Cowichan Lake’s Lil’s Tea An-Tiques is planning to add a new and different feature to the tea house.
Owner Linda Henry, who opened the business that is located at 56 South Shore Rd. last summer, said she is working to open a barbecue area in a green space beside the tea house with picnic tables in June.
Henry said the menu will include burgers and smokies, among other items, and she’s applying for a liquor licence that would allow the business to sell liquor on specific weekends when she plans to have live music.
She said the barbecue area will operate in conjunction with the tea house.
“We’re still early in the planning process and we’re just now putting together the picnic tables,” Henry said. “More details will be revealed as we go, and we plan on having a soft opening when we’re ready.”
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The Antique Barn, located at the corner of Henry Road and the Trans-Canada Highway in Chemainus for the past 20 years, has closed its doors for the last time after the lease of the building came up for renewal and the rent was set to increase to an amount the owner, Kevin Smith, said was unaffordable.
A message posted to the business’s Facebook page read, “The last couple of weeks have been a very trying time but you have all been amazing. For those that keep asking why we are leaving it wasn't by any means our choice, our lease was up for renewal and the rent was being raised by a massive unjustifiable amount. The Antique Barn/Emporium will continue in a new location. We will make that announcement as soon as we have the details finalized. Thanks again and see you all again soon.”
Bergie’s, the popular food truck run by Lance Bergeron that had long operated outside the Antique Barn, has also relocated.
It can now be found at 9347B Trans-Canada Hwy. in Chemainus, across from the Co-op Gas Station and next to B&H Tire.
The business’s hours and days of operation remain the same.
The future of the iconic red barn on the corner of the TCH remains uncertain at this time.
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Allison Boyd, the deputy corporate officer at the Cowichan Valley Regional District, has received a certificate in local government statutory administration from the province.
The certificate signifies that an individual has demonstrated proficiency in the laws, regulations, and procedures governing local governments in British Columbia. It is often required for specific positions within local governments and helps ensure that individuals understand their legal and administrative responsibilities.
Boyd was presented with her certificate by Kate Segall, chair of the CVRD board, at a recent meeting.
Segall said Boyd’s certificate ensures that the district’s corporate officers have a solid foundation to support the board in local governance.
“It’s also meant to keep people like me on track and do things the right way,” Segall joked. “We’d be completely lost without people like [Boyd].”
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Dean’s Marine Ltd., located on Chaster Road, will be holding its 12th annual Marine Swap N Shop on May 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Swap N Shop is an event where people can purchase a spot to sell various marine-related items, including boats, motors, life jackets, paddleboards, fishing gear, and more.
“This year, we will be donating all proceeds from the spots booked and any 'cash items' sold in store to the St. Johns Ambulance Jr, Brigade,” Deans’s Marine said.
To register for a spot at the Swap N Shop, call 250-748-0829.
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Air Canada is reintroducing its popular non-stop service between Nanaimo Airport and Toronto this summer.
From June 6 to Aug. 30, travellers can enjoy direct flights every Friday and Saturday aboard a modern Boeing 737 MAX 8.
Departing Nanaimo at 11:30 p.m. and arriving back at 10:30 p.m., this route offers stress-free overnight travel that’s perfect for both business and leisure.
“Say goodbye to ferry schedules and hello to hassle-free airport access, short check-ins, and relaxed security lines right from Nanaimo,” Nanaimo Airport said.
“This seasonal service isn’t just a convenience, it’s a boost for our regional economy, strengthening business connections and inviting more visitors to explore the beauty of Vancouver Island. Whether you’re heading to a big city meeting or enjoying a summer getaway, this direct link makes travel smoother than ever.”
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The Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre welcomes Tourism Cowichan back for Tourism Tuesday on May 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Pop by the visitor centre to meet in-person with Kenzie Knight, the tourism development specialist for Tourism Cowichan.
Knight will be available to discuss the range of support and opportunities available to Cowichan tourism stakeholders.
This is an open invitation to any tourism business owner in the region.
The Tourism Cowichan Society supports destination marketing for tourism and hospitality focused businesses operating in the Cowichan region.
Stakeholders can join at no cost and partner with Tourism Cowichan in showcasing Cowichan as a preferred destination for travellers.
You can book a 30-minute time slot with Kenzie in advance by emailing kenzie@tourismcowichan.com, or just pop in for a conversation.
