The Green Gazette - November /December 2015 - January 2016 Issue

5/ Giving without Measure: The Sharing Economy This past summer, I had the opportunity to visit with Brice Royer, a Vancouver man living with cancer, whose journey of transforming the pain and depression from his illness by embracing love and connection has been an inspiration to many. - By Lisa Bland 6/ Shopping Local with Kids If you happen to be on Vancouver Island this winter and bump into a friendly, economically fiscal ten year old at one of the local craft fairs, don‘t worry: he isn‘t lost or abandoned. That‘s my son, Kaeden, possibly the most spend conscious and simultaneously generous kid on the planet, who has learned to shop local. - by Jessica Kirby 12/ Beautiful Destruction Working at the Arts Centre a couple weeks ago, I was visited by Louis Helbig, Kristin Reimer, and their son Oscar. They were looking for a venue on extremely short notice to host a discussion about Louis‘ new book Beautiful Destruction. - by Brandon Hoffman 21/ The Art of Getting Sick: Becoming a Mindful and Empowered Patient It‘s not likely that many of us will escape winter season without getting the cold and/or flu at some point. - by Ciel Patenaude 27/ Choose Organic and Avoid Toxicity There exists a perception that eating organic is expensive and reserved for the elite, like it‘s some kind of fad or high-end hippie trend. Many don‘t realize, however, that those who choose organic simply don‘t want to consume toxins. - by Erin Hitchcock 31/ Making a Difference: Paying it Back and Paying it Forward FBB has been open less than two years and has up to 20 employees. Passionate about investing in the community, the company supports a wide range of efforts. Fraser said a major reason for the company‘s success is they‘re all loving and kind people.

- by LeRae Haynes

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief Lisa Bland lisa@thegreengazette.ca Senior Editor Jessica Kirby Contributors David Suzuki, LeRae Haynes, M argaret-Anne Enders, Brianna van de Wijngaard, Ciel Patenaude, Erin Hitchcock, Lisa Bland, Devon Chappell, Ronald M . Powell, Ph.D, Venta Rutkauskas, Jasmin Schellenberg, Terri Smith, Oliver Berger, Jessica Kirby, Sage Birchwater, Brandon Hoffman, Bill Irwin Adam M cLeod, M ary Forbes Advertising Lisa Bland Creative Directors Lisa Bland / Casey Bennett Ad Design Rebecca Patenaude, Leah Selk Published by Earthwild Consulting Printing Black Press Ltd. Cover Photo Image ID: 158555180 Copyright: COSPV Index Photo Image ID: 81960064 Copyright: IM _photo

PO Box 164 Horsefly, BC, V0L 1L0 www.thegreengazette.ca info@thegreengazette.ca

TheGreenGazette is published by Earthwild Consulting. To subscribe email info@thegreengazette.ca or visit our website at www.thegreengazette.ca © 2015 all rights reserved. Opinions and perspectives expressed in the magazine are those of authors, and do not necessarily represent the views of the ownership or management. Reproduction in whole or part without the publisher‘s consent is strictly prohibited.

6/ Corporations for the Planet: MEC and Patagonia In the midst of ―shop local‖ messages it can be easy to forget or overlook corporate efforts toward sustainability and responsible environmental practices. - by Jessica Kirby

08/ Strength in Superfoods : Warming Winter Recipes - by Devon Chappell 08/ New Jobs and a Thriving Economy Ahead for BC with Strong Climate Action 9/ Medieval Market in Williams Lake Nov. 21-22 - by LeRae Haynes 10/ Medieval Market Vendors: Bringing the Season of Giving Alive - by LeRae Haynes 13/ Winter Delights at the Cariboo Growers Market.

- by LeRae Haynes 13/ Skywatch with Bill Irwin - by Bill Irwin 16/ Confessions of a Farmer: Everyone Wins When we Support Local - by Terri Smith 16/ Rais ing Amadeus - by Terri Smith 18/ Bull Mountain Cross Country Skiing in the Cariboo LeRae Haynes 18/ Opinion: On Voting for Change - By Sage Birchwater 19/ Bikes for All: Another Way to be Waste Wise - By Mary Forbes

22/ Artists Showing at the Station House Gallery

by Brandon Hoffman 23/ Keeping it Local: Are You Participating? - by Chanti Holtl 23/ Winter Carnival Returning to Williams Lake Jan. 30-31 - by LeRae Haynes 24/ Message to Public Schools and Parents about Wireless Devices and Health - by Ronald M. Powell, Ph.D 25/ Sustainable Development Goals Offer a Path to Prosperity - by David Suzuki 25/ No Time Left to Waste: New Years Resolutions - Littering and …. - by Oliver Berger 26/ In a Time of Abundance - by Margaret-Anne Enders 28/ Shopping Local: Why It‘s (Still) Great - by Brianna van de Wijngaard 29/ Immunotherapy vs. Chemotherapy - by Adam McLeod 30/ Social Enterpris e: Worth Every Penny - by LeRae Haynes 32/ The Writer‘s Art & Craft; Author Steven Hunter - by Venta Rutkauskas 33/ Calendar of Events Nov - Dec - Jan 2015 - 16 35/ Nourishing our Children - by Jasmin Schellenberg

Lisa Bland Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief

T

he season of giving is upon us, and as we transition into winter mode, it can be a busy time of preparation on many fronts.

The winter may bring a welcome respite from our relentless pace—a time to spend enjoying the treasures of community and connection to friends and family. Here in the Cariboo region, it’s not hard to see how much caring exists in our communities.

From coffee shops, to community groups, from services, to local businesses and recreation and leisure activities, the opportunity for personal connection is everywhere.

Living in communities where we know, celebrate, share our stories with, and feel loved and appreciated by one another may be more essential to a healthy, happy life than financial security and wealth.

This past summer, I had the opportunity to visit with Brice Royer, a Vancouver man living with cancer, whose journey of transforming the pain and depression from his illness by embracing love and connection has been an inspiration to many. I learned of Brice's generosity in a Pay it Forward article www. va nc ityb uzz. co m/2 015 /09 /pa y- itforward-brice-royer/ and through a connection with a mutual friend. And as friendship networks tend to bring people together, I soon found myself sitting under a tree in a park on a sunny day with Brice, listening to his philosophy and story of healing.

Brice was born in France to a FrenchVietnamese father and Ethiopian mother, and lived in seven countries before the age of 18. He is known for writing the world‘s most-read Craigslist ad in February 2014, Unconditional Love For $0 which had over a million views. He started a group called the Gift Economy Vancouver, and his story has been covered in the Vancouver Sun, on CTV, Huffington Post, and VancityBuzz, to name a few.

On his personal journey of healing, Brice has touched many lives with his simple message: we all need love and connection, and they are free. He describes how, after substantial research and experimentation, he came to the conclusion we need to change the story and structure of our modern societies by putting love and sharing at their core.

How would you describe your journey?

I‘ve been helping strangers for a year and experimenting by selling unconditional love to heal myself of the depression from cancer. After a year, I'm happier. So despite the pain, I've never been happier in my life.

What made you follow this path?

I did a lot of research and discovered a lot of stories. I think stories have the power to change perception. I read The New York Times article, ―The Island Where People Forget to Die‖ by Dan Beuttner. It‘s about longevity and a man in his 60s with lung cancer that got better after he moved back to Ikaria, Greece.

When my surgeon said I have a stomach tumour, I asked her what causes cancer, and she said they don‘t know. So I got a second opinion So I got a second opinion. After

Brice Brice Royer and a friend selling unconditional love to strangers at Central Park in Vancouver, BC, photographed together during a CBC interview. “We asked a couple sitting on a bench if they would like unconditional love for $0, and gave them a receipt.,” said Royer. “They laughed and said, „We need more of that in this world.‟” Photo: Pan Ngnor Recei ving and gi ving unconditi onal love for one year

much research, it led me to the fact that most cancers are preventable and caused by factors such as diet, lifestyle, radiation, smoking, and environmental factors such as pollution. Only 5-10% are caused by genetics and within that there‘s epigenetic factors, triggers, or mutations caused by environmental factors. So I thought, ok, why are we stressed? Why is there mercury in fish?

Why do people start smoking? Why is there radiation and pollution? The further I went, I realized everything stopped at the economy level—and it‘s a complex problem. If I kept looking there for the causes, I might not find what I was looking for, so I put it aside.

The next question I asked was, where are the world’s healthiest places? There are seven. Of those, Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; and a town in California. All of these places have the highest concentration of centenarians over 100 years, and they are healthier and happier than the rest of us. What they have in common is they live isolated from the market economy. They may live on islands or in isolated mountainous regions and they have their own economies. They are farmers, shepherds, people who work hard, who share communal lands, live in families, make things themselves, have strong communities, and extended families.

I thought well, that’s great for them, but it’s not going to help me.

Then I saw a story about Mark Boyle in the UK, known as the man who lived without money for two years. He did an experiment to see if he could live without it, and said he‘s healthier, stronger, and happier than ever. Surprisingly, he learned security doesn‘t depend on money; it depends on community.

I thought, I need to experience that.

I learned about Sacred Economics, by Charles Eisenstein, how the current monetary system based on interest and usury, along with abandoning the gift economy,

has led to isolation, changed Brice from being in a wheelchair and homebound, to s miling and happy again. L photo: Pan competition, and need Ngor R photo: Courtesy of Vancouver Sun for an economic system of continuous growth. I The problem with the individualistic mindfelt that a culture with a set is when everyone does what they want to gift economy could indo, we have a lack of cohesion. crease my sense of beIn Sardinia, Italy, they have communal longing and decrease land with access only available to villagers loneliness, and may help and not to outsiders. There isn‘t a high turnmy cancer. over. There is strong cohesion, which is Within three days, I difficult to apply in urban settings. joined up with a friend The problem is we‘re trying to survive and we talked about creating an exchange on our own. The more disconnected we are where wouldn‘t buy, barter, exchange, or from our family, friends and community the trade anything—we would just give and more dependent we must be on the economy receive. This gift economy is how civilizaand jobs. The more money I had, the more tions lived for a long time.We now live in dependentI was on it, and the more isolated very strange times. I started a facebook I became. The more I had, the less I pergroup and my friend invited 200 friends. ceived I could give, because I didn‘t want to So, that‘s how it began. I want to translose what I had. Now that I have much less, port everything over from a market econI can actually give much more. In a Bill omy to a gift economy—food, transportaGates survey he interviewed billionaires and tion, everything, as an experiment to see if it found the majority of respondents are finanwill heal me. I don‘t think it will cure my cially insecure. Some of the highest rates of cancer, but it may remove the cause at least. suicide are among Chinese billionaires.

This past year I had to unlearn so much.

When I needed something I decided to Relearning the gift culture is a deeply spirilook toward my social network and friends tual heart issue, it has nothing to do with for hospitality and instead of asking, I delack of resources and management. The cided to offer a gift to someone else. When resources and people are there, and if you my lease was up, I told my landlord to keep remove the blockages to giving everything my $800 deposit for the next renter. He said flows better. are you sure? I said, ―yes, I‘m trying to I learned that the closer I lived to an change my life and pay it forward...‖then urban area with a lot of economic activity later I asked myself, what have I done? I the less strong my community ties were. could have used that money. Again this old When I got sick, it wasn't easy—losing my mindset and new mindset is a struggle to health, savings, and friends. I lost my social transition through. support. I decided to move back with famOver a year ago I was in a wheelchair, ily. It was a shock and transition from the bedridden for months, unable to speak, no culture of independence and self reliance to solutions from the doctors, and I wanted to being interdependent with others. It wasn't die. I realized giving helps your happiness. comfortable, but it was necessary, and I When you start giving, you start investing in believe it is the solution to many of our relationship. Whatever you have, instead of problems today, including housing affordatrading it for money, give it away. Give bility and loneliness. The most important your time, give your resources. You‘re actuskill isn‘t to learn how to farm or to sustain ally building bonds and relationships, and ourselves or fight against this or that bill in this is how you can support eachother. the government; it‘s to learn the skill of You know where my bank account is interpersonal communication and conflict now? In your heart. resolution, not out there, but in here, with our family. Money is an easy, quick fix to have what ―I‖ want, create my own way.

By Jessica Kirby, Senior Editor of TheGreenGazette

I

n the midst of “shop local” messages it can be easy to forget or overlook corporate efforts toward sustainability and responsible environmental practices. Corporations, big box stores, and global economic powers are curse words in crowds trying to pay homage to hometown communities and contribute positively to a greener future. It isn’t clear all of the time which companies really are making the world a better place and which are drowning us in page after page of inflated green-speak; in fact, responsible corporate shopping can be more work than feels right.

But the truth is, there are corporate entities working hard to improve global conditions around environmental protection and better quality of life for people. Large companies have the money, the people-power, and the invested interest in their corporate image to put forth meaningful programs that create tangible change in the communities from which they source labour and materials.

We don‘t want to believe money talks, but the truth is, money talks, and corporations depend on the community support and positive image environmental initiatives garner among consumers. Of course, many countries need assistance programs due in large part to corporate development, but in a global economy where people don‘t always leverage their purchasing power, how else do we reconcile corporate production goals with the consequences these inflict on countries around the world?

MEC, Canada‘s largest outdoor clothing and equipment retailer, was founded in 1971 by four UBC Varsity Outdoor Club members tired of travelling to Seattle for decent climbing gear. While stranded in a snowstorm on Mount Washington, the four devised the plan, and later other varsity club members bought into the co-operative and MEC‘s success took flight.

The company has a deeply vested interest in environmental protection, since pristine and healthy wilderness is vital to its success and central to its founders‘ passion. The company is inspired by adventure, defining it in the realm of ―being active, pushing boundaries, reaching for goals and dreams. ―It's about finding places that fuel our passions and sustain the planet, about taking a stand on the places that matter,‖ said its community involvement website. ―From urban neighbourhoods to the awe- inspiring beauty of Canada's wild spaces, adventures lead us around the block, off the beaten path, or all the way off the map.‖ MEC joined 1% for the Planet back in 2007, an alliance of businesses who believe in providing financial support to environmental initiatives.

It is one of more than 1,200 company members in 48 countries who commit to donating 1% of their gross annual sales to making the world a greener place. 1% for the Planet is an independent third party organization that confirms member businesses meet their required donations, and that recipients have clear, action- focused environmental goals.

increase wages or for a community development project.

Patagonia is also part of the FLA‘s fair compensation project, which involves members piloting and implementing living- wage mo d e ls in t he s u p p ly c h a in .

A second initiative involves stepping up efforts to improve labour conditions in all stages of the supply chain—cut-an-sew factories, textile mills, dye houses, and others.

One key victory includes significant steps towards stopping human trafficking in fabric mills in Taiwan that supply Patagonia. Specifically, the company reached agreements with suppliers to repay migrant workers portions of recruitment fees that were higher than is legal, and to end completely the practice of charging migrant workers recruitment fees, which can be around $7,000.

And finally, Patagonia joined and seed funded the FLA‘s Fire Safety Initiative in 2013, which trains workers and factory manMEC's Winnipeg, Montreal, and Ottawa (pictured) stores comply with C2000 standards agement to actively promote fire safety, and (Natural Resource Canada‟s Advanced Commercial Buildings Program). Photo: Radagast to recognize hazards and eliminate them without delay or seeking management apAlso an active member of the FLA is proval.

Since 1987, MEC has put its money where its mouth is and invested more than outdoor adventure gear an equipment manuPatagonia is also a 1% for the Planet $29 million in Canada‘s environmental and facturer Patagonia, which has more than member and gives grants of up to $12,000 outdoor communities through its community 2,000 people directly employed under fair each to environmental causes for whom this involvement program. MEC was the first working conditions with good benefits, sum can make a world of difference. And Canadian retailer to join 1% for the Planet, a subsidized child care, flexible work sched- overall, it has the same vested interest as move it hopes will encourage other Canadian ules, and paid time off to pursue environ- MEC in maintaining healthy wilderness and mental internships. companies to follow suit. outdoor activity—it is the company‘s lifeIts supply chain is vetted by a Social / blood.

In 2007, MEC became a bluesign® member and committed to sourcing 100 per cent Environmental responsibility team, which These are just a couple of examples of bluesign®-approved fabrics by 2017—it was evaluates prospective factory relationships corporations reaching out to make a differ74 per cent of the way there as of 2014. The based equally on social and environmental ence. There are indeed others, and with bluesign® system addresses the need for sus- practices, quality standards, and business some good research and diligent watchtainable textile production by eliminating practices, and can veto the decision to work dogging, it is possible to identify whether harmful substances from the manufacturing with any factory that does not meet rigorous your dollars are going to the environment and human rights progress or into the black process and setting and controlling standards standards.

Currently, Patagonia has three major hole of prosperity. The main thing is to for environmentally friendly and safe producprojects underway aimed creating real watch, explore, and realize that a strong tion. MEC commits to 100 per cent organic change for garment workers around the cotton for all company-branded apparel and world. One important goal is making the environmental plan in the commercial sector requires inputs of all kinds and from every increases on a yearly basis its product offer- living wage principle a concrete reality angle, including shopping local, diligent ings made from recycled materials. It was the through its Fair Trade Certified™ program, personal effort like recycling and selective first retailer in Canada to stop selling BPA- for which Patagonia pays an additional prebuying, and the financial reach made possicontaining water bottles and food containers, mium directly to workers in participating ble by responsible corporate entities with it eliminated all single use bags about eight factories—the extra funds can be used to clear and transparent policies. years ago, and has initiated a number of clothing and gear recycling and swapping programs online and at locations around the world.

In a sea of green talkers, MEC‘s actions on than pretend making salt and flour decoare verifiably meaningful in that the causes it By Jessica Kirby rations was going to get us through holiday supports and the activities it engages in are f you happen to be on Vancouver gifting forever. I approached the subject with evidenced and visible. The Community ConIsland this winter and bump into a a time-tested strategy for convincing kids of tributions program lists specific organizafriendly, economically fiscal ten just about anything: cartoon- like enthusiasm. tions, such as Canadian Parks and Wilderness year old at one of the local craft I told him of this super fantastic place where Society, Canadian Water Alliance, Avalanche fairs, don’t worry: he isn’t lost or aban- there was a great selection of beautiful Canada, and others, and details the programs, doned. That’s my son, Kaeden, possibly the Christmas things—ornaments, homemade initiatives, and achievements set forth by said most spend conscious and simultaneously fudge, clothing, jewellery, tea and spices, initiatives. Grants and donation recipients are generous kid on the planet, who has household products, pottery, cheese, and listed by province with awarded amounts, learned to shop local. wine for the adults. I think I had him at and future project prospects are always open It all started back in 2010 when he was ―fudge,‖ but I went on anyway, describing for review and engagement. There are no five years old and excited to find a Christ- this treasure trove of affordable, quality secrets or trapdoors in these policies. mas gift for his six- month-old sister, Kea. items. And the best part was he would get to MEC is also member of the Fair Labour He headed to the Vancouver Canucks jar on meet the people who make these items and Association (FLA) and was the first Canadian the treasure shelf in his room and carefully ask them anything he wanted. How cool is retailer to publicly disclose its factory name counted the dough he‘d been saving from that?

Rule #1 whe n teaching childre n to s hop and location list, which it continues to update birthdays, Christmases, and odd jobs for family members.

He wanted something, local: Be positive, excited, and committed. annually. In 2013, its Ethical Sourcing Pro―really good,‖ that Kea would ―appreciate,‖ Of course, I was describing our big local gram was accredited by the FLA. This procraft fair, but this principle applies to farmgram ensures MEC monitors its factories, in all her 24- week-old wisdom.

I realized the days of convincing him to ers‘ markets, smaller craft fairs, community reports its findings in terms of air quality, make every little thing were waning, and events like Seedy Sunday, and even garage human rights, and other labour practices, and the time for consumer education was now. sales. Rather than sit him down for a lecture works with non-compliant factories to imThough it pained me to talk shopping, it is on fiscal management and social responsibilprove their working conditions. part of our society so better to face it head

I

Continued on page 7

Continued from page 6 ity, I made the whole thing seem like a fabulous outing with an interactive component he would appreciate like a school field trip.

He was so excited!

Once we decided to go to the craft fair, it was time to plan our strategy. So we made a list. Besides his sister, he decided he wanted to buy a Christmas gift for me, his dad, his grandparents, and his best friend Jackson. We wrote out the names and some themes that would help him pick gifts—grandpa likes fishing, dad likes hockey, and Jackson loves to read. He also realized he had $50 total in the jar and wanted to spend $30 of it. Divided evenly he had about $5 to spend on each person.

Rule #2: Have a plan. If you ask Maria Montessori, or any trained early childhood educator of this century, children like order. The predictability of routine and stability helps them feel Kaeden Kirby holding a handmade pottery mug he ―normal‖ in a chaotic world where luxuries like impulse con- bought for me at the Kris Kringle Craft Fair, November 2014. Photo: Jessica Kirby trol and self- regulation are still only developing. Keep it simple and to the point—make a list, budget the things: bike parts, farmers‘ / craft markets, funds, and have the correct change ready. If and gifts for others. Last year, he planned your child gets $5 for each purchase, give our dinner menu for the entire summer him five $5 bills rather than dealing with based on what was available at the markets change and risking overages which can send (he‘s a fabulous cook). He has an on- going list of things he‘ll look for at the craft fair in some children (like mine) off the deep end.

When we got to the craft fair, row after November, and now he is teaching his sister row of beautiful things and friendly, engag- – who gets $5 per week to learn how to ing vendor faces encouraged us to come manage money – to plan for Christmas, and closer, see, feel, and ask about the items. who his favourite vendors are.

Rule #4: Make the rules your normal.

Kaeden was shy that first year, but in subsequent years he has made a point of asking Sherlock Holmes said, ―When you elimifor product samples or demonstrations, nate the impossible, what is left must be the complimenting all vendors on their hard truth,‖ and when you remove the option of work, and asking questions about interest- irresponsibility, all that is left is the good ing items. We wandered the entire event, stuff. So we head to the markets, and not to taking note of things we liked, and coming the big box stores. If we need something back to them once we had a bird‘s eye view from a toy store, we go to the local, community-owned shop. As the kids have of what was available.

Rule #3: Show; don‟t tell. Our family grown, the markets have also become rule at any event where buying things is places where they‘ve tasted independence involved, is that we tour the entire venue (doing their shopping alone, while we before committing to a purchase. As watch from afar); made social connections Kaeden and his sister have realized there is (we always stay for tea and music); and, nothing worse than dumping your entire $5 learned life lessons (a vendor once let budget on peas from the first vendor you Kaeden take something home he didn‘t see, just to realize there are $2 cookies for have money for on the promise to pay the sale down the aisle. Making self-control a next week).

The kids have had positive (and negafamily rule, it is not a lecture agenda item, but something we as parents also demon- tive) experiences talking with vendors, and strate. It removes the sense of urgency and that‘s okay because the world is a dynamic spontaneity from shopping and turns it into place. We are a crafty, gardening family so a deeper, more thoughtful and calculated they easily grasp the notion of buying from process. (Not that we frown on spontane- the people who make or grow the items. ity—we just save that for other areas of our And, we‘ve never had anything from a craft fair fall apart the first time we use it so the lives!)

That first year, Kaeden bought his sister quality speaks for itself. These are not a beautiful snow-person ornament. He things I purposefully implanted into their wrapped it in tissue paper and tucked it into consciousness—they are just what happens his third drawer, as though she may sponta- when you engage your community and let neously learn to walk on her baby legs and the rest flow freely. snoop his room in the dead of night. How exciting for him! And that trip was the foundation of an important habit that has become part of our lives—we shop local, *** we talk to the people we buy from, and we only buy what we need, after considering all the options.

These days, Kaeden has a paper route, and only makes withdrawals for three

6-8 goji berries (to top) cinnamon (to top)

By Devon Chappell

H

ow about a cup of joy, my friend?

Through our senses, the changing of the seasons, love, and desire we have constant reminders that we are alive. But if we are not soulfully connected to each aspect of life, we can end up in conflict within ourselves and with our bodies. With proper nutrition and a good head on our shoulders, we can carry ourselves through our days with our body, mind, and soul in harmony.

Each season brings something new, and while change is good, it‘s not always easy.

Most of us rely on our wardrobes to help us through the changing weather the seasons bring; but, have you ever imagined that you can dress yourself from the inside out?

Through food and nutrition, exercise, and the agility of a mind that can overcome matter, this is possible. Well, okay, maybe not completely. In the dead of winter at -40, we ourselves cannot actually become that warm bowl of soup or wool sweater.

But think of how in summer nothing beats a cold drink at the lake on a smokin‘ hot day. And now, as the air begins to cool and leaves make their beautiful turn from green to an array of golden, orange, and red and then fall leaving bare branches and winter just around the mountain, it is almost vital to have that perfect hot beverage to bring the sunshine inside our bodies during those cold months. So what could be better than combining some of our favourite superfoods that have warming properties with that steamy drink to warm our blood and wrap up our bones in metaphoric long johns?

Recipes Here are a few recipes that have been tested and found true. Just for goodness sake or a pre- winter blue.

By Julia Kilpatrick Clean Energy Canada With revisions by TheGreenGazette

E

conomic analysis finds steady GDP growth and 900,000 new jobs by 2050 as British Columbia cuts carbon pollution Renewing British Columbia‘s commitment to climate leadership would create jobs and bolster the province‘s economy, new analysis from Clean Energy Canada shows.

A Clean Economy and Jobs Plan for British Columbia would deliver increased economic activity, create new jobs, reduce household energy costs, and better position BC businesses to compete, while also cutting carbon pollution.

During the holidays, it‘s great spending time with family and friends. The joy of good company, conversation, and happiness can do wonders for our health. But what makes that special three- hour talk with your long-distant relative as they hold your hand and you smile and nod and calmly say, ―yes, of course,‖ and ―wow,‖ even more special is the food! It‘s amazing how great food can enliven your senses and please your soul. Especially pumpkin pie. So try this holiday in a cup, for an even greater reunion.

Ingre die nts 16 oz. unsweetened almond milk 1 Tbsp organic cacao powder (don't get confused with cocoa, although that works, too) 1/2 Tbsp raw organic maca root powder 1/2 Tbsp organic coconut oil 1 tsp vanilla bean powder

Method Add ingredients into a blender, Vita- mix, immersion blender, hand- mixer, or whatever you have to froth up all that awesomeness. Pour contents into a pot and simmer and stir just until hot then pour into a favourite mug. Top it all off with a sprinkle of goji berries and cinnamon. Love.

Your. Life.

The last drink recipe has a very special ingredient that I have not spoken of yet in these articles, but which has definitely made an impact on the world of health. This special ingredient of the Earth, We live, yearn, toil & burn, dig back to roots & let great from the trees of birch, in the health have a turn. Photo: Devon Chappell sacred form of a mushroom, goes by the name of Chaga.

I'm sure most of you health enthusiasts have Method heard of chaga before, but if not, just ask Place all ingredients into a pot and bring that big, friendly fellow, Douglas Gook at to a boil. Reduce to a light simmer and the local Williams Lake Farmers‘ Market place the lid on. Leave for 1-2 hours, take and he‘d be more than happy to tell you all heat off, and let sit overnight. Strain about its intriguing health properties. through fine mesh or cheesecloth and place in fridge. When you're ready for a wicked Chaga Chai By Dev tea, be it during the morning, night, or dayNote: I've only ever eyeballed my measure- dream, combine the two teas half and half ments so you may have to play with this into a pot that you and your friends can one, and this recipe is for a large quantity. share, heat it up, and serve in handmade mugs… Or whatever you like.

Ingre die nts 4 Tbsp chaga grinds or powder (if you find Remember: Anything taken in extreme some wild, great!) quantities can have upsetting results. When 4 L of spring or distilled water using something from the Earth to better your well-being, it is best to treat it with Place in a pot and heat to scalding, but respect rather than potentially overdo not let boil. Let that steep until cool and indulging in an attempt to speed up the store in a cool place. Don‘t worry: it won‘t nourishing effects. Just because a supergo bad. The anti- fungal properties of chaga food/herb works wonders on one person prevent it from spoiling. doesn't necessarily mean it‘s right for you.

Add these ingredients to a separate pot: Always use caution when introducing a new 4 L spring or distilled water element into the temple that is your body.

25 cardamon pods handful of cinnamon bark Devon Chappell is something of an impres2 Tbsp clove sionist with therapeutic hands. He holds a 10 or so black peppercorns (25 turns on a focus on what is real when it comes to food. pepper grinder) He has a personal interest in nutrition and star of anise (extract works) art and when he is in his element, Devon garam masala mix (optional) brings nature to the kitchen.

2-4 black tea bags (optional for caffeine)

British Columbians would have 270,000 more job prospects in 2025 than today, and easily triple that by 2050, with stronger energy and climate policies in effect. These jobs would be spread across sectors and across the province, meaning communities throughout British Columbia will see new economic opportunities.

Provincial GDP would grow at roughly two per cent a year – the same rate projected with or without climate policy – adding a healthy $46 billion over the next 10 years, and nearly doubling by 2050.

Emerging sectors such as renewable electricity, biofuels and manufacturing will thrive, adding 29,000 jobs by 2025 and a total of 59,000 by 2050.

Climate leadership can help keep rural communities diverse and prosperous: B.C.‘s traditional resource sectors will see

32,000 new jobs created in the next decade, with a total of 62,000 by 2050. ―Leading on climate and building a prosperous economy are two sides of the same coin,‖ said Merran Smith, executive director of Clean Energy Canada. ―In the next decade, British Columbia can cut carbon pollution while creating 270,000 new jobs and growing its economy by $46 billion.‖ The majority of British Columbians currently work in the knowledge and service sectors, where 210,000 new jobs will be created by 2025, reaching a total of 770,000 by 2050.

Households stand to benefit, too. New climate policies would help British Columbians save money by using less energy. An average rural household would save $1,200 a year and urban households would save

Pumpkin High Ingre die nts 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (roast the pumpkin and make your own, or canned will do as well) 2 cups unsweetened almond milk, cashew milk, or coconut milk 1 Tbsp pumpkin pie spice 1 Tbsp raw cacao powder 2 tsp raw maca root powder sweetener of choice, such as honey,Stevia, or agave, to taste Method Blend ingredients together. Pour contents into a pot and heat until tolerable to your taste buds. Get crazy with a dollop of whipped cream, homemade, of course.

Medicinal Hot Chocolate Are you just not all that into sugary sips of cocoa and marshmallows? Or is it a love/ hate relationship? How about a raw cacao hot chocolate? This fabulous medicinal hot chocolate is unsweetened, raw, and organic.

There are a few ways to make it, so to find your preference go ahead and play around with ingredients. You could even try adding a shot of espresso for that extra kick. This recipe is the way I like to make it:

roughly $900 per year simply by replacing worn out furnaces and old vehicles over the next 15 years.

The report outlines a mix of policy tools that would position BC to maintain its competitive advantage as a climate leader as the rest of North America follows our lead. It is based on new modelling by Navius Research, commissioned by Clean Energy Canada to quantify the economic, job, and affordability implications of meeting BC‘s 2050 climate target. ―This research makes it clear that British Columbian families and industries stand to gain from strong climate policies,‖ said Smith. ―B.C. has the opportunity to create new jobs and economic growth, while being recognized around the world as a climate leader. In other words, climate leadership pays off.‖

I

t's Christmas craft fair season and the Medieval Market will return to Williams Lake on November 21 and 22.The Market will continue to offer unique handcrafted gifts from artisans from around British Columbia, as well as fresh produce from local growers.There will be live entertainers all day and a full concession to make it a familyfriendly community event.

Now happily relocated to the Williams Lake Campus of Lake City Secondary on Carson Drive, and with over 90 vendors, the Market will expand into more of the many interesting spaces in the school. There will be three well- marked entrances to the Market this year: two on Carson Drive and one on Comer Street.

The Medieval Market is organized entirely by volunteers so all profits go to Lake City Secondary Students. Students working throughout the weekend earn money towards basketball, soccer, rugby, leadership, music, and dry grad fees. The Emerging Artist Awards provides two bursaries, each for $750, for students in financial need who are pursuing a future in the arts. Two big purchases in 2014 were a plumbed- in water bottle filling station for the students to encourage water consumption and musical equipment for the guitar class. Assistance is provided for busing students to Scout Island Nature Centre and teacher volunteers earn money towards extracurricular programs of their choosing.

All wares for sale at the Market are handmade by the artisans. When you purchase something at the Market, you are buying something unique and beautiful, and you know your dollars will stay in the community. Along with returning favourite vendors selling pottery, weaving, jewellery, original art, clothing, books, hand-carved old fashioned Santas, children‘s toys, beeswax products, wreaths and garlands, hats and mitts, quilting, glassware, wood products, felting, musical instruments, photography, hand-tooled leather products, wooden pens, wood carvings, herbal products, furniture, baskets, olive oil products, and draw knives, we are happy to include many new vendors.

These include Marilene Bleau of Planet Souvenirs, the Cariboo Piecemakers with their quilted items, Judy Coe with her felted hats and slippers, the 108 Sausage Company, Quille Farnham's fine art, Verna

Gainer's wooden signs and snowmen, Elissa Heser's wooden signs, Beth Holden's glass mosaics, Amber Horne's handmade upcycled bags, Coral Keehn's original art and prints, Karina Lajoie's jewellery, Sharon Meyer's therapeutic magnetics, Patti Perrault's sterling silver and gemstone jewellery, Tony Savile's woodcarved fairy and hobbit houses, Sharon Sipes' 3D paper tole art and crocheted Barbie clothes, and Pat Suter's wildlife photography.

In a special event for kids of all ages, the Potato House will be pairing with local photographers to offer old fashioned photos with Santa as a fundraiser for the Potato House.

Music will feature some long-time favourites and many new performers on two stages. Musicians include Christine Constabel and Sherry Taylor, Jean Wellburn and JolaJarecki, Quintet Plus, the Big Lake Quartet, youth fiddlers, Carmen Mutschele, Dena Bauman, Brandon Hoffman, Brent Morton, Troy Forcier, Sharon Hoffman, Harry Jennings, Angie Holdal, guitar students, and more. Special guest returning for the weekend from SFU is Kylie Gill. Watch for the entertainment programme on facebook (Medieval Market Williams Lake) or on o ur website ( http :/ www.williamslakemedievalmarket.com/).T he musical component of the market is generously supported this year by the Cariboo Regional District and the City of Williams Lake through the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society.

The concession features hearty soups and wraps, smokies, treats, and Uncle Paul‘s coffee.

So make a day of it. Come and peruse the market stalls, buy a few Christmas presents, enjoy a hearty lunch, and listen to the talented entertainers. Maybe you‘ll even win one of the many door prizes donated by the vendors. Random tickets are marked as door prize winners. If you receive one of these on your way in, you will be able to select one of the door prizes in the display case.

Admission is $5 for the weekend or $3 for Sunday only (kids under 12 are free).

It‘s November 21 and 22 at the Williams Lake Campus of Lake City Secondary on Carson Drive. If you are bringing a stroller, we suggest you might prefer to shop on Sunday, when it is a little quieter.

Singers in small groups, singers alone, and singers galore: part of the Medieval Market experience is enjoying talented local voices raised in song, from modern to Middle Earth and everything in between. Photo: Pat Teti

By LeRae Haynes

(Right) Connect to the natural world with the soulinspiring paintings of Jim Savage, who will paint on site to enhance and entertain.

Photo submitted by Jim Savage

S

teve Doucette and Lindsay Neufeld are back at the Medieval Market with their popular, eye-catching jewelry, including one-of-a-kind necklaces, bracelets made from table cutlery, and funky, fun earrings. Forks and spoons have been transformed into perfect accessories for yourself or unique gifts for someone on your Christmas list. Warning: this booth at the Medieval Market causes frequent double-takes and exclamations of delight!

For those who love the natural beauty of wood and want to support a non-profit initiative for local kids, Andrew Hutchinson from the Williams Lake Woodshop will have decorative, practical wooden crates made by high school woodshop students, as well as end-grain cutting boards and more. These items represent recycling start to finish, as well as a sense of pride for the kids who made them.

Bulrush baskets, hand-painted animal rocks, and exquisitely painted gourds will catch the eye and the imagination at Debbie Lloyd‘s vendor booth at the Medieval Market. Her husband also makes hearts out of horse shoes and garden hoes out of saw blades— recycling made beautiful.

Textures and colours make a spectacular tapestry at Eve Hoelzler‘s market display, where her weaving and knitting are a feast for the senses. Scarves, towels, blankets, clothing, and baby items—there is something for everyone. Find something for you or a loved one, from warm and fuzzy wear for crisp cool weather to a shiny, soft summer scarf that floats like a cloud.

Popular local potter Bev Pemberton will be back at the Market with functional and beautiful pottery in her distinctive dragonfly design. This is where to find the perfect dish for baking, eating, serving, decoration, sipping, or pouring. Bev and skilled local potter, Cary Burnett, are sharing a booth, pooling their artistry to bring you stunning gift ideas for the season and all year round.

(Above) Wyatt Armes and Madison Fraser, Grade 10 students at the Williams Lake woodworking class, display beautiful wooden crates that will be sold at the Medieval Market to raise funds for the program. Photo: LeRae Haynes (Below) Eva Hoelzler's beautiful weaving and knitting at the Medieval Market. Photo by Kylie Forsielle Still Reality Photography

Katie Chaffee and her family are back by popular demand, with an array of items that represent holiday baking, woodworking, and antiquing at their finest.

Rustic, woodsy, and whimsical, these items include bird houses, wooden stars, serving trays, signs, candle holders, alphabet blocks, and iPod speakers. Exquisitely painted, they are filled with personality and charm and will make a delightful addition to any home or garden.

Hand-painted ceramics bring a fabulous flavour to the Market, thanks to the artistry of Quille Farnham, who will also display engaging and alluring paintings that focus on light and everything made intriguing by its presence. She has wind chimes, dragon‘s egg bowls, and more—lovely, ethereal, and unique. New to the Medieval Market, her booth is certain to welcome visitors to bask in the presence of beauty and enhance their overall experience.

Engage your heart, your spirit, and your love of beauty with the paintings of Jim Savage. Contemporary realism meets connection to the natural world in his work, and every picture tells a compelling story.

He will paint on site, adding enhancements to even his high-quality reproductions, making them one-of-a -kind. They are indeed images from the heart.

By LeRae Haynes

F

ood is one thing that brings people together no matter what the celebration. Celebrating the holiday season, as well as the incredible cultural diversity that defines Canada, a group of six clients at Immigration and Multicultural Services Society in Williams Lake gathered to talk about food and share recipes from their childhood. ―One special dish I always loved for dessert was Leche Flan,‖ explained Connie Wonneberg, who was born in Nueva Ecija in the Philippines.―It was always there for holidays like Christmas and birthdays. It‘s always good, but at Christmas it tastes even better—there is more love and giving. I learned to make it from my mom.‖ Note: Leche Flan is traditionally cooked in an oval metal llanera, which is a panabout two inches high and six inches long.

Leche Flan Ingre die nts Flan 2 whole eggs 4 egg yolks 1 cup sweetened condensed milk 1 cup evaporated milk 1tsp vanilla extract Caramel 10 Tbsp sugar 4 Tbspwater Method Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Heat 1 litre of water in a large pan or steamer over medium heat. Cover.  Prepare a couple llaneras, or any deep tins, with a little butter or cooking spray.

Divide sugar and water evenly into both tins.  Heat llaneras on low heat one at a time until sugar starts to melt, and becomes dissolved and syrupy.  Turn off heat when caramel syrup turns light brown.  Tilt the tins to coat all sides with the mixture. Set aside to cool.  In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and eggs together, pour in condensed and evaporated milk, and continue to whisk. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined. Use a strainer and a ladle to transfer milk mixture into tins, getting rid of lumpy bits and air bubbles.  Place the tins in a larger baking dish containing ¼ inch of water. Bake for one hour. The flan is ready when your milk and egg mixture has set. Test it by jiggling the pan; if it seems set in the middle, it's ready. If it looks watery, give it more time.

Note: Check on the flan every 15 minutes or so to make sure the water in the larger baking dish doesn't start to boil, as this could cause the flan to overcook. If it begins to simmer or boil, add cold water to cool it down.  

Turn off the heat and transfer to a wire rack. Let cool for 10 minutes.

Refrigerate Leche Flan for about 30 minutes before transferring to a plate. Serve cold.

(Back row L-R ) Carolina Rieffolo, Connie Wonneberg, Darko Plavsin, (front row LR ) Busilak Harris, Ritz Santos, and Maria Elena Guiterrez Jackson from Immigration and Multicultural Services Society in Williams Lake share favourite holiday dishes and talk about what makes them delicious. Photo: LeRae Haynes

Ritz Santos from Caloocan City, Philippines said her favourite thing to eat at holidays was Beef Morcon. ―We only ate it at Christmas or New Years because it‘s so expensive and tedious. It takes four hours and a lot of TLC to make it,‖ she said. ―My mom and aunt made it and I learned how as a teen. We always had it on fiestas.‖ ―It was strange for me in Canada to eat moose: we don‘t have them in the Philippines,‖ Ritz continued.―Once I was recovering from surgery and a friend brought me soup. He asked, ‗How did you like the moose?‘ and I said, ‗What MOOSE?‘ It was a different texture, but I like it now.‖ A favourite childhood dish for DarkonPlavsin, who wasborn in Osigek, Croatia, is fresh-baked traditional cookies his mom used to make. ―My mom and grandma cooked, and I was the one who tasted,‖ he said. ―At Christmas the table needed to be full with all different dishes, and I liked them all. The day before Christmas you fasted all day: that was the tradition. You could eat anything but meat.‖ He said a lot of the time they had traditional fish soup. ―It was mainly poor fisherman recipes—they would cook whatever they caught, on an open fire on the shore of the river. The recipes are all very simple: just fish, onion, salt, and red pepper. The pepper should be really spicy—lots of it for the heat. Today, there are fish soup cooking competitions, and although the recipes are very simple, everyone makes it a little different.‖ To Darko, there is no odd food in Canada. ―I was a soldier; we ate everything,‖ he said. ―We ate frogs and we ate snakes— and it didn‘t taste like chicken; it tasted like snake.‖ To Busilak Harris, born in Manila in the Philippines, a holiday favourite was a whole roasted pig, or Lechon. ―You wash and shave the pig and stuff it like a chicken and sew the belly closed,‖ she explained. ―It takes two men to put in on a bamboo stick and hang it. You pour boiling water over it to make the skin crunchy and you roast it over the charcoal for hours and hours. ―While it‘s cooking you baste it with oil and spices: you use banana leaves to baste

for more taste, and you put an apple in its mouth to add flavour and décor.‖ She said moose was the strangest thing she has eaten in Canada. ―We were at Elks Hall at an event and I saw some meat and asked what it was. Someone said it was roast beef,‖ she said. ―But when I tasted it, it tasted funny and although I ate a little bit, I wrapped the rest in a napkin.‖ Caroline Rieffolo from Mendoza, Argentina said her favourite dish was always a roasted chicken her mom baked for her birthdays. ―She took a whole chicken and basted it with coarse salt, lemon, butter, and pepper, baking it along with sliced potatoes and sweet potatoes. She took garlic, parsley, and oregano mixed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar and when the potatoes were ready, sprinkled it over each one.―It was my favourite dish for a long time,‖ she said. ―I make it now.‖ ―My favourite thing my mom used to make was with zucchini,‖ said Maria Elena Guiterrez Jackson from Guadalajara, Mexico. ―She boiled the zucchini, scooped out the seeds and flesh, and put it in a bowl.

She mixed it with butter, eggs, bacon, salt, and pepper and put it back in the zucchini skin. She covered it with cheese, baked it, and served it with sour cream, salsa, and calabazas al horno,‖ Maria explained.

She said her craziest food story in Canada was when her eight uncles came to visit and they all went to Barkerville. ―We were going to have a BBQ at the lake and I just grabbed something out of the freezer in a hurry,‖ she said. ―We cooked the meat on the barbeque and it smelled really good, but when one of my uncles took a bite, it was so tough his false teeth came flying out on the ground. It turned out it was moose, and you really do have to marinate moose.‖ Another food idea she shared was Pocole Soup, which she said is good for a holiday dish when you‘ve perhaps partaken of too much Christmas cheer. She added that it‘s spicy and helps you sweat out excessive ‗cheer‘ and that it makes really good leftovers.

Pozole Soup Ingre die nts 1 can corn

(Top) Leche Flan. Photo: Ramil Sagum/ Flickr (Bottom) Randy Fung/Flickr 1 head garlic salt to taste 1 kg pork or chicken, cut in big pieces 1 big tomato 100g chilemirasol or guajillo (a smooth, soft, shiny, dried pepper) 1 pinch oregano 1 clove garlic 2 1/2 onions, chopped 1 head lettuce 5 lemons radishes Method Soup  Rinse corn and put it in a pot with water, the head of garlic, and salt. Cook on medium heat for 2 hours. Add meat and cook one hour.  Soak the peppers (after removing seeds) in hot water.  In a different pot, boil the tomato.  Put the peppers, the garlic clove, the tomato, 1 onion, and a pinch of cumin in a blender. Blend and strain it in a colander.  Take the meat out of the pot and add the blender mixture to the corn soup.  Simmer for one hour.  Shred the meat with your fingers. You can either put it back in the soup or serve it on the side.

Topping for the soup  Chop the rest of the onion and the lemons,and slice the lettuce very fine. Slice the radishes to go on the very top.  This soup is really good with chips and tostadas.

Happy holidays from Immigration and Multicultural Services Society. For more information about IMSS services, please ca ll (778 ) 412-29 99, vis it www. ims s willia ms la ke .c a nic . ws, or www.imss.ca or follow us on Facebook.

LeRae Haynes is a freelance writer, song writer, community co-ordinator for Success by 6, member of Perfect Match dance band, and instigator of lots of music with kids.

(Left) Sulfur and Snow, Syncrude, Mildred Lake, Alberta, Canada. (Right) Alluvial Fan, Albian Sands, Muskeg River Mine, Fort McKay, Alberta, Canada. Photos: Louis Helbig

By Brandon Hoffman

W

orking at the Arts Centre a couple weeks ago, I was visited by Louis Helbig, Kristin Reimer, and their son Oscar. They were looking for a venue on extremely short notice to host a discussion about Louis’ new book Beautiful Destruction. I thought the title seemed familiar and, after hearing their description of their book, I was quite curious to see it for myself.

Beautiful Destruction is a stunning collection of aerial photos of the Alberta tar/oil sands, accompanied by 16 essays by prominent individuals with very different ideas. Helbig somehow managed to get contributions from extremely different sides of the national conversation, folks like Eliza-

beth May, Athabasca Chipewyan Chief Allan Adam, co- founder of Democracy Watch Duff Conacher, vice-president of oil sands at the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers Greg Stringham, and Sun Media columnist Ezra Levant, to name a few.

Most of the photos in the book were taken on several trips around Northern Alberta and the boreal forest in an antique 1940s Luscombe airplane. Yes, Louis flies the plane while taking pictures. After chatting with the pair for a while, it was quite apparent these were some interesting individuals.

We squared away the rental agreement and they were back on the road. Next stop: a book signing in Kelowna. The moment they left my office, we were on Google to check out some of the photos.

The title sums it up perfectly. On purely an abstract level, the use of scale, colour, and rhythm are amazing. Flipping through the book it‘s quite easy to get wrapped up in the aesthetic beauty of Louis‘ work and completely forget what you‘re looking at.

The physical size of the book helps with this as well: it‘s a monster. Just when you‘re getting sucked into one of Helbig‘s spiraling compositions, some subtle detail will peek out at you and remind you the enormity of the subject. Whoa, that little dot is a dump truck?

At his talk, Helbig noted that he lost a few friends when he invited members of the far-right to contribute essays to the project.

But, I think by managing to get them on board he‘s doing an amazing service to the cause. It‘s so easy to get tucked away in our

own little social spheres. We all just ―like‖ and ―de- friend‖ until it seems everybody is preaching to their own respective choirs.

Louis and Kristen are demonstrating how great the arts can be in facilitating important conversations. If nothing else, you have to admire the guts of folks like Greg Stringham and the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers for having their name anywhere near this project.

After briefly pausing in Helbig‘s home town of Williams Lake, the trio was back on the highway towards their current stead of Ottawa.

Beautiful Destruction has garnered praise from the likes of the New York Times, the Ottawa Citizen, and Maclean’s. Pick up a copy from the Open Book.

By LeRae Haynes

T

he Cariboo Growers Market in Williams Lake is a source of community pride as well as hi g h- qua li t y, nat ura ll y produced local food. Farmers, ranchers, and producers fill the market year round with local, healthy, responsibly-grown seasonal food: a one-stop shop for great taste and peace of mind. ―It feels great to show that we can provide year round food in this area,‖ said Lynda Archibald from Fraserbench Farms, who along with her husband Charlie Brous, provides the Grower‘s Market with apple cider vinegar, dehydrated delicacies, berries, fruit, and much more. ―Even preserved, it‘s still local. That‘s how it all starts for me,‖ she said.―If I can grow it I‘ll make the effort to making it to something we can use throughout the winter.‖ On Fraserbench Farms, spring and summer delicacies like red and black currants, tart pie cherries, raspberries, plums, pears, and apples are creatively preserved for winter enjoyment. Things like squash, potatoes, pumpkins, carrots, and onions go into winter storage to be used throughout the cold months. ―We do frozen berries and cherries, dehydrated apple slices, pear chips, and fruit applesauce-based leather made with Saskatoon berries or blueberries,‖ said Archibald. ―With access to the Seniors Activity Centre‘s improved, licensed kitchen I‘m going to process things to sell at the Market likebread and butter and dill pickles, zesty red hamburger relish, pickled beets and carrots, raspberry jam and cherry jam, salsa, and dill beans. We take what we have a surplus of and process it.‖ Another local source of winter delights at the Grower‘s Market is Linger Longer Lodge, where Dan Mousseau and Jordan Evans raise pigs, chickens, and more. Linger Longer Lodge is a small farming outfit that has been in operation since 2012, sustaining a diverse agricultural ecosystem on over 25 acres of land.

Mousseau said when it comes down to eating healthy, natural, local food through-

T

he Mt. Kobau star party held annually near Osoyoos, BC was an adventure this year. The observing wasn’t great due to smoke, which I knew was likely. The Testalinden Creek wildfire on August 14 forced us to evacuate two days early. It came really close. The fire engulfed the lower part of the 20km forest service road leading to the top of the mountain. Had we been a half hour later leaving, we may have been forced to abandon our trucks, campers, and precious astro gear. By the time we fled it was 10 p.m., and my camper bed was full of telescopes. I drove home to the Cariboo that night and arrived after dawn.

When I arrived home, I set up my equipment back in the Bells Lake Observatory in the Cariboo and observed the things I had wanted to see at Mt. Kobau, such as the

Cariboo Growers Market store manager Jessica Knoedel, greets customers with a friendly smile, providing information about the locally produced delicacies available year-round, including meat, poultry, fish, fruits and vegetables, preserves, apple cider vinegar, birch syrup, and more. Photo: LeRae Haynes

“This is more than a workshop; it‟s an opportunity for growers and producers to get together and discuss what‟s next and what we want to see for the future,” out the year, it‘s all about eating habits. ―You have to eat with the seasons,‖ he explained. ―Throughout the winter months our mainstays are meat, potato squash, and things that store throughout the winter; we‘re also gearing toward fermenting some of the vegetables.‖ He said they have a greenhouse to extend the growing season, as well as a diversity of animals, including pigs, goats, alpacas, llamas, horses, turkeys, chickens, and ducks. They strive for sustainable agricultural practices without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, hormones, antibiotics, or steroids.

They said their current contributions to the Growers Market for the winter are chicken and pork.

delicious objects down in that rich region in Sagittarius and Scorpius where the summer Milky Way cascades down towards the horizon. This is the centre of the Milky Way and although we don‘t see it as the centre of the galaxy from here visually, there is great turbulence surrounding a supermassive black hole, as stellar matter accretes and eventually falls in below the event horizon.

Not even light (or a ―Saturday Night Live‖ broadcast) could escape gravity that intense due to the escape velocity from the black hole exceeding the velocity of light.

We are fortunate to live in the Cariboo, not just because of the sky darkness and wide horizon, but because the gentle landscape allows the air mass to move across undisturbed and the magnified images in telescopes suffer far less from turbulence, which robs the fine detail that a telescope is capable of.

―I think that the way we produce the best chicken is having them on pasture after only two weeks—they‘re outside all the time,‖ Mousseau said. ―They get fresh grass every day, and they‘re not sitting in bedding. We move the pens every day and the birds are always clean. ―Besides, they add nitrogen to our entire pasture: they‘re multi-functional.‖ People say Linger Longer Lodge chickens are incredibly flavourful and moist, said Evans, who adds the same is true with their pork. ―Our pigs are happy pigs: outside and foraging all the time,‖ she noted. ―Our butcher says this is what a pork chop ought to look like and he ought to know!‖ Evans and Mousseau have a one-yearold son, and said planning to raise a family makes you think about what makes the most sense when it comes to your food— what‘s in it and where it comes from.

Fraserbench Farms‘ Archibald said it‘s really important to start looking at the next step. ―More and more young people are starting to grow their own food, but what do we do with it? We need to get it into a for-

With the wide open vistas we have, it is easy to see how poorly shielded yard light can dominate the view. Light pollution is the bane of stargazers. I will discuss this further in future articles.

Suffice it to say for now, yard lights keep you safe from astronomers.

By the way, that very bright object you are seeing at dawn during November is Venus in the morning sky, and below it, Jupiter and dimmer red Mars are courting.

For more information contact Bill Irwin at the Bells Lake Observatory at (250) 6200596 or irwin8sound@gmail.com.

mat that we can distribute,‖ she explained. ―I would love to see a big storage, distribution, and processing centre.‖ One step in that direction is a workshop opportunity this winter, made possible by the Williams Lake Food Policy Council in partnership with the BC Ministry of Agriculture. The workshop, called Branching Out – Growing Into Our Future, is a strategic industry outreach initiative geared to bring local farmers and producers together, along with industry and businesses, to come up with a strategic plan focused on vegetables and fruit and related value-added producers. ―This is more than a workshop; it‘s an opportunity for growers and producers to get together and discuss what‘s next and what we want to see for the future,‖ said Archibald.―It‘s a chance to come up with fresh new ideas.‖ She added planning for the future is all about food security. ―If something happens and our transportation is delayed or disrupted, it takes one day to have our distance food supplies affected,‖ she said.―I know we‘re all used to buying exotic foods because they‘re available, but we‘re going to have to get better about enjoying those treats once in a while, but mostly eating what‘s in season.‖ A real benefit of our year-round market, according to Archibald, is that the average shopper knows who‘s growing their food, where it comes from, and knows it‘s top quality and hasn‘t travelled far. ―They can meet the farmer if they want,‖ she said, ―and know they‘re supporting a growing number of local farmers who really rely on the local consumer.‖ There are many wonderful products to choose from at the Grower‘s Market when searching for that perfect gift for your loved ones this holiday season.

For more information about the Cariboo Growers Market phone (778) 412-2667.

LeRae Haynes is a freelance writer, song writer, community coordinator for Success by 6, member of Perfect Match dance band and instigator of lots of music with kids.

By Oliver Berger

I

t's that time of year again, when we see the leaves turn to awesome golden-yellows and fiery reds, when we see the first frosts layering the Earth with crisp, sharp crystals, and when we see our first snowflakes of the season as Mother Nature blankets the land with a pure, white covering.

All the garbage on the sides of the roads is no longer unsightly because it has disappeared under the fresh snow-blanket. All that built- up clutter in the backyard has now beautifully disappeared and needn‘t be worried about until spring. With the shorter days and longer nights comes the urge to nest in our homes and semi- hibernate. We can now focus our time on the inside of the house.

Alas, with the shorter daylight, it is still a very busy time of year, especially with the recent and upcoming festivities. Halloween is the second highest grossing commercial holiday, making of course, Christmas, the world's highest grossing commercial holiday. When I hear the words ―top grossing commercial holiday,‖ my brain instantly swarms with all the stuff people end up buying just for a few days of entertainment, along with all the packaging of short-term products that come with it: decorations, treats, gifts, costumes, parties, and all the extra trimmings. These extras can create a lot of waste.

Holidays are a beautiful time of year when we spend time with family, enjoy a few extra days off work, and, of course, enjoy the food. However, for some people the holidays equal over-consumption and extra sales and every time making money is involved, the environment takes a hit or makes a sacrifice. So this year, let‘s put some consideration into our holidays and make a few changes in our normal routines that will better our efforts towards a sustainable lifestyle and planet.

Think about how long that next gift you buy will last for that special someone, or more specifically, what will happen to the present when they are done with it. Even if

(Left) Part of the family: A spider plant off-shoot flourishing years after being sentimentally gifted. (Right ) The gift of time: A charcoal drawing of my father for his Christmas gift a few years back. Photos: Oliver Berger

handed down once or twice, a plastic toy, or instance, will sit in a landfill or float in the ocean forever, whereas a wooden toy will decompose and naturally break down once it has reached its end of life. We can take advantage of all the great local artisans and craft- makers we have in our community and purchase something homemade or organic and most likely without packaging. Or better yet, take advantage of all this time indoors and make something yourself!

One year, our family decided we were not going to spend massive amounts of money on each other, buying things we really didn‘t need. Instead, we made the pact to make gifts ourselves. I spent some time head down into some charcoals, and drew portraits of all my family members. My mother got extremely creative with her knitting hands and lavished everyone with toques and wrist warmers. My sister made photo collages spelling our names with pictures of nature and put them in hand- medown frames. My dad, last minute of course, decided to put his phone down (which meant a lot to us then) and spent some quality time telling us stories of when we were little. One of our cousins came up with this grand idea to pot some of her expanding spider plant shoots into Share Shed planters and gift them to us as a symbol of the extension of her family. It was amazing, actually, how happy we all were with these simple, homemade gifts from the heart, so much so we continue this tradition to this day. We recently added sustainable wrapping to our pact, and substitute wrapping paper for simple newspaper, old books, or cloth bags

decorated with some hemp rope, buttons, or whatever our minds can create.

When it comes to decorations, there are many styles and ideas for sale out there; however, you know they might only last for one festive dinner party and then end up in the garbage bin after you're guests have left.

The nicest table setting I've ever seen for the Christmas holidays was just a collection of small tree branches, moss, pine cones scattered around, and a variety of nuts and oranges to munch on while you waited for the main course. Homemade wreaths are great too, and you cannot deny we are surrounded by enough materials in our forests to create, probably even sell, many of these. Surely if we stop consuming or buying these goofy,

short- lived goods, manufactures will find more Earth- friendly alternatives.

Last but not least, the most waste-wise gift of all you can give, is time. It is the most valuable thing we have in life and the most generous gift to give to someone, always. Offer some of yours this year.

Lest we forget.

Oliver has a 34-year degree in life, starting out in the Spokin Lake area, spending adolescence in Williams Lake, and then venturing throughout the world on a quest of always learning new things. Since working at the recycling facility in Williams Lake, his priorities include dedication to and education about waste management.

E

ver feel like there just isn’t enough time in the day? Life is so busy for so many people that finding the time to deal with waste can be a challenge. Day-to-day waste that is generated in the kitchen must be dealt with weekly, but unwanted items such as clothing, furniture, toys, and kitchen/household items can easily pile up over the years. Some individuals find disposing of these items in the garbage the easiest way to manage them. Others can’t bring themselves to part with the items as they might still have a use for them one day, or they are keeping them until they have the time to repair or redesign the items.

Rather than a landfill destination or perpetual accumulation in your home, consider taking unwanted items to a local charity, outreach program, share shed, or thrift store on a monthly basis. There are always those in need who can benefit from these unwanted items.

Charity organizations often have garage sales for fundraising and outreach programs provide items to those in need. There are over 25 share sheds located throughout the Cariboo Regional District, providing opportunities for residents to drop off unwanted items and to ―shop‖ for free. And thrift stores are often run in conjunction with a charity, providing affordable shopping and job opportunities. Many individuals who frequent garage sales, share sheds, and thrift stores are looking for items to reuse or to redesign and have the time it takes to repair or the creativity to redesign.

Alternately, you can sell or give away items yourself. There are many online op-

portunities to give away or sell unwanted items or you could have a yard/garage sale.

Kids clothing and toys are popular items to re-sell, as they are often in good condition due to the short period of use. Selling online or in your yard can put some money back in your pocket and items can be picked up at your door step.

If you happen to have time and the interest to reuse or redesign items, there are endless articles and ―how to‖ websites online or books at your local library to provide you with creative ideas and methodologies for how to turn one item into another.

Used clothing can be transformed into trendy shopping bags, purses, or wallets; bicycle wheel rims into circular table tops; end tables into brightly coloured patio furniture; old wood into bird houses or picture frames; meat grinders or colanders into lamps; doors into headboards… the list goes on and on.

Waste wise education is delivered to students in the Cariboo Regional District; however, the CRD would like to make waste education available to everyone, as we all have the ability to change our waste handling habits for the better. For more info on Waste Wise call (250) 398-7929 or find details on WasteWise activities and events at ccconserv.org.

Join the Cariboo Regional District this year to become waste wise and make a difference. For direct access to our monthly topics ―Like‖ us on facebook at

www.facebook.com/caribooregion? _rdr=p, or online at www.cariboord.ca, or look for our articles in your local paper.

By Terri Smith

I

have had the most difficult time getting started on this article. I know what I want to say, but delicate phrasing isn’t exactly one of my strengths and I don’t actually want to offend anyone. It doesn’t seem like I should have such a hard time being nice when the topic I am to write on is that of local economies, and the benefits of supporting our community through buying local and sharing with our friends and neighbours. This is actually one of my favourite topics. But sometimes, especially at the end of another summer of farming, I must admit that I do occasionally become a little bit jaded and cynical.

Confession, they say, is good for you. It feels good to admit we are all human. It can be a relief to be able to speak of our shortcomings, our humbling moments. So, dear readers, I have something to confess.

Sometimes, (not usually) it‘s really hard to be nice all the time while trying to explain that, in fact, my vegetable prices are not really all that high, but actually (barely) reflect the true cost of growing food.

Sometimes I think my smile may crack.

Sometimes the nice words I am choosing to explain why things cost what they do are not at all reflecting how I really feel.

Here‘s an example based on true events from this past summer. I‘ll call the aggravating customer, whom I do not know, WINS as an acronym for Woman In Nice Shoes.

WINS (snottily): These carrots must be organic with prices that high.

Me (smiling): Yes, all my produce is non-certified organic.

WINS (annoyed): Well, for $2.50 I can get a 5lb bag of carrots at Save-on. Your carrots are only a pound and a half.

Me (still smiling): That‘s true. However, because grocery store carrots are harvested by machine they‘re bred to be tough and woody and so they really can‘t compare with the flavour of a delicate and tasty variety that was harvested by hand and that‘s grown in good soil.

By Terri Smith

A

s we come back around towards winter, Amadeus is becoming fluffier by the day. I love sinking my fingers into his warm, soft coat of cashmere. He loves it, too. Of all the goats, he is obviously the most interested in human attention and companionship. He comes over to be scratched whenever anyone walks outside, and just like our dogs, his favourite place to be scratched is on the top of his back at the base of his tail. Also just like our dogs, he wags his tail whenever he gets a good back scratch. He also twists his neck around into a most unnatural position, shuts his eyes, and sticks out his tongue (not something the dogs have yet mastered). I think he may have a good future as a contortionist should he ever decide to run away and join the circus.

Terri at her Roads End Farm in Knife Creek. Photo: Casey Bennett

WINS (clearly not comprehending a word I have said): But why are they so expensive?

Me (glancing at her perfect shoes, still working on smiling): My prices reflect my cost of production. It takes a lot of time and labour to grow real food with real flavour.

WINS (still not really caring or even really listening): But how do I know you‘re actually organic if you‘re not certified?

Me (beginning to tire of the conversation, but still smiling): You don‘t. With so many different certifying bodies now, organic doesn‘t even necessarily mean what we think it should mean and my customers have said they don‘t care about the label. I use organic methods because I believe in growing great soil, which in turn grows great food. I believe in not hurting our planet and in eating and selling the best food I can produce. (Right about now I‘m really starting to get into what I‘m saying.

Soapbox, please?) I only sell locally so my customers can get to know me and what I stand for. I believe in transparency, and in knowing your farmer and knowing where your food comes from, and anyone is wel-

He is no longer the grumpy kid he once was. Not so very long ago I had to warn my friends to watch out for him when getting out of their vehicles. He didn‘t head-butt everyone, but he would usually try to headbutt most men to test whether or not they might be the dominant goat, or if perhaps he himself might win this time. I would always tell people to just grab him firmly by the horns (which he hates) and say, ―No!‖ in an authoritative voice. This usually worked and in the last year he has all but given up on testing humans to see if he might win. He seems to have decided that it‘s better to be friendly and get a nice back scratch than to be grumpy and get grabbed by the horns.

The exception is our friend Lorenzo.

From the time Amadeus was still a kid, Lorenzo would play with him in the way fellow kids would have played with him

come to come visit my farm and see how…

WINS (interrupting me): I‘m too busy for that, and your prices are still too high.

Me (but only in my head): Um, you‘re actually wearing shoes. Nice ones. I‘m not just a weird, barefoot hippy who doesn‘t like wearing shoes (though I am also that); I actually just can‘t afford any shoes right now.

Me (out loud, smile cracking now): Well, that‘s fine. Have a great day all the same.

These moments at the markets are thankfully relatively rare, but they are deflating and they do happen too much.

Many people still have not made the connection between a healthy local economy and actually going out and buying local.

The world is changing more rapidly now and people are starting to place more importance on supporting their communities.

Supporting local is fun and it helps build relationships with our fellow humans. Buying from local producers means you get to talk to people in your community. Over time, you become friends. Soon you find you know people who know how

to do most anything you could need doing in your life, or people who make/grow/ produce/sell almost anything you really need.

What I love most about the farmers‘ markets is the friendships I have built within my community. I love the trades and gifts that start to happen, too, as people build friendships. I have traded vegetables for all sorts of things: truck repairs, coffee beans, sugar, spices, fruit, baking, preserves, clothing, books, kitchen utensils, and even presents for other people in the form of jewelry and art. I have given away a lot of beautiful food just because I can and like to, and I have also received so many things that I treasure from the people I have met through growing and selling vegetables.

Just last week I ran into a customer at the coffee shop who lamented that I wasn‘t at the market when she‘d looked for me.―I know!‖ I lamented with her. ―I had a herd of cows break into the garden and they completely destroyed most of it so I didn‘t have enough left to sell!‖ She commiserated with me on this (and, yeah, that was a pretty awful story, but for another day), then said, ―I‘m glad I ran into you, I have something for you and your Mom.‖ She then brought me out to her car and presented me with two beautiful hand-covered, cloth journals she had put together for us, just as a thank you for the food we produce that she has so loved!

These small gestures have big impacts.

And so, to the woman in the nice shoes who just didn‘t know any better: you are missing out. You may have nice shoes, but how are your relationships with your fellow humans?

Terri Smith is an organic vegetable farmer in the Cariboo with Road’s End Vegetable Company. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Literature and a diploma in Art.

My favourite kids: Lorenzo and Amadeus. Photo: Maria Nunes

had he been a normal goat. That is, he would play the head-butting game. This is something I have always discouraged since I don‘t want Amadeus to think this is a good game to play, goat heads being way harder than human heads. But Lorenzo and Amadeus have a special relationship, Lorenzo being the only human who will

play with Amadeus like a fellow goat.

Now that Amadeus likes other humans I have decided to not worry about these two playing their goat games. It‘s nice that I have a goat who thinks he‘s a human and a human friend who thinks he‘s a goat.

T

he Ministry of Advanced Education will provide Thompson Rivers University with onetime funding of $154,000 for developing a proposed new Applied Sustainable Ranching Enterprise certificate program in Williams Lake.

The two-year program aims to give individuals the skills to develop a sustainable ranching enterprise by examining best practices in business strategy, financial management, operations, marketing, and enterprise diversification. It addresses the needs of the local ranching environment with a focus on sustainable management of natural resources and building resilience into ranching enterprises both at home and abroad. An advisory committee of ranching representatives from the Cariboo region ensured the program was built by industry, for industry.

The ministry‘s contribution will support the development and initial delivery of the first year of the program, which is expected to start in Williams Lake in January 2016. ―I thank the government of British Columbia for funding this important program which acknowledges tried and true practices while looking to the future of ranching and the communities this industry serves,‖ said TRU president and viceChancellor Alan Shaver. ―This program will realize three of TRU‘s Strategic Priorities: increasing sustainability, increasing research capacity, and increasing the entrepreneurial capacity of our students and communities. Our students‘ success will help ranching to evolve and thrive in the new global market.‖ ―Ranching is a way of life in and around this area and it is important that families can access the new program that supports farming and the region,‖ said Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett. ―The program was created by farmers to support their needs. Students will be able to stay close to home during their studies in order to support their farms and families.‖

Flexible course modules balance academic study with applied work on a farm or ranch, in shorter blocks than the traditional four-month semester to suit the timetables of mature learners. Because the modules are completed in a blended format, students living or working on any ranch throughout BC are able to enrol in the program without having to move away from home. Students attend the weekly seminars in person or via video conference.

After the mandatory first two modules – Sustainable Enterprise and Environmental Sustainability – which take 12 weeks to complete, students can pick and choose additional modules to study at their own pace and complete the certificate. A research project in each year of the program will provide experience with business plan development and with operations management planning. ―We are grateful to the provincial government for recognizing the need for this applied agricultural program in the Cariboo –Chilcotin,‖ said Dr. Ray Sanders, executive director, Williams Lake Campus. ―Local ranchers are excited that the program will examine the importance of conducting business in a way that ensures environmental sustainability, by examining in depth the principles of maintaining soil and water health, living with wildlife, and respecting all aspects of biological diversity.‖ Considerable attention is devoted to the locally relevant challenges of beef and sheep production and the provisioning of food through winter periods. This funding supports TRU to continue to provide high quality education, ensuring students have the skills required to meet the demands of our growing economy.

A program information night will be held at TRU Williams Lake Campus on Monday, November 16, 2015 at 7 p.m. to provide interested parties with more information about the program.

Contact Myrissa Krenzler, marketing co-ordinator, TRU Williams Lake at mkrenzler@tru.ca or (250) 392-8048 for more info.

By LeRae Haynes

P

eople looking for outdoor, winter family fun in the Cariboo can find the perfect answer close to home at the Bull Mountain Ski area just 16 km north of Williams Lake. Cross country skiing, one of the fastest-growing sports in Canada, is not only a top-notch cardio workout, it’s accessible to all ages and is a great opportunity for a family to spend outdoor time together in a beautiful wilderness environment.

The Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club, a non-profit organization, runs the facility at Bull Mountain, according to member Kirsty Gartshore. ―We have parking lots, numerous trails from beginner to advanced, and a warming hut with a big wood stove,‖ she said. ―There‘s also a small frame hut higher up in the trail systems where people can have a fire and a picnic; it‘s a nice destination.‖ Bull Mountain also features a snow shoe trail and some dog-friendly trails. ―There‘s a total of 28 km of trails, and 3.5 km can be lit,‖ said Gartshore. ―We also have an adventure trail with life-sized cartoon characters.‖ She volunteers with the ski club because she believes in the sport and sees it as a wonderful benefit to kids and families. ―This is a sport accessible to everyone, and

By Sage Birchwater

F

or many of us, the October 19 Canadian federal election was all about voting for change—to get rid of Stephen Harper. We took a lot of flak for this because our critics felt our stance was too negative. They argued we should be voting FOR something, not against someone.

That may be true, but first and foremost, Harper had to go.

We had our reasons. Under Harper‘s regime Canada‘s international reputation had sunk to an all time low, and our selfimage as Canadians was hurting.

Harper‘s politics of pitting one group of Canadians against another was unconscionable. His heavy- handed autocratic style saw him firing scientists and destroying decades of scientific research and records in a wrong -headed attempt to dumb down our country‘s ability to act intelligently and responsibly.

His removal of environmental protection for rivers, lakes, and streams, denying climate change, and being an agent of corporate dominance over the common good, threatened the roots of our sustainability and democracy.

Then there was squeezing the life-blood out of the CBC, fear- infused rejection of Syrian refugees, and a paranoid stance on the niqab issue.

The Canada we loved was more than just low taxes and squeezing the bottom line. It was about inclusiveness, fairness, looking after the less fortunate, and celebrating our differences.

When Harper called the most-expensive -ever, 78-day federal election on August 4,

Elementary school students in School District #27 and in home school classrooms thoroughly enjoyed a cross country ski tournament at Bull Mountain in March 2015, put on by the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club. The event will take place in 2016 on February 28.

Photo: Cathy McIntosh

it is very economical,‖ she said. ―And the other thing is the parents of our young skiers. They‘re a fantastic group – it‘s so refreshing – a big, extended family feeling.‖ Children up to 12 years old can join programs at the club, beginning with Bunnyrabbits, followed by Jackrabbits and concluding with Track Attack. There‘s also a racing team called Bull Mountain Racers, which welcomes adult racers.

There is an emphasis on fun, participation, skill development, and safety. The objective of the program is to provide the

2015, many of us were already in the ABC (Anything But Co ns er va tive) /ABH (Anything But Harper) camp. Conservative Todd Doherty was the only Cariboo Prince George candidate in the running, and we knew the Conservative Party base in this riding was a hard nut to crack.

Before the other major parties selected their Cariboo Prince George candidates, a nation-wide grassroots organization known as Vote Together emerged intending to defeat Harper. Through various polls, surveys, and analysis the group identified which ―progressive‖ party ABC/ABH voters should support in each riding.

Based on 2011 election figures, Vote Together identified the NDP as the party of choice in Cariboo Prince George.

To everyone‘s amazement, by midSeptember the Vote Together poll showed the NDP leading the Conservatives in Cariboo Prince George by six points, 36 percent to 30 per cent. Closing ranks on the two front runners, however, were the Liberals at 29 per cent. In spite of that, the NDP was still the party of choice to defeat Harper.

What ABC/ABH supporters didn‘t factor in was the strength of the Liberal party base in Cariboo Prince George, and the volatile changing tide surrounding the leaders Thomas Mulcair and Justin Trudeau.

The Liberals fielded a strong candidate in Tracy Calogheros, executive director of Prince George‘s Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre. She was high-profile and proficient and she demonstrated her acumen at the two all-candidate meetings she attended in Williams Lake.

At the end of August, the NDP finally got it together to select candidate Trent Derrick. He was a successful businessman in Prince George, who had experience work-

opportunity for children to move through the sport at their own speed based on their ability, skills, and interests. ―Kids love this—we have toddlers on skis,‖ said Gartshore. ―People come here and pull their babies behind them on a ski sled; it‘s a great way to get out and enjoy the sun, the smells, and the fresh air. ―This is something you can do all together, without dividing people by age,‖ she added.

Gartshore explained she started downhill skiing at age three, and began cross

ing in the public service. At 40 years old, he was young for a politician, and was of First Nations ancestry. Trent‘s father is a hereditary chief at Gitskan in Hazelton, and his grandfather stood fast against settlers trying to take over his land.

We threw our support behind Trent Derrick.

The response Trent got from First Nations people across the region was inspiring.

Back in August at the Tsilhqot‘in AllNation Gathering at Siwash Bridge, the chiefs encouraged their people to register to vote, and before they even knew who the candidate was going to be, they stated their support for the NDP. At a breakfast meeting in Tl‘etinqox, Trent bridged an understanding with people who were perhaps voting for the first time.

He fielded issues technically outside the federal mandate, but his empathy with the community losing children in care was authentic.

But Rome wasn‘t built in a day. It will take more than a whirlwind tour to win the hearts and minds of the electorate. Building a political base takes time and dedication.

In the last days of the election NDP fortunes across the nation were plummeting and Trudeaumania was on the rise. Nevertheless, I was still convinced the Vote Together poll was accurate. Our message was consistent. If you want to dump Harper, vote for Trent. Even if you were Liberal, vote for Trent, because the fewer Conservatives in, the better chance Trudeau has to form the next government.

I know we swung a few Liberal and Green votes into the NDP camp. I‘m tempted to feel bad, because Vote Together had it all wrong. Tracy Calogheros was the candidate we should have rallied behind,

country skiing at about the same time. ―I grew up with a mom who loved winter,‖ she said. ―We escaped the rainy, dark Vancouver weather by going to our cabin in Whistler to ski on the weekends. Mom was a downhill ski racer, and at 82 still goes to Whistler to ski almost every weekend. ―There‘s nothing like cross country skiing to beat the winter blues,‖ she added.―You just need to get outside and get some exercise: you feel so good, mentally and physically.‖ Coming up November 21 is an open house for the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club at the CRD Library from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the activity room.

Another date to put in your calendar is January 10. From 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. there will be a Family Fun Day at Bull Mountain with free ski gear for people to try, free coaching, and a free day pass.

The Elementary School Cross Country Ski Tournament will take place February 28, 2016.

For more information about the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club, including programs and upcoming events, visit www. bul l mo u nt ai n.c a, e m ai l mailto:info@bullmountain.ca, and follow the group on Facebook.

but we never saw it coming. When the final tally was counted, Conservative Todd Doherty took the cake with 19,688 votes, followed by Calogheros with 16,921, and Trent Derrick with 13,879.

Whether our ABC/ABH campaign should have backed Calogheros is unclear, but one thing is certain: voting together could have defeated the Conservatives. The rest of Canada, however, had it right and bounced Harper from office. That‘s mostly what we cared about.

Trudeau has already made a difference, shifting Harper‘s divisive cloud into an attitude of inclusiveness. Not only will Trudeau attend the United Nations Climate Summit in Paris, but he has invited Green Party leader Elizabeth May, the leaders of the other political parties, and premiers of all the provinces and territories to join him.

Those who supported the Vote Together campaign are hopeful Trudeau will introduce electoral reforms supporting proportional representation. This will end the need for strategic voting where you hold your nose and vote for someone who is not your first choice, so they will be first past the post ahead of someone you want even less.

Meanwhile, the colleagues in my camp feel we got our Canada back. The wicked witch is dead; the Grinch who stole Christmas is gone.

Sage Birchwater moved to the CaribooChilcotin in 1973. He spends his time freelancing, authoring books, and with Caterina, hanging out with their dog and cat, gardening, and being part of the rich cultural life that is the Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast.

By Mary Forbes

W

illiams Lake has a bike recycling program called Bikes for All provided by Waste Wise, a program of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Conservation Society. It started simply enough: in my role as Community Waste Educator, I spend a lot of time at the Share Sheds and Transfer Stations and was noticing there were a lot of bikes in all conditions. In one of my previous experiences I repaired bikes at a pedestrian festival and did shifts at Our Community Bikes on Main St. in Vancouver. I knew many of these bikes were just a little elbow grease away from being on the road again.

So, I started collecting, and the more I collected, the more bikes I could fix (lots of parts, you understand). Then it all came together. For a Bike Rodeo three years ago, we collected a bunch of bikes from Red Shreds, added them to some of my rescued bikes, and gave them away to families in need. It was the best event of my life! It was like Christmas every five minutes when I could give a bike to a child and their parents for free, with helmets provided by, the sadly now defunct, Cariboo Brain Injury Association.

Bikes for All is now a huge program providing hundreds of great bikes to new homes in partnership with Barking Spider Mountain Bike and Red Shreds Bike and Board Shed. Last year we re- homed over 40 bikes. This year the number is closer to 50. That is 50 people out enjoying the sun, riding the trails, and commuting free and fast (and safe) around town. Bikes for All also does bike fixing parties at First Na-

(Left) Ian the bike tech at Redshreds, has done a lot of bike fixing the past fall and donated bikes to Bikes for All. (Right) A full truck-load of donated supplies from Scott Gordon at Barking Spider Mountain Bike in Williams Lake. Photos: Mary Forbes

tions Communities and has partnered up with Aboriginal Youth Mountain Bike Association (AYMBA) to further share these recycled rides. Bikes for All specializes in kids bikes and older road quality mountain bikes; trail quality and full suspension mountain bikes go to AYMBA or to the Boys and Girls Club for their afterschool rides. Together, we really do get Bikes for All. What I spend the most time fixing is flat tires. Tubes are always in demand but when it comes to kids‘ bikes, something I cannot fix that means the difference between a bike being trash or treasure, is seats and handle bar grips. Who wants to sit on a cut up, possibly soggy with rain water, plastic seat or wrap their hands around sticky gooey grips? Welcome, new owner Jim Anderson from Canadian Tire in Williams Lake who has generously donated a huge number of bar grips so ―Ewww‖ will never

be the first thing a kid says when they grab their previously loved bike. This Past Waste Reduction Week October 19 to 25, I set up a booth in the afternoon outside Canadian Tire and had a great day demonstrating simple bike fixing techniques and collecting donated bikes from the community. Red Shreds and Barking Spider have been endlessly generous in donating seats to the program so our supply costs are very low.

Taking a bike apart is a joyous and frustrating endeavour. Sometimes rusty, sometimes seized, sometimes full of spider eggs, when a part comes free it‘s like I am suddenly a surgeon saving lives. Scraped knuckles and a big smile are my regular outfit for this activity and I very happy to say I have a wonderful new crew of help from the Columneetza Alternative Class.

They came to my junkyard (really, my husband calls it ―the horde hole‖) and disas-

sembled bikes with me in the same uniform of Band- Aids and grins. The time they provided to dislodge seats, remove kickstands, and crank off old pedals has made it possible for 15 more kids‘ bikes to be available in just two hours. By myself, I average one bike an hour so their help was wonderful and appreciated.

All this is possible because of the generous funding from the City of Williams Lake, the Cariboo Regional District, and the Province of BC. Thank you for helping Williams Lake be Waste Wise and thank you very much to Jim at Canadian Tire, the Alternative Class at Columneetza, Red Shreds, Barking Spider, and everyone who has donated a bike to Waste Wise–together we are the cure to garbage. For information please contact wastewise@ccconserv.org, (250) 398-7929, or #BK4ALL.

3.Understand the ‗enemy‘.

Photo: Pixabay.com

By Ciel Patenaude

I

t’s not likely that many of us will escape the winter season without getting the cold and/or flu at some point. Maybe it hits us early (and hard, as it has been for some people locally already), or maybe we will make it almost to spring before getting knocked out, but it’s fairly inevitable that it will happen.

Given this, and given the reality that this has been happening to us roughly once a year since we were children, you would think that more of us would be ‗better sick people‘ by now, experienced as we are in the art of being ill.

However, in our culture being sick has far less to do with accepting what is happening and learning how to deal with it well than it does with pushing through and getting back to our regularly scheduled programming as quickly as possible. Nothing about being sick is seen as a meaningful or (dare I say) ‗good‘ thing in our society; it is viewed a nuisance that we should vaccinate and medicate away in totality.

But what if getting our yearly cold was not just an annoying blip in our life experience, but instead held possibility for personal awareness and physical healing that we have yet to understand? What if getting sick is actually something our bodies – and minds – need to do, like sleeping?

Current research seems to point in this direction. No longer perceived on a simplistic Germ Theory level, viruses and bacteria – and the illnesses they encourage within us – are being studied to understand their positive and ‗meaningful‘ effects, and

the larger purpose they may actually hold in our overall health.

(Prior to beginning this discussion, however, please note I am not speaking here about life-threatening illnesses, or sickness occurring in those with highly compromised immune systems: this is about the average cold and flu that will likely keep us away from work for a few days, stuffed up and miserable.)

So what does it mean to be a ‗good patient‘ in the art of being ill? Empowerment, knowledge, personal emotional development, and an on-going commitment to resist the norms of Western culture when it comes to sickness.

1.Educate and heal yourself.

This is reflection that comes mainly from Western doctors: people need to know how to take care of themselves better. In the US it‘s estimated that around 11 percent of doctor‘s visits are for the common cold, something a doctor can do absolutely nothing about. Learning how to boost your immune system and heal well is something the common folk used to know many years ago – chicken broth, anyone? – and yet we too often hand over our ability to take care of ourselves at the slightest sniffle.

Some proven natural ways to treat yourself include extra doses of vitamin D, at least 30mg of zinc each day, 2000 mg of vitamin C (or more) daily, lots of garlic, elderberry syrup – take this through the whole winter if you can – and broths, which contain countless necessary immune

-supportive factors. And rest: that which we resist the most.

2. Get philosophical We all know being sick isn‘t entirely pleasant, but to sit around and be sick and then think on how much we hate being sick is a somewhat insane thing to do when you think about it, layering discomfort over more discomfort.

The capacity to be a mindful patient and choose your response to being ill is always, no matter what, within your grasp.

The mind is the one thing we can control when feeling rough, so it would seem meaningful to do so.

A thought to help it out? When we get sick it is because viruses invade the weakest and most vulnerable of our body cells, causing them to be removed with other waste that has been accumulating. Viruses are, in many ways, helping us to get rid of garbage far faster than we could, and illness is therefore highly useful and necessary.

Getting sick is also an opportunity for psychological and emotional ‗downtime,‘ if we take it. In Scientific American, Mary Helen Immordino-Yang of the University of Southern California said, ―Downtime is an opportunity for the brain to make sense of what it has recently learned, to surface fundamental unresolved tensions in our lives, and to swivel its powers of reflection away from the external world toward itself.‖ We all need to slow down, and sickness is often your body‘s way of telling you it‘s time to take a pause.‖

Germ Theory postulates that humans get sick only because of exposure to bacteria and viruses, and this theory has driven much of contemporary Western medicine development.

However, Terrain Theory, a now more widely accepted and highly reasonable perspective on illness development, suggests it is also whether a biological environment (a body) is hospitable to infection that determines which entities may invade.

In essence, it is not the ‗fault‘ of the infectious agent that we get sick, and taking antibiotics and antivirals without building our innate immune strength makes little sense. From this perspective, getting sick is a message from our system that we have perhaps been going a little too fast with too little support for too long.

Taking mucus and fever suppressing medications has also been labeled a healthnegating choice, for those reactions are necessary for the body to develop and maintain an immune response. Mucus actually contains countless numbers of ‗helping‘ viruses called phages that invade any bacteria lingering about, preventing bacterial infections that may result when a cold lasts for a long time. To wipe the mucus out actually detracts from our innate immunological response.

In short, attempting to fight the sickness – either the manifesting symptoms, the pathogen involved, or the overall emotional experience of having a cold – does nothing but prolong and increase the discomfort of it all, simultaneously decreasing our sense of potency and power as individuals.

May we all take responsibility for what we can do in improving overall health through diet and lifestyle choices, but then learn to release into the moment when sickness occurs, trusting necessary processes are occurring and health will return, if we will slow down enough to let it happen.

Ciel Patenaude is an Integrative Health & Shamanic Practitioner based in Williams Lake, BC. A highly trained and naturally gifted intuitive healer, Ciel holds a BSc in Biology, an MA in Integrative Healing, and is a certified yoga teacher & wellness coach.

By Brandon Hoffman

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his is the last exhibition for the year at the Station House Gallery, and it’s sure to be a fun and lighthearted end to the season. For the month of November, regular Green Gazette contributor Terri Smith and artistic partner-in-crime / mother Karen Thompson lead a group show set to the theme of ravens and crows. Murders and Unkindnesses is a collection of sculptures, installations, paintings, jewelry, and more.

The show playfully weaves together facts, folklore, and traditional narratives surrounding these infamous creatures.

Terri and Karen have noticed that ravens and crows carry both similar and conflicting reputation across cultures. In their words: ―…we have attempted to touch on all aspects of Crow and Raven, from the absurd to the sacred, from the dark and mysterious to the natural and interesting. In whatever form, Crow and Raven continue to excite both revulsion and delight.‖ The duo has brought Lynn Capling, Julie Burns, Susan Fletcher, and Raymond Fletcher on board to fill both floors of the Station House for the month of November.

Following Murders and Unkindnesses, we rearrange the main floor of the gallery once again for our renowned Christmas Market. Executive director Diane Toop pulls out all the stops when putting together the yearly market. She digs deep to find the best of the best in locally made artisan goods, from artwork and pottery to organic honey and spice blends. Keep it local for the

holidays! The market runs for the month of December.

I‘d like to offer a huge thank you to all the artists who displayed their work in the 2015 season, and those who have submitted to display in 2016. The caliber of local and visiting art this year, not to mention the hard work of the artists contributing, has been humbling. I am currently sitting on a hefty stack of applications for 2016 shows, and can‘t wait to start piecing together next year‘s slate. It‘s great to see all the beautiful submissions from familiar names around the community, but even more exciting is the range of talents from fresh faces. We will announce the exhibition schedule for 2016 early in the New Year.

Come by and get a 2016 membership to stay up to date with exhibitions and other on -goings at the gallery. At just $25 per year ($30 for the whole family), it‘s the easiest way to keep a finger on the pulse of the Cariboo‘s vibrant arts scene. By becoming a member you receive monthly invites to exhibitions, and exclusive deals in the gallery and gift shop. Another great way to support the gallery is by becoming a sponsor. If you or your business is interested in donating to the gallery or sponsoring an exhibition, we wo uld lo ve to hea r fro m yo u.

Brandon Hoffman calls Williams Lake home base, jumping between offices at the Central Cariboo Arts Centre and the Station House Gallery, while spending as much time as possible making music and hosting the Safety Meeting concert series.

By Chanti Holtl

By LeRae Haynes

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small group of community members responded to complaints last fall that there was nothing to do in the winter in Williams Lake. In a few short weeks they succeeded in leaving that complaint behind in a dirty snow bank, and brought a community together in the process. They created a unique, two-day, free family event in Boitanio Park called the Williams Lake Winter Carnival, welcoming between three and four thousand people to celebrate family fun in the beautiful Cariboo. ―I got tired of hearing people complain on and on that there was nothing to do here in the winter—I‘d had enough of all the whining and a bunch of us started talking about creating something unique for the community,‖ said organizer Derrick Boyes. ―We got started on this in November and everybody said we couldn‘t do it. The goal was to bring a whole community together and the response was unbelievable; turns out playing outside is a great thing to do in the winter.

The goal from the beginning was to create a free event with something for everyone—like what you do with your friends in the backyard that doesn‘t cost a lot of money.‖ With only 25 volunteers, they organized an enormously successful event that included tubing, igloo making with ice from Williams Lake, sledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowman building contests, sleigh rides with horses, ice fishing, snow sculpting, and snow painting.

There was a chili cook-off, tip is with live singing and drumming, face painting, karaoke on the main stage in the park, breakfasts by the Lions Club, and free public skating in the arena.

The Carnival took three day‘s steady work to set up. ―We had a giant loader from the City piling snow for the hills and clearing snow,‖ said Boyes. ―We had Bobcats and containers to store the equipment overnight, snow machines and snowmobiles, RVs, many tents, and equipment to haul in the sleighs and horses. People supplied things like snowshoes, cross-country ski gear and equipment for the ski runs, track grooming equipment, propane heaters, and massive amounts of propane.‖ He said it was entirely supported by incredibly generous local businesses.―I didn‘t have to go door to door to get help from the business community,‖ said Boyes. ―Often they would call and say, ‗come see me – we want to help.‘ I believe the businesses who contributed to the event benefitted ten- fold from their generous support: whatever they gave, they got back. I had guys who donated their time and made awesome connections with the public; some businesses even expanded as a result.‖ One of the biggest amazing outcomes at the Carnival, according to Boyes, were the street people in the park who came and offered to help set up the tents. ―We didn‘t know how to set up the tipis, and a guy walked out of the trees and helped us set them up,‖ he said. ―We couldn‘t have done it without them. They stayed involved the whole time, emptying garbage and helping out.

his is an opportune time to create new norms, habits, and ways we show up in, and care for the natural world and our local community. It is time to re-evaluate how we engage in our spending. The fear of lack keeps us stuck in our patterns of scarcity and separation. When we choose to support our local businesses we keep abundance locally rolling in a circle of support. This allows access to a higher level of security, deeper relationships, and a more engaged community. Thus creating a local interdependence, where humans actually need each other and the natural world to survive in a thriving and healthy reality.

We are hungry for opportunities that have relations attached as our globalized economy has created disconnect or separation between the people and the products we are seeking. We make purchases, at a big box store, a chain store, or online, and do not realize that only a small percentage, if any, stays in our community. According to www.smalltownlove.com approximately $13 for every $100 spent stays local. When we support a local small business, up to 75 per cent stays in our community. This includes employee wages, local advertising (such as in TheGreenGazette), printing, and purchasing supplies. This outcome is much more beneficial to local prosperity.

Win*Win*Win! Some folks may figure it is out of their price range to support local. It is true that locally produced products may have a higher price tag than a similar item at a big store. However, shopping local helps support local families. You may be helping someone afford overdue dental work, or music lessons for their kids or simply helping to put food on the table. When you buy from the big guys you are putting your money behind low paying jobs and an already subsidized bottom line of multinational companies. So even if it is not your reality to always buy local, do it whenever it is possible. Real people in your community are benefitting. The payback is engaging with the people you support while you get a higher quality product. There is an added bonus of the minimized impact of not needing to ship items half way across the Earth. Globalization of our goods creates a breakdown of community as it utilizes more and more energy and resources, with less and less benefit to us and our Earth. Supporting members of your local community is an opportunity to move from consumer to citizen.

How can I participate locally?

The first step is to look around your community and closely observe what goods and services are offered.

Consider shifting just one purchase to a local option; every bit helps. You can choose to go downtown and buy from one of the many fabulous businesses. A great movement that is encouraging the buy local theme is the Small Town Love initiative across BC. You can learn more at http:// smalltownlove.com/towns, which has over 200 businesses listed Cariboo-wide, includ-

A Image: Casey Bennett ing 106 listings in Quesnel, 46 in 100 Mile House, and 60 business listings in Williams Lake. This year, celebrate BCs Buy Local Week from November 30 to December 6. This helps to keep our downtown and local economy alive and thriving.

How does it feel engaging and supporting a member of your community? Great. I love buying veggies at the farmers market.

I get to see the children with their parents and know that the money earned will nourish the lives of those smiling faces. It feels good to know my purchases at the local craft fairs will provide a livelihood for the artisans that beautifully share their skills and gifts. Here is a link listing many of the local fairs www.centralcaribooarts.com/ events/.

Bartering and sharing are other ways to keep the abundance local. We are blessed with many share sheds in this area that allow us to relieve the burden on the landfill while passing along good used items.

There are many options for buying second hand locally, both online and off. Another option is the Cariboo Gold Community Exchange group on Facebook. The group description states, ―We ALL have abundant Cariboo Gold in our lives! A useful skill, extra veggies, mentorship, tools, STUFF we no longer need, creative offerings, extra time, and companionship. A sustainable, healthy, local culture is a complete reflection of a strong and resilient community. A circle of interdependence and abundance!‖ This group encourages communication and interaction for exchange on many levels.

What gifts or skills do you have that could be shared for sale or barter in the Cariboo? Make your life richer and more locally engaged by plugging in and keeping it local. Everyone of us truly has s o me t hi ng t o o f f e r .

It is up to you. There are so many ways you can shift from being a consumer to a member of a resilient community.

Chanti Holtl enjoys the quiet life near Horsefly, BC with her partner and boys.

She also loves being a *communitarian*, organizing and participating in events that bring folks together to celebrate and support a joyful, abundant community life!

Williams Lake Winter Carnival is a free family event in Boitanio Park on January 30 and 31. Photo: Jesaja Class

―I couldn‘t believe the numbers that first day. The Lions Club served 500 breakfasts before the event even started, and there were 200 people lined up to go on the sleigh rides. Kids got to do stuff they never did before. I could not believe how many people learned to cross-country ski: the ski club was thrilled.‖ He said they had great vendors at the Carnival—there were crepes, East Indian food, bannock, chili, a BBQ, beaver tails, Montreal smoked meat sandwiches, poutines, and soups. ―We had a big bonfire keeping everybody warm, a volunteer in an Ella costume from Frozen with kids lined up to get their photos taken with her, and a volunteer safety co-ordinator with Level 3 First Aid,‖ he noted. ―This was incredible team work. ―I believe there has been a bit of division in our community in some ways, and thought we needed some inspiration to come together. I wanted us to be able to heal, and heal together—where everybody could bring something from their culture to share. When that happens, I think we really start to understand each other and remember that we‘re all humans,‖ he explained.

Boyes said everybody brought something unique: food, music, singing, drumming, art, and history. ―It was so positive and so powerful. For example, there were horses and sleighs from Nemiah. Horses and sleighs are a part of their life and they brought it here. The snowshoe volunteers shared something that‘s a big part of their world—some of them hunt in their snowshoes and they had so much to teach. It was an opportunity for people to share their history and bring together a community. It‘s not about how different we are; it‘s celebrating what we share,‖ he said. ―I did this because I love Williams Lake and hold it close to my heart. There was phenomenal excitement in the air and the smiles on all the faces were unforgettable.‖ The 2016 Williams Lake Winter Carnival will be held January 30 and 31 in Boitanio Park from 9:00am to 4:00pm. For more information, including how you can get involved, visit www.wlwintercarnival.com or follow the group on Facebook.

LeRae Haynes is a freelance writer, song writer, community coordinator for Success by 6, member of Perfect Match dance band and instigator of lots of music with kids.

By Ronald M. Powell, Ph.D

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f wireless devices, such as WiFi, are used in your schools, then the health of your staff, your teachers, and your students can be at risk. But this problem can be successfully addressed, and with benefit to all.

Background: Wireless devices transmit information using radiofrequency/ microwave radiation. The international biomedical research community has been studying the impact of such radiation on biological entities for decades, but more intensely in recent years. Thousands of studies have been published in peerreviewed biomedical journals. And so many of these studies are finding biological effects of concern that immediate responsive action is warranted. Further, these biological effects occur at levels of radiation far lower than earlier understood. Simply stated, a worldwide health crisis is emerging and is becoming a hallmark of the 21st century. The international biomedical research community is trying to warn us; but, as a society, we are not yet listening. I hope this message will help to change that.

As a scientist, I urge you to look into the health impact of the radiofrequency/ microwave radiation produced by wireless devices. Examples of wireless devices of concern in our environment are WiFi in all of its forms—cellphones and cell towers (especially those located on school grounds); cordless phones; wireless computers, whether desktop, laptop, or tablet versions; wireless baby monitors; wireless smart electricity meters; emerging wireless smart appliances; and, microwave ovens (which always leak radiation).

This crisis is the consequence of many factors. Here are some of them: All living things are bioelectrical in nature. That is why electrocardiograms and electroencephalograms work. They, of course, measure the tiny electrical signals that operate the heart and the brain. The critical tasks performed by these tiny electrical signals, and so many other electrical signals in all living things, can be disrupted by radiofrequency/microwave radiation.

The levels of manmade radiofrequency/microwave radiation in our environment are increasing exponentially and already exceed, by many orders of magnitude, the levels at which all life on Earth evolved. Simply stated, we are drowning in a rising sea of manmade radiofrequency/microwave radiation.

Experts warn that microwave radiation created by WiFi routers and multiple wireless devices in the classroom may adversely affect the health of children and teachers.

Graphic credit: wifi-in-schools-australia.org and safeinschool.org

“

The invisible nature of radiofrequency/ microwave radiation leaves the public and the decision-makers unaware of the rising levels of radiation around them.

The genuine usefulness of wireless devices promotes denial of the risks.

The intense advertising, the economic power, and the political power of profitable wireless industries enable them to dominate the public dialogue and to hold sway over government regulators and legislators.

Current federal standards for limiting the exposure of the public to radiofrequency/ microwave radiation are outdated and overly permissive. Those standards are based on thermal heating alone. In effect, the government claims that if you are not cooked too much by the radiation, then you are fine. Those federal standards ignore the many biological effects that occur at much lower levels of radiation, leaving the public unprotected.

Federal and state governments are advocating unlimited expansion of wireless technology, and are even co-funding such expansion and mandating the acceptance of

wireless technology by the public. Such actions reflect a widespread lack of understanding of, or willful blindness to, the underlying science and its consequences for public health.

Some of the more serious consequences of exposure to radiofrequency/microwave radiation (such as DNA damage, cancer, and infertility) are especially nefarious because they give no early warning signs.

Other consequences of exposure do give early warning signs (such as sleep disruption, headaches, fatigue, ringing in the ears, memory loss, dizziness, heart arrhythmia, and many others); but, those signs are too often dismissed because they can have other causes as well, complicating identification of the true cause.

The absence of routine training of physicians in the biological effects of radiofrequency/microwave radiation makes it difficult for physicians to identify the causes and to provide responsive guidance.

Even aware individuals cannot control their exposure in any environment shared with others, because the radiation around

them, much like second-hand smoke, is forced on them by unaware individuals.

Only governments can fully solve this problem, but they are currently part of the problem. For now the public will have to protect itself, and that will require public education.

Fortunately, many of the services that wireless devices offer can be realized with much safer wired devices. The wired devices achieve connectivity with fiber-optic, coaxial, or ethernet cables. The wired devices are faster, more reliable, and more cyber secure. They are, however, less mobile, often less convenient, and somewhat more expensive to install. But those drawbacks pale in comparison to the benefits of good health.

Simply stated, public schools can protect their staff, teachers, and students from the health risks posed by wireless devices, including WiFi, by converting to safe wired connectivity. If your schools lack the resources to convert now, do seriously consider shutting down your wireless devices anyway and converting as soon as you can. Your schools can advance learning without leaving a trail of illness, some of which can be lifelong.

As a suggested starting place in exploring the concerns about radiation from wireless devices, I have appended an ―Annotated List of References‖ and an ―Annotated List of Videos.‖Please view, especially, video (1) called ―Wi-Fi in Schools, the Facts‖, made in Australia, on page 6.* *Complete document including references available at https://goo.gl/rFsDoo Ronald M. Powell, Ph.D., 20316 Highland Hall Drive, Montgomery Village, MD 20886-4007 Phone: 301-926-7568, Email: ronpowell@verizon.net Ronald M. Powell, is a retired US government scientist (Ph.D., Applied Physics, Harvard University, 1975). During his government career, he worked for the Executive Office of the President, the National Science Foundation, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. For those organizations, respectively, he addressed federal research and development program evaluation, energy policy research, and measurement development in support of the electronics and electrical-equipment industries and the biomedical research community. He currently interacts with other scientists and with physicians around the world on the impact of the environment – including the radiofrequency/microwave

environment – on human health.

Science Matters:

By David Suzuki

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ustainable development means different things to different people. The concept was popularized in 1987 by the groundbreaking Brundtland Commission report to the United Nations, “Our Common Future.”

Over the past three decades it has entered conversations around global poverty, health, environmental quality, and social justice. It’s even been used to rationalize the ongoing extraction of globally significant natural resources, and some people think it means sustainable growth. (Some cynics said environmentalists got the sustainable part while corporations got the development.)

It‘s possible to extract resources with attention to environmental consequences, but unless it‘s done in ways that ensure the planet remains healthy enough to support human life, where all people enjoy peace, health, and food security, can it really be called sustainable?

In 2000, world leaders convened under the UN umbrella to establish a set of objectives and strategies that became known as the Millennium Development Goals. Although they weren‘t perfect, they offered new ways of looking at and targets for addressing issues like poverty, hunger, disease, lack of adequate shelter, gender equality, education, and environmental sustainability.

Fifteen years later, on its 70th anniversary, the UN has established new objectives called Sustainable Development Goals. Building on the previous strategy, these include 17 goals and 169 specific targets. Developed through years of consultation among people from around the world, including social and environmental science and policy experts, the program aims to secure global peace and prosperity.

A UN statement offers a compelling vision: ―A world in which consumption and production patterns and use of all natural resources – from air to land, from rivers, lakes, and aquifers to oceans and seas – are sustainable. One in which democracy, good governance, and the rule of law, as well as an enabling environment at national and international levels, are essential for sustainable development, including sustained and inclusive economic growth, social development, environmental protection, and the eradication of poverty and hunger. One in which development and the

By Oliver Berger

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arlier this summer I was heading home when I noticed stuffed garbage bags on the side of the road. One after the other, on the left side, then on the right side, then on the left side again. All of a sudden, there was some movement bobbing around in the ditch. It was a man I recognized and had spotted on my way home many times. He wore a reflective vest, handled a picker in one hand, and carried a garbage bag in the other. He was picking up garbage.

This time, however, I couldn‘t just keep driving. I had to stop. Once pulled over, I shut the engine off, hopped out, and walked back along the shoulder of the busy rural road to this amazing soul and introduced myself.

He told me he had been picking garbage for many years and that he didn‘t want any recognition for it. Rather, he does it only to keep fit and because, as he bluntly put it… ―I hate garbage!‖ Luckily, I had my picker in my truck, so I grabbed it and quickly joined in. We worked for an hour or so, picking up plastic bags, many cans and bottles, fast food packaging, random pieces of cardboard, a plastic chair, and a huge chunk of tin. We rounded all his garbage bags off the side of the road and I offered to take the eight heavy bags plus all the extras to the dump for him. He was happy and I felt good.

Sitting beside a collection of waste from the now-clean roadside behind him, Oliver wields his refillable mug and bottle and is happy to not to be part of the problem. Photo: Gilly

So much junk ends up on the sides of the roads in our world, from blowing out of truck beds or just from the simple, careless act of tossing stuff out of vehicle windows—especially beverage containers like water bottles and coffee cups. Just ask a road biker; they will attest to this.

That rural road garbage picker inspired me so much I now spend a few hours here

application of technology are climatesensitive, respect biodiversity, and are resilient. One in which humanity lives in harmony with nature and in which wildlife and other living species are protected.‖ Although I take issue with some elements, such as the reference to ―economic growth‖ (an outdated concept in an overpopulated world with increasingly scarce resources), I‘m encouraged that the new plan builds on the Millennium Goals to offer more specific and stronger targets for protecting the air, land, water, and natural environments on which we depend for health, well-being, and survival. There‘s also a specific goal for protecting oceans, recognizing that ocean health is essential for peace, food security, and resiliency in the face of global warming.

The Sustainable Development Goals take effect in January 2016, when UN member states are expected to enact policies and legislation to realize them and their associated targets. Canada is part of the UN, and up until 2010 we held a coveted seat on the UN Security Council.

We‘re one of the world‘s wealthiest countries with the eighth-highest standard of living, according to the Human Development Index. Are we contributing in ways that will help the world meet the goals, or are we hindering their chances for success?

It‘s something for our new government to consider. Our newly elected leaders

have a lot on their plates, domestically and internationally — including the December UN climate summit in Paris. As with the climate negotiations, a privileged country like Canada is in an ideal position to show leadership on these development goals, especially if we expect poorer UN member countries to do their part. Canada must work with other nations to create transformative change that protects what we have and leaves the world in better shape for our children and grandchildren.

The UN goals may be lofty, but without them, and without real action to achieve them, the state of our economies, environment, and social conditions will inevitably continue to degrade. And peace will elude us. That‘s not the future I want.

The fate of the world is up to all of us.

We need to encourage all levels of government, along with relevant organizations, to understand and contribute to the plan‘s success. Let‘s ensure Canada is a proud partner in realizing the progressive change the UN Sustainable Development Goals promote.

Dr. David Suzuki is a scientist, broadcaster, author, and co-founder of the David Suzuki Foundation. Written with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Western Region science projects manager, Bill Wareham.

and there picking up garbage in different places. Back alleys, trail head parking lots, along a local biking or hiking trail, even just in front of my own home are some of my favourite spots to pick.

This good Environmental Samaritan did not just inspire me. Lately, I spot and hear from other people adopting a stretch of road, or a block in town, to pick up litter. Just this morning while I was walking through downtown Williams Lake, I saw two women picking up trash on the sidewalks and parking lots. What a difference an army of garbage pickers can make in and around our beautiful area.

Speaking of coffee cups, about four years ago I decided I no longer needed to use single-use coffee cups. I made this decision on January 1, making it my New Year‘s Resolution for that year. In the beginning, it was hard to remember and bring my refillable mug, so to remember I would punish myself by not indulging in my morning java that day. Ouch. I quickly learned to pack an extra refillable mug in my car to avoid these situations. There was the odd day, however, where I did cave in, so I diligently kept track of my weak moments and only committed this cheat 10 times during that year. Every year since then has been flawless and now I am proud to say I‘ve only used 10 single-use coffee cups in four years!

Reducing our impact on the environment directly comes down to reducing our consumption in our lifestyles. It is hard to change overnight; this is why I chose the

New Year as a chance to change one small habit in my life. One little change every year can be beneficial to our environment and our future.

Since my personal ban on single-use coffee cups, I have also stopped buying plastic water bottles and carry around a refillable ceramic-topped bottle in a wool sock. Furthermore, I refuse straws in my drinks when I go out for meals, and use only reusable bags when shopping. And if I forget that reusable bag, well, then I can only buy what I can carry in my hands or stuff in my jacket pockets. This mistake just so happens to also save me from spending too much money buying extra food or things I really do not need.

So, what‘s your New Year's Resolution going to be this year?

Oliver Berger has a 34-year degree in life, starting out in the Spokin Lake area, spending adolescence in Williams Lake, and then venturing throughout the world on a quest of always learning new things.

His priorities include dedication to and education about waste management.

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By Margaret-Anne Enders

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n our house, we recently celebrated a sunny fall Saturday with a garage sale. It felt so good to purge stuff from the house that I haven’t used in years. When I was doing the big clear-out, some items were easy to put into the get-rid-of pile, while others took a bit more deliberation. My grandmother’s linens and dishes fell into the latter category. While I haven’t used the delicate doilies, neatly pressed bridge cloths, and blue china soup tureens, they still provided a link to my history that was hard to sever. I have many antiques from my grandparents: the wooden rocking chair that Grandma Enders sat in to nurse my dad, Great-grandpa Malloch’s shaving stand from Scotland, Grandma Byers’ cedar chest. While I treasure these connections to my roots, I also have the sense that they tie me down. But when I think about getting rid of them to lighten my load of possessions, I feel anxious. Why am I worried about losing things when I already have so much?

On that same sunny Saturday, 20 million people were biding their time in refugee camps or in the midst of a dangerous journey, having fled their countries because of war, violence, and conflict. The worldwide refugee situation is at crisis proportions.

In fact, this has been a crisis for many years; it just took a heart-breaking photo of a small boy on a beach to rouse the world‘s compassion. Sorrow and outrage are strong, justifiable feelings, and inspire us to act, but after the matching donations are pledged and paid, what comes next? The refugees need homes. Yes, they also need medical care, safe living conditions, and nutritious food in the camps, but in the end, they need homes. And that is a tough step.

Why is it that we can give money, but are hesitant to open up our country, our town, our neighbourhoods, even our homes to those whose greatest need is a home?

What is it that causes us to pull back from such great need? The answers are complex and include concerns about the economy‘s ability to support more newcomers and a sense of fear about refugees‘ customs and values. However, I think at least part of the answer lies in how we view our own situations: do we operate from a sense of scarcity or from a sense of abundance?

We live in a country of great wealth. It is true that not all are wealthy and that systems and policies make it very difficult for some to share in Canada‘s economic benefits. However, many families have more than one car, more than one TV, computer, and cellphone. Many families live in houses that have more bedrooms than the number of people in the house, with 2, 3, and 4 bathrooms. Many families have travel trailers, mountain bikes, quads, and sleds.

Many families are able to go on a holiday every year.

Many have RRSPs and are saving for retirement.

This certainly is wealth. The trouble is that many families also don‘t see this as wealth. They feel stressed out by concerns about money, and may be loaded with debt. They perceive they are barely getting by.

A friend was recently telling me about one of the reasons she and her family left Ft. McMurray. She said there was a lot of pressure to keep up with the Joneses, to keep buying the newest and biggest of everything, and a sense of entitlement to having the biggest and the best. Perhaps the ambition to keep climbing the social ladder wouldn‘t be so bad if it weren‘t for the accompanying consequence of attachment. The attachment that we have to things tends to make us needy and then greedy.

When people operate from a sense of scarcity, it doesn‘t matter how much they have. There is still the anxiety that it is not enough. They live in a mindset where there are winners and losers, and if you don‘t

keep accumulating, you risk being on the losing end.

That is what seems to be happening with the refugee situation. While Canada is not a perfect country, most of us have access to decent accommodations, clean water, sanitation, education, and recreational opportunities. Yet, there rises a fear that too many newcomers will take away what we have. Scarcity whispers that we don‘t have enough to share.

An attitude of abundance is characterized by a sense of gratitude for all that one has and a knowing that there is enough for all. It leads to sharing because there is much to share. One of the side effects of an attitude of abundance is a feeling of positivity about the future. This doesn‘t mean those who practice abundance are any financially richer than the scarcity folks. It also doesn‘t mean they don‘t plan for the future and just trust blindly that it will all be okay. Those who see abundance may be quite lowincome or may have seven figure RRSPs. What they share is a sense that there is enough to go around and there is much to give.

And when there is much to give, that sense of anxiety, of neediness tends to loosen.

So how does all of this relate to my garage sale and my clinging to family antiques? I realize, with some discomfort, that my attachment was coming out of a mentality of scarcity, the opposite of the sense of abundance for which I strive. When I looked at a checklist of abundance and scarcity, I was disappointed to find I identified with many characteristics on the scarcity list. I still have a long way to go to a truly open heart. But the garage sale was a step in that journey of letting go of the attachment to stuff, to the fear of not having. I did not sell the furniture that is in constant use by my family, but I did part with dishes and doilies, aprons and pillowcases.

The letting go of those prized possessions led to a sense of relief, a sense of freedom, and an opening of my heart. It is the letting go of need and greed and the opening to the joys of abundance that will help us as a country and a community to open our doors, our wallets, our lives to those whose scarcity is real.

In her work with the Multicultural Program at Cariboo Mental Health Association, as well as in her life as a parent, partner, faithful seeker, left-leaning Christian, paddler, and gardener, Margaret-Anne Enders is thrilled to catch glimpses of the Divine in both the ordinary and the extraordinary. To find out more about the Women’s Spirituality Circle, call her at (2 5 0 ) 305-4426 or visit www.womenspiritualitycircle.wordpress.com or on Facebook at Women’s Spirituality Circle in Williams Lake.

By Erin Hitchcock

T

here exists a perception that eating organic is expensive and reserved for the elite, like it’s some kind of fad or high-end hippie trend. Many don’t realize, however, that those who choose organic simply don’t want to consume toxins.

Woody Harrelson nailed it right on the head when he said, ―Economically, many folks don‘t feel they can afford organic.

While this may be true in some cases, I think more often than not it‘s a question of priority. I feel it‘s one of the most important areas of concern ecologically, because the petrochemical giants – DuPont, Monsanto – make huge money by poisoning us.‖ While organics can sometimes be more expensive than non-organics, their benefits far outweigh the health and environmental costs of consuming chemicals, such as glyphosate (the main ingredient in Monsanto‘s Roundup), which is found in numerous non -organic foods items, in drinking water, and even in women‘s breastmilk.

Moms Across America and Sustainable Pulse recently released results of a study looking at glyphosate levels in breastmilk in American women. The results showed high levels in 30 per cent of the samples tested, suggesting glyphosate levels build up in one‘s body over time. But that shouldn‘t persuade breastfeeding mamas to use formula instead. Most formulas, according to the Environmental Working Group, contain glyphosate as well.

This neurotoxin has been deemed ―probably carcinogenic‖ by the World Health Organization, yet it is sprayed on crops across the globe. In the US alone (where a lot of our food comes from)180 to 185 million pounds of it were sprayed on crops in 2007, according to the latest figures from the US Environmental Protection Agency. World pesticide use in general amounted to approximately 5.2 billion pounds in both 2006 and 2007.

Genetically modified crops receive the heaviest amounts of pesticides, as they are predominantly engineered to withstand the chemicals.

According to Dr. M. Huber, professor emeritus from Purdue University, in an interview with Dr. Joseph Mecola, glyphosate is an endocrine disrupter that is toxic to liver and kidney tissues and kills microorganisms in the gastro- intestinal tract. He said it can also lead to birth defects, hormonal disruption, cancer, gluten

(L) Carrots pulled from the garden at the beginning of November. Something tells me we won't be vitamin A deficient this winter. (R) Growing your own GMO-free and pesticide -free veggies helps ensure you avoid toxins in your food while also keeping grocery bills low, making it easier to afford more delicious and nutritious organic food. Photos: Erin Hitchcock

intolerance, leaky gut, Crohn‘s, Alzheimer‘s, and autism.

But, of course, it‘s not just glyphosate.

There are many other toxic pesticides laced in our foods, including 2,4- D and a slew of others in a long list of chemicals that ultimately find their way into our bodies and environment.

If you buy packaged food not labelled as organic, you can bet it most likely contains GMOs (genetically modified organisms) and pesticides. GMO Free USA recently published results of independent lab testing showing the corn in Kellogg‘s Fruit Loops cereal is 100 per cent GMO and contains DNA sequences found in insecticideproducing Bt and Roundup Ready corn. It also found sequences present in Roundup Ready GMO soy and high levels of glyphosate.

Look at the label on your favourite packaged foods and chances are many of the ingredients are genetically modified and therefore contain pesticide residues. The biggest GM crops are alfalfa, canola, corn, cotton, papaya, soy, sugar beets, zucchini, and yellow squash and come under many names including soy lecithin and corn syrup.

When I don‘t eat organic, I always regret it and just don‘t feel well. I know it‘s my body reacting to what I have just done to it.

My sister also notices a difference, particularly when it comes to wheat. She thought she was gluten intolerant but it turns out she‘s poison intolerant. When she ate non-organic wheat, she had insomnia, averaging only two to four hours of sleep a night for five years, and had difficulty gaining weight. She also had digestive issues and would be so drowsy during the day she

had blurred vision and would get lightheaded. After switching to organic wheat, all of the problems disappeared and now she sleeps eight to nine hours a night and is at a healthier weight.

While genetically modified foods and pesticides should be banned all together or at the very least labelled so we are aware of what we‘re buying, progress is being made due to the power of the consumer. I believe how we spend our money and raising awareness have the biggest impacts, especially when it comes to food since this is something we all cannot live without.

Dozens of countries have adopted GMO bans and/or labelling laws, and in 2014 Sri Lanka became the first country to ban glyphosate entirely due to studies linking it to kidney failure.

Even certain stores are leading the way to a healthier future. Whole Foods has pledged to provide full GMO transparency to its customers by 2018 and restaurant chain Chipotle Mexican Grill recently announced it will only cook with non- GMO ingredients. It would be great to see some of our local stores and restaurants follow suit.

In addition to health reasons, choosing organic helps reduce pollutio n a nd pr o mote s healthy ecosystems. It supports family farms that protect biodiversity, instead of funding companies that patent their GMO seeds, such as Monsanto. It is illegal for farmers to save patented seeds for following

plantings, an issue that causes financial hardship throughout the world.

Not all organic food is expensive. If you look hard enough and pay attention to deals, you‘ll often find these products to be very reasonable.

Consider leaving items such as pop and processed foods on the shelves so you can spend a little bit more on whole, organic foods and then prepare meals from scratch.

Your grocery bill will likely shrink in the end. In addition to the grocery store, visit farmers‘ markets, the Cariboo Growers Coop, and Margetts Meats where there are many organic and local options available, too. You could also grow some of your own food, which can help with grocery store costs (and nothing beats food fresh from your own garden).

Try making small steps at first. Commit a day or an afternoon to making your own freezer meals you can pop in the oven when you get home from work, if time and convenience are issues.

Unhealthy food isn‘t just about cholesterol, gluten, sugar, carbs, saturated and trans fats, and sodium. It is also often loaded with chemicals that can cause fatal diseases. Good food is clean, nutritious, sustainable, and not genetically altered. It‘s supposed to nourish us, not degrade our health.

If you would like to know how much glyphosate may be in your body or water, vis it www.detoxproject.org/glyphosatetesting-test-yourself/ or instructions on how to send in your urine or tap water for testing.

Erin Hitchcock is a stay-at-home mom, journalist, anti-GMO advocate, and local organizer for March Against Monsanto. If you have any comments, column suggestions, or questions for her, email erinhitchcock.cariboo@gmail.com

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By Brianna van de Wijngaard Food Action Coordinator Williams Lake Food Policy Council

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ust about every year for the last decade or two, we have been encouraged to shop local for the holidays. And most of those reading this editorial likely already do: you’re reading TheGreenGazette, and you’re awesome! But, as the holidays approach yet again, we want to take a look at where that trend has taken us since the local shopping shift made its return. Is the trend still on the rise? What have we seen in the way of advantages, both to consumers, businesses, and the environment? And what are the economics of shopping local?

The buy local trend is without a doubt still very popular: campaigns still pop up every year, promoting the local economy, and according to the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), about 45 per cent of consumers have made efforts to buy Canadian or local-made products in the previous year. We have our very own campaign – Love Williams Lake (at www.lovewilliamslake.com) – to promote the small business owners in our community. But another trend continually on the rise that inherently competes with shopping local is that of the thrifty consumer.

According to the same BDC survey results, shoppers have become even more aggressive bargain-seekers, especially in the last 5-10 years. Getting a deal is something to be proud of, and – with online shopping increasing in popularity – there is an entirely new market to shop in, and one that is often the cheapest because they can afford to charge less than brick-and-mortar retailers, and offer a much wider range of sellers.

These competing trends can make local shopping tough, especially for small towns like Williams Lake, Quesnel, 100 Mile, and the like. Residents are much more likely to support local businesses because they truly are often their neighbours, friends, and acquaintances. There is much more incentive to shop locally, whereas in city centers, they often don‘t know the owner or producer. But, being smaller town centers, there is also much less variety than what you may find in a metro area, so shopping online or in a bigger store is tempting. Smaller towns utilize the online market less than city centers, but, even if they didn‘t, as of 2013, just under one-third of small Canadian retailers had an online presence, according to the BDC report summary. And yet, 68 per cent of Canadians own a smartphone in 2015 and are using them more and more to research products, and the businesses that sell them.

The benefits to shopping local, however, remain true. More money does stay in the community when people spend it on locally-owned businesses—almost double, according to The New Economics Foundation (NEF). NEF researcher David Boyle makes an interesting interpretation: it means those purchases are twice as efficient locally as they would have been otherwise. He also projects local economies do not suffer because of too little cash

coming in. They suffer because too much cash flows out. Once it leaves the circulatory system of a local economy, it‘s gone and can no longer benefit that community in other forms. Admittedly, local products can and do cost more so it will come down to sacrifice. We shop a little less so it can mean a lot more.

The locally-made shopper is also often the conscientious shopper, by default.

They look for ethically made products that have less of an impact on the environment‘s health, and their family‘s health.

Locally-made products especially have a lower impact on the environment simply because of their limited travel. You also have a producer or business owner right there in front of you, if you are unsure and want to ask questions about what they‘re selling. They feel much more incentive to sell sustainably-made products for the same reason.

There are naysayers in the local shopping streak—there is always at least one!

Some of their arguments speak to lack of a definition of what it means to be local: does it apply to locally-owned franchises?

Or businesses that were once local, but expanded? This is really nickel and diming, though. Most people know what local means, and it is often bigger corporations that cloud its definition in an effort to jump on the bandwagon.

But these same naysayers do support a laudable solution: if you‘re ever in doubt, ask questions. Always. Because regardless of whether or not a product is being sold by a local vendor, the same criteria should still be met, and consumers should always ask the same questions about a product.

Does it have negative effects on the environment in its production? Is the producer and/or owner a local (trust factor)?

Does the price therefore reflect the quality of this purchase? Something sold or produced locally doesn‘t always mean it is of superior quality, or sustainably produced.

But the main difference is, that local producer or owner has to look their customers in the eye, quite literally, and will more likely sell products they can be proud of.

For all the rest, use that smartphone to research, so you can be confident you‘re buying gifts that are healthier for you, your family, and the environment.

Brianna is a trained master gardener and before she moved to the Cariboo in March, 2013, she lived on and off Vancouver Island for 20 years. She attended Vancouver Island University, where she graduated with a BA in Global Studies and Geography, and now operates Puddle Produce Urban Farms in Williams Lake.

By Adam McLeod, ND, BSc

T

here has been a recent surge of interest in immunotherapies and cancer care. These therapies are a major paradigm shift from conventional chemotherapy. In the past, cytotoxic chemotherapy was the only option available to many patients.

This involves the use of compounds that are toxic to both cancerous cells and normal cells. In these cases it becomes a delicate balance between killing cancer and maintaining a functioning immune system. Immunotherapy focuses on stimulating the immune system and helping your own defences fight cancer rather than injecting a toxin that directly damages cancer cells.

There are several different types of immunotherapy but the underlying mechanism is very similar. When an immune cell interacts with a cancer cell there are several processes that must occur for your immune system to effectively destroy the cancer. Some molecular pathways stimulate the immune system while others in-

hibit immune function. One immunotherapy drug known as Ipilimumab (Yervoy) blocks CTLA-4, which normally down regulates the immune system. When this pathway is blocked, your immune system is more likely to become activated in the presence of cancer because your immune cells are no longer being inactivated by this CTLA-4 pathway.

Cancer cells are always looking for ways to grow and evade detection by the immune system. Many cancer cells will actually increase their concentration of a protein called PD-L1 as this will inactivate immune cells when they come in contact with it. By doing this it essentially creates a field around the tumour that inactivates the immune system as it gets close to the tumour. There is a drug called Nivolumab that blocks the PD-1 receptors on T-cells so the cancer can no longer hide from your immune system. What is exciting about this pathway is a wide range of cancers are dependent on this mechanism to survive.

These immunotherapies have elicited durable clinical responses and, in a fraction of patients, long-term remissions where patients exhibit no clinical signs of cancer for many years.

Many people have the assumption that if a drug is only stimulating your immune system, it should not have side effects.

This is not true. These immunotherapies can have significant side effects. Your im-

mune system has inhibitory pathways for a reason. These pathways prevent your immune system from indiscriminately attacking healthy cells in the body. When you remove this inhibition they are much more likely to attack the wrong cells and this can cause substantial damage in some patients. There are often gastrointestinal toxicities and use of these drugs significantly increases the incidence of autoimmune diseases. Although these drugs show great promise, we are still in the early phases of understanding how to use them more effectively to treat cancer.

More patients need to recognize there are also natural options that can be used to support your immune system while on conventional cancer therapies. These natural approaches are safe when used properly but you need professional guidance from a licensed naturopathic doctor to know what is appropriate for you. Integrative oncology excels at supporting the immune system during chemotherapy and radiation.

These supports should be used during chemotherapy and radiation, not just after the therapy is complete.

There are many effective natural immune supports that are well supported in the scientific literature. One of these supports is an herb known as Astragalus membranaceus. Astragalus is an herb commonly given to help fight respiratory infections. It is well established in the scien-

tific literature as an immune-boosting supplement that has applications with cancer.

The mechanism of this immune-boosting effect is poorly defined, but the results are undeniable. I have personally witnessed patients who have had an increase in their neutrophil and white blood cell count during chemotherapy. Their medical oncologists were shocked to see the numbers improve during such an intense chemotherapy regimen. Because of its safety and effectiveness, astragalus is regularly used with chemotherapy. It is usually a great way to support the immune system during chemotherapy, but as with any natural supplement, there are exceptions to its use.

You must have professional guidance when developing a cancer treatment plan.

A naturopathic doctor can help you to develop a safe and effective treatment plan.

Dr. Adam McLeod is a naturopathic doctor (ND), BSc. (Hon) Molecular biology, motivational speaker, and international bestselling author. He currently practices at his clinic in Vancouver, British Columbia where he focuses on integrative oncology. http://www.yaletownnaturopathic.com.

Green Business Feature:

By LeRae Haynes

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mproving and enriching the lives of women, their families, and their communities is at the heart of Worth Every Penny, a social enterprise created by Penny Hutchinson, the driving force and the caring heart behind this innovative, non-profit start-up organization.

She describes herself as a lifetime social entrepreneur who has been helped and supported along the way and says that‘s what she wants for others. ―A social entrepreneur is someone with innovative solutions to society‘s most pressing social problems,‖ she explains. ―It‘s someone who is ambitious and persistent in tackling societal issues and offering new ideas for change. ―I believe women are leaders in our world, and to me, being a social entrepreneur is all about having heart and soul in your business.‖ Worth Every Penny is under the umbrella of ESP Consulting Ltd, which has employment service offices in Williams Lake and Quesnel. Hutchinson is a certified coach and workshop facilitator, is expanding in First Nations development with an innovative group in Victoria as well as the Cariboo-Chilcotin, and is currently working on two books.

She is the CEO of ESP Consulting Ltd, and five years ago she started focusing on entrepreneurial women in business. That‘s where Worth Every Penny was born. She began putting together a collective of young women artisans and entrepreneurs from the Cariboo-Chilcotin and places around the world, creating opportunities for them to sell their art, opening a beautiful gallery in her home to showcase their treasures.

All profit from Worth Every Penny Lakeside Gallery goes back into the business. Her Worth Every Penny team includes an in-house designer for their medicine bags, kimonos, cushions, purses, dream catchers, bracelets, and jewellery. ―I supply the fabrics and supplies, buy the items direct from the local young women, and sell them,‖ she said. ―This group of women bring skill, talent and creativity to the team; they‘re the ones who co-ordinate the gallery sales we have here.‖ Worth Every Penny connects customers with the stories of the artisans and sup-

Worth Every Penny president Penny Hutchinson (Left) and designer/merchandiser Maeghan Dufour (Right) demonstrate drumming techniques taught at one of the unique workshops put on at the Worth Every Penny Lakeside Gallery. Photo: Lisa Anderson

pliers, adding value and meaning to their purchases. ―All our unique or limited edition goods have certificates of provenance and an interpretation that tells the story of each item and producer. We explore the world and its treasures looking for enduring style over fashion; we import and shape new markets,‖ she says.

She currently buys in Canada, Australia, Mexico, India, Belize, and Africa, as well as throughout the Cariboo-Chilcotin. ―We have women from all over the world with items in the gallery, including Chilcotin and Shuswap women,‖ she says.―We either sell their product on consignment or buy from them direct.‖ At her home gallery there is furniture, and home décor including baskets, wall hangings, textiles, pottery, paintings, and sculpture. There are photographs, greeting cards, carvings, and drums.

She says some of the women with Worth Every Penny are artists trying to make it in the world: some of them are single mothers; some of women have their own businesses, and need income to support them. ―I do this because it fills me with gratitude to be able to support other women in realizing their dreams,‖ she says. ―My passion for the future is to continue to help other entrepreneurial women. I am living my dream every day—that makes me feel incredibly humbled. It‘s been a soulful journey and I‘ve learned so much.‖ Besides scheduled shopping events between June and October, her home gal-

lery is also used for healing workshops including drumming, restorative exercise, and essential oils. ―We offer courses on how to paint and refurbish furniture and we welcome guest workshop facilitators— this is a beautiful space for a workshop,‖ she explains. ―I also hold ‗team days‘ here for small groups. They‘re healing and inspiring, and you can also shop in the gallery and enjoy the lending library.‖ Another passion for Hutchinson is First Nations people and the sustainability of their communities. Her heritage on her father‘s side is Shuswap and her mother‘s is rooted in three generations in the Chilcotin at Riske Creek. She has been actively

exploring her role in Truth and Reconciliation with people in both the Tsilhqot‘in and Secwepemc Nations. ―My long-term vision is of a thriving network of indigenous micro-businesses and co -operatives— investing skills in return for individual wealth generation and community economic growth,‖ she said.

Her business life is dedicated to providing support and guidance in business development, with a transition to support employment, arts and culture, as well as health and wellness programs. ―It matters to me about our social issues and our environment, about people and communities who live in poverty,‖ she says simply. She explains her goal is to leave behind a legacy in the form of the Cotton Foundation, named after her grandfather R.C. Cotton, who came from a noble family in England, arriving in Canada in 1887. ―I want this foundation to support women in learning and earning, continuing to support them as social entrepreneurs,‖ she says.―That‘s what has filled my life and that‘s what I want to leave behind.‖ Any entrepreneurial women in the Cariboo Region interested in gaining more experience in the social enterprise business Worth E ve r y P e nny pl e as e e mai l penny@wortheverypenny.ca or call (250) 392-0153.

LeRae Haynes is a freelance writer, song writer, community co-ordinator for Success by 6, member of Perfect Match dance band, and instigator of lots of music with kids.

By LeRae Haynes

K

ane Fraser is partner and team member at FBB Chartered Professional Accountants LLP. He also competes in extreme off-road racing events in Canada, the US, and Mexico, recently attended an Association of Research and Enlightenment conference to be certified in hypnosis and past-life regression, and regularly commits random acts of profound kindness.

He‘s also a paraplegic, and when he‘s not driving a high-octane racing vehicle, he‘s in a wheelchair.

FBB has been open less than two years and has up to 20 employees. Passionate about investing in the community, the company supports a wide range of efforts.

Fraser said a major reason for the company‘s success is they‘re all loving and kind people. ―I believe you have to be special to work here,‖ he explained.―We are kind to each other, our clients and our community—that‘s a big part of who we are. ―We practise ‗power with‘ instead of ‗power over‘ and acknowledge that the contribution from each of us is as important as any other—we make decisions collectively when it comes to our firm.‖ He explained his philosophy of life and business is based on two things his father passed on to him. ―One of the most important lessons he taught me was to treat other people the way you want to be treated. He said if you want to be treated with respect, treat people with respect. ―The second was if you want to be successful you have to have the right intention. For example, if earning money is your goal you will never be successful.

But if providing a good service and keeping your word is your goal, the money will follow. Money is like a residual effect of successful service,‖ he said. ―Here‘s an example that illustrates the two concepts I learned from my dad: what a life of service really means to me. ―One of my clients is Boys and Girls Club. I am an alumni. I belonged when I was a kid in Kamloops. At the time, I didn‘t realize their purpose—to work with youth and give them a place to go. I just thought it was a cool place to belong.

Extreme off-road racer Kane Fraser has taken on incredible physical challenges in Canada, Mexico, and the US, transferring from corporate wear in a wheelchair to mud-splattered road gear and roaring race engines: not your average accountant. Photo: Matthew Graham

Kane is a partner and team member at FBB Chartered Professional Accountants LLP. Photo: Rachel Meldrum

When I became an accountant and the local club became my client, I wanted to support them. I know what they do and the difference they make—they have a part in making me who I am,‖ he continued. ―As my client, they got me to do their audit, which is significant to their budget. I starting thinking about donating their audit to them, struggling for a few weeks. My logical mind said, ‗You can‘t do it.

Money‘s tight right now.‘ My heart kept saying, ‗You need to do it, it will make a difference. You need to trust that it will be OK.‘‖ He said the FBB team supported him enthusiastically when he decided to go with his heart. ―When Boys and Girls asked for a quote and I said we‘d do it free, the executive director was blown away. I felt really good about it—my only intention was to help them so they can continue doing their good work in our community for kids like me,‖ he added. ―This was followed by a huge boon of audits, proving my dad‘s point that if you provide the right service the money will follow.‖ In August, Fraser did the Vegas to Reno race, which is 545 miles long—the longest in the US. He and his racing partner Paul Marcotte won their class, after

and I suddenly had no brakes: the brake line had gotten ripped off. I put it in low gear and rode the last 20 miles and across the finish line. The organizer could not believe I had doubled the guy all that way.

What a great race: we finished, we won our class, and helped three people,‖ he said. ―Super awesome race!‖ Another thing Fraser does is buy random meals for people in restaurants. ―I eat out quite often and when I see people at the other tables – a single mom, some RCMP, older people – I pick up their tab anonymously. Someone found out about it once and asked me about it. ‗You look like you need some kindness today,‘ I said. Something like that can make a big difference in how that day goes for someone,‖ he added. ―Think about this,‖ he said simply. ―If you can, you should.‖

helping three fellow racers along the way. ―First of all, we towed a guy‘s bike for him—it was broken down. Next we came upon a racer who had been knocked off his bike and was lying unconscious on the track. Along with the guy I was towing, we managed to get him off the track.‖ Fraser said the guy had a badly broken hand and a head injury. ―We made him keep his helmet on, and I doubled him on my bike and, still towing the guy behind me, drove until we met up with the medihelicopter and turned him over to the medics. He freaked and refused to get on the helicopter,‖ Fraser continued.―I ended up hauling him another five miles to a fourwheel-drive ambulance, dropped him off, and continued on.‖ Finally, he said he was stopped on the track and told there was a racer ahead who had broken down on a motorcycle. ―They said to stop and tell the guy to leave his bike and walk back two miles. It was midnight, and when I found him, he didn‘t want to wander around in the desert in the dark. So, I offered to take him to the finish line with me—he could deal with his bike tomorrow. ―This last part was the roughest part of the course, and I got a flat tire and a broken wheel. We hobbled on, going downhill

LeRae Haynes is a freelance writer, song writer, community co-ordinator for Success by 6, member of Perfect Match dance band, and instigator of lots of music with kids.

By Venta Rutkauskas

S

tories, like song, lie deep in the consciousness of our humanity.

The storyteller opens up to the world of imagination and crafts a tale to suit the time. Some stories teach while others entertain; each author’s style is a unique fingerprint. When the storyteller chooses the novel as a form, the breadth of the tale grows, and it requires a great vision and dedication to see the story through.

Big Lake author Steven Hunter has two novels under his belt, the 2013 release The Cameron Ridge Conspiracy and his latest novel, Strings, released this summer. The craft of writing came later in life to Hunter, really a second career after 30 years in the public service as a social worker, supervisor, and manager. At last, he took early retirement and vowed to reclaim his muse. ―When you leave a career like that, you can lose track of your creativity,‖ Hunter explains.

Born into a highly creative and musical family, where both parents were professional classical musicians, the house was full of music. At age 18, the author took up the guitar, something he enjoys to this day.―We‘d sit around in our old farmhouse each Sunday, and my parents would duet on cello and piano,‖ says Hunter. His father was busy playing cello for all the major orchestral groups in Vancouver, Toronto, Victoria, and Winnipeg, later becoming the head of the cello program at the Victoria Conservatory. It is his father‘s cello that lies at the heart of Strings, Hunter‘s second novel.

After his father‘s death, Hunter took on the sale of his father‘s prized instrument.

Once the decision was made to let it go, the author discovered the world of fine instrument trade was fraught with fraud, not to mention some very high stakes. ―It‘s common to find that the label on the instrument does not match the actual make of the piece,‖ he says. This leads to instruments being bought and sold under false pretences and instrument authenticators are treated like celebrities. With this experience, Strings was born. Hunter created a world surrounding a San Francisco violin shop, full of some colourful craftspeople, an eccentric instrument authenticator, and his main character, a Cariboo native who is at a crossroads on his creative path.

In his first novel, The Cameron Ridge Conspiracy, the protagonist is a Secwepemc female at the time of the gold rush. It was a real leap to tell the story from this perspective, notes the author, though Hunter‘s background in social work added to his understanding of the effects of colonization on the Aboriginal population.

The novel is an historical fiction, whereas Strings is a modern day action thriller. The protagonist in Strings, Beckett (Beck) Trumaine, hits closer to home for Hunter. ―There‘s a lot of me in Beck,‖ he says.

Like the author, Beck retired from the public service early and imagined he would dedicate himself to musical composition.

The character‘s personal journey through the uncertainty that arises when the creative juices just aren‘t flowing and the path seems unclear stem from Hunter‘s own search for his creative identity. What happened for Hunter was truly unexpected: he began to write stories, not music.

His first piece was a short work of humorous fiction, published in BC Outdoors magazine. In fact, he keeps that gig going: look for ―A Canadian Tale on Last Light,‖

the publication‘s last page, in the September/October edition. Then, somehow, a larger story began to come through. By 2013, Hunter had written and released his first novel and was well into the writing of his second, Strings.

The author feels the characters in Strings are stronger than in his previous work. There is a vibrant feel to the ensemble, with rich backstories for each character and a depth that is supported by the quaint violin shop and high-stakes trade in which Beck finds himself. The contrast of the Cariboo‘s natural texture and beauty with the city scenes in the novel sharpens the sense of the friction as Beck finds his way and wrestles with his conscience. ―The title, Strings, is really a play on words,‖ adds Hunter. It describes the instruments featured in the story, but also the theme of attachment: to our past, our roots, and the relationships that define us. Beck and the whole cast of characters are faced with the necessity of change, and it isn‘t always a comfortable or graceful place to be.

For Hunter, the writing process allows for exploration and play. ―What I like the most is writing about seemingly ordinary people being challenged by extraordinary circumstances where they rise up and succeed against all odds,‖ describes Hunter.

Writing leads to observing people, a favorite pastime for the author that enriches the characters he imagines. His attention to detail sets the scene, while the colourful locations draw the reader into his world.

As a self-published author, there is much more to do than craft the tale. Once the final draft is complete, an editor is hired. For cover design, Hunter hired local artist Simone Benjamin. Another designer is hired to create the book‘s layout, page by page, and finally a printer is chosen.

With book in hand, the self-published author then moves into the marketing world, navigating the regional bookstores and the

electronic publishing realm, as well. It is a time consuming aspect of the game, often cutting into the author‘s writing time.

While Hunter publicizes the release of Strings, another novel is already in the works. It‘s another historical fiction set in the time on Canada‘s Confederation. With the promise of a cross-country railway and the Metis Red River Resistance looming in the prairies, Hunter is again exploring the world of Aboriginal issues through the Metis in context of the expanding development of Colonial Canada. Hunter describes the story: ―An Aboriginal child falls into the care of a white couple because of the decimation of her village by smallpox. Her father arrives on the scene and rescues her mother, but the child is long gone by then.

Her mother and father promise each other they will find their daughter. The story follows their quest across the country from the Cariboo to Manitoba and finally Montreal during the 1870s.‖ The Community Arts Council of Williams Lake would like you to consider supporting your local artists and artisans this holiday season. We have such a wealth of talent in our region. Have a book-lover in your family? Strings is available in Williams Lake at the Open Book and Save On Foods.You can also purchase Strings for your e-reader on most digital book sites.

Both Hunter‘s novels are available through the author‘s website www.stevenhunter.ca.

Venta Rutkauskas is currently the coordinator for the Community Arts Council of Williams Lake (CACWL). She is an advocate and lover of the arts, and since moving to the Cariboo ten years ago she has taught drama and written plays for young children, helped co-create a small gathering called Pollination, written down her dreams, and grown a baby and a garden. She is also passionate about the healing arts. To see more of her articles on local artists, and to learn about CACWL, check out www.williamslakecommunityartscouncil.co m

November 5 to 21: Murders and Unkindnesses, Station House Gallery, Williams Lake. Mixed media artists Karen Thompson and Terri Smith present a mix of sculpture, paintings, textiles, and installations featuring ravens and crows. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon Sat. Call (250) 392-6113 for more info.

Until November 8: Rotary Book Sale. Collection bins at Safeway, Save-On-Foods, Western Financial, Boitanio Mall, 150 Mile House Centre, or call (250) 392-4498 to have books picked up. Sale 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Boitanio Mall, Williams Lake.

November 5 to December 15: Uptown Art After School Art Classes. Presented by the Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre. Tuesdays 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Central Cariboo Arts Centre (90 Fourth Ave. N., Williams Lake). Contact Shelly (250) 3057466 or Annikki (250) 305-4237 .

November 6 & 7: The Cariboo Potters‘ Guild and Cariboo Art Society host a fall/ Christmas sale. Friday, Nov. 6 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 7 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Central Cariboo Arts Centre (90 Fourth Ave. N., Williams Lake).

November 6 & 7: Elks Hall Early Bird Christmas Craft Fair. Local vendors display their wares. Nov. 6 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Nov. 7 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Elks Hall (98 First Ave. S., Williams Lake). Call (250) 296-3590 for more info.

November 7: Horsefly Christmas Craft Fair and Flea Market. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Horsefly Community Hall. Call Chris (250) 620-3597 or Sharon (250) 620-3384 for more info.

November 7: Kinikinik Christmas Market.

Native art, sewing, baking, Christmas decorations, beeswax candles, jewellery, reflexology and energy work sessions, pottery, beadwork, cards from local artists, and more.

Enjoy a wholesome, all organic meal. Roast beef dinner ($22.50) or soup ($9). 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Vendors welcome. Register with Jasmin (250) 394-6000.

November 9, 16, 23, 30: Monday evening Meditations at Gendun Drubpa Buddhist Centre, Williams Lake. 7 to 8 p.m. 212 Third Avenue South Williams Lake. Phone (778) 412- 7780 for more info or vis it www.gendundrubpa.org. Closed for winter break December 6 to January 9.

November 12: McLeese Lake Volunteer Fire Department Christmas Market. Talented local artisans, handcrafted Christmas gifts, unique, one-of-a-kind items. 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

McLeese Lake Community Hall. Call Jacquie (250) 297-6334 to book a table.

November 14: First Baptist Church Free Store. All free. All welcome. Donations can be dropped off Nov. 4, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Nov. 7, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Event Nov. 14 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call (250) 392-4937 or (250) 392-9414 for more information.

November 16: Program info night for Applied Sustainable Ranching Certificate. 7 p.m. Thompson Rivers University, Williams Lake campus. Phone (250) 392-8020 or email wlmain@tru.ca for more information.

November 18: Svalbard with Allison Ruault. One of the world‘s northernmost

inhabited areas known for its rugged, remote terrain of glaciers and frozen tundra sheltering polar bears, Svalbard reindeer, and Arctic foxes. Learn about Allison‘s journey circumnavigating the archipelago by small ship. 7 p.m. Scout Island Nature House, Williams Lake. Call (250) 398-8532 for more info.

November 19: Baby Fest. A free information fair for families with babies and young children. 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Gibraltar Room, Williams Lake. Call (250) 398-9848 for more info.

November 19 & 20: Two-day business planning course for agri- food processors.

Class limited to 20 participants. $30 per person (cash or cheque only). Register ahead of time. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Lunch provided.

266 Oliver St., Williams Lake (Community Futures office). (250) 392-3626 or flo@cfdccariboo.com.

November 21: Made in the Cariboo Fair. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Williams Lake Tourism Discovery Centre. Contact vistors@telus.net or (250) 392-5025 to register or for more information.

November 21: Social Planning Council of Williams Lake & Area AGM. Everyone welcome. Tradeshow event afterwards. In partnership with the City of Williams Lake.

Signal Point Conference Room. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Call (250) 243-2126 or email spc-coordinator@xplornet.com for more info.

November 21: Christmas Craft Fair & Tea. Help support the Salvation Army‘s Great Room and check out great crafts and other gift ideas. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Salvation Army (272 Borland St., Williams Lake). Email ngiesbrecht9@gmail.com or phone (250) 302-1052 for more info.

November 21 & 22: Medieval Market. A curated vendor market bringing the finest local artisan products. Live music and delicious food. Nov. 21 10 a.m. to Nov. 22 4 p.m. Lake City Secondary School. Email kimberly.nowotny@sd27.bc.ca for more info.

November 24: Baha‘i Unity Feast. Attendees invited to bring a reading or something special from their own tradition on the theme of unity (not mandatory). 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Immigrant & Multicultural Services Society of Prince George (118C First Ave. N., Williams Lake). Call Margaret Anne Enders (250) 305-4426 for more info.

November 27: Hobbit House Open House.

Tax- free Christmas shopping. 9 a.m to 7 p.m. (71 1 Ave S, Williams Lake). Phone (250) 392-7599 for more info.

November 27 & 28: Fifth Annual Earth Friendly Holiday Event. Natural craft creations and caroling. Free, all ages. Nov. 27, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Nov. 28, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Cariboo Arts & Culture Centre (90 Fourth Ave. N., Williams Lake). Phone (250) 398-7929, (250) 398-8532 or email wa s te wis e@c cco ns er v.o r g o r vis it www.ccconserv.org for more information.

November 29: Sunday Sharing the Dharma

Day at Gendun Drubpa Buddhist Centre, Williams Lake. 10 - 11:30 a.m. Afterwards attend a farewell tea for Tenzin at 11:30 a.m.

212 Third Avenue South Williams Lake.

Phone (778) 412-7780 for more info or visit www.gendundrubpa.org.

January 11, 18, 25: Monday evening Meditations at Gendun Drubpa Buddhist Centre, Williams Lake. 7 to 8 p.m. 212 Third Avenue South Williams Lake. Phone (778) 4127 7 8 0 fo r mo r e in fo o r v is it www.gendundrubpa.org

December 1: Women‘s Spirituality Circle Visioning Gathering. Input needed for the third annual gathering. Light supper provided. 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Central Cariboo Arts Centre. Call Margaret Anne Enders at (250) 305-4426 for more information.

January 10, 17, 24, 31: Sunday Book Study: The Book of Forgiving by Desmond and Mpho Tutu. The quality of life on the planet is nothing more than the sum total of our daily interactions with one another. Forgiveness is the way we mend tears in the social fabric. We invite you to walk with us on the path of forgiveness. 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Gendun Drubpa Buddhist Centre, Williams Lake. 7 to 8 p.m. 212 Third Avenue South Williams Lake. Phone (778) 412-7780 for more info or visit www.gendundrubpa.org

December 1-31: Station House Gallery Christmas Market with Local Artisans. Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Station House Gallery, Williams Lake. See facebook page for details or phone (250) 392-6113.

December 3: Your Health is Sexy…Get tested! Free, confidential HIV testing and information in support of World AIDS Day. Free food, prizes. Sponsored by the Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake. Ages 1530 welcome. Thompson Rivers University, Williams Lake. 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Call Jordan (250) 392-5730, ext. 207 or email prevention@bgcwilliamslake.com for more info.

December 8: Banff Mountain Film Festival.

Ignite your passion for adventure, action, and travel with big-screen adventure. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Gibraltar Room, Williams Lake.

December 12-14: Barkerville‘s Old Fashioned Victoria Christmas. Enjoy delicious home baking in the Wendle House, carol singing at St. Saviour‘s Church, and stay overnight in a bed and breakfast. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Barkerville. Phone 1-888-994-3332 for more info.

December 19: Electric Soulstice. Serpentine Productions presents an evening of musical performance. Dance to Latin dub, future bass, glitch hop, world bass, deep house, and mo re. Tic ke ts o nline a t http :// serpentineproductions.yapsody.com/event/ index/19777/electric-soulstice. Tickets not available at the door. 19-plus event. 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 351 Hodgson Rd, Williams Lake.

January 1: Scout Island Polar Bear Swim.

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Scout Island Rd., Williams Lake.

January 25: Social Planning Council of Williams Lake & Area lunch and monthly meeting. 11: 30 a.m. Location and guest speaker/presentation posted in advance at http://socialplanningcouncil.blogspot.ca/ or email spc-coordinator@xplornet.com or call (250) 243-2126 for more info.

January 30-31: Family Winter Carnival.

Igloo building, sledding, snowball throw contests, cross-country skiing, face painting, sleigh rides, and snowshoeing. Local First Nations traditional events. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Vis it http ://wlwintercar niva l.wix.co m/ williams- lake for more information.

January 31: Family Fest. Supporting lifelong literacy and learning. Fun and free.

Puppet shows, music, crafts, storytelling, face painting, door prizes, and more. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gibraltar Room, Williams Lake.

Email literacyoutreachworker@gmail.com

Williams Lake Wanderers Schedule We plan to be hiking/walking each day until we have enough snow to extend the activities to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing as well.

We will leave the Sam Ketcham Complex at 10:00 am (note the time change), so come around 9:45 to get organized. We begin our outings from there on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, so you can fill out a membership form and pay your $10 annual fee if you wish to become a member. Once you're a member, you will receive emails with schedule information. Schedules and updates are also on Facebook.

November Schedule Tuesday, November 10 – Gun-a-noot/Cabin Loop Trail - Wendy (Dog Creek Road) Wednesday, November 11 – at 12:30 pm (meet at 12:15) UBC Forestry walk - Kris (Hwy. 97S ) Thursday, November 12 – Pablo Creek to Fraser - Allison (Hwy. 20) Tuesday, November 17 – Bull Mountain Forestry Trail (Hwy. 97N) Wednesday, November 18 – Cell Tower hike (Hodgson Rd.) Thursday, November 19 – Kitchen Sink Trail - Jean Tuesday, November 24 – Fox Mtn./Signal Point (Fox Mtn. Rd) Wednesday, November 25 – Pulver Meadow hike (Fox Mtn.) Thursday, November 26 – Scout Island walk All of these activities are subject to change according to weather conditions, so keep an eye on your email/Facebook daily.

Members' Monthly Coffee Social For November we're holding a no host lunch at Allez Kats after the walk to Scout Island on November 26. All members are welcome.

It is our second anniversary, so we'll reflect/ reminisce and talk about our future. Also, can re-register for the coming year.

Your Green Shopping Directory

Distribution Details

Green Locations TheGreenGazette can be found in print at the fine locations below, as well as online at www.thegreengazette.ca or by subscription .

“ Alternative Kids Clothing, 250 392-4445 65 1st Ave. South, Williams Lake Recycled (―pre-loved‖), up-cycled, locally made, fairly traded, and organic cotton products. Clothing for 0-17 yrs., soaps, and accessories for all ages. Small maternity section. See Facebook: Alternative Kids Clothing and Accessories for hrs.

Bean Counter Bistro & Coffee Bar, 250 305-2326 180B 3rd Ave. North, Williams Lake Organic Coffee, Fair Trade, Local Foods Big Bear Ranch, 250 620-3353 Steffi, Florian, and Rainer Krumsiek Grass finished beef and lamb, pasture raised pork, and turkey. Certified organic since 2004.

www.bigbearranch.com Canadian Tire, 250 392-3303 1050 South Lakeside Dr., Williams Lake Recycling Initiatives, Renewable Energy Solutions, Organic Cleaning Products: Blue Planet, Green Works, Method, Nature Clean, Seventh Generation

.”

Halls Organics, 250 398-2899 107 Falcon Rd. (North Lakeside), Williams Lake Indoor and Outdoor Organic Gardening Products, Alternative Traditional Products, Teas anHerbs, Hemp Body Products The Hobbit House, 250 392-7599 71 First Ave. South, Williams Lake Juice Bar, Natural Products, Essential Oils, Teas, Crystals, Gemstones, and more.

Potato House Sustainable Community Society 250 855-8443 or spuds@potatohouseproject.com In an age of apathy and a sense that change is all talk and no action, The Potato House Project is a friendly bastion of doing, sharing, learning and playing. Call us with your ideas and to find out ways to get involved.

San Jose Cattle Company, 250 296-4592 Clint and Karen Thompson Sustainable Agriculture, Raised Naturally/Local Beef, No antibiotics, hormones, chemical fertilizers or herbicides.

Cleanway Supply, 1-800-663-5181 275 South MacKenzie Ave., Williams Lake Organic Cleaning Products

Scout Island Nature Centre & Williams Lake Field Naturalists, 250 398-8532 www.scoutislandnaturecentre.ca www.williamslakefieldnaturalists.ca 1305A Borland Rd, Williams Lake Nature on the city’s doorstep. Bird sanctuary, arboretum, trails, Nature House, natural history programs for children and adults.

Dandelion Living, 778-412-9100 271 Oliver St., Williams Lake Local & Original, Reclaimed & Repurposed, Natural & Organic Products

Smashin‟ Smoothies, 778-412-2112 102-41, 7th Ave North, Williams Lake Juice, Smoothies & Expresso Bar Fresh, Organic, Whole Food.

Day Spa Champagne, 250 305-1249 124A North Second Ave., Williams Lake Quiet, relaxing, personalized atmosphere. A Zen experience. Four Types Massage, Reflexology, Manicures/Pedicures & More.

Sta-Well Health Foods, 250 392-7022 79D 3rd Ave. North, Williams Lake Organic Foods, Water Distillers, Natural Medicines, Emergency Freeze Dried Foods.

Debbie Irvine B.Sc. (Agr.) RHN Registered Holistic Nutritionist 250-392-9418 or dirvine@thelakebc.ca SPRINGHOUSE GARDENS - Organically grown market garden veggies; Grass fed/finished beef - no hormones, no GMOs. Enquiries welcome.

Williams Lake Food Policy Council, 250-302-5010 GROWING THE SEEDS OF CHANGE! www.facebook.com/WLFPC foodpolicycouncil@hotmail.com. Building a strong local food economy and promoting a healthy and sustainable community

earthRight Solar, 1 877 925-2929 3rd & Borland, Williams Lake Renewable Energy Solutions, Eco-Friendly Products, Composting Toilets

Williams Lake Water Factory, 250 398-5201 Pure Bottled Water. Home & Office Delivery.

955 S. Mackenzie Ave, Williams Lake, BC. Come see us on Toonie Tuesday!

Flying Coyote Ranch, 250 296-4755 Ingrid Kallman and Troy Forcier Grass-fed Angus beef No shots, no hormones, organic fertilizer By the quarter or side, hamburger .

Zed-Tech Electric, 250-267-4868 For all your residential and commercial needs.

Joe Zombori zedtechelectric26@gmail.com

Cariboo Growers Coop, 778 412-2667 3rd & Oliver St., Williams Lake. 100% Natural & Organic Foods, Non-Profit Farmer’s Coop

The Gecko Tree, 250 398-8983 54 N. MacKenzie Ave. Williams Lake Serving healthy, local foods

Zirnhelt Ranch, 250 243-2243 www.zirnheltranch.ca or susanzirnhelt@yahoo.com Producers of Grassfed/Finished Beef. Pasture Raised Pork.

Contact us today to list your Green Business - info@thegreengazette.ca or lisa@thegreengazette.ca

100 Mile House Donex Canadian 2 for 1 Pizza Chartreuse Moose Higher Ground Nat. Foods KFC Nuthatch Books One Another Coffee House Safeway Save-On-Foods A&W 108 Mile House 108 Mile Mall 108 Mile Supermarket 150 Mile House 150 Mile Mall Husky Station Marshall‘s 150 Mile Store Alexis Creek Alexis Creek General Store Anahim Lake Anahim Lake Trading Mclean Trading Bella Coola Coast Mountain Lodge Kopas Store Moore‘s Organic Market Valley Inn & Restaurant Big Lake Big Lake General Store

Williams Lake Adorn Naturally A& W All-ways Travel Amanda Enterprises Barking Spider Mtn. Bikes Bean Counter Bistro Beaver Valley Feeds Body Connection by Joe CanWest Propane Cariboo Growers Coop Cariboo Ski Community Futures Concrete Fitness Conservation Society CJ‘s Restaurant CRD Library Creative Scissor Dairy Queen Dandelion Living Day Spa Champagne earthRight Elaine‘s Natural Foods 4 Sure Bistro Factory Direct Furniture Greyhound Bus Stop Haines Office World Handi-Mart Joey‘s Grill KFC Halls Organics Integrated Elements Wellness Clinic The Hobbit House Husky Restaurant Karamia‘s Donairs Kornak & Hamm Pharmacy

Clinton Clinton Coffee House Dog Creek Mount View Handy Mart Red Dog Pub/Liquor Store Hanceville Lee‘s Corner Store Horsefly Clarke‘s General Store Post Office Horsefly Hardware Horsefly Service Station LacLaHache Race Trac Gas Lac La Hache Bakery Red Crow Cafe McLeese Lake Deep Creek Service Station The Oasis Motel Cafe Nimpo Lake Nimpo Lake General Store Prince George Ava Maria Gifts and Health Foods Books and Co. University of Northern BC College of New Caledonia Quesnel The Green Tree Barkerville Brewing Bliss Cafe Booster Juice Carryall Books Holistic Health Care Clinic Karin‘s European Deli Granville‘s Coffee Shop Quesnel Bakery Quiznos Safeway Save On Foods Tourism Info Center Redstone Kinikinik

The Laughing Loon The Legion Manna Cafe Margetts Meats McDonalds New World Coffee Oliver‘s Bar & Grill Porky‘s Deli Quality Tax Solutions Red Shred‘s Bike & Board Shed Rona Home Centre Safeway Save-on-Foods SBL Liquor Store Scout Island Nature Center Senior Citizens ActivityCenter

Shopper‘s Drug Mart Spa Bella Station House Gallery Sta-Well Health Foods Subway Taylor Made Cakes The Gecko Tree The Open Book Tim Hortons Tourism Info Center Trattoria Pasta Shoppe Thompson Rivers Univ.

Tsilhqot'in National Gov`t Walmart Williams Lake Physio WL Veterinary Hospital Williams Lake Water Factory *please note that we are in the process of revamping our distribution process to better serve our clients. If TheGreenGazette is not being displayed at any of the above locations please contact us so that we may rectify the situation.

By Jasmin Schellenberg HEALTHY SNACKS AND WHY High Protein Energy Snacks (makes 30) Ingredients ½ cup almonds 1 can chickpeas, rinsed & drained ¾ cup natural peanut butter ¼ cup honey ½ tsp vanilla ¼ cup chocolate chips (optional) Method Line a tray with parchment paper. In a food processor, mix almonds until they are a fine crumb.Then add the chick peas and mix until fine. Add the rest of ingredients, mix until smooth, and roll in the chocolate chips, making about 30 balls. Each ball will have about 3 gr of protein, 2 gr fiber, and 92 calories NUTRIENT DENSE MEAL Butternut Squash and Kale Lasagna (serves 12) Ingredients 1 large butternut squash, cut in half lengthwise and seeds removed 5 Tbsp butter, divided 1 small onion, finely chopped 3-4 large kale leaves, stems removed and finely chopped 1 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic 1/4 cup flour (whole wheat or all- purpose) 4 cups milk (whole milk or reduced fat) salt and pepper, to taste 11 no-boil whole wheat lasagna noodles 3 Tbsp grated parmesan Method Preheat oven to 195 degrees C (375 degrees F). Cook halved squash in a baking dish flesh side down for 40 minutes. Allow to cool and scoop flesh into a bowl. Reduce heat to 175 degrees C (350 degrees F).

Heat one tablespoon of butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

Add the kale leaves and cook until they are bright green and tender, about 2-3 minutes.

Stir in mashed up butternut squash .

In a medium sauce pan, heat the remaining 4 tablespoons butter with the garlic over medium low heat until the garlic is soft, about 2 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 3 minutes. Whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, and cook until it thickens, about 10 minutes, whisking frequently. Stir in the butternut squash and kale mixture. Taste and season with salt and pepper.

Pour 1 cup of the sauce into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with 3 noodles and then break a noodle into pieces and use 1/2 to 1/3 of it to cover the remaining space (2 of the 9 noodles will be broken to cover the small end space in each layer). Top the noodles with 1/3 of the remaining sauce and sprinkle with 1/4 cup parmesan cheese. Add another layer of noodles. Add 1/3 of the sauce and top with 1/4 cup parmesan cheese. Add a last layer of noodles. Top with the remaining sauce and 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese.

Cover and bake in the 175 degrees C (350 degrees F) oven for 30 minute s.

Remove cover

and bake an additional 10 minutes. Allow to rest 5-10 minutes before serving.

Add a sausage or a piece of steak for the carnivore at your table. Also goes well with a green salad. Enjoy!

MYTHS UNVEILED Why Salt is Essential to Health and Happiness.

Good sea salt could prevent tens of thousands of heart attacks, strokes, and deaths and trim billions from the health care tab, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. According to Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, lead author of the study, 30 per cent of salt intake lowered 25 per cent of cardiovascular diseases. The body needs salt and there is no substitute for it. Salt is vital to health.

Twenty-seven per cent of our bones is salt, and without salt a myriad chemical reactions that support enzyme function, energy production, hormone production, protein transport, and many other biochemical processes simply can‘t work. The chemical requirements of the human body demand that the salt concentration in the blood be kept constant. If the body does not get enough salt, a hormonal mechanism compensates by reducing the excretion of salt in the urine and sweat. But it cannot reduce this output to zero. On a completely saltless diet, the body steadily loses small amounts of salt via the kidneys and sweat glands— more if the body is engaging in vigorous physical activity. It then attempts to adjust to this loss by accelerating its secretion of water, so that the blood‘s salt concentration can be maintained at the vital level. The result is a gradual desiccation of the body and finally death. The organism literally dies of thirst.

One of salt‘s major functions is to regulate blood volume and pressure, including the flexibility of the blood vessels. Blood pressure can be affected by stress, age, exercise, and diet. Salt plays a key role in digestion. We need salt for digesting carbohydrates and proteins; we also need salt for digesting fats as sodium is involved in the manufacture of bile, which emulsifies fats so that they can be absorbed. Dr. Enig testified that chloride was essential for the growth of the brain and development of neurological function, and that sodium activated an enzyme needed for the formation of glial cells.

Salt is a natural mood booster. Watch Kirsten and Dr. Batmanghelidj on YouTube.

A WALK THROUGH YOUR PANTRY GET RID OF: White table salt; all minerals have been stripped from it.

REPLACE WITH: Good quality sea salt like Redmond or Himalayan sea salt; both are very high in minerals.

Brought to you by Jasmin Schellenberg. Inspired by and resourced from ―Nourishing Traditions‖ by S a l l y F a l l o n , www.westonaprice.org and Dr Kirsten BibbinsDomingo.

For Nourishing our Children newsletters of the past visit www.thegreengazette.ca.