Beacon Magazine - February 2011

February 2011 vol 6 issue 81

Community Living on Vancouver Island Fanny Bay to Nanoose

Secret Festival of Trees • 6 TrekOn! The Wild Pacific Trail • 12

4 EDITORIAL 22 FEATURE Getting Set For Farm to Table Seafood in Deep Bay

18

BUSINESS & FINANCE

5 Biz Banter: What’s up in local business 13 Sussex Automotive 27

Vancouver Aquarium’s Citizen Science Project

12 TrekOn! The Wild Pacific Trail

GREAT OUTDOORS 12 18 20 28 37

Trek On Vancouver Aquarium’s Citizen Science Project Through the Seasons Tide Table Into the Garden

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

3 6 9 35

Artist: Courtney Powell The Secret Tree Festival of Arts ECHO Players Theatre CHLY: Buccaneer Radio

COMMUNITY LIFE

8 Inspired by Community 19 Bowser Seniors Housing 28 The Art of Conscious Living 30 Its Happening in Area H 34 On the Agenda

COMMUNITY PEOPLE

6

Secret Tree Festival of Arts

7 10 11 16 26

Out of the Nest: Robert Biro The Howie Meeker Story KSS Honour Students Happy Trails for Deb Gray Images & Voices – Nancy Whelan

HEALTH

31 Health & Wellness Matters

Courtney Powel’s “Moments like This” “It’s simple. I was born and raised in this environment. I’ve been in the bush all my life.

I’m good with a chain-saw, I like physical work, and I like being outside, so working with big pieces of wood was something I was drawn to.” ~ Courtney Powell

2

/ February 2011

THE REGULARS

39 40 41 42-43 44-46

Classifieds In the Stars Business Information Centre Community Events At Your Service Index & Businesses

ARTIST COURTNEY POWELL

STRAIGHT UP, BORN & BRED ON THE WEST COAST

By Lisa Verbicky

C

ourtney Powell is a stand-up West Coast man. He’s spent his whole life bushwhacking along the coast, hunting, fishing, trapping, and logging. He spent the first years of his life making waves in Powell Lake, near Powell River, BC. Today, the 61-year-old full time artist can be found fondly tumbling with grandchildren and carving wood in a sawdust-laden A-frame in, well, Courtenay.

The largely self-taught Powell is no hobbiest wood-turner, however. His work, like his uncanny name, is a wonder. His hand-carved large scale buddha-like faces, and whimsical masks are simply a joy to be around. His meticulously sanded and oiled vessels carved from ancient red and yellow cedar tree burls beg to be touched.

His hand-made, simply stated wood jewelry made from Garry oak, yew, cedar, maple, and alder is a complement in waiting.

But, for down to earth Powell, the beauty and simplicity of his work is a product of his coastal environment, hard work, a certain degree of pride, and a keep-busy, entrepreneurial spirit.

“It’s simple. I was born and raised in this environment. I’ve been in the bush all my life. I’m good with a chain-saw, I like physical work, and I like being outside, so working with big pieces of wood was something I was drawn to.”

Powell started wood carving about 15 years ago while running a wild mushroom company that exported mushrooms to Japan.

“I’d work for three months and then I’d have time off to ski, windsurf, and dabble with carving. After the bottom came out of the Japanese economy, I decided to try making a living as a full-time artist.”

Powell, who prefers to keep his artist life simple and unfettered by ego and pomp of the art world, approaches his work head-on with no preconceived notions.

“The trees don’t talk to me,” he laughs.

“But, I do see the makings of faces in trees and wood. I just say to myself, this looks like a good place to put two eyes and then I just let the rest happen.”

“Moments Like This” • Courtney Powell photo Powell’s pieces are carved primarily from BC old growth wood acquired from previously fallen or blown down pieces of timber. Burls are his favourite wood to work with, he says, because each one is different in grain, size and shape. He enjoys uncovering the design in each, particularly those that are 800 or 900 years old.

“I’ve seen burls that would blow your mind.

Some as big as 18 feet across.”

While he uses a lathe to turn his masks, the faces are carved by hand, giving him more creative freedom.

“On a lathe, you are locked up,” he says.

Powell has also created his own unique recipes for treating the copper embellishments on his giant masks and polishing his wood pieces. He also has a knack for working with the ‘rays’ in a piece of wood to give his masks the most radiant features.

The appeal of his work, goes beyond technique and can be found in his intent, which is to make people smile, and give people a joyful west coast experience.

One couple from Ontario was so happy with the mask they purchased for their front hall, that they bought another one soon after because they liked being greeted by it’s smiling face after a hard day at work, says Powell.

Powell also designs his work to be a tangible experience with finishing that feels like silk on the rounded edges of a face or the rim of a burl vessel juxtaposed with raw layers of cambium and rough bark.

“It’s great to see the looks on people’s faces when they, from the ‘bow-tie’ art scene, find me waving a chain-saw or up to my ass in sawdust,” he laughs. “They just love it!”

Powell’s work shows in high-end galleries, businesses and homes from Whistler to Europe, Australia, and the Bahamas. His masks, jewelry, and burls are to be discovered at the Salish Sea Market in Bowser. ~ For more information on Courtney’s Tree & Me Studio in Courtenay, visit www. oldgrowthconnection.com or call 250890-3313. / February 2011 3

AN EXCITING MUSICAL EVENT FOR MUSIC DIRECTORS, SINGERS AND OTHERS February 2011

VOLUME 6 NO 81 The Beacon is published monthly by EyesOnBC

Main Email: beacon@eyesonbc.com Phone/Fax: 250-757-9914 In Person EyesOnBC at Magnolia Court Box 182, #110-6996 W. Island Hwy. Bowser, British Columbia V0R 1G0 Mon - Fri 10-5 Journalists & Reporters Lisa Verbicky, Nancy Whelan, Rita Levitz, Georgia Nicols, Marilyn Dawson, David Morrison, JoAnne Sales, Harry Sumner & Miriam Shell, Carolyn Walton, Linda Tenney, Sharon Waugh, Shirley Culpin, Laura Busheikin, L.B. Baich, Jane Burton

P

lans are underway for an exciting workshop and concert sponsored by Knox United Church Music Ministries , February 26th & 27th .

Alan Whitmore, Knox’s new Director of Music Ministries has invited two dynamic musicians, Daniel Charles Damon and his spouse Eileen Johnson of Richmond, California to Parksville for this event. Dan, a world-respected author, composer and pastor, and Eileen, a well-known church musician and clinician facilitate workshops throughout the United States and Canada.

The Saturday workshop will be of special interest to Clergy, Worship leaders, Choir Directors, Music Teams, organists/pianists and singers but is open to anyone interested in exploring new hymns and songs by some

On Sunday, the highlight will be a massed choir concert of music and text created by Dan Damon. The concert will also feature Dan and Eileen as soloists (Dan is a world class jazz pianist) . The concert is at 7 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 27th at Knox United Church, 345 Pym St. PV. Similar workshops are being considered for the future, with the hope that a musical event like this will grow to be a wonderful, shared experience with others in our area.

For workshop registration, massed choir participation ( deadline is Feb. 18th) or concert tickets ($ 15) call Knox Church office : 250-248-3927. See ad on page 27 ~ submitted

We’re dedicated to keeping you informed via

Volunteer - Cathy Balogh

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of the best known contemporary authors and composers.

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By Sharon Waugh

O

riginally from Newfoundland, “by the other pond”, Brendan Mullaley chose Bowser as the ideal spot to relocate and enjoy his favourite pastimes: fishing and golfing. With his recent retirement from a 30-year career with the Edmonton Fire Department, Brendan is continuing to build upon a picture framing business that he has had since 1980. Now established in his new community he is relaunching his newest venture, Paradise Picture Framing with a tag line that speaks to his guarantee – “Quality for Less”. Located at 75 Privateer Drive, Bowser, Brendan offers custom framing to suit all of your needs. Brendan can be reached at 250-757-8773. Please refer to the advertisement for Paradise Picture Framing on page 44.

C

hanges are happening within the business of Dawn and Lawrence Setter, Setter and Associates, with RE/ MAX First Realty, in Parksville. Dawn tells us, “It’s always sad to lose someone who has worked with us for a long time. We wish Corrine all the success she deserves in her new position with Key 2 Resources. On the other hand, we are really excited to have the energy, fun and organizational skills Susan Danneberg will be bring to Setter and Associates. Susan’s commitment to the

local area and the community at large will be a huge asset to improve on the projects we already love to support. Welcome Susan.”

Susan, all the best in your new endeavour!

W

e have heard that the Village Boutique, at 211 Second Avenue West in Qualicum Beach, is under new ownership. A warm welcome to Sandie Hennessy on her new venture!

Do you have a destination list of your favourite shopping spots in Parksville? With Valentine’s Day just around the corner you will surely want to consider dropping into the new Vintage Bath Soap & Candle shop at 101-177 Weld Street, just up from Cha Cha Java. Business owner, Melody, is enthusiastic about her new venture, her beautiful location and in particular the extensive product line of Rocky Mountain Soap she has available for your home and gift selection. “It is important to offer my clients an amazing line of products that are chemical-free, made with pure essential oils and high quality natural ingredients. Rocky Mountain Soap has been enormously popular throughout Alberta, where it is made, and now you can find it here in Parksville!” But wait, there is a lot more to Melody’s elegant shop – you’ll

BOWSER LEGION LADIES’ AUXILIARY

Valentine’s Tea

find a thoughtfully chosen selection of aromatherapy products for bath and body, cosmetic bags, soy candles and much more. Vintage Bath Soap & Candle is open Tuesday to Saturday 10 - 5pm. Please refer to Melody’s ad below for your next visit!

A

lan Petrie and Anji Jones, owners of Sussex Automotive at Unit #5, 501 Stanford Avenue East in Parksville are proudly celebrating their 5th year of business in the city. Alan and Anji first opened the doors to their automobile repair shop on February 20, 2006, and their business has grown steadily since then with support from local clients, as well as those hailing from as far away as Victoria and Courtenay. “We really appreciate our customers; they trust us with their car care and it makes us happy to keep their vehicles running in tip-top shape,” said Anji in a recent interview.

If your classic, foreign or domestic car is causing you angst, and you know something’s wrong, but you’re not sure what – contact Anji or Alan for an assessment and car repair.

Sussex Automotive is profiled on page 13 of this edition of The Beacon. ~

ROCKY MOUNTAIN SOAP 100% natural soap & aromatherapy products for bath & body.

Wednesday February 9, 2011 1pm to 3pm Admission Adults: $5

♥ Door Prizes ♥ Cake Walk ♥ Boutique Table ♥ Silent Auction Phone 250.757.9222 7035 West Island Highway Supports Kwalikum Secondary Bursaries

• Natural Soy Candles • Gorgeous Cosmetic Bags • Gift Sets

HOURS: Tues-Sat 10-5 Closed Sunday & Monday 101-177 Weld Street, Parksville / February 2011 5

ACROSS THE SOUND TO DENMAN ISLAND

Robert Minden and Carla Hallett  Nancy Walker photo

THE SECRET TREE FESTIVAL OF ARTS

By Laura Busheikin

A

new mid-winter arts festival on Denman Island promises not only to help get us through the dark, wet days of February – it will also shed light on how art can be a powerful and playful response to the environmental challenges facing our world today.

The Secret Tree Festival of Art and Sustainability, produced by Arts Denman, will be a multi-disciplinary mix of workshops, discussions, readings, performances, and art exhibits, ranging over a gamut of genres: music, spoken word, visual art, film, collage, photography, tattoo art, literature, and storytelling. The art of environmentally-aware cooking will also be represented with a vegan feast in the Denman Hall and a special menu at a 6

/ February 2011

local restaurant. Children and youth will be included with events targeted specifically for these age groups.

The teeming diversity of this four-day festival is an appropriate reflection of its theme – art and sustainability.

“This is about using art to explore some of the issues we are facing such as climate change,” says festival Artistic Director Cynthia Minden, a Denman Island artist and long-time arts organizer.

“As new media bring us more and more information faster and faster and so much of that is bad news, we can feel overcome. Art has historically played a key role in helping people deal with these sorts of issues,” she says.

The creation of art is a great way to ward off despair, to understand issues better, to overcome isolation and to make a bold statement that just might motivate people to make positive changes. And art has helped focus and sustain social movements in many times and places throughout history.

“Just look at folk music; think of the song Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” says Minden. “Or think of Picasso’s painting, Guernica, which is so widely known and makes such a strong anti-war statement.”

She points out that artists have always been inspired by nature and used their art to continued on page 11

OUT OF THE NEST ROBERT BIRO

NAVIGATING THE WATERS

by Rita Levitz

R

obert Biro (Bowser Elementary School, Qualicum Beach Middle School, Kwalikum Secondary School ’05) can trace his love of the sea back to sitting on his grandpa’s lap and driving the speedboat, “not necessarily straight! Even as a young kid they’d have me on the wheel of the Lasqueti Island ferry, taking her into the harbour.”

Robert reconsiders for a moment. “Actually, they probably had it on auto pilot.” His grandpa Peter Forbes had co-founded the Lasqueti Fish Company, and by the time Robert was ten, he was working on his uncle Bill’s seine boat fishing for salmon and herring.

Strangely enough, his background in sports was also a good training ground for his career. “I was involved in baseball for sixteen years and with hockey for nine. I also umpired and coached baseball.” When Robert was sixteen, he was the Umpire-inChief of the Gold Medal provincial baseball game. “There you are behind the plate, and you’re getting yelled at by everyone – the parents, the coaches, the players. You need selective hearing and a thick skin. It’s like being in a managerial position on board ship – you need that thick skin. As Third Mate, I looked after the training of new crew members, which was second nature to me because of my coaching experience. Having played on sports teams has been helpful too, since on ships we all have to work as a team.”

“Even before I graduated high school, I knew what I wanted to do. I even had an all-paid for program for plumbing at North Island College, but when I got accepted for Nautical Sciences at BCIT, that was it.”

The apprenticeship program alternated school and work experience. This West Coast lad found himself on the Great Lakes and its connecting seaways and canals. “My first posting was on the CSL Tadoussac, a selfunloading bulk carrier. I spent my nineteenth birthday in the middle of Lake Superior, my twentieth in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and my twenty-third in Cabot Strait.”

Robert describes “water spouts coming across the bow of the ship like a tornado.” I looked at some of his photos – the ships are huge, the floating ice looks mighty cold, and the lights of our Canadian cities, as seen from their origins by the water, spectacular.

?????

Robert Biro  at home in Deep Bay. Rita Levitz photo With his Diploma of Technical Studies, Officer of the Watch certificate, and credentials for his Captain’s license, Robert is qualified to be Second Mate on any size vessel anywhere. He is back at school now for his Chief Mate’s ticket.

Robert still loves being home in Deep Bay, “playing” in his speedboat. “I can go out there, outside of Flora, drop a line in the water and just drift. I once drifted all the way to Qualicum, just sitting there, enjoying the ride.”

Comfortable with the mantle of responsibility, Robert looks forward to the future. “When you’re the one wearing the officer whites, you’re the one in authority, the person accountable. Do I want to be captain of a vessel and have full control?

Absolutely! Whether on this coast, back east or on the other side of the world, it wouldn’t matter!” ~

Naked Naturals 4647 Thompson Clarke Drive E., Bowser

Whole Foods & Supplements

/ February 2011 7

HONOUR STUDENTS OF KWALIKUM SECONDARY SCHOOL Over the next several months, we will introduce the Grade 12 Kwalikum Secondary students who are currently completing their achievement requirements for induction into the Qualicum Beach Honours Society. “The Directors of the Society believe that our community benefits when our youth strive for excellence.” To find out how you can support their endeavours, please contact KSS Principal, Jesse Witte at (250) 752-5651.

JILL CAMERON I can’t believe it’s already here; graduation is just around the corner.

My time at KSS has been filled with friends, music, and of course some hard work. The KSS music program always made my days a little brighter and fuller. I am so excited for the next steps in my life: University, and future years to come!

KJYLAGH GASCHLER After leaving KSS, I would like to attend UBC Okanagan. Over the past four years I have had a tough time deciding what I want to do. When I tore my ACL in Grade 9, my specialist and my physiotherapist inspired me. They helped me nurse my knee back to health. This experience impacted me greatly. I want to study Human Kinetics, to help people like I was helped.

“The roots of achievement lie in the will to become the best you can become.” ~ Harold Taylor.

ELIZABETH ELWOOD I grew up in Qualicum and have the fondest memories of the people and all my experiences. Throughout high school I’ve really enjoyed the challenge of Biology and the creative outlet of sewing. I have danced at Q.B.S.D for seven years and joined Dancestreams, a pre-professional youth company last year. After graduation I hope to obtain training to become a Dance teacher and study in the field of Human Kinetics.

TABITHA WITHERELL My passions are dance and fashion. I started dancing when I was 15, and I fell in love with it. Dance has taught me how to express my emotions through movement and it has helped me to grow into myself by becoming more outgoing. My dream is to work at a fashion magazine as a stylist, in a public relations company or to work as a fashion publicist.

“Dr. Ian and Maggie Smith congratulate the Honour Students and wish them well in their educational pursuits.”

Echo player cast members from left to right: Keith Roger (Surly man), Kathy Harper seated on green throne (Lotte), Kelly Barnum (Miss Farmer), Jeanie Smith seated on pink throne (Lettice) and Mike Andrews (Mr. Bardolph).

Photo: Edie McDonough

LETTICE AND LOVAGE

by L.B. Baich rue friendship is a plant of slow growth, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is entitled to the appellation (George Washington).” It would seem that these sentiments hold true in the Peter Shaffer play Lettice and Lovage.

In this comedic play Lettice, a bored tourist guide infused with a penchant for embellishment as a result of her mothers’ code of “enlarge, enliven, and enlighten”, finds her imagination reaching new heights with each new tour group she leads though a centuries old hall in London. Her enthusiastically embellished tale-telling days are cut short when her supervisor, Lotte, goes undercover and discovers just how far from the truth Lettice’s tales have become; a discovery which leads to Lettice’s dismissal.

However, shortly after the dismissal Lotte has a change of heart and offers Lettice a letter of reference and news of possible postings for future employment. To show her gratitude for the letter and employment tips, Lettice offers Lotte a celebratory drink which soon extends through the

night and leads to the happy discovery of a mutual distaste for “mere” architecture.

This commonality sets the groundwork for the development of the humorous twists and turns and up and downs that their newfound friendship must face while keeping the audience wondering if the friendship can even survive.

Originally produced in London in 1987, the play has received a Tony nomination for best play, has provided Tony awards for two of its actresses, and was chosen by local director Sue Murguly because “the play is witty and quirky, and yet its’ elements speak to issues that are close to my heart, societies that have ‘no spunk’ and accept ‘mere’ and ‘mediocrity’. Murguly adds, “the play demands daring performers; this means the performers must thrive on taking risks.”

For actor Kathy Harper, who plays Lotte, the play “provides a wonderful opportunity to explore. Lotte’s journey in the play is very interesting…it goes from the rule of desk, cloaked in ‘propriety’ and order, to the discovery of joy through Lettice.”

For actor Jeanie Smith, who got the nod for the role of Lettice, the play offers a more personal exploration; “Lettice is the lady I always wanted to be. She has courage of her conviction. She has thrones in her house. She doesn’t accept the ‘mere’.”

With its unexpected, light-hearted humorous turns of events this play will keep you wondering how friendship survives and may have you evaluating your own acceptance of mediocrity. So come and join the ECHO Players for a light night of theatre as they present Paul Shaffer’s Lettice and Lovage and be prepared to revel in the performances of this talented cast as they get ready to, as director Murguly says, “touch the divine.” ~ Lettice and Lovage runs from March 31st to April 17th at ECHO’s Village Theatre located at 110 West 2nd Avenue in Qualicum Beach. Tickets are available at the Box Office and may also be ordered by phone at 250-752-3522. For additional information please refer to www.echoplayers.ca.

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/ February 2011 9

PRODUCED BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS WITH SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.

“T

THE HOWIE MEEKER STORY

By Carolyn Walton

S

even years ago hockey living legend Howie Meeker told the author of the Stanley Cup Journals, “Let me tell ya sumthin’. It’s been one hell of a life, and I ain’t through yet!” Still living it up at 87, he’s carved yet another notch into his hockey stick, the prestigious Order of Canada.

Those multiple notches include: as Toronto Maple Leafs right-winger, the 1946 Calder Memorial Trophy for outstanding rookie of the year, setting the league record of five goals in a Toronto Maple Leafs game against the Chicago – five Stanley Cups with the Leafs – at age 24 elected Conservative MP for the Ontario riding of Waterloo South – presented with the 1974 Gordon Sinclair Award, inaugurated by the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television for “outspoken opinions and integrity in broadcasting” – in 1998 at age 75 he was given the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award for “excellence in broadcasting” – inducted into the NHL Hockey Hall of Fame in the Broadcaster’s category. In 2003 Howie Meeker was also inducted into the BC Hockey Hall of Fame in Penticton, and November 4th, 2009, the same month he turned 86, he was inducted into the CBC Sports Hall of Fame!

Meeker replaced King Clancy as Head Coach of the Leafs in 1956 and made General Manager the following season for a year. Accepting a personal invitation from Newfoundland premier, Joey Smallwood, Howie moved to St. John’s in ‘58, coaching that city’s youth hockey program for the next twenty-odd years as well as Sports Director for radio, TV and newspapers. His new career was born in ‘68 as an analyst for CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada, educating viewers through his expertise with the instant replay telestrator and entertaining with his trademark “golly-gee willikers! jumpin’ Jehoshaphats! Jiminy Cricket! and cotton pickin’ puck!”

Meeker played hockey with the Parksville Panters in his namesake, Oceanside Place until he was 80! “They begged me to come down and play” he says. “Hated me while I was there, missed me when I left.” In a recent coffee table book: “Maple Leafs Top 100: Toronto’s Greatest Players of All Time”

by Mike Leonetti, Howie Meeker is number 10

/ February 2011

46, ahead of hockey greats: “Wild Bill” Ezinicki, Eddie “clear the track” Shack, former Canadiens’ power forward Bert Olmstead and Jacques “the mask” Plant among others.

It wasn’t hard to find a parking spot at the Meeker oceanfront home in French Creek. “Maple Leaf fans only!” a sign reads.

Great! As a former Torontonian and still loyal Leaf fan I feel I qualify. (Later however, Howie sadly confides that not many do!) Howie and his charming wife, Leah, proudly show me their cosy Sea Room with floor to ceiling windows providing panoramic views of Lasqueti Island and the snow-capped Coast Mountains. On the lawn outside, a magnificent elk rack sports a sign, Quail Run, to honour the fifty or so California quails that roam the property, while nearby signs point toward Maple Leaf Gardens3,000 miles and Newfoundland and PEI (Leah‘s home)- 5000 miles. Leah’s exquisite floral paintings adorn the living room, bringing their beloved garden indoors.

I’m curious to discover what brought this Canadian hockey icon to Oceanside. In 1972, while still in Newfoundland, Howie was asked by Brian Storrier, manager of the brand new arena in Parksville, if he would be guest speaker for some 1,500 people at a minor hockey meeting. At the time he was running his Howie Meeker Hockey School in St. John’s and travelling across Canada and the US running hockey clinics. He and his son Andy met with Brian on the Island.

“It was a good meeting”, he recalls. “The next morning we were taken out fishing and the bay was full of Coho. We weren’t out there ten minutes before WOW, BANG, Andy gets this thing in the boat weighing 10 pounds. Then ten minutes later, WOW, I get one and start thinking, LORD TUNDERIN’ JASUS, how long’s this been going on! So when Brian asked me to come west and start a hockey school here, I asked him, how soon?” A year later Howie took one look at a ¾ acre oceanfront property in French Creek, bought it and moved west, after arranging with Guy Lafleur to replace him at the hockey school he was running in Stanstead, Quebec. The rest, as they say, is history.

Leah & Howie Meeker  Carolyn Walton photo

For the next 25 years Howie ran his Howie Meeker Hockey School in Parksville, teaching kids from all over the world, generally 220 at a time, including former Vancouver Canucks’ defenseman, Willie Mitchell, whose grandparents Les and Betty Mitchell, reside in Deep Bay. The year 1977 saw the beginning of his Colour Analyst career with the Vancouver Canucks. Then one day in 1993 after covering a game in Los Angeles he thought “What am I doing here? I’ve had a good kick at the can – it’s time!” and retired from the CBC. However he returned to TSN until his true retirement from TV broadcasting in 1998 at age 75!

Besides their love of bird-watching and gardening, Leah and Howie have been active in the BC Guide Dog Association on the Island and love attending Sunday musicals in Qualicum Beach where they can enjoy internationally-acclaimed musicians perform on the grand piano which the Meeker’s donated to The Old School House. They are active members of The Third Dimension, a graduate group of original Newcomers, and love to dance, golf, fish and hunt!

Howie often hangs out with buddies, Bernie Pascall, Michael Warmington, Rob Glazier, retired sportscasters and other media types at monthly social get-togethers of the Oceanside Media Club at the Arrowsmith Golf Club. Looking forward to receiving The Order of Canada at Rideau Hall, he reflects upon another memorable event on July 24th, 2004 ,when he introduced his beloved Stanley Cup to some 1,000 fans who gathered at Oceanside Place for photos and autographs. ~

THE SECRET TREE FESTIVAL OF ARTS continued from page 6 defend it, from Thoreau’s Walden to Joni Mitchell’s Big Yellow Taxi, with its classic refrain, “They paved paradise and put up a parking lot.”

The festival’s name reflects the rich metaphorical possibilities of the tree. “It puts down roots, it reaches up, it has annual cycles, it feeds and houses other life,” says Minden. And trees are incredibly valuable in keeping the earth healthy: they help prevent global warming by removing carbon dioxide from the air, storing carbon in the trees and soil, and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere. They prevent soil erosion, clean our water, provide cooling shade, and shelter birds and wildlife. “…And it’s interesting to add the word secret,” says Minden, musing on the festival title. “It means there is something you haven’t yet learned. Hopefully that’s true,” says Minden.

The Secret Tree Festival will draw on Denman Island artists and organizations, many of which have a strong history of artistically addressing sustainability issues. For instance, Denman author Des Kennedy, well-known for his books about gardening and nature, will give a reading on the theme ‘Tree Wisdom: the Art of Staying Put’; biologist Jenny Balke, who has worked for years on land conservation, will lead a Photography Naturalists’ Walk for kids, and activist group Renewable Energy Denman Island (REDI) will show a series of documentary films about environmental art. Also, the Denman Island Audio Arts Collective is moving their monthly open-mic event to a bigger venue, and adding a sustainability theme, to be part of the festival.

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As well, there will be artists from further afield, such as musicians Robert Minden and Carla Hallett. This dynamic duo performs sophisticated and playful music on invented and imagined instruments, interwoven with stories and augmented by innovative use of the human voice.

“They play on bottles and plumbing pipes and flower pots. What a great example of re-using and re-cycling,” says Minden. “We can express ourselves musically by using things that are just lying around.” Minden and Hallett will perform a public concert entitled Songs and Silence in the Denman Community Hall as well as a special kids’ show at Denman Elementary.

First Nations author Wedlidi Speck will talk about art as an agent of social change and storyteller Patrick Lewis will talk about how narrative and storytelling work together to create meaning.

Minden says the idea for a mid-winter festival on Denman Island first took form last winter when Arts Denman presented a small February writers’ festival. When Minden heard about a BC Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development funding opportunity called the Spirit Festival Grant for rural communities, she put together a proposal which, in the spite of stiff competition, was successful. The result will be this lively and stimulating festival. ~ The Secret Tree Festival of Art and Sustainability will run from Thursday, February 17 through Sunday, February 20. For a full schedule, descriptions of events and registration information (including the opportunity to buy tickets on-line) go to artsdenman.com.

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STORM WATCHING

WILD PACIFIC TRAIL

By Sharon Waugh Start: Ucluelet Distance: 8.5 kilometres one way Trailhead Directions: The trail is divided into three sections; Lighthouse Loop, Big Beach and Brown’s Beach. Trailhead approaches for all three are well marked on maps of the Wild Pacific Trail. Lighthouse Loop: a 30-45 minute loop includes a visit to Amphitrite Lighthouse, start at the new parking lot at the 0 km point on Coast Guard Road. Big Beach: accessible from the intersection of Marine and Matterson Road.

Brown’s Beach: the starting point is a new parking lot just past the Black Rock Resort on Marine Drive.

Guides: A quick stop at the Tourist Bureau at the intersection of Highway #4 (coming from Port Alberni) and the junction turnoff to Ucluelet-Tofino to grab the free Wild Pacific Trail map produced by the Wild Pacific Trail Society. Or visit www. wildpacifictrail.com for detailed information and maps of the trail system.

Wild Pacific Trail Society Mission: The Wild Pacific Trail society is dedicated to the promotion, protection and expansion of a scenic network of walking trails that showcases the unique natural and cultural treasures of the Ucluelet peninsula.

“Life on the Edge” – pretty well sums up the experience of heading to the west coast of the Island for a day of storm watching as you explore the rugged coastline near Ucluelet on the Wild Pacific Trail.

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/ February 2011

About nine years ago I attended a presentation, hosted by the Qualicum Beach Chamber, which featured the Ucluelet Town Planner, Felice Mazzoni, who had just received international recognition for his team’s sustainability plans to support their vision statement of a desired Ucluelet as “an attractive, safe, healthy, friendly, vibrant, ecologically sound maritime community contained by nearly 40 kilometres of waterfront, greenbelt, and natural environment”. Of the several take-aways from this presentation, one in particular has remained forefront, in my idealistic trail-building mind, as the best case scenario for the planning of any coastal community in regards to waterfront public access – a policy for 100% pedestrian access. As a result of this platform the legacy of the Wild Pacific foreshore trail was set in play and further supported town planning for linking pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods.

Originally the idea of ‘Oyster Jim’ Martin, a long-time local oyster farmer, the trail is being developed through private, business and government contributions to the Wild Pacific Trail Society. It is a showcase for both residents and visitors to the Town of Ucluelet which takes its name from the Nuuchah-nulth First Nation phrase, Yu-clutlahts, “the people with a good landing place for canoes.”

The trail curves round the rocky shoreline of the Ucluelet Peninsula offering panoramic views of Barkley Sound, the Broken Group Islands and the open Pacific Ocean. Dotted along it’s length are short side trails to “artist” viewpoints prime for capturing images of a passing whale,

seabirds and sealions. In late winter/early spring the arrival of migrating gray whales is celebrated locally by the Pacific Rim Whale Festival. Upwards of 20,000 whales make their way from the warm calving and breeding lagoon waters off of the Baja heading toward the cold, nutrient-rich waters of the Arctic north - often within viewing distance of shore. The festival dates this year are March 19 -27th and a calendar of daily events can be accessed at www. pacificrimwhalefestival.com.

The Lighthouse Loop boasts a visit to the now unmanned, automated Amphritrite Lighthouse established in 1915. Originally, a light tower on the point was lit with a 31day Wigham lamp which was maintained by the lifeboat operator stationed at Ucluelet. In 1914 the Princess Maquinna radioed Victoria with news that this light tower had washed away – a tidal wave had hit on January 2nd, 1914 and demolished the tower. Following this, a hanging lantern was installed (1919) and the watchman from the Ucluelet lifeboat station, took over the daily one mile hike at sunset to light the lamp wick, another trip at midnight to wind the machinery and trim the wicks, and yet another trek at sunrise to put the light out. Whew!

All in all, the Wild Pacific Trail is a doable day-trek to the west coast and...you don’t even have to pack a lunch for the trail...drop into the Black Rock Resort Restaurant at the convenient half-way marker and enjoy coastal cuisine while watching the waves dance on the signature black reef shoreline.

Yes! “Life on the Edge” has an abundant menu of attributes to enjoy! ~

CLASSIC Photo courtesy Suffolk Jaguar, UK

SUSSEX AUTOMOTIVE: CAR SERVICE WITH STYLE

by Linda Tenney

I

t could have been a wintry afternoon in 1935, when a group of men headed by automotive design genius William Lyons sat around a table with drafting paper stretched out across its surface, pencils strewn about like toppled toy soldiers, and brows raised high in admiration of the classic beauty that had slowly emerged from a blank canvas, and was now complete.

A year later, the first SS100 moved from concept to reality when it rolled off the production line and into the hands of its new owner. I’m sure the excitement was palpable, and the roar of the engine astounding as car and driver drove off down the country lane in front of the SS Cars Ltd. factory in Coventry, England.

Move forward a few decades to meet Alan Petrie. It’s not everyone who discovers their dream job early in life, but that’s

exactly what Alan found in 1966 when he joined the automotive dealership of Moores of Brighton in Sussex, England as an apprentice. Training with the best technicians and working with the finest of classic cars, Alan knew then that he wanted to spend his life in the company of Rolls Royce, Jaguar, Jensen, Triumph and Land Rover vehicles. Alan gained an incredible bank of knowledge in the ten years he was with Moores– knowledge that helped him excel in a career he still loves to this day.

A few decades later, Alan and his wife Anji Jones arrive in Parksville to open a car repair shop, Sussex Automotive on Stanford Avenue. In fact, Alan and Anji are proudly celebrating their 5th year in business this month – an accomplishment penciled into their journal as an important business milestone. “We’re very grateful and happy

to be here,” says Anji. “We welcome clients locally and from as far away as Victoria and Courtenay. We truly thank them for trusting us with their car care.”

While Anji deftly handles the administrative details of the business, Alan keeps very busy in the garage. Since November 2010 he has been working on a pet project – skillfully piecing together an SS100 puzzle – a finely detailed replica of a model from the 1930’s that arrived as a kit from Suffolk Jaguar in England. After months of meeting red tape regulations, the kit will be the first ever built in Canada, and the anticipation of the ‘build’ has been a flurry of excitement in the shop ever since. In addition to dozens of kit parts, a Jaguar XJ6 donor car was purchased to supply the power train, suspension, drive line, and brakes, all of which were fully refurbished before being installed. continued next page / February 2011 13

Linda Tenney photos Alan at work on the SS100 motor in his Parksville shop

Mentioned in this article Suffolk Jaguar Ltd., UK www.suffolkautomotive.com Shady Mile Restorations, Nanaimo Styles Auto Marine Upholstery, Victoria stylesautomarineupholstery.ca Arrowsmith Towing, Hilliers

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT SUSSEX AUTOMOTIVE I wanted to take this first opportunity to let you know that the car ran like a dream during our Rolls Royce Owners’ Club meet last weekend in the Victoria area. The fairly extensive repair work you did on the car was definitely worthwhile! Thanks again for the great repair job. ~ Lois P – owner, 1989 Rolls Royce Silver Spur

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/ February 2011

“I grinned from ear to ear the first time I started it up,” said Alan. I’m not surprised.

The two-seater sports car is a collector’s dream and its ‘first drive’ is eagerly anticipated by its discerning owner in Victoria, British Columbia.

But all great things take time, and although her engine has already roared in the garage, building the SS100 from a kit is a long project, involving not only Alan and Eric Bradley (the other technician at Sussex Automotive), but a handful of equally skilled trades-people. At the time of writing, the steel reinforced fiberglass body is at Shady Mile Restorations in Nanaimo who will paint it to ‘show quality’ standard, while Styles Upholstery in Victoria is stitching the red leather that will grace the SS100s ‘interior.

Replica or not, this classic with its 4.2L XK Jag engine is destined to be loved for her fine lines and decades long design pedigree.

Although classic and foreign cars are a specialty, Alan and Anji offer repair services at Sussex Automotive for domestic models too, so don’t hesitate to roll your ‘daily driver’ up to the garage door; where it will be most welcome. Alan uses only the best car parts to ensure that every vehicle is repaired properly, finely tuned and safe for the road.

I encourage you to visit Sussex Automotive in Parksville. As a woman, I’ve always felt a bit intimidated by carburetter and motor oil, but the folks at Sussex Automotive make a trip to the garage as delightful as a visit to the coffee shop. The shop is as neat as a pin,

Alan Petrie and Anji Jones and thoroughly professional. Right from the time you schedule your repair with Anji, to the time you’ll spend with Alan or Eric as they explain the work that needs to be done, you’ll know you’re in good hands. Alan’s motto: Do good work. Do only the work that’s needed. And treat people with respect.

“It’s easy to be honest,” he says.

Like all small business owners Alan and Anji are seeking the ideal live:work balance.

Perhaps a little more time for Alan’s photography and love of fishing, and Anji’s continuing education in the practice of healing touch. It’s a balance they tweak the details of regularly.

By the way, if the rather mundane name “SS100” is unfamiliar to you … think Jaguar instead. Yes, today’s Jag was originally tagged by letters and numbers, then renamed “Jaguar” during the War years when the initials “SS” reminded people of something far different than a British sports car. ~

REAL ESTATE PROMOTION

RECOGNIZING YOUR HOME’S VALUE TAX ASSESSMENT VS REALTOR® OFFERED COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS

By Marc LaCouvée

I

t’s that time of year again – property tax assessments have arrived in the mail. Most of us have some anticipation for our latest assessment report but also secretly dread what the numbers will be.

Many will wonder how the assessment value of our home relates to its actual value in the market – i.e. what it would sell for today. The assessment number does have value and relevance but this is only a starting point in determining the actual market value of your home.

to calculate market value by comparing your home or your potential home to similar properties that have recently been sold in the area. In formulating your CMA, your REALTOR® will also examine “expired” listings. These are listings that did not sell during the listing period and are usually a good indication of the market’s upper end. If a home doesn’t sell during the listing period, it is likely that is was priced too high for the market.

If you are planning on refinancing, selling or buying you will need to know what the true market numbers are for your home or the homes you are thinking about. Take advantage of the expertise of your local real estate professional and request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This is an incredible tool, almost always offered

by REALTORS®, at no cost, to estimate the value of your home by comparing “apples to apples”.

Let’s take a look at how a CMA can guide you in the buying or selling process.

Since the market value of a home is determined by what a buyer is willing, able and prepared to pay, a CMA is used

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$

If you are a buyer, a CMA can help you determine what to offer on a listing you want to buy. If you are refinancing, a CMA will give you some indication of what to expect when you have your home formally appraised.

If you are thinking of selling, buying or refinancing, be sure to talk to your local real estate professional and request a CMA. It will offer you vital information about your local real estate market that will help optimize your position in your real estate transaction. ~

Marc LaCouvee was born and raised on Vancouver Island. He is a REALTOR® If you are a seller, a CMA can help you and is a Dad. He has spent his lifetime determine recent (within the last three exploring this great paradise. Whether to six months) selling prices for homes supporting Oceanside Minor Hockey, similar to yours, the length of time these other local organizations or attending homes were on the market before they PAC meetings, Marc is committed to sold, the length of time it will likely take community, his family and the area that to sell your home and the homes you he and his children live in. Marc works would be competing with if you chose for RE/MAX Anchor Realty in Qualicum to put your home on the market at this Beach. www.MarcLaCouvee.com time. How you price your home relative to competition will be critical to your success in selling your home.

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/ February 2011 15

Deb Grey Larson with her Honda Valkyrie - one of the enduring passions of her life

IT’S HAPPY TRAILS FOR VETERAN MP DEB GREY

By Shirley Culpin ‘Never retreat, never explain, never apologize; get the thing done and let them howl.’ ~ Nellie McClung (1878-1951) For her entire life, those words of Canadian suffragette Nellie McClung have been Deborah Grey’s mantra. But for a particular 15 year period, they carried added weight and significance. Born and raised on Vancouver’s west side, solidly ensconced at the age of 36 in a teaching career in Alberta, Deb suddenly found herself on March 13, 1989, as the first – and only – Member of Parliament representing the Reform Party of Canada. Thus began a 15 year run as one of the most visible MPs on Parliament Hill. She weathered the worst that party politics had to offer, countless weekly commutes between her riding in northern Alberta and Ottawa, the rigors of five campaigns in sprawling ridings. She was called everything from a slab of bacon (in The House, no less) to a dissident. Through it all she retained her quick wit, her dedication to the goals of her party and her constituents and her ability to think and make decisions on her feet.

Her image as a ‘motorcycle Mama’ during those years lingers still in the memories of many.

But that is all finished now, and Deb has no regrets. She may well be the only politician in history who has truly abandoned politics, who feels not one whit of remorse at having left all the excitement and challenges behind.

“That chapter of my life is over,” she says, “and I have no interest in going back. I had such a great run…”

Moving on included a new home for Deb and her husband of 17 years, Lew. After decades of living in northern Alberta the couple has settled in a spacious home with sweeping ocean views in Dashwood/ Little Qualicum, just north of the Little Qualicum Bridge.

So, what made them choose Oceanside?

“One day several years ago Lew asked me where I would like to live if we thought we only had 10 years left,” says Deb. “I thought it was just a rhetorical question at the time, and I responded by saying I would like to live by the water.” continued next page 16

/ February 2011

continued from previous page That probably wasn’t a surprising response from a West Coast gal, born and bred. The fact that the couple spent considerable amounts of time visiting friends and family in Vancouver and all up and down Vancouver Island had an influence on where they ended up too, she says.

Deb was retired from the House of Commons by then, had received her Order of Canada, and was basically a free spirit as far as a home location was concerned. Her public speaking engagements kept her on the go, but without ties to a constituency, where she lived was not an issue.

“We kept gravitating to Qualicum,” she Deb and her husband Lew in their home ‘by the water’ says. One day Shirley Culpin photo while they were visiting friends here Lew walked down to the Post Office and returned some time later with a fistful of real estate listings from Coast Realty. Thus began the search for a home ‘by the water’.

Family circumstances on Lew’s side of the family had altered, and the couple felt free to leave the Edmonton area, knowing that his widowed mother would have company and could be cared for by his recently-returned siblings.

“And, the winters (in Edmonton) were getting harder and harder and harder,” recounts Deb. By the spring of 2008 the pair had purchased their Qualicum Beach home – just in time for the big snows of the winter of 2008/2009.

“We still had our house in Edmonton,” says Deb, “and all our snow clearing stuff was there. We had to go out and buy all sorts of new stuff to deal with the weather here.” She laughs her hearty laugh.

“When we first moved here someone asked if I was interested in joining the curling club, but I don’t want to see ice anymore – not even in a curling rink!”

These days Lew and Deb get to live together full-time – an impossibility for the first 11 years of their marriage when she was still a Member of Parliament. They take obvious delight in each other’s company, and in sharing motorcycle trips, walks in their friendly neighbourhood, and in the fellowship of their friends in Qualicum’s Baptist Church. They have traveled to the far reaches of Vancouver Island on their 1520cc matching Honda Valkyrie motorcycles and they continue to visit regularly with friends and family all over the country. Deb’s freelance work as a motivational speaker and consultant keeps her busy – but not too busy, and she lends her name to a number of charities that she actively supports.

She has just completed her forty-third year of riding motorcycles, which is clearly one of her biggest passions.

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“I even go to get groceries on the bike” she says with a chuckle. “I just have the best life, and I am loving it.” ~ / February 2011 17

VANCOUVER AQUARIUM’S CITIZEN SCIENCE PROJECT NEEDS YOUR HELP

By Jane Burton

D

o you see marine mammals such as porpoises, whales and dolphins while you are spending time on or by the ocean?

Those observations add to the richness of life in this part of Vancouver Island, but, if you take the time to report them to the Vancouver Aquarium’s BC Cetacean Sightings Network, they can also make a valuable contribution to marine science.

Caitlin Birdsall, research assistant for the BC Cetacean Sightings Network, will be giving a presentation at the Fanny Bay Hall February 27th about marine mammal species common to this part of Vancouver Island, threats to these animals, and information on how you can participate in the Sightings Network.

The BC Cetacean Sightings Network was launched in 1999 by the Vancouver Aquarium. It partners with a host of universities and environmental groups and it works closely with the Science Department at DFO’s Pacific Biological Station in Nanaimo. The Sightings Network collects data on whales, dolphins, sea turtles and porpoises. Using citizen’s observations helps overcome the huge challenge of monitoring BC’s long coastline. Caitlin explains why this work is so crucial: “Over 12 of the species of cetaceans and sea turtles that live in BC are listed under the Species at Risk Act right now as either endangered or threatened or special concerns. However, some of them are quite rare and not something you are likely to see every day, especially on the east coast of Vancouver Island. But, a lot of them that are considered more common species are

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listed. For example, all of the populations of killer whales in British Columbia are listed.

Harbour porpoises that a lot of people in and around the Fanny Bay area would be familiar with are listed under the Species at Risk Act.” Through reporting your sightings you can help to prevent these mammals from facing further risk. From the data collected scientists learn about the characteristics of the habitat that are most important for these animals. A downward shift in the number of sightings in an area known for frequent sightings can ring alarm bells leading to detection of habitat destroying elements. In addition to recovery strategies for species at risk, the data is also used for a multitude of research studies and environmental impact assessments for proposed coastal developments.

Sightings reports can be made on-line, by email, phone or using a log book.

Background information and species identification help can be found at the Network’s website www.wildwhales. org. Once you register to be an observer you will be able to report your sightings through the on-line form which also has a Google mapping function to help pinpoint the sightings location. Observations can be emailed to sightings@vanaqua.org or phoned in to 1-866-I SAW ONE. If you are not 100% certain what you saw, the phone option is the best bet as you can get help from a staff person. The Network wants to hear about everything you see; no sighting is too small. Your reports should include as much as possible of the following information: what species you saw, how

many, where, when, what were they doing, if they were travelling, which direction were they headed, and, what were the weather conditions at the time.

Caitlin Birdsall has a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Biology from the University of Northern BC. A native of Vancouver, her passion for the ocean and its inhabitants was formed early in life especially during time spent at her family’s property in the Southern Gulf Islands. She enjoyed her previous work in public education and in the public galleries at the Vancouver Aquarium but she feels extremely fortunate to be working with the BC Cetacean Sightings Network. Her job is multi-faceted involving coordination of the Network’s activities, communicating the data analysis to decision makers and other interested groups, and, promoting public participation. Caitlin is enthusiastic about her public education role: “I do really enjoy travelling around to different communities on the coast because everyone is always really interested in the topic. I happen to work on a species which a lot of people describe as a sexy species.

It’s a lot easier to get people excited about whales than it would be if I was trying to get people excited about snails.”

Whether you want to join the Network’s observer team or you just want to know more about our diverse marine life, don’t miss Caitlin’s fascinating presentation February 27th, 2pm, at the Fanny Bay Hall. you may never look at the ocean the same way again. ~ Jane E. Burton is a freelance writer who operates her company Memorable Lines from her home in Fanny Bay.

BOWSER SENIORS HOUSING SOCIETY

ENTHUSIASM NEEDED! Submitted by Sally Barton

F

or at least the past six years the Bowser Seniors Housing Society (previously named the 211 Seniors Housing Society) has been moving inch by inch (or should that be cm by cm) closer to creating affordable housing for seniors in ‘our area’*.

Progress has been slow, but it has been progress; the society was created, members recruited, charitable status obtained, a ‘needs assessment’ conducted, some land evaluated for development, other land viewed as a potential building location, applications submitted to obtain Crown land, information shared through articles like this, and workshops held to increase knowledge and to bring people together to discuss issues. All of this was done by volunteers on a very small budget that was generated from membership dues of $5 per person/ year.

We are now very close to obtaining some appropriate land for development, but there is still so much to do before we can offer seniors an affordable housing alternative. Currently many seniors have to leave this area when they can no longer look after their existing residence, even though their friends and support group are here.

This society needs enthusiastic people with skills such as project management, design, architecture, engineering, environment, energy, construction, planning, accounting, financing, fundraising, law, surveying, building contracting, property management, housekeeping, residential support, tenant selection, building maintenance, and more.

We need you to be members of the society and some of you to become Directors at the next AGM (in April/May), but we need many more of you to volunteer on committees to address specific parts of the upcoming project. We need your enthusiasm and commitment, or else this society and its worthwhile objective will fall apart and fail. When we have made so much progress on a shoestring, I think that would be a pity.

Membership forms are available at EyesOnBC (The Beacon office). For more information call Sally Barton at (250) 757-8455 or email bshs@shaw.ca. ~ *“Our Area” includes all of Area H in the Regional District of Nanaimo and a large part of Area A in the Comox Valley Regional District. Currently there are no ‘Independent-Supportive’ housing units for seniors between Qualicum Beach and Union Bay.

WHAT DO WE CALL NATURE?

By Nancy Whelan

A

re we part of it or outside of it? Who is in charge? Do we agree on what it is?

What is our attitude toward it? Is it friend or enemy? Do we or it frequently change sides?

It took some reading to get to a dictionary definition that could fit: “The sum total of all things in time and space; the entire physical universe.”

The day is long past when we should have been paying more attention, giving Nature more respect for its generosity on our behalf.

When humans in our culture began trying to understand Nature, they carved it up into pieces we could handle. This still left us in the dark about its convoluted connections, or the big picture, so to speak.

That seems to put us smack in the middle of it, but how many of us look at nature as ‘something out there’? Depending on the culture in which we grew up, most of us put ourselves apart from the ‘natural world’. We may stand in awe of some of its marvels or shenanigans but we tend to think of us, i.e. humans, as being in charge – if not of the universe, at least here on Earth.

Now most of us are aware of our place in Nature; there’s curiosity and motivation to learn and do more; to understand Nature and our place and responsibilities in it. We see some of our mistakes and some are absolutely beyond our correction; some could be fixed only with massive changes of heart, habit, and dedication. But some can be mitigated or repaired and even prevented by our individual and group learning and efforts.

For the most part Nature has been reasonably patient with us late-coming upstarts to her regime, but every now and then she blows her stack and puts us in our place. But when the horror, grief and dismay have waned, it’s back to business as usual for the humans and Nature rumbles on in the background, for the most part ignored, except when it gives us an unexpected gift or another left to the jaw that we should have seen coming.

Rather than feel defeated and frustrated by the often dismal picture of Nature on a worldwide scale, we can zero in on parts of the puzzle in our own communities here in Oceanside. There is no lack of opportunity if you want to get involved.

The Arrowsmith Naturalists Club is an affiliate of the Federation of BC Naturalists, known as BC Nature, and by extension Nature Canada. BC Nature’s guiding principle says it all: “Know nature and keep it worth knowing”.

The Arrowsmith Naturalists meet monthly, except in the summer, at Parksville’s Springwood Middle School and every meeting includes a speaker or presentation to extend members’ knowledge and participation in the natural world. Several times a month local outings are led by knowledgeable members to seek out and study local natural or man-made features, birds, or trees, plants and flowers. Every December, members participate in the Christmas Bird Count – a Canada-wide effort to track the numbers of native birds, and you’ll always find them at our local Rivers’ Day.

Many Naturalists’ Clubs, Arrowsmith being one, sponsor Young Naturalists’ Clubs (which just celebrated their 10th anniversary) to introduce young people to the joys and intricacies of Nature, and August’s annual “Kidfest” in Oceanside is another big Let’s start with the Arrowsmith Naturalists, a attraction. group with members throughout the district. continued next page

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/ February 2011

A once-private estate by the sea has become another haven for Nature and the works of humankind combined. Milner Gardens and Woodland, in Qualicum Beach, includes 60 acres of old natural forest, and 10 acres of cultivated gardens. Together, their opportunities are almost unlimited.

Adults can learn gardening and propagation skills as garden volunteers, and the natural and human history of the property if they choose to become docents. Throughout the year, Milner offers education with courses and workshops, entertainment, and spots for peaceful meditation in its natural, tranquil setting.

Well known for its children’s programme, “Shoots with Roots”, its director and her well-versed adult volunteers, have classes from local schools plants and care for their own gardens, learn of the flora and fauna in the surrounding forest, practise survival skills, and generally become comfortable and happy in the outdoor, natural world. They have produced colourful and informative signs to mark items of interest along Milner’s forest paths. I dare any adult to read them all and not come away with something he/she didn’t know before.

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The above are but two of the local organizations devoted to helping us know and preserve Nature. And know it we must. I quote a character in Diane Ackerman’s book “The Zookeeper’s Wife”, a rabbi in a Polish WW II ghetto who said, “Before annihilation comes an exile from Nature, and then only through wonder and transcendence, may one combat the psychic disintegration of everyday life.” ~ There are a variety of ‘Nature” organizations in Oceanside to choose from that will welcome your participation: Arrowsmith Naturalists Arrowsmith Watershed Coalition Society Coal Watch Friends of French Creek Conservation Society Fanny Bay Enhancement Society Heritage Forest/Brown Property Preservation Society Lighthouse Trail Group Milner Gardens and Woodland Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Reserve Mid Vancouver Island Habitat Enhancement Society Nile Creek Enhancement Deja-Vu Society Decor Oceanside Coalition for Strong Communities Qualicum Beach Streamkeepers VIU - Deep Bay Centre for Shellfish Research

CALL FOR

GRANT PROPOSALS The Parksville-Qualicum Community Foundation is accepting proposals from Community groups that are Registered Charities in District 69.

Grants are made once a year for initiatives that: Promote volunteer participation; Enhance community self-sufficiency; Are innovative; Build on community strengths; Promote co-operation between Groups.

Proposal Deadline: March 19, 2011 Grant decisions will be made April 21, 2011

Proposal Applications are available by calling 250-752-7502

FIRST CLASS AND REGISTRATION FANNY BAY

Wednesday February 2nd • 10:30am - Noon O.A.P. Hall #127, 418 Ships Point Road Revision 1 Proof 250-757-2097 or 250-240-3387 parksville@taoist.org www.taoist.org/parksville The Taoist Tai Chi Society was founded by tai chi and guangdong Master Moy Lin-shin. The society is a registered charity and provides instruction through qualified volunteer instructors.

M

ost people think that aging is irreversible and we know that there are mechanisms even in the human machinery that allow for the reversal of aging, through correction of diet, through anti-oxidants, through removal of toxins from the body, through exercise, through yoga and breathing techniques, and through meditation.

- Deepak Chopra / February 2011 21

GETTING SET FOR FARM TO TABLE SEAFOOD IN DEEP BAY

VIU EVENT TIES IN WITH RESPONSIBLE INDUSTRY SUMMIT

by Lisa Verbicky

T

he snow has melted into swimming slush puddles when I pull my hatchback onto the rough drive down to the Vancouver Island University (VIU) Marine Field Station in Deep Bay. The project’s coordinator, Brian Kingzett, has already warned me to park near the entrance to avoid being stuck on the craggy road if the weather should change again.

A ten-minute slog and one soaked boot later, I’m at the front entrance of the station, crossing over a metal bridge, through a set of newly hung doors and into chaos.

The soon to be lobby is obstructed with newly unwrapped stainless steel kitchen appliances. Husky men in hard hats are dangling from scaffolding and poking out from behind beams and freshly hung drywall. “The lights are working downstairs,” shouts one worker over the din of a concrete polisher. “Is it on yet?” yells another as he and his crew stare at the ceiling. Yellow caution tape warns of low headroom at the top of a set of stairs.

Multi-coloured electrical cords zigzag across an unfinished floor, leading to some far off recess of the unique clam-shaped building that was conceived seven years ago.

I navigate over scrap wood, past curious looks, and a friendly chocolate lab to find Brian in his new office, empty except for a desk and laptop. It’s ‘go time’ for Kingzett, the site’s superintendent Greg Herle of Heatherbrae Builders, and their crew of 60, now in the home stretch of completing one of the nation’s foremost LEED Platinum

Vancouver Island University (VIU) Marine Field Station in Deep Bay  Lisa Verbicky photo

built buildings, just in time to host it’s first event on January 29th as part of the International Seafood Summit, held in Vancouver January 31 to February 2.

Part of the summit’s annual ‘in-the-field’ program, the dry-run dinner event is sponsored by local Fanny Bay Oysters and Taylor Shellfish of Washington State.

About 70 guests, including big names in the North American and International seafood industry, NGOs, friends of VIU, and

Oceanside Place 250-248-3252 Ravensong Aquatic Centre 250-752-5014 Register online at:

WWW.EYESONBC.COM 22

/ February 2011

www.rdn.bc.ca

international media will get the full farm to table experience with tours of Baynes Sound shellfish farms and a gourmet seafood dinner presented by acclaimed chef Xinh from Xinh’s Clam & Oyster House in Shelton Washington, as well as students from VIU’s Culinary Institute.

“We’re about four months behind schedule,” says Kingzett, at the time only two weeks continued on page 32

Drop by to meet Chrissie and share your ideas for recreation programs!

Contact Chrissie Finnie, Recreation Programmer at the Bowser office 250-757-8118 or email cfinnie@rdn.bc.ca

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/ February 2011 23

It’s Burger Month!!

36 BURGERS TO CHOOSE FROM

World famous, delicious gourmet burgers coming for the month of January and February

Visit these fine restaurants and food outlets on the Internet for a peek at their complete menus and more ...

Fanny Bay Inn

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Deez Bar & Grill

www.deezbarandgrill.com

Fish Tales

www.fishtalescafe.com

24

/ February 2011

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/ February 2011 25

NANCY WHELAN

WORDS ON THE WIND

By Rita Levitz

“I

was looking through the “W” words in the dictionary for something to go with ‘Whelan’ for my newspaper column,” Nancy Whelan explains, “when I came across ‘williwaws: an unpredictable wind that can come up without warning,’ and I thought perfect, that would allow me to write about anything that comes to mind, so I adopted it.” Winds also send fresh air into all sorts of unsuspecting places, rustling and stirring things up, something Nancy accomplishes in writing and in person.

Many people know Nancy Whelan from her regular column in the Parksville/Qualicum News, or from her monthly Through the Seasons articles in the Beacon. She is known to others from her pre-retirement life as a teacher, her community involvement, her outgoing nature and her signature smile. Few would suspect that at one time Nancy was painfully shy.

“My first job was in a bank in my hometown of Cobalt, Ontario. I had to deliver drafts to the stores in town. I just hated doing it; I was so petrified of people I could barely look anyone in the eye. I also stood at a Crachit-height desk balancing this monster-sized cash book, with all the banking transactions for the day.”

????? ~ Ritz Levitz photo

Nancy Whelan  Rita Levitz photo Cobalt was visually the opposite of everything Nancy holds near and dear today. “It’s a mill town with no nature to speak of, just bare, rocky hills and slimes which are solidified lakes from having been pumped full of arsenic-loaded mine tailings. In spring, when the snow melted, we’d go jumping on them. It was like jumping in jello, but if you broke the surface tension you’d be into it up to your knees, and you knew you’d be in trouble when you got home.”

Luckily, Nancy’s father had a cabin on an island on Lake Temagami. “We spent every weekend there. It was lush with pines, birch and cedar anchored by volcanic rock, real Tom Thompson country.”

Teacher’s college, followed by marriage, took up some of the ensuing years. “I taught for one year in Ontario – fortunately I‘d signed my teaching contract just before I got married – otherwise, a married woman would only be given a temporary contract, year after year.” continued on page 29

26

/ February 2011

SOUNDS

BRAD PREVEDOROS

PERFORMS AT THE ACOUSTIC CAFE The real magic of Brad Prevedoros is the man himself…the moment this performer touches the strings he far exceeds expectations… go listen to him live.” - Grant Hayter-Menzies - Black Press Group Music Critic

F

rom Galiano Island on Canada’s beautiful West Coast comes this extraordinary acoustic guitarist. Brad Prevedoros is renowned for his instrumental virtuosity, exuberant live performances, original compositions and innovative interpretation of works by other composers. His repertoire of multi-genre music engages his audience through a mix of Jazz, Latin, Pop, Classical, Celtic, and Folk.

Since 1988 Brad has released ten internationally distributed recordings and sold over 400,000 CDs. In 2000, the title track from his recording “Firedance” was selected to be in the “Best Of The West” collector’s edition titled “Go West - A Vital Collection Of Western Canadian Music”. Brad Prevedoros’ next album “In Motion” was nominated for a 2003 Western Canadian Music Award for Instrumental Album of the Year. In 2006, through public vote, Brad won Vancouver Island’s Monday Magazine Performer’s award.

Tracks of his recordings have been included in over twenty music compilations throughout the world.

Brad has performed on live television and radio, his music can be heard regularly on CBC national and regional radio. It can also be heard on college and co-op radio stations throughout the world.

His original compositions have been used in television, theatre and commercial video productions.

Save the Date: February 4 at Qualicum Acoustic Cafe at the Rotary House on the corner of Fern and Beach Roads in Qualicum Beach.

Doors open at 7pm and we have sold out by 7:20 pm every month since October 2010 so be there early. $5 entrance. ___________________________

WORKSHOPS AND CONCERTS Feb 13-14 Workshops and house concert at the home of The Beatons in Qualicum Beach with The Paul McKenna Band, from Scotland.

Scots Trad Music Awards 2009. Best Up and Coming Act. Combining their love for traditional and folk music as well as original songs and tunes, the Paul McKenna Band has been playing to audiences throughout the UK since 2006.

With a contemporary approach to songs, although not straying too far from their roots, their arrangements are both fresh and innovative.

Their exciting sound is created through outstanding vocals, driving Guitar and Bouzouki, intense Fiddle playing, a warm pairing of Flute and Whistles and dynamic Bodhrán and percussion.

Workshops and concert $20 each. Contact Joyce Beaton jbeaton@ shaw.ca for more information. / February 2011 27

Our tide table measurements are taken from the Denman Island substation. For other tides, visit http://www.waterlevels.gc.ca/ english/Canada.shtml on the Internet.

FEBRUARY 2011

DO YOU KNOW IT ‘BY HEART’?

By Joanne Sales

I

f our minds are allowed to ramp about on their own without us watching, we will hardly think one complete sentence throughout the course of the day. One thought begins and another thought interrupts, like rude dinner guests.

Given that state of affairs, it is no wonder that humans throughout history have clung to poems and prayers to memorize and recite, songs to sing, mantras to repeat, and affirmations to remember. I would like to say a few things in defense of memorization and recitation. (Is that archaic or what?)

I was teaching a yoga class to high school students in 2001, the year of the attacks of 9/11. For their final exam, I asked students to recite from memory a prayer, inspirational poem or directive that was meaningful to them. Why? At the end of the movie The Crucible, one man and several women were about to be hung as “witches” while the town watched. As their last act, the “witches” spontaneously repeated the Lord’s Prayer together. On 9/11, we are told that a man on the plane about to crash over Pennsylvania, using a cell phone, asked a woman at air control to pray the Lord’s Prayer with him, which she did.

Memorization does not substitute for understanding, but it has a value of its own.

Somehow memorization went out of fashion. My father-in-law could recite pages of The Song of Hiawatha that he learned 70 years before.

After a stroke, my mother could not even speak her own name, but she could sing along with songs and hymns she had learned as a child. As for my generation? I don’t remember ever being asked to memorize anything except the multiplication tables. I learned the value of memorization on my own.

Our ancestors could recite whole books – usually sacred scriptures and stories of meaning. Many of those “books” were never written; they only existed in the minds and memories of those who carried their legacy. Later writing was developed, and slowly, overwhelmed by the abundance of words, we forgot our ability to be the parchment ourselves, to carry the words which we treasure inside our own being. But even today, I know people who can chant Sanskrit for two or more hours without repeating themselves.

But why? For the same reason that my mother memorized poetry while ironing, with five young children at her feet. She wanted to have those seeds of sanity and meaning inside of her, even in the midst of the chaotic routines of parenting. Her goal was to know it by heart. To remember in her heart when her mind forgot. continued on next page

28

/ February 2011

continued from page 26 Images & Voices Our ancestors could recite whole books – usually sacred scriptures and stories of meaning. Many of those “books” were never written; they only existed in the minds and memories of those who carried their legacy.

continued from previous page There are things that we want to remember. There are understandings that we want to develop. There are inner places we want to spend our time, but we forget and our minds wander. We want to put forth consistent messages into the universe – which we can call prayers or intentions. We want to get from the beginning to the end of one train of thought without forgetting that we started.

We do know how to do things by heart. We drive, open cans of beans, restart our computers, and a million other routines without thinking twice. But there is another purpose for learning something by heart, other than ease. Once we have something memorized and mastered, then we have the potential to transcend the routine and take it to another level. That is the secret of real art and deep realization.

In today’s society, we spend our mind-time being entertained or talked to by total strangers over media channels that could blow away in a good wind. We want to be aware of what is going on in the world, but still, our minds are our responsibility. The words that flow across our mental screen have consequences, and we personally gather the fruit of the thoughts we entertain.

This is why memorizing carefully chosen, verses, hymns, prayers, poems and songs will serve us well, as they did for those who went before us. (Yes, songs work!)

It is a fun project to go out on the hunt for what is worthy to store in my mind forever! What words do I value that much? The search alone is worth the time.

Remember this nursery rhyme? “The King was in his counting house counting out his money.” The King counted money because he hadn’t found real treasures to fill his days. Real treasures are available. We can gather them, learn them by heart, and recount and recount them, again and again. The goal is to immerse ourselves frequently in streams of thought that we love. That is how we dye cloth, and that is how we colour our minds.

We memorize words so that you can bypass the words and get to the heart of the matter. Once we’re at the heart of the matter, we don’t need to say a thing. ~ A longer version of this article is available at www.joannesales. com. Joanne Sales is an organic blueberry farmer, writer and EFT Counselor living in Qualicum Beach. joanne@glasswing.com

Three years and three children later, in 1960, the family moved out to BC, first stop Victoria. “Thirteen days of driving a ’47 Pontiac pulling a homemade trailer,” she laughs. “Wagon’s Ho! with Dave, Becky and Kip in tow.” Nancy taught in Sooke, until son Fred was born eight months later.

Other teaching jobs followed, (as well as a two-year stint at the Entrance Island Lighthouse) and by 1966 Nancy began what would be over twenty years of working in the Parksville/Qualicum School District.

Most of her teaching years were at Horne Lake School, a name that either calls forth memories or triggers puzzled looks when people hear it now. “It was a one-room schoolhouse, with Grades One, Two, and Three. I was scared out of my wits, having come from a twelve-room school! I was the principal and the only teacher.”

By the time Nancy retired, she was more than ready to embark on new traveling adventures with her second husband Jack, and what would turn into somewhat of a new career. “I’d always had writing aspirations. I’d sent out a query to Canadian Geographic about doing an article on the Deep Bay earthquake and on the very day I handed in my resignation to the school board, Jack telephoned to tell me that my story proposal had been accepted.”

Nancy’s years with Jack were pivotal to her blossoming self-confidence. “I started writing down what I was seeing and thinking during our travels, and Jack encouraged me. He was a big booster of getting on with things –‘Just do it!’ I’d spend more on postage getting my articles to the Parksville/ Qualicum paper than I was getting paid!”

Nancy is a natural story-teller, always inviting her readers in, always leaving them with food for thought. Using just a few pertinent details she can create a picture in the mind’s eye…as an artist can create a whole image from merely a few suggested lines.

“I was up early the other morning, standing here at the window. It was just starting to get light, and I looked at the trees, the sky, the clouds. I can get impatient with these short days, but there is something to be said for this time of year. I picked up a handy scrap of paper and started jotting things down…” Soon more insights from Nancy’s unique perspective would be ready to be shared. ~

/ February 2011 29

IT’S HAPPENING IN AREA H

FROM THE DESK OF DAVE BARTRAM Email: dwbartram@shaw.ca PH: 757-9737 • FAX: 757-9705

By Dave Batram, RDN Area H Director Community Volunteers: A special thank you to the following Area H community spirited residents for volunteering to serve on several Regional Board Advisory Committees.

Area H Parks & Open Space Advisory Committee: The Regional Board has appointed Barry Ellis, Maggie Little and Valerie Weismiller for two year terms.

The purpose of this committee is to advise the RDN Board on the development and creation of new community parks and trails in Area H. This committee is currently seeking another volunteer for a one year term. If you are interested please call me.

RDN Grants In Aid Committee: Patty Biro has been appointed for a one year term as a member of the Grants in Aid Committee. This committee is tasked to recommend grants to various community groups.

Agricultural Advisory Committee: Keith Reid has been appointed for a two year term representing the Shellfish Aquaculture Community.

Lighthouse Community Centre Lease: The RDN Board has approved the lease agreement with the Lighthouse Community Centre Society (Hall Board) for a 10 year term.

Reception Centre Emergency Generators: The RDN donated/installed emergency generators at the Bowser Legion and the Lighthouse Community Centre Emergency Reception Centres.

These generators are now operational and were funded through Regional District, Federal and Provincial grant programs and community fundraising initiatives.

Bowser Village Centre Sewer Study: The seven property owners in the Bowser Village Centre who participated in paying for the study met with the RDN and the consultants to review the status of the study. The study should be complete in February 2011 and will include various options and costs for wastewater disposal.

The property owners stressed the need for modular wastewater disposal options to make the system affordable in the short term but with a vision toward the future.

Drinking Water & Watershed Protection Watershed Snapshot Report: After two years of gathering information from technical experts, groundwater professionals and at community workshops the RDN has produced an assessment of the seven major watersheds in the Region. The report represents a summary analysis, key recommendations for action, and records key themes from community workshops and will be available on the RDN website

for information and comment. The three water districts’ Boards will be briefed on the report separately by RDN staff in March.

Development Permit Applications: The Electoral Area Planning Committee has approved permits to excavate and revegetate a portion of the property at 3800 Horne Lake Caves Road; and for additions to an existing cabin and the construction of an accessory building at 3844 Horne Lake Caves Road. The RDN Board has approved Bylaw 500.366 – in preparation for the construction of 10 Seniors Units at 280 Lions Way by BC Housing.

2011 RDN Board Appointments: As your elected representative on the RDN Board of Directors, I have been appointed by the Board as Chair of the Electoral Area Planning Committee and the Emergency Management Select Committee and as a member of the Executive Committee, the D69 Community Justice Select Committee, the Sustainability Committee, the Drinking Water and Watershed Protection Advisory Committee, the Fire Services Advisory Committee, the Regional Parks and Trails Advisory Committee, the Area H Parks & Open Space Committee, the D69 Recreation Commission and the Deep Bay Harbour Authority. ~

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/ February 2011

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ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION Submitted by Qualicum Medicine Centre

E

rectile dysfunction (ED) is a common problem. It is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. By the age of 50, about half of all men have experienced erectile dysfunction. This condition is a subject men are quite reluctant to talk about.

An erection results from a combination of brain activity, nerve impulses and hormones that affect the blood vessels in the penis. When any one of these factors is interrupted, an erection may be difficult to achieve or maintain.

Possible causes: • Nerve Damage. Sometimes surgeries to remove prostate cancer can damage the nerves of the penis. Multiple sclerosis or trauma to the genital area can impair the ability to have an erection.

• Other Medical Conditions. Diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease can affect the small blood vessels in the penis leading to erectile dysfunction. Kidney disease or a pituitary tumour may affect the hormone balance leading to erectile dysfunction. ED can be an early warning sign of developing or worsening medical conditions.

• Medications. The following categories of medications have been linked to ED: antidepressants, anti-psychotics, heart medication, anti-convulsants, acid suppressing medications and hormone treatments. Talk to your pharmacist.

• Lifestyle. Drinking alcohol, smoking and having a sedentary lifestyle with little exercise can increase the risk of ED. • Mental Health. Depression, stress, anxiety, and relationship conflicts can also be related to erectile dysfunction.

Barbara Rady RMT Registered Massage Therapist

Managing Erectile Dysfunction: 1. Stop smoking. Within six months over 50% of men who quit smoking noticed improvements in the erectile dysfunction.

Avoid excess alcohol consumption.

2. Keep in contact with your doctor. ED is often an early sign of cardiovascular disease. The inability of having a satisfying erection can be due to impaired blood flow to the penis, which can signify heart problems. Early detection and treatment of potential artery and heart problems is very important.

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3. Exercise more. A regular exercise program can be as basic as walking for 30 minutes each day.

Treatment options: Oral Medications. Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors help improve and maintain blood flow to the penis when there is sexual stimulation.

• Injections and Penile Suppositories.

• Devices. Vacuum pumps can be used to draw blood into the penis creating an erection. Penile implants can be surgically placed into the penis.

• Counselling. Sometimes ED can be caused by stress, depression, anxiety or other social issues. A psychologist or therapist can help. ~ / February 2011 31

continued from page 22 away from hosting the event. “But, with the Summit in Vancouver, we didn’t want to pass up a great opportunity to showcase our facility and local shellfish growers. It will be tight, but, we’ll get it done.”

This year’s ninth annual international summit “Responsibility Without Borders” will bring together the seafood industry and conservationists to discuss how to make the seafood industry economically, environmentally, and socially responsible.

“The summit is a key forum that inspires productive dialogue towards helping today’s global business leaders, policy makers, producers, scientists and partners in the environmental movement critically examine the factors influencing progress towards a sustainable seafood market,” says a press release on the event.

“It’s a big deal,” says Kingzett of the summit that drew over 640 participants from 46 different countries last year in Paris.

The summit, says Kingzett, is an opportunity to collectively discuss “big picture” issues such as global seafood supply, demand for cheap seafood, labeling, global changes in ocean environments, and global labour standards.

“Global capture fishing has leveled off,” says Kingzett. “We can’t sustainably continue to fish. The question for the industry now is one of food security. Quite literally we are now asking, ‘Can we feed the global population?’”

The answer at this point is likely in aquaculture, now pulling in about 50 million metric tonnes per year globally.

The overriding issue is two-pronged, says Kingzett. “How do we balance our appetite for cheap seafood in the West with the social and environmental costs that threaten the supply?”

In developing nations, poverty overrides sustainability, wages are low, conditions might be deplorable and getting enough protein to eat per day trumps consideration for long-term sustainability, says Kingzett. It’s a problem faced by many global industries.

For example, he says, how do you bring people out of poverty? Buy their cheap seafood, right? But, how do you do that without passing on the environmental impacts, and work conditions in underregulated parts of the world?

The market has more power than government to change the industry, says Kingzett, pointing out that governments around the globe often support unsustainable fisheries.

“The key is to use market channels to drive sustainability. We need to buy local seafood and create local employment, while we work with other nations to help them become more sustainable and profitable. We have to look at the choke points in distribution starting with the responsible consumer, and then industry will follow.”

Social responsibility, he says, comes from being a ‘good neighbour’ by ensuring that no one stakeholder’s interests stand alone.

Globally, this means not being complicit in the exploitation and environmental degradation of the waters harvested in developing nations to satisfy our appetite for cheap food sources, he says.

Locally, it means development of best practices in shellfish continued next page 32

/ February 2011

The kitchen’s finished  photo courtesy Vancouver Island University farming that will not pollute or harm the local coastline. It also, means that development along the coastline must considered in terms of it’s effects on run-off into Baynes Sound.

The BC shellfish industry, says Kingzett, raises the bar for the rest of the industry in terms of sustainable practices and research, giving the province the opportunity to be global leaders in sustainable aquaculture.

The Deep Bay Marine Field Station is geared to be a centre for dialogue, research, and community outreach for coastal communities and it’s inclusion in the summit is a good fit, he says.

The role of the station is to facilitate discussion and understanding, to educate future graduate students who will likely fan out across the globe sharing their knowledge of the industry, and to

promote the idea of becoming a ‘localvore’ – eating farm to table and supporting local economies, says Kingzett.

“The timing of this event is very important, and we’ll be ready.”

VIU will be holding open houses of the new Deep Bay Marine Field Station in February and March. For more information, visit http://www.viu.ca/deepbay/index.asp. ~

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Qualicum Beach Town Hall • Linda Tenney photo

By Marilyn Dawson, Reporter

T

he first council meeting of the year and it’s a full house! Is this a sign of what’s to come in 2011? Certainly the calendar is filling up with matters surrounding the Official Community Plan and there seems to be an element of angst around the whole process. As well, the proposed changes to Memorial Avenue are also causing discontent even before final plans are published.

Part of the gallery overflow was attributed to the Grade 4 class from Arrowview Elementary School who trooped into the chamber en masse to request the Town’s approval and help in painting footprints on the path which runs near the school.

Each member of the Garbage Busters Club read a sentence or two of their request to be allowed to paint the footprints and add an environmentally friendly message with a little help from Town staff. Even the most cynical in the room would have been hard pressed not to be impressed with the enthusiasm and good behaviour of the youngsters. Council listened, and as is the custom, Mayor Teunis Westbroek told

34

/ February 2011

the group the Town would consider the delegations’ request.

The Town will also be looking at a request to increase, not lower, the speed limit on Memorial. Last fall, after a delegation of 41 presented a request to cut the limit on Qualicum’s main street to 40 kph, Council did just that. Not fair to the merchants, said business woman Maria Perpick, as she presented a petition signed by 600, who fear the lower speed will take drivers elsewhere.

She said the RCMP had told her the roundabout on the edge of town had already done its job in slowing traffic.

The proposed changes to Memorial between the downtown core and the beach were also the focus of the Qualicum Beach Residents’ Association. President Scott Tanner told Council that the group acknowledged the need for a redesign and the challenges to the downhill project, but there was concern about the width of the bike path and also the incompatibility of bikes and pedestrians. Why not move the bike path over to Berwick, only a block to the east?

Later, Engineer Bob Weir explained that so far there have been no detailed plans

announced, that Council had to this point only a concept plan to work with, a fact that may have been clear to Mr. Weir and staff but not to the general public.

This element of confusion seems also to surround the OCP review and what it means to the future. Chief administrator Mark Brown alluded to this stressing the need to recognize the difference between a concept plan (i.e. OCP) and a Town bylaw. The OCP is a “vision thing”, not necessarily engraved in stone. Councillor Mary Brouilette asked that Town staff show some respect to those who attend the next round of OCP meetings and give them a chance to participate. At the last meeting in December, Mark Holland the consultant hired for the process, talked so long there was little time for discussion.

Many residents felt they were being stonewalled, their ideas ignored.

TAX DOLLARS AT WORK: It wasn’t on the agenda, but this information came in response to a question. Financial officer John Marsh said doggy bags, those greenish bags placed around town to encourage poop pickup cost $1,000 a month. Qualicum Beach residents don’t let valuable stuff lie around. ~

latest fund drive last fall. Amazed, I met with CHLY’s sole full-time employee, Program Manager, Dylan Perry, to find out more.

“It’s definitely surprising just in the short time I’ve been at CHLY how the fund drives have grown,” Perry begins. “This last one was the most successful ever. We do two a year – one in the fall, one in the spring – and while I’ve been there, almost three years, the fall fund drives traditionally do worse. Last year we had almost fifteen grand pledged, but we’re almost double that this year.” (I am unsure of the final figure as we go to press, but when Perry and I talked in December it was just shy of $27,500.)

“The growth in terms of donations from the community has really ramped up quite a bit, but it’s hard to say exactly what’s behind it,” he continues. “I think it’s a combination of a bunch of factors, but I do think people might feel the quality of programming has improved over the last couple of years.”

One very evident factor as I see it is the intimacy of interaction CHLY encourages and engages in with its listenership. US radio legend Himan Brown (1910-2010), a producer of some thirty thousand programs in a sixty-five year career, hit the nail on the head when telling Newsweek in 1974 that, “TV just feeds you. Radio involves you.” CHLY is more than happy to involve listeners in its programming as directly as is achievable, a fact Perry emphasizes in the way he describes the station’s modus operandi.

David Morrison photo

CHLY: BUCCANEER RADIO

By David Morrison

L

ast summer I read an excellent book about the pirate radio scene in this country. Besides bearing a strong local focus regarding subject matter, authorship and publication, Islands of Resistance: Pirate Radio in Canada (New Star Books, 2010) is a thought-provoking anthology of stories illustrating the myriad possibilities that radio as a medium of communication and entertainment can offer. Although it does of course deal strictly with, as it were, ‘off the grid’, unlicensed broadcasting, often with specific agendas and aims, the book serves to provoke a whole new school of thought concerning the potential of radio in general.

What is clear, especially in commercial radio, is that the surface of what can be achieved in the medium has barely been scratched. Seriously, some of the inspiring programming concepts discussed in Islands of Resistance are simply amazing. Most of all, the book highlights what should be

fundamental, yet is so often overlooked in the corporate radio arena, being that the true value of any kind of radio station to its community depends on its level of interaction with that community.

In the mid-90s a group of students at VIU, then Malaspina University-College, founded a radio club that, long story short, evolved into the Radio Malaspina Society and CHLY. Not a pirate station, of course, yet nonetheless enjoying a similar degree of autonomy, CHLY has down the years evolved into a treasured institution in Nanaimo and way beyond.

Staffed (almost) entirely by volunteers and (largely) dependent on donations to survive, the station exists on a permanent financial knife-edge. That it has remained on-air for so long is surely testament to CHLY’s value to its community, a sentiment expressed in a remarkable public response to the station’s

“CHLY is ‘community access radio,’” he says. “Basically, the people that live in this community – Nanaimo and the surrounding area – can have easy access to a place where they can voice their opinions, their taste in music…and when we say the word ‘accessible,’ it really is. Quite often, even on a weekly basis, I will see someone come down to the station and within five minutes they’re on air talking about issues.”

Another obvious factor endearing the community to CHLY is the diversity, intelligence and depth of programming available to listeners. It is not so likely when tuning into 101.7 FM that you will continued on page 36 / February 2011 35

continued from page 35 encounter the music of Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Enrique Iglesias or anything else receiving heavy rotation on commercial stations. This has nothing to do with elitist exclusivity, but everything to do with supporting music and airing opinions that are not, or are very rarely, covered in the mainstream. There is a strong emphasis on local and alternative homegrown talent across the musical spectrum, thereby offering a platform from which independent artists can build a fan-base. World music and more challenging genres, too, are given plenty of airtime.

licence, what our mandate is, to the actual business structure of the society itself, to how we’re funded,” clarifies Perry. “In terms of the governing structure, there is no owner per se, as it’s a member-driven society. All the big business decisions are made by a board of directors voted in by the members, and the main difference is that CHLY is 99% volunteer-driven. We don’t have employees or any kind of corporate structure.”

donations – and that still brings in a huge amount – but in conjunction with that we’ve also done what most non-profits do, where you go around and ask family and friends and co-workers to support the cause you’re involved in. That’s worked well, too, adding a good chunk of change to the drive itself.”

Note how Perry refers to CHLY as a ‘cause’. This is an interesting noun to choose, especially as this description Yet despite CHLY’s longevity and place reflects the mentality of every person I’ve in the community’s heart, the precarious ever met that is or has been involved in financial position it exists within is a CHLY in some way. It is a passion for the permanent one. Necessity being the mother volunteers, as they see their station as a of invention, even though to the public fund- vitally important service to, and forum for, raising is visible only twice a year, the hard their own community. It would seem from “In terms of freedom on-air, because we’re work in attempting to generate vital funds the support they receive that the community not driven by commercial advertising it never stops. To this end, if CHLY could wholeheartedly agrees, buccaneer allows us to not worry so much about what’s receive donations every single day, they broadcasting spirit and all. ~ ‘popular’ per se,” Perry explains. “I would would gratefully accept them. definitely say we push the boundaries quite Listen to CHLY on 101.7 FM or streaming a bit, and while we are not a pirate radio “We operate on something like the annual online at http://chly.ca. Support CHLY by station, perhaps we are ‘buccaneer radio’?” wage of one managerial position in a making a donation to become a member he suggests with a chuckle, referring to my commercial radio station – the whole of the Radio Malaspina Society. Further enthusiasm for Islands of Resistance! thing – and every cent gets soaked right information can be found at the CHLY up,” says Perry. “The money does not website (URL above) or by calling the Radio The freedoms CHLY enjoys and appreciates go far. There’s, rent, heat, maintenance, Malaspina Society on (250) 716 3410. stem from its formation from a radio society, equipment and transmitter costs, publicity, which in itself presents a neat model for a More information on the book Islands of the website… the list goes on and on. But democratic community!

Resistance: Pirate Radio in Canada is to help we’ve changed the fund drives a bit. available at http://islandsofresistance.ca and “We are completely different (to commercial For the last two we added a new component. www.newstarbooks.com stations) from top to bottom in terms of our Traditionally we’ve done the on-air plea for

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FEBRUARY GARDENING INSIDE & OUT Q: My house plants are looking dusty. What is a safe way to clean them without causing any damage?

A: Cleaning houseplants is a very good idea.

In fact, it’s essential so that they can breathe and absorb light! Large-leafed plants like Philodendron, Dracaena, and the Rubber Tree benefit from being wiped gently on both sides with a moist soft cloth. If plants are small enough to move, you can cover the soil surfaces with a bit of foil or plastic wrap, then take them into the shower for a quick ‘rain shower’ of cool water, not hot.

Always check for pests like fungus gnats, scale, and aphids regularly and keep plants misted if they like moisture. In general, water your houseplants less in the winter and don’t use fertilizer until spring.

Q: The Geranium I brought inside to overwinter is looking very leggy with spindly growth. What am I doing wrong? I thought it was a good idea to bring it in.

A: It’s a wonderful idea to bring it in since it would die outside. Most homes don’t have enough light to maintain the light it requires, so actually you haven’t done anything wrong. Cut back the leggy growth to a node on the stem, and then leave it alone making sure you don’t over-water. Before putting it back outside, you’ll probably cut it back again. Alternatively, if you like, geraniums need 12-14 hours of artificial light to maintain their vigor through the winter which makes a nice project to set up.

Q: What’s your advice about things to do in winter when the weather is nice?

A: Good for you for getting out there on mild days. There is plenty to think about and do. Certainly, continue to tend any winter vegetables you are growing. Walk around your yard looking at everything, noticing details, any changes. If it has snowed, check for damage. If snow has spread limbs of columnar and fastigiate shrubs, tie them

up until the spring. Trim off any broken branches and don’t leave stubs which invite infection. Also look for frost heaving of your newly planted or transplanted perennials and small shrubs. You will notice the plant has raised itself out of the ground which is not good. It will need to be replanted to the correct depth on any nice day you can dig.

When the ground is frozen like it has been lately, or if it gets very wet, you won’t be able to replant or weed because walking on the ground destroys its texture. However, soil in our area doesn’t freeze deeply, so if it isn’t covered with snow or soggy wet, it’s safe to work when the temperature rises above zero. A good idea is to get ahead of opportunistic annual weeds like Cress which will bloom before you get to your spring clean-up, and the perennial weed, Ranunculus, which can easily get out of control. You can also cut back anything that was missed in the fall clean up since some things were still blooming when that snow arrived in November.

It’s important to keep your pruning tools in good condition so ensuring you clean and sharpen all your tools is another useful task to do in winter. With your clean tools, you can turn your attention to your fruit trees.

Prunus family should have been pruned in November after the leaves had dropped, but they can be done now on nice days while the trees are still dormant. Now, is the correct time to prune your apple and pear trees before they bud out.

Don’t forget to care about the birds during winter. Feeders can be cleaned between fillings to prevent diseases from spreading while bird populations may be weakened during the cold months. I hope our readers participated in our local December Bird Count. Since they are an asset in every garden, monitoring and protecting birds is vital.

Winter is always a great time to be planning and reading about the plants you’d like to add to your garden in the spring. Make sure you learn enough to meet each of their individual needs regarding location, their neighbours, and soil, light, and water conditions.

Order your seeds early because popular and rare varieties may sell out quickly. ~ Harry Sumner is a certified arborist & garden coach. Gardening questions are welcome at 250-248-4512 or shellms@ telus.net.

Ducks Unlimited would like to thank the Oceanside Committee and all of its supporters for a successful fundraiser on Saturday, November 13, 2010. Special Thank you to the Royal Bank Staff from Qualicum and Parksville Braches who assisted with the event.

We apologize if we have missed anyone.

AAL Cat Equipment Co. Ltd. Access RV Mark Adelborg AGF Mutual Funds AGS Business Systems Alberni Outpost All in One Bobcat All Marine Arbutus Emporium Arrowsmith Golf & Country Club Arrowsmith Greenhouses Arrowsmith Mountain Cycle Arrowsmith Moving and Storage Atlific Hotels & Resorts Lenore Bailey Baileys in the Village Bank of Montreal Bears Matter Berk’s Intertruck Bernard Callebaut Chocolates Best Western Westerly Hotel Beyond Ordinary Blue Heron Steel Studio Blue Star Trucking Boston Pizza Bowser Woodworking Brigadoon Golf Course Brown-Eyed Susan’s Buckerfields Terry Burgess Cafe Brie Canadian Tire Casa Grande Inn Cherry Point Vineyards Chuck’s Automotive Clam Bucket Restaurant Cloverdale Paint Coast Realty Group Robert A Cole Comtech Solutions Coombs Country Candy Costco Wholesale Rick Cott Creek House Restaurant Creekmore’s Coffee Critter Cove Marina & Resort Crown & Anchor Pub Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community Robert Davenport Deez Bar & Grill DemXx Deconstruction Inc. Domino’s Pizza Ducks Unlimited - Chilliwack Committee Ducks Unlimited - Oceanside Ducks Unlimited - Vancouver Committee Sean Durrell Eaglecrest Golf Club Emerald Island Gems Evelyn’s Barber Shop Express Custom Trailer Manufacturing Inc. Fairholme Manor Fairwinds Community & Resort Falcon Crest Imports Falcons Crest Bed & Breakfast Fanny Bay Inn Fanny Bay Oysters Fanny Bay Trading Company Fenceline Products Ltd. Eva Feuersenger Finesse Auto Detailing Marnie Finstad

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Fish Tales Cafe Four Winds Bed & Breakfast French Creek Seafood Ltd French Creek Shell Galloping Gourmet Giovanni’s Resterante Glazer Construction Richard Goldney Debbie Goodman Green Thumb Nurseries Kim Hancock Harbour Towers Hotel & Suites Henry’s Kitchen High Rollers Fishing Charters Highwood Distillers Hilliers Gourmet Foods Hopfingers U-Brew & Winery Independent Shipwrights IRIS Island Chauffeur Island Escape Esthetics Island Scallops Jim’s Gym Ted Jolda Ken-Dor Garden Centre & Florists Bob Klaassen Koers & Associates Engineering Ltd. Tom Lamont Larry Aguilar Pottery Lefty’s Cafe Lesley’s Esthestics & Accessories David Liddiard Ian Lindsay Little Dog Shop Little Qualicum Cheese Works Long Beach Golf Club Lordco Parts Limited Jeffrey Lunter Mack Sales & Service Naniamo Marriott Vancouver Pinnacle Hotel Albert McKewan David Mellor Merridale Ciderworks Mid Isle Veterinary Hospital Milner Gardens & Woodland Moxies Kevin McCulloch Mulberry Bush Book Store Naked Naturals Natural Pastures Cheese Co Ltd Nile Creek Clothing Co Nootka Sound Services North Pacific Window Adrian O’Connor

Oasis Renovations Oceanside Chevrolet Oceanside Clothing Company Rob Ohs Olde Nanaimo Brewery Ollivanders Cafe & Pizza House Our Glass Shop Gerald Ozero Pacific Western Brewing Company Paradise Adventure Golf Parksville Bodyworks Parksville Chrysler Parksville Jewellers Parksville Qualicum Fish and Game Assoc.

Parksville Redi-Mix Parksville Safety & Auto Centre Pharmasave Pheasant Glen Golf Resort Pizza Hut Pope & Sons Precision West Resource Consultants Ltd. QB Arts Qualicum Animal Hospital Qualicum Bay Nursery Qualicum Beach Florist Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf Course Qualicum Pet Foods & Grooming Quality Foods Ltd. Queen Victoria Hotel Quest for Colour Ltd. Rainforest Adventure Tours Inc. Raintree Emporium Ltd Rainy Crick Wines Barry Rathburn Rawthentic Eatery Raymond James Ltd. RBC Financial Group RBC Royak Bank, Nanaimo Regional District of Nanaimo Carol Richens Ridgeview Motor Inn RiverRock Casino Resort RLB Logging Rodway & Perry Marg Rose Sam’s Sushi Bar Save On Foods Sea Change Open Studio Dawn Setter Shady Rest Pub & Restaurant

Shar-Kare Shear Bliss Haircare Salon Sherwood Riding Centre Shoppers Drug Mart Shur Catch Fishing Charters Dianne Shuttleworth Valerie Shuttleworth Sidney Tire Ltd Laszio Simon Sims Associates Land Surveying Ltd Slegg Lumber Smashin’ Glass & Anything Art Co Smithfords Sooke Harbour House Barbara Sort Spunky’s Motorcycle Shop Starbucks Coffee Nora Stephens Sushi-Mon The Backyard Wildbird and Nature Store The Cobbler’s Bench Footwear Clinic The Final Approach Restaurant The Garden Gallery The Medicine Shop The Source The Wine Works Thrifty Foods Thwaites Norris Insurance Services Ltd. Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort Timberwest Forest Corp.

Two Eagles Lodge Universal Handling Equipment Ltd Dianne Upper Valhalla Pure Outfitters Margaret van Rhebergen Vancouver Island Carving Company Village Squire Vintage Candy Wal-Mart West Coast River Charters West Coast Wild Whites What’s Cooking Wholesale Sports Outfitters Windsor Rentals Yesterdays Child Antiques Ray Zboyovsky

Red Door Gift Shop in Qualicum Beach

Now Offered for Quick Sale WANTED – Wool Donations for Seniors Complex. Drop off Feb 6 - 12th at Georgia Park Store, Bowser. FMI Call 250-757-9577.

BOWSER HOUSE FOR RENT – Spacious, furnished 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom rancher 2 km from Bowser.

Fenced yard. Short walk to beaches, access to hiking/biking trails. NS, references and damage deposit required. $1000/month. FMI Call 250757-8986.

SPOTTING SCOPE – 30 x 75 and case Optolyth made in Germany. $150. FMI Call 250-757-9930 MODERN 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH GROUND ORIENTED SEMIDETACHED GROUND LEVEL HOME – $1,600 per month in Parksville.

Private entrance fenced yard and decks; parking for two vehicles and storage shed. Open plan living area; gas fireplace, lots of light, Kitchen with island and pantry; DW/Fridge/Stove/ Washer/Dryer Master with walk-in closet, full bath; two smaller bedrooms share second bath. Contact Lynn Wood at Oceanside Hospice 250 752-6227 or lynn@oceansidehospice.com MEMOIRS ARE FOREVER – Don’t let your history slip away. The sweetest gift you can give your loved ones this Valentines is to preserve your life story.

Call Jane for help with any part of your memoir project 250-335-1157 or 888330-8366. See www.memorablelines. com for details.

FIRST RATE MASONRY – Over 13 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 L.L. LOU GROOMING – Student Pet Groomer: Student rates $25 full groom under 25lb dog $50 full groom over 25lb dog. FMI Call (250) 757-8773. Monday to Wednesday.

Just $20,000

Including all stock and fixtures Call Linda 250-752-7978 Immediate Possession

WILDWOOD COMMUNITY CHURCH 113 McColl Road, Bowser

Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 am 757-8136 TYPEWRITER WANTED – $100 for a late model portable manual typewriter in good working condition with case and 2 unused ribbons. Offering $10 each for 3 additional unused ribbons for same. Call Larry Williams 250-650-2144 COAL CREEK FARM on MacArtney Drive in Fanny Bay has naturally fed, free range duck, chicken, turkey and goose meat available various times of the year. Please call for availability – ask for Paul or Christine 250-335-1322.

BAREFOOT HOOF TRIMMING A correct barefoot trim can improve your horses overall health and well being.

Certified trimmer now accepting new clients. Reasonable rates and discounts offered. FMI Call 250-752-8380.

FIREWOOD For your year-round firewood needs call

Dale 250-757-9276 West Island Energy Ltd. FOOTCARE – HYGIENE Soaking feet, cutting nails, filing callouses, treating dry skin – fingernails too. Reflexology – 1 hour sessions. Home visits. Please call Vikki @ 250-757-9244 DON’S HOME REPAIR – plumbing repairs and installations, complete renovations, no job too small. Call Don @ 250-757-8757 or cell 250- 951-8757 STAMP COLLECTIONS/ ACCUMULATIONS WANTED – Mint or used, will take all, cash or consignment, top prices paid. Call Russ at 1-250-3141021 or email at ingruss@telus.net

PICK-UP AND DELIVERY – Tune-ups and repairs to riding lawnmowers and all small engines. Buy and sell used equipment. Call Ron 250-240-1971 e-mail: ronmorrison100@gmail.com THERAPEUTIC FOOT REFLEXOLOGY – Sessions $50 for 75 mins my home.

Home visits are available. Release your body’s self-healing ability through deep relaxation. Please call Marie at (250) 335-0850.

THE CANADIAN SOCIETY OF QUESTERS – Next meeting will be on February 28, 2011. Tim Findlay, time traveler and remote viewer, will speak about the astro plane and what to expect after we die. FMI call Chris at 250-752-1419.

IF YOU ENJOY OUR MAGAZINE, IT’S OUR ADVERTISERS WHO MAKE IT HAPPEN! WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO SHOP LOCAL FOR YOUR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES!

/ February 2011 39

Aries (March 21-April 19) Last summer, lucky Jupiter quickly visited your sign. But now it’s here to boost your confidence and help you to believe in yourself. The last time Jupiter was in your sign for a good run it was 1999-2000. But for many, that was a time when you underwent a financial squeeze.

(Ouch.) Now you are powerful! This good fortune and wonderful influence comes you at a time when you’re just beginning to spread your wings. Expect a month ahead of increased popularity. However, partnerships will continue to be challenging. (Oh, that.)

getaways and vacations plus fun with sports and don’t stand a chance.) This is a great month for you to playful times with kids. Yay! This means it’s a fun-loving shop for wardrobe items. You like what you see in the month for you, but you need to get your rest and you mirror. (Think Risky Business.) need to be patient with partners.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) It’s time to earn Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You’re gung ho to be money, figure out ways to boost your income, and efficient, effective, and productive. You’re carrying a spend money to earn money. Naturally, some of stopwatch and making lists. People close to you are just you will spend money to get what that cash will going to have to get used to it. Not only will you want buy. Either way, your cash flow will be accelerated! to get better organized at work, you want to redecorate This is definitely your year to make money through at home as well. This could be due to entertaining real estate. This could be real-estate speculation, or plans or potential real-estate negotiations. buying and selling your own home, or enhancing Taurus (April 20-May 20) This is the only time of Partnerships are upbeat, reassuring, and supportive. your own property by investing in it or improving the year when the Sun is at high noon in your chart Look forward to more support (financial, practical and it. In fact, everything to do with your home scene is acting like a spotlight on you. Not only does this emotional) from partners later in the year. What a going to be unusually rosy this year. Family will be attract attention to you, especially in the eyes of wonderful life! a source of joy and mutual generosity. Your family parents, teachers, bosses and VIPs (incidentally, this might even expand.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) You are destined to have includes the police), this great lighting makes you the most fun month; you win hands down. You Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) With both the Sun and look wonderful in their eyes. That’s why you must couldn’t pick a better time for a vacation than the Mars in your sign, you’re revved! Use your dynamic demand the advantage! Go after what you want. Ask next six weeks.

You want to relax, flirt, enjoy little enthusiasm to sway others or convince people to do for approval or permission. Make your pitch. You’ll be drinks with parasols, under beach umbrellas on white what you want. People might even be in awe of you. surprised how well you will be received. (You’ll be like sand.

Exciting sports events, romantic liaisons, playful Plus, important people and fortunate circumstances a hot knife cutting through butter.) times with children and opportunities to express your are attracted to you. You’re out there walking your Gemini (May 21-June 20) This month, you’re creativity are all items that are tops on your menu. You talk! Friends and groups are unusually supportive. (A gripped by wanderlust and a yearning for adventure! want fun and you want to be adored! Your sex drive is friend could become a lover.) Your money scene looks You want to travel, explore more of the world, and definitely amped. (Sounds good to me.) I say, buy sexy strong. This is a powerful time for Aquarius. The joke learn something new. Anything to do with higher duds to set the scene. is, it’s getting better in the next few years! education will appeal. You’ll enjoy going back to Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) This is the time of year Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) The month ahead is school or taking a course. You’re brimming with when your focus totally turns to home, family, your the perfect time to regroup. You need time alone, ideas and enthusiastic about everything. Fair Venus, domestic life and your private world.

However, there preferably in beautiful surroundings with hot and directly opposite your sign, makes partnerships and will be chaos and increased activity at home due to cold running service (you wish). Why? You need to close friendships sweet, diplomatic, and affectionate. renovations, visiting guests, or just general busyness. formulate what you want your new year (birthday (Gosh.) New love could blossom.

This chaos can provoke conflict with family members. to birthday) to be all about. We’re all subject to Cancer (June 21-July 22) This month your passion Be cool. Remember your objective. You want to be wish-fulfilling prophecies. But you are susceptible is super-enhanced. You feel sexy and turned on! happy, right? Enjoy shopping for beautiful goodies for more than other signs. Your belief about what you are However, your passionate nature extends into other yourself and loved ones. Get ready to super-improve worth and what you can attain totally dictates what areas as well. This is why you’ll defend your turf and your job in the next six months. And your health! comes to you. It’s important to think about what is be territorial about your share of things. Discussions possible in your future. ~ Sagittarius (Nov. about inheritances, insurance matters, jointly22-Dec. 21) Get ready held property, taxes, and debt will demonstrate for a busy six weeks of this! It looks like you’re bringing a fresh intensity short trips, hustling and to everything in your life. (Not just the bedroom.) bustling, buying and Fair Venus can attract working flirtations and new selling, reading, writing, relationships connected with work. studying, talking and Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) First off, get more sleep. The promoting. All the stuff Sun is now as far away from your sign is it gets all that you do best! You’re so year, and the Sun is your source of energy. You need upbeat and enthusiastic rest. Furthermore, fiery Mars now opposes you, which about things, you will creates tension with partnerships and close friends. out-talk, outsell, and Fortunately, fair Venus encourages social invitations, outsmart anyone. (They flirtations, the enjoyment of the arts, weekend 40

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BUSINESS INFORMATION CENTRE We encourage you to “shop local” whenever possible. Below is a list of local businesses that offer a variety of services and products for your personal and professional needs. Tell them you saw their listing or ad in The Beacon. And, if you use and can recommend a local business or service, we ask you to share the news with your neighbours, friends and family. Your positive referrals will ensure a strong economy in your community. And that’s important!

Our Advertisers

Category............. Ad Page

EyesOnBC

Business Centre.............................. 22

Arrowsmith Automotive

Automotive Services..........................17

Career Centre

Business & Education........................45

Jennifer Hubbard, Solicitor, Notary Public

Business & Financial Services..........40

NR Insurance Services

Business & Financial Services..........23

Wisdom is Within Coaching

Business & Personal Coaching.........20

Handy Sandy Services

Maintenance Services.......................44

Ethereal Splendor Healing

Health Services.................................46

Medicine Centre

Health Services.................................31

Jonathan Martin CCST, CRRP

Health Services.................................20

Nurse Next Door, Peter Coulter

Health Services.................................46

Tracy Hebert R.M.T.

Health Services.................................46

Camelot Electric

Home & Garden Services..................46

Camelot Excavating

Home & Garden Servies....................46

Gemini Technical Services (Appliances)

Home & Garden Services..................46

Horne Lake Electric

Home & Garden Services..................45

Lighthouse Trucking Ltd.

Home & Garden Services..................45

Northpacific Window

Home & Garden Services..................18

Witte Construction

Home & Garden Services..................45

EyesOnBC (in Bowser)

Copy / Fax / Office Services..............47

Re/Max First Reatly - Setter & Associates

Real Estate........................................26

Peter Mason Land Surveyor

Surveying & Land Information...........45

The advertisers listed here also have their business cards and brochures racked with us at The Beacon office in our Community Information Centre.

If you require further information about any of the businesses noted above, please feel free to call or stop by our office. We support local business and firmly believe in the power of networking.

Open Mon to Sat 9:00 to 5:00

Phone 752-8483 144-2nd Ave W. Qualicum Beach / February 2011 41

Community Events LIGHTHOUSE COMMUNITY CENTRE (LCC) Qualicum Bay - INFO: LOIS NELSON: 757-9938 Pancake Breakfast, Flea Market, Live Music, Veggies, Poultry & Small Animal Swap, Master Gardeners: – Sun Feb13th, 8am-noon. The Hall Board will be cooking up breakfast this morning.

The Road to Financial Freedom…

We’ll Show You the Way! See us Today!

Lighthouse Seniors #152 – Next meeting Mon. 11:30am Feb 7th – at the Lighthouse Community Centre FMI call Shirley at 757-2384 Lighthouse Floor Curlers – Curling every Mon. & Fri. at 1 pm at the Lions Rec Hall in Qualicum Bay. New members welcome. FMI call Dennis Leach 250-757-8218 or Tillie Murray 250-757-9218.

Carpet Bowling at LCC: Oct – April 12:45 to 3:15pm.

Tues. and Thurs. Everyone welcome, exercise and fun, come out and meet your neighbours. FMI Call Layne 250-757-8217.

AA Lightkeepers: every Fri. 8pm.

Info: 250-757-8347 Bridge at LCC Nordin Room – 1 - 4pm Friday afternoons. Call Ann: 250-757-8194 Taoist Tai Chi Society Classes at LCC and Fanny Bay OAP Hall. FMI Susan @ 757-2097 Lighthouse Trails Group needs your help. Val Weismiller: 757-9667 LIGHTHOUSE RECREATION INFO PATTY: 757-8366 shipshore@shaw.ca Men’s Drop in Floor Hockey – Tues. evenings from 7:00 – 9:00 pm at Bowser School. FMI Call Kevin Bull @ 757-8423 Adult and Teen Badminton (13+) – Bowser school gym Monday evenings, 7-9 pm. Drop-in fee: adult $3, students $1 racquets available, beginners welcome. Info: 250-757-8307, steelehunt@shaw.ca

RDN PROGRAMS Please note it isn’t too late to join any of these programs, if there is space. Your fees will be prorated.

CHILDREN Girls and Boys Just Want to Have Fun 6-11yrs Wednesdays, 3-4:30pm Jan 26-Mar 9 Bowser School $45.50/7

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YOUTH & ADULT Hatha Yoga 16 yrs + Tuesdays 9:15-10:30am Jan 25-Mar 15 (LCC) $68.70/8 and HST; Thursdays 6-7:15pm Jan 27-Mar 10 (BES) $60/7 and HST If you have eight friends and would like to try a fitness, scrapbooking or other type of program, please contact me and I will work hard to find an instructor at a time and reasonable cost that will suit your group.

Please contact Area H RDN programmer, Chrissie Finnie, at 250-757-8118 or cfinnie@rdn.bc.ca for detailed program and registration information. All programs must be pre-registered to avoid the disappointment of being cancelled.

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS & CLUBS Eaglecrest Oceanside’s Garden Club meets 7:30pm Feb. 16th QB Civic Centre. Speaker Kristi Ozero, a certified horticulturist, “Garden Design”. All Oceanside residents welcome. FMI 250-752-5315 Dinner and movie at Fanny Bay Community Hall Feb. 26 6pm. Movie: Jewel of the Nile. Dinner: Lamb, couscous, salad, falafels, mint tea – all for only $7; kids 12 and under $3.50. FMI 250-335-3282.

Give yourself the Valentine present that keeps on giving. Love yourself and come and check out the TOPS Open House hosted by the Fanny Bay chapter of TOPS 3462 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Tues Feb 15 OAP Hall, Ships Point Road at 10am. FMI call Joan 250 335-0194. Weekly Tues. meetings, new members are always welcome to join our friendly group.

Qualicum Beach Garden Club Meeting – Feb 8th 7 pm at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. Guest speakers: Luke Sales, Town of QB, “Close to Home – Sustainability and Gardening in Qualicum Beach” and Owen Bridge, Annapolis Seeds, “The Importance of Seed Saving and Diversity”.

A massed choir concert “Sing a New Song in Praise of our Creator”, sponsored by Knox United Church Music Ministries on Sunday, Feb. 27th, at 7 pm will feature choir music and solos by Dan Damon, composer, jazz pianist and his spouse Eileen Johnson. Tickets $15, at Knox Church 345 Pym St. PV. The Damon/Johnson duo are also conducting a workshop on Sat Feb.26th for music directors, singers and anyone interested in new music for worship. For registration information or mass choir participation call 250-248-3927.

February 2011

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN FEBRUARY !

BIG COOMBS DANCE 4U! with The Elderly Brothers (Rocket 88)! Sat. Feb. 26, 8pm to midnight, doors open 7pm.Coombs Community Hall (rodeo grounds) 2595 Alberni Hwy. Tix $15 @ The Shoe Inn, Cranky Dog Music, Back Road Java Coombs General Store. $20 at door, snacks & free munchies. FMI Doug 250-752-8505. Sorry no minors.

Oceanside Recital Series presents: Soprano Szu-Wen Wang and Pianist Dr. Nikolai Maloff Feb.20 3pm, McMillan Art Centre, 133 McMillan Street, Parksville. Tickets at door $15. FMI 250-248-7296 www.vancouverislandopera.com Mid Island Floral Art Club meets on Thurs Feb 10 at 2 pm, St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 150 Village Way, QB. Demonstration of basic and advanced floral designs. All welcome.

Guest fee $5. FMI 250-248-2976 or 250-752-2179 www.mifac.org Neil Simon’s Barefoot in the Park at the Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Road, Nanaimo, Feb 2-19, 8pm, matinees Feb 6 &13, 2pm; for tickets, 250-758-7224, www. nanaimotheatregroup.com, Seadrift Fish Markets, Nanaimo Museum Join us for a Living Library of Spirituality and Faith: Explore faith and identity with living books. Feb 9 from 6pm - 8pm at the Parksville Library, 100 Jensen Avenue East. FMI (250)248-3841. Feb 11 from 2 - 4 pm, at the Qualicum Beach Library, 101-660 Primrose Street. Info (250)752-6121. Through the Living Library readers will have an opportunity to borrow books for twenty minute conversations. A book can be a Charismatic Catholic, a Tibetan Buddhist Monk, an Anglican priest, a Jew, a Sikh, a Catholic nun, a Muslim or a Druid. These are free events and everyone is welcome.

Mark this on Calendar! Lifering Weekly – Alcohol/drug discussion meetings.

Thurs at 7:30pm – upstairs at the SOS Centre, 245 W Hirst Ave, Parksville. No charge, non religious. FMI call 250-752-1058 or 250-951-7675.

www.rcl211.ca Feb 3 • LA General Meeting Feb 15 • Executive Meeting .......................................... 7:00pm Feb 22 • Branch 211 General Meeting Zone Annual Visit

CLOSED SUNDAYS

Hall Rentals 250-757-9222 • Mon to Fri 9:00 am - 12 noon

Feb 9 • LA Valentine’s Day Tea Feb 12 • Valentine’s Dinner / Dance

Belly Dancing Ladies’ Pool Crib Texas Hold’em Mixed Darts

Monday.............................................. 7:00 pm Wednesday........................................ 5:00 pm Wednesday........................................ 7:00 pm Thursday............................................ 7:30 pm Friday................................................. 7:30 pm

Fanny Bay Parents & Tots Play Group Mondays 10:15-11:45, Fanny Bay Hall. For children 0-5 and caregiver. Join us for songs, stories, early literacy activities, games, gym time, parent resources and a snack. Free event. FMI Evelyn 250-335-9022 Lighthouse Spinners – Every Tues. 10:30-2:30pm in the Community Centre Board Room. New members welcome. FMI Jo 250-757-8402 Dance To Timberline Band – Free, live old-time Country & Rock’n Roll music. Every Wed. 7:30 -10:30 pm Parksville Legion, 146 West Hirst St., Parksville. All welcome.

Beta Sigma Phi – an International Women’s Group promoting Life, Learning & Friendship. In the Oceanside area 7 chapters hold bi-monthly, day or evening meetings. FMI Margie Healey, 250-757-9125 “Living with Cancer Support Group” – 1st Thurs of month, Gardens at Qualicum Beach from 1:30 to 3:30pm. This group is not only open to cancer patients but also to their caregiver. FMI Rosemary at 250-951-2167.

9th Annual Seedy Saturday - “Eat Your Garden” – Qualicum Beach Civic Centre Sat, Feb 5th 10 am – 3:30 pm. Speakers: Linda Gilkeson, “Smart Gardening: Three Keys To Growing Your Most Successful Organic Garden Yet”, Chanchal Cabrera, “Growing Medicinal Plants and Herbs”, Dan Jason with Owen Bridge, “Saving Seeds”.

Special Pre-Show Presentation, Fri, Feb. 4, 2011 7:00 p.m. (speaker only), Linda Gilkeson,”The Bugs In Your Garden: The Good,The Bad and The Beautiful”. Activities: Vendors (ATM on-site), Farmer’s Market, Seed Swap, Milner Garden’s “Shoots With Roots” Children’s program, Seedy Café, Door Prizes, and Raffles. Admission by Donation. FMI Call Sandy Glazier 250-752-9650 or email sandyglazss@hotmail.com or online at www.qbseedysaturday.com

Feb 3 • LA General Meeting........................... ........... 1:30 pm Feb 24 • General Meeting ............................................. 7:30pm

Feb 5 • Feb 5 • Feb 13 • Feb 18 • Feb 27 •

Ladies Auxiliary Luncheon $8 ...................................... 12 noon British Pub Food (after Meat Draw) $7 Valentine’s Day Brunch $15.......................................1:00 pm Pasta Night (after meat draw) $7 ............................ 6:30 pm Navy Days................................................................ 1:00 pm Join the Ladies Auxiliary. Call Dorothy 250-951-0220

Crib Ladies Pool Men’s Snooker Texas Hold’em Birthday Celebration Mexican Train Meat Draw

Monday.................................................. 7:00 pm Monday...................................... 1:00 to 4:00 pm Monday & Wednesday .......................... 7:00 pm Tuesday................................................. 7:00 pm 2nd Wednesday..................................... 4:00 pm Thursday ............................................... 1:30 pm Fri & Sat ................................................ 4:00 pm

/ February 2011 43

Sand & Gravel Topsoil Septic Systems Bark Mulch Driveway Chips Water Lines

Culverts Drain Problems

Accommodation

Septic Installation

Certified Septic System Specialist

Call Lauren & Save

44

/ February 2011

Plumbing & Gas Services

Military Surplus Pellet Fuel Sales

Drywall

Sewing Services Home Repairs

Handyman Services

Yard Services

Hypnotherapy

Electrical Services

Picture Framing

Home Improvement

(250) 757-8156 or (250) 954-8716

• Plumbing Service • 24 Hour Service • Licensed Gas Fitter • Licensed & Bonded REG #17630

Tel: 778-427-5163 • Cell 250-218-1789

Free Estimates • Reasonable Rates

XBox & GameCube

Ask our Staff for your hard-to-find titles Reservations Accepted

757-8353

#3 - 6996 West Island Hwy, Bowser

Excavating

Land Surveying

Quality Workmanship

Your Local Entertainment Centre

. New Releases . Great Library Selection . New & previously viewed movies for sale . Machine Rentals - N64, PSX & XBox . Game Rentals - N64, PSX, PS2

2003 Kobelco SK160Lc Excavator for Hire

Heating

GENERAL HANDYMAN

BOWSER

Interior Decorating

Ken Morgan

Movie & Game Rental

Home Repaire

Morgan’s Home Repairs

DEJA~VU DECOR CUSTOM DECOR & WINDOW COVERINGS

Call

250-752-8772

Witte Construction

ph. 757-9713 c. 927-2157 e. shaun.witte@gmail.com

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL ALTERNATE ENERGY

T.J. Farrell

250 • 240 • 7778

Plumbing Sand - Gravel - Topsoil

Heating & Cooling

Taping House Painting

tjfarrell@shaw.ca

105 Islewood Dr. Bowser, BC V0R 1G0

Career Counselling

WCB & Insured Shaun Witte Owner/Journeyman

Electrician

Construction

LTD

Handyman Services

Convenient In Home Appointments

/ February 2011 45

Healing

INSTALLATION SERVICE & REPAIRS

Philip Brown

250-240-4902 • 250-757-8077 EVENINGS

Barber Services

Home Care Services

Plumbing Gas Heating

Fitness Classes Home Healthcare

PLUMBING • GAS • HEATING

Home & Yard Care • House & Pet Sitting Home Support for Seniors & People with Special Needs 250-752-6734 Dini Owsianski info@serencare.com • www.serencare.com

INCLUDE YOUR AD NEXT MONTH

250-757-9914 46

/ February 2011

Lawn Services Electrical Services

.. Biodegradable Free .. Solvent Concentrated Phosphate Free

Appliance Repair

Tree Service Earth-friendly Cleaners

YOUR NEXT CLIENT IS LOOKING FOR YOU IN OUR SERVICE DIRECTORY

Excavating Services

Healthcare Advertising

Chimney Cleaning

BOWSER TO PARKSVILLE

Parts Store Open Mon to Fri 9-4

Join us for worship, prayer and fellowship with others from the community Sunday Worship 10:00 am

/ February 2011 47

• ESTATE • USED BOOKS • JEWELLERY • FURNITURE • COLLECTIBLES

FREE SCRAP METAL DROP OFF Artistic passion and insight from the shores of the Salish Sea 6881 West Is. Hwy., Bowser

250-757-8815

thebestthingsandstuff@gmail.com

#110-6996 W. Island Hwy, Bowser insight@salishseamarket.com www.facebook.com/salishseamarket

Pottery Glass Metal Wood Fabric Music Paint Literature Culinary Photography M-F 10-5 & Sat 11-4

778-424-2012

CLOTHING ART & GIFTS COFFEE SHOP & TREATS ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES PET SUPPLIES & PET FOOD FITNESS CLUB MEMBERSHIP MOVIES

Sweet Deals

BOWSER BOW OWSER • New N R Releases l • Great Library Selection • New & previously viewed movies for sale • Machine Rentals - N64, PSX, XBox • Game Rentals - N64, PSX, PS2 XBox & GameCube

www.powerhousefitnessclub.com

250.757.8353

#3-6996 West Island Hwy Bowser, BC V0R 1G0

6996 WEST ISLAND HIGHWAY (19 MINUTES NORTH OF QUALICUM BEACH 10 MINUTES SOUTH OF FANNY BAY)