Quirk March 2014 Issue

nside

Volume 3 • Issue 2 • March - April 2014 www.readquirk.com

XERISCAPING Natural Gardening

by Design

THE GRIZZLY TRUTH With Author Charlie Russell

AFRICA Journey Through a Mother’s Eyes ISSN 1929-2112

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30 8 Glass Art 10 Smudge Art

FEATURES

Checking in with the Lethbridge Society of Glass Artisans

A business profile about an exciting new art studio for all ages

14 Xeriscaping

The Oldman Watershed Council provides some helpful tips on creating a low maintenance and eco-friendly yard

18 Book Review - To & From Gigs

Herb Hicks, local musician, teacher and author, shares this personal story of his journey and life lessons along the way

10

26 Africa

Fay Braden tells us the story of her daughter’s trip to an African orphanage

28 The Grizzly Truth

An interview with Charlie Russell, documentary film maker, naturalist and author, reveals what he discovered living with the grizzlies in Russia

DEPARTMENTS

19 Photographer’s Eye 32 Bits & Pieces 33 Our Pets 20 Health Matters

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From The Publisher By now, we are all settled into the new year and I would imagine most of us are looking for spring to arrive sooner than later after this lengthy winter!

Jean Van Kleek To help you get in the mood for spring, this Photography: Jen Alston issue we have included articles on xeriscaping your garden and yard, an interesting way to plant potatoes with limited space, and what types of plants are the most drought resistant for our region.

On the artistic side of things, we visit a new art studio called “Smudge”.

Smudge opened its doors a few months ago and has received rave reviews on classes for adults and children both. The philosophy of the studio is to give everyone the chance to cut loose and be creative.

We also caught up with the Lethbridge Society of Glass Artisans, who invite those interested to come to their semi-annual show and sale.

Herb Hicks is a well-known local musician and teacher who recently published a book called “To & From Gigs”. Very interesting autobiography about his journey through the decades while travelling “on the road” and in the armed forces.

It was an absolute pleasure to meet with Charlie Russell, naturalist, documentary film maker and author who lives in Waterton. Charlie spent ten years living with grizzly bears in Russia. This is a man who truly has a passion for his life work.

We have these stories and more to share with you about the people in your community.

Enjoy!

Volume 3 • Issue 2 • March - April 2014

www.readquirk.com Published bi-monthly in Lethbridge by

SHABELLA PUBLISHING

1010 - 10th Ave. N., Lethbridge, T1H 1J8 403.382.7240 Printed by Warwick Printing, Lethbridge, AB. Publisher Jean Van Kleek jean@readquirk.com Photographers Chris Yauck Ginger Malacko Leta Pezderic Jean Van Kleek Jocelin Braden Cover Photo Charlie Russell in Kamchatka, Russia Contributing Writers Fay Braden Ginger Malacko Priscilla Peltier Michelle Zandstra Chris Yauck Jean Van Kleek Judi Frizzle-Stowell Sue Thomas Oldman Watershed Council Kathy Schwartz Jane Harris-Zsovan General Inquiries info@readquirk.com Advertising Inquiries jean@readquirk.com 403.382.7240 LEGAL INFORMATION

New to The Community? Expecting a Baby?

Getting Married?

New Business or New Manager?

CALL TODAY

For Your Free Gifts and Information

(403) 327-3764

www.welcomewagon.ca Quirk - 4

All information provided in this magazine is accurate and correct to the best of the knowledge of Quirk Magazine and Shabella Publishing, and current at the time of publishing. Quirk Magazine and Shabella Publishing are not responsible and will not be liable for damages whatsoever arising out of or in connection with the use of the information contained herein, or through any unauthorized use or reproduction of such information, even if the publication has been advertised of the possibility of these damages. The information in this magazine applies to Canada oinly and may not be appropriate or correct outside of Canada.

The magazine is not responsible in any way for the content provided by contributing writers and/or advertisers or other third parties who advertise or provide content for this magazine. Unless indicated otherwise, all opinions, advice, information and resources offered or made available in this magazine are solely those of third parties who advertise or provide content for this magazine. This magazine and its content do not necessarily reflect the views of Shabella Publishing or its employees. No endorsement or approval of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services, including those available or offered through this magazine or any websites, is expressed or implied by Shabella Publishing or any related company or its officers and directors. Links to websites of third parties are meant for convenience only. The publisher does not review, endorse, approve or control and is not responsible for any such websites.

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THE ROAD IN BETWEEN

Quirk - 6

My Mind As I Now Know It

I seem to have accidentally discovered my own unique exercise plan; it’s called “Forgetfulness”.

It’s a plan that works best if you have a big house with lots of stairs.

illusive moment when I first thought of, what I can’t now remember.

Recently, I have figured out a little trick In my younger years, I could keep at least six to help me remember. things in my head at the same time, prioritizing If I run upstairs to get and re-organizing on the fly, as new things to do something and then were added they were synced in and everything can’t remember, I By Sue Thomas was precisely accomplished; done, done, done quickly run back downstairs and as soon as I reach the bottom, and done. bingo, memory restored! It works in Sometimes, the reverse direction as well! Which Even later in my forties, I was still pretty efficient. Although, I’ll just stand still, as you can see, is really excellent exercise?

I found that I could keep fewer eyes frantically things in my head, with the darting back and Now, I literally have to write help of a list, I was still pretty everything down as soon as I think of capable and organized; done forth in an effort check, done-check, done- to see inside my head, it. Lists, lists and more lists! This brings me too yesterday. I went to the check. to find that illusive store clutching that precious list in my Now in my fifties, my brain moment when I first hand. That morning having noted, that other things, I needed loses thoughts moments after I thought of, what I among toothpaste. Well, you can image my think them. It tells me “let’s do that next” and then when can’t now remember. surprise when I came home with deodorant instead of toothpaste, when “next” comes I have no idea, the list clearly read toothpaste. Thankfully, when could not even venture a guess, what it is I was going to do. I walk around the house, up and it comes to the use of these products, I’m still down the stairs, staring into closets and aware enough to know the difference, thus cupboards looking for a clue. Sometimes, I’ll just avoiding for now, the sticky toothpaste armpit stand still, eyes frantically darting back and forth and flowery fresh smile scenario that I see clearly in an effort to see inside my head, to find that awaiting me in my future.

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Antiques, Home Decor, Fine Fashions Quirk - 7

Checking in with the

Lethbridge Society of Glass Artisans

By Members of the LSGA

Stained glass window Secret Garden

Etching - Bob Marley

New members, Julia and Rosalie Case with their first stained glass creations Quirk - 8

People are generally most familiar with stained glass techniques that allow artists to create a variety of pieces such as windows, panels, suncatchers, lamps, boxes, and picture frames, but there are many other ways to work with glass. Fused glass artists melt layers of glass in a kiln to create objects such as plates, bowls, vases, sinks, jewelry, boxes, ornaments, and wall art. Another type of glasswork involves etching designs into glass with a sandblaster or chemicals. Other glass artists use a torch to heat glass rods, making glass beads and sculptures in a process known as lampworking. Glass blowers work with molten glass and shape it into various forms to create sculptures, bowls, and vases. Many artists will incorporate multiple techniques into a single work.

When looking at a stained glass window in a church, the pieces have often been painted (e.g. facial features), fused, and then pieced together using the traditional stained glass techniques.

Fused and Stained Glass Crowsnest Mountain

Lethbridge-area glass artists have been coming together to create art glass since the 1970â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, with the group becoming a registered not-for-profit society in 1990.

Lethbridge-area glass artists have been coming together to create art glass since the 1970â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, with the group becoming a registered not-for-profit society in 1990.

Originally called the Lethbridge Society of Stained Glass Artisans, the group recently changed its name to the Lethbridge Society of Glass Artisans (LSGA), in order to encompass all facets of glass art.

The LSGA membership is composed of beginners, veterans, hobbyists, enthusiasts, collectors and professional artists. Our members enjoy access to a studio complete with a light table, hand tools, diamond saws and grinders, a glass kiln and glass.

Members are also able participate in social events and exchange ideas and techniques at our monthly meetings, held at 3622 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 14th Ave N, on the 4th Saturday of each month from September to May. A glass purchasing co-op for members is also in the works.

Fused Glass Art - Neander-elk

LSGA is growing rapidly and looking forward to a bright future. To that end, the Society has been involved in the community offering talks and educational opportunities for school-age children. The society also offers classes through CASA on a variety of topics.

Check their website for upcoming classes: http://www.casalethbridge.ca/ On May 2nd and 3rd the LSGA, in conjunction with the Oldman River Potters Guild, invites you to their semi-annual show and sale at the Westminster Community Center (411 - 16 St N). For more information, or if you are interested in working with glass, please check out the LSGA website at www.lsga.ca, or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LethbridgeSociety OfGlassArtisans

Glass has been around for thousands of years.

Naturally-occurring volcanic obsidian glass was used by Stone Age people to make arrowheads and cutting tools. The earliest archaeological evidence of manmade glass dates back over 5000 years in Mesopotamia, as a glazing for clay and stone beads. One ancient "discovery" tale goes like this: a merchant ship laden with nitrum (ash blocks) was moored at the mouth of the Belus River.

The merchants were preparing a meal on the beach, and used the nitrum blocks to prop up the cooking pots. The hot nitrum fused with the sand on the shore and there flowed a stream of a new translucent liquid that today we know as glass.

Through innovation and experimentation glass became a mainstay of all civilizations and cultures, which remains true through the 21st century. For most people, colored or stained glass is most familiar in church windows; however, it is hard to find any modern architecture that doesn't incorporate glass. Functionality aside, glass has become a marvelous medium for artistic expression.

Fused Glass Bowl Love me

A Smudge

of Paint

By Ginger Malacko

Photos by Ginger Malacko

Smudge the ideal local spot for artistic exploration…and plain old fun.

My mom introduced me to the art of window shopping when I was a child and from then on, I was hooked. One glance and you can be intrigued, excited, horrified or inspired. Especially those shop windows that house tables and chairs and long counters lined with mysterious buckets and containers; the ones that seem to invite you in before you even know what the shop is all about. That’s how it was for Paije Ottoson who wandered across a studio in Calgary and was immediately entranced by the possibilities she saw through the glass. That one shop window reflected an ideology that Paije, a middle school art teacher, felt deeply and yearned to pass on to others, which is the astonishing truth that there is a little bit of an artist in all of us.

So Paije set out early last year, to create her own intriguing window scene right here in Lethbridge under the colorful banner ‘Smudge Art Studio’. And as a shop window connoisseur, I can say that she’ll succeed in capturing your attention. Light and airy, this is a place that can inspire adults and children alike, with open space, clean lines and symmetry, and rows of candy colored chairs. A long counter spans the

Quirk - 10

studio housing jugs of paint and a myriad of brushes. But even more alluring than all this is the room specially reserved for spills and spatters.

The idea behind Smudge Art Studio was never to discover the next Picasso living in our midst, but to provide the chance to everyone, despite natural ability or lack thereof, to cut loose and be creative, without fearing for the state of the walls and floor. The studio’s most popular event thus far is the raucously creative Pollock Party, where budding artists make their own version of a Jackson Pollock masterpiece as well as a massive group canvas.

It’s a big hit for kid’s parties as evidenced by the swirls and drips of every possible color and rows of small gloppy handprints on Paije’s walls. But Paije also recommends it as a non-traditional corporate party meant to grease the wheels of office creativity and camaraderie. Because really, there Paije Ottoson is something deliciously liberating

The idea behind Smudge Art Studio was never to discover the next Picasso living in our midst, but to provide the chance to everyone, despite natural ability or lack thereof, to cut loose and be creative, without fearing for the state of the walls and floor.

in making a big old mess whether you’re four or forty.

For those of you who have something more structured in mind than slinging paint, Paije also offers workshops in which you can study the masters and learn to re-create their technique in your own, personal tribute piece. Or you can explore some mixed media or learn some Art History. There are Pocket Pal Parties to introduce children to the art of sculpture, and Date Nights where you can bring a sweetheart, your best friend, or your mom. And Paije plans on adding to the studio’s repertoire as she builds a clientele, making Smudge the ideal local spot for artistic exploration…and plain old fun.

To Paije the grand magic of art lies in the process of getting your hands dirty and making something that never would have existed if was not for you being in that place and in that moment. It’s in the act of seeing the world, and yourself, a little differently. A shop window is usually meant to be a perfect representation of the space within, but the windows at Smudge give you a glimpse of a perfect opportunity to represent yourself. And every person, small or fully grown, who leaves the studio with paint under the fingernails and a smile, is just further proof of Paije’s philosophy: that every person can and should give art a try.

Classes Workshops Camps Parties Register for workshops at

www.smudgeart.ca

Where you can get a little messy and have a lot of fun!

1254 3 Ave S, Lethbridge Ph: (587) 425-2582 www.smudgeart.ca

Growing great gardens

By Jane Harris-Zsovan “Not many people have a job where they get to garden at work,” smiles Penny Takahashi (Renewable Resource Management ‘03), Aquaculture Technician in Lethbridge College’s Aquaculture Centre of Excellence. And although her speciality is aquaponics gardening – a fairly high-tech and environmentally friendly approach to growing food – many techniques she uses can be applied at home.

“Even people who live in high rises or have no outdoor decks can garden. You can do it in your home, backyard or on the deck,” says Takahashi. You can even garden in a greenhouse in the winter if you have a heat source and LED lights. !"!#!$#%&'()$&*#!*&+,**-.,&%$&!/0(1&*#,&,!$%,$*&2+!(*$&*0& germinate, while spinach can be trickier to coax into production. “I do well with root vegetables; beets and yellow onions grow well and radishes, too,” says Takahashi. She adds that advanced gardeners may enjoy experimenting with new types of plants or creating large-scale aquaponics projects to produce trout to eat along with their vegetables.

But for gardeners of all levels of experience, Takahashi suggests increasing your harvest by purchasing seeds from a .0//,3.%!+&1304,35& 36&*0&'()& seeds with a guaranteed germination rate of at least 75 per cent, she says, and check the date on the seed package to make sure they are not more than two years old.

Quirk - 12

Don’t kill those ladybugs in your garden, she adds. They kill aphids. Bio-controls, like ladybugs, which can be purchased online from retailers, are natural predators that attack pests.

Using natural predators cuts down on chemical use in your garden. You can also try complementary planting to keep bugs away. Seeding an eggplant among your beans distracts pesky thrips from munching on your legumes. Planting beans with corn enhances nitrogen content in the soil.

73&-$,&'$#&*0&8,3*%+%9,&60-3&.302$5&:++&60-&(,,)&!3,&!&.0-2+,&08& !;-!3%-/&2-/2$<&*40&2+!$*%.&*0*,$<&!()&!&8,4&2,*=$*03,&'$#&*0& 1,*&$*!3*,)5&>0-?++&'()&2+,(*6&08&%(*30)-.*036&),/0$&0(+%(,&!()& occasional classes at Lethbridge College and other institutions to give you more in-depth learning.

While aquaponic gardening conserves water by 3,.6.+%(1&%*&830/&60-3&2+!(*$&@!."&*0&*#,&'$#<&!++& gardeners can lower water bills by using rain barrels to catch water. There is a lot to learn when it comes to gardening. Fortunately, 60-?++&'()&%(803/!*%0(&0(+%(,<&!*& your local garden centre and from continuing education classes. “That’s the fun part,” she says, “researching and seeing what you can create.”

This article originally appeared in the Spring ABCD&%$$-,&08&E%),3&F03%90($<&G,*#@3%)1,& H0++,1,?$&/!1!9%(,5& 0&3,!)&/03,&!3*%.+,$& 830/&*#,&/!1!9%(,<&4#%.#&%$&2-@+%$#,)&*#3,,& *%/,$&!&6,!3<&10&*0&4%),3#03%90($5.!5

Photo by Rob Olson

Four Simple Steps

to Growing Potatoes

IN A BARREL

Container gardening isn't only for savvy urban gardeners or those with limited space to grow, it can also be for gardeners who want to maximize their yields in a controlled environment. Not only does growing potatoes in a barrel reduce the amount of weeding and exposure to pests and fungi, you don't even have to risk shovel-damage to the tender potatoes by digging them out of the ground when they're done, just tip the container over!

1. Select and prepare a container You'll need to pick out a container such as a 50gallon trash barrel or one of those half whiskey barrel planters. Alternatively, you can buy used food-grade barrels or commercially-available potato planters.

Just about any 2 to 3-foot tall container will work, but be sure to select a container that either already has holes in it, or is okay to cut holes in. Next you'll want to clean your container with a mild bleach solution to get out any of the nasties that have been lingering in there. If you don't want to use bleach, you can make a bleach alternative to use instead.

Good drainage is critical for the cultivation of healthy potatoes so you'll want to cut or drill a series of large drainage holes in the bottom and bottom sides of your container. Alternatively, you can cut out the bottom altogether and place it on a well-drained surface like your garden bed.

2. choose a variety and plant potatoes Seed potatoes can usually be found at nurseries early in the growing season, but you should only have to buy them once. If you can, “chit” or sprout your potatoes before planting them by setting them out in an egg carton, the side with the most buds facing up, and putting them in a cool light room out of direct sunlight to sprout. Putting the tubers in an open paper bag can have this same effect.

a planting mix with a peat moss-like soil amendment like this product made from repurposed coconut husks doing so will keep the soil from becoming too compacted and help it to store moisture for the roots.

Next, add some seed potatoes on the layer of soil, making certain to leave plenty of space between each cube. You can use the whole potato but I like to cut the potatoes into 1 to 2-inch cubes for planting. Loosely backfill the potatoes with another 6 inches of your soil and compost mix and water to dampen soil. Keep the soil damp at all times but be careful not to overwater.

3. add more soil 4. harvest the potatoes Fill in the bottom of your container with about 6 inches of loose planting mix and compost. You'll want to use

When they have about 6 to 8 inches of foliage, add another layer of your soilcompost mix covering about one-half to three-quarters of the visible stems and foliage. Repeat this process of allowing the sprouts to grow and then covering the sprouts and moistening the soil as the plants grow up toward the top of the barrel.

After about 10 weeks or until the plants flower and start to yellow, the potatoes should be ready to harvest.

Carefully dig down with your hands to inspect the top-most layer. After you've confirmed your suspicions, dump the barrel out on a tarp and inspect your bounty.

other tips to grow bushels of barrel potatoes

• After the first harvest, keep a few potatoes to use as seed potatoes next year.

• Bush beans are a great companion plant for potatoes.

• Instead of using soil, try growing potatoes in sawdust.

• Experiment with different containers, seed potatoes and watering regimes.

Quirk - 13

XERISCAPE Your Yard!

By OWC • Photos by Leta Pezderic

“Xeri- WHAT?!” You might ask …

Another word for Xeriscape is “eco-landscaping”. “Xeriscape” comes from the Greek word “xeros” meaning dry, and “scape”, meaning a kind of view or scene. You might take Xeriscape landscaping to imply a dry and uninteresting garden, however in practice, quite the opposite is true!

This way of gardening reduces waste, fertilizer and chemical needs.

Moreover, it conserves water and saves money through reduced energy and yard maintenance costs. It even reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that contribute to climate change.

Did you know that for most of North America, over 50% of residential water used is applied to landscape and lawns? Xeriscape can reduce landscape water use by 50 - 75%. It also requires less maintenance. The reason we have been using fertilizers and pesticides – practically a staple in every homeowner’s garden shed – is that we have introduced species that are not native to the area.

Choosing from our beautiful prairie varieties eliminates the need for chemical supplements.

Sufficient nutrients are provided by healthy organic soil.

By Xeriscaping your yard, your property value will increase, plus initial costs are offset by the low maintenance required. You won’t need gas for your mower or electricity for your weed whipper if you maintain only small turf areas which can be cared for with a soundless reel mower. Xeriscaping makes it easy on the environment and your pocketbook. Using natural prairie plants, shrubs and trees also offers a familiar and diverse habitat for local wildlife. You’ll be amazed at the variety of butterflies, birds and other wildlife that will appear as your garden develops.

Perhaps you have thought about re-designing your green spaces and would like to include ways of conserving water. Or maybe you’d like to learn about which plants thrive best in our semi-arid climate.

You needn’t start from scratch. The Oldman Watershed Council has experts who are eager to help you plan for spring - and a better garden. Xeriscapes do not have a single look - almost any landscaping style can be achieved and can be applied to all or part of a yard.

Visit Our Website: www.prairieurbangarden.ca

Our website offers information on everything you need to know about Xeriscaping!

We’re especially proud of our “50 Best Plants for Prairie Urban Gardens in Southern Alberta” booklet, produced by local plant expert - Steve MacRae. The top 10 best plants for Southern Alberta in 5 categories are highlighted (perennial flowers, trees, shrubs, grasses and groundcovers). You can download it for free off the website or contact us to purchase a copy ($2 each).

JOIN US!! TOUR LOCAL XERISCAPED GARDENS IN LETHBRIDGE

FREE Self-Guided Garden Tour • Saturday, June 21st Starts at Helen Schuler Nature Centre

Quirk - 14

Presentations by: Local plant expert Steve MacRae Details and Registration to follow soon at: www.oldmanbasin.org or contact: Leta Pezderic, OWC Program Coordinator at 403-381-5801 or leta@oldmanbasin.org

Quirk - 15

DROUGHT TOLERANT

Plants

Native Species Southern Alberta Prairie Flowers

Prairie Smoke Golden Alexanders Butterfly Weed Canada Milk Vetch Blazing Star Wild Bergamot

Purple Prairie Clover Yellow Coneflower Black-eyed Susan Blue Vervain Culver’s Root Ox-eye

Sideoats Gama Crested June grass Prairie Dropseed Big Bluestem Little Bluestem Canada Wild Rye

Switchgrass Indian Grass Tufted Hair Sweetgrass Alpine Bluegrass Green Needle Grass

Saskatoon Berry New Jersey Tea Grey Dogwood Fragrant Sumac Early Wild Rose Meadowsweet

Silverweed Dwarf Birch Snowberry Fringed Sage Sagebrush Bog Cranberry

Prairie Grasses

Prairie Shrubs

Drought Resistant Plants Perennials

Arizona columbine Artemisias Asters Baby’s Breath Blue Pineleaf Beardtongue Columbine

Bedding Plants

Gomphrena Clarkia Wild Rose African Daisy Cosmos Ice Plant

Trees & Shrubs

Caragana Dogwood Bur Oak Hackberry Pine Ninebark Quirk - 16

Coreopsis Delphinium Echinacea Gaillardia Iris Lamb’s Ears Portulaca Scaevola Poppy Nierembergia Gazania Lotus Vine

Potentilla Sumac Currant Cinquefoil Honey Locust Silver Buffaloberry

8 Ways

TO GET YOUR Home Ready for

g n i r Sp

by Georgie Erickson

1. Change Outdoor Bulbs

5. Prune and Mulch

Clean all light fixtures, and replace burnt-out bulbs with energysaving CFL bulbs.

Prune dead branches, trim back overgrown shrubbery and remove any obstructive plantings. Spread mulch or bark around trees, shrubs and flowers for a weed-free, well-kept look.

2. Give Your Door Some Love Restore the luster of your door by polishing the hinges and knobs with Nevr-Dull Wadding Polish. Paint or stain the door with a color that stands out, yet also complements the trim and siding. Put out a clean, new welcome mat -- and make sure the doorbell works.

3. Repair the Walkway Snow and cold can wreak havoc on your walkway. With warmer weather approaching, take this time to patch cracks and replace loose bricks and pavers. Rent a power washer or purchase a chemical treatment to clean up embedded stains in concrete, stone or asphalt.

4. Plant Foliage and Shrubbery Strategically placed plants can conceal unattractive aspects of your house or yard. Place large pots or hanging baskets around the stoop or porch. Bushes or hedges can hide air-conditioning units or propane tanks, and flower beds and window boxes will stylize a stark facade.

6. Freshen Up Furniture Spray a fresh coat of paint on furniture and replace the cushions.

Fill an empty spot on the porch or stoop with a modern bench or porch swing. And get your outdoor space ready for summer!

7. Keep it Clean Sweep the sidewalk and stoop, clear away cobwebs, tighten wobbly railings, and repaint posts and supports.

8. Clear Gutters This can save you a lot of money on repair costs. Inspect your downspouts and gutters just before the spring rains start to be sure theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re clear of leaves, tree limbs and other debris that might cause problems later on. Clogging usually occurs at the elbow in a drainage system, where the downspout connects to the gutter.

Since this elbow is relatively easy to remove, take it off and inspect for clogging.

Quirk - 17

TO AND FROM GIGS

CHALLENGES, CHOICES, CHANCES, CHANGES Author: Herb Hicks

By Jean Van Kleek

Changes sometimes are a way of reality grabbing our attention toward self-realization To and From Gigs, penned by Herb Hicks, is an interestingly woven autobiography.

The book takes you on his life journey thus far, both inside and out, through a series of experiences geographically and emotionally. This North Dakota born musician, artist and teacher has travelled the world, absorbing the human experience and becoming a student of life. Herb Hicks takes us from the beginning at home as a child in the 30’s and 40’s, then to his adventures in life and work, including a stint in the air force. The book chronicles many cultural and political changes throughout the decades, especially the changes with Herb’s first love… music. This is very poignant, as the music of each decade reflects the world it resides in politically and culturally.

This novel shares the naivety of youth, the subsequent search for fulfillment, finding out what success really is, and finding your place and your beliefs on this planet. The story is Herb’s unique adventure, but the message is universal. Herb writes “I’ve had some chance of a lifetime opportunities. At times, I’d grab the brass ring; other times I’d miss by a mile.

Life’s journey is a gamble and a blueprint-and every degree in between. Changes sometimes are a way of reality grabbing our attention toward self-realization.”

The journey is one we all experience, each with a unique blank canvas we begin with. Herb speaks candidly and honestly about his experiences throughout the years. His canvas is colourful, celebrating love and family and the “Challenges, Choices, Chances and Changes” along the way.

To find out more about Herb Hicks or to order a copy of his book go to: www.toandfromgigs.com Herb Hicks earned a bachelor of fine arts from the Minneapolis School of Art and a master of fine arts from the University of CaliforniaSanta Barbara. After traveling the world, he now resides in Lethbridge, Alberta, where he is a professor emeritus with the art department at the University of Lethbridge. He also performs with several musical groups.

Quirk - 18

Herb Hicks

Lone Tree

Creeper Trail, Virgina Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark II

Lens: EF 16-35mm f/ 2.8L II USM Exposure: 1/500 sec; f/8; ISO 100

Frame Your Subject

In this first image, I used the surrounding trees and the fence to frame the lone tree in the field.

Create A Story With Your Images By moving forward up against the fence, I had captured an entirely new image.

Using the rule of thirds, I’ve created a story of how this lone tree is standing tall in the bare field; the clouds building ominously overhead.

It gives depth and purpose to the story I want to convey about resilience and strength.

In the next issue I will discuss how to give life to your images using photoshop...

HOW TO ENTER: Submit your Lethbridge or surrounding area photo in a jpeg format, 300 dpi resolution in black & white or colour. The winning photo will be published in the following issue of Quirk Magazine. There will be one 2014 winner chosen at the end of the year to receive a camera from Thriftway Pharmacy. We have modified the rules this year to include enhanced photos. This is because most photos are enhanced to a degree. The integrity of the photo must be maintained to qualify with no added elements besides what the picture originally contained.

Quirk Magazine retains the right to use all photos for promotional purposes.

Photo by Jason McCaig Winner of March’s Photo Contest

Entry Deadline March 31, 2014

702 - 13 St. N. LETHBRIDGE 403-327-0340 THRIFTWAY PHARMACY • Free delivery • Free pill packs • Extensive camera department Quirk - 19

Taking Control of Your IBS

HEALTH MATTERS The scene was enjoying lunch in a restaurant with friends from out of town. Half way through lunch, my friend proceeds to make her way to the washroom and spending the next 30 minutes there experiencing extreme abdominal cramping. I was astonished to hear that this was a very common thing for her.

In this article, I will be discussing a major health concern for many people here in Canada called Irritable Bowel Syndrome (I.B.S.). It is a very common gastrointestinal disorder and is generally associated with a reduced quality of life.

Be knowledgeable:

IBS is a symptom-based diagnosis characterized by chronic abdominal pain, bloating and alteration of bowel habits.

Diarrhea or constipation may predominate, or they may alternate. Some people have mild symptoms, while others have chronic symptoms that can be disabling and the symptoms vary from person to person which include: diarrhea and/or constipation, abdominal pain, mucus in stool, bowel urgency/incontinence, bloating, depression and anxiety.

Parasites, candida, infectious diarrhea, hormone fluctuations and lactose intolerance should be ruled out before a diagnosis of IBS is made. There is evidence that food sensitivities and allergies may play a role in IBS, as they are found in up to 1/3 of those afflicted. The most common allergens are dairy and grains (especially wheat & corn).

And while I primarily work with and test for food sensitivities, it is apparent that I.B.S. is on the rise. It is among the most common gastrointestinal disorder I see in my clinic after food intolerances.

Other causes of I.B.S. are stress, infection, inadequate enzyme production and an imbalance of intestinal Flora to name a few....

Provide the required nutrients for your intestines:

Many health practitioners believe that health begins in the gut. In my clinic, I share this belief. Poor digestive health contributes to many chronic diseases and day-to-day health ailments.

Quirk - 20

There is evidence that food sensitivities and allergies may play a role in IBS, as they are found in up to 1/3 of those afflicted.

With regard to diet, the majority of health care practitioners will advise IBS patients to increase their intake of dietary fibre, since fibre supports bowel regularity and overall gastrointestinal health. However, adding more fibre to the diet should be done gradually in order to avoid aggravating IBS symptoms and patients may wish to avoid fibres made from wheat bran due to the high allergy potential of wheat.

Supplement with a plant-derived enzyme containing protease, amylase and lipase. If stomach acids are low, you may wish to choose an enzyme with added hydrochloric acid. One common cause of impaired digestive health is an age-related decline in digestive enzymes needed to extract nutrients from the foods we eat. Without these crucial enzymes food passes through the gastrointestinal tract without yielding its beneficial nutrients and the result is poor nutritional status, which can contribute to numerous disease processes.

Maintaining beneficial flora will be important.

Probiotics are live microorganisms, usually bacteria, that are similar to microorganisms normally found in the GI tract. Studies have found that when taken in large enough amounts, probiotics improve symptoms of I.B.S. Supplement with at least 6 billion active cultures and health-promoting bacteria, including Bifidobacteria, Lactobacilli and Lactococcus cultures. It should contain a minimum of 6 billion cultures.

Supplement with Omega-3 oils from fish and flax, as well as Omega 6 to help lubricate the bowel and reduce intestinal inflammation.

Priscilla Peltier is a natural health care practitioner at Nutterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s who writes on health & nutrition and has a passion for the latest research in natural health & diet.

Use the right fibre:

Fibre can be very beneficial for those with I.B.S. However, it depends on which type of I.B.S you have. There are three main types: Type C in which the prominent symptom is Constipation; Type D in which the prominent symptom is Diarrhea; and Type C that Alternates between diarrhea and constipation.

Soluble fibre is the single greatest dietary remedy for preventing Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Soluble fibre soothes and regulates the digestive tract, stabilizes the intestinal contractions, and normalizes bowel function from either extreme.

I.B.S with Constipation: Supplement with a balance of both soluble and insoluble fibres.

Look for a flax-based fibre blend and remember to increase fibre intake gradually.

Oatmeal and barley are other examples of soluble fibre.

I.B.S. with Diarrhea: Supplement fibre to add bulk to the diet and promote healthy, wellformed stools.

Drink plenty of water. You may also try an infusion of water into the colon; this is called colon hydrotherapy. Yoga, massage therapy and chiropractic manipulation can also be helpful. Visit your health care practitioner to determine your best protocol.

My goal is that this article will keep you informed and inspire you to better health.

Until next time, I wish you MAKE HEALTH A HABIT...

Priscilla Peltier, C.H., C.N.C., C. Irid., R.BIE Herbalist, Nutrition Consultant, Iridoligist, and Registered BioEnergetics Practitioner priscilla.eyes@shaw.ca www.eyecuhealthy.net 403.329.3100 (Office) 403.942.5064 (Fax)

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Dear Retailer: Renew Life Canada Inc. will reimburse the full value of this coupon on the purchase of the product specified. Other applications may constitute fraud. Applications for reimbursement received af ter 6 months from the expiry date, as indicated below, will not be accepted. Failure to send in, on request, that suf ficient stock was purchased in the previous 90 days to cover the coupons will void coupons. Coupons submit ted become the property of Renew Life Canada Inc. Reimbursement will be made only to the retail distributor who redeemed the coupon. For redemption, mail to: !"!#$%&'!$()")*)$+$,$-$./01$23456$7!48&9!$ 3)*$:);5$+$<)=8&>>!?$<2$+$%@A$.B0 *Limit one coupon per purchase. Coupon expires April 30th, 2014.

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Go to our website to find more details on these revolutionary new products. www.hothealth.ca Quirk - 22

Fuzzy

Balls

A few years ago, I bought a set of fleece sheets. At that time they were new on the market and hard to find. They were incredible!

Once you free the fuzzy balls for good you open the door to something better, something that was meant for you, something you never would have found without letting go.

Like sleeping in a cocoon with just the right amount of softness, and very comforting.

One problem though. They pilled. They pilled a LOT. I kept thinking after each wash there were definitely less little fuzzy balls all over my house. That was all in my mind. There weren't less, there were actually more. I loved these sheets and no one, including myself, was going to tell me there was still a problem. Denial had firmly set in. Because without denial, I would have lost my comfort zone, my fuzzy night time sanctuary.

One day the light finally came on. I looked around and realized there was still a plethora of fuzzy balls. They had become too big to ignore.

I asked myself how many more times I wanted to vacuum them up, pull them off my clothes and pluck them off the dogs before I would stop pretending they weren't there.

I decided that day to look at reality. They weren't going away, no matter how much I liked the sheets. There are some things you just can't change. I took them off the bed in one brave fell swoop and threw them out. I didn't even entertain the idea of giving them to a second hand store and saddling someone else with "fuzzy ball syndrome".

By Jean Van Kleek

At first it was difficult. I bought some cotton sheets that fit the bed, but didn't fit me... not like my fuzzy sheets. Over time I let it go and freed myself from thinking about them. You see, the emotional part of letting go takes a little longer than the physical.

Then one day while shopping, when I least expected it... lo and behold, out of the corner of my eye, I saw a package of fleece sheets.

They turned out to be softer, better and don't pill at all! We need to learn to let go of the things that aren't working for us anymore. No matter how comfortable something has become, it is not always best for us. When the fuzzy balls become piled higher than the joy a relationship or work provides, it's time for change.

Once you free the fuzzy balls for good you open the door to something better, something that was meant for you, something you never would have found without letting go. Life is fluid. Change isn't a bad thing. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a part of growth and realizing what isn't serving you well. We all need to look for the fuzzy balls in our lives. Don't hang onto anything that isn't bringing you the happiness and joy you deserve.

Make room in your world for exciting adventures to come... and trust that they will.

Bin Cao & Qiao Rong Chen

golden sushi

advertorial

There is a new â&#x20AC;&#x153;kid in townâ&#x20AC;? joining the selection of fine venues in Lethbridge to please our ever hungry palates.

Seafood Mix Sushi

Quirk - 24

If a buffet is not your style, or you already have an idea of what you want for your meal, the restaurant also offers full order dishes and dinner sets for 2-6 people.

Take-out and delivery are available as well.

The golden sushi opened its doors in late December of 2013. While serving Chinese or Japanese food and offering a buffet are nothing out of the ordinary, this is the first restaurant that offers both types of food in a unique buffet style.

Bin Cao is an Ontario native who helped his brother open this model of restaurant three years ago in Toronto. After working with his brother and helping make the first restaurant become a success, Bin set his sights on Lethbridge to launch the same style of restaurant here.

The fun comes when you are also able to choose from any of their over 200 items on the Japanese menu.

Situated in the “old York” on 13th street north, the golden sushi provides an all you can eat steam table buffet with a variety of Chinese dishes, such as Mango Chicken, Beef & Broccoli, Spring Rolls, Honey Garlic Ribs and Dim Sum. The items included in the Chinese buffet change daily, and offer an excellent selection.

The fun comes when you are also able to choose from any of their over 200 items on the Japanese menu. The menu is laminated and you are given a marker to check off each item you would like to order. These

Salt & Pepper Shrimp

California Rolls

items come in categories of appetizers, salads, udon soup & rice, teriyaki, sushi, handrolls, sashimi and over 30 regular and special rolls, vegetarian rolls and sushi pizza choices. You then give the server the menu back with your selections marked and your custom order will be prepared. The custom orders from the buffet menu are not full orders, but you can re-order any item you choose through the course of your meal. It’s a great way to try a variety of items you may not have tasted before, mix and match and share with your friends, as well as order more of your new found favourites.

If a buffet is not your style, or you already have an idea of what you want for your meal, the restaurant also offers full order dishes and dinner sets for 2-6 people. Take-out and delivery are available as well.

Bin and his staff invite you to join them and experience golden sushi.

They are excited to be a part of the community and look forward to serving you.

golden sushi Black Bean Mussels

A l l Yo u C a n E a t 265 13 Street North • 587.425.4653

Mon-Thursday & Sunday 11am-10pm • Friday-Saturday 11am-10:30pm

www.goldensushi.ca

Quirk - 25

Africa

JOURNEY TO

…THROUGH A MOTHER’S EYES

By Fay Braden

It seems like so long ago that our youngest daughter, Jocelin, and her friend Courtney left on an adventure to Amani Baby Cottage, an orphanage in Jinja, Uganda, Africa. As a mother, the idea filled me with trepidation. Courtney’s parents had contacts at the orphanage and had been there themselves. Their confidence the girls would be in a safe compound reassured me, slightly . Looking back, I’m not really sure when their plan began to take shape, but now I realize that her decision to go was never in my hands. The girls did every bit of preparation on their own. They spoke with a travel agent to make all the flight arrangements and got advice.

They obtained all the shots and medications they needed. They ensured their passports were in order and they paid for the trip themselves. They organized everything. Their desire to volunteer at Amani became a reality just a few months after high school graduation.

Courtney & Jocelin Quirk - 26

They arrived at the Entebbe International Airport late into the night. The arrivals side of the airport is on African soil and is barely a landmark represented by two walls, a counter and dirt floors. Yet everyone guarding it, including young boys, carried a machine gun. They made their way through immigration and outside to a roped-off area. A local gentleman was standing with a cardboard sign with Amani hand-written in crayon.

They went to him and asked if he was looking for them. He spoke no English, but gestured to the sign and to them.

Soon they were off into the dark, in a small car with a man they didn’t know.

From the airport they drove through Kampala and then on to Jinja. Exhausted from their day of travelling, the girls

nodded off, waking at one point as an armed guard pressed his head and machine gun into the vehicle. He demanded their passports and after paying a fee, the passports were returned and they carried on. They finally managed to arrive safely at their destination.

The Amani Baby Cottage is run by Danyne Randolph Bharj.

It was her and her husband’s residence where the girls lived for the next two months. Amani is located a short walk outside of the town of Jinja. They shared meals with the family and were included in outings and sight-seeing trips. And they were indeed safe, as safe as you can be in a foreign land with a fluid political climate where you are referred to as milky.

Another concern was their health. Would they be protected against HIV and AIDS? Many of the babies come to the orphanage because their mothers had died of AIDS. Many

were fine – but some were very ill and required special care. To say the health care facilities in Jinja were less than adequate would be a gross understatement. Jocelin tells me that one time, she and Courtney had to take the van to town themselves so they could take a seriously ill baby to a doctor. As a mother, this seems unfathomable.

Their day-to-day chores included bathing and feeding the babies; providing helping hands. Their most joyful task was playing with the babies. It didn’t take long for Jocelin to bond with a little boy named Reese. She loved him and he adored her. She called him her boyfriend. As we were going through pictures, it’s clear she still thinks of him; misses him. The goal of Amani Baby Cottage is to provide loving care to orphaned babies and to facilitate adoptions. We recently discovered that her baby Reese found a permanent loving home with a family in California.

Going to market was always an experience. During one trip, a butcher became enraged because one of the girls in their group was video-taping his work.

He spun on them with a bloody clever raised, yelling at them in Swahili. It was only the quick intervention of the market manager and the calm discussion with a male member of their group that settled things down.

Towards the end of their stay, Jocelin and Courtney decided to take a 4 day Safari camping trip. They had a driver, a guide and a man with a gun to protect them. The sights and the animals they saw were beyond their expectations.

Watching elephants drink from the lake only a stone’s throw from your chair by the fire – unbelievable. Seeing giraffes, water buffalo, rhinos, hippos and lions was beyond anything most of us will ever experience.

I recently came across a 2008 calendar. October 1st is circled. It would be about 2 and a half months before I would see my baby again. Facebook became my friend. I knew that if nothing else she would connect there. I checked it often, reassured with every post that she was ok. Power was a luxury at Amani as was computer time, so her emails were few. I saved them all.

Jocelin refers to her TIA moments, “This is Africa”. The first was shortly after they arrived and were driving through Entebbe. Tikki torches, house, house, burning garbage, men sitting on the street, tikki torch…house, house, house. TIA. Looking back, she tells me with conviction, that while the initial desire was to go to Africa and help, she realizes now that it was a very selfish decision. In two months, you make very little impact beyond providing helping hands.

The change that occurs is not with the babies, it’s within you and by extension, those who hear your story.

Seeing giraffes, water buffalo, rhinos, hippos and lions was beyond anything most of us will ever experience.

Charlie Russell Shares The “Grizzly Truth”

By Jean Van Kleek

I recently had the opportunity to speak with Charlie Russell, world renowned naturalist and author, who spent over 10 years living with grizzly bears in Kamchatka, Russia. Charlie was in Lethbridge February 8th to give a presentation at the University of Lethbridge. To prepare myself, I read his biography and several fascinating articles about him prior to our visit. I wondered what Charlie ‘the man” would be like in person. Upon meeting with him, I was pleasantly surprised by his candor, sense of humour, sense of purpose and complete lack of ego. This is a man who was never looking for notoriety, he simply wanted to understand bears and our relationship with them. This passion led him on a journey that has spanned over 50 years and continues still.

Charlie walking with C&B

them into financing a film. The film was a big adventure for Charlie, they travelled all over the Yukon, Alaska and the coast of British Columbia to find grizzlies living in the wild.

It was during this time Charlie came to see bears as peaceloving animals who just wanted to get along. He found the perception of this animal being ferocious and aggressive by nature was simply untrue.

Charlie embarked on a mission to answer two main questions. Can we develop a relationship with bears based on trust, rather than fear? Are bears inherently unpredictable and will turn on you and kill you for no reason?

Fly Fishing

Charlie Russell grew up on a ranch just outside of Waterton Lakes National Park. His father was famed outfitter and guide Andy Russell. Charlie and his brothers worked with their father taking clients out on horseback through the wilderness area around their home for weeks at a time. Andy wanted to start documenting some of their expeditions on film, and had his sons learn how to use a movie camera. He then took these films on the lecture circuit. Over time, oil and gas exploration in the area forced Charlie’s father out of business as an outfitter. He decided to approach one of his outfitting clients who was on the board of the New York Zoological Society and talked

To answer these questions and research bears who had not been affected by human behaviors, Charlie found himself in Kamchatka, Russia. Finding this location was the culmination of Charlie’s tenacity and drive to arrive at the perfect area to expand on his hypotheses.

What Charlie learned from his experience is that grizzly bears, even adult males, are not unpredictable, and losing their fear of humans does not make them dangerous. Charlie says ‘I’ve lived with hundreds of bears for more than ten years and no bear ever once turned on me, threatened me, or harmed me in any way. I was often within a few feet of them, with my back to them, and they’d had ample opportunity

What Charlie learned from his experience is that grizzly bears, even adult males, are not unpredictable, and losing their fear of humans does not make them dangerous.

to hurt me, but they hadn’t. Far from being unpredictable, they’d been trustworthy.”

Charlie’s story of his adventures in Kamchatka was documented in an award winning film called “The Edge of Eden… Living With Grizzlies”. This is a breathtaking film that captures the beauty of the Kamchatka scenery, and gives us an up close and personal opportunity to share Charlie’s relationship with the grizzly.

Singing Opera

Talking about trust

to overcome whatever problem or shortage we face. Ironically, we may be brought down by running out of money. Sure we can keep printing it, but no one will trust it; they won’t know what it’s worth because it’s not worth anything. Once people can’t buy Sitting Bear anything, the whole house of cards collapses. Maybe then people will see that we have to base our lives our economy on things that have intrinsic value like food, and shelter, and community. Maybe then we will remember our proper place in nature. This is something I learned from the bears.

At 71, Charlie continues to tell his story on the lecture circuit. The common thread throughout his talks is that we need to get back to nature and balance and we especially don’t need to fear what we don’t know about the wilderness and the animals who share our surroundings. We are all in this together, and need to create a world where we co-exist peacefully.

One of the factors affecting Charlie’s decision to eventually return to Canada was that he realized everything he learned over the ten year project convinced him that what we have is not a bear problem, but a human problem. He decided to return home to Canada to try to convince the humans of what he had learned. Charlie adds,“ Here in Canada, I live right next to a national park and it makes me crazy to see how the bears are managed”.

Here are some comments from Charlie during an interview by “The Moon Magazine”: It’s true; we humans are on a collision course with most of nature, not just bears. We think we’re so special that we can disregard the laws of nature. We’re playing with fire this very moment. If we don’t pay attention to our limitations, to how much we can take from the world, we’re going to destroy ourselves. Nature will recover; but we won’t; or at least, a lot of us won’t.

We’ve created an economic system that requires continuous growth to survive. We created that system because we all want to be rich. It worked for a while, but it’s not working anymore. The reason is, nothing in nature grows forever. It gets to a certain point and it either creates sustainability, or it dies off. It exhausts its food supply; it destroys its host; it consumes all the oxygen; it pollutes its own ecosystem. We think we’re so clever, we can always invent something

t abou o e r mo ll or t o to: ead To r ie Russe books g com rl d s.

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arlie h c . ww w or d

Quirk - 29

RECIPES

Spanglish Sandwich with Easy Oven Fries

By Judi Frizzle-Stowell

A BLT elevated to new levels of deliciousness by a renowned chef, for a movie chef! Does it get any better?

An Adam Sandler flick overflowing with lots of quirky characters, superbly portrayed, with some great lines.....a little drama, a little comedy and a big heart.

Spanglish is one of those movies that easily won me over and even had a pause, re-wind and play-it-again scene or two.

Like the after-work sandwich scene. Adam's character, a lovable and brilliant chef, comes home after a demanding day at his restaurant to relax with a beer and a late night nosh of chefly proportions.

Enter the Spanglish Sandwich. Mayhaps, sandwich perfection and exactly what we all like to imagine our favorite chefs chowing down on for a bedtime snack.

And, better still, something we can all make in our humble home kitchens.

It turns out renowned chef, Thomas Keller, was the culinary advisor for Adam's character for this movie. Yes, THE Thomas Keller, whose famed restaurant

The French Laundry in the Napa Valley is considered a landmark and touchstone for fresh California Cuisine. No wonder some claim this to be the best sandwich in the world.

There is a great little video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXAJAyLdUXU of both Thomas Keller and Adam Sandler on the set working through the sandwich.

I have a thing for BLT's anyway, so adding some creamy Monterey Jack cheese and an over-medium egg definitely worked for me. I'll have to make these again soon so I can ponder once again, if indeed, this is the best sandwich in the world.

I did up some Yukon Gold Oven Fries to go with our sandwiches. That worked, because I could dip a few of my fries in the comfortingly familiar, rich goodness of the yolk that had escaped the confines of the sandwich.

NO WONDER SOME CLAIM THIS TO BE

Quirk - 30

THE BEST SANDWICH IN THE WORLD

"My kitchen is a mystical place, a kind of temple for me.

It is a place where the surfaces seem to have significance, where the sounds and odors carry meaning that transfers from the past and bridges to the future."

Spanglish Sandwich

~ Pearl Bailey

For each sandwich: 3-4 thick slices bacon 2 slices Monterey Jack cheese 2 slices rustic country bread or sour dough, toasted (I toasted my sourdough under the broiler) 1 tablespoon mayonnaise 3-4 slices tomato 2 leaves butter lettuce or greenleaf 1 teaspoon butter 1 egg Salt and freshly ground pepper

Cook bacon until crisp, drain on paper towels, set aside. Place the slices of cheese on one piece of the toasted bread and place in a toaster oven or under the broiler to melt the cheese. Spread the other slice of toast with the mayonnaise and top with the lettuce, sliced tomato (with salt and pepper) and cooked bacon. In a non-stick skillet melt the butter over medium heat. Fry the egg, turning over briefly once the bottom is set and cooked. Keep the yolk runny.

Slide the finished egg, into the middle of the sandwich, on top of the bacon.

Salt and pepper that glorious mound of goodness and top with the other slice of toast, melted cheese side down. Place the sandwich on a plate and slice in half letting the yolk run down the sandwich. Oh yesss!

Easy Oven Fries Simple, delicious and as good for you as fries can be!

4 medium Yukon gold or other tasty potato, cut into 1/4 to 1/2 inch fries (no need to peel) Corn, peanut, sunflower or canola oil Sea or Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 1-2 tablespoons malt vinegar

Preheat oven to 400F degrees. Soak cut potato 'sticks' in a large bowl of ice cold water for 30 minutes to 3 hours or rinse the sliced potatoes with icy cold water to help remove some of the starch. Drain really well on a clean kitchen towel. Pat dry.

Place potatoes on a large, rimmed baking sheet and drizzle with enough oil to coat lightly. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Gently massage and toss the potato slices to distribute the oil and seasonings. Arrange in a single layer.

Depending on the thickness of your fries bake 30-40 minutes.

When just about cooked, with fries still in the oven, turn on the broiler for the last 3-4 to give the fries a bit of a toasty tan.

Watch carefully! Remove from oven, drizzle lightly with malt vinegar and serve hot.

*Follow Judi's blog at www.thelastwonton.typepad.com Quirk - 31

BITS & PIECES

You’re the author of your own book and it’s time for a dramatic plot twist.

- Leeza Gibbons

You should bring something into the world that wasn’t in the world before.

It doesn’t matter what that is.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a table or a film or gardening -everyone should create.

You should do something then sit back and say, “I did that.”

- Ricky Gervais

The quieter you become the more you can hear.

- Ram Dass

Quirk - 32

Locally owned since 1999 All breeds big and small Groomed by Master Groomer Karen McKay Nails are only $5!

Larger Breeds up to $10

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Doors open at 7:00 p.m.

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Quirk - 33

Healthy Choices for

Your Canine Friends I’ve experimented over time with a variety of ingredients for my dog food and treats to find the right combination of flavor, consistency and benefits that make dogs healthy and happy. Normally in Quirk Magazine, I share my recipes with you, but there isn’t room to explain why I use the ingredients I do. This issue I would like to share with you the reason I choose each of the ingredients, and what they can do for your dog’s overall health. We are all increasingly aware of the harmful additives in store bought foods, for both pets and humans. By making your own dog food and treats, you are ensuring that your pet is receiving exactly the nutrients you intended.

Below is a list of some of the ingredients I use regularly and what they can do to help maintain your dog’s optimal health.

By Michelle Zandstra

Liver:

Broccoli:

Liver is a nutrient-rich organ meat and should be used in moderation only. Liver provides protein, fat and vitamin A and is also a good source of copper, iron, niacin, phosphorus and zinc. It provides many B vitamins, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and essential amino acids.

Broccoli has been shown to have anti-cancer effects, aid in fighting infections, treat skin and heart problems and help metabolize drugs and excrete toxins. Broccoli is easily digestible and can be combined with chicken and rice when pet is feeling ill.

Apples: Apples contain fiber, vitamins A and C, omega-3 and -6, antioxidants, flavonoids, polyphenol and are great for dogs. However, the seeds contain a form of cyanide that could harm or kill your dog so never allow them eat seeds. Apples are high in sugar content and can contribute to weight gain in sedentary dogs.

Carrots: One of the tastier vegetables to my dogs, they are high in Vitamin A, B, C, D, E and K. Packed with potassium, calcium and iron, they are a low calorie, powerful antioxidant.

Green Beans: Green beans are a good source of vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre which improves digestion and absorption. Green beans are low in calories and filling making them a great treat and promoting weight loss for overweight dogs.

Chick peas & lentils:

Yams and sweet potatoes: Yams supply potent antioxidants to aid in healing, cancer prevention, and fighting the effects of aging. They provide Vitamins A, C and B6; 3, manganese, copper, and iron. They are a good source of dietary fiber to help with loose stools.

Lentils and Chick Peas (garbanzo beans) are great foods for dogs. They provide natural fibers and iron that help regulate blood sugar levels and burn fat as well as boost your pet's immune system.

Quinoa: One of the few vegetables sources of complete proteins, quinoa is also associated with preventing heart disease and cancer, as a potent antioxidant and reducing the risk of diabetes. Can be a useful source of protein for pets on vegetarian diets or with digestive issues.

Zucchini: Can increase the healthiness of your dog's skin/fur as well as help them lose weight.

Quirk - 34

All bran: Bran adds fiber which is necessary to help keep a dog’s gastrointestinal tract functioning properly.

Fiber keeps a dog feeling full longer which may be beneficial for dogs that need to lose weight.

Eggs: Eggs provide protein, riboflavin, and selenium-Loaded with protein and many other vitamins and minerals, eggs help produce a healthy coat.

Pumpkin:

Sardines:

Canned pumpkin can aid with diarrhea or constipation in dogs cats by adding fiber and replacing nutrients. Because of the fiber, pumpkin can help reduce weight.

Fresh, processed or canned pumpkin (not raw, with sugar, or the pie filling) is loaded with fiber and beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A which helps to fight infection. Too much Vitamin A is toxic to dogs so use in moderation.

Nature’s “Super Food”! Sardines have omega-3 fatty acids which bring wonderful health benefits including: brain health for developing puppies and aging seniors; heart disease prevention; cancer fighting ; regulating the immune system; and helps relieve joint stiffness and reducing inflammation in dogs with allergies, arthritis and auto-immune diseases.

Lamb: Lamb first became popular for dogs with allergies to chicken or other proteins. There is not a significant difference between the nutrients in lamb and beef. Lamb can be high in fat content so use sparingly if weight is an issue

Squash: Squash contains potassium and can be beneficial in maintaining heart health in dogs. Cooked or pureed squash provides nutrients, vitamin A and calcium which helps to keep healthy kidneys. A dog does not have the same ability that humans do to break down vegetables. Pureed or cooked vegetables are preferred.

Oatmeal: Oats are high in protein and soluble fiber that aids in keeping cholesterol levels low.

Oats also contain levels of iron, manganese, zinc, and B vitamins. Oats are naturally low in gluten and can be purchased gluten free. Oats benefit several body organs and systems, including: skin, nervous system, stomach, spleen, lungs, and the urinary and reproductive systems. They also contain the antitumor compound bsitosterol. Act as a digestive aid to calm the intestinal tract.

Salmon: Oily fishes such as salmon and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids help prevent skin problems and allergies, and aid in the treatment of arthritis and heart disease.

Coconut oil: There are many well established benefits of the use of virgin coconut oil with dogs for medicinal and dietary reasons. Coconut oil in the diet can potentially reduce cancer risks, improve digestion, and maintain healthy thyroid function. It is well known for glossy coats, healthy skin and the treatment of arthritis or other joint pain/stiffness. It also aids in maintaining balance with your dog’s metabolism rate assisting with weight control.

Bananas: High in soluble carbohydrates, bananas are an excellent source of energy. While low in sodium, they are rich in vitamin C and potassium while providing Anti-oxidants helpful to fur/skin.

Flax: Flax seed aids in making soft and shiny coats and healthy skin. In addition to fiber and omega fatty acids, flax seed contains alpha-linoleic acid, which can aid your dog's immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties which may help arthritis or other joint problems. Whole flax seed do not give the same benefits as ground. Always use ground seeds.

Blackstrap molasses: is full of iron and other minerals and nutrients that have a long and popular history as a natural means to treat ailments among dogs.

Cinnamon: Regulates blood sugar, and is an anti-inflammatory to help with joint problems or arthritis.

Peanut butter:

Peanut Butter is a good source of protein that contains healthy fats, vitamin B, niacin, and vitamin E. A long time favorite among dogs.

Honey: Honey has a long list of excellent things such as flavonoids, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folic acid, vitamins C, D, E, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, and a good source of anti-oxidants. It is easily digested and can help energize older dogs. Dogs with allergies can benefit from consuming raw, local honey daily. Honey is an excellent digestive aid as it contains live enzymes and amylase which facilitates digestion of carbohydrates.

Quirk - 35

THE

PET PHOTO

CONTEST

WINNER

"HENRYâ&#x20AC;?

BY CINDY MCKNIGHT Bi-monthly winner will be published in Quirk Magazine and receive a gift certificate from Photos must be original, caption and contact information of photographer provided.

Quirk Magazine, Shabella Publishing and sponsors retain the right to use winning photographs for promotional purposes.

email your photos to: info@readquirk.com

Be Connected...

Entry Deadline March 31, 2014

www.readquirk.com

Quirk - 36

LESSONS I’VE LEARNED

By Jean Van Kleek FROM MY DOGS

This lesson I learned from my dogs is about friendship.

had a special bark to let you know the other was in the garden. You just knew.

PJ, as I have mentioned in previous articles, became unpredictable after a few seizures over the years. I never knew when he might snap at me, my poodles… or for that matter, my friends. He never, ever snapped at Sophie or her puppy, who became her lifelong sidekick.

He protected them. And he always listened to Sophie.

She would “woo, woo, woo” at him.. not a bark, but a definite telling him something, and he would sit, take it and listen to her.

Their connection was deep, and even though they didn’t always see each other, there was an understanding they would be there for each other. Once an animal builds trust, they are very loyal and unwavering in their feelings and commitment. They don’t forget a relationship that has been built on love. You see this illustrated in stories of people and animals reunited after long lengths of time, there is instant recognition and a heartfelt sharing of warmth.

My dog, PJ, and his friend, Sophie, spent a lot of time together when they I’ve learned that we need to cherish these types of friendships with each other, just the way animals do, and realize that were very young and developed a special it is a gift. A gift without judgment, without Their connection was deep, and bond. Over the years they shared camping expectation, and a desire to make someone trips and lots of visits. They helped each even though they didn’t always else’s life better as a result of us being a part other if one was in trouble. One time Sophie of it. see each other, there was an barked and barked and wouldn’t quit until I went to the laundry room where PJ had understanding they would be Both PJ and Sophie passed this year, but I am become locked inside. Other times they were thankful for what they have given me and the there for each other. like kids and would tell on each other. They lessons they shared.

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