Beacon Magazine Jan 2011 by EyesOnBC Publishing

January 2011 vol 6 issue 80

Community Living: Fanny Bay to Nanoose

A Spotlight on the Bigger Picture • 28 TrekOn! Taking the South Loop • 9

3 EDITORIAL 18

FEATURE

Georgia Nicols: You & Your Future

BUSINESS & FINANCE

5 Biz Banter: What’s up in local business 12 Real Estate

TrekOn! Taking the South Loop Lighthouse Country Regional Trail

Seedy Saturday: Planting the seeds of conscious food production

GREAT OUTDOORS

8 9 16 20

Seedy Saturday Trek On Through the Seasons Tide Table

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

“You and Your Future”

Georgia Nicols, Canada’s most beloved astrologer, tells all in her new book

“Deep Roots” - along the Lighthouse Country Regional Trail. Photo by Sharon Waugh

6 Inspired by Community 7 Graffiti: Denman Island’s Blog 13 Warmth, Welcome, Respect 23 The Art of Conscious Living 27 On the Agenda COMMUNITY PEOPLE

/ January 2011

4 Tales of a Fish Dish 22 Images & Voices – Kim Longmuir

HEALTH 25 Health & Wellness Matters

THE REGULARS

31 Classifieds 32 In the Stars 33 Business Information Centre 34-35 Community Events 36-39 At Your Service Index & Businesses

COMMUNITY LIFE

World Community Film Festival Shining a spotlight on the bigger picture

28 World Community Film Festival

IVAN SAYERS PRESENTS

“Clues to Dating Family Photographs”

by Linda Tenney

January 2011

VOLUME 6 NO 80 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, Connie Kuramoto, Gilles Leduc Volunteer - Cathy Balogh

Subscriptions

Canada - 1 yr: $30 incl HST United States - 1 yr: $55 (CDN Funds) Call 250-757-9914 to subscribe. VISA & MasterCard accepted Printed in Canada - ISSN 1712-0918 Articles and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and published for general information purposes only. Articles are not intended to provide specific advice - the publishers will assume no liability.

Articles and/or data may not be quoted or reproduced, in part or in whole, without permission from the publisher. Freelance Writers/Photographers: Queries can be directed to Linda Tenney or Sharon Waugh at beacon@eyesonbc.com

Linda Tenney co-Publisher tenney@eyesonbc.com

s we flip over the calendar page to a brand spankin’ new year, reflect for a moment upon the year passed. The trials, tribulations and triumphs that have brought you to this time and place. Good, bad or indifferent, the moments of 2010 and other years gone by, help us to tailor the years to come. So...what have you planned for 2011? For me, it starts with ripping open my ‘I want to do it this year’ envelope revealing a point-form ‘to-do’ list written in January 2010. I accomplished a few things on the list ... completely forgot about a few others ... and consciously ignored a couple. Maybe I’ll just carry-over the few I neglected, tuck the note back into the envelope and tape the thing shut until January 2012. Quick...but not very reflective. I ponder for a few minutes about things I should probably add to the list, and things I should remove. I even consider cutting up little bits of paper, shoving them into a hat and picking five random to-do’s to make up a completely new list. Creative ... but I’m just not into it. Yikes! Where’s my motivation for this new year’s requisite resolutions, hopes, dreams and goals? Gone! My plan for this year? I’m just going to follow my instincts, consider the possibilities, and open the doors of opportunity as they are revealed. Sounds good to me. No pressure...just a year chock full of living in the moment, for the moment. I wish you a year of inspired insight and exciting opportunities!

Sharon Waugh co-Publisher waugh@eyesonbc.com

f you missed seeing Ivan Sayers during his last visit, you will have another opportunity. Be sure to keep January 20 open on your calendar for 2011. If you don’t yet know of Ivan Sayers, here is your chance to familiarize yourself with his work. The Qualicum Beach Family History Society has invited him to give a workshop at the Civic Centre in Qualicum Beach. The workshop will run for three hours January 20, 2011 - 10am to 1pm. Ivan was a curator at the Vancouver Museum for twenty years, although his passion for ferreting out vintage clothing began over forty years ago. He will bring part of this collection to enhance his discussion on the changes in clothing styles over the last hundred years. He will help identify the dates of submitted photographs, by the clothing and location of same. We all have our nests of family photographs that we peruse once in a while. Most of them probably have no information attached. Always the questions: When and Where? With Ivan’s background in fashion history, part of his presentation will be to address this issue. Genealogists in our midst will be fascinated once more. We urge you to register early: on the web at www.qbfhs.ca or by email to info@qbfhs.ca. Members of QBFHS - $15 Non-members - $25 Membership to the QBFHS is $25 a year. Join now and save $10 on your event ticket. Submitted by Jillian Bennett [250] 752 7043 Publicity Director Qualicum Beach Family History Society

LOCALLY OWNED • COMMUNITY INSPIRED

Elizabeth Cudmore Customer Service cudmore@eyesonbc.com

Margaret Reid Contract Distribution margaret@eyesonbc.com

Frank Hladik Advertising 951-8824

Fish Tales Restaurant By Carolyn Walton “Fish and chips and vinegar, Vinegar, vinegar, Fish and chips and vinegar, Pepper, pepper, pepper, salt.”

TALES OF A FISH DISH

emember singing this round by the campfire? Not below the border, though. During a visit to New York’s Adirondack Mountains some time ago, we ordered fish and chips for lunch and when we asked for vinegar there was dead silence in the café while the waitress sang out: “Those people asked for vinegar!” Perhaps you recall the Beatles singing “I Feel Fine” while devouring newspaper-wrapped fish and chips in a film promo. This tasty take-away originating mid-19th century in England, which traditionally consisted of battered cod but sometimes of haddock, hake or plaice and deep-fried chipped (slab-cut) potatoes, was still a favourite in 1999 when the British consumed nearly 300 million servings! England’s famed “chippies” boast some eclectic names: “Oh, My Cod” and “A Salt & Battered”. In fact there’s The “Codfather”, a fish market on the wharf at Port Alberni specializing in smoked black cod. Here on Vancouver Island we can choose cod, halibut, salmon, or oysters for our fish and chips! Meet the new owners of Qualicum Beach’s Fish Tales Café, Phil Pascoe, wife Rachel, and daughter and son-in-law Rebecca and John Entz. Formerly open only in the evening, the restaurant now invites lunchtime diners to enjoy “all you can eat cod and chips” Wednesdays to Saturdays for $12. Phil and family took over Fish Tales last April from Kam and John Schroder who bought the property in 1993 in a bid to escape the hubbub of city life. The site where the café now stands was purchased by Art and Carrie Moore in the early 1940’s to start a raspberry farm. Axes, crosscut saws and gunpowder were used to dislodge the large tree stumps. In 1979 an English couple, Alan and Lily King, became new owners, converting the farmhouse into an English style tea room, naming it Tudor Tea Rooms.

Right to L: Phil & Rachel Pascoe, John & Rebecca Entz • Carolyn Walton photos

Phil Pascoe with a customer favourite A chip chef extraordinaire, Phil traces his involvement with fish and chips back to his youth in Porthleven, Mount’s Bay, Cornwall. “My father was a potato farmer, my mother’s brothers, fishermen so we always had lots of fresh fish and potatoes to eat. I vowed that one of these days I was going to put the two together.” He explained that during the war people kept their newspapers clean until Fridays, then took them down to the local “chippy” where he filled them with 3/8” chips made from Maris Piper potatoes and either battered North Sea cod or haddock, shake on the salt, pour on the vinegar as desired, then wrap them up for the price of one shilling, six pence. As there were no burgers, pizzas or hot dogs in those days, this was the “fast food” of the times. Living near Penzance, Phil grew up listening to lots of pirate tales. “On Kenneggy Sands, they would cut the top off the rock so it would run out to low water and cut grooves in the stone for cart wheels. Then they’d tie a light on a horse and have it walk back and forth across the head of land causing ships

to believe it was another ship, head that way and crash into the cliff where the pirates lay waiting in caves that ran for about a mile up to a local farmhouse. They’d tap on the trap door in the kitchen and emerge with the loot! When it was a rough sea often the wind would rush up the tunnel and the kitchen floor would actually lift up! This was big business in Cornwall and the law gave them wreckers’ rights, so the pirates would illegally cause the shipwrecks but legally gather the spoils!” The family emigrated to Calgary in 1987 where they ran fish and chip booths in the food courts of four malls. During a visit to Vancouver Island in 2006 Phil discovered that Fish Tales was for sale and the rest, as they say, is history. Chef William Bennett has stayed on, Phil and John assist in the kitchen which now boasts state of the art equipment for grilling and frying. ~ Fish Tales • 250-752-6053 www.fishtalescafe.com PS: Recommended by the Beacon Team!!

/ January 2011 4

By Sharon Waugh hether you want increased meaning in life or have decided to finally tackle what has been bothering you for years, seeking counselling may be the next step. Depth psychotherapist Diane Hancox has recently opened Core Counselling in Parksville and specializes in Jungianbased therapy, workshops and groups. She feels her Depth/Jungian Psychology focus really helps clients connect symptoms and issues of everyday life with underlying unconscious influences and is proud to be one of the few Jungian-based therapists on the Island. Diane invites you to attend the interactive and informative upcoming workshops being held in the community. Dream Study & Esteeming Your Self groups will also be offered and are a great place to enter into the wisdom of the unconscious. Explore her informative website (www. corecounselling.ca) for more information. Please refer to Diane’s ad on page 10.

change for the McPherson Group. Look for Glen McPherson and Carol Gregson at their new office as part of the Royal LePage franchise in Parksville. Same e-mail and cell numbers, but a new location and new direction for this team. Royal LePage has been expanding and an opportunity presented itself for Glen and Carol to become part of this dynamic group. Look for the same excellent service. Give them a call! See Carol’s ad on page 18.

n collaboration with Sheena McCorquodale, Cindy Mawle has been busy painting walls, floors and moving her art studio contents from her home to “The Studio at Qualicum Bay”, 5320 West Island Hwy. She plans to be fully engaged in creating by January, and is planning to have her doors open three days a week to the public. Cindy also plans on teaching beginner drawing and painting, utilizing the nine years art instruction experience she gained while living in Alberta. Cindy will be working in the studio before Christmas, so if you don’t want to wait till January and the sign is out, the artist is in! If you have any questions or are interested in signing up for classes, Cindy can be reached at 250-7031150.

ALL THE BEST

in 2011

Check out our January Sales

“S

implifying your dinner time.” Why don’t you get what you need delivered right to your door? Angela, of Kay-D’s Dine-In Delivery, tells us that it is as simple as 1,2,3...One, call your favourite restaurant and place your dinner order under the name Kay-D. Two, Call Angela with your info (250-240-9229). Three, relax...your dinner will delivered to you directly from the kitchen of your favourite restaurant. Kay-D’s serves the area from Nanoose to Qualicum Bay, delivery fees apply, major credit cards and debit are accepted at your door. So, what’s for dinner tonight? ~

Marketing & Advertising

EyesOnBC Community Info Centre A few spots are still available in the EyesOnBC / Beacon Magazine In-house Community Info Centre for racking your business cards, rack cards or flyers! Call 757-9914 for more information. FROM $10/MONTH

It’s where locals and visitors find their service people!

THERAPEUTIC SKIN CARE

Your Local Day Spa Now Also Available for

“MOBILE MONDAYS”

New Year! New Nails! Call about our Gel Nail Specials. Suite 202–6996 West Island Hwy. Magnolia Court in Bowser

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– Serving Bowser for 5 Years – / January 2011 5

e would like to thank the Coastal Community Credit Union for sponsoring us. We were able to purchase a measuring device for our bonspiels and the Seniors Games playdowns. Your donation was very much appreciated. ~ From the Lighthouse Floor Curlers

THE LITTLE SCHOOL THAT COULD: BEACHCOMBERS COMMUNITY SCHOOL

re you familiar with the children’s story of the Little Engine that Could? Loaded with food and toys for children, the little engine with a big heart climbed the mountain chugging, “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can.” Reaching the crest of the mountain and descending to the children in the town below it chugged, “I knew I could, I knew I could, I knew I could!” The start of Beachcombers Community School has sometimes felt like climbing a mountain; but the rewards have been tremendous. It has taken hundreds of unpaid hours by parents and educators to start a small school in the Comox Valley. BC Ministry of Education inspectors have commended Beachcombers for our environmental education, the deeply respectful way

/ January 2011

teachers speak with students, and for our vision. Our school is breathing life and passion into education for students in the Comox Valley and Qualicum regions. Beachcombers has a focus on coastal science and sustainability. We are a school where students can be passionate about learning, be good community citizens, and be environmental stewards. Our new location will be in the old offices of the water bottling plant, across from the Fanny Bay Government Warf. This building is gutted and is receiving a comprehensive renovation. Currently, we are operating out of the Fanny Bay Hall. As the hall is also used by the community, teachers and families pack and unpack classrooms every single day. It has taken tremendous commitment. Please help us build our school! We are seeking your support. Any donation, no matter how small, is greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Please contact: Zoe Lambert, School Coordinator, 250-335-0583; 778-427-4005; 250-218-2102 ~ submitted

KEEP KWALIKUM SECONDARY SCHOOL OPEN

e are a group of concerned parents and community members. We have come together to address the possible closure of Qualicum’s only high school, Kwalikum Secondary School.

We will gratefully accept cash donations and building materials. Donations can be made out to: Beachcombers Education Society, 360 Stelling Rd, Fanny Bay, V0R 1W0

As a group we have formed a website to share valuable resources, links and important information. This web site will also provide everyone an opportunity to help and share ideas to prevent the closure of KSS.

Beachcombers provides free advertising on our website for company donations, and will publicly thank donors in local newspapers.

We support public education. We want you to visit our site: www.keepkss.com ~ submitted

DENMAN ISLAND’S GRASSROOTS BLOG

THE GRAFFITI FENCE

raffiti may be technically illegal in Canada, but things are a little different on top of Denman Island’s big hill. This is the site of Denman’s famed Graffiti Fence. Since long before the age of blogs, social networking and on-line bulletin boards, we Denman Islanders have been “posting” our thoughts, invitations, exhortations, artistic expressions, congratulations, manifestos and more on this 35-metre long, two-metre high strip of wooden fencing. No one knows who owns the fence; no one controls its ever-changing display, and no one, as far as I know, has ever publicly complained about it. The Graffiti Fence is democracy at its most grassroots – a free, open, unmoderated public space for communication. It lets us talk to each other, tell our stories and shape our community. It’s the most basic of media outlets, simple, colourful and radically accessible. Most Denman Islanders seem to love the Graffiti Fence. To research this article, I put out a word-of-mouth request for stories and information, and within days I had far more than I could use. The fence is important to people. They remember the thrill of writing on it, of being moved, entertained or provoked by something someone else wrote. They remember the way the fence commemorated a transition in their lives – graduation, marriage, a major birthday, a death. They remember their favourite works of fence art; they remember items that disturbed them, others that made them laugh. The fence is often an interactive art space, with new people altering its contents to fit their purpose. For instance, a beautiful flamenco dancer advertising a summer dance show becomes part of a promotion for a Hallowe’en party – the artist has painted her skeleton showing through her red dress; her now-bony hand points towards new text telling us when and where the event takes place. Or people just have fun with it: one spring, the words “In short, all good things are wild and free” appear, a lovely quote from Thoreau. In summer, someone adds an “s” to

/ January 2011

By Laura Busheikin

the word “short,” making us all laugh. Then, come winter, someone else changes “free” to “freezing,” leaving us with the seasonally accurate, “In shorts, all good things are wild and freezing.” The fence can also be profound. A friend of mine describes his most enduring memory of it: “I remember the day that Denman Island’s forested lands [approximately 1/3 of the Island’s total area] were sold to a private logging company. The next morning, the words “THE TIME TO ACT HAS COME” were painted in glossy black paint on the entire length of the fence. It was powerful, poignant and political. Everyone read and felt the message. It was the first day of a long and hot summer that brought the island into a series of stand offs and road blocks with the logging company as the community rose valiantly and courageously to the challenge.” Louise Bell, one of Denman’s two elected representatives to the Local Trust Committee, its governing body, remembers the first time she contributed, back in the summer of 1993, during the campaign to Danni Crenna photo stop logging at Clayoquot Sound. Bell took part in the blockades, and also, one day when she couldn’t be at Clayoquot, she and local artist Jude Kirk painted a fence panel. “I wrote “Save Clayoquot Sound” in a line of lettering that was anything but straight. Painting a line of lettering on the horizontal was a challenge, as the fence follows the contour of the land and is definitely not straight up and down. Regardless, for me, the act of painting the graffiti fence was empowering. Most of all that I felt I was a real part of the Denman community,” says Bell.

Painting the fence is generally a fairly complex act that involves at least one base coat to cover up what’s currently there. The artistic quality of the graffiti is almost always very high; messy spray-paint messages are rare. In fact, this is one of a set of unspoken but generally understood set of guidelines about the fence: only cover up items that are no longer valid or have been there a long time, don’t use it just to advertise a private business event, be creative, make it look nice, and no abusive comments. The fence was originally built for safety as there is a steep slope and quarry behind it. Its history as a medium for public communication has never been formally documented but I have gathered reports of sporadic graffiti dating back to 1974. The Denman Kindergarten/Grade One teacher, Karla, who grew up on the Island, remembers that the wall was blank for years until her friend commemorated her high school graduation by writing “Karla, grad 1979,” in huge letters, shocking many locals.

“Boy did I get in trouble for that,” she says with a big grin. No one seems to be shocked by the fence these days, and if there are people on the Island who disapprove, they keep quiet (after all, they can’t exactly use Denman’s most public space to express themselves). Instead, the fence is celebrated in blogs, photo collections and most recently, a 2011 wall calendar called On the Fence, each page a different example of fence art, which is being sold as a fundraiser for a Denman non-profit group. It may not be technically legal, but Denman’s graffiti fence is going strong. ~

SLEEPTECH: EVERYONE DESERVES A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

here is little worse in life than being endlessly tired, but when obstructive sleep apnea strikes continual exhaustion becomes the norm, not the exception. It is a condition causing side effects that can affect relationships, health, work performance and simple everyday enjoyment of life. Sleep apnea involves collapse of the airway while sleeping, thereby blocking air flow and disrupting sleep with cessation of breathing; some people will ‘block’ up to 100 times an hour. Extreme cases have the equivalent effect on the body of running a marathon every single night.

PROMOTION by Shirley Culpin

SleepTech was founded by Marianne Campbell, RRT, who has a talent for making lemonade out of lemons. Fifteen years ago, six months into her employment at Surrey Memorial Hospital as the co-ordinator of the hospital’s sleep lab, she lost her job due to funding cuts. Recognizing a need in the Fraser Valley for such a service, she founded the company. There are now five sleep apnea treatment centres operating under the SleepTech banner. SleepTech focuses solely on dealing with sleep apnea, which is its strength.

The happy news for those with this condition is that there is highly effective nonpharmaceutical intervention available, and it “We have both worked in hospitals is now readily available in the Oceanside area. and intensive care units,” says Carla, Deb Schrott & Carla Flegel, Registered Respiratory Therapists SleepTech, a company that has been in business “but this approach is much more on the Lower Mainland for a decade-and-a-half, has recently opened centralized and focused. We do one thing, and we do it well.” an office/clinic at #103 – 664 Beach Road in Qualicum Beach. It Carla likens sleep apnea to having permanent jet lag, a debilitating is staffed by two Registered Respiratory Therapists, Carla Flegel state of affairs for anyone. SleepTech treats the problem as an and Deb Schrott, who between them have tremendous depth of ongoing, life-long condition. Each patient receives intensive experience in the field. testing and coaching, free of charge. Many are referred by their doctors, but others simply walk in off the street looking for information on how to test for and treat sleep apnea.

Have you been diagnosed with Sleep Apnea? We provide:

• Free overnight testing for sleep apnea • Free CPAP therapy trials • Reports forwarded to your doctor • Can book into the clinic immediately, no waits • No charge annual equipment check and data download • Having difficultly with your CPAP therapy... Come on in!

SLEEPTECH, Sleep Apnea Treatment Centre

Serving sleep apnea patient needs since 1996 and now proud to offer services in Qualicum Beach Carla Flegel, Registered Respiratory Therapist Deb Schrott, Registered Respiratory Therapist

ON SITE TUES, WED, THURS. 10-4 OR BY APPOINTMENT #103, 664 Beach Road, Qualicum Beach

www.sleeptech.ca PH: 250-594-1111 Toll Free 1-877-597-5030 8

/ January 2011

According to Carla, in the early days of sleep apnea treatment the technology and knowledge were limited. So was the commitment of the practitioners, who essentially set their patients up with the machines and masks, hoped they helped, and sent them on their way. SleepTech has embraced a long-term integrated approach, working closely with physicians and patients on an ongoing basis. Free simple overnight testing for the condition with a take-home device is followed up, if required, by free trials with machines and masks for 4-6 weeks. Carla says the technology has progressed by leaps and bounds over the years. “The CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines can weigh as little as three pounds now,” she says, “and there are more than 30 styles of masks on the market.” So, with patience, perseverance and intensive coaching and counseling from the SleepTech therapists, it’s highly probable that there is a solution for just about anyone suffering with sleep apnea. Free annual check-ups with the therapists include pertinent data download from the CPAP unit and progress reports filed with the patient’s family doctor. The Qualicum SleepTech office is open Tuesday – Thursday from 10 am – 4 pm, or by appointment. A registered respiratory therapist is available to patients by telephone at all times, either by contacting the office at 250-594-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-5975030. Equipment checks, overnight tests and free trials of CPAP therapy can all be booked by calling either number, or by dropping into the Beach Road clinic. Further information on sleep apnea and SleepTech’s services may also be obtained by going to the company’s web site at www.sleeptech.ca ~

Taking the South Loop

Sharon Waugh photo

LIGHTHOUSE COUNTRY REGIONAL TRAIL By Sharon Waugh The average pencil is seven inches long, with just a half-inch eraser - in case you thought optimism was dead. ~ Robert Brault

Start: South Loop of the Lighthouse Country Regional Trial in Qualicum Bay Distance: 2 kilometres/one way Trailhead Directions: In Qualicum Bay turn up Lions Way, heading towards the Lighthouse Community Centre, turn right on Lioness Boulevard, travel ~ 100 metres to the parking lot. The second trailhead is close to the railway crossing on Lynx Road (Island Highway to Charlton; turn left on Lynx Road) Guide: A map is available at www.rdn. bc.ca; also published in the Regional Parks & Trails Guide (available for free at EyesOnBC).

bout ten years ago, a small group of avid local trail users put their heads together with the Regional District park and trail planning coordinators, and as most volunteers do, plunged with whole-hearted gusto into breaking trail for the proposed South Loop of the Lighthouse Country Regional Trail. Their carrot was bringing a vision to fruition – being able to walk and/ or cycle via a greenway from Cook Creek, the southern boundary of the Comox Valley

Regional District, to the end of the Trans Canada trail in Nanaimo. The first goal was to link the Lighthouse Community Centre in Qualicum Bay with Bowser’s Wildwood Park. Every Thursday morning for the next year the trail-busters, armed with pickaxes, handsaws and pruners, diligently created a meandering footpath, using natural deadfall to navigate creek crossings and ‘boot sucking’ swampy ground, with the intent of leaving as small a footprint possible in their wake. Often it seemed that there were more dogs than twolegged trail-breakers on the weekly work party but all enjoyed the companionship and the common goal of connecting a network of trails for the use of others. A well-deserved round of thanks to Val Wiesmiller, Nina and Frank Palmer-Stone, Alice Antonelli, David Umpleby, Will Lemmon, Doug and Bobbie Bartlett, Dave Wilson, and Judith van Oyen for their trail pioneering. Fast forward ten years and holding true to planning promises made by the Regional District to upgrade the Lighthouse Country trail and provide year-round creek crossings. The two kilometre stretch of the South Loop which mirrors the route of the E&N Railway will now be the first multi-use trail in the district to include access to wheelchair and medi-scooter trail users. A new railway crossing has been constructed at the south end, multiple wooden boardwalk sections and two shiny aluminum bridges span the

reaches of Ridgewell and Nash creeks. The hardpacked gravel surface is over a metre in width and danger trees have been felled increasing the visibility along the route. Yes, it does look different than the rural trail that has been a favourite of a few over the past decade, the footprint is definitely larger but it does offer a unique experience in our backyard to those with access challenges within a working forest environment and will be easy to envision great numbers of young families with strollers, children on bikes and those walkers that will appreciate level, root-free footing, all year round. There is mention of placement of a future bridge crossing, by the RDN, over Nile Creek to link the South with the North Loop making this a seven kilometre route...but in the meantime, there is a great bridge already in place over Nile Creek so the route is open and good to go. From either trailhead you can enjoy over 25 kilometres of trail and road networks in the wood lot, Nile Creek and Thames Creek watersheds. ~ To the unsung stewards of the trails: a large thank you to Gerry who took the initiative to get a animal-proof garbage container in place at the North Loop trailhead. Gerry has been looking after the garbage pickup for several years at this location...it does take a lot of effort to look after trails and parks once they are established. If you know of other stewards that could be recognized for their great work please let me know. / January 2011 9

SEEDY SATURDAY:

PLANTING THE SEEDS OF CONSCIOUS FOOD PRODUCTION Photo courtesy www.seedysaturday.com By Connie Kuramoto

hen I tell my non-gardener friends that I am going to Seedy Saturday I get mixed responses. Some just give me a silent shocked look, others might change the subject, and but there is always someone who just has to know, and so they ask; “What on earth is Seedy Saturday?” Who can blame them? Various online dictionaries define the word “seedy” as sordid, disreputable, disgusting, or despicable. No wonder my friends look at me askance! Miriam Webster’s on-line dictionary at least refers to the type of seedy we are talking about. This definition explains “Seedy: full of seeds.” Seedy Saturday is finally explained on-line by the Qualicum Beach Seedy Saturday web page. “A Seedy Saturday is a time to see food and flowering plants and seeds that will grow in your area and to get ideas from experts in all aspects of gardening.” (www.seedysaturday. com) Held once a year in various locations throughout Vancouver Island, the closest

ones to Lighthouse Country are: Denman Island on January 29th; Qualicum Beach on Saturday February 5th (10 – 3:30 pm) at the Civic Centre and in Courtenay, on Saturday March 5th at the Florence Filberg Centre. Nanaimo also has a Seedy Day, but they have theirs on Sunday March 6th at the Bowen Park Social Centre. I am a Seedy event addict, so you will probably find me at all four in this area, and perhaps even the one on Salt Spring Island. The common factor in all of these annual events is hundreds of gardeners. These gardeners are eager to find seeds for the upcoming garden year. They know that Seedy Saturdays and Sundays are the ideal places to get seeds that are grown locally and adapted to our local conditions. There are seed-trading tables, where you can bring a packet of your saved seeds and trade for a packet of someone else’s seeds. If you didn’t manage to save any seeds last year, seeds are available from the trade table for a small fee, and also available from the numerous seed vendors that have set up their selections on tables around the rooms.

There are a number of local seed savers and seed companies that are willing to provide you with varieties of seeds that they have found successful in this climate. Vancouver Island has a very unique climate for Canada, and local seed growers have saved seeds from their best plants. Buying seeds from other parts of Canada can be sometimes risky, as the growing conditions here are completely different than most of the rest of Canada. We do not have the long hot summer nights that many Ontario tomato and pepper plants enjoy, so we need seeds for plants that are capable of producing, and most importantly ripening, fruit in our typical summer with the cool nights and unpredictable rains. You may also discover the love affair that gardeners on this island have developed for saving seeds from leafy greens such as kale, and chard. You may learn that by taking seeds from their best, most hardy plants, they now have seeds for cultivars that will provide us with an ongoing source of food all winter long. continued on page 11

Wondering what will make 2011 a better year? Make 2011 the year you choose to … • Make the changes you truly want to make. • Better understand self-defeating behaviours. • Transform past wounding & trauma – Recover your Self For upcoming Dream Study & Esteeming the Self groups & interactive workshops see www.corecounselling.ca

/ January 2011

Happy New Year!

Thank-you Oceanside, for shopping locally. Monday to Saturday 9:30am to 5pm

continued from page 9 Seedy Saturdays are also about community. They provide a venue for us to meet and greet old gardening friends as well as make new ones. We may also discover a new cultivar of radish, or learn a new gardening technique by visiting an information table or going to a garden workshop or talk. This year the roster of speakers at the Qualicum Beach venue include Linda Gilkenson, who is giving two talks: one on insects, “Good, Bad, and Beautiful” and another on building your best organic garden ever; Dan Jason, along with Owen Bridge, originally from Qualicum Beach, and now the owner of his own seed company in Nova Scotia, Annapolis Seeds; and Chanchal Cabrerra, world-renowned herbalist from Innisfree Farm will also share the podium. The speakers at all the Seedy Saturdays and Sundays are knowledgeable, experienced, and eager to share their information with attendees. Seedy Saturdays have become increasingly important as we become aware of the threats to our food security. We have become aware that on Vancouver Island we only have three days worth of food and that we will not be able to continue to import foods from California as fuel becomes more expensive. Our local food arises from our local consciousness. We have become aware that locally grown food has more nutrition, and has less chance of being genetically modified, or sprayed with excessive amounts of pesticides. The food we grow ourselves, or trade with our neighbours, or buy from our local farmer or community farmer’s market can empower us, and empower our entire community. Our self-reliance and our community’s food security and economy are all enhanced by buying, sharing, and saving seeds that are locally grown. The process of supporting local business frees us from the tyranny of large corporations who want to control our entire food supply, making profit, not freshness, taste, or nutrients, the most important factor in food. So we see that Seedy Saturdays and Sundays are not so sordid, disreputable, disgusting or despicable at all! Seedy Saturday is, indeed, “Full of Seeds.” It’s also full of plants, good ideas, garden gifts, and most of all, full of gardeners with gardening advice and information that will set your gardening efforts off in the right direction for the coming year. ~ See Seedy Saturday’s ad on page 17 for more information. Look for Harry Sumner’s booth at Seedy Saturday in Qualicum Beach. As a regular contributing writer to the Beacon’s “Into the Garden” Harry is looking forward to fielding your gardening questions.

Gift certificates available too!

/ January 2011 11

REAL ESTATE

PARKSVILLE & QUALICUM BEACH FORECAST FOR HOUSING IN 2011 Because a very large portion of home sales in the Parksville and Qualicum Beach region appy New Year and welcome to 2011! I are to retirees, our local market is much less hope the holiday season treated you all susceptible than others to macro-economic very well. Skiing at Mount Washington was conditions such as volatility in the resource a big part of my family’s festive season and sector. Overall, we should be seeing a very now it is time to get back to school and work. balanced market in 2011 with increased consumer confidence and historically low As a REALTOR®, I have been monitoring interest rates still available. the market statistics and looking at the economic data for our local region. Thank One key indicator of the health of our local heavens for Economics 101! Perhaps the housing market is sales of luxury homes. most common question I’ve been asked In 2009, only 9 single family homes over over the holidays has been “How will our $1 million sold in the Parksville/Qualicum local housing market fare in 2011?” People region. In 2010, up to the end of November, are wondering if we will see volatility or that number had more than doubled with stability. Are we coming into a buyer’s, 20 single family homes over the $1 million seller’s or balanced market? mark sold in this area! That certainly demonstrates significant confidence in the In the reading and research I’ve done, there Oceanside real estate market! is a common belief that British Columbia will likely lead the country in home sales Dramatically increased activity in lot sales activity next year. The market will be in the Parksville and Qualicum Beach region characterized by plenty of inventory, steady also bodes well for the market in 2011. demand and moderate growth in both unit Thirty-seven lots were sold in Oceanside in sales and prices. Although the BC economy 2009. In 2010, up to the end of November, will probably only experience modest growth that number is more than twice as high through 2011, the province is in a relatively with 84 lots sold! I consider this to be an strong position. Nearly all BC jobs lost important indication of speculative buying, during the recession have been recouped. especially by builders – definitely a strong sign of market confidence! A gradual pace of growth will be a good thing for our province, keeping inflation and As for the key price point range from $300 interest rates low. If borrowing costs were to $500 thousand, unit sales of single family to escalate rapidly, there could be a sharp homes in the Parksville and Qualicum Beach erosion in home affordability. Fortunately, region were almost identical from 2009 to a quick increase in interest rates is not 2010. I expect we’ll see a modest increase expected to occur. The Bank of Canada in number of homes sold for this type of appears to be staying the course in keeping property in 2011. interest rates low. By Marc LaCouvée

/ January 2011

PROMOTION

Are you interested in having access to Parksville and Qualicum Beach market information? Every month, I post the latest stats on my website at www.lacouveehomes. com. These detailed reports include important figures such as sales price and days to sell averages. You’ll also find the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board HOME SALES Map with data for other nearby communities including Nanaimo, Port Alberni/West Coast, Campbell River and the Comox Valley. I welcome you to visit my website soon to easily find this useful information. Please remember to talk with a local REALTOR® to examine how the market affects your particular circumstances. Jim Stewart, the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board’s President-Elect says that, “Although there are signs of stability in the market, it is critically important to consult with a REALTOR® to be properly informed on how it might affect an individual situation.” ~ Sources: Vancouver Island Real Estate Board, BCREA Forecast Marc LaCouvée was born and raised on Vancouver Island. He is a REALTOR and is a Dad. He has spent his lifetime exploring this great paradise. Whether supporting Oceanside Minor Hockey, other local organizations or attending PAC meetings, Marc is committed to community, his family and the area that he and his children live in. Marc works for RE/MAX Anchor Realty in Qualicum Beach. www.MarcLaCouvee.com Please refer to Marc’s ad on page 27

WARMTH, WELCOME AND RESPECT ARE THE HALLMARKS AT CHURCH’S COMMUNITY MEALS By Shirley Culpin

hey come in all shapes and sizes, all ages, from all walks of life. Late each Thursday morning a tidal wave of hungry guests sweeps into the hall at St. Stephen’s United Church in Qualicum Beach to share a meal and a little companionship.

The volunteer kitchen crew at St. Stephens

The community meals were started six years ago by a small group of determined women who saw the hidden need in the community.

Shirley Culpin photo

“The first week,” recalls Kelly Worthen-Jai, “we had all these piles of sandwiches made, and six people showed up.” Slowly, news of the free weekly meal spread by word of mouth. Congregation members encouraged the attendance of those they spotted in the community who looked in need of some nourishment. Posters helped publicize the event. These days upwards of 165 people attend on a regular basis for a lunch consisting of a bowl of hot homemade soup, sandwiches, dessert and a beverage. There is no limit to the number

of times guests can return to the kitchen counter for refills. The volunteer corps behind the meals has ballooned to approximately 30 people. About a dozen women start work in the kitchen at 8:45 am. Another volunteer

arrives to set up the clothing rack and tables bearing donated odds and sods. A group dubbed The Bleach Boys takes on the task of scraping and washing dishes, and a couple of other men help to set up the tables and man the beverage station. continued next page

/ January 2011 13

continued from previous page The meals are open to anyone who wants to attend. When school is in session an average of 100 high school students show up and fill about two-thirds of the hall between about 11:30 and 11:55 am. The increased energy in the place is palpable, as is the noise level. The youngsters are unfailingly polite when returning their trays and dishes to the Bleach Boys station, more often than not thanking the volunteers. “We did not anticipate having all the students from the high school when we first started and some people question whether they all need lunches,” says Karen Vanderberg. “It is not for us to question why anyone comes, and the ripple effect could be that if any of those students needs help of any kind they may remember the kindness that was shown from a church.” Once the youngsters have cleared out and headed back to class things settle down, and additional folks of all ages and stations in life drift in. Young families, the elderly and disabled, the lonely, the homeless – all are welcomed with a cheery greeting and a smile. Volunteer ‘minglers’ visit with the guests.

“Often,” says Shirley Davis, “our guests get to know each other, and this meal becomes a social occasion for them too, where they can find a little companionship. Our minglers are folks who have a special ability to engage people, and while we don’t probe too much, if they find a guest who is in need of some sort of assistance we will try to help them.” By the time the one hour and forty-five minute lunch offering winds down at 1 pm the four massive soup pots have been emptied, dozens of sandwiches have been distributed, and untold numbers of sweet treats supplied by local businesses have been enjoyed. Two long tables piled high with donated bread products free for the taking have been stripped almost bare, and the wealth of free clothing, bedding, shoes and other odds and ends at the far end of the hall has been perused and picked over. The past four years have also seen the introduction of a monthly evening meal at the church, held on the third Tuesday of each month from 5-7 pm. “We tend to get more families at the evening meal,” says Karen. “The dinners consist of a full home-cooked meal, complete with dessert. We usually get about 75 people at

that meal, so it’s a smaller crowd and a little different, too, from the guests who come to the lunches.” The overwhelming lasting impression engendered by the community meals is one of warmth, welcome, respect and openness. The good-natured – and occasionally raucous – sense of fun shared by the volunteers spills over into the hall, into the kitchen and sometimes, amongst the diners. The meal program has garnered strong support from community businesses, private donors and St. Stephen’s itself. A partial partnership with the Salvation Army has also helped boost the grocery inventory on a weekly basis. Where it will all end is anybody’s guess. “We see new faces every week,” says Karen, “and so far our support system has been able to handle the increases. I firmly believe that when we don’t get any money anymore, we’re not meant to be doing it.” Anyone wishing to donate items or cash for the community meal program is welcome to drop their contribution at St. Stephen’s, 150 Village Way in Qualicum Beach, on Thursday mornings. ~

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/ January 2011

A REVIEW OF LOCAL RESOURCES FOR SENIORS Submitted by Eileen Beadle

DID YOU KNOW?

morning. Transportation issues? Call us! 250-757-8148

INCOME TAX PREPARATION

SENIORS IN MOTION

It is getting close to income tax time. The Society of Organized Services (S0S) provides assistance to seniors with the preparation of income tax returns. For appointments and Information, call 250-2482093 ext. 229.

FOOD BANK KLCC, Bowser’s food bank is here for everyone who needs a helping hand, even if it is just a temporary rough spot. We will do our best to help and it’s confidential. Food days are the second Wednesday of every month at Wildwood Church. It’s by appointment, so call by that Tuesday

SOS Seniors in Motion: This service connects Seniors in our community to supportive services, activities and programs which promote independent lifestyles. If you are age 55+ and are: Retired, Lonely, Inactive, Fragile, Non-Mobile, Shut-in, or just plain Bored, call SOS for information about available services. 250-248-2093 ext 239

QUALICUM BEACH AND AREA NEWCOMERS Are you new to the Lighthouse Community? The Qualicum Beach and area Newcomers club is a great way for you to meet new friends. Membership is not restricted to residents of Qualicum Beach. Meetings

are held on the second Tuesday of each month at St. Stephen’s Hall in Qualicum Beach. At each meeting you will have the opportunity to meet other Newcomers, sign up for a club, or purchase tickets for the many special events that occur throughout the year. Not only are the meetings fun and informative, but they are generally only 60 minutes in length! We recommend you arrive early (doors open at 9:45 am) giving you enough time to have a coffee. ~ Editors Note: You’ll also find a fantastic online resource guide for seniors living on Vancouver Island at www. seniors101.ca. ~ LT

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SOFT, FURRY, LONG EARS, SHORT TAIL By Nancy Whelan

id the Tiger roar in your Year 2010? If he gave you a bad time, you may well be looking forward to a gentler “Year of the Rabbit” for 2011. Though we scarcely know yet ‘what’s up doc?’ for the coming days, the idea of a more cuddly critter may give us hope for a gentler time in the year ahead. The Rabbit is known to be one of the luckiest signs in the Chinese zodiac; his year begins on February 3, 2011. We tend to lump all the lapins into one bunch of soft-furred, long-eared, longlegged, garden-raiding mammals with a flare for making fools of coyotes or hopping along their spring delivery routes with baskets of colourful eggs. Not to split hares here, but there is quite a variety in the bunnies’ family trees. Starting with the critter most familiar to us and most often pictured as the egg-bearing bunny, we have the Cottontail – both eastern and western – Sylvilagus floridanus or nuttallii. Cottontail is the smallest of the three most common “rabbits” and is a true rabbit – about fifteen inches in length. Its helpless young, blind and hairless, are born in a nest called a “form”, a hidden depression in the grass or briars.

/ January 2011

2011

Year of the Rabbit

Cottontail is not always the mild and meek little animal its appearance suggests. When angered or alarmed, the rabbit will thump the ground with strong hind feet, will attack an intruder, jump over it, and land on its back with strong kicks from those same powerful legs. Rabbits have been known to send a raccoon sprawling and send a cat or dog running for cover. Next in size is the Snowshoe or Varying Hare, Lepus americanus, which is not a true

rabbit but a hare. Besides its larger size, about eighteen inches, the hare, perhaps because of its habitat, bears its young wide-eyed and fully furred. This bunny lives in northern North America, right into the Arctic. The north woods Indians gave this hare the name Wabasso – if you buy the best of bed linens, you’ll be familiar with its snowy image on the packaging. Wabasso’s two most distinguishing features are its changing continued next page

colour and feet. Grey/brown in summer, Wabasso gradually molts and grows white hair in the fall until it’s nearly invisible against the snow. At the same time, its feet grow long hairs between the splayed toes, forming soft “snowshoe” pads. If the hare must, for some reason of survival, swim, the pads become handy and efficient paddles. Wabasso’s feet are easily twice the size of the other bunnies’. While Cottontail moves mostly by running, Snowshoe can move in leaps of ten feet or more to escape its enemies – the fox, lynx, owls, weasels, and man. Bunnies’ ears indicate the climate in which they live – the shorter the ears, the colder the weather because the thin ears are easily frozen. The third and biggest bunny in the group and the one with the longest legs and biggest ears is the Jackrabbit, at home in the warmer areas of prairie Canada and the U.S. This fellow uses the long, wide skin surface of his ears to dissipate body heat and the Mexican Jackrabbit has longer ears still to deal with the temperature. The 20-inch Jackrabbit is no slouch in the motion department which is why he’s such a challenge for the coyotes. With leaps of up to twenty feet and a speed of 30 to 35 mph it’s no wonder he often beats poor old Wiley to the prize.

If you want to read a bunny’s mind, watch his ears. Both ears back – placid but on guard. Ears up – he’s at attention and anxious. One ear up, one ear down – “Where did that noise come from, anyway?” If rabbits meet as friends they will rub whiskers with each other, no doubt inquiring, “And how are your families today?” The hares’ and rabbits’ partly covered, constantly moving nostrils and split upper lips help them to pick up and identify scents. So, if you found one of our now too prevalent bunnies out there on your lawn, sitting back and wiggling his nose, he was just trying to figure out the quickest way to your nearest crocus, carrot, or cabbage patch. But rabbits have to eat, too, and overall the Rabbit’s year should be fun and relatively calm, favouring peaceful solutions and diplomacy …so hop to it! If you were born in a Year of the Rabbit, the portents are for a most favourable year, especially in regard to work and career, with finances buzzing and luck running high. ~ You wasculy wabbits were born in:1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999.

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/ January 2011 17

Bayne Stanley photo Georgia Nicols

Today, almost everyone knows his or her ‘sign’, and yet many of us that read our horoscope outwardly pooh-pooh its uncanny accuracy as coincidence. Never mind the fact that Libra was forecast to be accident-prone today, and that you are a Libra, and you have a bruise on your hip from slamming into the corner of the reception desk at work. Oh, yeah, then there was that vampire bite on your thumb from the stapler. Hmmm. I often read my own after a ‘weird’ day or week, seeking an explanation for the fact that I got trapped on an escalator with a shopping cart during Christmas shopping, that my computer cord unsheathed itself and bent its wiring, that I plum forgot to show up for a shift at work, and that I drove over my son’s hockey gear while taking him to practice...all in one week. The only explanation in a situation like this, for

“YOU AND YOUR FUTURE” GEORGIA NICOLS, CANADA’S MOST BELOVED ASTROLOGER, TELLS ALL IN HER NEW BOOK by Lisa Verbicky

or all those who purchased new phones or computers over Christmas, hold your breath, cross your fingers and toes, and tread gingerly across your keypad for Mercury, the planet that rules communications, has turned its back on us humanoids until at least mid-January, says Georgia Nicols, Canada’s foremost astrologer. Mercury, also ruler of ground transportation, may also explain why you were so mired in that colossal traffic jam on the way to grandma’s for Christmas dinner...in the backwoods. Darn deer, darn weather, darn Mercury.

someone who is usually adept at juggling a multitude of balls while cooking dinner is, Mercury. If only I had known. Of course, Nicols did. She purchased her electronics in advance of Mercury going into ‘retrograde’. That would be why millions of people read her newspaper columns every day in papers like the National Post, Monday Magazine, Vancouver Province, Calgary Herald, Winnipeg Free Press, Chicago Sun-Times, and monthly in the Beacon Magazine, to cite a few. She’s even helping people avoid planetary landmines

Speak when you are angry and you will make the best speech you will ever regret. ~ Ambrose Bierce

and make the best of each day in China with her column in the China Daily (Beijing). Her new book, You and Your Future, featuring 40 years of horoscopes for each sign of the Zodiac, is so popular that it caused her book on Amazon.ca to crash. Mercury. It remains in the Amazon top twenty for a good reason. Jam packed with in-depth details on each sign and its corresponding personality patterns, the book gives insights into how each sign holds up as a boss, employee, parent, child, and lover. Nicols also delivers a very useful section for each sign on how to be happier. The gorgeous 600 page book, retailing for an easy $24.95, also holds juicy tidbits of information on the rich and famous, and is riddled with wonderful quotes, and her trademark wit. Horoscopes have been gaining popularity since the 1970’s, says Nicols, because they are about ‘you’. “The horoscope not only guides you, but, it confirms you,” she says. “You can use it to know when it’s best to buy real estate, change jobs, and end a relationship.” You can also use it to better understand who you are, she says. For those of you Cancers wondering why you can be depressed, thrilled, and then frightened in the span of an hour, you have an excuse. For those Scorpios who question why they question so much, you can now stop asking. Nicols has used astrology to guide her in her own life since she was a young girl. In her book she tells how while renting a suite in Vancouver her chart said she was going to be moving soon. She then began building a house on a piece of property she owned at the time. Sure enough, when her entire building was evicted, she had a place to go. continued on page 26

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/ January 2011

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• on Facebook www.facebook.com/beaconmagazine • on our Blog beaconmagazine.blogspot.com

/ January 2011 19

PER PERSON

BURGER MONTH

Here’s a sneak peek at some of our world famous, delicious gourmet burgers coming for the month of January and February 36 BURGERS TO CHOOSE FROM ... PER PERSON

Classic Chicken Parmesan

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Oyster Burger

Breaded Fanny Bay Oysters, pan fried to perfection then topped with tartar sauce.

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Juicy fillet of Halibut served with tartar sauce.

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/ January 2011

Fish Tales

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* / January 2011 21

KIM LONGMUIR

A MYRIAD OF POSSIBILITIES DANCES BEFORE HER EYES By Rita Levitz

ince it first opened, the EyesOnBC office has served as a community hub, a place for newcomers and old salts to make connections and apprise themselves of community events. It is also the place Kim Longmuir, Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) Recreation Programmer for Lighthouse Country, has had the pleasure to call her “second home” for the last three years. “Even though I knew many people here through my running and coaching activities, as a non-resident I didn’t know how I’d be received, but I was made to feel so welcome here, right from the start. I love the beauty of this community.” It is hard not to welcome someone with the attitude of respect and belief in partnership and flexibility that Kim embodies. “I found that my most important role here is community development. Working in a rural community, the job takes on a life of its own. It‘s more that I’m here to be part of the community, to help with community events, like Moonlight Madness, the Halloween party, the Torch Relay…” Kim has also done her share of conventional programming, listening to what kinds of activities people want and then striving to provide them. “Programming is a bit like a jigsaw puzzle – putting pieces together and making it work. I want people to know that they can trust me, that I will listen, and try to help.” Trust was the key in her previous career too. “Teaching Grade One, I felt it was such a privilege to be the person parents trusted to be with their children. Actually, all my teaching skills have come in handy – organizing, multi-tasking, prioritizing, budgeting – but especially communication skills, being comfortable with people, talking to people, listening to people.” Born and raised in Winnipeg, this “prairie girl” got her first teaching job when she was

/ January 2011

Kim Longmuir ~ Ritz Levitz photo

nineteen. “I had thirty-five Grade Three students in inner-city Winnipeg. I grew up in a lower middle-class environment, but this was like nothing I’d ever experienced before – children without enough food and proper winter clothing, children who were abused. I longed to just make a difference for one of them. I grew so much working there, and it made me the person I am now.” In 1983, Kim and her husband Randy moved to Victoria. “We came to visit my grandparents in March, went running in

Beacon Hill Park amidst the daffodils, and thought, ‘Why wait until we retire to enjoy this?’” It was an inauspicious time to be looking for a teaching position. Despite piles of rejection letters, they were not discouraged. “I tend to see the glass as overflowing, to find the good in any situation, to see the good in everyone.” Eventually, they both got continued on page 24

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.

JANUARY 2011

AWE, NOBILITY AND OUR HUMAN POTENTIAL By Joanne Sales

read a short blurb in Oprah magazine waiting for the dentist to drill my teeth. When we look at something awesome (like a T. Rex or a magnificent tree), we’re more likely to identify ourselves with names that “collect us”. (I’m a 21st century earthling, a human, a child of the earth.) When we look at ordinary things, like a hallway, we’ll identify ourselves by definitions that separate us. (I’m a soccer player, Jack’s mother, a Liberal or a pothead.) Well, we must spend too much time looking at hallways, for at this moment we are literally endangered by our shrunken identities. A popular book of the 1970s was titled Your God is Too Small by JB Phillips. Obviously God doesn’t shrink, but when we shrink, we humans have a habit of shrinking everything around us. Then, with total confidence and self-righteousness, we will deny that we washed the wool sweater in hot water. A ray of sunlight slips through the crack and lands on the floor; we call it the sun and fight to the death to defend our belief. A strange defense mechanism. This willingness to shrink is an obstacle to the optimal development of our human psyche. At first, as babies, we only know – I am hungry! Soon, mommy matters, then the family matters. Our identity eventually expands to the tribe or nation state. A fully mature person will embrace all humans, and then all beings, in their circle of concern. But we have been under an onslaught of influences to discourage our development. How unfortunate. For this is a time in human history that calls us to think elevated thoughts – thoughts that unite us – thoughts that are outside the box. Our culture supposedly encourages us to think outside the box, but usually what that means is to buy a different colour of jeans before the crowd catches on. Such acceptable boxes are social mass-mind boxes, and yes, it is good to think outside of them. But they are temporary constructs and will change with the season anyway. Our wellbeing depends on thinking outside of another box. The box of I, Me, Mine. The body box. The one we think we live in, and that houses our thoughts. The personal story box that defines our identity, and separates us from those who are not us, and not like us. The same market advertising that encourages us to think outside the box and dye our hair red would actually encourage us to stay inside that “body box”. It’s hard to sell cosmetics to a Buddhist nun or an activist for homeless children. People who obediently stay in the closet of a shrunken identity are much better consumers. Shrunken identities are like closets. In reality, they are stand-alone structures – more like outhouses, but we’ll stay with the word that does not offend – closets. The point is that they are small. We decorate the walls of our closet with photos of our past, and hang up our treasures on hooks. We play music and stories day and night, and rerun thoughts we are familiar with – thoughts which seem to explain the story of “my life in the closet”. continued on next page / January 2011 23

Fortunately, our closets have no roofs, no ceilings, no tops. We get fresh air and sunlight, and even the most timid among us leave our closets frequently. Those are the moments referred to in Oprah’s magazine – when we experience awe and truly connect to each other, and experience love, beauty and the fullness of life. If we were growing up on schedule, we’d be living outside of our closets by now. But we’re not. Why do we get stuck? The closet I grew up in had a lot of hard times, but it almost doesn’t matter. Sometimes the best thing that can happen inside a closet is to have a bad time. Because the goal is to get out of it! A closet is too small for happiness. But these are times of change, and in such times, most people hunker down in their closets. It’s a common, but not our most noble response. We don’t use the word “noble” much anymore. The word seems old fashioned. Why? It wasn’t old fashioned as recently as my parents’ generation – the WWII generation. They got it. What do we not “get”, or what did we forget or lose during the selfish era of the ’80s and ’90s? Noble describes an elevated level of thought, which takes place above the closet of our personal concerns. It demonstrates concern for the greater good that is beyond our personal needs, time and lifespan. It is not a flippant state of mind that changes with the morning news. Nobility is holding the course of compassion, justice, civility and ethics – even when it isn’t fashionable. The dictionary says noble “Implies having elevated principles and consistently adhering to them; suggests greatness of mind or soul, esp. as manifested in generosity or in overlooking injuries.” This is a new year. What are our plans? Less time in the closet and more awe would be awesome. Our family is all humans; our greater family is all beings. That is one noble thought. I’m sure we can think of more. Happy New Year! ~

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continued from page 22 Images & Voices jobs at private schools in Victoria. “All the little girls in kilts and blazers, their hands folded on their desks – I almost didn’t know what to do! It was an eye-opener in a whole different way.” Kim taught for seventeen years, until the birth of their daughter Caley. After moving to Parksville with her family in 1996, Kim continued with two of her lifelong passions, running and coaching. She has her Level 3 NCCP distance running coaching certification, meaning she is qualified to coach provincial and national teams. “I’ve been a volunteer coach for over thirty years. As a young athlete, someone always took the time with me. If I’m not willing to do that now, and someone else isn’t willing, then some child won’t get the opportunity.” Kim and Randy both coach with Oceanside Track and Field. There were fourteen children when they started; there are one hundred nine now. They also coach in partnership with Kwalikum and Ballenas Secondary Schools. “It’s very positive for youth; the older ones are good role models for the younger ones. So much depends on leadership. If you’re really enthusiastic, people are willing to try things – I know I am if someone is both encouraging and realistic.” Coaching has also kept her close to the greatest loves of her life – her husband and her daughter. Caley is a competitive race walker and currently a student at the University of Victoria. As Kim’s time with the RDN draws to a close – “I’ve been covering maternity leaves for people, but now the moms are back” – she departs with her heart heavy, but with her cup still overflowing. “As I travel the difficult journey of Alzheimer’s with my dear mom, I look forward to the extra precious moments I can spend with her. Life is short and there are so many new adventures waiting. Maybe I’ll take Hospice training or Spanish or piano lessons.” A myriad of possibilities dances before her eyes… ~ Kim...on behalf of the Lighthouse Country community, we extend a huge hug of gratitude for your attention and intention to building our community at so many different levels. We are all going to miss you but we also know that you are intended to take this leap into the unknown and the next group of people that get to work with you will be the some of the most fortunate people on this planet. Thank you for enriching our lives! ~ Sharon & Linda

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If you did not check one or more of these points you can take this as a friendly reminder that it is to your benefit to focus a bit more on your health. Other questions that are worth your time considering include: • • •

Have you ever had your blood sugars tested? Do you ever have difficulty urinating or have the urge to urinate frequently? Do you have any difficulties getting or maintaining an erection?

Most men take better care of their car than they do of themselves. Their trusted vehicle gets fuel when it is getting empty – an oil, lube and filter every few months, frequent vacuuming and cleaning, an annual inspection and it even get its tires rotated regularly! When it comes to a man’s own body, it is often not until the signs and symptoms of a problem present that any attention is paid. Is it time for you to have a tune-up? You should find out what your blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol levels are, as well as what risk factors you have for other medical conditions. Chronic medical conditions, and severe complications, can often be avoided by a person who: knows the risk factors, makes lifestyle modifications and is proactive about their health. When men are healthier, so are their spouses and children, their families and communities. ~

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continued from page 18

GEORGIA NICOLS, CANADA’S MOST BELOVED ASTROLOGER,TELLS ALL IN HER NEW BOOK one week in December. That was the week of the tsunami in South East Asia.

Astrology is a soft-science, says the Vancouverite in her book.

Nicols also wrote about Obama winning the election in all the major newspapers the week before it happened.

“Everything in life is interconnected,” she says. “We wouldn’t have dark without light, or up without down. There is also a correlation, or relationship, between the stars and us.”

“Pluto was returning to Capricorn. That hadn’t happened since the American Revolution,” she says. “The inauguration of a black president just seemed to be revolutionary.”

While Nicols doesn’t believe the planets affect us because they are too far away, she believes that the cycles of the moon do because it is so close. Just look at the tides, the word ‘lunatic’ or the police records during a full moon, she says in her book. Astrology has for centuries been based on mathematical models of forecasting cycles. The very first mathematicians, like Galileo, were also astrologers, she says. “They didn’t have television. Looking at the stars gave them something to do.”

“For example, based on the 24 hour cycle, I can easily say that more people will be sleeping at 4 am than at 4 pm,” she says in what she calls a slightly over-simplified example. “But, this doesn’t mean that the sun or moon is ‘causing’ anything.” The accuracy of her forecasts were shown on the Vicki Gabereau Show in 2004 when she predicted that there would be a great outpouring of compassion over the course of

As for the New Year, the good news is that Jupiter will be moving in. This means that there will be a renewed sense of wealth, says Nicols. “Everyone will be a bit richer and more optimistic by mid-year.” Move over Mercury. Here comes Jupiter. ~ Georgia Nicols’ book, You and Your Future is available at Amazon.com, Indigo.com, and in most bookstores across Canada. For more information, visit www.georgianicols. com.

Baynes Sound Investments Ltd. DEEP BAY DEVELOPMENT Baynes Sound Investments Ltd., wish to extend their thanks to everyone who participated in our recent Open House held at Bowser Elementary School on November 16th, 2010. The response from the residents of Deep Bay was very positive and supportive. Suggestions and questions put forward by you, will be analyzed and submitted to our design team, for review and consideration. There will be other opportunities in the future, for the public to review and to make comments on the Development Plans, as we proceed through the rezoning process. 26

/ January 2011

Qualicum Beach Town Hall • Linda Tenney photo

By Marilyn Dawson, Reporter

hat a difference a year makes. The past 12 months have been eventful; there was the excitement of the Olympics, the opening of the much maligned roundabout and the launching of the upgrade on the Berwick reservoir system. Not too shabby for a period designated by Town staff as a maintenance year with no big spending planned. (As is the custom in Qualicum Beach, the funding for the aforementioned was already in place.) At Council’s regular December meeting, Town staff outlined the general picture for 2011 as they tidied up year-end housekeeping issues. Qualicum Beach Engineer Bob Weir brought Council up to speed on the Berwick reservoir upgrade that will give the town three times its present storage. He noted there had been no complaints about the disruption around the site near the roundabout, which earlier had served as a catalyst for invective from inconvenienced drivers. Either residents realize the importance of water to the community, or the construction site did not disrupt day to day living. Wait for next summer when the Town is undertaking another project, the upgrade of Memorial Avenue, which runs

/ January 2011

from the beach, through town to Highway 19 to hear grumbling. While it will be done in stages, and some of it can be done earlier, traffic will have to be detoured while road work is completed in the summer months, he said. Two other bread and butter issues are on the books. Funding is already in place for the $80,000 drainage improvement project at Higson Crescent which should see the end of the lake that forms every year after heavy rains. The railway crossing at Berwick is also an important issue, but will stay on the Wish List until funding from provincial and federal governments is in place. John Marsh, the financial administratrator, had good news barring any year-end major weather events. As of Oct. 31, the Town had used up almost 84% of its budget, a little better than the previous year and revenues and expenses were on target. Allan Cameron, public works director, said the heavy snow in late November did a lot of damage to snow removal equipment and to trees in the area; crews would take over two weeks to clean up.

It will be a busy 2011, beginning with meetings to update the Official Community Plan and ending next November with the municipal election. Resident involvement with the OCP began late last summer with the Quality of Life Survey followed by a November OCP session at the Civic Centre to discuss results which showed that more than 80% were satisfied with their town. Just after the survey was turned in, the Town learned that Kwalikum Secondary School was slated to close. When Consultant Mark Holland asked how many would answer differently if they had known of this before filling out the survey, hands shot up around the room. So at the December OCP meeting, Mr. Holland tried to address the problem. A drop in students showed a lack of jobs to support families. He asked the audience of 200 or so, to consider where jobs could be found. Is there a niche market that would put Qualicum Beach on the map? There’s no easy answer, but thinking about the issue is the first step. Meanwhile more meetings are planned with the passing of the new OCP bylaw set for May. ~

ht ra • Insig e m a •C hts Lig

sight era • In m a C • hts Lig

inspiring – or even humorous, engaging films that are also educational.”

20TH ANNUAL WORLD COMMUNITY FILM FESTIVAL

SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON THE BIGGER PICTURE By David Morrison

n Friday 4th and Saturday 5th February at various venues in Courtenay, a quietly historic event will be taking place. I say ‘quietly’ historic because, regardless of the milestone, it will be business as usual for the dedicated group of people behind the 20th Annual World Community Film Festival. That it is such a significant anniversary will not overly concern the World Community organization beyond the fact that, after two decades, they are still able to continue the work they are so committed to. “We’re frightfully Canadian, so won’t go over the top in acknowledging ourselves,” laughs Wayne Bradley, one of the film festival’s founders. Joking on perceived stereotypical Canadianisms aside, Bradley’s modest attitude genuinely reflects World Community’s selfless aims. Thinking globally and acting locally, this organization is deeply concerned with the planet’s ills and intent on enlightening as many as possible as to what they are. If in the process their work serves to galvanize people into positive action, then they could not ask for more. “Our mandate, broadly speaking, is to educate on social justice issues,” states Bradley. “It’s about educating people to take 28

/ January 2011

action on the issues that are of importance to them. We’re trying to get people off their stumps and become involved. In 1996 we got involved in importing Fair Trade coffee from Nicaragua with a group on Salt Spring Island. We’re trying to bring people’s attention to the fact that it matters, that how you spend your money affects people in the rest of the world. It changes the lives of real people when you choose to spend your dollars on a pound of Fair Trade coffee, as opposed to off-the-shelf ‘industrial’ coffee.” This is precisely the mentality that is applied to the World Community Film Festival. A packed programme of thought-provoking documentaries on a wide range of topics is screened each year, the careful selection frequently presenting difficult subject matter. Yet despite this, as Bradley points out, the overall aim is to motivate rather than dismay, to fire up rather than to beat down. “We try not to avoid hard issues but we also try not to make people leave depressed,” he says. “We could disempower people if we bludgeon them with this stuff, so we try to find films that contain messages of hope and at the same time educate people as to the severity of various crises facing the world. We try to show films that are uplifting and

To this end there is an amazing programme in store for 2011, with fourteen awardwinning documentaries among the twenty-nine to be screened. Afghan Star, for example, follows contestants in the Afghani equivalent of Pop Idol, whose participation alone places them at serious risk of Taliban reprisals. “Singing is not a bad thing, but it’s banned by religion,” says one interviewee. Another believes that one female contestant “deserves to die.” Black Wave tells of the legal battle of the fishermen of Cordova, Alaska, against the Exxon Mobil Corporation, still being waged almost twenty-two years after the catastrophic Exxon Valdez oil spill. The multi-award-winning Soundtrack for a Revolution looks at the American civil rights movement through the powerful music that helped to fuel it. Vanishing of the Bees examines the well documented, yet still inexplicable disappearance of honeybees across the planet – a phenomenon known as Colony Collapse Disorder – and what this could mean for our future. Budrus brings a tale of hope from the Middle East, in which a father and daughter are leading a movement of Palestinians and Israelis from across the political spectrum in order to save their village from destruction by Israel’s Separation Barrier. As its stirring title indicates, Force of Nature: The David Suzuki Movie, is an inspiring profile of the revered Canadian environmentalist, while one of the more continued next page

continued from previous page intriguing documentaries for the 20th Annual World Community Film Festival has to be Laughology. A film Bradley describes as “astonishing,” it “attempts to find the reason why we laugh, and especially why we’re wired to laugh together,” taking a scientific approach to the subject and looking at the many health benefits to laughter. It is reasonable to expect a packed house for this one. The festival will kick off with Music by Prudence and The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls. The former won the Best Short Documentary Oscar at last year’s Academy Awards and relates the heartrending story of Prudence Mabhena, a richly gifted Zimbabwean singer and composer who was born with arthrogryposis, a debilitating condition severely affecting the joints. Lynda and Jools Topp, meanwhile, are “New Zealand’s favourite singing, dancing and yodelling lesbian twin sisters,” whose inspirational story takes in their fight against discrimination, their activism for various causes from Maori rights to nuclear disarmament, and a whole lot of music. Besides this cross-section there is plenty more to look forward to from the 2011 programme of an event that is apparently one of a kind. “The festival itself is completely volunteer, and that makes it pretty unique in the annals of film festivals,” Bradley explains. “When we started in 1990, international development film festivals were funded by CIDA (Canadian International Development Agency), but they were cut off the next year, so the upshot of that was that of the five film festivals depending on CIDA funding, four of them disappeared. We realized that if ours was to last we would have to depend on outside funding, so our focus was to try and gain all of our support from our community. The Campbell River, Courtenay & District Labour Council has donated one thousand dollars each year for the entire twenty years, as they see us as an important part of the educational work in the area.” As to the origins of this vital event, Bradley says: “Our group was originally initiated by CUSO (Canadian University Service Overseas: now CUSO-VSO) in Vancouver. One of the board members there had property on Denman Island and knew some people in the Comox Valley, and he had an interest in trying an international development film festival. So they called a meeting, a few people showed up, and that was the beginning. I missed the first meeting, which is just as well, as I thought a two-day festival was way too ambitious! And in 2010 we were twenty years old… but our twentieth festival is in 2011..? Well, we missed a year. We took a year off as we were having some conflict about whether or not we were just being voyeurs, whether we should be doing more than just watching stories about international development issues around the world. This sort of led us to being more hands-on.” I do not need to further stress the importance of such a festival. It’s simple: World Community presents films dealing with global social, environmental and economic matters that should concern every single one of us. What we do after we view them is our choice, but to follow the proactive lead of Wayne Bradley and the fine folks of World Community is the best place to start. Great work, guys: I look forward to previewing your 40th Annual Film Festival. ~ For further information about the work of World Community and their 20th Annual Film Festival, including the full festival programme, schedule, venues, ticket prices and outlets, please visit the World Community website: www.wcdes.ca 29

/ January 2011

A WINGED HELICOPTER TAKES FLIGHT. MAYBE... by Gilles Leduc

hat the heck is a samara? One definition is a winged “helicopter” seed that falls from maple, elm and ash trees. Certainly a great little word for a Scrabble game! In the political world, Samara is the name adopted by a not-for-profit organization that focuses on three areas: political leadership, participation of citizens in public life, and public affairs journalism. Samara is an independent and unaffiliated group, and that’s important. Few people realize, or care to realize, is that much of what passes for “studies”, “statistics” and “information” is produced by organizations that are affiliated with a political agenda, if not directly with a political party. Depending upon your personal political slant you probably don’t have a problem with The Fraser Institute or The Georgia Strait Alliance, but on either side of that possible divide you are aware of the slant. I don’t have a problem with the opinions of newspaper editors or bloggers – but I do have a problem with opinion disguised as fact. Admittedly, some of what follows may be called opinion by those who disagree. Most of us have developed a healthy skepticism of advertising and marketing, yet we fall prey to punditry and pronouncements that claim to represent the “majority”. A samara is the uniquely adapted seed of three well-known deciduous trees, that’s incontrovertible. When it comes to politics, why would we be so sure of ideas presented as fact? People are fluid for the most part. The fundamentalists, either in politics,

/ January 2011

religion or any other social group, are the minority.

conditions and are still the largest economy of Europe by most measurements!

Coalitions are essentially the base upon which democracy was invented not necessarily the ability of the general population to vote. Prior to the violence of the French and American revolutions, there was a much more clear line between rich governance and poor serfdom and slavery. Emperors, queens, chiefs…whatever they were called, they essentially had nearly all the money and nearly all the power. When the bourgeoisie and the commercial sectors gained importance financially, the aristocracies had to pay closer attention to their concerns or they just raised their own armies to take power.

Next the Senate kills the climate change bill: unelected people override the will of the masses. The concept behind the Senate in Canada is “sober second thought”. It was felt that experienced and informed unelected individuals could offer a safety valve to prevent rampant over-reactive tendencies of elected officials who needed to get elected and therefore had to listen to every whim of the “electorate”. Early on in our system, governments learned quickly that they could load the Senate up with political cronies who were “spent forces” politically, behind the scenes power brokers, bag men or missing regional power and place them in the Senate to ease the passage of legislation. That’s a flaw in the system that has been looked at repeatedly. The Germans’ Upper House is a regional sober second thought – think provincial politicians sitting in the Senate, perhaps one or two from each province. What about mandating that 60% of Senators be unaffiliated, or that the Senate reflects the percentage of party seats in the House of Commons? Each of those has drawbacks too but the discussion needs to become a true movement to a better way.

But when there was a hue and cry over the proposed coalition of our three federal opposition parties, it was not anathema to parliamentary democracy. Whether or not it was a workable coalition is another story. People join political parties as a coalition of people who believe similarly on most major issues: consensus building. That coalition was designed to bring the government down but there had to be enough agreement on the reasons why - for a separatist party, a partially union-based “socialist-light” party and a party of the moneyed power brokers. If you think about it that way it’s democracy in action – that such disparate points of view could agree on such a fundamental approach that they had to know was going to cause such public outcry and go ahead and do it anyway is huge! Germany has been ruled almost exclusively by coalitions since the end of WWII. They lost the two largest wars in history, absorbed millions of East Germans living in 1950s

“Exit interviews” is another term with which I was unfamiliar. Apparently some companies undertake them when employees are leaving the firm to try and improve efficiencies and the work climate for the workforce. I guess the thinking is that people will be more open to express their opinions. Samara has conducted exit interviews with former Members of Parliament and their preliminary report is entitled The Accidental Citizen. See http://www.samaracanada.com/ for interesting comments by exiting MPs. ~

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Aries (March 21-April 19) You’re checking bargain flights and wondering how to blow town. Don’t worry, this is totally appropriate. But hey – it’s exciting! You want to push the sides of the envelope. You want thrills, chills, adventure, more knowledge, and pots of money so you can live with derring-do! (Which is really your style.) Go after your dreams. Visit places you’ve never been to before. Talk to people from different cultures. Do what you can to make your life more vibrant, dynamic, and exciting! You will never, never again be as young as you are today.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Tra-la, tra-la, it is to laugh. It’s an incredibly playful month! Romance and love affairs, plus wonderful social diversions with parties, the theatre, sports, and all that fun stuff top your list this month. Get out and enjoy yourself! Buy something sexy to wear to give yourself a lift. Maybe literally! (Remember Dick Cavett’s introduction “And here they are, Jayne Mansfield!”) The month ahead is a fabulous time to enjoy express your creative talents. Don’t worry about who’s watching – it’s the process that counts. You’re not a noun, you’re a verb.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) You’re focused on shared property, inheritances, insurance matters, and anything you own jointly with others. This includes taxes, debt and red tape stuff. Boring, yes. But necessary to plow through, yes. (It was ever thus.) The upside is this month you feel hot, sexy and passionate! Make sure you do something about this. Women might want to purchase sexy lingerie (and guys too, if you like cross-dressing). You’re a tactile sign who loves silk and cashmere and that wonderful “rough to the touch” feel of hundred dollar bills.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) The month puts a strong emphasis on home and family activities. Your entire focus will be on domestic matters, which includes real-estate deals or real-estate speculation. Discussions with a parent could be significant. Increased activity and chaos at home might be the result of residential moves, renovations, or visiting guests. It might also lead to domestic tension. (The challenging part.) Old friends and relatives you haven’t seen for ages might be camped on your doorstep. Stock the fridge. Prepare for the inevitable onslaught.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) The Sun is directly opposite your sign. This means you’re focused on partners and close friends more than usual. Retrograde Mercury brings contact with ex-partners and old friends as well. However, this is a wonderful opportunity to observe, study, and get a better understanding of your personal style of relating to others. It’s your chance to learn a lot! Since partnerships are important to you (you’re always seeking your soul mate) this is your chance to figure out why you want to Vulcan mind-meld with someone.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Short trips, mucho errands, visits, increased interaction with siblings and relatives, plus a super-active schedule of reading and writing all combine to accelerate your daily tempo. You’re flying! You’re also unusually assertive in all your communications. Hands on hips, you’re telling it like it is. One caveat: retrograde Mercury in December will cause delays to transportation and mail and create confused communications. “Let’s play bureaucracy! Everyone stands in a circle. The first person to do anything loses.”

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Suddenly, you want to be organized at work, and at home. You want all your stuff in neat little piles where you can just put your hand out and grab something at a moment’s notice. (What luxury!) Of course, you will start by de-cluttering and getting rid of what you no longer need. (I know this is tough for you. You hang on to everything.) Fiery Mars will help you delegate duties and tasks to others. However, retrograde Mercury will cause delays. Ouch! Wouldn’t you know it? No worries – you can move mountains!

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Money, money, money! You’re focused on your cash flow; specifically, your earnings, and possibly getting another job, or how to make money on the side. (I’ve always thought it curious we “make money on the side.” Why not upfront? Or even behind?) Not only are you working hard to earn money in the next six weeks, you’re equally active spending it! Take note: retrograde Mercury will bring you opportunities to earn money in old ways, or with prior contacts. However, retrograde Mercury will also cause delays to your earnings. Grrr.

4647 Thompson Clarke Drive E., Bowser

/ January 2011

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) The Sun in your sign boosts your energy and attracts opportunities and important people. It’s your turn to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year! Fiery Mars is also in your sign, making this an unusually energetic time! You’ll stand up for your beliefs and fight for your rights. You’re out there flying your colours! Ex-partners and old friends plus old circumstances will be back in your lap. (Well, maybe not that close.) Get lots of physical exercise because you have energy building up within you, and it’s gotta go somewhere! Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) This is the time of year when you want to work alone or behind the scenes and keep a low profile. Why? Because you’re preparing to jump up and take centre-stage about a month from now. Until then, use this month to strategize what you want your new year (birthday to birthday) to be. All of you are entering your time of harvest, which is a three-year window ahead. For most, this time of harvest is a time of success, kudos, graduation, and promotions. A few, however, will see what is not working. If so, cut your losses and move on. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Popular you! Clubs, small groups or large conferences are on the menu. Some of these groups will be physically oriented (sports or gym classes). It looks like competition is in the picture. In fact, this competition could escalate to conflict. Be cool. Take the high road. Old friends are also back in the picture. You’ll enjoy this because you are a networker par excellence. Give serious thought to your dreams and hopes. Share them with others. (“I’ve always wanted to drill those tiny holes in toothbrushes.”) Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Others to notice you this month, especially bosses, parents, teachers, VIPs, and the police. If you drink, don’t drive. Take the bus, walk, or grab a cab. Keep in mind that you are high viz this month, even if you aren’t aware of it. The good news is that this high visibility makes you look extremely attractive to others. They think you’re hot stuff! That’s why this is the perfect time to ask for a promotion, get a raise, or do anything where you need to impress people. You’ve got what it takes and it shows! ~

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! The advertisers listed here also have their business cards and brochures racked with us at EyesOnBC 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.

Our Advertisers.............................Contact....................................................... Category................. Ad Page Arrowsmith Automotive........................................ 752-1662..................................................................... Automotive Services....................................14 Qualicum Auto & Marine Supply Ltd.................... 250-752-5621............................................................. Auto & Marine Supplies...............................37 Career Centre...................................................... 248-3205..................................................................... Business & Education..................................37 Jennifer Hubbard, Solicitor, Notary Public........... 752-6951..................................................................... Business & Financial Services.....................32 NR Insurance Services........................................ 752-3086..................................................................... Business & Financial Services.....................11 Wisdom is Within Coaching................................. 757-9794..................................................................... Business & Personal Coaching....................16 Handy Sandy Services........................................ 250-240-3122............................................................. Maintenance Services.................................36 Ethereal Splendor Healing................................... 250-947-5231............................................................. Health Services............................................38 Medicine Centre.................................................. Fern Rd 752-9911....Memorial Ave 752-9976............. Health Services............................................16 Nurse Next Door, Peter Coulter........................... 250-752-2597............................................................. Health Services............................................19 Tracy Hebert R.M.T............................................. cell 927-1471.............................................................. Health Services............................................38 Camelot Electric..........................................................................................250-752-7999...................... Home & Garden Services......................14, 38 Camelot Excavating.....................................................................................250-752-7909...................... Home & Garden Services............................38 Gemini Technical Services (Appliances)............. 752-6871..................................................................... Home & Garden Services............................38 Horne Lake Electric............................................. 250-240-7778............................................................. Home & Garden Services............................37 Lighthouse Trucking Ltd...................................... 757-2047.........................cell 927-7577....................... Home & Garden Services............................37 Northpacific Window............................................ 752-5312..................................................................... Home & Garden Services............................15 Witte Construction............................................... 757-9713.........................927-2157............................. Home & Garden Services............................37 EyesOnBC (in Bowser)........................................ 757-9914..................................................................... Copy / Fax / Office Services.......... back cover Peter Mason Land Surveyor................................ 757-8788.........................1-800-350-5394................... Surveying & Land Information......................37

SERVICE DIRECTORY LISTING A-Company Military Surplus & Adventure Clothing...............................36 Action Tank, Septic Services.........................36 Advanced Hypnosis......................................36 All in One Bobcat..........................................36 Arrowsmith Heating.....................................37 Blue Star Trucking........................................37 Bondy and Sons Heating & Cooling..............37 Bowser Video Showcase...............................37 Browns Plumbing & Gas...............................38 C.F. McLean Pellet Sales................................36 Camelot Electric...........................................38 Camelot Excavating......................................38 Career Centre................................................37 DIY Helper & Handyman Services.................36 Deja~Vu Decor.............................................37 Dog gone Beautiful Grooming......................37 Dynamic Drywall..........................................37 Eagle Stove & Sweep....................................38 Ed & Willems - House Painting.....................37 Ethereal Splendor Healing...........................38 Evelyn’s Barber Shop....................................38 Gemini Appliance Repair..............................38

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Handy Sandy Services..................................36 PC Plumbing & Gas......................................36 Horne Lake Electric.......................................37 Peter Mason Land Surveyor..........................37 Jim’s Mowing - Corporate.............................36 Powerwise Electric.......................................36 Kerry’s Sewing Basket..................................36 Qualicum Auto & Marine..............................37 Level 6 Drywall Contracting.........................36 Qualicum Bay Plumbing...............................37 Lighthouse Trucking.....................................37 Shaklee - Sharon Waugh..............................38 Master Lawn Maintenance...........................38 Shorewater Resort.......................................36 Oceanside Yoga............................................38 Tracy Hebert, Massage Therapist..................38

Wilson Exteriors...........................................36 Witte Construction Ltd.................................37 NEW THIS MONTH! Life ‘n Balance..............................................38 Seren Home Care..........................................38 Liberty Tax Service.......................................38

Less $5 discount until January 31, 2011

/ January 2011 33

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: – Sunday Jan. 9th, 8am-noon. The Bow Horne Bay Fire Department will be cooking up breakfast this morning.

Now is the Time to Make your Maximum Allowable RRSP Contribution… Get an RRSP Loan that Practically Pays for Itself!

See us Today!

Lighthouse Seniors #152 – Mon. 11:30am Jan 10th at the LCC. Soup and Sandwich. New members welcome. FMI call Lois 250-757-9938 or Joan 250757-9536. 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 250757-8218 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.

Run Stronger 16yrs+ Mondays 8:45-10:15am Jan 10-Mar 7 $59.50/9 Bowser Tennis Court Parking Lot Hatha Yoga 16yrs+ Mondays 6:00-7:15pm Jan 17-Mar 7 (BES); Tuesdays 9:15-10:30am Jan 18Mar 8 (LCC); Thursdays 6:00-7:15pm Jan 20-Mar 10 (BES) $68.70/8 and HST Focus on Fitness 16yrs+ Wednesdays 10:3011:30am Jan 19-Mar 9 Lighthouse Community Centre $48/6 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.

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

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS & CLUBS

Lighthouse Trails Group needs your help. Val Weismiller: 757-9667

Coombs Country 4h Horse Club registration takes place on Thursday January 6th 7pm at the Coombs fair grounds. For children aged 9 (as of January 1st) – 19 years old. For more information contact Glynis at glyn.is@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+) – Starting Monday Jan. 17th, Bowser school gym Thur evenings, 7-9 pm. Drop-in fee: Adult $3, Students $1. Racquets available, beginners welcome. Info: 250-757-8307, steelehunt@shaw.ca

RDN PROGRAMS PRESCHOOL Cool Moves 18mos-5yrs Thursdays, 9:30-10:30am Jan 20-Feb 24 CHILDREN Girls and Boys Just Want to Have Fun 6-11yrs Wednesdays, 3:00-4:30pm Jan 19-Mar 9 Bowser School $52/8 / January 2011

Run Some More 16yrs+ Mondays 10:3011:30am Jan 10-Mar 7 $46/9 and HST

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.

AA Lightkeepers: every Fri. 8pm. Info: 240-757-8347

LIGHTHOUSE RECREATION INFO PATTY: 757-8366 shipshore@shaw.ca

YOUTH & ADULT

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

January 2011 The Qualicum Beach Family History Society opens their New Year with a special event. Ivan Sayers, a well known Fashion Historian, will present a slide show of his expanding clothing collection, discussing eras of change in design. We will hold this months meeting at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, in the East Hall 19th Jan. 2011 at 7pm. in conjuntion with the Qualicum Beach Museum and Historical Society. Everyone welcome. Coombs Big Dance 4U! with Malloomba Boogie Band! Saturday, January 29, 8 pm to midnight at the Coombs Rodeo Grounds Hall. Tix $15 @ Shoe Inn, Coombs General Store, Back Road Java, Cranky Dog Music. l.D. Reservations phone Doug 752-8505. tix $20 at the door. Sorry no minors free or overnight camping. Qualicum Beach Probus Club – Meets at St. Stephens Church Hall on the first Tuesday of each month at 9:00am. Our speaker on January 4th will be Nestor Gayowsky, talking about his experiences as a diplomat. Visitors are welcome. Qualicum Beach Garden Club Meeting – Jan. 11th 7 pm at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. “Invasive Plants in the Garden”, Guest speaker Sarah York of Coastal Invasive Plant Committee and a presentation by Joanne Sales of Broom Busters. Mark this on your Calendar! Lifering Weekly – Alcohol/drug discussion meetings. Thursdays 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.

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN JANUARY!

www.rcl211.ca Jan 6 • LA General Meeting Jan 25 • Executive Meeting .......................................... 7:00pm Jan 27 • LA Executive Meeting

CLOSED SUNDAYS

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

Jan 26 • BC Earthquake Drill Jan 29 • Giant Meat Draw (Food Available!) ...........................4:30 pm Jan 30 • Quadrathon ..............................................................1:00 pm

Belly Dancing Ladies Pool Crib Texas Hold’em 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 runs every Monday from 10:15-11:45 at the Fanny Bay Hall. For children 0-5 years old and a caregiver. Join us for songs, stories, early literacy activities, games, gym time, parent resources and a snack. This is a free event, supported by the Comox Valley Family Services Association and the Fanny Bay Community Association. FMI contact Evelyn 250-335-9022 Lighthouse Spinners – Every Tues. 10:30-2:30pm in the Community Centre Board Room. New members are welcome. FMI contact 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 there are 7 chapters holding bi-monthly, day or evening meetings. Inquiries can be made to: Margie Healey, 250-757-9125 “Living with Cancer Support Group” – 1st Thurs of the month at the Gardens at Qualicum Beach from 1:30 to 3:30pm. This group is not only open to cancer patients but also to their care giver. FMI Call contact Rosemary at 250-951-2167.

Jan 6 • LA General Meeting........................... ........... 1:30 pm Jan 27 • General Meeting ............................................. 7:30pm

Jan 1 • New Year’s Day Levee ....................................................12-3 pm Jan 21 • Past night ($6) after meat draw................................7:30 pm Jan 29 • Robbie Burns Night...................................................5:30 pm

Tickets on sale Jan 7th. 2pm at the Legion $27.50/person

Want to join the Ladies Auxiliary? Call Dorothy 250-951-0220 Crib Monday.................................................. 7:00 pm Ladies Pool Monday...................................... 1:00 to 4:00 pm Texas Hold’em Tuesday................................................. 7:00 pm Birthday Celebration 2nd Wednesday..................................... 4:00 pm Mexican Train Thursday ............................................... 1:30 pm Meat Draw Fri & Sat ................................................ 4:00 pm No Meat Draws January 1

/ January 2011 35

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

Culverts Drain Problems

Accommodation

Septic Installation

For alphabetical service listing, see page 33

Certified Septic System Specialist

Call Lauren & Save

Advanced Hypnosis & Training Institute Are you feeling overwhelmed? Is your past continually showing up in your present? Is Anxiety your best friend? Make your life easier

Drywall

Hypnotherapy

Electrical Services

Septic Service

Home Improvement

Plumbing & Gas Services

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

Ines Simpson BCH CI 250-954-9290

/ January 2011

Sewing Services

Military Surplus

Home Repairs

Pellet Fuel Sales

Handyman Services

Yard Services

141 Memorial Ave., Parksville B.C.

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

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

Heating

Movie & Game Rental

Auto & Marine

BOWSER

XBox & GameCube

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

757-8353

Excavating

Land Surveying

Interior Decorating

#3 - 6996 West Island Hwy, Bowser

2003 Kobelco SK160Lc Excavator for Hire

DEJA~VU DECOR CUSTOM DECOR & WINDOW COVERINGS

Call

250-752-8772

Convenient In Home Appointments

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

Dog Grooming

Witte Construction

/ January 2011 37

Healing

Plumbing Gas Heating

INSTALLATION SERVICE & REPAIRS

Philip Brown

250-240-4902 • 250-757-8077 EVENINGS

Tax Service

Barber Services

Fitness Classes Enviro Products

.. Biodegradable Free .. Solvent Concentrated Phosphate Free

PLUMBING • GAS • HEATING

FAST • RELIABLE • ACCURATE Drop off depot at The Beacon in Bowser & free delivery when completed Please call for information

P: 250-754-2210 • F: 250-754-2204

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

Lawn Services

Healthcare

Home Care Services

Year-round office: 229 Milton St., Nanaimo

A few spots are still available in the EyesOnBC / Beacon Magazine In-house Community Info Centre for racking your business cards, rack cards or flyers! Call 757-9914 for more information. FROM $10/MONTH

It’s where locals and visitors find their service people!

/ January 2011

FREE WEEK TRIAL

THE AMAZING IDEAL PROTEIN WEIGHT LOSS SYSTEM NOTHING TO LOSE BUT INCHES PHONE FOR AN APPOINTMENT

Electrical Services

FEATURING TOTAL BODY WELLNESS PROGRAMS

250-586-3366

Appliance Repair

EyesOnBC Community Info Centre

Excavating Services

Marketing & Advertising

Chimney Cleaning

Wellness / Weightloss

BOWSER TO PARKSVILLE

Parts Store Open Mon to Fri 9-4

Black Oil Sunflower Seeds Black Oil Sunflower Seeds have a higher percentage of meat and are a very nutritious source of high quality protein.

with Coupon

18 kg.

Limit of one per customer. Offer expires January 31, 2011

5 8 7 A l b e r n i H i g h w a y, Pa r k s v i l l e , B . C . - Te l : 2 5 0• 2 4 8 •3 2 4 3

RE-OPENING JANUARY 10TH

/ January 2011 39