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Coming up in Cowichan: Nature, pickleball, mental health, and creative anachronism

Cowichan to host BC Nature Federation conference
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There’s a beginner’s clinic in Crofton on May 5, if you’ve ever wanted to try pickleball. (Citizen file)

Cowichan to host BC Nature Federation conference

This weekend, May 2-5, BC Nature, the Federation of BC Naturalists, is holding its conference and annual general meeting in Duncan at the Ramada Inn.

The Cowichan Valley Naturalists Society is hosting “Nature in Quw’utsun – the Warm Land” for about 160 delegates from local nature groups across the province. Members will be attending talks and walks in the Cowichan Valley to view some of the many wonderful things that surround us here. The event is also special because it marks the 50th anniversary of BC Nature.

“So in our restaurants and businesses, and on the trails, let’s all give them a “warm” welcome to this beautiful part of the province we call home,” say organizers.

Cowichan Branch marking Mental Health Week

The Canadian Mental Health Association Cowichan Branch is celebrating Mental Health Week from May 6-12 with a series of open houses, a grand opening and a community barbecue.

“CMHA-CVB will be using the week to highlight services and increase public understanding of our community programs,” says a notice of the events. “We invite the community to come in, meet our caring staff and learn more about what we do.”

On Monday, May 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. there is an open house at BikeWorks/Artworks at 51 Trunk Rd., with a site tour, art show and light refreshments.

On Wednesday, May 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. there is an open house at Duncan’s Overdose Prevention Site, 221 Trunk Rd., with site tours, light refreshments, and free naloxone training with a Narcan kit for those interested.

On Friday, May 10, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. there will be a grand opening at the Open Door Youth Services Centre, 371 Festubert St., with a cake cutting with MLA Sonia Furstenau.

On Saturday May 11, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. CMHA is hosting a community barbecue with the Youth Advisory Group at the Open Door Youth Services Centre with hot dogs, hamburgers, music and more.

Finally, on Sunday, May 12, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. there will be an open house at Warmland Shelter, 2579 Lewis St., with shelter and garden tours, burgers and cake. There will once again be free naloxone training with a Narcan kit for anyone interested.

For more information email annemarie.thornton@cmha.bc.ca

Society for Creative Anachronism event Saturday

On Saturday, May 4, the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) invites everyone to step back into the Middle Ages at Somenos Community Hall.

At this newcomer’s event, visitors will be invited to try their hand at various medieval activities, watch rapier and armoured combat, and dance around the maypole! A soup concession will cater to the hungry.

Doors open at 10 a.m., and entrance is by donation. Those wishing to participate in the potluck dinner are encouraged to wear an attempt at medieval garb (a limited amount of loaner clothing will be available). Doors close at 9 p.m.

“We hope you will join us!” say organizers.

Beginners invited to try out pickleball in Crofton

Everyone is invited to check out the new pickleball courts in Crofton at a beginner’s clinic on Sunday, May 5.

From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. head to the courts located behind the Crofton Community Centre (8104 Musgrave St.) to learn some of the basics of the game and hit a few balls with members of the Vancouver Island Pickleball Association.

Cost is $20. Paddles and balls will be supplied. Wear appropriate footwear. Sign up at www.vipa.ca/clinics or get more information at info@vipa.ca.