ISSUE 24 | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2019 SHARING THE DIRECTION OF VANCOUVER ISLAND COMMUNITIES
FOOD FOR T H O U G HT
EcoTourism: Are We Ready?
VA NC O UV E R IS L A N D ’ S N E W C O U NT RY STAT I O N
100.7 FM The Raven
S H I FT H A P P E NS
Seasonal Affective Disorder A RT F E AT U R E
THE
SPONSORED COPIES FREE INSTORE OR RETAIL PURCHASE $5CAD
RETURN
OF SOMETHING
IMPORTANT SUN MASK AT U’MISTA
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SHARING THE DIRECTION OF VANCOUVER ISLAND COMMUNITIES
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OFF THE BEATEN PATH Crest Mountain Trail Bud Logan
WALKING IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS
Mr Gordan Gibson & the Tahsis Sawmill Bud Logan
OCEAN CHRONICLES
Seasons of the Harbour Seal Josh McInnes
ARTIST FEATURE THE RETURN OF SOMETHING IMPORTANT Sun Mask at U'mista Kealy Donaldson
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THE RAVEN 100.7
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CREATURES OF THE NORTHWEST COAST
Vancouver Island's New Country Radio Station Kealy Donaldson
Coastal Salmon Bud Logan
NATUROPATHIC INSPIRATIONS
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Use Nutraceuticals to Complement Pharmaceuticals
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Seasonal Affective Disorder
Ingrid Pincott, ND
SHIFT HAPPENS
Andrea Wagemaker
www.CompassMagazine.ca
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COMPASS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 24 |OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2019
PUBLISHER'S NOTE Being at your Best! The change of season brings the transition from ample outside time to indoor projects. Keeping our energy levels high and personal health & wellness top of mind. With the coming weather, it’s critical to maintain a fresh diet and physical activity as much as possible. For some, this is a task within itself, staying on track. Remember that without our own strength, we can't look after others. Speaking of strengths, this publication is supported by amazing contributors! At this time, I am taking on an outside project and will be handing over the reins to Bud Logan as Interim Publishing Editor for 2020. I’m excited to see more of Bud’s contributions in Compass Magazine, and I know we are in good hands! Gilakasla – Marsii!
I am honoured to be taking on the role of Interim Publishing Editor for the Compass Magazine for 2020. I have been with the magazine for for five years, and I will work diligently to ensure that the Compass continues to be a first-class magazine! Bud Logan
Cheers
Kealy Donaldson PUBLISHER compassmagazine@ourmail.com www.compassmagazine.ca
MAGAZINE PUBLISHER Kealy Donaldson
COVER
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jessie Stones
U’mista Cultural Centre
Compass Magazine is produced & published on Vancouver Island paper by:
Josh McInnes
Kiki's Communications Inc. ISSN# 2369-8063 2100 Park Road Campbell River, BC V9W 4P7 250.203.1880 compassmagazine@ourmail.com www.compassmagazine.ca Connect with us Facebook | LinkedIn Kealy Donaldson Bud Logan Josh McInnes To Advertise & Subscribe Kealy: 250.203.1880 In-Store Purchase $5 | Back Issues $10 Annual Subscription $50 6 Issues
Sun Mask – Artist Unknown
CONTRIBUTORS Bud Logan Mary Ashley Andrea Wagemaker Ingrid Pincott, ND James L. Anderson Chad Braithwaite Joseph McLean Kealy Donaldson
PUBLISHER PHOTO Kim Sleno Photography Entire magazine contents are copyright. All rights reserved.
We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.
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250.203.7133 1007theraven@ourmail.com Station Location 1515 Southgate Drive, Campbell River Mailing 1218 Bute Crescent, Homalco First Nation, Campbell River, BC V9H 1G5 W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A
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All Photos Š Bud Logan
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Bud Logan
The Crest Mountain Trail is a premier trail
Take the trail that crosses the creek between the Drum
on north Vancouver Island. It is steep but the views
Lakes with a nice wooden bridge. After hiking for
of Kings Peak and Elkhorn Mountain, along with the
about 30 minutes you will reach a log crossing that
other Island mountains seen from the top, more than
goes over a flowing creek. This is the last chance for
make up for it. But be warned, this a demanding trail!
water until you reach the top so fill your water bottles
It will take you between three and five hours to reach
here. The water is awesome.
the top, climbing steeply for most of the way. It's a
As you climb, you will begin to see the mountain peaks
great trail with many awesome views. The trail is well-
through the thinning tree cover, and if you are like me,
marked and easy to follow but for most of its way, it's
you will find your pace increasing a bit in order to get
very steep. This is a trail that only those in good phys-
high enough for the great views. Once you near the
ical condition should attempt.
top, the trail flattens out somewhat and you can slow
The trail is about 5 km one way and climbs to just over 1300 meters. You access the trail from the Drum Lake pullout. The trail starts at the end of the parking lot.
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your speed in order to enjoy the views. To your right is a nice rock bluff and if you don’t feel like going any further this is a great place to enjoy the views. In fact, the views are a tad better here than on the peak itself.
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Photo Š City of Campbell River
If you must set your hiking boot on the peak, then follow the trail to the little mountain lake and head to the left around it keeping to the trail right beside the water. About halfway down the length of the lake look for a rock cairn to your left. This trail will take you to the peak. From here on in, just follow the rock cairns and you will be on top in no time flat.
Watch for the whiskey jacks and get ready to laugh with joy as they land all over you looking for treats. We like to bring some granola bars or pepperoni up to entice the jays in. They just love the pepperoni. Sometimes you can have quite a few sitting on you. This a great area of Vancouver Island. There are many trails in the vicinity, some half day trips and others take multiple days to complete. To get to the Crest Peak Trail head just follow highway 28 from Campbell River (the Gold River Highway). Once you cross the Buttle Lake Narrows Bridge, drive for about 20 more minutes and you will reach the Drum Lakes. There is a pull out parking area between the two lakes and here you will find the trail head for Crest Mountain Trail.
Bud Logan has lived on Vancouver Island since 1961 and has a deep love of the Island’s wild places. Visit Bud at www.gohiking.ca W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A
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WALKING IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS Bud Logan
MR GORDAN GIBSON & THE
Tahsis SAWMILL
For thousands of years the Mowachaht/
along with a school, stores and a hotel. You could only
Muchalaht have lived on Nootka Island and all along the
reach Tahsis by steamer or by air at this time but the
Tahsis inlet. At the head of the inlet was a trade route
town was booming.
that allowed them to trade with the Namgis of the Nimpkish Valley. This route was known as the Woss grease trail. There are two rivers that flow into the inlet right at Tahsis, and once it was a place where salmon spawned in great numbers; people would gather here to fish.
In 1963, my Sister Peachy and her husband Peter moved to Tahsis where Pete was hired as the Head Chef of the Tahsis Hotel. I came to visit them in 1964, as a lad of nine years old. When I got off the plane I was amazed at the fact that most of the cars were tiny three-wheeled
In 1778, Captain Cook came on a mission of explora-
autos. They were everywhere; the reason for this was
tion. The Spanish were already here and had laid claim.
that all autos had to be either barged in which was quite
The Spanish had built some structures on Nootka Is-
costly or brought in by the freighter that arrived ev-
land at Yuquot. Captain Cook returned here in 1792 for
ery few days from Gold River. This was much cheaper,
a meeting with Captain Juan Bodega of Spain. Captain
but there was a size limit, as they had to fit below deck,
Cook had come to Nootka to take prossession of land
hence the small three wheelers.
that an Englishman, John Meares, had purchased from the first Chief Maquinna and the second ranking Chief Callicum of the Mowachaht/Muchalaht people in 1788. After the land was signed over to Captain Cook, the Spanish left Nootka Island and the people removed the Spanish buildings and reclaimed the island.
The Conuma Fish Hatchery was built in the early 70s and a road into Head Bay from the Hatchery was built. This is only a few miles from Tahsis, and in 1972 the road to town from Head Bay was opened. This attracted more people to Tahsis. Tahsis also became incorporated in 1972, with the election of the first Mayor and Council.
This part of British Columbia remained largely un-
At that time, over 2500 people lived in the village, but
changed except for the fur traders who worked the area,
after the mill closed, people began to move away. Now
and in the early 1900s loggers began to arrive. Sever-
there are only about 300 permanent residents, but this
al companies attempted to run mills in the Tahsis area
expands during the summer months.
unsuccessfully until a Mr Gordan Gibson came to Tahsis in the 40s and built the Tahsis sawmill. He cleared the valley and ran local wood through the mill, and the town of Tahsis got its big break. The mill provided financial stability for the town, and people began to move there. First came the loggers, then in the 50s the village of Tahsis expanded and two churches were built,
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The Tahsis economy runs on tourism now and the village is very peaceful. My family and I love getting out here to hike and explore, there are some of the best caves on the Island in the area, and the Woss grease trail is another very popular hike. If you like hiking, caving and fishing, then this is a great place for a destination holiday.
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Photo Š Bud Logan
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
ECOTOURISM ARE WE READY? Bud Logan
Vancouver Island is one of those magical places
communities have been drawing in Eco-Tourists who
filled with giant trees and falling water‌. a place of end-
journey here to learn about the Island's native cultures
less solitude, a place of mists, a place of wonder. Our
and get out hiking, kayaking or wildlife watching for
mountains and valleys, rivers and lakes, forests and
quite some time and they are doing well.
waterfalls, and communities that are dotted along the coast are just waiting to be explored by the new breed
In this era of increased accessibility to the Island, both
of Eco-Tourist.
on land and along our ocean-shores, tour operators and local government are promoting our natural resourc-
Our accessible wilderness and our natural wonders like
es to draw this new breed of tourist to the Island and
mountains, lakes, rivers, whales, bears, and elk along
provide them with the adventures they are seeking. The
with First Nation cultures are the main draws that pull
challenge to eco-tourism is to preserve our natural re-
the adventure-seeking tourists to our shores. This in-
sources from harm, while at the same time promoting
crease in tourism must be done in an environmental,
to the world what we have to offer. Done correctly, this
ethical and responsible way. This will decrease any
will preserve the Island's wilderness for future tourism
adverse effect on both the wilderness that is the main
and local enjoyment, and at the same time, accommo-
draw and at the same time protect the environment
date the influx of tourists. Island businesses are creating
for the future. Ecotourism is flourishing rapidly on
countless eco-tourism opportunities, and local com-
all parts of Vancouver Island. The tourists themselves
munities and governments are working alongside these
have evolved. They are now actively seeking wilderness
businesses to promote the many options for wilderness
adventures, it's why they come here. This presents both
adventures we have to offer.
a challenge and an opportunity for both government and private operators to cash in on this while operating
Vancouver Island is an amazing place, full of won-
in an environmentally ethical way.
der, grand vistas, and friendly people. The eco-tourists are realizing this and the Island is becoming the
Eco-tourism must benefit local communities economi-
destination of choice for those looking for wilderness
cally in order to be accepted by local populations. We are
adventures when they come to Canada. Vancouver
benefiting from this. You can see this all over Vancouver
Island is a premier, world-class Eco-tourism destina-
Island; they stay in hotels, buy local foods and fuel, and
tion. This will foster economic stability while helping
seek out wilderness tours and the economic benefits of
to preserve the remaining wilderness areas for future
this are only getting stronger. North Vancouver Island
generations.
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COMMUNITY IN ACTION Mary Ashley
Campbell River is a great place to live, and one of its greatest assets is the Campbell River Community Foundation. The goal of the Foundation and its Directors is simply to help make a better life for all who care about the people in the greater Campbell River area. With the help of donors we are building a permanent endowment fund. The fund has grown over the past few years to over $2 million and each year, the interest is used for grants to charitable organizations who match the passion to keep and to build Campbell River’s positive way of life. The leaders of non-profit societies have used the grants for everything from social needs such as mental health to environmental projects and cultural betterment. Because the fund is a permanent “umbrella” for the community, the grants will continue into the foreseeable future. We can all celebrate this month as “Foundation Month” in Canada and we invite our citizens to join us in continuing to build the endowment fund. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to date to make our goals possible! Anyone who is interested in supporting Campbell River needs through the Foundation can contact us through our website at www.crfoundation.ca
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Photo © Josh McInnes
Ocean Chronicles
SEASONS OF THE
HARBOUR SEAL Josh McInnes
The harbour seal glided and circled
Harbour seals are easily recognized by their small size
the small school of pacific sand lance (Ammodytes
with short limbs and large prominent eyes. Their pel-
hexapterus) as it hunted just below the surface. I had
age colour varies regionally from light grey, brown to
been on my daily walk along the Ogden Point Pier-
black, with most individuals being covered in small
when I saw splashing in the near distance. The small
markings in the shapes of spots, rings, and blotches.
baitfish were using the large rock pillars and fronds of
Harbour seals reach a length of 1.5 m and a weight of
bull kelp as protective barriers from the seal’s attack.
80 kg, with males being slightly larger than females.
I began to realize that the seal was also using the pier to its advantage. Each time the sand lance clustered
Harbour seals are somewhat gregarious in nature. At
against the wall, the seal would whack them with its
haulout locations up to 200 seals can be viewed rest-
flippers, in the process stunning the fish. Once the fish
ing, molting, giving birth, and interacting with con-
were stunned, the seal would gently pick off each fish.
specifics. They also use these sites to avoid their main predators transient (Bigg’s) killer whales and large
The harbour seal (Phoca vitulina) is one of the most
predatory sharks. Densities at haulout sites increase
abundant and recognizable species of marine mam-
during breeding and pupping season, which form
mal in the Northeastern Pacific. Their overall distribu-
temporal clines along the Pacific coast. In Southeast
tion ranges from central Baja California, north to the
Alaska and the Aleutian Islands pups are born in May
Aleutian Islands and Bering Sea. In British Columbia
through June. As one goes south towards Vancouver
it is estimated that there are approximately 105,000
Island and Puget Sound the pupping season peaks in
harbour seals as of 2008, with the largest numbers oc-
July through September, while off California pups are
curring in Georgia Strait.
born in March and April.
While exploring the coast of Vancouver Island, beach
Harbour seal pups begin swimming and diving right
combers often encounter these small pinnipeds hauled
away, and nurse for four to five weeks. At this time they
out on sandy beaches, mudflats, logs, and rocky reefs.
become particularly vulnerable to predation bytran-
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sient (Bigg’s) killer whales. Studies in the Salish Sea
protected under new marine mammal regulations. It
have shown a correlation between the harbour seal
wasn’t until scat studies in the 1980’s, finally proved
pupping season and the occurrence of transient killer
that over 75% of harbour seal diet is Pacific herring and
whales.
Pacific Hake (Merluccius productus), and not salmon. Through this study we now know that harbour seals
Harbour seals are generalist predators that forage on
actually help salmon populations, as Pacific hake is a
a wide variety of prey ranging from small schooling
predator of juvenile salmon.
fish, salmon, octopus, small invertebrates, to birds. Diet is even linked to seasonal changes and life history.
Prior to governmental culls, harbour seals were hunt-
Newly weaned pups tend to forage almost exclusive-
ed by indigenous peoples for hundreds, if not thou-
ly on small marine invertebrates during the first few
sands of years on the BC coast. First Nations suste-
months. In March through May during the Pacific her-
nance hunting still continues today.
ring migration (Clupea pallasii), harbour seals follow the thousands of herring that spawn along the Pacific
Since their protection in 1970 harbour seal numbers
Coast. In late summer and autumn, some seals congre-
rebounded to potentially historic numbers. They now
gate at estuaries and river mouths awaiting migrating
face new and old threats with toxins and overfishing
salmon.
being major issues. With declining salmon stocks, fisherman are once again blaming harbour seals. New
In the 1960s it was believed that harbour seals were
proposals to cull seals have been announced, and both
the main predators of salmon, which created a mas-
seals and sea lions are now washing up dead from gun-
sive uproar in the fishing community in British Co-
shot wounds.
lumbia. Due to the complaints that seals and sea lions were damaging fishing gear and “stealing” fish from
Harbour seals provide important ecological services in
nets, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Cana-
the Pacific Northwest. As numbers of harbour seals in-
da authorized culls that decimated the population to
creased, so did the population of their main predator,
close to 10,000 animals. In 1970 harbour seals were
transient (Bigg’s) killer whales.
Josh McInnes is a cetacean ecologist and research coordinator at MarineLife Studies in Monterey Bay, CA. He taught ocean sciences at the Bamfield Marine Science Centre from 2014-2016. He lives in Victoria, BC.
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ARTIST FE ATURE
THE
RETURN OF SOMETHING IMPORTANT SU N M A S K A T U' M IS TA
It is a journey going up Island;
and the collaboration of George Hunt, which was a
the winding roads, the variables in weather and
working relationship that began in 1880’s. These two
change in season. I was extremely excited, anticipat-
men produced an incredible book of culture and
ing my visit to Alert Bay. This visit was going to allow
knowledge that has been a stakehold in the continu-
me to view the recently returned Sun Mask at U’mis-
ation of practicing traditional ceremonies and danc-
ta Cultural Centre. It was typical West Coast rain as
es for the Kwakiutl peoples. The book is titled ‘The
I left Campbell River, sheeting across my windshield,
Social Organization and the Secret Societies of the
but when I reached the Nimpkish Valley, the skies
Kwakiutl Indians’ and was discovered in a bookstore
opened sharing beautiful blue backgrounds with
in Vancouver approximately 15 years ago and identi-
sunshine and warmth.
fied as the first edition produced in 1897.
From Port McNeil, the ferry was a quick run over to
I had come to U’mista with the direct purpose of
Cormorant Island where the ‘Namgis First Nation
viewing the returned Sun Mask ~ Artist unknown, but
village of Alert Bay is located. With the sun shining
there was much more to take into account than I had
directly on the village foot print, the ferry docked
expected. Walking through the exhibit, pieces and
in Alert Bay and my destination had been reached.
information pulled my attention such as the Siustal,
Passing the Culture Shock Gallery along the beach
two headed serpent, from the 1893 World’s Fair, the
front walkway and the old Cannery building, I arrive
1920’s Kwakiutl Lion’s mask on loan from the British
at the place of the return of something important,
Museum and the 4 replica rattles which produced
U’mista Cultural Centre. U’mista was created to
under ‘Namgis Artist Wayne Alfred working with 4 ap-
house the returned potlatch regalia and items tak-
prentices. The rattles are very intriguing and unique.
en from the Kawkwaka’wakw peoples in 1922 by the
During a research session, it was discovered that
Federal Government of Canada, under the governing
the rattles may be connected to Hamatsa ceremony
Indian Agent known as Bill Halliday.
and possibly associated with the women’s traditional singing parts in this capacity.
The building has presence and it draws a great deal of locals and tourists throughout its frame. You can
Continuing through the Centre, Executive Director
feel the cultural and historic energy upon entering
Holland pointed out the reciprocal learning dialogue,
the doors of the centre. I met with U’mista Executive
powerboards that had been returned to the Centre
Director, Sarah Holland, who led me through the cur-
and a replica of a special Transformation Mask by
rent displays and exhibits. The Main Exhibit comes to
Chief Knoxx. There is also a youth component connect-
a close at the end of October. Featuring Franz Boas
ing culture and highlighting history and knowledge.
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Some of the exhibit pieces have been specifically reproduced for loan-out in the future. Schools and other galleries will be able to create programming with the use of these items. There is definitely much to share about U’mista but I would encourage you to plan your visit and not to rush your time there; there is much to see and process on site. I finally came to a place where I was ready to view the returned Sun Mask. I was excited and nervous ~ but it all came to a stop when I entered the room and saw it for myself. The very striking piece is aged but the work is recognizable and colours are still intact. My eyes are drawn to the metal rays and the deep blues, which apparently were created with a well-known cleaning agent in the early 1920’s. The metal is of mirror backing, similar to metal leaf but stronger. The red still very vibrant and complements the intricacies of what appears to be a Raven hidden in the mask. From the nose piece across the cheeks, wings are spread and extended on to the outside rim of this piece. The ovids in the eyes, curvatures in the
Photos L-R Transformation Mask; Doors to Alert Bay Big House; Exhibition Details, Boaz & Hunt; U'mista Sign; World's Tallest Totem, adjacent the Alert Bay Big House. All photos Kealy Donaldson.
brows and transitions in nose are unique as a personal style. As simplistic as it may seem, each curve and line has meaning and creates artistic signatures from the family or village of where the artist learned and apprenticed. This Sun mask is by an artist unknown. U’mista plans to have the mask forensically photographed at the end of October. The possibility of uncovering a name or initials is possible using infrared technology. The debate regarding a conservation treatment for the piece was under heavy discussion but decision was reached to keep the story piece integral. The Sun mask will be placed in U’mista display collection in the near future.
Connect with U’mista • umista.ca • umistapotlatch.ca • exhibitions.bgc.bard.edu/storybox/www.umistapotlatch.ca
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ARTIST FE ATURE
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SUN MASK AT U'MISTA ARTIST UNKNOWN
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
BEING HUMAN James L. Anderson
SECRET ALIENS AMONG US As a society we appear to be obsessed with
But are we really ready? If it were to happen tomorrow,
aliens. Spacecraft probes flung out into the far reaches
would we be able to listen and absorb what they had to
of deep space carry plaques and messages in 55 lan-
say? Would we be ready for whatever unimaginable new
guages: “Greetings from Earth. Here we are…stop by
ideas and thoughts they may bring with them? Could
anytime.” Arrays of parabolic dishes and sophisticat-
we reach out and meet them halfway? I don’t think so.
ed antennae listen day and night for any signals from
deep space. There are television programs, videos and
Listen: There are already secret aliens here among us,
movies about space travel; boldly discovering other
right now. They share our biosphere. And they have
worlds, and “contact” with new, bizarre and incredible
been here for a long, long time. Millions of years be-
life forms. Alien abductions, invasions and autopsies.
fore our ancestors left the trees and the caves they
Secret government Blue Books and conspiracies. It is a
were living here in their alien world. And that world
tidal wave of alien fixation. And it involves something
is a medium and an existence interwoven, surrounded
more than a simple curiosity, fascination and fear of
and immersed in a waterfall of sound. This waterfall of
that which is strange, foreign and shocking.
sound forms the elemental matrix of existence, com-
munication, locomotion, survival and reality for them.
I think we are transfixed with the idea of alien encounters because we secretly hope “they” will be able to give
Instead of a world of air, light, reflection, refraction,
us answers to the overwhelming problems that we seem
color and brightness, their world comes alive with fre-
to have no hope of resolving here on earth. World-wide
quency, amplitude, wavelength, echoes and vibration.
pollution. Social disintegration. Sickness. Disease. Ag-
In subtle distinctions and interpretations the fantastic
ing. Global inhumanity. Spiritual bankruptcy. And, per-
range, speed and complexity of their amazing acoustic
haps “they” know the secrets that will unravel the eter-
abilities illuminate a universe and a living existence we
nal enigma of “What we were created for”, and “What
can only dream about. We may think we are similar,
universe really means…and Why?” Such an immense
but in truth they are from a world totally different than
encounter might be the salvation for our entire trou-
ours. I refer of course to the Cetaceans. The dolphins,
bled and disintegrating world. Who is to say? It may be.
the porpoises and the whales.
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
What do we really know about them? What is really
But, there is a functioning alien mind there. And it is not
happening in that huge mind so anatomically similar,
from deep space. It is not from some extraterrestrial
yet evolved for eons in an environment so radically dif-
space civilization. It is right here under our noses.
ferent than ours? Some believe that with their sophisti-
Constant worldwide increases in ocean traffic, and
cated echolocation abilities they possess the ability, by
military and scientific experiments and research are
“sounding” internal organs, to directly sense emotions,
creating intolerable underwater noise that is slowly
mind states and moods of others. Some think that
destroying their world of natural, pure sound. These
they can somehow communicate directly in images,
are creatures that have existed on this planet for
or mind pictures. Whole pods may instantaneously
possibly 100 million years. Are we really so primitive
experience “as one” information and responses from
and selfish as to drive them to extinction just because
sound imaging or echolocation… a living example
they don’t fit into our human world of language, tech-
of the human concept of “It takes a village.” No one
nology and economics? Surely there is something vital
knows for sure. The simple truth is that after eons of
we can learn from them… before it is too late.
existence together on this planet, we still have not established two-way communication with Cetaceans.
To stop using these mystical creatures of the deep for
We still have no idea what they are thinking. Why?
our own short-sighted and selfish purposes, and to really be prepared for meaningful alien contact in any
Because, we are more interested in using them, and in
form will demand that we begin to see universe from a
“training” them to serve our purposes. To establish true
higher and more evolved perspective.
communication with this alien species would require an altruistic interest, a deep concern for them…and an
Here on “Spaceship Earth” you and I have to find the
effort to comprehend universe and reality somehow
way to stop the disintegration of our civilization and
through their eyes. Meeting them half way. But, just
to see universe from the higher ground of a universal
like in every other avenue of human existence, we real-
consciousness. And there isn’t a lot of time left. It has
ly are only interested in ourselves. So, for our purposes,
been a long time coming. But we may be a long time
it is enough to establish a rudimentary sign language
gone into silence.
with them. Hand signals. And basically, it works. They understand and do what we want. They perform tricks
Perhaps the cetaceans will miss us?
and entertain in aquariums for profit. They carry ordinance and weapons for us in strategic defense projects.
No… Probably not.
We try to understand their amazing acoustic communication only enough to develop a “natural sonar” to better equip our submarines and ships. It is a sad tale.
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© Article from Saltspring Soliloquies 2005
www.james-l-anderson.com
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
FITNESS, ETC. Chad Braithwaite
Unlock your Mind for BETTER GAINS
Photo Š twinsterphoto / Adobe Stock
Is it possible to actually improve muscle gains and hypertrophy merely by focusing more intently? Can your brain really help grow those pathetic pair of twigs you call legs?
tension, metabolic stress, and muscle damage possible while training.
But how we sharpen this internal focus? It all comes down to harnessing the power of the mind-mus-
As a matter of fact... YES! The human mind is an incredi-
cle connection and being truly mindful during every training
bly powerful entity that not only controls all aspects of your
session.
thoughts, actions, and reactions, but has the ability to serious enhance your muscle size and strength! You don't have
Mindful Training
to take our word for it though, assorted clinical trials have
How many times have you gone into the gym and merely
demonstrated that there is a clear link between focus and
gone through the exercises without any regard as to what
muscle activation.
muscles should be doing each and every rep? This is the complete opposite of mindful training. Essentially, being
In other words, if you're main goal is to improve your aes-
"mindful" is living in the moment, being present, and fo-
thetics, you need to maximize muscle activation, by inter-
cusing solely on the task at hand. Being mindful means not
nally focusing on the task at hand. By "internally" focusing,
letting your mind wander about what you have to do later
we mean that if you're performing a bicep curl, focus solely
in the day or what that cute girl across the gym thinks of
on contracting the fibers of your bicep as hard as you can.
you. You have one goal and you're focusing intently on it,
Don't focus on moving the weight, but on the intended work-
end of story.
ing muscle. This is the difference between external focus (lifting weights) and internal focus (contracting muscles).
But, maintaining a high level of focus during training isn't always easy, especially if you've had a long, stressful day at the
Performance-oriented athletes should focus more on ex-
office or are running on lack of sleep from a bad night's rest.
ternal factors such as moving a weight or hitting a ball as
This can lead to the inevitable "going through the motions"
fast as possible, but for you, the aspiring bodybuilder or
training session that really doesn't do much aside from getting
physique athlete, you need to be focused on squeezing ev-
you moving. What you're lacking on these days is one of the
ery ounce of bicep tissue during a curl. Doing so ensures
most important aspects to continually making gains, the Mind-
maximal hypertrophy as you'll create the most mechanical
Muscle Connection.
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
The Mind-Muscle Connection
doing the brunt of the lifting. It could be the anterior delts,
The brain is the central computer for the body and governs
triceps, pec minor, or any combination thereof. The point
all thoughts, movements and processes you do every
is, you're not zeroing in on your chest and thus missing out
second of every day. The first action to occur when looking
on a primetime opportunity to chisel some serious chest
to contract a muscle is a signal sent by the brain to the tar-
muscle.
get muscles, instructing them to contract. However, by being mindful and consciously thinking of initiNeurotransmitter chemicals are released by the brain to
ating the pressing movement with your chest, you're estab-
communicate with various segments of the body. Basically,
lishing a strong mind-muscle connection and ensuring that
think of neurotransmitters as chemical messengers. In the
each and every rep is performed with maximal attention go-
case of muscle contraction, the brain uses the neurotrans-
ing towards growing those pecs. After going through a few
mitter acetylcholine to instruct and communicate with all
workouts seriously focusing on your muscles and quality of
muscle of the body.
contraction, you'll realize just how inefficient your workouts were previously. With the power of the mind, you've just
The Mind-Muscle Connection comes into play at the neuro-
tapped into a whole new world of muscle growth and de-
muscular junction where the mind essentially "meets" the
velopment!
body.
How to Improve the Mind-Muscle Connection At these neuromuscular junctions, acetylcholine crosses
Let's face it, some days no matter how "present" or "mind-
synapses where it bind to various receptors on the surface
ful" you try to be, you just can't seem to get in the zone.
of a given muscle fiber, and BOOM — muscle contraction!
Rather than go through another lackluster training session,
Any way in which you can enhance this communication
invest in something that will ensure you're on top of your
between brain and muscle, the better muscle contraction
mental game no matter how little sleep or stressful your
you get due to recruiting more muscle fibers. By improving
day has been.
your mind-muscle connection, you'll significantly increase the number of individual muscle fibers recruited when you
What you need is a properly dosed supplement that signifi-
lift a weight, translating to greater muscle contractions and
cantly enhances the mind-muscle connections for superi-
bigger, better gains!
or focus and mental concentration. What you need is AnS Rave, Mammoth Neurostim, Magnum Mane Brain, Beyond
Mind-Muscle Connection for Better Gains
Nutrition Amino IQ.
So, how does the mind-muscle connections actually pay off when it comes to performing exercises specifically? First, you need to understand how the body executes an exercise. No matter which exercise you do — bench, squat, deadlift,
Chad is the owner of Fitness Etc. in Campbell River, Courtenay, and Parksville. www.fitness-etc.ca
etc — muscles are either primary or secondary movers. The primary mover is the muscle doing the majority of the work on an exercise, i.e. the "target" muscle." Secondary movers are muscles that stabilize, support, and assist the primary mover with the exercise. Let's take a look at the bench press. The primary mover or "target" working muscle is the chest. However, when benching your anterior deltoids and triceps also come into play to assist with the lift. These are the secondary movers. If you're just going through the motions on a given day while benching, you have no idea which muscles are actually
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
RAVEN BRINGS A RADIO STATION
is with great pleasure that “weIt make this announcement, ” states Aupe’s President and Homalco Chief Darren Blaney. The Aupe Cultural Enhancement Society (ACES) is launching 100.7 The Raven this November. Chief Blaney has been keeping the station venture moving forward over the past few years and designed the logo artwork especially for the radio station. As a new, contemporary country station, the Raven will reach an untapped market through Country-fan bases.
ACES launches Vancouver Island’s Hottest Country Radio
With its brand new format and independent capacity, the
100.7 THE RAVEN
ted Country which translates to 37% of the nation’s radio
Raven is ready to serve its local small and medium listening markets. The Raven’s reach will travel from Sayward to Parksville/Nanaimo North, serving Campbell River and the Comox Valley as its major listening base. The Raven’s format of New Country is one of a winning combination in markets throughout North America! In the US, an astounding 15,000 radio stations are formatstations; Canada’s listenership follows the same pattern. An independent survey stated the following Top Three engagements on how people listen to country music:
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Photos Consultant Bob Morris of Westwave Radio setting up the on-air Systems; Technical crew preparing station for on-air launch; Rigging crew picking up Antenna and tech equipment for installation
70% Listen to Country on the Radio 20% Listen to Country on-line streaming services 20% use CDs / 15% use ITunes or other digital formats “As we are developing our Raven Team, we anticipate a great presence in the markets we serve and immediate uptake from listeners and advertisers alike,” notes The Raven’s Board of Directors. “The On-Air talent will be fresh, and focused on building station capacity through local community engagement.” The Raven is a commercial radio station operated by ACES, a non-profit society. The purpose of the station is to support and fund Cultural Enhancement Projects for Youth and Elders for Homalco First Nation. This is a unique slant on business in the Radio Industry and a first for Homalco First Nation. The station is being soft-launched in October so eager listeners can tune in during the first week of the month! It’s been some time since the Island has had a resident country station and The Raven is on track to deliver its NEW Country format with local content highlighting news and spotlighting community events. Under the requirements of CRTC and the specialty license for the station, The Raven is to deliver and feature traditional First Nation’s language and cultural pieces within the current format. Full format and delivery of on-air talent and services will begin later this fall, scheduled to start in early November. On-line streaming services, such as Radio Canada and Radio Player, and an iOS and Android friendly app will be available for use shortly.
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
CREATURES OF
THE NORTHWEST COAST Bud Logan
All Photos Š Bud Logan
On the coast of BC, we have five salmon that return from the sea to lay their eggs in our rivers and lakes. These are the Chinook, Chum, Coho, Pink and Sockeye salmon species. Every fall many of us, myself included, love to head down to our local Island rivers to watch the salmon run. As a bonus, you have a great chance of seeing black bears and other animals feeding along the river banks. The best place to view salmon during their spawning runs is at one the many hatcheries that dot our coast and, to me, the best one is the Conuma River Hatchery.
The Conuma River Hatchery is located at the head of the Tlupana Inlet on the west coast of Vancouver Island about four kilometres upstream of the Conuma River Estuary. It was originally designated as a chum enhancement facility (in 1978), but since then it has evolved into a major Chinook, Chum and Coho Enhancement Facility. The hatchery annually releases about 3.5 million seapen-reared Chinook smolts into five different watersheds and estuaries in the Nootka Sound area. The hatchery also rears Chum and Coho in the Conuma River and Chum in the Tlupana, Canton and Sucwoa rivers. In addition to these watersheds, they also work to enhance both the Gold River and Burma River Chinook runs. They have helped the Tahsis Volunteer Salmon Enhancement Society in the past, and believe that working with these small organizations is an important part of their operations and are quite happy to continue to help. The best times to visit this facility are from September to October, when adult capture and egg-take processes occur, and from March to June when juveniles are reared and released. All visits must be arranged; you can contact them for a tour booking. School tours are a favorite with the kids. I contacted Mike Austin at the hatchery and he arranged a tour for my wife Gina and myself. The operations
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
manager spent almost the whole afternoon showing us
their fish, mostly to black bears but mink and eagles would
around the hatchery. The hatchery has come a long way
play a role in fry loses. They have now enclosed the whole
from their humble beginnings, and it's quite the place
hatchery in high wire fencing and closed the pens in not
now. When we were there, they had pens filled with
only wire fencing but have electrified some of them.
giant Chinook salmon from the Gold River and other
Predation has been mostly curtailed now.
pens with Burma River Chinook. These were big fish that had just been beached seined from these rivers.
After the eggs and milt have been removed from the adult fish, the remains are trucked just down river and
Onced these fish are gathered, they will remove the eggs
left for the predators. The bears will move these fish all
and milt from them, fertilize them and then place them
along the river shores as they feed, and some wind up in
on screens in a large building, full of long shallow gravel
the water where the nutrients are added to the water. We
layered channels. The screens sit on top of the gravel
walked along the river shore and along the newly added
bottom and a flow of water runs over them. The eggs
side channel that has just been built. We could easily see
will hatch into alevins and drop down into the gravel.
the value of this in the lush growth there in the shore
They are about 3 cm long after hatching but they have
plants and trees.
no fins and cannot swim, although they can push themselves for short distances through the water with their tails.
The side channel was constructed in 2008-9 partially to compensate for loss of salmon production in the mainstream Conuma River due to logging inpacts. It was de-
They stay among the gravel to grow. They have an egg
signed for Coho and Chum salmon spawning and to pro-
sac below their bellies that provide all their food. By
duce up to 21,000 Coho smolts and 2.7 million Chum fry
about 6 weeks, the alevins have used up their egg sacs,
annually. Adult Chinook salmon also use the channel to
and have grown fins, and while still small these fins will
access the raceways at Conuma Hatchery.
allow them to swim. At this time they are placed in outside pens.
You can access this side channel by trails located just past the hatchery gate. This is a great place to view wildlife
The hatchery has done a limited marking of fish up until
like bears and mink and its a great place for bird watch-
this year. They plan on mass marking 2.7 million salmon
ing. There is a big sign here that details the history of the
this year. I viewed the facility that has been enhanced for
hatchery. Please be bear aware here as there are lots of
this operation. There was a UV water treatment system
bears this time of year.
being installed during our tour, this will keep the water in prime condition during the marking. Tables with trays are set up for the fry to sit while being mark, marking involes removing the adipose fin off of the hatchery fish. Prior to mass-marking, restrictions imposed threatened to close or greatly curtail historic salmon fisheries throughout the region. In addition to the recreational and cultural values involved, the potential loss of fishing opportunities presented a severe economic threat to fishing families and entire communities, especially in rural areas of Vancouver Island. Once mass-marking is established, fishery managers will be able to mitigate that situation by creating a growing number of "mark-selective fisheries," which require fishers to release any unmarked wild salmon they encounter. These rules protect the wild salmon stocks, while permitting fishers to retain hatchery fish produced for harvest. Predation in the pens have been pretty bad in past years and some years the Hatchery could lose up to 30% of W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
NATUROPATHIC INSPIRATIONS Ingrid Pincott N.D.
Photo © jchizhe / Adobe Stock
Using Nutraceuticals to Complement PRESCRIPTION DRUGS Many Canadians take prescription drugs
100mg of CoQ10 per day (because these folks are often
of some kind but most are not aware of the nutri-
on a statin too!). Diuretics to lower blood pressure also
ents possibly depleted by these drugs. These nutri-
lower magnesium, potassium and calcium.
ents should taken especially if you are on a drug that depletes them; they may also lower the side effects of that drug. Some of the most common drugs taken by Canadians include: statins, proton pump inhibitors, penicillin, selective, ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, thyroid, SSRI’s, opioids, and other anti-depressants.
Thyroid medication may interfere with calcium metabolism so take a good mineral supplement, just not at the same time of day as the dose of thyroid.
SSRIs used to treat depression deplete folic acid as well, and when people take folate in the form of 5
Statin drugs are used to lower cholesterol and pre-
tetrahydrofolate, the SSRIs work better.
vent heart attacks. They are well known to deplete
Opioids should be avoided for pain treatment at all
CoQ10, important in preserving energy supplies of our cells, especially cardiac cells. Statins also lower the good cholesterol HDLs so I recommend taking high
costs so I recommend using curcumin in high dosages such as found in AOR, Thorne or Mediherb brands.
EPA /DHA fish oil (anchovy and sardine oil, or cod
Birth Control Pills (BCP) contain estrogen analogues
liver oil) to increase HDL’s.
and one type of progestin, which is synthetic not bi-
PPIs are used to lower stomach acid and treat heartburn and reflux. They deplete B12, calcium, magnesium and interfere with the gut microbiome. Try daily chewable B12 5mg per day, a combination of calcium and magnesium citrate and 12 billion count probiotic.
Pencillin and other antibiotics upset the gut microbiome so take 12 billion count probiotics at a different time of day than the antibiotic, and take probiotics
oidentical. Nutrients depleted by BCP include: B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, Folic Acid, Vitamin C and E, magnesium, selenium, zinc, tyrosinase and CoQ10. Other side effects include depression, low libido, gut microbiome disruption, leaky gut, lowered thyroid function, higher cortisol levels, altered adrenal gland function, and insulin resistance leading to elevations of blood sugar. (Any female preparing for pregnancy should be taking 1mg of folate prior to and during pregnancy to prevent
long term as part of your Foundations For Health.
birth defects).
ACE inhibitors to control blood pressure deplete zinc
Nutraceuticals may exert a drug sparing effect
important for the health of the immune system, fertility, hair, teeth and nails. Beta blockers are also used for blood pressure and can deplete CoQ10. I recommend
that allows a person to lower the dosages of prescription medications under the supervision of your naturopathic doctor.
Dr. Ingrid Pincott N.D. (Retired) 778-560-4444 or drpincott@drpincott.com. Find an ND near you at www.bcna.ca
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
GROWING UP COASTAL Joseph McLean
The wind was blowing and the waves were very loud. Daddy dressed up Kevin in lots of shirts. Then Kevin jumped, and Daddy swung him up up up and over his head. But Kevin did not have enough clearance. Whack! Daddy’s hat fell to the ground. “Uh oh. We have to try again,” Daddy said. This time Kevin gave a really big jump. Up up up he went, right onto the shoulders! He was glad. The hike went to the edge of Eagle River. The other kids had to go back, but Kevin wanted to cross the river with Daddy. Mommy said they were allowed, so they found some huge logs to cross on. First they played at dropping rocks through holes in the logs. Then Daddy helped Kevin balance. They tiptoed along carefully. Then Kevin dragged Daddy so fast he had to run! The waters were very calm that day, and they saw water striders skimming along the surface. Kevin sat down on the log, peeled off some splinters of wood, and dropped them in. The water striders came over and played with the splinters! They even brought their babies out to play. Daddy & Kevin were most of the way across the log when a text arrived from Mommy. Hot dogs were ready! They hurried back, but on the way Kevin realized he had to build a sand castle, even if it meant losing the good hot dog. So they found a perfect patch of sand and built one. While he was waiting, Daddy drew a circle in the sand with his big toe. Then Kevin decorated it and said, “Please write ‘Daddy and Kevin’s Adventure’ right in the middle,” so Daddy did. When the sign was complete, Kevin said they should try to remember this adventure for all their days. “Will you re-
Photo © Joseph McLean
When Kevin woke up on Sunday, he
member?” he asked. “Yes, I’ll remember it for the rest of my life. Will you?”
was too tired. He was too tired to eat his bleh oatmeal. He
“No, I’ll forget after not too many days. So can you please
was too tired to get off the bleh couch.
write one of your stories about it?”
The rest of the family was getting ready for a beach party,
And Daddy very kindly did, and this is the story you are
but Kevin said, “I’m too tired. I can’t go to the beach for any
reading right now.
reason unless you carry me.” Luckily Daddy felt like carrying Kevin. So they went to the beach.
Then they hurried back to the party, and Kevin ate TWO hot dogs. Now he had enough energy to run around all by
The first thing that happened was a big beach hike.
himself. The end.
Joseph McLean lives in Powell River, spending his days with two young kids, a laid-back cat, and a fantastic wife named Katie. He has repaired a lot of computers; seen a number of mountain tops. Facebook.com/GrowingUpCoastal W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A
I s s u e 2 4 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 2 7
H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
SHIFT HAPPENS
Andrea Wagemaker
Seasonal Affective Disorder Photo © Daria Minaeva / Adobe Stock
As summer fades into autumn, we begin to
difficulty concentrating; feeling hopeless, worthless or
notice the changes in the seasons which are primarily the
guilty; frequent thoughts of death or suicide.
direct result of shorter days and longer nights. For some people, the shift in seasons to the darker part of the year
Studies have shown that Lucia Light No 3 is extremely
has a profound effect on their mood and energy levels.
effective to activate the penial gland and alleviate winter depression in most people. The beneficial effect of light
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a clinical type of
therapy does not derive from the kind of ultraviolet radi-
depression that affects people for half the year during
ation emitted by the sun, but rather from sheer brightness
the darker, colder months when daylight hours are de-
and flickering. As humans, we are beings of light, and all
creased. In northern latitudes, these symptoms usually
of our cells communicate through light (this is just be-
start as early as October and start to subside in March or
ing confirmed now by molecular biologists in the field of
April, returning the afflicted individual to a normal state
bio-photonics). The flickering light of the Lucia N°03 in-
of mood as daylight hours increase.
vites the brain into a higher frequency that increase alpha, theta and gamma waves and ultimately into coherence, a
A central player in the SAD is the pineal (literally “pine
harmonic brain state found in experienced meditators.
cone”) gland, a pea-sized structure located deep in the center of the brain. This gland acts as a sort of light meter
The Lucia N°03 light experience is different for each
for the brain and body, receiving information from the
person, each time they experience it. Lucia N°03 light
eyes and producing the melatonin hormone in response
sessions work with each person's individual system and it
to that information. By producing and sending out high-
has a positive and balancing effect.
er or lower levels of melatonin according to the amount of light the eyes receive, the pineal gland sets and regu-
The wide-spectrum solid and flickering light enters the
lates the brain’s internal clock.
body through the closed eyes, travels into the central brain (where the pineal gland is located) and continues
With the approach of winter and the corresponding in-
through the whole body. Lucia Light N°03 activates the
crease in melatonin levels, we tend to go into “hiberna-
penial gland by sending energetic light waves that clear
tion” type responses, such as eating more food, putting
blocks, bring in light on a cellular level and releases stag-
on weight, and sleeping longer hours. However, when the
nant energy in the most relaxing and natural way. It is
psychological symptoms become too extreme and devel-
important that you don’t brush off that yearly feeling la-
op into severe depression, they can seriously interfere with
beled as the “winter blues’, taking positive steps to elevate
an individual’s day-to-day functioning and overall health.
your mood and motivation organically through Lucia Light will reset the central nervous system and activate
One of the remarkable things about SAD is that women have it more than men by a ratio of about four to one. Signs and symptoms of SAD may include: Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day; losing interest
your pineal gland.
Interested in having a session with the Lucia No. 3? Visit www.ShiftHypnotherapy.ca | 250-338-3401
in activities you once enjoyed; having low energy; having
Andrea Wagemaker is a Licensed Clinical
problems with sleeping; experiencing changes in your
Hypnotherapist and Certified Life Coach.
appetite or weight; feeling sluggish or agitated; having
Call now for your inner journey visit.
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S Photo © Bud Logan
EAT LOCAL
Lobster Mushrooms Bud Logan
It's Mushroom Season! One of my favourite
or the Lactarius genus. Fortunately, these mushrooms
times of the year. I love picking them for the table
are edible, and they are often enjoyed on their own. As
and I enjoy going out to photograph them. They are
the fungus encloses the host mushroom, it also develops
such wonders to behold. On Vancouver Island we have
small white dots which are likened to pimples, turning
such a variety of these beautiful little wonders that you
the lobster mushroom somewhat coarse to the touch. If
find yourself running from one to the next. There are
the mushroom is not harvested, the fungus will contort
many that are edible, but many can do harm or even
the host into a bizarre shape which can make it almost
kill. Last year a young boy died whose parents picked a
unrecognizable.
death cap mushroom thinking it was an edible one, and unfortunately the child ate it. Please get a good reference book for identification—it could save your life. I always suggest that you learn one edible mushroom at a time. The lobster mushroom is one of the best in my eyes, but it isn’t actually a true mushroom. It is a type of fungus (parasitic ascomycete) which colonizes other mushrooms. When the fungus is left undisturbed, it will completely cover its host with a bright reddish to orange sheath which looks like a cooked lobster. As a result, people refer collectively to the host and the fungus as the lobster mushroom. Lobster mushrooms can be quite tasty, as a result of the unique combination of the host’s flavor and that of the colonizing fungus, and they are eaten in many parts of the world. Try to find new small samples as the bigger ones can become wormy. The colonizing fungus appears to be quite choosy. It
The taste of a lobster mushroom is said to resemble that of an actual lobster. Lobster mushrooms can be used in a range of dishes, as they take well to both baking and frying. They are also great by themselves, fried in a little bit of butter. These red mushrooms are fairly easy to identify, but amateur mycologists should use some caution. Mushroom guides do not advise picking and eating a lobster mushroom unless you can identify the host since the fungus could potentially colonize a poisonous mushroom. Identifying the host can be very challenging. If you don’t feel up to harvesting lobster mushrooms on your own, some markets and grocers carry them during mushroom season. Look for firm specimens with no soft spots, slime, or obvious dark discoloration. You can store the mushrooms in a paper bag in the fridge for up to a week before using. You can also purchase dried lobster mushrooms which can be re-hydrated for cooking.
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