The Sunshine Coast New Comers Club meets regularly on the second Tuesday of the month at the Sunshine Coast Golf and Country Club in Roberts Creek, starting at noon. For more information about this social group for new residents, see the website at sun-cst-nc.webs.com, or contact Lise at 778-458-2205 or Holly at 604-885-3898.
Deer Crossing the Art Farm is looking for volunteers to help with this year's Synchronicity Festival Aug. 22 to 24. All volunteers receive free meals during the festival and a free ticket to the circus, as well as an invitation to the wrap-up party.
Please sign up via the festival volunteer link at http://www.synchronicityfestival.ca/volunteers/ or contact Miyuki Shinkai at 604-886-0202 or [email protected] for more details.
A reminder to all about the dangers of giant hogweed an invasive plant that has been found growing in Maple Park in Langdale and along Marine Drive in Hopkins Landing. The sap of heracleum mantegazzianum, also commonly known as giant hogweed or cow parsley, causes phytophotodermatitis, resulting in blisters, long-lasting scars, and — if it comes in contact with eyes — blindness.
The best cure is prevention, so take a moment to educate yourself and your family about this toxic weed. One excellent resource is the website for the French Creek Giant Hogweed Project, http://frenchcreekhogweed.ca/.
Because the stalks are tall, straight and hollow, they appeal to children looking to make a pea shooter or a pretend telescope.
When skin comes in contact with the plant's sap and is then exposed to sunlight or to ultraviolet rays, it becomes inflamed. Initially, the skin turns red and starts itching. Then blisters form as it burns within 48 hours. They form black or purplish scars that can last several years. Presence of minute amounts of sap in the eyes can lead to temporary or even permanent blindness.
If you'd like me to mention your event in an upcoming column, please email the details to [email protected] or call 604-886-0415.
This column is published every other week throughout the year.
