August 2015 vol 11 issue 08
Serving Vancouver Island & the Gulf Islands
MAGAZINE
Craig Heritage Park: Farmers’ Market • 7 What would you save if ...? • 10 John Beaton’s: “Strathcona” • 19
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Barbara J. Burns, M.A. Notary Public
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Once a month on the Second Sunday of every month from 8am ‘til noon, it’s been a long-standing Qualicum Bay tradition to check out the Market and have breakfast with neighbours and community!
YOU’RE INVITED! Lighthouse Community Centre, 240 Lions Way in Qualicum Bay Artisans, Crafters and Farmers Wanted! Join the Market Rent your table & chair for $10/month pre-paid secondsundaymarket@gmail.com • www.communityhall.ca
778-424-9900
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FEATURES
5 Editorial 7 Craig Heritage Park & Museum Farmers’ Market 10 What would you save if ... ?
FOOD, ENTERTAINMENT, OUTDOORS
12 14 15 18 19
Salish Sea Culinary Guild: Celebrating & Savouring Tide Table Janetta Begg: A Passion for Scottish Country Dancing Top Bridge: Up and Over the Englishman River Poet’s Corner: John Beaton’s “Strathcona”
COMMUNITY LIFE 21 Inspired by Community
BACK-TO-SCHOOL SPECIAL
THE REGULARS 8 17 20 2 2-23
In the Stars: Georgia Nicols Horoscope Classifieds Community Events At Your Service - Local Services & Trades
Articles and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and published for general information purposes only. Articles are not intended to provide specific advice - the publisher will assume no liability.
Fun with Peek-a-Boo Foils Striking fashion colours for back-to-school girls. One or more highlights ... $3.00-4.00 per foil.
Articles and/or data may not be quoted or reproduced, in part or in whole, without permission from the publisher. Freelance writers & photographers Queries can be directed to Linda Tenney, Publisher at info@eyesonbc.com
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© EyesOnBC Publishing M A G A Z I N E
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EDITORIAL by Linda Tenney
MAGAZINE
August 2015 vol 11 No 8
EyesOnBC Magazine is published monthly Showcasing our community since 2004 Main Email: info@eyesonbc.com Phone: 250-757-9914 Mailing Address EyesOnBC Magazine, Box 182, Bowser, BC V0R 1G0 Hours: Mon - Thu 10-4 Our Contributors this month: David Morrison, Georgia Nicols, Joanne Sales, Terri Bowen, Kim Young, Linda Tenney, John Beaton On the Internet www.eyesonbc.com & www.facebook.com/eyesonbc For Advertising Options Call 250-757-9914 to inquire or visit www.eyesonbc.com/advertise to request ad rates. VISA & MasterCard accepted Printed on Vancouver Island, BC
Cover Photo: “Float at Fanny Bay” ~ Linda Tenney
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his month we explore the ‘Shop and Learn’ experience of the Craig Heritage Park & Museum Farmers’ Market with David Morrison (p. 7), then we pause to ponder our reaction to an emergency evacuation order with Joanne Sales (p. 10), and we put on our dancing shoes to learn a little about Scottish Country Dancing from Qualicum Beach’s Janetta Begg (p. 15), and finally we take a walk on the wild side with Kim Young who recently explored the natural wonders of Top Bridge Regional Trail in Parksville (p 18). It’s an eclectic group of articles that I’m sure will keep you reading from start to finish. I must admit that after reading Joanne Sales’ article (“What would you save if ...? p.10), I did sit down to think about what I would grab in an emergency evacuation situation, if only a minute or two stood between me and safety. I quickly accepted that some things would have to be left behind as I scrambled to get my two most precious things away to safety ... my dog and cat, Chika and Chloe. Sure, if I had time, I’d grab my purse and throw some clothes and important papers into a bag. But everything would be secondary to saving my two pals. But let’s hope it never comes to that! Please continue to be careful during this dry and extreme-rated fire season!
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David Morrison photos
Craig Heritage Park & Museum Farmers’ Market
Shop & Learn! By David Morrison
rich cultural landscape and, indeed, fascinating history will never be lost on me. And with my relocation has come a totally new way of life, one in which a tangible sense of community has seen me rediscover the vital importance of supporting independent concerns. While to Islanders in smaller communities such an attitude may seem like a no-brainer, this manner of conducting oneself in daily life can be so easily forgotten somewhere like the hectic-paced, large British city whence I came.
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s every reader will know, a great many Vancouver Island street names, parks, facilities, topographical features and much more were named for the pioneers, civic leaders and preeminent figures of early European settlement. I live on Craig Street in Nanaimo, one location I presume was named after James Craig (1863-1946), a man who made a substantial contribution to the emergent Oceanside area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Craig and his family’s local history is beautifully presented for a largely hands-on experience at the Craig Heritage Park & Museum (1245 E. Island Highway).
Imagine my joy, then, to encounter a situation where I can learn more about the area’s bygone days whilst spending money on local goods and produce. I am referring to time spent at the lovely farmers’ market held on Friday evenings at the Craig Heritage Park & Museum. Now into its second year, the market is a wonderful idea that the whole family can participate
Since moving to Canada a little under nine years ago I have spent hundreds of greatly rewarding hours exploring my new island home. Its beauty, wildlife, unique atmosphere, •
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in, all bases covered. With all the will in the world, kids will get bored and restless when out shopping with parents, but with so many distractions as the (mainly outdoor) museum provides in terms of learning and entertainment, everyone is happy! What’s more, the usual museum admission costs are waived when the market is held. I recently spoke with David Haynes, Vice President of the Parksville Museum & Archives, and one of the pivotal figures in bringing this (presumably) unique concept to fruition. “It all began serendipitously,” Haynes explains. “One of the members of the Executive of the museum sent me an article stating there was a waiting list for the farmers’ market, so I suggested we should have one (at the museum). It took off immediately and ‘avalanched’ from that moment. From inception to launch, including a few minor obstacles continued on page 16
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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN AUGUST!
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CLOSED MONDAYS
Aries (March 21-April 19) Expect a fantastic month ahead, because the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Jupiter are all helping your life to be pleasant and easy-going. You might want to kick back and relax and do nothing. However, why miss this creative potential, which is enormous for you? Your self-confidence is strong! Explore the arts, crafts, sports, playful times with children, the theatre plus parties and social entertainment. Find a fun hat to go with your shades! Taurus (April 20-May 20) You’ve been aware that this is a fabulous year for real-estate opportunities; and a chance to improve your home and family scene. Well, this month intensifies this already existing, favourable influence. Now your focus will strongly switch to home, family, your private life, and perhaps, a stronger interaction with a parent. Enjoy redecorating and refurbishing your home. Caution about coming on too strong with others. Lighten up and enjoy your surroundings. Gemini (May 21-June 20) You’ve been busy with social interactions. Many of you are reading and writing more than usual, as well. Nevertheless, as impossible as this sounds; this month, your life will get even busier and more fast-paced! (Gasp.) This is because you have something you want to say to others. Basically, you want to enlighten someone. (Don’t leave home without your soapbox.) This means you will be more aggressive about socializing with people because you want to reach out to them. Motivation makes a difference. Cancer (June 21-July 22) Your focus on money, cash flow, possessions and assets is strong and getting stronger this month! You want to boost your earnings or get a better job. You might also want to spend big. You need enough money for shelter, food and your exorbitant cell phone bill; but wise teachers have said that the more money and power you have –
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the more problems you have. So somewhere in the middle is the perfect balance. Have you ever wondered where that balance is? What makes you happy? Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) This month the Sun, Mercury, Venus, Mars and Jupiter are all in Leo. This means pleasure, parties, sports and playful times with children for the rest of the summer. Naturally, this makes you more sociable, friendly and romantic. This is also the last run of Jupiter in Leo until 2026, so enjoy it. This is rare to have such a celestial focus on your sign. Make the most of it. Go after what you want with firm intention and positive expectations. If not now, then when? When you’ve got it, baby, flaunt it! Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) A lot is going on behind the scenes, which is why you want to cocoon. Actually this is a good thing because this is the perfect month to think about what you want your new “personal” year to be all about. How do you want your new year to be different? Despite your impulse to be lowkey, fiery Mars is stirring up energy with friends and groups. Mars will help you to excel in competitive, physical sports, as well as come out on top in group negotiations. “Virgo rules!” Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Your popularity is strong and getting stronger. August is the perfect time for interaction with others, especially with friends and groups. Younger people, artistic people, and people in authority all want to talk to you. Meanwhile, this is a good time to actively pursue your goals, assuming you have defined them. If not, what are your goals? Use this month to share your hopes and dreams for the future with others to get their feedback. “I want a pony and I want to be a ballerina.” Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Woo hoo! This month the Sun is at the top of your chart, which is the only time all year this happens. When it occurs, people not only notice you more, they admire you because the light flatters you. Use this to your advantage! Make your pitch to your boss or ask for permission for something. Some of you will begin a romance with your boss or an authority figure. Continue to pursue avenues in travel, publishing, the media, medicine and the law. Lookin’ good!
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) This month, opportunities to travel and explore new avenues in publishing, the media, medicine and the law exist in abundance. Get outta town if you can. (And you can.) In addition, your gonads are in overdrive, and you’re pumped with sexual energy, as well as competitive energy about shared property, inheritances and insurance issues. Look for opportunities to travel for pleasure. This month is also an excellent time to study, if study is important in your life. (Can you spell onomatopoeia?) Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Mars has been opposite your sign since June 25, creating problems with friends and partners. (Lord knows you’ve tried but what can you do when others are impossible?) Fortunately, the universe is generous to you now and will continue being generous in the next four weeks. This is why gifts, goodies and favours from others are flowing your way! This is the perfect time to ask for a loan or get a mortgage. Make the most of this good luck. Ka-ching! Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) This month the Sun is 180° opposite your sign, intensifying your focus on friends and partners. However, since the Sun is your source of energy, and it is now as far away from you as it gets all year, you will need more sleep. Go to bed. Seriously, recognize your need for power naps and such to get through this month because you are pumped to work hard now. This month also offers you a rare chance to observe your style of relating to others. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) This month you have a strong focus on your health and your work. You want to make your work surroundings more attractive; and many of you will continue to boost your earnings. You will be more handson in your job and full of new, clever ideas. It’s important to line your ducks up in a row now because an important career peak is just months away. But life is not all work and no play. Au contraire! Fiery Mars starts this month with competitive sports and sexy love affairs! Party on!
FOR ALL YOUR TRANSPORTATION AND DELIVERY NEEDS
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778-424-4248
Serving Lighthouse Country
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WHAT WOULD YOU SAVE IF ...? by Joanne Sales
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had to evacuate my house once. I lived near Washington, D.C. in June 1972, when Hurricane Agnes blasted a pathway of destruction all the way up the East Coast. We lived beside a creek in the hundredth year on a hundred-year flood plain. In the evening, people were pushing floating cars along the road through flood waters in a frantic attempt to get home. Later, the water covered the bridge and we were told the dam upstream might break. Evacuate! We surrendered. My mother, husband and I walked through thigh-high water to safety, leaving everything behind. My husband carried a guitar over his head. I carried a box of writing. That was it. There is a certain rush of energy we get when Mother Nature shows her power. This adrenalin rush is meant to save our lives – to give us energy and strength to evacuate and get to safety. With that rush of energy, I walked for hours in the driving rain. I was figuratively swept away by the excitement of Mother Nature. Our VW bus was literally swept away, and we found it lying on its side in a soggy field. I DON’T THINK any of us felt that adrenalin rush when we woke up Sunday morning, July 5, to find everything in our world was now a smoky, dull yellow. My granddaughter called out, “Grandma, what happened to the sky? Why is the
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moon out?” Of course, it wasn’t the moon; the sun appeared as a dull disk behind the thick smoke. We could stare right at it. 180 fires were burning in BC. We were told to go inside – but I could clearly see smoke in our kitchen. Where was there to go?
says that she regrets that she didn’t save the simple things – like her favorite wooden spoon. But everyone agreed that most important was to get ourselves and our loved ones – all living beings – to safety. “Life and limb.”
The smoke cleared away over days. But on July 9, I smelled fresh smoke. Close smoke. Less than 3 km from our home, along the railroad track in Coombs, there was a new wildfire. Soon we heard the fire trucks and helicopters. It was then I started to ask, “If you had to evacuate your house, what would you take with you?”
Someone discussing this question commented that we are the most spoiled culture since the Roman Empire. Most of us are living like kings, compared even to our most recent ancestors. Our expectations of comfort is off the charts. Most of us are prisoners of our comfort zones – including me. We can do with less, and still do well.
What’s worth keeping? What can I not live without? If you had 5 minutes to gather what you value the most, what would it be? It is a Rorschach test.
In the 80s, I lived beside a housing project where many Southeast Asian refugees were relocating. One day, a man asked me in very bad English to go find his brother who just arrived. No address - just downtown Washington, D.C.! How was I supposed to just go downtown and find his brother? Nevertheless, I put my paralyzed mother into the front seat, the Cambodian man in the back, and took off. We visited several hot very crowded apartments with exhausted refugees sitting, waiting, sleeping, waiting. Miraculously, we found his brother, and miraculously, he spoke incredible English!
Resources like the Red Cross tell us to grab important papers, a map, cash, house keys, phone numbers, and small items which would be useful in a shelter like a spare blanket, a flashlight and radio, pen and paper, playing cards etc. Something to purify water. On a more personal level, people’s responses to “what to save” included these things: legal documents, comfort items, things with historical / emotional significance, creative work, and valuables. Photos, writing, letters, books. My list includes my favorite blanket, a book, a blessed necklace. A woman whose house did burn down
I became intricately involved in their lives. Once I moved a family into a more spacious apartment – meaning CONTINUED NEXT PAGE
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continued from page 10
that there would be only two families in their one bedroom. The little boy had only one toy - a half deflated blowup rabbit. But they were so happy. That night they had food and a place to stretch out full length on the floor, in total safety. Once I drove a Viet Namese family to the airport. The grandmother had one possession – a large, old, heavy pair of metal scissors from Viet Nam. In that one pair of scissors, she connected to seven decades of her past life in Viet Nam. It was her most important possession. The airlines wanted to take it from her. I argued on her behalf. Eventually, she was allowed to carry on her scissors. (This was before 9-11.) I find these memories important when I get overly attached to my possessions. What would our pair of scissors be? What is our half deflated blowup rabbit? What would connect us to the past that we want to remember, and the part of our identity that we want to hold on to? On the other hand, what can we live without? We moved away from the house beside the housing project, after having lived there most of 42 years. Shortly after, it burned down. (We think it committed suicide.) I was able to visit it a few times after it burned to the ground. I was surprised by how small the footprint was. All of that living, growing, loss and memories took place in such a small space? I felt privileged to have seen its footprint. We benefit from going to the “footprint” of all the things we are attached to – to revisit the foundation of things, and to look at the space it occupies. Actually, we go back to ground level every day. It’s called going to sleep. Our houses are filled with stuff and our days are filled with activity. But when we go to sleep, we clean the slate, erase the board, go back to the footprint of our lives. When we open our eyes, we start the game over.
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We know sleep helps us. It detaches us just enough. We tell ourselves, “I’m going to sleep on it.” A Russian proverb says, “Morning is much wiser than evening,” We intentionally get closer to the foundation of our life whenever we access the invisible and unformed, by contemplation, introspection, meditation, or quietness in whatever way we are able to find it. These are all ways to “evacuate the house” without going anywhere, but our priorities shift the more time we spend away and unburdened. But “things” are not the only things in our lives. I started looking at everything asking the same question, “To keep or not to keep?” I found all sorts of mental attitudes, anxieties, memories, and thought patterns that I would gladly throw into the closest wildfire. And if they showed up again, I would toss them in again. Unfortunately when I walk around the farm, I have to take a serious look at the plants. We have a shallow well and can’t water everything. There are no signs of generous rain coming soon. Which plants will I save? It’s a sad, difficult situation, but honest. Is this a keeper – or do we have to let it go? Most of what we have gathered – in the material world and in our identity – is disposable. It could go, and it will go, and we will remain, relatively unchanged. But do we want to remain unchanged? Our current situation, this disastrous drought, should tell us one thing – we need to change – and we want to change. In truth, we have no choice but to change!
KOMBUCHA
Make Your Own Kombucha Workshops offered in Coombs by Joanne Sales who has been making Kombucha for over 20 years. joanne@glasswing. com, www.islandhealing.ca
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Everything arises from causes and conditions (to borrow the Buddhist term). This drought did not happen by accident. The changing weather patterns are a result of our actions, behavior, our big houses full of knick-knacks, and our strange identity symbols. We have to change our living style to fit the size of the planet – and “it’s a small world after all.” We definitely have to get control of the greed factor that is decimating the planet. Gandhi said, “The Earth has enough for everyone’s need, but not for everyone’s greed.” Once Gandhi and a friend were on a boat. The friend was deeply attached to his binoculars, but wanted the level of spiritual freedom that he witnessed in Gandhi. Somewhere in the conversation, the man got the courage to throw his beloved binoculars overboard. No, owning binoculars is not evil. Sure, he could have given the binoculars away. But his action was symbolic, and he had to seize the moment of freedom. I am not my binoculars! A woman whose house actually burned down looked on the bright side. “At least I will never have to clean out my attic.” I hope that all of us DO have to clean out our own attics! But I also hope that you and I find in these times the courage to let go of those things that are limiting and tiring us, mentally, emotionally and physically – individually and collectively. And I hope that we as a society have the wisdom to save what is valuable, in our lives, rivers, land, forests and everywhere on our small planet. In the scale of things, we only have 5 minutes. Starting now. ~ Joanne Sales is a freelance writer, blueberry farmer living in rural Qualicum Beach, and Director of Vancouver Island’s Broombusters Invasive Plant Society. Questions about her articles should be directed to joanne@glasswing.com. For information or questions regarding Broombusters Invasive Plant Society - www.broombusters.org. Ph: 250-7524816, Email: info@broombusters.org
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SALISH SEA CULINARY GUILD
Celebrating and Savouring Locally Sourced Food
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he Salish Sea Culinary Guild is a casual group of ‘foodies’ who love food and whole-heartedly support farmers, fishers, and producers of the Vancouver Island ingredients they prefer to use. Simple! Members of the Guild meet throughout the year to showcase and celebrate Vancouver Island bounty. “Our dinners are for fun, sharing and learning! We usually gather at a member’s house, and before sitting down to enjoy dinner, we each describe the dish we’ve brought to share; its ingredients and where we got them. It’s a ‘take-away’ for our members and guests,” says Lorraine Browne, a founder of the Guild. “Each dish shared must contain at least 80% locally-sourced products, and we’re blessed to live where that requirement is so easy to fulfill.” You’re invited! Join Salish Sea Culinary Guild members for a “Farm to Table” pot-luck at Nanoose Edibles Farm, hosted by Barbara and Lorne Ebell on Sunday August 30th, starting at 2pm. Bring a dish to share, plus your own cutlery, plate, and comfy chair. Remember, whatever you bring, the ingredients must be at least 80% locally sourced. Think Buffalo Bocconcini from Natural Pastures, made with milk from Buffalos raised right here on Vancouver Island. Then think seafood from the docks at French Creek. Our Salish Sea is home to Salmon, Spot Prawns, Oysters, Clams, Halibut ... and a variety of seaweeds that can be used as seasoning. And lets not forget gardenfresh produce like Kale, Butter Lettuce, Summer Squash, and Cucumber from our farms and farmers’ markets. The possibilities are endless! Planning to attend? RSVP Barbara Ebell at neorg@telus.net or Lorraine Browne at brownelorraine@shaw.ca. Want to become a member ... look for the Guild at the 102nd Coombs Fair on August 8th, as part of the ‘Farmers Feed Folks’ event, or search Facebook for “Salish Sea Culinary Guild” for updates and information.
FARM GATE PICKS
NANOOSE EDIBLES FARM
Famous for its salad greens, nutritional greens, collards, kale, chard, seasonal berries, tomatoes, beans, eggs and much more. Other locally sourced products also available. 1960 Stewart Rd, Nanoose Bay Open 7 days - 10am-5pm
GOOD NATURE FARMS
Some of the best organic blueberries on Vancouver Island, farm-fresh vegetables, and free-range eggs from happy hens. 2795 Grafton Ave, Qualicum Beach Hours: call ahead 250-752-4816
PINERIDGE FARM MARKET
Farm-fresh produce, berries, eggs, and a variety of other locally-sourced products. Look for Katie’s, Pete’s Mountain Meats, Vancouver Island Grains, and more. 2715 Turnbull - off Spider Lake Rd. Open 7 days - 9am-8pm
Raintree Studio & Gallery
THERE’S MORE ONLINE!
A rural setting for a unique art gallery featuring Greg Swainson’s watercolours and 10 local artists.
EyesOnBC Magazine
All original artwork, paintings, jewellery, sculptures, pottery, wood work and floral arrangements.
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Gallery Hours: Thursdays to Sundays • Noon to 5pm May 1st to the end of September 5101 Island Hwy W., Qualicum Beach www.raintreestudio.ca • 250-594-3786 •
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Our tide table measurements are taken from the Hornby Island substation. For other tides, visit http://www.waterlevels.gc.ca/english/Canada.shtml on the Internet. Printed courtesy Canadian Hydrographic Service. ADD 1 hour to times until Sunday, November, 1, 2015
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AUGUST 2015
HUMANS OF OCEANSIDE
A PASSION FOR SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING Society in 1952. An estimated 15,000 Society members from all over the world now help to preserve this traditional style of dance.
by Linda Tenney
“I
was first introduced to Scottish Country Dancing in my early years at secondary school in Glasgow,” Janetta Begg tells me. “It appealed to me because I was very shy and didn’t like to “My husband David and I emigrated from Scotland to Qualicum Beach in be too close to my dance partner.” 1990 to be closer to our family. And Scottish Country Dancing is a social within a few short weeks I joined the dance where four ladies face four men Nanoose Scottish Country Dancers in a set, with some of the dances first who regularly met in the Nanoose choreographed in the 1700’s. Library Hall. That wasn’t enough for me though, so I joined the Nanaimo Scottish “In 1950, my last year at Jordanhill Country Dancers, and eventually started Teachers’ Training College in Glasgow, I my own club in Qualicum Beach, decided to get my Teacher’s Certificate. including a class for children ages four The famous Glaswegian dance to eight. They were such fun and I loved instructor, Jean Milligan, was the head teaching them! The Qualicum Beach of the College’s Physical Education club was wonderful, and we laughed as Department and after studies were much as we danced.” done for the day, she would train those of us who were interested in Scottish At 86 years young, Janetta has decided Country Dance. From then on, my love to hang up her ‘teaching’ dancing shoes of the dance grew and I found myself this year. “I think it’s time I made room teaching kids at youth clubs, teens at for the younger teachers who are doing the YWCA, and later adults. I have such such a great job,” she says. fond memories from so many years of teaching dance to lovely groups of With sincere admiration, her dance people.” students and fellow teachers recently gifted Janetta a beautiful silver bracelet The Scottish Country Dance Society crafted by local Native jewellery artist was founded in 1923 by Jean Milligan Leanne Helin. “I just love it,” Janetta and Ysobel Stewart of Fasnacloich. The beams. “It’s a treasure.” Society was renamed the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society by King George VI in 1951 prior to his death, and Queen Janetta herself is a gift to the Scottish Country Dancing community ... and the Elizabeth II became a patron of the
Janetta Begg spirit of the dance lives on in the hearts of those she taught over six decades. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my association with the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society, as a pupil and a teacher, but it’s time for me to retire,” says Janetta. ~ Janetta may be retired, but it’s not likely she’ll stop dancing! Humans of Oceanside is a new series that celebrates the people of our community.
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continued from page 7 to overcome, was about three weeks. It was lickety-split, boom-boom-boom!” The market is a truly lovely experience, with a wide variety of vendors scattered amongst the cluster of heritage buildings that were assembled on the site in the early 1980s. The way in which it is laid out promotes leisurely meandering, so one can perhaps pick up some fresh vegetables or pastries here, then take a look inside a centuryplus old post office over there. The site is picturesque and quite small, yet on market days contains a deceptive amount that can easily occupy the three open hours (5:00 pm-8:00 pm) in respect of shopping and interesting exhibits.
shopping cart and invited those vendors from other local farmers’ markets I’d attended that were held on different days and, lo and behold, most of them showed up!”
utterly charming. I will not spoil it for you by revealing more, as the joy of any museum or historical site is the thrill of discovery. Haynes has been amazed and overjoyed at how the concept of markets at the museum has been greeted by the community. “My expectation was that we would have 200 to 250 people,” he says, “but on our first night each year there has been around 1,000. There definitely seems to be a ‘come, buy your stuff, and hang around awhile,’ mentality at our market, whereas because ours is at an open museum - other markets do not have that aspect to them. A lot of people come and it’s their Friday night ‘date.’ We have food, wine, music, events going on, things for people to look at and talk about; people meet friends here, so it’s a charming place to visit, with the feel of a village. We seem to have a core group of around 600 people, but when tourism kicks in and school’s out we expect that number to rise by 300 to 400 people.”
Consequently, although it may differ slightly each week, there are vendors selling farm-fresh vegetables and fruits; meats and sausages; baked goods, desserts, confectionery and breads; skincare and health products; flowers, fresh pasta, art and…oh, a whole lot more. It is an unusual sight at such a market, but due to the recent changes in B.C. liquor laws there is also wine, beer and spirits on sale. Visitors can even have a delicious dinner at the market, with such as wood-fired pizza and freshly cooked samosas available.
The museum itself really is something to behold. Antique agricultural and logging machinery, crucial to establishing the early settlement that ultimately became Parksville, and the remarkably preserved and maintained buildings provide a fascinating portal into life in this region well over a century ago. James Craig was one of the very earliest settlers here, a central figure making his name as a man of many invaluable skills. For starters he was a farmer, road builder, and noted cougar bounty hunter, earning the Our family has proudly nickname “Cougar served the Oceanside Craig” for his efforts.
Concerning the vendors, from the outset Haynes had definite ideas for the ideal market, saying: “In my head I had a virtual shopping cart, which I wanted to turn into a ‘concrete’ shopping cart. So, I wanted this vendor because they have sausages, this one because they have eggs, this vendor because they had greens, and so on. I went through my
communities since 1998. We believe in providing the highest level of service in a professional and affordable manner, without compromising our commitment to reliable and respectful service to our families.
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One knock-on effect of the market’s success is the way visitors have responded to where it is held, a consequence that, as someone so engaged with conserving local history, Haynes is delighted about. “In doing this, the museum has also hugely benefitted,” he says. “We’ve raised our membership six-fold, increasing our coffers three- or fourfold. It’s really good, as one of the main purposes of this whole idea is to get people into the museum to see what’s going on, but the farmers’ market is a wonderful spinoff.“
When visiting the market, besides supporting the independent businesses vending their wares, be sure to thoroughly explore the museum. The beautiful Knox Heritage Church, originally opened in 1912 and still used, is a sheer delight. The Craig Cottage, tiny Montrose School and two separate post offices are also
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Due to the positive response to the Friday farmers’ market, which will run until October 9, the museum is also hosting an Artisans’ Market on Sunday afternoons (1:00-5:00 pm), until August 30. Haynes is also formulating plans for an inventors’ – or ‘makers’’ – market, to be launched next year, so it’s all go at the Craig Heritage Park & Museum. In a place where so much pioneer history is gathered, it seems pioneers of a very different kind are creating a little local history of their own! The Craig Heritage Park & Museum Farmers’ Market runs every Friday from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For further information please visit parksvillemuseum. ca or telephone (250) 248 6966. •
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SERVICES OFFERED / NEEDED
WORSHIP
FIRST RATE MASONARY – Over 15 years experience providing first-rate, creative workmanship within budget and on time! Old brick restoration. All stone and tile work. Fireplace facing. Retaining walls and pavers. Chimney construction, cleaning and repairs. FMI Call Jason Buxton (250) 802-5515. THE FIX-IT SHOP – Repairs to all makes and models of lawnmowers and ride on lawn tractors, including John Deere. Pick-up and delivery available. Used equipment for sale. Call (250) 702-2191 or email fixitshop009@gmail.com
HELP WANTED CAREGIVER NEEDED - Looking for a caregiver for our 2 children (1 & 5 yrs old) - $11/hr, 40 hrs/week, optional free accommodation in employer’s home. Large dog at house. Call for details: 250-240-8119.
Parksville / Qualicum / Bowser PICK-UP, TUNE-UP AND CLEAN-UP FOR SMALL ENGINE POWERED EQUIPMENT. Riding mowers, garden tractors, etc. Call Ron at (250) 937-0044 or email ronmorrison100@gmail.com
HEALTHY LIVING
FOOTCARE – HYGIENE Soaking feet, cutting nails, filing calluses, treating dry skin – fingernails, too. Reflexology - one-hour sessions. Services offered from Nanoose to Courtenay. Please call Vikki at (250) 757-9244. U CALL - I HAUL - You got it? I haul it! Yard waste. Appliances. Construction debris. Miscellaneous junk removal. Small furniture moves, too. 8-years experience. Call Ron for all your hauling needs. 250-757-2094 or 250-947-0572
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WILDWOOD COMMUNITY CHURCH 113 McColl Road, Bowser
Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 am 757-8136
ISLAND GOSPEL CENTRE “A house of LIGHT in Lighthouse Country” Sundays - 10AM Worship
DON’S HOME REPAIR – Plumbing repairs and installations, complete renovations, no job too small. Call Don at (250) 757-8757 or cell (250) 951-8757.
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ANTIQUES - expert appraisal services for insurance, probate, downsizing and dispersal. We also buy antiques. Summer sale now on - 20-50% off. Mildred’s Memorabilia. ph. 250-752-1700 3215 Brooklin Lane, Hilliers. (located on Hilliers Road South, (off Hwy 4) 6km west of Qualicum Beach) www.rosewell.ca open Thurs - Sun 11-5. All other times by chance or appointment- please phone ahead.
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KOMBUCHA - Make Your Own Kombucha Workshops offered in Coombs by Joanne Sales who has been making Kombucha for over 20 years. joanne@glasswing. com, www. islandhealing.ca
90 McColl Road, Bowser, BC (250) 757-8253
LEARNING / CLASSES NELSON'S MUSIC STUDIO Piano/Theory Lessons Parksville/Qualicum Area Beginners to Advanced Your Home or Ours John/Margaret 250-954-5895
FOR RENT LARGE RV SITES FOR RENT close to Spider Lake. Farm market open 7-days a week, May 9th to September. Power, sewer and water connection. 250-619-8047. www.pineridgefarm.ca
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Available for Rentals Call 778-424-9900
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Kim Young photos
TOP BRIDGE REGIONAL TRAIL UP AND OVER THE ENGLISHMAN RIVER DISTANCE & DIRECTIONS RESORT DRIVE is located at the South end of Parksville. Turn towards Rathtrevor Beach and a quick right takes you to Resort Drive. Approx. 80 minutes return trip, 5 kms each way.
by Kim Young
INDUSTRIAL WAY: Driving south from Parksville, just after passing Rathtrevor Beach signage, take the immediate right to Industrial Way and follow it to the parking area on your right. Approx. 55 minutes return trip, 3.5 kms each way. CHATTEL ROAD: Passing Rathtrevor Beach, continue south on Island Hwy to Kaye Road. At 4-way stop, drive straight through and Chattel Road will be first right turn. Continue to the parking area at the bridge. ALLSBROOK ROAD: From Alberni Hwy #4A, turn onto Bellevue Road and then left onto Allsbrook Road. Approx. 5 kms to the park gate. 1 8
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or most of us who live on Vancouver Island, whether you’ve lived here forever or relocated here, a motivating factor is often the slower pace of life, not to mention living where the scenery takes your breath away. Hiking our local trails reminds me to cherish the natural beauty that surrounds us, and not very far from civilization I often feel like I’m exploring untouched territory.
has spread so far and wide, I couldn’t find a parking spot the last time I stopped by! But, this isn’t about food.
Although well-known to locals, Top Bridge is considered Parksville’s “secret gem”, and those who may not have experienced it yet are in for a treat because it has so much to offer. The many trails that network from this area meander along the Englishman River gorge, through old growth forest, by rock-faced cliffs and picturesque I must admit that with the noticeable swimming holes. There is something for influx of people, I have an urge to selfishly covet some of the “secret gems” everyone here; a mountain bike circuit, running, swimming, snorkeling, fishing, I’ve found; some of the lesser known trails, including one to a great beachside taco shed in Qualicum Bay. WordCONTINUED ON PAGE 23 of-mouth about this great little eatery
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Strathcona Well met there, you mountains, you crags of Strathcona, alone in dominions of stone, snow, and mist; your highnesses call me to sky-smiting summits that thrust through the storm-winds like God’s angry fist.
About this Poem ...
You’ve withstood the eons as hailstones assailed you and rain-channel adzes carved scars in your flanks; your canyons bear pathways eroded by footprints— the imprints of pilgrims on life’s river-banks.
We’re fortunate to have wonderful wilderness landscapes on our doorstep. One of those is Strathcona Park. This poem tries to convey the experience of standing inside it and seeing it in the context of its history.
From warfare the Comox sent women and children to alpine asylum—you cradled their womb, but all of them vanished and legend said giants from ice-caves had tossed them down cliffs to their doom. So now it’s Forbidden, that Plateau in shadow of Mount Albert Edward, the lofty abode where canvas-clad climbers crawled two thousand meters, and prospectors daydreamed of striking your lode.
Notes ...
When I first heard an old Scottish song called “Dark
Lochnagar” sung by The Corries, I was immediately taken with it. Its lyrics seemed exquisitely crafted. Later I learned they had been written by Lord Byron. He was born in Scotland and spent his boyhood there. ‘Lochnagar” is a mountain. Hiking in Strathcona Park, the rhythms of that song came back to me and formed the basis for this poem. The rhymes are abcb. The meter is a form of tetrameter (four beats per line). Each line is made up of two halves with a slight pause (caesura) in the middle, and each half has two strong beats. The meter of the first line is: Well MET there you MOUNtains,/ you CRAGS of StrathCONa, This poem appears in a podcast at http://www.ablemuse.com/erato/ showthread.php?t=10317.
Your names, their survivors: there’s Lone Wolf and Ursus, Tyee overlooking the Gold River’s gorge; the Golden Hinde, Black Cat, Augurpoint and Elkhorn, Moyeha and Kookjai, and King, Crown, and George. Now wilderness parkland, your name symbolizes the union of coastlines—the pioneer’s hike: old iron Strathcona, Canadian Pacific Railway’s First Baron, who drove the Last Spike. Today I feel kinship with those who have trodden your ramparts and ridges, your cirques and your scree; in Paradise Meadows, this great amphitheater, they once stood where I stand and marveled like me. Photo: “Forbidden Plateau, Strathcona Provincial Park 3” by Heqs
John Beaton lives in Qualicum Beach. His poetry has been widely published. He served for four years as moderator of one of the Internet’s most reputable poetry workshops and is a Spoken Word performer, a member of the band Celtic Chaos, and a co-organizer of local events, including a community showcase for musicians and Spoken Word performers, the Qualicum Acoustic Café (QUAC). You can find samples of John’s work by searching online for “John Beaton poetry”. To receive a monthly newsletter about local community events organized by John and his family and friends, email him at jabeaton@gmail.com. ~ •
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Community Event Calendar August 2015 LIGHTHOUSE COMMUNITY CENTRE (LCC) - 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay. FMI Hall rentals Call Sheena McCorquodale: (250) 757-9991. FMI on Events at the LCC visit www.communityhall.ca. SECOND SUNDAY MARKET at the Lighthouse Community Centre in Qualicum Bay – Sunday July 12th - 8amNoon, Pancake Breakfast - $5 or $7. Enjoy live music, breakfast, shopping for a treasure. The Lions will be serving breakfast. TAOIST™ TAI CHI Every Monday 9:30noon Susan Finlayson 250-757-2097 LIGHTHOUSE SPINNERS – Bring your Spinning Wheels and fibre and meet the Lighthouse Spinners at the LCC, Tuesdays at 10:30am. FMI Call 778-4241001. CARPET BOWLING – 12:45 to 3:00pm at the LCC. FMI Call Layne (250) 7578217. AA LIGHTKEEPERS - Fridays at 7:00pm at the LCC. FMI contact (250) 757-2300. BRIDGE – Nordin Room 1:00 to 4:00pm Friday afternoons at the LCC. FMI Call: Sheila Steele (250) 757-8307. LIONS REC HALL – 280 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay. FMI on Hall rentals Call Bert Carter: (250) 240-4538. QUALICUM BAY LIONS CLUB – Meet at 7pm, every second and fourth Tuesday in the Lions Den at the Lions’ Rec Hall.
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LIGHTHOUSE COUNTRY SCRAPBOOKERS – Meet 3rd Saturday monthly at the Lions’ Rec Hall, 9:30am4:30pm. $10. Door prizes. FMI Call Jorgie 250-757-8358 or Shirley (250) 757-8384.
MAGNOLIA COURT SUMMER MARKET in Bowser (6996 W. Island Hwy)– Wednesdays from 5:30-8pm until August 26th – Local produce vendors and artisans. Food truck. Contact Corinne 250-947-5231 or Sarah 250-937-1879 for vendor opportunities and info.
FLOOR CURLING. Be active this summer. Join us on Mondays until August 31st, 1-3 pm at the LIONS RECREATION HALL, in lovely Qualicum Bay. No equipment required. A game of fun and challenges. For all ages, a mixed group. Only $2 drop-in fee. FMI call Fred or Lorraine: 250-752-0216.
ERRINGTON FARMERS’ MARKET - Every Saturday 10am-1pm from May to September, in the Errington Community Park. Live music in the bandstand. Market basket with donations from vendors, tickets only $1. Fresh produce, baking, arts and crafts. For more info please contact: Salareena (250) 586-0099 www.erringtonfarmersmarket.ca
BOWSER TENNIS CLUB - info: steelehunt@shaw.ca, or ph 250757-8307
QUALICUM BEACH FARMER’S MARKET Saturday mornings, 8:30noon and Wednesdays, 4-630pm. At Veteran’s Way and Memorial in Qualicum Beach. A wide variety of from-the-farm produce, meats, fish, flowers, locally roasted coffee, breads, sweets and artisan-crafted products. Live music! No dogs, please. FMI: qbfarmersmarket.com
LIGHTHOUSE TRAILS GROUP - Needs your help! FMI Call: Val Weismiller: (250) 757-9667. RDN RECREATION PROGRAMS - View recreation programs online at www.rdn. bc.ca/recreation. FMI call Chrissie at (250) 757-8118, email at cfinnie@rdn. bc.ca or call Oceanside Place at (250) 248-3252. Pre-register for all programs to avoid program cancellation.
KNOX UNITED CHURCH 11TH ANNUAL FALL FAIR – 345 Pym Street, Parksville. Saturday, September 19 – 8am-2pm. HUGE GARAGE SALE: Household Items - Small Furniture – Sporting Goods - Clothing – Books – Linens – Jewellery - Toys - Christmas Decorations – Plants - Produce. PLUS: a Quality Corner - Concession - Silent Auction - Entertainment – Children’s Activities – Home Baking & Cookie Walk.
HENRY MORGAN PARK FAMILY PICNIC AND PLAY - Kids bring your adults and your dinner to play at Henry Morgan Community Park. A fun family evening and a great way to appreciate your community. Games and activities provided by RDN Recreation and Parks leaders, but if you have a favourite family game, bring it along. Propane BBQ’s welcome. Friday Aug. 28 5pm8pm. This event is FREE. FMI: RDN, Recreation and Parks at 250-757-8118. •
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annual Fall Fair go straight back into the community.
LIGHTHOUSE COUNTRY FALL FAIR – 45 YEARS YOUNG! by Terri Bowen
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hat were some of the ‘highlights’ of 1970? The average cost of a house was $23,450. The cost of a gallon of gas was 36 cents (yes, it was still a gallon until 1971…) and you could buy your dog 12 cans of food for a dollar! Farmers sued for damages caused by Woodstock , the Boeing 747 makes its maiden flight, John Wayne wins an Academy Award, and the Polaroid camera is patented. Besides enjoying the last recording the Beatles made, the first one Jimi Hendrix did and the premiering of the soap opera “All My Children”, OUR biggest community event was the very first Lighthouse Country Fall Fair. Now it’s 45 years old and it’s happening again on Saturday, September 5th . The Bow Horne Bay Commuity Club invites your family to take part in sharing in the fun!
Entrance to the Fair and all the attractions are FREE for children under 12 and due to this year’s successful grant writing, there will be even more special activities for the kids such as an expanded petting zoo, Action acrylic painting activity and a new ride - the Euro Bungee! (Adults – you can try this too.) There is something for all ages at the Fall Fair! Check out our Fall Fair Exhibit Guide to see all the categories you can enter so you can start getting ready to submit your amazing creations. The Guide can be found in local businesses, our beautiful library or on-line at http:// www.communityclub.ca . Thank you to all our local businesses for advertising in our Guide and to those who have made donations throughout the year that enable us to make this a fun-filled family event. Without them we couldn’t do this. We encourage everyone to support our local businesses. All funds raised from the
The Outdoor Main Stage will showcase our local talent throughout the day. Check out the previously judged submissions in Arts and Crafts, flora, vegetables, baking, photography, and wine on proud display. Get your family’s picture taken at the Kids Zone. Bardo, the glove-trained owl, courtesy of the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre is back. There’s the Bouncy Castle, pony rides, the pet and bike parade, various organized games and activities – all kinds of ongoing free entertainment for kids and adults alike. Our food vendors’ choices have greatly expanded over the year – some real taste treats! In the Indoor Artisans Hall, artists and crafters will be showcasing their work for you to enjoy and/or purchase. Wander through and dream of when the Fair began while admiring cars supplied by the British Car Club. Bring your coins to join in the fun in the annual Cake Walks, pie and corn sales, raffles and tantalizing Silent Auction. An ATM will be on-site for your convenience. Every year people come from all over the island and mainland to enjoy this event so keep our Lighthouse Country Fair young and vibrant with your participation! ~
LOCAL CANCER SUPPORT GROUP SAYS “THANKS”
M
elanie Young, General Manager of “The Gardens” accepts a token of appreciation from Court Brooker, the Oceanside Prostate Support Group facilitator. Mayor of Qualicum Beach, Teunis Westbroek participated and acknowledged the kindness and support that “The Gardens” has provided to this group, and many other local organizations. “The Gardens” have contributed in many ways to the group for over seven years. This support has helped hundreds of Oceanside residents to get real help dealing with serious challenges. ~ submitted
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horseback riding, dogwalking and hiking for all ages and fitness levels. No matter what your activity, simply being immersed in this area’s scenic panorama is a delight to the senses. Walking along the Englishman River, there is still such a rustic, untouched sense of natural beauty that one feels like an 18th century explorer in an undiscovered land. A highlight of Top Bridge is the 81 metre, cable suspension bridge known as Top Bridge Crossing. It prominently sits at the junction of Top Bridge Community Park, Top Bridge Mountain Bike Park and Englishman River Regional Park. Today, this 3-tower bridge constructed by the Regional District of Nanaimo allows hikers and cyclists to cross the Englishman River, but at one time, it was the site of a 19th century vehicle road, the only crossing once connecting Nanaimo to Port Alberni. Some of the original road footings can still be seen below the bridge. And, if you’re an eagle-eye, you may also catch sight of ancient petroglyphs.
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Top Bridge Regional Trail (a 10km return trek), links Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park on the ocean with the other parks on the Englishman River at Top Bridge. If you’re staying at any of the accommodations along Resort Drive in Parksville, the trail is at your doorstep and the route is clearly marked by blue and white trail markers.
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For “locals” and particularly, dog walkers, a popular “jumping on” spot for the Top Bridge Regional Trail is Industrial Way, just across the Island Highway from Rathtrevor Beach. The hike from here to Top Bridge is slightly shorter, about 7 kilometers for the return trip. If you prefer sightseeing or gauging your own hiking distance along the famous salmon river, the Chattel Road entrance offers Top Bridge as a starting point. Alternatively, if you are arriving from the Coombs/Errington area, you can drive to the end of Allsbrook Road and arrive at the opposite side of the bridge from Chattel Road. Both Chattel Road and Allsbrook Road are lovely ways to share this area with visitors because you can park just steps away from the suspension bridge and Top Bridge’s most scenic highlights. From here, you can hike at your leisure along trails on either side of the river.
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However you find your way to this “secret gem”, breathe deeply, fill your senses and perhaps go exploring for your favourite swimming hole and picnic spot! ~
TRAIL NOTES • As with most wooded trails, watch your step for rocks & tree roots. • Mountain bikers & less able-bodied hikers should note there are several sets of stairways to manage between Industrial Way & Top Bridge. See link for Top Bridge Mountain Bike Park below. • If you park at the Chattel Road or Allsbrook Road lot, note that park gates are closed every evening. Be sure to note the posted times for these closures. The park gate at Allsbrook Road is closed in winter, but you can park at the end of Allsbrook Road and it’s an easy 5 minute walk to Top Bridge.
Bookkeeping
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Bookkeeping Services Sage Simply Accounting & QuickBooks FREE CONSULATION
250-248-2429 www.hbhorizon.ca Unit #2 - 1306 Alberni Hwy, Parksville
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RDN map of Top Bridge Regional Trail http://www.rdn.bc.ca/cms/wpattachments/wpID2614atID4496.pdf Mountain Biking at Top Bridge http://www.trailforks.com/region/top-bridge/ The Top Bridge Regional Trail was the first trail to be developed in 1998 in a system of “Trail from Park to Park”, a concept developed by the Regional District of Nanaimo. The Top Bridge Crossing was completed in 2007. *** E Y E S O N B C
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