February 2017 EyesOnBC Magazine

February 2017 vol 13 issue 02

Serving Vancouver Island & the Gulf Islands

Guest editorial: Trump’s America •

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March for Women and all the other living beings • John Beaton’s: “Seafarers” •

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MAGAZINE

February 2017 vol 13 No 02

EyesOnBC Magazine is published monthly Showcasing our community since 2004 Main Email: info@eyesonbc.com Phone: 250-757-9914 Mailing Address EyesOnBC Magazine, Box 182, Bowser, BC V0R 1G0 Hours: Mon - Thu 10-4 Our Contributors this month: Georgia Nicols, Joanne Sales, Linda Tenney Bill Veenhof, John Beaton, Susan Urie On the Internet www.eyesonbc.com & www.facebook.com/eyesonbc For Advertising Options Call 250-757-9914 to inquire or visit www.eyesonbc.com/advertise to request ad rates.

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here's no denying the topsy-turvy world of politics in the U.S. has spilled over to affect the rest of the world, and while I have always held a deep respect for those in political office, I'm finding it difficult these days to admire anything about the new President of the United States.

There, I said it! I'm outed! Oddly, at this stage of my life, I find myself becoming more politically aware and there's a strong brew of 'activism' percolating just beneath the surface of my normally indifferent attitude toward foreign affairs.

As I see it, there's a blatant scheme to create a rift in the midst the populace, not only in the U.S. but abroad as well. I can feel it beginning to spread here within our own Island communities, where opposing beliefs are being voiced with increasing volume, and clashing with surprising vehemence. I feel we're being manipulated. And we're allowing it to happen.

I have no solution; no fix. I simply hope that reason will prevail and clear-thinking will prevent the U.S. from protracted civil unrest ... perhaps even war. Here at home, I'll continue to seek a balanced view of the news; digesting the good, bad and the ugly to reach my own conclusions. Within the barrage of statements from both sides, lies truth. _______________________ In events a little more personal, it's been confirmed that I have Stage IIIC Peritoneal Serous Carcinoma and will be starting chemotherapy on February 9th at St. Joseph's Hospital in Comox. I feel I'm in good hands and am remaining positive, albeit realistic about the coming months. I invite you to my blog where I'll continue to keep you up-to-date. It's not all bad; I can find humour in anything and intend to keep smiling! www.eyesonbc.com/blog

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THE FEATURES

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Guest Editorial: Trump's America by Susan Urie Island SodaWorks: At home in Qualicum Beach March for Women and all the Other Living Beings BizBanter: what's new in business

Susan Obieglo

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COMMUNITY LIVING 16 From the Desk of the Director, Bill Veenhof, Area H

THE REGULARS 8 15 20 22

In the Stars: Georgia Nicols Horoscope Classifieds Community Calendar At Your Service - Local Services & Trades

Articles and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and published for general information purposes only.

Articles are not intended to provide specific advice - the publisher will assume no liability.

Articles and/or data may not be quoted or reproduced, in part or in whole, without permission from the publisher.

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GUEST EDITORIAL

TRUMP'S AMERICA......

by Susan Urie

I

have discussed what is happening (in the United States) with my children and my head and heart hurts doing so. I have always tried my very best, as I was taught in debate class at university, to keep my personal feelings and opinions out of political debate.

Our own Canadian election pissed me off to no end with "Trudope" and all the other childish rhetoric being thrown around during the process. "If you name call you lose credibility in your argument" I can hear my university professor saying.

Stick to policy, no name-calling, never put someone down for their opposite opinion of your own..... all of these things I aspire to......but Trump has stumped me.

How can I NOT attach my personal feelings to his words and actions?? Pussy grabbing as "just locker room talk"? Not in my house. Never never in my house! Spin it however you like but a sixty-year old man (at the time) who speaks like that with his pregnant wife at home is an ignorant ass. Period.

My sons and my daughter have heard my opinion of this man who openly mocked a disabled person, called Mexicans rapists and murderers, stamps his feet like a toddler in a tantrum when Alec Baldwin draws great ratings on Saturday Night Live, and blatantly lies about crowd-size at an inauguration that played out like a Twilight Zone nightmare.

His anti-choice decisions that will allow Congress to send women's reproductive health into back alleys, his 'Muslim Ban' that will allow the most hateful of humans to openly harass, abuse, ostracize and harm anyone with a brown face. His blatant disregard and silence toward Native Americans at Standing Rock, sickens me. His childish Twitter rants leave me baffled about his followers.

His hard-right Christian-base represents NO person of faith that I know and respect and I will continue to adamantly explain that to my children so they realize Trump is nothing but a reality show celebrity who is out for NO one but himself. He is a lunatic.

And as a person who struggles with mental illness I use that term literally. He is not of sound mind and I am astounded at how many American citizens were fooled into thinking he actually gives a sh** and cares about anything other than his fragile ego.

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My only light in this dark is for every hateful American who celebrates their Trump-stamped permission slip to be a bigoted ass to any nonChristian person of colour... there are citizens now stepping up to the plate to proclaim "No, this is NOT my America and I will NOT stay silent".

I will applaud the Netherlands when they respond to Trump's gag order on reproductive health with further funding and support. I support and applaud my own government, my own political affiliations and opinions aside, when it steps up to say you are safe here in Canada.

I will do these things and I will explain why to my children and my children's children to my very last breath.

I will never forget my oldest son's greatgrandmother when she spoke of Hitler. A young, married woman in England during WWII she would speak of him and his atrocities and her elderly face would be filled with feeling as passionate as if it had all happened only yesterday. "He was a monster" she once said to me. "And he fooled everyone". I think of Nana Joan often these days and wonder what she would think of Trump and his exclusion of so many, his plans for walls, Muslim registries, detaining immigrants and lies on top of lies. And a part of me is happy she never had to witness what is happening now.

My children have always heard me speak openly about politics and world issues and with Trump at the American helm my voice will remain loud.

Hatred, exclusion, bigotry, racism, misogyny and paranoia will not silence me.

I am a child of immigrants, a non-Christian, a supporter of equal rights for everyone no matter your colour, gender or faith, I support the LGBTQ community, am vehemently pro-choice and will never, EVER stand by and stay silent to the bull spewing from Donald Trump's mouth and administration.

He is insane. Just as surely as Hitler was insane. His tentacles stretch out across borders and oceans and we must all stand firm, strong and - above all else together!

Rant over. Peace out!

M A G A Z I N E

Susan Urie lives in Oceanside, is a wife, mother, activist and writer. I admire her passion and thoughtful opinion. ~ ed.

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ISLAND SODAWORKS: AT HOME IN QUALICUM BEACH

by Linda Tenney

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andolyn Jonasson and partner Erik Dahlgren have transformed the cavernous space of the old Fire Hall in Qualicum Beach into a chic and cozy spot for Island SodaWorks Bistro, the farm-to-table eatery you'll undoubtedly add to your 'favourites' list.

You can count on well-balanced, organic, nutritious and tasty meals from Mandolyn's kitchen, where the ingredients used in her recipes are primarily from her own farm in Qualicum Bay. If not available there, Mandolyn 'hunts and gathers' from the fields and larders of organic farmers and local food artisans to create her innovative meals.

One of Island SodaWorks' unique dishes, Mandolyn's “Seasonal Coconut Curry” (at left), is made with in-season organic veggies and a nippy curry sauce that will leave you satisfied and pleasantly warm on the inside. continued next page

Seasonal Cocunut Curry - Vegetarian or add locally pastured chicken

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Dishes lovingly prepared in this kitchen are designed to keep you healthy. You'll find fermented garnishes, immune boosting probiotics, and almost everything is organic. And of course, Mandolyn's signature artisanal soda pops are just the thing to nourish your body and your soul. Try the Salal and Ginger, it's one of my favourites!

You'll be pleased to know that Island SodaWorks believes in doing what they can to eliminate waste in our local land-fill.

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The containers are available for a small deposit – simply return them when you're done for a refund.

Bannock Wrapped Sausage Island SodaWorks Bistro

The Bistro's decor is an eclectic mix of amusing decorative elements on the walls ... and hanging from the ceiling. Avantgarde. Artistic. I'd say, west coast bohemian meets vintage Parisian.

It works. ~

Taco The Town photos by Linda Tenney

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Predictions - February 2017 Aries (March 21-April 19) This is a popular month!

Many of you will be involved with groups more than usual, which is excellent because this is a good time to work and cooperate with others. Because friendships and your relations with groups are more prominent, this is also the perfect time to examine the role these relationships play in your life because the people you associate with are a reflection of who you are. (This can be sobering.) It’s time to recognize and define what you want your life to be.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) This month the Sun is at the top of your chart. (The only time all year this occurs.)

As such, it symbolizes a spotlight shining on you and light is flattering, which means people in authority see you in a positive way. This is why you will be given increased responsibilities. Please note: It’s important to know you don’t have to be a super hero to fulfil these responsibilities. Don’t pretend that you are something that you aren’t. You will shine!

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Grab every chance to broaden your horizons this month. If you can travel – do so. You want adventure and a chance to learn something new.

If you don’t travel, explore educational opportunities and take a course or go back to school. The main thing is to stimulate your intellect and give yourself a broader perspective of life. You might meet different people and discover metaphysical, spiritual and religious experiences.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) You will feel passionate about everything this month. You want to experience life at a deeper level. You’re not satisfied with an intellectual understanding of things because you are thinking about & life, death, mortality and “What’s it all about Alfie?� You A HOME AWAY FROM HOME. YOUR PRIVACY IS ASSURED. are also dealing with the values of others, which differ from your values. Yup, it’s time for some serious self inquiry. (Wow.) Does this mean you have to grow up?

Generous self-serve breakfast fixings supplied in your Maybe. comfortable, well-appointed room Conveniently located to the waterfront, downtown Qualicum Beach, Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) This month you need more sleep.

Don’t worry; you’re not losing it; you just need more restaurants, shopping, theatre, and art galleries. rest. No biggie. This is also the month to focus on your Phone: 250-752-0084 closest relationships. You might wonder if a particular Email: nauticatigh@gmail.com

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relationship fulfils your needs. Perhaps you also need to look through the other end of the telescope? How much do you fulfil the needs of your partner? After all, for a successful relationship, you must be as good for your partner as he or she is for you.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) With both Venus and Mars opposite your sign, one moment you are irritated with others, then in the next breath, you are grateful to have them in your life. Go figure. Meanwhile, the energy of this New Year makes you want to manage your life as well as possible. You want to be efficient, productive and effective in everything you do. You’re making lists. You’re setting goals. The bottom line is you want to make every action help your life to run more smoothly.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) You will work hard this month; and relations with coworkers are positive. Nevertheless, you want to party! This is why this is the best month to take a vacation and enjoy social outings – the theatre, musical performances, the arts, sports events and playful activities with children. Romantic adventures will thrill! You might begin a new romance or a flirtation.

Just remember that you can relax and just be yourself.

Don’t apologize for who you are. You’re not a day over adorable.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Explore romance and playful times with friends this month because you want fun, pleasure and a chance to enjoy the arts. Nevertheless, you are focused on home and family; and your interactions with a parent could be important. Yes, you are pulled in two directions. This is a good time for personal selfevaluation that sets you on a path of new personal growth. (Some of you will discuss this with a professional counsellor or a good friend.)

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) This is a busy month for you as you juggle short trips, errands, increased reading and writing plus talking to everyone. Many of you are

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still involved with redecorating projects and realestate opportunities. Chaos and activity at home mean you have to be patient with others. Communications with everyone are important, which is why you should let clear communications be your goal.

Examine even your casual relationships.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) The main theme for this month is money. Where is it? As you ponder your money and earnings, you will think about your values and what really matters. You will wonder about your possessions and whether or not they serve your needs or they drag you down. Possessions and wealth are such an illusion, and yet, it’s all we think about. The bottom line now is that you have to know what really matters for you in life.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) This month the Sun is in your sign. It energizes you and attracts favourable situations and important people to you; plus it’s your chance to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. Because of this personal focus, it is okay to put yourself first. You’re not being self-centred – it’s what happens naturally when the Sun is in your sign. (The only downside is it can make working with others a bit difficult because you are so focused on your own needs and development.)

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Because your birthday is a month away, this means your personal year is ending.

This, and the fact that you’re beginning a New Year, mean this is the perfect time to make goals for the future. Where do you want to be five years from now?

Where do you want to be one year from now? Keep in mind this is a good time to benefit from the wealth and resources of others, which means you can ask for a loan or a mortgage because things will come your way. (“I want a pony and a trip to Disney World.”) ~

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MARCH FOR WOMEN AND ALL THE OTHER LIVING BEINGS

by Joanne Sales

I

joined the Women’s March on Saturday, January 21, along with 1000 other people in Nanaimo.

The gathering that started outside the Nanaimo public library was one of 673 marches with 4.8 million people participating worldwide. In most major cities, the photos show massive seas of humanity gathered - so many people that they couldn’t actually march. Never before in history have so many people joined together in person to speak out for justice and the rights of everyone specifically women, but clearly for all who are vulnerable.

The march itself was a high moment, a feel good day. After many depressing weeks, it was uplifting to know that we as individuals were not alone. We rejoiced in each other’s company.

The focus was broad but clear.

Equality, justice, respect, freedom. If you are promoting a fascist agenda, it’s important for you to know that 5-million people don’t want it, and they’re not going away. Lots of young people. Lots of men. LOTS of women.

168 marches were in 81 countries outside the US, including Canada, Europe, Australia, even Iraq and Antarctica! The world is so small and we know it. Our futures are linked; there are no real borders between countries. Walls are a joke. And now we have a serious problem - malware in the White House. There are those who are falling for - and embracing - the rhetoric of fear and hatred; but there are also those who are striving to rise up in love. That division is more pronounced than nationality, gender or religion.

Like many of the older people there, I had participated in many marches in the past, most of them against the war in Vietnam in the US. Three years after my brother was killed in Vietnam, in May 1971, I joined a protest in front of the Justice Department in Washington, D.C. We sat cross legged on the road with our arms crossed, holding each other’s hands, singing, “All we are saying - is Give peace a chance.” Two by two, the police picked us up one by one and put us in a van. They weren’t rough, and we didn’t resist. The largest groups were taken to a huge sports arena. Our group was taken to the DC jail. We had our mug shots taken, smiling, and were locked up, about 10 women to a cell.

We continued singing, told each other stories, gave each other massages. We got our phone call.

We protested loudly when we were given bologna sandwiches on white Wonder bread. “This isn’t food! I’m a vegetarian. I can’t eat this.” Needless to say, those complaints fell on deaf ears.

They were feeding 7000 people! My group stayed in jail for 27 hours before we were released. We had a great time.

But those times were different. In spite of all the things we were protesting, we knew that we were going home again. The judges would side with us.

We were simply exercising our right to freedom of speech. Our protest records would be erased. We trusted our government to be fair.

Such is no longer the case. I most certainly do not want to be arrested again there, here or anywhere. That’s why we went out onto the streets in

such large numbers. If we want a different kind of world, we need to stick up for each other - everybody everywhere.

Once we were trying to find homes for our dog’s puppies. A woman called.

“If you give me the puppy, he will have his own room with a television.” (Was this woman crazy?) My dog never even glances at a TV, unless a dog barks on screen. Then she jumps up and barks.

“I hear my people! Who’s barking?

Where’s my pack?”

Humans too are social animals. We may drive each other crazy, and in truth, there are too many of us. (It may be our numbers that are pushing this movement of fascism forward.) But we also are pack animals. We want to be around each other. But how?

Democracy is messy and disorganized.

You don’t always get what you want.

Those who can’t handle the mess want to control it and control everyone else, i.e., you and me. That’s the birth of fascism. A couple in France carried a poster that read, Stay calm and smash fascism.

How shall we live together in this much smaller world? That’s the question.

Human society depends on our ability to feel each other’s joy and pain, to feel empathy, love, and compassion.

Now here is something very interesting - and scary. Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that taking the drug acetaminophen reduces a person’s ability to feel empathy. Acetaminophen is the main ingredient in Tylenol, and 600 other drugs. Each week 23% CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

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of adults in the US take a medicine containing acetaminophen.

friend carried, “The greatest of these is love.”

“Other people’s pain doesn’t seem like such a big deal to you when you’ve taken acetaminophen.” (Tylenol).

Apparently, acetaminophen can reduce a person’s concern for others as well as their own pain.

It is February - the in between month.

The “waiting-for-spring” month. In the holiday cycle, February is the Love month.

other beings. We want to think win-win instead of I-me-mine. To wish well. We are trying and hoping to train our hearts to love. We don’t want to lose, and we don’t want others to lose. And even when we fail, we will not surrender to hatred. We’ll get up in the morning and try again.

Love without justice can become just sentimental hogwash. It’s like the slave owner who tells us that he is good to his slaves because he feeds them and doesn’t beat them. They are still slaves.

So Trump and the Republicans want to take away the health care from 30 million people, just because... just because it irks them? The estimate is that 43,000 people a year will die from this repeal. What’s wrong with those people? Something has gone seriously wrong with the empathetic part of their brains - or hearts. Mental malware.

One of the speakers in Nanaimo was a young First Nation woman. I couldn’t hear her speech clearly from where I was standing, but I heard her use the words “I rise...” from African-American Maya Angelou’s famous poem.

We can’t blame it all on Tylenol. But that study makes it clear that things do influence our ability to feel empathy.

“Out of the huts of history's shame...I rise

It was a scary time to be reading a book about Nazi Germany, but it was a great book. “All the Light We Cannot See.” The brilliant, small and vulnerable teenage boy protagonist is taken away to a Nazi training camp, where the boys were taught to be cold, heartless and cruel. It took fear and years. The whole thing was an unbelievable horror, for everyone, including those young boys.

Anger is a natural emotion. It rises and falls naturally, as part of our early alarm system. But where to point that anger?

How long to place it on one person or group of people? That is taught. We learn who to hate from our families, culture, friends - and from biased “news” and intentional propaganda.

(Dare I mention Fox News?)

So what can we do?

One of the signs at the march was carried by a severely disabled woman in a wheelchair, “Love Never Fails.” Her

The call to love is worldwide. The attack on love is worldwide. The attack is powerful, using lies, division, manipulation, confusion. But in the end, love will win.

In the meantime, what each of us does is important. Reach out wherever you are and do what you can, to strengthen community, to help those less fortunate, to build bridges rather than walls, to speak truth, to heal, to connect.

Up from a past that's rooted in pain...I rise...

It takes training to open the heart. It takes training to close the heart.

A female dog at one of the marches had a message printed on the shirt on her back: “This Bitch is Angry.” We do get angry - and afraid. But we know the only way out is up.

I am the dream and the hope of the slave...I rise

This is a very unique and important time in history. Don’t miss it.

I rise...I rise” Jesus and Confucius said, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you...” It doesn’t mean we have to give away the farm. Love isn’t just being nice; it’s about justice and honesty and respect. Another sign: “There is no love without respect.”

Rachel Kann wrote a poem about these times: “What to Tell the Children” “...Tell them love will win this war...

But only if we remember... That love is not just one unending cuddle puddle,...

But fierce as a mother bear protecting her cubs...”

If you were not at a march, but you wanted to be there, you WERE there!

The larger march is invisible. We are a network of awakening beings who are not perfect, but who will well for

“When I despair, I remember that all through history, the way of truth and love has always won. There have been tyrants and murderers and for a time they can seem invincible, but in the end they always fall.

Think of it -- always.” — Gandhi Here were some of the other signs at the parades: Don’t forget to turn your clocks back 300 years. Men of quality support gender equality. Even the president is not above the law. Love Trumps Hate. Reign Reign Go Away.

If you don’t respect existence, expect resistance. Women’s rights are human rights. My daughters are not up for grabs. The Greatest of these is love. __________________ The photos of the marches tell much more than anyone’s words. Look them up!

Joanne Sales is a freelance writer, blueberry farmer, and offers workshops in EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), and the fine art of brewing Kombucha. Comments and questions about her articles and/or upcoming workshops can be directed to joanne@glasswing.com.

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WHAT’S UP WITH LOCAL BUSINESS? NEW • MOVING • CLOSING • CHANGING

There's some moving and shaking going on in the neighbourhood ...

Owners, Mac Snobellen and Betsy Poel, have moved their iconic Bowser Builders' Supply (Irly Bird) to its new location across from Magnolia Court in Bowser. Settled into much larger digs and capped with a signature red metal roof, the strategic move gives this successful business more room to realize their vision of an expanded building supply and hardware store to meet the needs of their customers from Union Bay to Qualicum Beach, and beyond. Congratulations, Mac and Betsy, and I wish you much success as you continue to grow your business in Bowser!

7021 W Island Hwy, Bowser · (250) 757-8442 _____________

operate HeBrews (affectionately known as The Brew) on 2nd Avenue in Qualicum Beach, where they offer their branded coffee, Tienes Grano.

Congratulations Colin and Linda! I wish you much success in your newest venture.

Bean Counter Cafe: 6996 West Island Hwy, Bowser HeBrews: 109 W 2nd Ave, Qualicum Beach Both locations are open 7 days a week Before too long, try one of Colin's "Breakfast Bagels" at HeBrews. You won't be disappointed! ~

Colin and Linda Hearn recently announced they have finalized the purchase of the Bean Counter Cafe in Bowser from long-time owners Sheila and Darrell Hutchison; the Hearns take the helm on March 1st, 2017. Colin and Linda also own and

Surgery • Medicine • X-Ray Dental Laboratory • Ultrasound Prescription Pet Foods Flea Products

Weekdays 8am - 5pm

6030 W. Island Hwy. in Qualicum Bay

Doctor On Call 24 Hours

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250-757-9911

House Calls Available

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Superior Service • Realistic Rates • Qualified Technicians

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL!

General Repairs • GM Specialists Tires • Brakes • Batteries • Tune-ups Your local BCAA Tower Motor Vehicle Inspections AllData Equipped “And Shop Key”

DESIGNATED INSPECTION FACILITY

20 Hilliers Road, Qualicum Beach

Valentine‛s Day Luncheon & Fashion Show

Wednesday, February 8th, 2017 Once a month on the Second Sunday of every month from 8am ‘til noon, it’s been a long-standing Qualicum Bay tradition to check out the Market and have breakfast with neighbours and community!

12 noon to 3pm · doors open at 11:30 Tickets $15 • includes lunch and dessert Door Prizes • 50/50 • FUN!

YOU’RE INVITED! Lighthouse Community Centre, 240 Lions Way in Qualicum Bay

“Help support local highschool scholarship programs”

Artisans, Crafters and Farmers Wanted! Join the Market!

Call today to rent your table at the next market! secondsundaymarket@gmail.com • www.communityhall.ca

Bowser Legion, 7035 W. Island Highway, Bowser

778-424-9900

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Our tide table measurements are taken from the Hornby Island substation.

For other tides, visit http://www.tides.gc.ca/eng on the Internet.

Printed courtesy Canadian Hydrographic Service.

LOCAL TIDE February 2017

Phone: 250-757-8944 Fax: 250-757-8654

Open daily 8am to 8pm

WORKSHOPS / CLASSES FIRST 25 WORDS $10+GST

THE CAT’S MEOW “In Your Home”

TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD

Pet Sitting Services

Phone: 250-757-9914

Email: classified@eyesonbc.com SERVICES OFFERED / NEEDED THE FIX-IT SHOP – Repairs to all makes and models of lawnmowers and ride on lawn tractors, including John Deere. Pick-up and delivery available. Used equipment for sale. Call (250) 702-2191 or email fixitshop009@gmail.com LIGHTHOUSE TRAILS GROUP Needs your volunteer help! FMI Call: Val Weismiller: (250) 757-9667.

CAREGIVER NEEDED - Looking for a caregiver for our 2 children (2 & 6 yrs old) - $11.50/hr, 40 hrs/week, optional free accommodation.

Large dog at house. 250-240-8119

Specializing in spoiling your beloved pets!

Loving & Reliable care of your cats & small dogs in your home while you are away. Fully insured & Bonded, 20+ years in business, great references.

Servicing Qualicum to Fanny Bay! Also providing other "away from home" services & overall security checks during my visits.

Enjoy a worry-free vacation and come home to happy pets! *Free nail clipping! www.thecatsmeowcatsitting.com

Amanda (250) 457-0998 Come visit me on Facebook!

EFT - EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUE WORKSHOPS - Learn how this effective technique can help you find your way to better emotional health. joanne@glasswing. com www.islandhealing.ca KOMBUCHA - Make Your Own Kombucha Workshops offered in Coombs by Joanne Sales who has been making Kombucha for over 20 years. Contact Joanne for more information about both these workshops. joanne@glasswing. com www.islandhealing.ca

WORSHIP

WILDWOOD COMMUNITY CHURCH 113 McColl Road, Bowser

Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 am 757-8136

LIGHTHOUSE · COMMUNITY CENTRE AVAILABLE FOR RENTALS INFORMATION

240 LIONS WAY, QUALICUM BAY

WWW.COMMUNITYHALL.CA F E B R U A R Y

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inspectors helpful? From your experience, can you say that the RDN is more difficult to deal with than other jurisdictions?

FROM THE DESK OF THE DIRECTOR BILL VEENHOF

Regional Director, Area H billveenhof.com - ph: 778-424-2810 ■ bill.veenhof@shaw.ca

Have you encountered situations where a stamp was requested, but the building was designed to meet the code? Once a stamp is in place, should there be less RDN scrutiny of the plan? Is there too much?

BUILDING PERMITS This is a request for your input.

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n the 2017 Work Plan for RDN Planning Staff to work towards streamlining the processes and addressing the issues associated with Building Permits and Inspection.

From an Area H perspective, I think I am on solid ground with some of the issues, but I would like to hear about your lessons and challenges. If you have issues and experience with this item, I would like to hear from.

From my perspective, following is what I have heard and I pose some questions, (I need to hear more and get advice on how we can do things better), Caveat, what I write below is what I have heard, I don’t know if it is 100% accurate.

Feel free to comment on these or other issues. In today’s electronic world nothing is completely confidential but I assure you that any comments you provide, that I forward to staff, will be made without your name on it: When you approach the RDN for a permit or land use item: • Was your interaction with Staff helpful?

• Can the RDN do more to guide you through the process?

• Do you have suggestions to make it better?

• I hear there is a growing demand for an engineer’s “stamp” on plans.

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• The Home Owner Protection Office (now known as Licensing and Consumer Services) has recently increased the certification requirements for both Owner Builders and Licensed Residential Builders (contractors). This organization is under Provincial jurisdiction and the RDN has no direct influence. This said, we can advocate with the Province on your behalf and I am willing to do so if this is an issue. Are the new certification requirements onerous?

Are they necessary?

• Is the wait time for building permit approval too long?

• Delays in inspection times. The RDN tries to have an inspector on site within 48 hours of the request.

For a builder it is very important to have this certainty, as sequencing the trades is a key element of the construction process. In your experience are inspection turn around times appropriate? What should be done if the RDN cannot meet the 48 hours?

• Do you think that RDN inspectors fairly represent the Building Code? In your experience, is an RDN inspection the same as an inspection in Parksville or Qualicum Beach? Are the

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• Is there a disconnect between what you are told at the front desk and the reality of when you go through the process. This applies to the permitting process and land use. In other words, have you encountered, “Oh by the way, you need to do this”?

• When you apply for a permit, are you informed of the costs? There are RDN costs, but also costs for professional fees (surveys, etc), do you understand what they are?

• Do you think that the RDN asks for too many redundant (extra) geotechnical, hydrogeological, biological and surveys? Certainly I have heard complaints of additional “pop up” survey requests after the foundation is poured and after a survey has already been accomplished. Is this a communication issue?

• Would you support an optional survey at the end of the process that gives you an opportunity to provide feedback to the RDN? Should it be anonymous? Note that staff are already working on this.

CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS One of our Board members pointed out that, in celebration of Chinese New Year, the China National Opera and Dance Drama Theatre will be presenting a “Melody of China” that highlights the national culture and combines refined and popular taste. It should be an interesting cultural opportunity. For more information see: http://www. porttheatre.com/events/feb-2017/chinanational-opera-dance-drama-theatermelody-china/ Refreshments will be provided courtesy of the RDN. continued next page ...

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FREE Teen Disco Skate continued from previous page ...

Let DJ Allgood and flashing disco lights take you back in time. Disco costumes welcome! Sat Feb 18, 7:158:45pm. Free admission and skate rentals. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks 250-248-3252 or view skate and swim schedules online at www.rdn. bc.ca/recreation.

RDN RECREATION AND PARKS FEBRUARY EVENTS AND PROGRAMS Parksville Lion’s and Save-OnFoods Free Family Skate

Winter Carnival Skate

This popular session is back.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, 19yrs+. Pond hockey is not available during this session.

Head to Oceanside Place Arena on Sundays February 5, 12, 19, 26 from 12:15 to 1:45 pm. Free Event. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks 250-2483252 or view skate and swim schedules online at www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

Brighten the winter days with a fun carnival on ice at Oceanside Place Arena. Participate in carnival games and win tickets to bid on prizes at the end of the skate session. Sunday, February 19 from 2:00 to 3:30 pm.

Regular admission Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks 250-248-3252 or view skate and swim schedules online at www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

Dad’s Night Out: Free Skate

This course is designed to teach youth about injury prevention.

Home hazards, safety education, CPR, automated external defibrillation and first aid skills for common emergencies are all covered. Retraining is recommended every 3 years. Qualicum Commons on Friday, February 24th from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, cost is $84.40. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks at 250-7525014 to pre-register. View recreation programs online at rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

BC Provincial Family Day Swim and Skate events Both Ravensong Aquatic Centre and Oceanside Place Arena are open to celebrate BC Provincial Family Day on Monday February 13th. Free admission to both of these events is courtesy of CUPE 401, Canadian Union of Public Employees.

Red Cross AED/CPR C 14yrs+

• Free Family Swim from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm • Free Family Skate from 1:00 to 5:00 pm Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks 250752-5014 or 250-248-3252 or view swim and skate schedules online at www.rdn. bc.ca/recreation.

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Save a life...when only seconds count. GET TRAINED. This course is required for lifeguards. Topics covered are CPR and blocked airways for adults, children and infants as well as an introduction to automated external defibrillators.

Qualicum Commons Saturday, February 25th from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm, cost is $71. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks at 250-752-5014 to pre-register. View recreation programs online at rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

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This course is designed to teach people about injury prevention.

Home hazards, safety education, CPR, automated external defibrillation and first aid skills for common emergencies are all covered. Retraining is recommended every 3 years. Qualicum Commons on Saturday, February 25th from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, cost is $84.40. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks at 250-7525014 to pre-register. View recreation programs online at rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

Red Cross Standard First Aid with AED/CPR C 14yrs+

Youth Red Cross Emergency First Aid with AED/CPR 13-18yrs

Dads, bring the kids to Oceanside Place Arena and enjoy a free skate together on the pond Tuesday, February 7th from 6:30 to 7:30 pm.

This free skate is sponsored by our partners at Building Learning Together. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks 250-248-3252 or view skate and swim schedules online at www.rdn. bc.ca/recreation.

Red Cross Emergency First Aid with AED/CPR 14yrs+

This is a 16 hour course that includes training in cardio pulmonary resuscitation level C, automated external defibrillation, injury prevention, first aid treatment of shock, bleeding, broken bones and more. This is a pre-requisite for National Lifeguard certification. Qualicum Commons two days, Saturday and Sunday, February 25th and 26th from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, cost is $155.35. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks at 250-752-5014 to pre-register.

View recreation programs online at www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation FoodsafeLevel 1 FOODSAFE Level 1 is a food handling, sanitation and work safety course designed for front line food service workers such as cooks, servers, bussers, dishwashers, and deli workers. The course covers important food safety and worker safety information including foodborne illness, receiving and storing food, preparing food, serving food, cleaning and sanitizing.

Oceanside Place Arena on Friday, February 24th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, cost is $60. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks at 250-752-5014 to pre-register. View recreation programs online at rdn.bc.ca/recreation ~

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TALES FOR THE TELLING

Wideness & Wonder of Georgia O’Keeffe Friday, February 17, 2017, at 7:30 pm (doors open at 7:00) Tickets $15 for non-members, $12 for OCAC members

Tickets available online at mcmillanartscentre.com/events/the-wideness-wonder-of-georgia-okeefe or at the MAC Tues-Sat 10AM-4PM “I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life, and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing,” said artist Georgia O’Keeffe.

Join storyteller Margaret Murphy in a celebration of the magic and wonder of this timeless, remarkable woman. Follow O’Keeffe from her early years in New York to her years in New Mexico as Margaret takes you on Georgia's journey.

Margaret Murphy started sharing stories as a child, with puppet shows in her backyard in Ottawa. Telling stories lead to writing and a great circle of creating, listening and sharing. Stories are her passion. Margaret especially loves coaching and teaching storytelling workshops. Celebrating stories of Canadian women who paved the way is one of her greatest joys. Margaret trained at the Toronto School of Storytelling and has over 20 years experience as a Professional Storyteller.

Experience the power and joy of our unique storytelling series!

McMillan Arts Centre · 133 McMillan Street - Parksville 1 8

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SEAFARERS They hear the thunder sunder skies around them and feel the flicker of St. Elmo’s fire as winds whip spindrift sheets from tips of combers and lightning forks across the cambered sky whose hunting hurricanes have swamped a dory, keel-hauled below a hull of nights of rain where birds attack a gust and then are swatted— the Bluenose from the Grand Banks still maintains

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eing at sea in storm conditions evokes wonder, exhilaration and sometimes fear. If you have to manage the boat, or perhaps row it, great demands are placed on you. When you come back safely to shore, you feel like a bit of a hero. This poem expresses those feelings and refers to some real nautical heroes. It closes with thoughts of the many who never made it home.

About this Poem ...

With minor variations to make the rhythm more interesting, this poem is written in iambic pentameter (five beats per line, with a da-DA rhythm). It has simple four-line stanzas with the second and fourth lines rhyming. Some rhymes are full (e.g. "odds" and "gods") and some are slant (e.g. "fire" and "sky"). With such a mixture, the first rhyme has to be slant to avoid the disappointment that flows from starting with full rhyme then reverting to slant. The words exhibit significant internal rhyme (e.g. "thunder sunder" in the first line) and alliteration (e.g. "feel", "flicker", and "fire" in line two). ~

her course against the blows that lash at Longhope where Hoy’s few lifeboatmen defy all odds and broach against impassable sea-towers, against the gales which strain their faith in gods and swell the sails of Somerled’s great Dragon, a hundred gallowglasses breaking backs at oars to ram the Viking horde amidships before they make the shore with fire and axe, cleave bone like ice before the bows of Franklin until the Northwest Passage pillows his head, consigns him to a feast of friends and failure and leaves him icebound, coffined—shipmates dead, like mariners who perished down the ages below the maelstrom and the whirling gyre for whales, for war, for riches, for escapism, for wanderlust, for horizon-fired desire; these seamen broke the bounds of raw survival and, breaching breakers, bore away from shore— their sextants shot the stars and plotted courses and now the Sea’s their sexton evermore.

John Beaton lives in Qualicum Beach. His poetry has been widely published. He served for four years as moderator of one of the Internet’s most reputable poetry workshops and is a Spoken Word performer, a member of the band Celtic Chaos, and a co-organizer of local events, including a community showcase for musicians and Spoken Word performers, the Qualicum Acoustic Café (QUAC). You can find samples of John’s work by searching online for “John Beaton poetry”. To receive a monthly newsletter about local community events organized by John and his family and friends, email him at jabeaton@gmail.com. ~ F E B R U A R Y

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LIONS RECREATION HALL (LRH) 280 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay.

Lighthouse Country & beyond LIGHTHOUSE COMMUNITY CENTRE (LCC) 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay. SECOND SUNDAY MARKET at the Lighthouse Community Centre in Qualicum Bay – Sunday February 12th - 8am-noon, Pancake Breakfast - $6 or $8. Enjoy live music, breakfast, shopping for a treasure, or even a few chickens for your coop!

Members of the Qualicum Beach Lions Club will be serving up breakfast this month.

BOW HORNE BAY COMMUNITY CLUB Join us in the Nordin Room at the Lighthouse Community Centre the 4th Thursday of each month at 7pm. Welcome new members to keep our yearly events ongoing. Call Lynette at 250-240-3463 or email us at bowhornebayclub@gmail.com SOUPY CAFÉ - COMMUNITY LUNCH - By Donation. 1st Wednesday of each month.

Noon To 1:30pm only. Lunch, games, entertainment. Lighthouse Community Centre - 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay. All welcome.

At the Lighthouse Community Centre LIGHTHOUSE BADMINTON, PICKLEBALL, AND TABLE TENNIS on Mondays at 7pm, starting Monday Sept 19th. PICKLEBALL and TABLE TENNIS on Thursdays at 7pm, starting Thursday Sept. 22nd. Times may change. $4 drop-in fee. Beginners welcome. Equipment provided. Players 15+ years. Info-ph. 250757-8307 steelehunt@shaw.ca LIGHTHOUSE SENIORS – Branch 152 – meet at 11:30am in the Seniors Room at the Lighthouse Community Centre on the first Monday of every month. For more information, please call Joan at 250-7579536.

TAOIST™ TAI CHI - Mondays 9:30-noon at the Lighthouse Community Centre in Qualicum Bay. Wednesdays to May 2017, 10:45-12:15, at the OAP Hall in Fanny Bay. Contact: Richard 250-752-1231.

LIGHTHOUSE SPINNERS – Bring your Spinning Wheels and fibre and meet the Lighthouse Spinners at the LCC, Tuesdays at 10:30am. FMI Call 778-424-1001.

CARPET BOWLING – 12:45 to 3pm at the LCC. FMI Call Layne (250) 757-8217.

AA LIGHTKEEPERS - Fridays at 7pm at the LCC. FMI contact (250) 757-2300.

BRIDGE – Nordin Room 1-4pm Fridays at the LCC. FMI Sheila Steele 250-757-8307.

FOR MORE ACTIVITIES AT THE LCC, VISIT WWW.COMMUNITYHALL.CA

PARKSVILLE / QUALICUM BEACH AND AREA HAPPY WANDERERS’ TRAVEL CLUB meets at the Shelley Road Hall (Parksville) on Wednesday, February 22/17. Travel desk opens at 1:30; regular meeting begins at 2:00. New members welcome. Please bring your own coffee mug or tea cup.

COOMBS FAIR FAMILY DAY: Monday, February 13, 1 - 4 pm, 1014 Ford Road Coombs. All events will be indoors, and FREE!! Demos, crafts & games, free food & drinks (while supplies last!). www. coombsfair.com or 250-248-4458.

The EAGLECREST GARDEN CLUB meets on Wednesday Feb 15,2017 at 7 PM, Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. All welcome. NonMembers $3. Speaker: SCOTT WISKERKE. Topic: Pruning tree, shrubs, conifers, berries to promote flowering & fruiting.

FMI: Jenny 250-954-3888.

QUALICUM BEACH FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY will hold its regular meeting on Wednesday, February 15, 7pm at the Qualicum Legion. Guest speaker will be Mary Maillard, with ‘Whispers of Cruel Wrongs: The Correspondence of Louisa Jacobs and her Circle’. Guests welcome.

Let's FLOOR CURL! Join our floor curling club for winter fun and friendship! We play September to May on Mondays and Fridays, 1-3pm at the Lions Rec Hall in lovely Qualicum Bay. No equipment is needed, curling rocks are supplied, and floor curling is affordable, easy to play and great for all ages and capabilities. Our Club is "55+ Seniors Games" eligible. FMI call Fred or Lorraine at 250-752-0216.

LIGHTHOUSE COUNTRY SCRAPBOOKERS Meet 3rd Saturday monthly at the Lions' Rec Hall, 9:30am-4:30pm. $10. Door prizes. FMI Jorgie 250-757-8358 or Shirley 250-7578384.

QUALICUM BAY LIONS CLUB – Meet at 7pm, every second and fourth Tuesday in the Lions Den at the Lions’ Rec Hall.

The MCMILLAN ARTS CENTRE is featuring four artists in two exhibits for the month of February. Opening reception is February 4, 2017 from 1-3pm and the public is welcome to join the MAC for complimentary refreshments and an opportunity to meet the artists.

SUSAN SCHAEFER: Solo exhibition of original paintings is titled “ Prairie Whispers … Depicting the Quiet Beauty of the Prairies.” The exhibition will be comprised of prairie-themed landscapes, funky old barns and sheds, and of course iconic elevators. Residing in Parksville, Susan is active in the artist community and is publisher of the Island Arts Magazine a successful Vancouver Island arts magazine, now into its 10th year.

GROUP OF THREE: a joint exhibition by artists Elissa Anthony, Lloyd Major and Judy Maxwell. Elissa, Lloyd and Judy have been friends for many years and thought it was about time to do a joint show of their latest works. All three are oil painters and specialise in landscapes of Vancouver Island, the Interior and the prairies. These professional painters have sold far and wide and teach others how to paint and enjoy the process.

For more information, visit the MCA website at www.mcmillanartscentre.com

Community Calendar listings are reserved for non-profit organizations, societies, clubs and associations operating within the guidelines of the Society Act of BC, and to charities registered with Canada Revenue Agency.

Listings are first-come, first-served, space permitting. More events at www.eyesonbc.com 2 0

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ECHO Players' Marion Bridge ...

HITS CLOSE TO THE HEART

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arion Bridge by Daniel MacIvor is a fusion of comedy, drama and “the warm, accessible soul of a writer whose honesty and compassion for both audiences and his characters is at the heart of all of his work" —Variety. Born in Sydney, Cape Breton, Daniel MacIvor has earned wide acclaim as a director, actor, playwright and screenwriter. As a writer, MacIvor has perhaps earned most widespread recognition for his 1998 Governor-General’s Award nominated play Marion Bridge.

(Waterfront News) The play’s title refers to a small town in Cape Breton named for the bridge that crosses the Mira River, one of Nova Scotia’s longest and widest rivers. Marion Bridge was made famous through a popular Canadian folk song, Song for the Mira, written by Allister MacGillivray, which contained the refrain: "Can you imagine a piece of the universe, More fit for princes and kings?

I’ll trade you ten of your cities for Marion Bridge, And the pleasure it brings." (Wikipedia) Edward Willett, for The Leader-Post stated, “Marion Bridge is about journeys ... and, appropriately, bridges.”

This is true. Every well written play is a journey. It represents a “slice of life” that resonates with the audience and the creative ensemble of actors, and production teams. At first glance, Marion Bridge seems to be a stereotypical play about a dysfunctional family.

“The premise sounds like the set-up to a joke: ‘A nun, an actress and a soap-opera addict walk into a kitchen

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..."(Edward Willett, for the Leader-Post.) But Daniel MacIvor’s script invites the audience and the troupe into a deeper landscape. Marion Bridge is about three East Coast women trying to tell their own story, and to get that story exactly right. The play is infused with love, bickering and laughter. ECHO Players invites the audience to come, enjoy and get to know Agnes (Heather Haseltine), Theresa (Vicki Barta), and Louise (Cheryl Dendoff) as they brawl and scrap their way through grief, big issues, and their mutual animosity and love for each other. Director Wendy Punter’s aim is to create intimacy between the performers and the audience. “I love this play. It really is about telling a story and building a bridge between the people on stage and the members of our audience.”

“This is just a beautiful and funny story, told exceptionally well, that begs to be shared. A strong and achingly heart piece that you really need to make time to see.” (Cindy Beaton, Visitorium) This touching drama infused with humour and sure to be a crowd pleaser, is ECHO Players’ entry into Theatre BC’s North Island Zone Festival. ~ Marion Bridge – by Daniel MacIvor | February 16 - March 5, 2017| Village Theatre| 7:30 p.m. – Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. | Tickets available at the Village Theatre box office 110 West 2nd Avenue, Qualicum Beach, or by phone 250.752.3522 or by E-mail info@echoplayers.ca | $20 adult – $17 seniors – $11 students (with valid card). For more information visit www.echoplayers.ca

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Massage

Service and Repairs Treatment Plant Certified Assessments Available

interior decorating

Septic Installation

SEPTIC & WASTE MANAGEMENT

Home Repairs

Sani Services

We encourage you to “think local” when looking for products or services

250-752-2921

Sage Simply Accounting & QuickBooks

Drywall

Bookkeeping Services

Heating

Bookkeeping

www.actiontankservice.ca

FREE CONSULATION

250-248-2429 www.hbhorizon.ca

Philip Brown

250-240-4902 • 250-757-8077

Plumbing

INSTALLATION SERVICE & REPAIRS

Land Surveying

PLUMBING • GAS • HEATING

surveyor-ark@uniserve.com

MAGAZINE

Next time ... a potential client could read your ad in this space.

Call 250-757-9914 2 2

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Windows • Glass Repair

EVENINGS

Chimney Cleaning

ADVERTISING

Plumbing Gas Heating

Unit #2 - 1306 Alberni Hwy, Parksville

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DISCOVER LIGHTHOUSE COUNTRY We're known for our beautiful forest trails, wildlife, ocean vistas, inviting motels and resorts, but just wait 'til you check out our local eateries!

Explore and Savour

Deep Bay - Bowser - Qualicum Bay Horne Lake - Spider Lake