September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 1
ISSUE 2.9 | SEPTEMBER 2011
the Education issue
Inside: Continuing Education Pages 4-6 Momentum Learning enriches Quesnel Page 7 Touring the festival circuit Page 18
PAGE 2 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
Kurt Vonnegut is the patron saint of The Stew Magazine.
The best books you’re not allowed to read
Bobbie-Jo Macnair was kind enough to come and hang out with us for a bit outside the North Campus of Thompson Rivers University so we could snap some pictures of her studying. Or just pretending to study, actually. But thanks to the miracles and trickeries of photography, it looks like the real thing, doesn’t it? By the time this issue is in your hands, the universtity’s doors will be open again its halls will be filled with the face of students eager to fill their minds with knowledge. It’s that endless pursuit of knowledge that we honour this month in our Education Issue. We hope you enjoy.
Fahrenheit 451: And while we’re busy learning about literature, let’s also learn about irony, in what might be
this book does use the N-word (not ‘Nagger’) a few times, but you know what they say about those who forget the past, right? How about we leave this book right where it is so that we can all remember our embarrassing history and try to make sure that nothing like it ever happens again. Also, seriously, it’s Mark Twain — lay off.
SILENCED VOICES It’s hard to believe that Mark Twain, the father of a number of literary classics, has been frequently yanked from school libraries. But it’s true. the perfect example — a book about the dangers of censorship being, um, well, censored. Admittedly the groups looking to ban the book usually just take task with the profanity, anti-religious message, or the scenes that depict smoking or drinking. Catcher in the Rye: It’s somewhat understandable that parent groups might want to keep this chronicle of youth rebellion out of the hands of the already rebellious youth,
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but at the end of the day, kids are going to do what kids are going to do, and a book isn’t going to turn them into anything that wasn’t already there anyway. Besides, there are plenty of kids who could be helped by just knowing that Holden Caulfield felt exactly like they did. Adventures of Huckleberry Finn: Yes, we know, it’s kind of embarrassing how African Americans have been historically treated, and yes,
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On the Cover:
One of the great things about education is that it’s about taking a mind and filling it with new, exciting ideas. One of the difficult things about education is in deciding exactly what ideas those should be. See, we don’t all agree on what constitutes a good idea. Or sometimes we agree that an idea might be good, but maybe not entirely appropriate. Or maybe we think it’s good and appropriate, but could they do it without so much profanity? This is why we have banned books — because someone, somewhere, and likely someone in a position of authority, feels kind of awkward about the content of a particular piece of literature. Unfortunately, many of the books that are frequently challenged or removed outright from school libraries and curriculum are exactly the sort of classics of literature that we should be fighting to preserve. And this is why we have Banned Books Week. Banned Books week, which runs this year from September 24 to October 1, celebrates those fine, famous books that were challenged or banned, and encourages you to read as many of them as you can get your hands on. And in honour of education, here in our Education Issue, we’re going to tell you some of our favourites.
Slaughterhouse Five: Kurt Vonnegut is one of the greatest writers of the 20th century, and Slaughterhouse Five is one of his greatest novels. While on the surface it appears to be a science fiction story, thanks to its time travelling main character, it’s really a book about the horrors of sending young men off to war (it’s subtitle is The Children’s Crusade: A Duty-Dance With Death). Yes, it has sex and violence and profanity and misogyny, but Vonnegut was one of the most humane writers of his era and there is an important underlying kindness to his message. Anne Frank: Diary of a Young Girl: Yes, Anne Frank’s diary has been challenged, but no, it’s probably not the version you’re thinking of. This is the Definitive Edition, first published in 1991, which contains pages that were removed from earlier editions, depicting, in part, a young girl’s sexual awakening. Perhaps it’s best that we remember that before she became a symbol, the young Ms. Frank was a human being.
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Gift Certificates: The ultimate school accessory.
September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 3
Nutrition Facts Serving Size: 24 pgs Servings Per Container 1 Amount Per Serving
Calories 0 % Daily Value* Smokies & Sausage We’ve spent a good chunk of this month living on camp food. And it was awesome. Baked Beans Seriously, a lot of camp food. Beer Beer’s considered camp food to, isn’t it? We certainly couldn’t imagine camping without it.
Continuing Education
Ingredients (or things that helped us get through the last month): Finally getting a break in the weather long enough that we can enjoy some outdoors time before the end of summer; actually spending that time outdoors; an awesome loaner bike from Red Shreds (thanks Mark!) to ride the Tour de Cariboo; musical performances in outdoor settings; our new massive tent (thanks mom and dad); watching people who can do amazing things with hoola-hoops; trying to do amazing things with hula hoops and failing (but having fun anyway); discovering we have a massive Saskatoon berry bush; and a crab apple tree; plotting out a canning weekend; hanging out at the Oliver Street Market on Saturdays; new friends; old friends; driving five hours to spend a weekend chilling at an almostbrand-new music festival (we’re looking at you Music On The Mountain); home brew beer; watching the baby learn to do new things like roll over; and almost standing up on her own (while holding on to things, like her seat, or the table, or mommy’s hair); and almost crawling, if she could just figure out what to do with her legs; aeriously, that little munchkin is doing something new almost every day; falling asleep playing my DSi (Juli); graciously picking up the DSi and putting it away so no-one pokes out an eye in the middle of the night (Todd); realizing that it is almost a year since we started this crazy endeavor.
Pages 4-6
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PAGE 4 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
Todd is still, technically, working on his first career. He wonders if that means he’s going to cram six more into the next few years, or if he’ll just be the exception to the rule.
Continuing education in a small town BY JULI HARLAND THE STEW MAGAZINE
It’s been said that the average North American changes their career seven times during their lifetime these days. That’s seven fresh starts and seven skill sets to learn. How does a person prepare for such a varied future? According to Thompson Rivers University (North Campus) Director, Dr. Ray Sanders, the key to a rich life is education. And anyone can do it. Recent BC Census reports show that only 78.7% of the Cariboo Regional District population under 65 have some sort of certificate, diploma, or degree. Only 14% of them have gone to university; 17% have a college certificate or diploma; and 15% walked away with a trades certificate or diploma. Those are small numbers compared to the rest of BC, where well over 85% of youth finish, at the very least, high school, and university enrollment is on the rise. And then, of course, because of a good saturation of youth with degrees coming from cities in BC, the criteria for employment is also rising, as is the gap between wages of those with an education and those without. Can heading to post-secondary schooling really make that big of a difference, you ask? In BC the 2006 census showed that young workers aged 25 to 34 with less than a bachelor’s degree had an average income of $24,604. The same demographic with a bachelor’s degree made an average of $30,689. With a post-bachelor degree, it rose to $32,365, and for British Columbians with a master’s degree, median income was $46,138. So are we doomed, in the Cariboo, to a life of crappy wages and less-than-satisfying work? The short answer is no. We have a gem of a school in the middle of the Cariboo with a stellar staff, world-renowned teachers (just ask Chris Montoya about his geo-dome or Rob Higgins about ants) and a willingness to reach students where they are at, rather than make them fit into a mould. And you don’t have to uproot anything to get there. “We’re taking people wherever they are and are trying to help them increase their life skills,” says Dr. Sanders. “We do a lot of university preparation; that’s in high, high demand. We get people up to a level where they can enter into university. And people don’t feel bad about where they are, you just come in and you do it. “Life is about right here. It’s not about what happened yesterday. It’s about what can you do right now to move forward.” And with the changes that have been taking place in not only our region, but around the globe, if you’re not moving forward, you may just end up falling behind. Not that chasing continuing education is easy. It is expensive. The work-load can be daunting. You need a great high school record to get in. At least that’s how it used to be. These days the times are changing, even within the university classroom. “We don’t want to be the old traditional university where ‘if you build it they will come’; that doesn’t work. I don’t think it ever worked. We want to offer courses and programs at a time and a format the people want. We want to be demand-oriented,” Dr. Sanders explains.
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Williams Lake Studio Theatre Society is holding open auditions for the first play of the 2011 / 2012 season
OFFICE HOURS By Norm Foster Directed by Mary-Jo Hilyer and Micheal September 8 at 7:00 pm& September 11 at 3:00 pm Adults of all ages, shapes, and sizes are encouraged to come out and play! The play runs from Nov. 16-26. Interested in joining the theatre and don’t want to be on stage? We have plenty of backstage positions available as well.
For more info please contact Mary-Jo at 250-305-4801 or check Williams Lake our Facebook page! STUDIO THEATRE Society
September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 5
Remember, you don’t go to university just to hook up with hotties of the opposite sex. That’s something you do on your spare time, after class.
His vision for TRU North is to create an environment which is affordable, global in thinking, innovative, inviting, comfortable and accessible to everyone. Big dreams? The school is already making changes to make the vision a reality. Part of that, says Dr. Sanders, is an attitude of change. “We have to listen to the community,” he says. “You can’t be demand-oriented and not know what the demand is. I tell my staff here, ‘The last year has been a year of change, and that’s going to be the norm from now on.’ “Think about it. What is your definition of learning — it’s change. You’re changing either an attitude, or a behaviour, or knowledge. So you can do something you couldn’t do before, or you know something, or you have a different attitude. So if we’re about change we should be about change ourselves. You can’t change others without changing yourself. I think we’ll get there.” So who are all these changes for? Everyone, it seems. TRU is reaching out to three main demographics: traditional high school graduates, destination students (Dr. Sanders hinted that there may be a large influx of international students in the new year), and adult learners. And each have their own sets of needs as well as benefits. Currently TRU North sees about 15% of the graduates from the local schools, though that number is growing. These students are the backbone of every university and encourage the building of degree programs as well as community-centered trades programs (which TRU is well known for, especially in the partnerships between the school and the surrounding mines and mills).
Here’s John and Jane. Summer is coming to an end and John is busy taking down the summer decorations and getting ready for the fall, all while maintaining the yard in the Cariboo’s long season this year. Inside, Jane is prepping the kids for school. Taking out the cooler wardrobe, getting books and bags out and ready, and prepping the pantry for school lunches. Good thing they have plenty of storage, both inside and out, to hold all their seasonal must-haves. Canadian Tire: Sheds, shelves, pantries, bins, storage boxes, and organizers...everything that John and Jane need.
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PAGE 6 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
Remember, it’s never too late to experience higher education. In fact, older students might get more out of university because they’re not partying all the time.
International students, says Dr. Sanders, create an opportunity to globalize the curriculum and build niche programs to encourage TRU as a destination campus, and then there are the adult learners which enrich the community through specialized classes, night classes, and community studies. “All of the three groups that we’re targeting have their unique needs,” Dr. Sanders adds. “The traditional high school students have a whole unique set of needs that they have. Well, what are you doing about that? We’re looking at it and we’re working on it. “Destination students have a whole new set of student service needs. Well, what are you doing about it? We’re working on it. We’re making agreements with places to have housing and so forth. “The third group, those adult students, they have their own different set of needs. They need their courses after hours, maybe
on weekends, they need child care...we’re working on all those things. People can get their degree right here in the Cariboo, you can save $8,000 a year in living expenses. That’s your biggest expense. And then we have small enough classes where people can be successful.” And that, dear Cariboo readers, is good news. Over the past few years TRU North has been stuck with a stigma of being mainly a ‘trades school’, which, admittedly, is a vital part of the Cariboo lifestyle. But though the demand for trades is still quite high in the region, and there is a definite demand for job training, and upgrade training, and so forth, due to the region being more ‘natural resource’ based as an economy, the trends are starting to change. Drastically. The economy is moving and changing and the needs of the community are moving along with it. And TRU North has been notic-
ing these changes, and true to the school’s new attitude of change, has been making moves to accommodate the new needs of the community. “We have the first two years of university here,” says Dr. Sanders. “We have registered nursing, we also have practical nursing, which is only eight months. We have trades programs, we also have university programs. We’re looking, this year, putting together a process whereby we’ll have some complete four year degrees here. We’re looking at a process where we will use blended learning and even offer master’s degrees here. “Looking at trends, that’s the new model [blended learning]. We do have online but on-line has a high failure rate, but blended is where we’re going. “We’re experimenting with this right now,” he says of a combination of self-motivated and face-to-face learning. “The research on this shows this it’s a more effective way
of learning than either faceto-face or on-line. I guess because it meets so many learning styles, and it really helps people facilitate that learning no matter where they are. I really like that. Giving options.” Because heading to university just down the road, rather than heading out immediately to a larger school in the city, will not only be more cost effective, it will help keep students on track. Dr. Sanders explains: “People did a study a couple of years ago that the kids that went to UBC from Columneetza in Williams Lake, 60% of those returned home the first year — 60%. Not that they weren’t smart kids, they are smart enough, it is just such a huge change going from here to a university of 40,000. The research is clear that if they can go, not just here in Williams Lake, but anywhere, that if they can go to their local home town university or college, they are more likely to persist.”
It almost makes a person want to head down to the campus and enroll. Well, why not? With perks like free tutoring, a communitycentered gathering place for people of all walks to center their thoughts and wellbeing, a diverse curriculum, and even a growing cache of artistic-minded continuing studies such as oil painting, photography, and even writing, there is really no reason to not jump in and get a little education in your life. And all that will come in handy when you go to make one of those seven career changes in your lifetime. Because education isn’t just about stuffing knowledge in your head — it’s about learning how to learn. How to embrace change. How to create opportunity for growth in yourself and your surroundings. And if heading to school for a while can do that, then it has done its job, and you may just be hooked on learning for life.
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Books: at both doors Boss of Namko Drive Breaking Smith’s Quarterhorse Chilcotin and Beyond This will be a special evening honouring In the Navel of the Moon Old Enough To Know Better the man and his work. Sister Balonika Two segments of the Smith and Other Events CBC TV “Cariboo Country” series will be shown. Tell Me A Good Lie TV Series: Cariboo Country (writer) Member of Parliament for the riding of Coast Chilcotin from 1968-1972
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September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 7
While interviewing Kimberly, we learned about Montessori education, an educational approach more driven by the student. We had never heard of this before. Even just working on the Education Issue caused us to learn new things!
Momentum Learning looking to enrich your children BY TODD SULLIVAN THE STEW MAGAZINE
It’s been a bit of a winding road that brought Kimberly Simpson to open Momentum Learning Centre in Quesnel, but it’s a road that arrives very close to where it originally started from — with a young girl asking herself what she wants to be when she grows up.. “I remember thinking, well, I wanted to be a teacher,” she explains, “because I loved to help people, and I wanted to work with kids one on one.” But working one-on-one isn’t the sort of thing that modern classrooms are designed to accomodate, so after spending some time in the school district, Simpson decided to make a shift towards tutoring work, spending a fair amount of her time working with homeschooled students. It was these students that eventually pushed her towards developing the
the
Kids can do anything, but depending on their school and what’s going on in their brains, sometimes they just need help sorting that. So it’s for children needing assistance or enrichment in their daily learning activities.” – KIMBERLY SIMPSON
MOMENTUM LEARNING
learning center. “Between my students and a few of the other homeschooling families I had talked to, they said, ‘Why don’t you set up some sort of center, like a learning center or a small school,’ and that’s how the idea started.” What the idea became was Momentum Learning Centre, which opened its doors last month.
“It’s basically kindergarten to grade 12. Lately I’ve been working with a lot of high school students, and this summer I have a program that’s called Creatures of Curiosity, and that’s for five to seven year-olds. But, she says, as the centre is so new, it’s time that will tell what sorts of students she’ll be working with. “I think probably the need will be for mid-high
school and the lower, like kindergarten, one, two, but I’m open to anything. As long as we get to sit down and discuss what they need, then I’ll see.” It’s the needs of the child that Simpson wants to put first. “If you or your child notices a lack of inspiration and eagerness to learn, or is just struggling through a certain area, then Momentum Learning Centre is the place to start!. Kids can do anything, but depending on their school and what’s going on in their brains, sometimes they just need help sorting that. So it’s for children needing assistance or enrichment in their daily learning activities. “For me enrichment means something above and beyond what‘s going on in their daily school life.” Which, she says, is something kids these days aren’t getting as much of. “There isn’t often that option. Having been a classroom teacher, you can only do so
much with the time you have. “There’s different demands now than there was 15 years ago.” Along with being a tutoring and enrichment centre, Simpson would like Momentum to become a central point for educational information in the region, able to direct parents to other resources that might help their children better than what her own programs can. But for now, these are plans that Simpson hopes will come from success and then growth. “Obviously I’d love it if we had a big center, and I’d love to have different groups coming... but I’ve got to start somewhere.” “It’s in the old college, the new child development center, it in that building on the main floor. It’s a smaller space for now,” she says, “but it’s got all the basics.” You can contact Kimberly Simpson by email at momentumlearningcentre@gmail.com or by phone at 250-983-6004.
The Stew Magazine and the Oliver Street Market present on Saturday, September 24, 2011 From 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Herb Gardener Park
Harvest FEstivaL of Awesome We’ve got all the regular Saturday vendors that you’ve come to know and love
Plus! Brought to you by THE OLIVER STREET MARKET
and
Watch as individual groups battle downtown businesses for the title of Stew Champion 2011! Prizes donated by many downtown businesses and groups. Check our Facebook page for ongoing updates on what’s in store! All registrations must be complete by Friday, September 16, 2011.
Hands-on artist-centered workshops Come witness Williams Lake Studio Theatre put together a ‘Play In A Day’ Dance to the great tunes of Oren Barter, Amber Bowen, Catfish and Cariboo Muddy Waters, and Soupbone!
MAGAZINE
with help from The WLCBIA
Join our dance party from 8pm to 2am at Beeotcheese, featuring phat beats from Jordan Holmes and a cash bar — only $10 at the door, proceeds to the Oliver Street Market.
PAGE 8 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
Your mind is a terrible thing to waste BY TODD SULLIVAN THE STEW MAGAZINE
Education can mean a lot of different things. For example, as this is our September issue, it would be easy to think that our plan for ‘The Education Issue’ was to do a traditional ‘Back -To-School’ kind of thing. That even seemed to be the response internally when the idea was first pitched. I can assure you that isn’t the case. One thing that we like to ensure here at The Stew is that even when tackling a tradtional idea, we try to tackle it untraditionally.
There was an ad campaign you might remember from a few years back for the United Negro College Fund that used the slogan, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.” I believe this was very true then, and remains very true today. I believe, in fact, that this is true regardless of your colour, regardless of your socioeconomic status, regardless of what language you speak or what side of the tracks you grew up on. It doesn’t matter who you are, your mind is a terrible thing to waste. I used to joke around with friends about the saying, “You learn some-
thing new every day.” I liked to take it a step further, theorizing that if you didn’t learn something new on a particular day, then that day was a waste, and you might as well be dead if you’re not going to learn anything anyway. Again, this is not something I believe, at least not to that extent, but I do believe that learning should be an ongoing process. Yes, when we’re at school, learning is our primary occupation, it’s how we spend the majority of our day. Learning is our job. And then we graduate and we move on with
our lives and we put the learning behind us. But it doesn’t have to be like that. In fact, it shouldn’t be like that. Whether you’re five or 35 or 65 years old, you need to keep your brain active. You need to keep learning. It doesn’t always have to be in the obvious ways. Sure you could go out and sign up for a bunch of evening courses at the University, or take some programs at those online schools, those are options. But you could just as easily head to the local libary and pick up a book on a subject you’ve always wanted to know
about. Watch a documentary. Take a walk down a street you’ve never been down before. Buy a canvas and some acrylics and paint a picture. Learn a new language. Education can happen anywhere, and it can happen almost without our realizing. When it’s something that enriching, that can be done so easily, there’s really no reason why you shouldn’t be learning at least one new thing every day. Your mind is an amazing and beautiful thing. Don’t waste it. That would be terrible. todd@thestew.ca
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It’s all about what you feed to your brain BY JULI HARLAND THE STEW MAGAZINE
Education is not just for the young. And it isn’t simply for the straight ‘A’ students. Learning happens all the time — it’s simply a matter of what you want to feed your brain. When we choose to sit at home and watch Jerry Springer all day long, we learn that mid-west Americans are funny and people are inherently kind of sick and perverse. When we choose to spend all our waking moments working ourselves to death in a job we despise we learn that life is hard and unfulfilling. When we choose to join a new club with people of like minds we learn that we are not alone. When we pick up a
pen and paper and write a journal we learn to get in touch with our emotional selves. When we take a class for something new we learn not only about the given subject, but we learn how to keep learning. And we all do it. Every day. We feed our brain. Just as the saying goes, ‘you are what you eat,’ it is equally true that we are a product of our learning. This isn’t a free pass to say that we can be jerks because we learned to be that way from our parents, it isn’t a chance to lay blame or make excuses, because at some point in our lives we need to stand up and take responsibility for what we surround ourselves with — where we take our lessons from.
What I mean is that we all have the choice every day to either learn things that will enhance or stunt our growth. And really, who doesn’t want to be better all the time? So how do we learn in a positive way? It looks different for each of us. What is it that you want from life? How can you get there? Break it down. Make it manageable. I would like to learn how to live more actively as well as how to be increasingly self-sustaining. But rather than sign up for Ironman (which takes loads of training and dedication — just ask our columnist Carol Davidson, who just finished her first Ironman competition), for me, I need to start smaller. I got a bike and signed
The Stew Crew up to relay the Tour de Cariboo. Not to personally ride the whole thing, but to go as far as I can and share the load with the rest of my team in a positive and encouraging environment. And as it gets colder outside I am exploring other options, such as roller derby, because I know I need to be involved in something social to keep myself motivated. To teach me how to keep going. And I am trying to glean information about gardening and urban farming from the many fantastic market farmers of our area. Not to turn our property into a massive market garden, but so that I can try my hand at a little plot and maybe keep a chicken or two.
After that, who knows? I’d also like to take some more schooling. I’d like to finish my counselling diploma, because human relations are still of great interest to me. And it keeps my mind far more active than the endless stream of ‘Who’s my baby’s daddy?’ on Maury. It’s all about choosing what to feed my brain. It can be as simple as learning how to cook or as complex as getting your PHD. Or as personal as learning how to see the positive side of things or how to overcome loss. It all starts with simple steps. The important part is to take the first steps to start your journey and be open to the worlds it could open up for you. Happy learning! juli@thestew.ca
September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 9
Question of the Month
Organic farmers in the round session featured at Artswells
Send your answers to letters@thestew.ca
Todd Sullivan todd@thestew.ca publisher / editor-in-chief “Follow your dreams. But follow them cautiously. Because, believe it or not, not every dream should be followed, and it’s not always obvious until it’s too late which ones are best left as dreams.”
BY SAGE BIRCHWATER The first ever Organic Farmers in the Round workshop at the ‘ArtsWells Festival of All Things Art’ drew more than two dozen participants from a great swath of the province. There were people from Kamloops, Lillooet, Clinton, Knife Creek, 144 Mile, Williams Lake, Mackin Creek, Macalister, Alexis Creek, McBride, Fort Fraser, Smithers and Bella Coola. Some were serious full-time growers like Mackin Creek Farm’s Rob Borsato and Cathy Allen, or Road’s End Farm’s Chris Robinson. Others were window box gardeners or had small home garden plots. It didn’t matter. The thing everyone had in common was the desire to see the successful production of good quality, local food. The question of whether or not to get organic certification was discussed. Despite the organic movement being embraced and watered down by big corporations, Rob and Cathy said they were glad to be certified. “It’s expensive; about $1,500 a year,” Rob said. “The key to successful organic farming is to keep really good records.” Mike and Stephanie Bird, who have been cultivating their river front property organically on the west side of the Fraser River opposite Macalister for five years, want to get certified once they can afford it. “As busy as you are, keep good records,” Mike affirmed. “It helps you keep track of what you are doing.” While not strictly organic, Clint and Karen Thompson, have adopted more natural ways of ranching. They practice intensive grazing on their San Jose Cattle Company ranch at 144 Mile, and do not cut hay. Last spring they sold all their hay-making equipment, and now purchase all the hay they need and “bale-graze” their animals in winter. This provides nutrients to the soil so they don’t have to fertilize. “Good records give you a blueprint to work from,” Karen said. “You can google a template for garden recordkeeping.” After taking a course in alternative ranching methods, the Thompsons are starting to see ranching in a different way. “One of the biggest paradigms is that farming is a business, and to stay in business you have to be profitable,” Clint told the group. One person commented that the agriculture industry is hard on families because of the hard work and long hours during the growing season. “There are always so many variables it
E
AZIN G A M
What is the most important lesson you ever learned?
Juli Harland juli@thestew.ca sales manager / executive editor “The most important lesson I’ve ever learned is that change is the only true constant in life. Learn to embrace it and be the author of your own adventures.”
Angela Shephard angela@thestew.ca fine frugality (crafters beat) “The most important lesson I learned was in high school, and that was that people don't really want to hear how you are, even if they ask you. They're just making small talk!”
FARMERS GATHER Rob Borsato, Cathy Allen, Stephanie Bird, Mike Bird, and Chris and Ray Hornby participate in the workshop. keeps you humble,” Borsato stated. Chris Robinson of Road’s End Farm on Knife Creek south of 150 Mile House agreed. “During the summer you put in long days, then you have to develop winter hobbies.” Borsato shared an information treasure that has helped him a lot over the years. “The book, Nature and Properties of Soil by Nyle C. Brady is my bible,” he said. On the subject of marketing, the local growers listed three methods that work well for them, and one that does not. Attending the weekly farmers market in either Williams Lake or Quesnel, and providing box-a-week produce for customers, allows the growers to organize their schedule. Also having the local growers’ co-op in Williams Lake gives the producers an added marketing outlet. Farmgate sales in the back country of the Cariboo doesn’t really work because it causes unscheduled interuptions for too little gain. Corine Singfield, coordinator of the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) project in Bella Coola, said she has a market garden on Walker Island west of Hagensborg, and coordinates the box-a-week program for four growers in the valley and over 40 box-a-week members. She said some of their primary customers are the big lodges in the area. “A recent 25 per cent hike in freight costs has made the local food program much more affordable,” she said. Fellow Bella Coola Valley grower, Dave Brown, has 28 acres of orchards, pasture and forest in Hagensborg, where he is currently raising pigs. He says he got inspired after hearing Clint Thompson’s story at the ArtsWells session about the guy who always complained how hard it was to cut his
wood with a dull saw, but insisted he didn’t have time to sharpen it because he had so much wood to cut. Brown says when he got home from ArtsWells he did a big clean up of his property. He also took to heart the advice on keeping good records. “It’s more critical than most people realize. The business aspect of farming is often overlooked. Otherwise you are steering your ship blind. You need to know where you are at all times.” The Bella Coola Shared Agricultural Project (CSA) has rotated 10 or 12 interns this year, Brown says. Through the CSA program, interns come to volunteer on farms for a period of a month or more. “Currently there are five interns here now,” he says. Singfield told the other growers that a primary goal of her organization is to revitalize agriculture in the Bella Coola Valley and find a market for their products. “Our goal is to make local produce the easy choice,” she said. Chris and Ray Hornby gave an update on the Potato House Sustainability Project in Williams Lake. Chris Hornby expressed appreciation to Chris Robinson of Road’s End Farm for rototilling the property. “Thanks to the Williams Lake Employment Services program we currently have volunteers fixing up the Potato House property for the month of August,” Hornby said. “Much of the garden has been planted and cleanup activities are underway.” She said a sign on the side of the Potato House puts out a plea from the workers on the house to give them a job. The sign reads: “Community Work Based Program participants need work. Please hire us! Stop by: we are open to job offers.” The article originally appeared at welcometowilliamslake.ca
Jamie Horsely tonesoup@thestew.ca tone soup (music beat) “There is no separateness. There is no duality. The entire universe and all that is in it and all that it is made up of is one and the same. There is no good and no evil. Only cause and effect. What you cause will affect you. Some call it Karma. The Golden Rule is the only rule you will ever need in your life.”
Carol Davidson stir@thestew.ca stir (health beat) “The most recent important lesson, learned at Ironman Canada, was that you can't judge an athlete just by looking at them. It's how much heart they have that truly defines them, whether they win the day or finish after the race has officially ended.”
Torrey Owen torrey@thestew.ca vancouver seen (city beat)
Natasha Stukl hairdooz@telus.net beautydooz (health & beauty beat) “My most important lesson I've ever learned is to have patience and love. I think everything in life is based on and around love especially.”
Michelle Daymond candoitconsulting150@gmail.com Eating Local (food beat) “Follow your heart, even when (and usually especially if) it’s not the easiest way.”
Michael Jones jjonesmii@yahoo.com One Seoul Searching (overseas beat) “The most important lesson I have ever learned is that I am powerful and powerless at the same time. I love paradox.”
Additional Contributors: Sage Birchwater
THE STEW Magazine is an independently owned and operated monthly arts and lifestyle magazine published in the Cariboo Chilcotin. All information contained in this magazine is correct, to our best knowledge, as of press time. Opinions expressed by correspondents and contributors are not necessarily those of THE STEW or its employees. We reserve the right to edit letters to the editor for grammar, punctuation, content, or length. All letters must be signed by the author. THE STEW Magazine accepts no responsibility for correctness beyond the amount paid for that portion of advertising space occupied by the incorrect item. We reserve the right to refuse any advertising or editorials submission which we believe to be inconsistent with the philosophy of this publication. The contents of this publication are copyright The Stew Magazine 2011.
PAGE 10 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
Leaving your children to fend for themselves at your local mega-store is not considered ‘Daycare’.
Choosing a daycare that best meets your needs BY DAWN WALL WOMEN’S CONTACT SOCIETY Summer may have taken its time arriving, but fall seems set on getting here right on schedule. There is change in the air in the mornings, the trees are already starting to sport their autumn colours. September is a time for making changes in our own lives too, maybe starting a new job, maybe going back to school yourself. With these changes in parent schedules, the needs for child care change as well. Whether you are looking for a new centre that better fits your new needs or looking for child care for the first time, choosing the right daycare for you and your child is not something that you want to do in a hurry. Choosing a daycare is an important decision that takes time. The best daycare mimics a good family home with loving caregivers that are consistently there, a place with comfy areas
for children to relax and play, with lots of love and laughter. Attempting to find this may seem overwhelming, but with a few guiding steps to follow and questions to ask, you will be able to make the right choice for your child. Once you know you are going to require some childcare, the first step is to find a list of the daycare centres in your community. A great place to start is the Childcare Resource and Referral Centre (CCRR). They can explain the difference between various types of daycare (licensed group, licensed family, license-notrequired). They can also supply a list of childcare providers in your area. Once you have your list, the nest step is to ask yourself, what are the important things (ingredients) that you want the daycare to have? This is a very personal list; no two will be the same. This could include questions like: How are children’s behaviors handled
at the centre? What ratio do you want between adults and children? Do you want a lot of children or just a few at the daycare? Even though the adult / child ratio is the same, the dynamics of 25 children and 5 adults is very different than 10 children and 2 adults. Which one would your child enjoy the most? Now start phoning centres to find answers to your questions. Not sure exactly how to get the answers you are looking for? Here are a few questions you might ask: What are the hours of operation? The fees? What are the staff ’s qualifications (special training, first aid, criminal record check)? What is their philosophy regarding child care, behavior guidance, the importance of play in child development? How many children are enrolled? How many staff members are there? Make note of your initial response to the conversation — was it good or bad, and why or what made you feel this
n o s l e N t t Sco
way? Cross off the centres that you don’t have a good feeling about. Of the centres remaining, call the first couple and make an appointment for a visit and interview. When you are at the centres, look around. Is it a clean, warm, safe environment where you think your child will have fun? A good centre will be clean throughout. Don’t forget to check that the bathroom, kitchen, and changing station are all clean, well lit and ventilated. There should be a cleaning policy in place, emergency plans with first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and child proof storage areas. Is the staff / child ratio what they said it would be on the phone? Is the staff ’s training, etc., posted where it can be seen? If not, ask to see it. Get a copy of the daily schedule. There should be a balance of activities (playtime, quiet time, individual activities, mealtime, snack time, and group activities). One activity
that should not be included is a TV or video time. Take notes so you remember the answers later. Again, make a note of your initial response to the centre. Trust your instincts Before you leave, ask for some references, parents who have or have had their children enrolled in the daycare. Phone these references and ask about their experiences. If they are not happy, find out why. From these visits, choose the one you feel fits your needs the best and make an appointment for your child to visit. Watch how he / she acts and interacts with the other children, staff, and the environment. Does the staff interact enthusiastically with all the children and make an effort to include your child? Is your child comfortable? Now you are finally ready to enroll in the centre of your choice, knowing that you have done all the groundwork to make the best choice possible.
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“IT’S TIME FOR A POSITIVE CHANGE WITH A MAJOR FOCUS ON JOBS, JOBS AND MORE JOBS.” ~ Scott Nelson scott@williamslake.net
September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 11
Play Your guide to where to go and what to do for the month of September ADRIAN HARLAND PHOTO
PARK PERFORMANCE ď ľ Kamloops musician (and former Williams Lake-er) Paul Filek took to the Gwen Ringwood Stage in Boitanio Park for his Performances in the Park show last month.
PAGE 12 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
After a two season hiatus, Todd and Juli are drawing straws to see who gets to be involved in which Williams Lake Studio Theatre production this year, and who gets to stay home with baby.
September 1 - 9, Williams Lake (continued from August): The BIA and Stationhouse Gallery is hosting is annual Art Walk and Sale - Art walk maps will be distributed across the Cariboo during this week with draws for prizes at every location - including a diamond ring! Contact the WLCBIA for more information. September 1 - 10, 100 Mile House: The Cariboo Artist Guild’s 31st Fine Art Show and Sale will take place at Parkside Art Gallery from July 22nd to Sept 10th. September 1 - 9, Williams Lake: Scotiabank is holding a book sale that will be going until Sept 9/11. All proceeds
are going to the Williams Lake & District SPCA. Books can be dropped off at Scotiabank or at the shelter. Come on out and support a good cause and pick up a few cheap books! September 2 - 30, Williams Lake: The Station House Gallery is hosting “Into the Landscape” by Marie Nagel and the Plein Air paintings by this Victoria artist, formerly of Wells. September 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, Williams Lake: The Farmers Market in Boitanio Park starts at 9:00am with lots of local vendors - lunch available September 3, 10, and 17,
Williams Lake: The Oliver Street Market provides a space for fresh market vegetables, meats, crafts and music. Come for the veggies - stay for the atmosphere. September 3, 10, 17 and 24, Quesnel: Quesnel Farmer’s Market at the Helen Dixon Grounds. For the finest in fresh, locally grown produce and locally made artisan creations, the Quesnel Farmers’ Market is the place to be. September 6, Williams Lake: The first Annual General Meeting of the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society will be held at 7:00 pm in the Small Studio of the Central Cariboo Arts Centre. September 7, 14, 21 and 28, Williams Lake: The GAD-Z-Ukes ukulele group meets every Wednesday from 10:00am to 12:00pm in the Great Room for a jam. Contact ukesalute@gmail. com for info. September 7 - 30, Quesnel: Eco-Sprouts Nature Exploration at the Nature Education Center. All ages welcome, children must be accompanied by an adult. All activities can be adapted to any age. Admission is $2.00/ child, $5.00/family. For more information please call 250992-5833 September 7, Wells: ‘God is Like a Scottish Drag Queen’ From critically-ac-
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claimed and award-winning comedian Mike Delamont comes his most popular character yet! Join in for an evening with God like you have never imagined. ‘God’ skewers everything from the iPhone to the Pope. Show starts at 8:00pm at the Sunset Theatre. Tickets are $12 or $10 for seniors, children & students September 8 and 11, Williams Lake: The Studio Theatre is holding auditions for its first play of the new season, Norm Foster’s Office Hours directed by Mary-Jo Hilyer and Micheal Hodgson. The play needs six to 12 male and female actors ages 20 and older. Auditions will be held Thursday, Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 11 at 3 p.m. at the theatre in Glendale elementary. New and experienced actors are welcome to audition and/or help out behind the scenes. For more information call Mary-Jo at 250-305-4801. September 8, Quesnel: Quesnel Film Club: Beginners. Beginners is a moving and oftentimes hilarious portrait of family, love, loss, and self discovery. It deftly juggles two chronologies to tell the heartwarming story of two major points in the life of Oliver, a talented illustrator: one follows the slowburning deterioration of his father, who is dying of cancer; the other follows a bereaved Oliver, who has become somewhat of a shutin, while
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he tries to maintain a relationship with a young actress. Doors at 6:30pm, tickets are $9.00/adults, $7.00/seniors at the Carib Theatre. For more information please call 250747-7422 or 250-747-3979 September 9, Williams Lake and September 10 in Quesnel: The Elks Club is hosting entertainers Bernie and Red - popular comedy show. Show starts at 8:00pm and is a fundraiser for the Elks club - tickets and more info call Wendel Schachtel 250-989-5182 or Arnie at 250-392-5451 in Williams Lake or 250-992-8506 in Quesnel September 9 - 11, 100 Mile House: South Cariboo Community Fall Fair and Horse Show at the South Cariboo Rec Center. Trade, produce, and live entertainment! Fun for the whole family. Come out and enjoy the show! September 10, Horsefly: If you are interested in being a part of Arts on the Fly 2012, please join us at the Annual General Meeting will be on Saturday September 10th at 2pm, at the Horsefly Library. September 10, Xatsull Heritage Village: You are invited to celebrate Sllwéltsten (the Fall Season), “when everything leaves,” with us and enjoy traditional cultural activities including: pit cooking, hide tanning, singing
and drumming, story telling, arts and crafts, and guided tours of the village. Admission is by donation. FOr information please contact Miriam Schilling at 250-9892311 or check the website at www.xatsullheritagevillage. com September 10, Williams Lake to Gavin Lake: Tour de Cariboo! Take part in this challenging 75 km ride from Williams Lake to Gavin Lake. The ride features spectacular scenery, varied terrain, and great fun. You will be fully supported with bike maintenance, support drivers, first aid on route, and rest stops providing lunch & refreshments along the way. When you reach the lake, you will be greeted by friendly faces, hot showers, an outdoor sauna and incredible food. Guests are invited to join you for dinner. Enjoy your afternoon on the shores of picturesque Gavin Lake. Following dinner and presentations transportation is provided back to town. Free overnight accommodation is available in a warm and comfortable cabin on site for those who wish to spend the evening at the lake. Ride on you own, or join a relay to break up the trip. This event is yours to make it a ride, race or relay. The Stew Crew will also be on hand and in the ride! For more info on how you can be involved check out the website at www. bbswlake.com/tour.htm
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September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 13
Fall equinox occurs on September 23 this year, and is traditionally celebrated by the soaking and burning of a doll made of corn. We prefer the Burning Man Festival in Nevada. There’s way more nudity and performance art.
couraged and welcome. There will be an information booth down by the statue Friday night and Saturday all day till 4pm. Sunday is a pancake breakfast run by the seniors and Likely community, by donation located at the statue in front of the store. For more information contact Mark at Red Shreds Bike and Board Shop.
TODD SULLIVAN PHOTO
WE LOVE MOM The Music On the Mountain (or MoM) festival in Fort St. James filled its stage with three days of fantastic performances.
September 16 - 30, 100 Mile House: The South Cariboo Weavers, Spinners & Fibre Artists Guild Fibre to Art and everything in between show is on at the Parkside Art Gallery. September 10, Williams Lake: Interfaith Symposium - topic Life after Death Myth or Reality at the Gibraltar Room from 3:00pm to 7:00pm. Free Admission, Free Refreshment for info and registration 1-877-767-1965 September 10, 100 Mile House: South Cariboo Idols Special Finale Concert! Come out and Support your South Cariboo Idols at the Martin Exeter Hall. Contact Rob Fry for more information at 250-396-4719 September 10 and 11, Williams Lake: 35th
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Annual Harvest Fair to be held at the Stampede Grounds - for more information please call Tammy 250-302-9310 September 11, Williams Lake at Boitanio Park and West Fraser Timber Park in Quesnel: The SPCA’s annual Paws for a Cause walk is one of the foundation’s largest annual events, with registration at 9:00 am and the walk beginning at 10:00 am. Following the walk will be a silent auction, lunch, a raffle for a large handmade dog house, pet and kid games, and a kids’ choir group. For more information, contact the local
Williams Lake SPCA branch at 250-392-2179. September 16 - 18, Likely: It’s the 20th Annual Unlikely Paddle Fest. On Friday night camping is down town Likely by the General store and the pub. Canadian Waste is playing Friday night, $5 cover at the pub and then Saturday 9am-ish is an anything that floats parade by the statue downtown Likely. Anyone with a float is encouraged to join in the fun. Saturday night Foam Mesh $15 advance or $20 at the door. Tshirts will be on sale for $20. Costumes are en-
September 16, Quesnel: South Quesnel Movie Night! The South Quesnel Business Association in partnership with the Cariboo Kart Racers and proudly sponsored by Cariboo Security, Quesnel Portable Toilets, The Observer and the Wolf and Rush Radio, will be showing Disney’s Cars 2 on the big screen outdoors at the Quesnel Go-Kart Tracks. Gates open at 6:00pm, show starts at 7:00pm. Admission is a minimum donation of $2. All Proceeds will be split between Thor Blocksidge and Jacob Witzke. People are encouraged to bring lawn chairs
Quality and ethics, because they matter We will be closed on Mondays for now, but check back for longer hours in October!
September 16, Williams Lake: A Tribute to honour writer and former Chilcotin-Coast MP Paul St. Pierre, organized by Krista Liebe, will be held in the Gibraltar Room at the Cariboo Memorial Complex starting at 7 p.m. St. Pierre will be in attendance to tell the audience about his adventures in the CaribooChilcotin and the CBC television film Cariboo Country (writer) will be shown. His famous
books about the region include Breaking Smith’s Quarterhorse, Boss of Namko Drive, Chilcotin and Beyond, In the Navel of the Moon, Old Enough to Know Better , Sister Balonika, Smith and Other Events, and Tell Me a Good Lie. Tickets will be $10 at the front and back doors. September 17, Barkerville: Williams Creek Fire Brigade Day. “Amazing Race” relay and other games, “Fire Brigade Follies” presented by Theatre Royal, visit with the Wells Volunteer Fire Brigade.
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PAGE 14 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
Don’t forget to come to the ‘Harvest Festival of Awesome!’ We think it’ll be pretty good!
Join the largest event supporting animals in BC! Sunday, September 11, 2011 at Botianio Park, WL Registration 9:00 am — Get your AM coffee here! Walk starts at 10:00 am — 1.5km, 2.5km, and 5km routes Register with your collected pledges or make a $10.00 donation to join the walk and receive your event t-shirt. Fantastic prizes for top pledge earners! TODD SULLIVAN PHOTO
REGISTER ONLINE NOW!
• SILENT AUCTION! • BC SPCA Merchandise! • Concession 11 am - 1 pm • Fun, Games, Entertainment, and Activities, All day Long! WIN THIS DOG HOUSE! Size 3x3x4 Donated by New Start Roofing and Siding All proceeds to WL BC SPCA Branch
Raffle Tickets $2 Each 3 for $5
Tickets available at the Branch, Cool Clear Water, WL Vet Clinic, Burgess, Scotia Bank, Total Pet, and Beaver Valley Feeds
Animal Care Hospital Footprints on our hearts A pet will walk into your life and leave a lasting imprint on your heart. With a unique casting of your pet’s paw prints, the warmth and love your pet gave can last forever. The heart-shaped clay plaque will lovingly showcase your pets individual paw print. Regular cost for this special items is $34.00. BUT during the annual Scotia Bank & BC SPCA Paws for a Cause Walk this truly special gift will be available through Animal Care Veterinary Clinic when a donation is made to the Williams Lake & District BC SPCA.
Local sponsor:
Johnston Meier Insurance Agencies Group For more information, to register online, or download a pledge form visit:
spca.bc.ca/walk Thank you to our provincial sponsors:
POTATO TIME Oren Barter brought his considerable talents to the opening of the Potato House project in Williams Lake. September 18, Williams Lake: The Cariboo Memorial Complex is hosting the Terry Fox Run starting at 10:00am - for more information call 250-398-7665 September 18, 100 Mile House: It’s the Annual Toy Run!! Come out to the A&W parking lot at 11:00am and show your support to the kids. For more information please call Phil Doddridge at 250-395-2296 September 23, Williams Lake at Boitanio Park: The Take Back the Night March begins at 5:00 pm at Boitanio Park and concludes at Marie Sharpe. They will have guest speakers and will be serving chili and bannock. The march helps raise awareness and honors women and families who have been affected by violence. This is a free event. September 24, Williams Lake: The Stew Magazine and the Oliver Street Market are joining together to present The Harvest Festival of Awesome! On Saturday, September 24, the duo is bringing a variety of events together to celebrate local foods, bring focus on the community, raise funds for the promotion of community markets, and, of course, have a whole lot of fun! September 24, Quesnel: Please join the Rotarians for our “Toast to India - Bollywood Style” event. This exciting event will help increase cultural awareness in Quesnel through food, fellowship, entertainment and fun. The net proceeds are designated for literacy projects - a Quesnel literacy project and to assist the Rotary Club of Bombay to fund the Yusuf Meherally School Library on Wheels at Mumbai. With your support we can make this happen! Authentic Indian dinner and appetizers with Live and Silent Auction, Entertainment, and Dancing. Tickets are $65 and are available at City Furniture, Investors Group, Ricki’s Bootlegger or from any Rotary Club member.
September 24 and 25, Williams Lake: ArtsBC, with support from CanadianHeritage/Patrimoine canadien and the BC Arts Council present the BC Arts Sustainability Semesters, a goal-oriented program designed to increase the capacity of BC’s non-profit arts and cultural organizations. The purpose is to help organizations make progress toward increasing their economic sustainability and viability. Project advisors include the BC Touring Council and the Centre for Sustainability. ArtsBC is also working in conjunction with arts organizations in host communities around the province to present this project. Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis and is free for representatives from BC’s not-for-profit arts and cultural organizations. Registration is available on-line at the links below. Please note we currently accept on-line registrations only. Seating is limited. We highly encourage arts and cultural organizations to register a minimum of two representatives, preferably three people per organization. The Semesters are more likely to have a positive impact if more than one person from the organization attends. Please contact Leah at the CCAC at (778) 412-9044 for more information or register at http://sustainsemester2. eventbrite.com/ September 29, Quesnel: It’s the Last Rocky Mountaineer Train of the season. Come down to the Quesnel Train Station at 5:30pm and enter the draw for the grand prize trip for 2 aboard the rocky mountaineer. A chance to win fabulous door prizes and complimentary beverages will be available. FOr information please call Victoria or Patty at 250-991-5107 or 250-992-8716 September 30, Williams Lake: Elder College: Pottery Classes with Instructor Buff Carnes. Located in the Great Room of the Central Cariboo Arts Centre. Please contact Elder College for info and registration
September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 15
Sadly, you can’t absorb knowledge just by sleeping on a textbook.
StewSpots How to educate yourself on the cheap Looking to get your copy on the latest edition of THE STEW Magazine? We’re available for pickup in a variety of places around the Cariboo Chilcotin. Please remember that this list is always evolving, and we’re always looking for new places that our magazine can call home, so if you know of someplace that you think should be a drop-off point for THE STEW, or if you own a business and you’d like to have a few copies of our magazine on your shelves, plus let us know.You can reach us by email at either todd@thestew. ca or juli@thestew.ca. Locations listed in alphabetical order 100 MILE HOUSE 99 Mile Supermarket A&W Chartreuse Moose Chevron Dairy Queen Donex Higher Ground Natural Foods KFC Lone Butte General Store Marcel’s Boulevard Cafe Nuthatch Book Store Parkside Art Gallery Pharmasave Safeway Save-On Foods Subway Tim Hortons Visitor Centre IN LAC LA HACHE Fast Trac Gas and Convenience Store IN WILLIAMS LAKE 7-Eleven A&W Alley Katz Bean Counter Canwest Propane Cariboo Growers Cariboo Spring CRD Library (Magazine & News Section) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Center Dairy Queen Dandelion Living Denny’s Restaurant Dollar Dollar Elaine’s Natural Foods The Gecko Tree Halls Organics Hobbit House Karamia’s LD’s Cafe M&M Meat Shop McDonald’s Mohawk Movies on the Go New World Cafe The Open Book The Overlander Hotel Quiznos Red Shred’s Safeway Sandman Inn Save On Foods Shell Shopper’s Drug Mart Starbucks Station House Gallery Subway (Downtown) Subway (on the Highway) Tim Horton’s Tourism Info Centre WLCBIA Women’s Contact Society Zellers Restaurant IN HORSEFLY Clarke’s General Store Cornerhouse Cafe The Post Office RaceTrac Gas IN MCLEESE LAKE Cariboo Wood Shop McLeese Lake General Store IN QUESNEL 7-Eleven (on the Highway) 7-Eleven (in West Quesnel) A&W Aroma Foods Billy Barker Hotel & Casino Booster Juice Burger Palace Carry All Books Granville’s Coffee Green Tree Health & Wellness Karin’s Deli Museum & Tourist Centre Quiznos Riverside Bistro (West Park Mall) Safeway Save On Foods Shopper’s Drug Mart Steeped Subway Tim Horton’s (on the Highway) Tim Horton’s (Downtown) IN HANCEVILLE Lee’s Corner IN TATLA LAKE Graham’s Inn IN BELLA COOLA Valley Inn Coast Mountain Lodge Valley Restaurant Eagle Lodge
Is there such a thing as a free education? I’ve done some digging on this very subject and the answer is surprising, and it depends on exactly what you want from your education, whether you are taking the course to learn something just for you, or if you want the course to prove you learned something. If you want to learn something just for your own knowledge, then the answer is most definitely, “Yes.” And there are many places online that you can go to learn practically anything for free. However, if you want to take the course to gain credits, degrees, or certificates, then the answer is, “No.” The only way to actually gain credits is to pay for those courses, although I did find out that there is an online school called ‘University of the People’ that charges you a $50 application fee and only charges you $100 per exam. There is a small problem with this, however — it is not an accredited University in the State of California, where it is headquartered. In other words, you can do all the work with this University and get Associate (A.S.-B.A.) and Bachelor (B.S.-B.A.)
Fine Frugality By Angela Shephard degrees in Business Administration and Associate (A.S.-C.S.) and Bachelor (B.S.-C.S.) degrees in Computer Science, but no other school will allow you to transfer any credits from there. To top it off, here in Canada you may have trouble getting anyone to acknowledge those degrees. If you want to keep education costs down, you can go to a college or university to challenge their courses, if you feel comfortable in your knowledge of the material, but that again will cost you money to challenge each exam. And depending on which school you challenge at, you may be covering information that is not applicable to our province, let alone Canada. And always make sure you check the laws and regulations in your area that are applicable to the material you wish to challenge. If you are interested
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in a certain program at college or university but are unsure how well you may do, then I highly recommend finding a free online school that covers that interest. This way you can discover if you can do the courses without spending any money, plus there won’t be a grade put on your record if you don’t succeed. I spend a great deal of time reading books on a variety of subjects, simply because they interest me. However, I have no intention of going to college or actually doing these things for a living. I am fairly sure that I’m not a great acupuncturist, masonist, house builder, or gardener (I have a black thumb), but I still try to read or learn about them anyways. I highly recommend learning new things. Scientists say that it is the best way to keep your brain sharp, aside from a healthy lifestyle. With all the information
that you can find online, in the library, and the like, you can learn about pretty much anything that suits your fancy. There are also quite a few colleges and universities that now do correspondence and online programs. They will cost you some money, but they are usually flexible for the student, so that if you have to work to support your family, you can still find time for the courses. Most of those schools also allow you to take one to five courses at a time, but
you need to check to see how long in total that they will allow you to complete the program. Some of those colleges will, for a fee, extend your allotted time frame. If you wish to see some of the sites that I have discussed in this article, or any other free online schools that I looked at while researching this article, feel free to check out my blog at www.fine-frugality.blogspot.com. angela@thestew.ca
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PAGE 16 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
Strangely, canning seems to mostly involve jars, and not cans.
Keep delicious food at your fingertips I was all set to visit Fraser Bench Farm, near Soda Creek, where Lynda Archibald makes the most delicious canned preserves — pickles, jams, spiced pears, apple sauce, and more — when my dog decided it would be a good idea to eat ant bait traps. Although I’ve heard there’s not enough poison in them to seriously hurt a dog, I’ve been a little over-protective since July, when she and her best dog-buddy, Kasha, ate something that gave them seizures. This led to a night in the Williams Lake Vet Hospital (they have wonderful staff there!) with two dogs hooked up to IVs, where we thought we might lose them. So I panicked when I found that Kali had, again, gotten into something she shouldn’t have. Needless to say, Kali is fine, but I never did make it out to Lynda and Charlie’s, and therefore can’t write about their farm in this article. However, I do highly recommend Lynda’s preserves — you can contact her through Cariboo Growers to place canning orders for this fall.
So, onto the art of preserving food! Putting up food for the winter is slowly becoming a lost art form; why take the time to can peaches when we can buy them ‘fresh’ or canned from the grocery store any month of the year? I am passionate about preserving for the winter, and these are my main reasons: 1. You get a huge sense of satisfaction that you can meet the most important need of your family, and the feeling that comes from looking at all your beautiful preserves on shelves or hanging in the kitchen, just waiting to be enjoyed. 2. You know what you are eating and where it came from — one of our fabulous local farms or your own garden! 3. No unnecessary packaging, transport pollution, etc. 4. Pleasure! Stringing onions and garlic, making wine, concocting chutneys, etc., are all pleasurable activities in themselves, and opening up a jar of homemade fruit cocktail in the dead of winter is quite the treat!
With much focus in the media these last few years on contamination and food poisoning, preserving sounds scary to many people — it feels to me that the proverbial ‘they’ want us to believe that you need to be an expert in food handling safety to make homemade dill pickles. Don’t misunderstand me; the way our global food system is organized makes the current safety standards and regulations essential for grocery items. However, people have been processing and preserving food for later use for thousands of years. A little common sense, a clean facility to process, and an understanding of the quality of food you are using can go a long way to creating a healthy, safe, delicious product, from your own home. Also, please note that preserving does not necessarily mean canning; when I use the term, I mean storing vegetables in our basements, canning, fermenting, drying, freezing, salting, etc. This is such a huge topic to cover, so instead of trying to get through it all, I am going to list the books on the subject that I could not do without when it comes to storing, processing and preserving food: • How to Store Your Garden Produce: The Key to Self-Sufficiency by Piers Warren • Preserving Food Without Freezing or Canning: Traditional Techniques Using
Salt, Oil, Sugar, Alcohol, Vinegar, Drying, Cold Storage and Lactic Fermentation by the Gardeners and Farmers of Terre Vivante • Root Cellaring: Natural Cold Storage of Fruits and Vegetables by Mike and Nancy Bubel • Put ‘em Up!: A Comprehensive Home Preserving Guide for the Creative Cook by Sherri Brooks Vinton • Bernardin Complete Book of Home Preserving, edited by Judi Kingry and Lauren Devine • Wild Fermentation: The Flavour, Nutrition and Craft of Live-Cultured Foods by Sandor Ellix Katz The City of Williams Lake Rec Centre is also hosting two canning workshops in September, in partnership with the Williams Lake Food Policy Council. See their Program Guide for details. It is also now time to think about ordering your storage vegetables from local farms — carrots, onions, potatoes, beets, rutabagas, cabbage, etc. If you have a specific request for preserves or vegetables, you can also contact me (Food Action Coordinator, the Williams Lake Food Policy Council) and I will put you in touch with the appropriate producers! ZESTY ZUCCHINI PICKLES Makes about 6 pint (500mL) jars This is one of my
Bring on the beef.
Eating Local By Michelle Daymond favourite recipes. Most people have an abundance of zucchini in their gardens, and one can only make so much relish before you get tired of it. Also, because this year was a colder start to the growing season, pickling cucumbers are harder to find, so this could be a great substitute for our pickle cravings! 14 cups sliced zucchini, 1/4 inch slices ½ cup pickling salt Cool water 6 cups white vinegar 4 cups granulated sugar 4 tsp mustard seeds 2 tsp celery seeds 2 tsp ground tumeric 1. In a glass or stainless steel bowl, layer zucchini slices with pickling salt. Add cool water to cover, cover and let stand at room temperature for two hours. Transfer to a colander and drain zucchini. Rinse with cool running water and drain thoroughly. 2. In a large stainless steel saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds and tumeric. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Reduce heat and
boil gently for five minutes, until spices have infused the liquid. Stir in zucchini. Remove from heat, cover and let stand for one hour. 3. Meanwhile, prepare canner, jar and lids (see details in a book on canning if you need specifics) 4. Return saucepan to medium-high heat and bring zucchini mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and boil gently for five minutes. 5. Pack zucchini into hot jars to within ½” of top of jar. Ladle hot pickling liquid into jar to cover vegetables leaving ½” head space. Remove air bubbles and add liquid if necessary. Wipe rim. Centre lid on jar. Screw band down until resistance is met, then increase to fingertip-tight. 6. Place jars in canner, ensuring they are completely covered with water. Bring to a boil and process for 10 minutes. Remove canner lid. Wait five minutes, then remove jars, cool and store. Don’t forget to label your jars! You may know what’s in them now, but you might forget seven months from now. candoitconsulting150@ gmail.com
TWO GREAT LOCATIONS! Downtown: 336 Mart Street, Williams Lake, BC • (250) 398-7821 Highway 97: 1196 Broadway Ave, Williams Lake, BC • (250) 398-7800
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September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 17
We’re glad that Carol (and Michelle!)will be biking for us in the Tour de Cariboo — we’re pretty sure there’s no way we would be able to do it all on our own
You really can reach your goals if you put your mind to it “Why did you sign up for Ironman?” is a question I have been asked many times in the past year, and my pat answer was something like, “I didn’t have anything else to do.” But the truth is there was way more to it than that. For me, it was one of those challenges that seemed out of my realm, and yet I was always interested in what it took to complete an Ironman. I must have always known I would do one since I was determined to learn to swim – a goal I really got serious about when one of the lifeguards at the pool said she would help me out. I had already taken a Learn To Run course and was enjoying my 10km races, and for my first sprint distance triathlon I used my mountain bike to get around. I kept my eye on the idea of getting a real road bike one day, and once I finally got my fancy carbon-frame baby last summer I realised that Ironman could be in my future. Last year when I stood in line to register for the Ironman Canada 2011 race, I was excited and scared and full of the same nervous energy as the 1,100 other first-timers who signed up that day. Most of us had no idea of what we were getting ourselves into – a year of training, dealing with setbacks, juggling work and
family, and retaining some sanity if at all possible. I had been worried about how I was going to take my 40-something body and convince it to go from running the occasional 10km run or half-marathon, to swimming for 3.8 km, biking for 180 km and then doing a 42.2 km marathon – all in the same day! I know that goal-setting is a good thing, but perhaps it was a bit much to plan to reach 3 goals at once on the same day. However, once I handed over my credit card there was no turning back. And I never once regretted it. I had the sense to hire a coach who was an Ironman champion, and who led me through what I needed to do for eight months. She had complete faith in my ability to do the work and do as I was told (anyone who knows me understands that I rarely do as I am told, so this was a pretty big deal). She reigned me in a few times when I didn’t think I was training enough, because she understood that it’s the little changes in the long-term plan that lead to success in the end. As an endurance racing newbie it was great to have a seasoned mentor help me to understand the aspects of training for such a huge endeavour. This year I learned to swim better than ever, and to understand my pace in
Stir By Carol Davidson the water even without a timing clock to look at. I learned how to ride and handle my spiffy time trial bike, and I learned that I really like doing hills. I learned how much I love to pass people on hills, too! And I learned that it’s okay to plan to walk a marathon in Ironman, especially when one’s back wants to opt out of the whole program. With patience in training and a lot of support from friends I stood on the beach at Ironman Canada in Penticton on August 28, marvelling at how I finally made it to that spot, when 10 years ago I would barely move off the couch. Looking out at Okanagan Lake and the line of buoys on the swim course, I had complete confidence that I belonged there with the other 2,880 athletes. It was a great feeling. Let me assure you, Ironman athletes come in every shape and size imaginable, and their ages range from 18 to 81 (seriously...check the stats at www.ironman.
ca). There are very few greyhounds in the crowd – the majority of athletes are average-looking people with average-looking bodies. Some of those bodies were in wheelchairs, or were blind. The difference between them and the rest of the world boils down to the desire to do the work and do whatever it took to be at the start line. It’s that simple. That lesson applies to every athletic pursuit, be it a 5 km fun run, a marathon, or a multi-day adventure race. Everyone on that beach deserved to be there. Once I was through the mix-master of a swim (in 1 hour 38 minutes) I was greeted by a line of volunteers who enthusiastically tore off my wetsuit and sent me on my way to get ready for the bike course. One advantage to being at the back of the pack was that my bike was really easy to spot since it was the only one left on the rack. I was in no danger of winning my age group so
I took it easy on the bike course and went only as hard as I felt comfortable doing. I passed a lot of people going up Richter Pass and it wasn’t because I was a stronger biker but because too many people went out too hard (thanks to my Coach, she taught me better!). After Richter, there was still another 110km to go so they would have had a long ride ahead as a result. I have never been a heat-lover but I learned to love it on race day. Conditions were well above 30 degrees and there wasn’t much more a person could do than wear sunscreen and keep hydrated with electrolytes. The organisers threw in an extra challenge by running out of water at 3 aid stations but the locals stepped up to the challenge by bringing out their hoses to shower us down and fill water bottles. I love the people of Caleden! The spectators were the most incredible bunch of people I’d ever witnessed at a race. From generally encouraging words and cowbells to elaborate costumes, they kept the racers entertained and pumped up the entire time. I high-fived a small gorilla, Elvis, and all my friends who came out to watch – how cool is that? The race course was teeming with incredibly encouraging signage, some aimed at specific racers and some for just everyone.
There was even a marriage proposal. I truly believe the fastest people at Ironman missed the best part of the day. Out on the run course, which snaked along the shores of Skaha Lake, was a community of people who were all bonded together by one goal – to get back to Penticton by midnight. We chatted with each other and made sure we were going to be okay. We bonded long enough to encourage each other to get up a hill and then went our separate ways. We gazed up at the clear, beautiful and warm night sky, and watched the line of glowsticks which adorned the runners moving along in darkness like a giant snake. We talked about how our day had gone so far, we compared which body parts were hurting the most, and we all knew we’d soon complete Ironman Canada. The quiet anticipation and excitement was palpable. Crossing the finish line at 15 hours 45 minutes and 46 seconds was one of the most satisfying moments of my life. Even before I got to the finish I knew I had to do it again – it was one of the richest experiences of my life and I can’t wait for August 26, 2012! However, now I have the overwhelming urge to do nothing but eat and sleep for a few days first... stir@thestew.ca
Now at two great locations! Downtown at 86 3rd Ave. North Just across from Sta-Well Health Foods
Thompson Rivers University Cafeteria Neighbourhood & highschools welcome for breakfast and lunch
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398-2006 86 3rd Avenue North, Williams Lake (Old Cowboy Coffee location) Now open from 9am to 7pm from Mon. to Fri. and 11am to 7pm Sat.
Together we stand... This Month at the Women’s Contact Society: • Glendale Playgroup – each Monday, will be closed Monday September 5 • Songs, Rhymes and Story Time – Each Tuesday • Business of Child Care – Wednesday September 21 • Noon Hour workshop with Shoppers Drug Mart – Arthritis – Tuesday September 13 • Women’s Monthly Get Together – Fishing with the Bifferts – Tuesday September 27 • Deadline for Good Food Box Purchase – Wednesday September 14 by 2:00 pm Please phone for registration and times. Pre-registration is required.
#301 19 N First Ave, Williams Lake, BC 250-392-4118 • Fax: 250-392-4145
PAGE 18 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
Juli and Todd tried really hard to make it down to Shambhala, but it simply wasn’t to be. We heard it was a pretty great time, though. Maybe next year!
Touring the festival circuit BY TRAVIS “ARAMUS” NEEDHAM This year I decided to try a new way of living. I sold my car and moved into a travel backpack with the intention of using only my thumb and charm to travel. My first destination was the indigenous leadership gathering called ‘Protecting The Sacred’ near Fountain Lake, close to Lillooet, in the first week of June. The gathering is held on St’át’imc Nation reserve land, this year hosted by Darryl Bob, and in a majestic valley with a river running past and a fountain lake within short walking distance. All food is provided and camping on site is free of change, but you are to make an agreement not to
sell anything or become intoxicated in any way while on the land. The center of the gathering is a large arbor with a stage where indigenous leaders from across the planet talk about the teachings of their people. Tibetan monks, Mayan elders, local chiefs and children make. Anyone who has something to share is welcome to talk. Sweats run at 5 am and 5 pm every day and other ceremonies occur throughout the event. It was an incredibly uplifting and spiritual experience for me and everyone I have spoken to who attended. It was there that I decided not to return to my hometown, instead traveling with my new friends to the Kootenays. Later on that month I would return to Williams
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Lake, leaving all my personal possessions that wouldn’t fit in my backpack at the share shed. The next event I found myself hitchhiking to was the Entheos solstice gathering in the Nahatlatch valley near Boston Bar. I was not interested in paying full ticket price, and as fate would have it a friend who couldn’t attend left his ticket half price at the door for me. Here you’ll find a large valley with snow caps on the surrounding mountains. There are three stages featuring electronic music performances: A large geodesic dome in a field is the ‘Lightship Stage’, tucked into the woods is the ‘Metatron’, and the main stage is the ‘Temple of Life’, which is a geometric marvel containing areas correlating to each of the seven chakras, with the heart at the center of the stage. Incredible art is everywhere, digital artists project masterpieces on canvas walls, and performance artists come out en masse. There is a food and vendor area with everything from Mexican cuisine to raw vegan dishes available. During the day workshops on everything from permaculture to yoga run at each stage. For me, the people in attendance were a major highlight, having seen many of the staff and attendees at ‘Protecting the Sacred’ I had an instant connection with many of them, and met many more new friends while making the rounds of the campfires. Having made solid con-
FESTIVAL FACES From left are Lauren Alicia, Chris Bruce, Matt Toop, Daniel Chameleon, Travis “Aramus” Needham, Bradford temple, and Clayton Toop at the Shambhala Music Festival. nections at Entheos I was able to secure a volunteer position at the gathering I had been hearing about all summer called ‘Towards Eden’ held in mid July on the same land as Entheos. ‘Towards Eden’ is all about sustainability. A lot of the food was planted on the land several months prior. All the power is provided by sustainable means. The kitchen has a ‘bike blender’ and there is a free smoothie bar. Meals are provided for all attendees. There is a bus stage in the open field and an acoustic jam space tucked into the woods. The main stage has a row of bikes for the extra power needed in the night with a box of fresh organic apples close by for fueling the human power. On either side are wind generators and in an open space there is an array of solar panels. Workshops run all day on a wide variety of subjects centered around living in harmony with the land.
For me this gathering was an incredible opportunity to give back to the community, and as a volunteer I was designated as ‘vibe patrol’ with the ‘job’ of keeping the vibe high and making sure people followed the rules. For a short time I was given the volunteer coordinator position and I am glad to say I was able to rise to the challenge and helped to take care of the nutritional needs of volunteers. My last gathering of the summer was the Shambhala music festival near Salmo, which is much larger than the the gatherings I had attended earlier in the year. Over 10,000 people gather on an operating ranch, along with massive stages, tons of vendors, and big name performers. This gathering is so epic that a whole article could easily be dedicated to just the days leading up to the event, so let me just offer some highlights. The opening ceremony was a performance art
masterpiece. I managed to get onto the stage and sat near Dub FX for his set, while watching many others get booted off. Using my ‘Jedi Powers’ I gained entry to the VIP section where I was able to bump fists with the DJ Bassnectar and helped a couple of friends who have Bassnectar tattoos get a picture with him. On the last night I danced so hard I made it onto stage and was referenced as one of the talent, as a performance dancer. This summer I learned the art of thumb travel and and how to put my trust in the universe. The BC festival circuit has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I made tons of new friends, saw some beautiful locations, and experienced awesome adventures. I look forward to being a volunteer at any and all gatherings I find myself called to next year, and catching up with all the great people I met this year.
Childcare Resource & Referral
Business of Child Care Formerly at the Husky, now located on McKinnon Road beside Handi Mart in the old Gateway Video store, in Williams Lake Apples, Plums, Canning Tomatoes, Squash, Pumpkins, Root Crops, Fresh BC Garlic, BC Local Honey, Blueberries, Blackberries, Free Stone Peaches, Jalapeno Peppers, Organic Produce, and more in now!
Are you thinking of starting your own in-home child care, re-opening your centre after a summer off, or just in need of a refresh? Learn about: • Eligibility for unemployment benefits! • All child care income is reportable and needs to be claimed on income tax! • What are some of the tax write-offs? • Why you need Child Care Policies and Procedures • What are some other important records? • Why you need Child Care Insurance
When: Wednesday, September 21, 2011 Time: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm Location: Women’s Contact Society Boardroom Facilitators: Dawn Wall, CCRR and Kirsten Stark, Financial Literacy Project Coordinator
To pre-register please call 250-392-4118
September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 19
THE STEW MAGAZINE’S
Monthly
We’re pretty sure that a Metallica / Lou Reed collaboration, inspired by German theatre, can only be some kind of awesome.
MIX
Music releases heating up in Sept. As summer winds down and festivals and summer tours come to a close, the music industry is buzzing with news of upcoming releases, reunions, collaborations and the start of the fall / winter touring schedule. This really is my personal favourite time of year for music. Festivals are a blast but, realistically, I don’t get to as many as I would like. This time of year is all about the new releases. Bands want to push a new album out in time for the Christmas shopping season and along with a new album comes a new tour. I love it! This fall we’ll see new releases from Ladytron, Opeth, Evanescence, Jane’s Addiction, Blink 182, Tom Waits, Mary J. Blige, a new supergroup called SuperHeavy, a Metallica and Lou Reed collaboration, and Ministry! “Wait, what was that last one?” You saw it right, my friends. Read on. Between the writing of this article and the printing of this article, two albums I’m looking forward to will be released. Canadian all-girl metal band, Kittie, will release their latest studio album, I’ve Failed You. The video for the first single, We Are The Lamb, can be found on YouTube. David Guetta also released an album at the end of August. Nothing But The Beat hit shelves August 29 and the single, Titanium (featuring Sia) can be found on YouTube as well. The next upcoming
Tone Soup By Jamie Horsley album I’m excited about is Ladytron’s new Gravity The Seducer which will be released on the September 13. Daniel Hunt says the album will be “more ethereal and melodic, a touch more abstract.” From listening to the album trailer and the video for White Elephant, both of which are available on their website, I’m certain that this will be a solid downtempo electronica album. Then, on September 20, Heritage, Opeth’s new album, comes out. Opeth fans, including myself, have been waiting for this one for a while now. Opeth frontman, Mike Akerfeldt, says the album is “quite intense at times in some ‘old’ murky way, and quite beautiful and stark at times, if I may say so myself.” The first single, The Devil’s Orchard, is available on iTunes and sounds incredible! At the same time, Mary J. Blige will release her 10th studio album, My Life II; The Journey Continues, as a sequel to her 1994 debut album, My Life. I happened to be watching the twitter feeds when her latest single,
25/8, debuted online. Suddenly every tweet was about this incredible new song. It’s an awesomely powerful hip-hop ballad in which she sings “‘Cause I got so much love for you boy, I need another hour and a day so I can love you 25/8.” This song will blow you away, and the album promises to be just as powerful. Mick Jagger’s new supergroup, SuperHeavy, will also drop their new studio album on September 20. Supergroups usually drown under the weight of their stars. We expect that with so much talent in one band, the music should blow us out of the water, when in reality the result is often rather disappointing. The skepticism is already surfacing around SuperHeavy, the band comprised of Mick Jagger, Joss Stone, Damien Marley, Dave Stuart and A.R. Rahman. The first taste of this awesomely intriguing collaboration is a reggae tune called Miracle Worker. It’s got me groovin’. A week after that we get the full meal deal from the reformed Blink-182. They went on ‘indefinite hiatus’ in
2005 and reformed in 2009, but since then the going has been slow. The new album, Neighbourhoods, has been postponed from its originally intended release in the spring of 2011 several times. The first single, Up All Night, finally aired in July and the album is scheduled for September 27. It really does takes a lot these days for a band to break up and be done for good. Almost no one says “Oh, we had a good run but we’re done now and we wont be doing any more. Ever.” Usually the band lead has to die or everyone in the band has to be really angry at each other. Well in 2008 Ministry announced that they had had a good run and the time had come. They released a final album (The Last Sucker) and played a farewell tour (C U LaTour). With the concern of frontman Al Jourgensen’s health, it was sadly believable that Ministry had come to the very end of their run. Well folks, good news. Jourgensen is back and healthy as ever and that means Ministry is back as well, with a new album and a new tour. The tour is, unfortunately, a small, 4-date US tour with stops in LA, Chicago, Denver and New York. Oh, and they’ll be playing at Wacken 2012. Relapse is the the title of the new album intended to be released by Christmas. I now know what I want for Christmas: Tickets to Ministry in LA! See you next month
These are the songs that rocked our world in July
Todd Sullivan: ‘Perth’ - Bon Iver ‘Holocene’ - Bon Iver ‘Beth / Rest’ - Bon Iver Natasha Stukl: ‘Dirt Road Anthem’ - Jason Aldean ‘Hell on Heels’ - Pistol Annies ‘Our Song’ - Taylor Swift Angela Shephard: ‘Cows With Guns’ - Dana Lyons ‘I Don’t Care’ - Apocalyptica ‘The Little Things’ - Danny Elfman Michelle Daymond: ‘Water Song’ - Drum and Bell Tower ‘Sweet Illusions’ - Ryan Adams and the Cardinals ‘Hold On’ - Emmylou Harris Jamie Horsley: ‘Paranoid Android’ - Radiohead ‘Say It Ain’t So’ - Weezer ‘Parabola’ - Tool Carol Davidson (All music inspired by Ironman): ‘Ice Ice Baby’ - Vanilla Ice (We needed lots of ice out on course!) ‘Ring of Fire’ - Johnny Cash (We were all burning up out there!) It’s my life - Bon Jovi (It’s a great motivational song) when we’ll have had a chance to listen to all this wonderful new music and will still be looking forward to new sounds from Jane’s Addiction, Evanescence, Tom Waits and hopefully there will be more information on the upcoming Metallica / Lou Reed collaboration. We
We’ve got the gear. We can equip you with all you need for school, plus we give music lessons and our friendly staff has more product knowledge than you can shake a stick at. When we’re done with you, you’ll be able to school everyone you meet. GUITARS • BASS • DRUMS • SOUND EQUIPMENT • BRASS • KEYBOARDS • SCHOOL RENTALS
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know it’s a 10-track album called Lulu, and it’s inspired by German playwright Frank Wedekind’s best known works, the Lulu plays: Earth Spirit and Pandora’s Box. Hopefully we’ll hear a bit of it before it’s released on October 31. tonesoup@gmail.com
PAGE 20 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
These aren’t really baby’s eye view shots. They more view-of-a-baby shots. We can’t really help it. The camera is just drawn to her. TAKING BABY STEPS ď ľ She’s only been around for about four months, but already people are asking to see more of little miss Morrigan Spring Sullivan. So while she’s still working on her unique narrative voice for the column we’ll be eventually sticking her with (as soon as she can hold a crayon in her hand), she’s still managing to get out to all the great events that we’re covering here at The Stew Magazine. Want to see what she’s been seeing? Here’s a baby’s eye view of some of the sights we saw this summer.
Contemplating life at the Music on the Mountain Festival.
Hanging out with dad at the Performances in the Park in Williams Lake.
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Are you are an artist, musician, writer, artisan, performer, and/ or organizer looking to build skills and network with your peers and professionals in the business? Join us in Wells, BC for a weekend summit of workshops, seminars, round tables and networking opportunities geared towards empowering artists of all disciplines with skills to help move forward in their careers. $75 for the weekend if you register by the September 15th. Contact IMA for session details and info on accommodations. Brought to you by:
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September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 21
Want to see more of Miss Morrigan Sullivan’s adventures as part of The Stew Magazine’s team? shoot as a note at letters@thestew.ca and let us know!
Saying “Hi!” to Terri Smith from Roads End Vegatable Company at the Oliver Street Market.
Me and mom at Arts on the Fly.
MORE TO COME! It’s been an exciting few months on the planet for Morrigan Sulllivan. Her first summer was filled with outdoor festivals, camping, and delicious cookouts. We can hardly wait to see what the fall and winter has in store for her!
Coffees • Teas • Soups Lunches • Homemade Goodies
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PAGE 22 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
Days that you want to look good for: Job Interviews, Big Dates, Weddings Days when your looks are less important: Trying to finish the new Call of Duty video game.
Look your best on those important days I had ants in my pants, butterflies, and the jitters — all at the same time. This was my first day of beauty school. This day was probably more important than any other day during the entire time I was in beauty school. It was the time to show my personal style and showcase my talents. Ultimately, looking my best wasn’t an option, it was a necessity! I will give you some tips for starting your first
day of beauty school, or even just starting a new job in any industry that deals with fashion or appearance. Tip #1: Bad hair is out! Your hair is a big priority. Keep a good-looking, tidy and fashionable hairstyle. To retain that trendy look when getting back in the swing of things, you want to appear sophisticated and be taken seriously. Opt for versatile and easy to style looks. Creative hair-
Get ready to learn! Stock up on B Vitamins, Multivitamins, and Boost IQ Unit 2-11 2nd Ave. S, Williams Lake • 250-392-1920
Beautydooz By Natasha Stukl cuts can work as long as they’re not way out there. The sleek, straight look, french twists, and medium length hairstyles are popular options. Some of today’s most popular hair trends are the bob or short hairstyles that are quick, easy, and manageable. Hairstyles with bangs or fringes are in as well, along with a layered look. Tip #2: Have skin that’s healthy and glowing.
Summer may be over but that doesn’t mean that your tanned body has to be. Achieving that extra bit of color can be easy! Use a tinted facial moisturizer or even a facial self-tanner, along with a self-tanner for your body, and remember not to leave streaks (my favorite brand is made by Playboy Sun). Always remember to exfoliate and keep your skin moisturized to prevent any flaking or dryness.
Tip #3: Make your eyes shine! Play up your eyes with fun and colorful eye shadow shades; that shows you have creativity and originality. Tones like gray and silver are subtle, but add just enough edge to look visually vibrant. Blending colors together is also ideal if you’re looking to create a custom shade. Checking out the current colors that the celebrities are wearing is also a good idea. Also, remember not to go overboard with eyeliner (no raccoon eyes!) If you’re going with something prominent with your eye makeup, make sure that the rest of your face makeup is toned down. Your skin doesn’t need an excessive amount of foundation and blush – keep it simple. Some black mascara,
tinted moisturizer and a little colored lip gloss will give you just enough of that desired chic look. Tip #4: Let your clothing match your personal style. Black clothing is said to be the most professional looking. Personally I like wearing color. Just remember to wear something appropriate for the dress code and to put some of your own flair into the outfit, (I love dresses, I wear them all year long — I find styles to go with every season). It’s all about expressing yourself and your personality. Let your clothing reflect you! Now that you’ve got some tips on becoming a fashionable student or professional it’s time to put them into action — make a statement wherever you go! hairdooz@telus.net
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September 2011 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 23
Upon arriving home from time spent abroad, many people can also experience reverse culture shock. Presumably if they were to once again travel they could also experience reverse reverse culture shock.
Why some people almost always have difficulty in a foreign culture “Sit down! Shut your mouth, and listen! Or else!” “Did it work?” I ask, acutely aware of the negativity oozing from his eyes, mouth, and skin. “No,” he says,” It never does. I mean, it does for a few minutes, but then they’re right back at it. Talking, talking, talking, each one getting louder than the other, struggling to be heard above the loudest of them all. They’re little #*^€&$’s!” I listen as my friend tells me other tactics he uses to try and get control of his students. All appear to work only partially, hint at cruelty, and reek of disrespect. He’s Canadian. He’s been teaching at a Korean middle school for the past two years, and his stories rarely change. Always there’s drama. Sometimes the stories are funny. But mostly they’re dull. Occasionally, I wish he would pack up his stuff and move his complaining lips back to Canada. Not that I actually prefer the option of him annoying my fellow Canadians with such unhealthy attitudes, but the thought of the waves of Ill-repute his time here in Korea is creating fills me with disdain. What makes matters worse, he’s a certified teacher in Ontario (Look out kids!). Why do I tell you this? Well, my friend’s negativity is not only present in the classroom. Frankly, the guy pretty much criticizes the entire nation of Korea and its culture. Most of his comments, if I really look at them, are essentially comparisons, and the
One Seoul Searching By Michael Jones basic argument is this: Canada is better. While this may be true, the case of my friend has recently got me to wonder: Why is it some people have such difficulty in different cultures? Especially people like us — the educated, the worldly, the flexible? I chalk it up to good old fashioned homesickness and an unwillingness to let go of what we know. Of course, we educated folk like to give homesickness a fancy name. We call it culture shock. The truth is, though, that the two are really one and the same. And the results always tend to look similar. When we are in a new situation, our entire body often cries out for the familiar. The new simply makes no sense. In an attempt to make things reasonable to ourselves, we tend to regress. We want our mommies. We get negative. We compare. We become concerned over the strangest and littlest things. We tend to label things bad, dirty, stupid. We become convinced of our own rightness.
Next Month: Holy Crap, it’s our FIRST ANNIVERSARY!
We grow fearful of others, fretting that ‘those people’ are out to get us, to undermine our respectability or money.
We protest against the culture. Like me, we delay learning the language; perhaps even to the point of outright refusal. In short, we turn catty. We get grumpy. We become negative. But these things usually take some time to surface. They don’t often show up right away. If I ask my friend if his students were always as bad as he says, or if Korea was always as terrible as he feels, he replies no. Instead, He talks of how cool it once was. So what happened? Why did his attitude change? Again, I say homesickness. The smart folks who coined the term ‘culture shock’ say that the initial happiness is simply a part of ‘the honeymoon’: it’s the feeling of wow at being in a cool new place that is different from what we are used to. As with any honeymoon, the end must come. And this end marks a major reason why people have difficulty
Can you believe we’ve been at this for a year? Neither can we. But we’re celebrating anyway!
in foreign cultures. Homesickness leads to restlessness. Restlessness leads to complaint. And complaint turns our brains to negativity. Negativity, as we all know, makes all situations difficult. So what’s the cure? Personally, I think providing a solution is really important. I believe all of us enter into foreign cultures every day. The workplace is foreign. Schools can be foreign. New relationships can be foreign. So we need to know how to combat the ‘culture shock’ that we all may be prone to. The answer? It’s simple: Learn the art of letting go. Become willing to let go of what you know, and to make room for what you do not. In the words of Sam Keen, learn to ‘welcome the strange’. That, and kiss your mommy goodbye. To be unwilling to let go is simply to set yourself up for an inner struggle with what was, what is, and what can never be again. So let it go and live. You may be wondering why I’m friends with such a negative person. Well, and this relates to the theme of this month’s issue, I believe all people can be our teachers. So saying no to some can sometimes prove limiting for our life. Without my friend, for example, I may not have had a topic to write about. And to me, that would have been a small tragedy. Have a great month, dear reader. Talk to you soon. jjonesmii@yahoo.com
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Into the Landscape
Plein Air Paintings from Victoria artist, formerly of Wells, Sept. 2 to Oct. 1
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PAGE 24 | THE STEW Magazine | September 2011
PRESENTS:
KARL WOLF GHETTO LOVE
SEPTEMBER 13
INTRODUCING A SIX PART
BLUES ES SERIES
STARTING September 9 with Harp Dog Brown & Soupbone and then October 10 featuring David Best with Soupbone
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