and advertising supplements.REQUIREMENTS:• Prior bindery and/or

machine operator experience would be an asset

• Motivated self-starter willing to work in a fast paced environment performing repetitive tasks

• Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs and stand for long periods of time

• Ability to work cooperatively in a diverse, team based environment

• Must be reliable, dependable, have excellent communication skills and good attention to detail

• Must have own transportation

✱Afternoon and evening shifts 16-20 hours per week. $11.25 an hour

Interested parties may drop off their resumes between 9am and 5pm at:

GOLDSTREAM PRESS#220-770 Enterprise Avenue, Victoria, BC

V8X 6R4

MEDICAL/DENTAL

MEDICAL Transcriptionists are in huge demand! Train with the leading Medical Tran-scription school. Learn from home and work from home. Call today. 1-800-466-1535 www.canscribe.com. or email: [email protected].

TRADES, TECHNICAL

LICENSED LOG Scaler re-quired. A well-established whole log chipping facility lo-cated in beautiful Kamloops, BC requires a full time certifi ed log scaler to complement our log yard staff. We offer com-petitive wages and a benefi ts package. Applicants applying for this Position must have a Scaler’s Licence. Please email resumes: [email protected] or fax to 250-374-9506.

VOLUNTEERS

THE CANADIAN Breast Can-cer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure is looking for organiz-ing committee members. Roles include fundraising co-ordinator, run day program co-ordinator and volunteer coordi-nator. Call Volunteer Victoria at 250-386-2269.

THE CYCLE of Life Tour is looking for volunteers to assist with the Tour, which takes place on July 25-26. Positions include check in, gear drop off, support vehicle drivers, camp set up and tear down, meal service crew, fi rst aid, bike re-pair, road marshals, etc. Call Volunteer Victoria at 250-386-2269.

THE VICTORIA International Kite Festival would welcome volunteers for the family-fun event, on May 29-31 at beauti-ful Clover Point. Positions in-clude information booth, fi eld marshals, and traffi c directors. Call Volunteer Victoria at 250-386-2269.

PERSONAL SERVICES

MIND BODY & SPIRIT

KRIPALU MASSAGE, Reiki, Acupressure, Chair Massage. I have relaxed clients that have been with me for 5-12 years. See testimonials on website. Women only. Call 250-514-6223 or visit online at: www.andreakober.com

HOLISTIC HEALTH

Trager® Bodywork Gentle, effective & deeply relaxing. Move more freely with less pain and tension.

Hot Stone MassagePenetrating heat from

smooth basalt rocks softens tight muscles, melts tension

Hot Stone Massage with Raindrop Therapy

CranioSacral therapyRae Bilash

Certifi ed PractitionerWomen only, men by referral

250-380-8733www.raebilash.ca

FINANCIAL SERVICES

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB.

1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com

TAX FREE MONEYis available, if you are a homeowner, today! We can easily approve you by phone. 1st, 2nd or 3rd mort-gage money is available right now. Rates start at Prime. Equity counts. We don’t rely on credit, age or income.

Call Anytime1-800-639-2274 or

604-430-1498. Apply online www.capitaldirect.ca

HOME CARE SUPPORT

WESTSIDE MOBILE Footcare For all your footcare needs call 250-727-1935, 250-474-0125.

PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO

RETOUCH, RESTORE, Edit Photos. Home Movies to DVD. Also, Portraiture, Baby, Family + Maternity. 250-475-3332. www.cwpics.com

PETS

PETS

JACK RUSSELL Terriers, 13 weeks old. Born Feb. 8, 2015. High energy dog, loving family friend. $600, 1st shot, de-worming.(250)664-7470

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

FUEL/FIREWOOD

ARBUTUS, CYPRESS, fi r, hardwoods. Seasoned. Call 250-661-7391.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

NEWSPRINT ROLLENDS- $2-$10. Fridays only, 8:30am to 4:30pm. #200-770 Enter-prise Cres, Victoria. Gold-stream Press Division.

SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - Make money & save money with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD: www.NorwoodSaw mills.com/400OT or call 1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT.

STEEL BUILDINGS. “Spring sales with hot savings!” All steel building models and siz-es are now on sale. Get your building deal while it’s hot. Pio-neer Steel 1-800-668-5422 www.pioneersteel.ca.

MISCELLANEOUS WANTED

ANTIQUES, BOOKS, col-lectibles, furniture, china, jew-elry. Estates/private libraries purchased. Galleon Books & Antiques, 250-655-0700.

RENTALS

COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL

DUNCAN. 640 SQ.FT. ware-house space on Trans Canada Hwy. $550 per month +GST. Overhead door, shared wash-room. Located next to retail operations. Avail June 1, call Shannon 250-710-0245.

HOMES FOR RENT

VIC WEST- June 1st. Bright, sunny, 3 bdrm, near ocean. Sunroom, newly reno’d bath, W/D. 5 appls, NS/NP. Refs $1650.+ utils. 250-383-8800.

RENTALS

TOWNHOUSES

LAVENDER CO-OP is accept-ing applications for a quiet, bright 3 bdrm townhouse, W/D hookup, inside/outside stor-age, backyard. $1019/mo. Share purchase $2500. Gross income $45,000 +. Applica-tions available in the glass case outside the Community Hall at 10A-620 Judah St.

TRANSPORTATION

AUTO SERVICES

FREE REMOVAL of all vehi-cles, cash paid for some. Any condition. Call (250)889-5383

CARS

1993 BMW: 3.4 L engine, au-tomatic, Kashmir (beige/gold), 4-disc brakes. Brakes, tire tread still in good shape, re-cent O2 sensor and throttle switch replaced, rear wheel drive, power windows/locks/ sunroof, 2-12” subs and Ken-more amp. 200,000 km, all re-ceipts for work done. Very fun car to drive. $3500 obo. Call 250-812-6008 or email [email protected]

TRANSPORTATION

CARS

We Buy Cars!Scrap Junk

Running or Not!Cars Trucks Vans$50 to $1000FREE TOW AWAY

250-686-3933

SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES

1984 FORD Bronco XLT, only100,000 km on 351W on pro-pane, 10-1 compression, KeithBlack pistons, Comp cam. C6auto completely rebuilt. Havereceipts and specs. Body rustybut drivetrain better than new.Good 31” tires. $3500. CallMonty, 250-216-3408.

MARINE

BOATS

WANTED Red Urchin lease. Also37’ Salmon to lease/buy/trade for C.250-218-9947 [email protected]

CONNECTING BUYERS AND SELLERS

www.bcclassifi ed.com250-388-3535

ALL YOU NEED IN PRINT AND ONLINE

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HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

CARPENTRY

ALL HOME Renovation & Restoration: Kitchens, bath-rooms, decks, additions, re-modeling. We build custom homes. Comm/Res. 35 yrs exp. Call 250-213-7176.

JOURNEYMAN CARPENTER Reduced rates - Sun Decks, Fences and Siding. Call Ward (250)881-0296.

CONCRETE & PLACING

RBC CONCRETE Finishing. All types of concrete work. No job too small. Seniors dis-count. Call 250-386-7007.

DRYWALL

BEAT MY Price! Best work-manship. 38 years experience. Call Mike, 250-475-0542.

ELECTRICAL

250-361-6193 Quality Electric Reno’s, res & comm. No job too small. Lic# 22779.

KENDRA’S ELECTRICAL Company. Res/Com. Lic #86952. Call 250-415-7991.

NORTHERN SUN Electric Comm/Res. $40/hr. Work Guaranteed. Any size job. (250)888-6160. Lic#13981.


FENCING

ALL TYPES of fencing, re-pairs. Reliable, on-time. Free estimates. Call 250-888-8637.

GARDENING

(250)208-8535 WOODCHUCK Lawn care. Comm/Res. Aer-ating, power raking, land-scape design, all planting, riv-er rock & patio stones, Ivy, blackberry & yard clean-up.

DPM SERVICES- lawn & gar-den, seasonal pruning, clean ups, landscape, power wash, etc. 15yrs exp. (250)883-8141.

WILL DO GARDENING etc. $15/hr. Your tools. Reliable. Call (250)383-3995.


GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS

ABBA Exteriors Inc.“Spring Clean-Up Specials”Gutter & Window CleaningConcrete Power Washing

Vinyl Siding CleaningRoof Sweep & De-MossingCarpentry * Yard Cleanup

Handyman RepairsFree Estimates WCB Insured

*Seniors Discounts*(778)433-9275

www.abbaexteriors.ca

(250)889-5794. DIAMOND Dave- window, gutter cleaning, roof-de-moss, gutter guards, power washing. Free estimate

GRAND XTERIOR Cleaning & Repairs- Gutters, roofs win-dows, PW. 250-380-7778.

HANDYPERSONS

BIG BEAR Handyman. Decks, Painting, Repairs. Free estimate. Barry 250-896-6071.

HAULING AND SALVAGE

$20 & Up Garbage & Garden waste removal. Senior Disc. Free estimates. 250-812-2279.

CLEAN-UP SPECIAL. You load bins, size 12 yard $100 plus dump fee or we do it all. Call 250-361-6164.


HAULING AND SALVAGE

GARY’S HAULING. One call does it all. Small demos & yard clean-up. Vehicle & metal recycling. Call (778)966-1413.

HAUL A WAY Junk & garbage removal. Clean & green. Free quotes. Sr disc. 778-350-5050

HAUL-ITYou’ve got the Junk, We’ve got the Trunk! Rob, 250-885-1740.

JUNK BOX- Junk Removal Company. Local guys. Low rates. Call (250)658-3944.

JUNK REMOVAL 7 days / wk.Fast Service, Best Prices!! Free quotes. (250)857-JUNK.

PARRY’S HAULING We haul it all - FREE estimates. Call Wes 250-812-7774.

PETE’S HAUL A DAY- Junk removal. Airforce guy. Call 250-888-1221.

SAVE-A-LOT HAULING Furniture, appliance, garden waste, we take it all! Always lowest rate, senior discount. Brad 250-217-9578.

HOME IMPROVEMENTSRenovations Specialist Car-penter&Sons. decks, fence doors, windows, painting, dry-wall, kitchen, bath, Senior Disc. Lic, Ins. 250-217-8131


HOME IMPROVEMENTS

FULL SERVICE Plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, re-liable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1-800-573-2928.

MASONRY & BRICKWORK

CBS MASONRY BBB. WCB. Chimneys, fi replaces,fl agstone rock, concrete, natural & ve-neered stone. Replace, re-build, restore, renew! Free competitive est. www.cbsma-sonry.com; Call (250)589-9942, (250)294-9942.

& MOVING STORAGE

(250)858-6747. WRIGHT Bros Moving&Hauling.Free estimate $80=(2men&3tontruck)Sr Disc.

(250)889-5794. DIAMOND Dave Moving- Free estimates!

ALLSTAR MOVING Delivery Service. From $59. Free local travel. Call (250)818-2699.

PAINTING

A PROFESSIONAL Woman painter. Karen Bales Painting & Wall coverings. Over 25yrs exp. Free est. 250-514-5220.


PAINTING

✫ DON’S PAINTING ✫(250)479-8748. 30 years exp. Free Est. Quality Interiors.

OLD TIMER. Quality old fash-ioned service. Great rates. Ex-cellent references. Call Al at 250-474-6924, 250-888-7187.

PLUMBING

FREE ESTIMATES. Rea-sonable. Reliable. No job too small. Call 250-388-5544.

PLASTERING

PATCHES,Drywall, skimming, match the textures, coves, fi re-places. Bob, 250-516-5178.

PRESSURE WASHING

DRIVEWAYS, WALKWAYS, Decks, etc. Reasonable rates. 250-744-8588, Norm.

STUCCO/SIDING

PATCHES, ADDITIONS, re-stucco, renos, chimney, water-proofi ng. Bob, 250-516-5178.

THE STUCCOMAN- All types of Stucco/Painting. Repairs, additions, renovations. Free est. Dan, 250-391-9851.


TREE SERVICES

BUDDY’S TREE SERVICES-Trimming, pruning, chipping,removals, hedges. Insured.Call Keith, (250)474-3697.

UPHOLSTERY

UPHOLSTER- Furn. repairs, scratches, fi x springs, marine,commercial. 250-480-9822.

WINDOW CLEANING

ABBA EXTERIORSProfessional gutter cleaning &repairs. Window cleaning. Roof de-mossing. Pkg dis-counts. WCB. (778)433-9275.

BOB’S WINDOW Cleaning.Roof demoss, Gutters. Licensed and affordable. 250-884-7066.

DAVE’S WINDOW Cleaning.Windows, Gutters, Sweeping,Roofs, Roof Demossing, Pres-sure Washing. 250-361-6190.

GRAND XTERIOR Cleaning & Repairs- Gutters, roofs win-dows, PW. 250-380-7778.

250.388.3535

YOUR COMMUNITY, YOUR CLASSIFIEDS

SERVICE DIRECTORYwww.bcclassified.com 250.388.3535


Thursday, May 21Volkssport 5/10 km

walk. Meet at Pearkes Recreation Centre, 3100 Tillicum Rd. Registration 5:45 p.m.; walk 6 p.m.Contact is Karen at 778-426-0379.

Saturday, May 23Volkssport 5/10 km

walk. Meet at Copley Park, Parkridge at Vanalman, Saanich. Registration 9:30 a.m.; walk 10 a.m. Contact is Karen at 778-426-0379.

Victoria’s The Choir will be in concert at Alix Goolden Hall, 907 Pandora Ave. The doors open at 7 p.m. with the show starting at 7:30. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door. Tickets available at Larsen School of Music or online at thechoir.brownpapertickets.com.

Summer Baroque with the Victoria Baroque Players. Church of St John the Divine, 1161 Quadra St., 7:30 p.m. Info: 250-652-0116 or victoria-baroque.com.

Summer Star Parties – Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, 5071 West Saanich Rd., 7:30 to 11 p.m. Tours of the historic Plaskett telescope, astronomy lectures and presentations. Info: victoria.rasc.ca.

Sunday, May 24Bluegrass Mass

- Season Finale at St. Philip Anglican Church - 2928 Eastdowne Rd. The Philipsers lead an inclusive worship with a short reflection and gospel bluegrass and

Americana featuring old hymns, bluegrass standards and even songs from U2, Tom Waits and Lyle Lovett. It all gets rolling at 4 p.m. with a free/by donation meal to follow at 5 p.m. For more info visit stphilipvictoria.ca/worship/bluegrass-mass/ or email [email protected].

Esquimalt Cycling Festival – Archie Browning Sports Centre, 1151 Esquimalt Rd. Info: [email protected].

Tuesday, May 26Volkssport 5/10 km

walk. Meet at Running Room, Broadmead Shopping Centre, 777 Royal Oak Dr. Registration 5:45 p.m.; walk 6 p.m. Contact is Gail at 250-477-4472.

Thursday, May 28Volkssport 5/10 km

walk. Meet at Pearkes Recreation Centre, 3100 Tillicum Rd. Registration 5:45 p.m.; walk 6 p.m.Contact is Karen at 778-426-0379.

Friday. May 29Victoria International

Kite Festival at The Bay Centre and Clover Point. Opening cer-emony at Bay Centre with special indoor kite fly by Connor Doran at noon. Kites with Lights – LED lit kites light up the night sky at Clo-ver Point, 9:30 p.m. The festival continues Saturday and Sunday at Clover Point from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.

Saturday, May 30Volkssport 5/10

km walk. Meet at

Henderson Recreation Centre, 2291 Cedar Hill X Rd. Registration 9:30 a.m.; walk 10 a.m. Contact is Evelyn at 250-370-0153.

Summer Star Parties – Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, 5071 West Saanich Rd., 7:30 to 11 p.m. Tours of the historic Plaskett telescope, astronomy lectures and presentations. Info: victoria.rasc.ca.

Sunday, May 31Volkssport 5/10 km

walk. Meet at Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, 3220 Cedar Hill Rd., Saanich. Registration 9:30 a.m.; walk 10 a.m. Contact is Doug at 250-477-0833.

With Strings Attached – The Linden Singers of Victoria conclude the celebration of their 35th anniversary season with a performance of music for choir and string quartet by internationally known contemporary composers Jeff Enns, Ola Gjeilo and Tobin Stokes. The performance is at 3:30 p.m. at St. Aidan’s United Church, 3703 St Aidans St. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and free for those under 25.

Community Calendar

Youth Now open for nominations

The deadline is looming to nominate Oak Bay youths for the annual Youth Now Awards.

Nominations are open to individuals and groups between 11 and 29 years old who offer extraordinary service to others, act as role models for environmental stewardship, or show exceptional personal accomplishments. There are no age restrictions on categories that recognize professionals who make a difference in the lives of the youth they work with, as well as businesses and organizations who excel at providing youth friendly services.

The achievements of all the nominees will be recognized at the Youth Now Awards Ceremony, to be held on Friday, May 29.

Deadline for nomination is May 22. Visit uwgv.ca online to learn more and to

download the nomination package.

Stage 1 - Water Conservation BylawIn effect May 1 to September 30Lawn watering is permitted two days per week as follows:Even numbered addresses may water Wednesday & Saturday from 4-10 am & 7-10 pmOdd numbered addresses may water Thursday & Sunday from 4-10 am & 7-10 pm

Newly installed lawns (sod or seed) may be watered outside the permitted days detailed above by special permit only.

Watering of trees, flowers, shrubs & vegetable gardens is permitted as follows: Established trees, flowers, shrubs and vegetable gardens may be watered any day and any time if watering is done by a hand-held container, a hose equipped with ashut-off nozzle, or a micro/drip irrigation system.

Established trees, flowers, shrubs and vegetable gardens may be watered with a sprinkler any day from 4-10 am & 7-10 pm.

For further information, please call 250.474.9684 or visit www.crd.bc.ca/water

PROGRAMS START MONTHLYPRFIND YOUR PASSION. FIND YOUR PURPOSE.

> HEALTH CARE ASSISTANT - 7 Months ONLINE BLENDED LEARNING MAY BE AVAILABLE

> PRACTICAL NURSE - 19 Months

> MEDICAL OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR HEALTH UNIT CLERK - 12 Months

> NUTRITIONAL CONSULTANT - 12 Months

VICTORIA: 250.384.8121 OR VISIT SPROTTSHAW.COM

2 2 n d A n n u a l

Dobber Golf ClassicJune 5th – Cedar Hill Golf Course

$110 Entry Fee includes

• Golf• Roast Beef Dinner • Prize for every Golfer Public Welcome! Register at www.gvshof.ca/news

The “Dobber” is held in memory of Ken Dobson, beloved sportscaster with CFAX 1070 and one of the tournament’s founders raising funds to support the work of the Greater Victoria Sports Hall of Fame. Register early as this event typically sells out!

Give them power.Give them confi dence

Give them control.

Call Cindy [email protected]


Coastal access for Canadian oil means an increase

of at least $5 per barrel. By getting full value for

our oil, everyone will benefit. Workers will gain from

the $5.4 billion project. Oil producers will earn more

revenue for their product. And Government will

collect more tax revenue from oil producers to spend

on programs such as health care, education and

other services that benefit all British Columbians.

Plus, we can invest in new training programs and

create new jobs for our youth.

“By accessing world markets for Canadian oil, we’ll enjoy increased tax dollars and years of employment.”

- Deborah Cahill, President, Electrical Contractors Association of B.C.

For more information, go to TransMountain.com/benefit Email: [email protected] · Phone: 1-866-514-6700

Committed to safety since 1953.

Nurses push for new hires at legislature rallyTom FletcherBlack Press

Members of the B.C. Nurses’ Union brought a sea of pink umbrellas to the B.C. legislature last week to call on the B.C. government to honour a provision that requires health authorities to replace absent nurses.

BCNU president Gayle Duteil said the 2012 contract provision replacing absent nurses can’t be implemented without more registered nurses hired to provide the relief.

“It’s a sad fact that we don’t have enough nurses to deliver safe care for meeting the

staffing mandated by our collective agreement,” Duteil said. “We don’t have enough nurses to backfill vacancies, to backfill absences, and we don’t have enough nurses to meet the daily spikes in acuity.”

The recent settlement of 1,600 union grievances for staffing includes $5 million for specialty nurse training, $1 million to support increased RN staffing and $2 million in “grievance settlement funds” paid to nurses affected by staffing shortages. The staffing fund

is available to licensed practical nurses who want to upgrade their training.

Health Minister Terry Lake said the interim agreement is a step towards renewing the latest BCNU contract, which expired in March

2014.“We worked through a mediator in the

last month or so and came to an agreement, so I think we’re in a good place to work towards our new contract,” Lake said.

“We recognize there are some areas

like specialist nursing where we do have challenges, and we have committed some of our funding to recruit and train more specialist nurses, and more community nurses as well.”

Nurses cheered as Duteil reminded them that their “grievalanche” had an effect. She said the union documented 10,000 shifts that were not filled during a six-week period at health facilities around the province, and represent only the “tip of the iceberg.”

NDP leader John Horgan addressed the rally, promising that his 2017 election platform will put nurses “front and centre in the health care model.”

“It’s a sad fact that we don’t have enough nurses to deliver safe care for meeting the staffing mandated by our collective agreement.”

- Gayle Duteil

Documents

Oak Bay News, May 20, 2015