December 2010 Kamloops Edition - North of 50

North of 50

LOCAL LATITUDE, GLOBAL ATTITUDE

HAPPY HOLIAYS ®

December 2010 Vol. 3, Issue 12, Publications Mail Agreement 41188516, ISSN # 1710-4750

from

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Thompson / Nicola / South Cariboo

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NORTH of 50 December 2010

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THE 100 MILE WINE LIST Story & photos by Desiray Fenrick

The sun soaked summer days are far behind us, and grapes across BC have all been harvested and bottled. Wine savvy consumers are no longer content to simply order a BC wine; now they are looking even closer to home. Wineries in the Shuswap and areas north of the Okanagan have been producing award winning wines for years and have set themselves apart from other regions of the province. Because of the colder climates, wineries that sit north of 50 ° focus on Germanic style grapes that mature early to mid-season. Some say, these grapes tend to produce a crisper, cleaner, more flavourful wine than those generally seen in the Okanagan.

Larch Hills Winery in Salmon Arm is considered a pioneer for growing European varietal grapes so far north. At 2300 feet, it owns the distinction of being the highest winery in North America. Here, there is no need to irrigate. Owners Jack and Hazel Manser say “The less water in the grape, the higher the sugar content and the more flavour.” In October grapes are hand picked for making Larch Hills’ enticing dessert wines, which contain half the sweetness of a traditional ice wine.

In May 2010 at the Northwest Wine Summit, an annual competition held in Oregon which is open to wineries in Oregon, Washington, Idaho and BC. Larch Hills added to their numerous accolades by taking home seven medals, including gold for their 2008 Siegerrebe.

northern winery welcomed its first visitors in June. Celista Estate Winery owners Margaret Baile-Ootes and Jake Ootes initially bought the sprawling 160 acre property overlooking Shuswap Lake in 1995. The two were still residing in the Northwest Territories, so it wasn’t until 2002 that they planted one acre and 1,000 vines of Marechal Foch to start the vineyard. The next three years saw them expand to 4,000 vines and four acres. Until they made the decision to start producing their own wine last fall, the grapes were being sold to Larch Hills and Granite Creek. “It is an ideal spot to grow the cold climate grapes because the slope of the land and close proximity to the lake helps regulate the summer temperatures,” says Jake. Heavy amounts of snowfall ensure the roots will remain covered and protected making the vines hardy to -27o for a short period of time.

Margaret has combined her long-time passion for art with their new venture.

She successfully founded and owned Arctic Art Gallery, the largest art gallery in the Northwest Territories. Margaret has hung some of her favourite Arctic and Shuswap paintings along the tasting room walls for patrons to enjoy and purchase. When not talking art or wine, Margaret can be found outside tending to her second love, her Icelandic horses. Celista Estate is already an award winning winery, earning two bronze medals for their 2009 Celista Cuvee and 2009 Ortega at this years’ Northwest Wine Summit.

Located at Silver Creek just outside Salmon Arm is Ovino Winery, which had been operating as a dairy farm until 2007. John and Katherine Koopmans, with the help of Larch Hills founder Hans Nevrkla grow Pinot Gris, Pinot Meunier, Gewurztraminer, Marechal Foch and two red wine varietals, Cabernet Libre and Regent.

Also very new to the winery community is Fort Berens, the first vineyard and winery in Lillooet. Owners Rolf de Bruin and Heleen Pannekoek from the Netherlands are currently using contracted grapes from other vineyards. They wait with anticipation to harvest from their own 20 acres and six varietals which were planted in 2009.

Tappen is home to family owned and operated Granite Creek Estate Wines, which officially opened in October of 2004. Heather and Gary Kennedy and Mayka and Doug Kennedy, whose family has farmed the property since 1959, bottle, “Exquisite award winning handcrafted wines.”

Other wineries close to home include one of BC’s smallest family-owned wineries, Edge of the Earth Vineyards in Armstrong. Their vegan wine is made without treatment or addition of commonly used animal-based wine-making products.

They use sustainable farming practices with minimal mechanization and without harsh chemical sprays. Also, just north of Armstrong in a creek side setting is Hunting Hawk Winery, which produces a wide-array of reds, whites, blushes and dessert wines.

Just down the road from Granite Creek is Recline Ridge Winery and new owners Graydon and Maureen Ratzlaff. Under towering Tappen Mountain, 7 and 1/2 acres of their 10 acre property is vines. Under the guidance of former owner Mike Smith, this fall saw the harvest of a brand new section of grapes. It takes up to five years for a vine to turn out production quality grapes, says Maureen.

Recline Ridge is known for their superb Port which is a fortified French oak aged Marechal Foch. At the 2008 All Canadian Wine Championships, the 2006 Ridgeport won an impressive double gold. An enthusiastic Graydon, who hopes to be running at full capacity in the next few years, says their main focus now is to grow the business. Both Recline Ridge and Granite Creek were featured in November at the third annual Kamloops’ Chefs in the City event.

It was an exciting summer on the north side of Shuswap Lake as BC’s most

When looking for a quality wine made from 100% BC fruit head to Cache Creek and the Bonaparte Bend Winery, one of the worlds leading fruit wine producers.

Overlooking the Bonaparte River, 85% of the fruit used is grown right at the Bonaparte Ranch. Some of the flavours available include apricot, apple, blueberry, blackberry, raspberry, rhubarb, honey and blueberry black currant.

So while the vines slumber under a thick blanket of snow waiting in anticipation for their first glimpse of spring and the new bottles make their way to the shelves, start looking for a label that was made right here in our own backyard.

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North of 50

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Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo

EDITORS NOTES We love receiving your letters and emails to the editor.

Publisher Dean Wallis dean@northof50.com

That feedback gives us an idea of how we’re doing, how readers are reacting to our articles and if we are delivering the stories readers want.

Managing Editor TJ Wallis editor@northof50.com

The November issue of North of 50° inspired an unusually high number of phonecalls and letters.

Several readers noticed we had used an image of a holly leaf to portray mistletoe in a story about the traditions of the holiday greenery. Oops. That explains why this editor has not had a holiday kiss in a very long time; I’ve been standing under the wrong plant.

Advertising Sales Dean Wallis dean@northof50.com Ad Design & Layout Kristi Carter krist@northof50.com Administrative Assistant Caralyn Doyle caralyn@northof50.com Deadline for Ads to be submitted is the 22nd of the month for publication on or about the 1st of the month Office Location: Suite 102 Armstrong Business Centre 2516 Patterson Avenue Armstrong, BC Mailing Address: Box 100 Armstrong, BC V0E 1B0

ADS & SUBMISSIONS Phone: (250) 546-6064 Fax: (250) 546-8914 Toll Free: 1-877-667-8450 (877)NORTH50 Website: www.northof50.com North of 50 i s a n i n d e p e n d e n t , f r e e m o n t h l y publication, locally owned, produced and distributed throughout the Thompson /Nicola/ South Cariboo/ Okanagan and Shuswap areas by 0727724 BC Ltd. Disclaimer: The publisher will not be responsible for errors or omissions. In the e v e n t o f a typographical error, the portion of the advertisement that is incorrect w i l l not be charged for, but the balance of the advertisement will be paid at the applicable r a t e .

The opin i o n s a n d v i e w s contained in submitted articles to North Of 50 newsmagazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

The publisher retains the right t o e d i t a l l submissions, including articles and letters to the editor, for brevity and clarity. Copyright is retained on a l l m a t e r i a l , t e x t a n d g r a p h i c s in this publication.

No reproduction is allowed of any material in any form, print or electronic, for any purpose, except with the expressed permission of North of 50 P u b l i c a t i o n s (unless for private reference only).

Publications Mail Agreement No. 41188516 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses To North Of 50 Box 100 Armstrong, BC • V0E 1B0

Other readers pointed out grammatical errors in that same story. Now you know why I am the editor of a small, independent, regional magazine and not the editor of the Globe and Mail.

John McCrae’s poem In Flanders Fields received some attention, too. We printed the first line: “In Flanders Fields the poppies blow” but some readers objected, stating the line should read “In Flanders Fields the poppies grow.” We learned from another reader that many people believe the poem is printed incorrectly on the Canadian 10 dollar bill and there have been rumours that the bill had been recalled because the poem is incorrect. Not so.

Turns out that recall story is actually a myth. John McCrae wrote two versions of the poem. Both were published, but his original manuscript, the one used by the Canadian government on the $10 bill, and widely used for Remembrance Day ceremonies, reads “blow”.

There are some big changes coming down the pike, too, as we continue to grow (not blow). In February 2011, North of 50 will be taking on a completely new format. We are converting to a full colour eco friendly magazine.

We will continue to bring you relevant, provocative stories on social issues that affect our communities, as well as fun pieces on quirky and inspiring folks, events and places.

We hope you will continue to keep us on our toes and voice your opinions on the articles we present - or any issues of concern. Space is limited and we have an editorial staff of one, so we ask that you limit your letters to the editor to 200 words.

If you are aware of a social issue that you believe merits discussion in the magazine, please email me, editor@northof50.com or give me a call at the office. We’re interested in interviewing community leaders for our Regional Attitude section, which is a Question and Answer format. Please let us know if there is someone you'd like to hear from.

We hope you enjoy this - the holiday edition - of North of 50°, and if you do -- or if you don’t - put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard and tell us what you are thinking.

NORTH of 50 December 2010

YOUR LETTERS Response to “Big Boxing In Salmon Arm”

Much information is provided by the writer of the above-subject article in the November 2010 edition of your publication. My concern is that if the writer does not know the correct spelling of “Neskonlith”, what other detail provided may not be accurate?

George Young, Tappen EDITOR’S NOTE: The author of the article, Don Sawyer, concedes that the official name of the band is Neskonlith, but as with all aboriginal names, this is a rather crude attempt to phonetically represent the actual Shuswap (more properly Secwepemc, which itself is an approximation of ʃəˈxwɛpəmx in the International Phonetic Alphabet or IPA) name of an early chief, Neskainlith, an alternate spelling still in use. To put the writer’s mind at ease about other information in the article, he may find it comforting to know that Mr. Sawyer has worked with the Secwepemc Cultural Education Society as a writer, taught adult ed on the Spallumcheen (Splats’in) First Nation and acted as SFU’s faculty associate in charge of the North Okanagan (nsəlxcin) Native Teacher Education Program.

NOVEMBER’S FAIR COMMENT RESoNATES WITH SENIOR Dear Don:

Tonight I read the October 2010 issue of North of 50. Your article on connecting dots is truly true. Much to my dismay. I am a senior approaching year 94. When I know millions of dollars are used by our political people on just their expense accounts, it makes me very upset.

There are wealthy seniors and some on the poverty level. I live on the poverty level. My needs as I age increase but senior allowance does not increase enough to cover – hearing aids at $4000 which are not helping – my dental expense – my prescriptions (not all are covered), my podiatrist, etc.

In my 94 years I have never been a financial burden to anyone – never been in debt or overdrawn.

Our prison people get paid and I’m sure their medical needs are met. Seems unfair.

I’m embarrassed to have to pay my dentist $25 or $5 a month, just what is left after my daily needs. I live in pain and care for myself and have ways of making a few dollars a month.

My body suffers but my mind is quite good – but my body prevents me from socializing and when you can’t hear, you can’t visit! When you can’t visit life is a drag! Very frustrating.

Do you know of any organization who could assist me with the large expense of hearing aids and dental? I would truly appreciate your help.

Name Withheld by Request Editor’s Note: Don Sawyer has contacted the offices of MP Colin Mayes and MLA Eric Foster on behalf of this senior.

Mr. Mayes’ office was able to provide the name and contact information of some local supports / resources and has stated it will follow up directly with this consituent. Mr. Foster’s office was willing to look into these issues with the senior if she contacted the MLA’s office directly, but said it was unable to respond to a third party request. Mr. Sawyer has given MLA Foster’s contact information to this senior. North of 50° will keep readers informed of what transpires. This senior supports herself on $1200 in monthly pension income. Housing expenses, even with a rent subsidy, run $600 monthly, leaving $600 for all other expenses. Recently, a tooth extraction cost her $125. (She cannot afford any dental insurance.) With another 20 percent of her discretionary income gone, it is not difficult to see how some seniors struggle financially. We will be following this case in North of 50° as many of our readers are themselves elders and may have similar concerns.

NORTH of 50 December 2010

Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo

MERRY CHRISTMAS

When Jamilya Goes Home

By Lise Simpson

On Saturday October 30th my husband went to Costco while I tackled the housework. Upon his return, he stood in the kitchen and yelped “do you know what is happening at Costco? It’s not even Halloween yet and they have all their Christmas stuff out! It’s still October for Pete’s sake!” I didn’t dare tell him it had probably been Christmassy in Costco for several weeks already.

On Monday November 1st, we went to Starbucks for, not surprisingly, coffee. The barista cheerfully offered my hubby a cup of freshly brewed Christmas blend, served in a red Christmas-themed cup. It was all I could do to restrain him from commencing with his “but it’s only November 1st” anti-Christmas rant.

By the second week of November, my fridge calendar was carefully recording Christmas parties for every weekend from the end of November through to New Year’s Eve. We had been asked to contribute to Santa’s Anonymous, Operation Christmas Child and the VJH Light-a-Bulb campaign (and after everything that hospital has done for my Dad, a donation was made, with pleasure).

At our respective places of work, emails from the Social Committees began hitting our in-boxes, reminding us to bring an unwrapped gift for the toy drive, and a Secret Santa gift with a retail value of under $25.00. Unbidden, I had received (and made a donation for) beautiful Christmas cards, created by amazing disabled artists. I had received (and made a donation for) lovely “to – from” Christmas stickers from Covenant House in Vancouver.

By the third week of November, Martha Stewart had insisted that I make Perfect Whipped Potatoes for my Christmas dinner, and Sarah Richardson wanted me to decorate my entire house with gold and silver wreaths which of course I had made myself. Estee Lauder phoned to enquire if I had purchased my Christmas Collection of sparkly makeup, and Holt Renfrew sent me an email wondering if I had coordinated my sparkly Christmas party outfit. By this time I should have ordered an organic turkey from a local farmer, and I should have been growing my own herbs to stuff it with. As there were only 34 shopping days left until Christmas (oh how I hate the countdown) I should have thoughtfully purchased all my amazing, appropriate gifts, and had wrapped them in either politically correct recycled paper, or hemp.

On November 23rd one of my co-workers told me, while dramatically passing her hand through her hair (which she had just highlighted, in time for the Christmas season) that she was exhausted from setting up and decorating the seven Christmas trees that she puts up in her house. It took every ounce of restraint that I possess to not smack her.

Do not misunderstand me – I love Christmas. I truly do. I love choosing a tree and decorating it with my husband and children. I dig getting together with all my favourite people in my world and giving them presents and seeing the delight on their faces. I dance while decorating my house listening to Christmas carols. I love going for a huge walk in the snow with my dog George and coming back to a crackling fire and Perry Como’s Christmas music on the stereo. I love watching The Grinch, and It’s a Wonderful Life, and A Charlie Brown Christmas.

I appreciate my own good fortune and the fact that I can give a bit to those in need. I love a simple strand of Christmas lights strung along a modest fence.

I’m a sucker for the sentiment. I just can’t stand the other stuff.

May you find a moment this holiday season when you connect with the true spirit of Christmas. It might happen in a church, or when you watch a child opening a present, or when you remember Christmases spent with loved ones who have left us. But may you have a moment when the sparkly distractions can be ignored, and you are able to feel what Christmas is all about – what this life is really all about. Love. Merry Christmas, everyone.

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December in the desert here on the other side of earth is blue sky beautiful but a bit cool. The desert shrubbery has lost every colour but bleakness. The sand still shimmers as breezes blow. And the silence is still silence. The desert is a land ocean. The same kind of antiquity, same sense of alone. This part of Uzbekistan is a semi-autonomous region called Karakalpakstan. The area is vast, a third the size of Italy but with a population of under 2 million.

Calvin White

The Amu Darya River cuts through the land toward the Aral Sea. It is truly a mother river. Because of its water, life flourishes here. Large canals and from them ever smaller ones crisscross and bisect the land. From these capillaries, water seeps into the salted earth and crops grow; corn, melons, grains, and even rice. And cotton. When Uzbekistan was a Soviet republic the Moscow government decided that the region was prime cotton country and the current government continued the obsession. The result was the draining of the Aral Sea, once the fourth largest body of inland water in the world, and an exposed sea bed with all its contaminants. This has led to a health catastrophe to the extent that 50% of all deaths here are from respiratory diseases.

Uzbekistan is considered a Muslim country. All Karakalpaks call themselves Muslim. Yet most have no knowledge of the religion other than the use of mullahs on special occasions. They usually drink vodka, eat pork, and seldom, if ever, venture into a mosque, the few that even exist.

But they know how to dance. Weddings and birthdays, circumcision commemorations, and holidays all bring families and neighbours together. Stereo systems are rented and the raucous, catchy tunes of the country entice all ages to the streets or floors. The hands, the postures, the eyes - flicker and glare, beckon and tease with sensual vitality. All ages know the pulse.

On the surface, depending upon their ages, Karakalpaks seem either totally modern or calmly assured in tradition. Beneath the surface of ubiquitous cell phones and satellite dishes, the firm grip of custom and habit persists. This is especially etched in the case of gender roles. Women are born to become child-bearing wives. They are expected to move into their husband’s parents’ home. Once there, they must serve the entire extended family who are dwelling in that collection of living spaces. From a western point of view becoming a wife equates to servitude. From a Karakalpak woman’s point of view, it is merely assuming one’s expected lot in life. Resignation is how every woman gets by.

Jamilya is different. She is 27 and has two young children. She also is now 7 months into treatment for MDRTB. A short woman with gold colored front teeth (a dental remedy for bad teeth common to both genders) and beautiful, striking eyes, Jamilya was in the hospital for 4 months until she stopped being infectious.

During those months she learned about herself in a way which might not have happened had she not gotten such a serious illness. But MDR-TB stops everyone, forces their lives to change and gives plenty of time for introspection.

Jamilya was in a support group session one day when she announced how hard her life had been as a wife for the previous 7 years. “I had to work all day long from the time I got up in the morning until I went to bed, washing everyone’s clothes, cooking, cleaning, serving, sewing, everything. Then when I had my children I had to look after them as well.” Then she declared something the others had never heard before. “It wasn’t until I came into the hospital that I appreciated myself. No one at home ever appreciated what I was doing all these years. Now I appreciate myself. And I’m really angry about it.”

Appreciation? Anger? From a Karakalpak woman? Odd how a life threatening disease can force contemplation, can bring about awareness and wisdom. Being in hospital for all those weeks had finally given Jamilya enough down time to think, to reflect. Given that time, she developed a fuller view of herself and of her culture. She became more of an individual with her own mind.

As the days passed and I knew she would soon be discharged, I asked her if she was nervous about going home. Every patient yearns to get back to their home and family, but so many of the women realize that they will never again have the same respite for themselves. Jamilya nodded her apprehensions, “I have been thinking about it, how I will cope now that I see myself better.”

In this area of sand, salt, corruption, and disease it’s easy to see all that’s wrong. That’s what makes it so important to pay attention to everything else.

Calvin White is a retired high school counsellor who lives in the North Okanagan. He has over 70 essays published in various Canadian daily newspapers, including the Globe and Mail, the Ottawa Citizen, Toronto Star, Vancouver Sun and Province. If you have any comments on this column, you can write to Calvin White at calvinwhite@northof50.com or to Calvin White c/o North of 50, Box 100, Armstrong, BC V0E 1B0 Calvin White is currently working with Doctors Without Borders in Uzbekistan, a landlocked former part of the Soviet Union.

He will be there for about a year, working with victims of drug resistant tuberculosis and training counsellors to do the same. He continues to submit his columns to North of 50 from there.

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Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo

Coming Events Now to December 24. It’s Christmas in the Gallery once again and the Store doubles in size to accommodate a wonderful array of products from across B.C. and Canada that are “handmade for the holidays.” A unique selection of jewellery, ceramics, glass, home decor, textiles from regional artists and designers. 250.377.2400 or kamloopsartgallery@kag. bc.ca.

Now to December 31. Jana Saski - Hapa Family at the Kamloops Art Gallery. Explores experiences and memories of ‘mixed’ cultural upbringing in Canada.

Reflects upon the experience of being half Japanese and investigates how people of mixed cultural heritage view themselves and are viewed by others, an experience relevant to more and more Canadians.

250.377.2400 or kamloopsartgallery@kag.bc.ca.

December 16 SAGA Jazz featuring Brian PrattJohnson and his band. 7pm to 9pm, admission by donation.

December 6 - SUN PEAKS TOONIE SKI & RIDE DAY. Residents of Kamloops and area can ski for only $2! All proceeds go to the Kamloops Food Bank and the Sun Peaks Health Association. In addition to the $2, if you are feeling generous Sun Peaks will be accepting food donations for the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army will distribute the food donations amongst those who are in need in the Barriere and Clearwater communities. Photo identification with proof of address is required. 250.578.5474.

December 6. Shrine Fantasy Show at the Kamloops Convention Centre. Show starts 7:00pm, Tickets: $15 or 4 for $45. Watch in amazement, with your family, as world-class illusionists dazzle you with their magic. Get swept away in the wave of laughs and music provided by professional performers and musicians. 1.800.268.7371.

December 8. Jazzy Nutracker at the Kamloops Convention Centre. The Toronto Chamber Jazz 7tet.

Every one of these 7 musicians is an international headliner in their own bands. To hear them together in this super-orchestra is an extraordinary opportunity. Tickets through Kamloops Live!

Box Office for $38 (adults) and $20 (youth).

250.374.5483.

December 9. A Choral Rhapsody Christmas at The Sagebrush Theatre.The choirs of Kamloops present a delight selection of Christmas carols with good old fashioned sing a longs between sets. Come celebrate this magical season. This is a free community concert.

250.828.3611.

December 11, 17th Annual Community Christmas Dinner at the 100 Mile Community Hall. Doors open 5:30 pm, dinner 6pm; sponsored by 100 Mile House Christian Community. More info, Leila or Jacquie 250.706.6808 or 250.395.1992.

December 11 & 12. Christmas with the KSO at The Sagebrush Theatre. A story from the time of Dickens, dances, musical humour, plenty of seasonal tunes and a new young Symphony award winner. Performances at 7:30pm. 250.372.5000.

NORTH of 50 December 2010

December 12. The Kamloops Convention Centre and ORA Restaurant Lounge present the 2nd annual Breakfast with Santa event. Tickets are $10.00 + HST and include breakfast, entertainment, swag bags, sing-a-longs, and a special visit from Santa! All proceeds go to the Royal Inland Hospital Foundation. General seating unless you purchase a table of 10. ORA 250.372.5312 or 250.372.5312.

December 18 & 19 - Third Annual Sun Peaks Christmas Market. A large variety of handmade gifts, house wares, organic meats, seafood, produce, and more by local artists. Festive hand-bell performance takes place at 3:00pm on Saturday, and Margit Bull performs live from 12:00pm to 2:00pm each day. 250.578.5542 or tspevents@sunpeaksresort. com.

December 14. SAGA Public Art Gallery and Shuswap Arts Council invite everyone to attend “Spirit: The Year in Review,” from 5pm to 8pm. An open house with live music, goodies and hot apple cider, see what activities and events the Arts Centre has housed this past year.

December 19.Free public skate with Santa at the South Cariboo Rec Centre, 100 Mile House. Info at 250.395.1353.

December 17. Comedian Hypnotist Rob Hadley at The Sagebrush Theatre, 7:30pm. $31 or $16 for students and children at Kamloops Live box office.

250.374.LIVE. December 18. Kamloops Symphony presents Sing Along Messiah at Calvary Community Church. Join the Kamloops Symphony Chorus and add your voice to the glory of this perennial Christmas favourite.

Performance at 7:30pm at the Calvary Community Church. 250.372.5000.

First Annual Muse A-Fair A unique show, sale and play event of arts, crafts, story, and community work St. Andrews on the Square, 159 Seymour St. Saturday, December 11, 10 am to 4 pm •A

collaborative effort of 18 people who have connected through creativity coursework (with Musings and Mud Coaching Studio), who will share and offer for sale the products and services that have evolved as a result of living our 'inspired' life.

•Intention is to inspire others through stories, art, and creative activities.

•Partial fundraiser for Megan Unruh on her healing journey from cancer.

•And really, we are all simply having affairs with our muse… and that is how the name of our event evolved.

•Well known author and storyteller, Honorary Muse Richard Wagamese will be selling his newly discovered visual art and poetry talents.

•Honorary Muse-who-needs-some-help, Megan Unruh, will be there with her amazing duct tape, doodle and paper mosaic creations. Fundraising for Megan's healing journey includes canvas painting for a tooney.

•A unique variety of arts and crafts, including glass, painting, clay, collage, photography, soap and published works will be for sale.

•Some muses will share their passions for community work including helping children to become writers, or connecting people with nature.

•Others will share interactive music and storytelling activities.

•Muses' backgrounds vary from having many years experience in their field and showing their works in Chicago, New York and Toronto galleries - to newly discovered and published in an international magazine - to creating businesses from their passion - to first time officially sharing their passions!

December 19 Monashee Mountain Arts Society presents “Raggedy Ann and Andy Come for Christmas,” a live theatre show and festive tea for the whole family. Tickets $15. Call Mike Gentles at 250 836 2763 for more details.

December 20. Sun Peaks Symphony of Snow Holiday Concert. Adults $20, Children & Teens $10.00. Doors open 6pm, Show Time 7pm.

250.578.5542 or activities@sunpeaksresort.com January 5. The Wizard of Oz at Interior Savings Place, 7:30 pm. Tickets $45, $55 or $65 plus charges via Ticketmaster or ISC Box Office. 250.374.9200.

Chase Legion Branch 107 Monthly Calendar December 2010

New Branch hours Mon: 6-10pm. Tues. 4-8pm.

Wednesday Closed except For the Wednesday of the General Meeting Thurs. 6-10pm Fri 2-8pm. Sat 1-8pm. Sun. 2-8pm.

Branch will be closed Christmas Day Weekly Schedule: Free Pool Every Day Monday: League Darts, Mixed Doubles.

7:30pm Tuesdays: Free Meat Draw, Pool, 4:30 & 7:00pm, Thursdays: League Darts, Mixed Doubles.

7:30pm, Crib, Lower Hall 7pm Fridays: TGIF Meals 6pm $6. For members $7 Saturdays: Meat Draw $1 a ticket and good for all draws 2pm, Fun Darts 2pm & Pool Tournament 6:30pm.

DECEMBER SPECIAL EVENTS: Sunday 5th: Giant Crib. 10:30am Wednesday 15th: General Meeting 7pm Saturday 18th: Karaoke 7pm Saturday 25th: Closed Sunday 26th: Boxing Day Bash with Cris Simmons Friday 31st: New Years Eve Dance with Mary Resik Come and join the legion new members always welcome. No Military background needed Call 250-679-3536 for Details

NORTH of 50 December 2010

Community Events 100 Mile House

100 Mile Legion AllVeterans get-togethers are held Saturdays at 2 p.m. at the legion. Meat draws at 3 p.m. For more information call 3952511.

Creekside Seniors Centre offers activities for seniors such as pool, darts, bridge, whist, cribbage and carpet bowling.

For more information call (250)395-3919.

108 Newcomers Group.

First and third Thursday of every month at 10:30 am in the Community Centre upstairs room.

Meet other newcomers over a cup of coffee in an informal setting. Dropin fee: $2. Caroline 7919250.

The Spinners and Weavers meet every first Friday at the Parkside Art Gallery, at 385 Dogwood Crescent from 10 am to 2pm interested people can contact our president Unni at: http:// www.trollheimenweaving.com/

Barriere

Barriere Survivors meet 2nd Monday of the Month 10:30 am to 12:30 @ Volunteer Centre. Anyone who has suffered a Brain Injury Ph. Kamloops Brain Injury Assoc (250) 3721799 ask for John Alzheimers/Dementia Support Group 1st Thursday of each month from 10:00a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Volunteer Centre on Barriere Town Rd. Phone 250-377-8200 or 1-800-886-6946.

Clearwater

The Wells Gray Country Seniors Society meet the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. at the Resource Centre; Third Sunday Seniors Social at 1p.m. in the Munroe Room at Wells Gray Inn; Seniors Book Club meet on the fourth Thursday of each month in the Clearwater library.

Contact Lois Geiger, lgeiger@mercuryspeed. com.

Kamloops

BIG Little Science Centre PUBLIC HOURS 2009 2010 Discover & Explore Fun Science. Enjoy TWO FULL Rooms with over 130 Hands-on Stations.

Thursdays and Fridays 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Saturdays 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. With a Special Activity or Show at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Closed Sundays and Holidays.

For more information contact: Gord Stewart at: 250-554-2572 or 250319-0689 E-mail: gord@ blscs.org Wonder Cafe Soup Kitchen at Mt. Paul United Church, 140 Laburnum Ave. (Kamloops North Shore), serves hot lunch every Thursday from 11a.m. to 1p.m.

Kamloops Ostomy Support Group meets at 7 pm on first Thursday of month at Medichair, boardroom.

210-450 Landsdowne Street, contact for info: Ken at 250-819-0315 or Evelyn at 250-828-6647.

Pottery classes for the Fab 55+.

Discover or rediscover the great feeling of creating in clay- Hand building, sculpture, coils or slabs.

Held every Tuesday from 1-3:30PM at Heritage House pottery studio in Riverside Park. $5 for non members $3 for members. Free clay is available for small projects and fee covers firing, glazing and use of tools. For more information contact Diane Britt at 573-2604 or 377-8793.

The local chapter of Green Drinks International (greendrinks.org) will meet on the first Monday of each month.

November 2nd, 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Green Drinks is a non-profit social group. Topics discussed in the past include gardening, green home building, air pollution, home canning, straw bale houses!Mary Ellen Grant megloops@gmail. com or 250.371.7172 Kamloops Garden Club Meets every 4th Wed. of the month in Heritage

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Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo

House at 7:00 pm.

Jeanette Moslin (250) 372-9669.

Dance to the music of the Kamloops Old Time Fiddlers with Special Guest Nila Hirsch on accordion. 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Nov. 20th at Heritage House, 100 Lorne Street. Members $ 6.00, non-members $ 7.00. FMI call 250-3762330. Everyone welcome Tuesday afternoon cribbage at the McArthur park lawn Bowling Clubhouse (beside NorBroc Stadium) at 1:30 p.m. Everyone welcome.

No partners needed.

Crib, coffee and good company. Call 250-5790028.

Bridge at Desert Gardens Community Centre, every Tuesday, at 12:30 p.m. 540 Seymour Street.

For info call (250) 3725110.

The Alzheimer Society of BC, Central Interior, 543 Battle St. Kamloops, offers programs and services for people whose lives are affected by Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.

Programs and services include education workshops and information and support groups for family caregivers and for people diagnosed with early dementia. Call 250-3778200 or 1-800-866-6946.

Interior Authors Group, a group that brings people together who are interested in the art of writing, meets the second Wednesday of the month at the Kamloops Art Gallery, 465 Victoria St., at 7p.m. Call Ted Joslin, 250-374-8910.

Join a fun men’s and women’s a cappella chorus, The Hub City Singers, in rehersals every Tuesday, 7 to 9p.m., at the Old Yacht Club, 1140 River St. Members don’t have to be able to read music. Call 250578-7503.

Seniors Dance with the Golden Serenadors every second Friday of the month at the North Shore Community Centre, 730 Cottonwood Ave. Admission $4 Call 250-376-4777

PATCHS, a grassroots community-based group working to achieve positive changes in the health care system, meets the first Monday of each month at Kamloops United Church, 421 St. Paul St., at 6:30p.m. Call Rick, 250-579-8541 or email riturner@shaw.ca.

Centre. aerobic style fitness class, Nov. 10-3, 9-10 am, $56 Phone (250) 256-7527

Kamloops Family History Society meets the 4th Thursday of each month at Heritage House, 100 Lorne St., Riverside Park, 7-9 pm (Sept to May). Guests and new members are welcome. For info call 250-579-2078.

Logan Lake Seniors holds Bingo Fridays 1-3, 80 - 150 Opal, Village Centre Mall. Call (250) 523-2759.

CNRailroaders Crib night is held on the First & Third Thursday's of each month at 7pm at the Parkview Activity Centre, 500 McDonald Avenue.

Admission one dollar, includes tea, coffee and goodies.

Everyone is welcome.

Wii CLASSES Tuesday afternoons from 1-3pm anyone can drop in and play Wii Bowling at the North Shore Community Centre (730 Cottonwood Ave), instructed by Sheena.

Drop-in cost is $1. Other games are available to be played, depending on the interest of the group.

Lac La Hache

OAPO #176 Pioneer Centre offer several activities, such as pool, bridge, Canasta, square dancing, contra, rounds, pilates, and general exercise. For more information call Ron 250.396.7298, Agnes 250.396.7231 or Hazel 250.396.7698

Lillooet Quilters Guild meet the last Wednesday of the month at 7pm at the Friendship Centre September thru June.

Logan Lake

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Join the Toastmasters to gain confidence! They meet every Tuesday at 5:00 pm at the Merritt Library.

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Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo

NORTH of 50 December 2010

This One's for Sam

for everyone, the generosity and kindness that lay in a rich vein just under the veneer of tough talk and a hard life extended to anyone in the class who needed it.

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North of 50

LOCAL LATITUDE, GLOBAL ATTITUDE

PO Box 100 Armstrong, BC V0E 1B0

This is not the column I’d intended to write this month. But sometimes our plans get derailed by life. In this case it was the death of an Don Sawyer extraordinary woman.

My wife is the one that reads obituaries, and it was she that pointed out the short notice of Sam’s death in the local paper. I was stunned. It wasn’t that we were that close, we weren’t, but there was something so unexpected about her death that I just stared at the notice for a few moments, hardly comprehending.

And at her service today, jammed with friends and family who knew her far better than I did, I found tears streaming down my cheeks and a lump in my throat so large I could scarcely express my sorrow to Sam’s mother.

The depth of my response surprised even me. It’s not that I haven’t lost others I cared about. Indeed, lately I’ve noticed more and more rents appearing in the fabric of my life, small, empty holes here and there that used to be filled with people who provided me with joy, wisdom, friendship and inspiration.

No, this was something else. A feeling of infuriating unfairness, of great sadness at seeing the courage and strength Sam used to overcome the many obstacles she faced in her life snuffed out way too soon.

Sam was a competitive barrel racer, a talented artist, a poet, a businesswoman. She was gifted with animals, who saw (perhaps more clearly than the people around her) beyond the flippant, toughas-nails persona to the kindness and gentleness underneath. Sam was also my student.

Sam and her mother enrolled in my English class many years ago when I taught Adult Basic Education at Okanagan College. Like most adult learners, they were marked with that peculiar combination of weariness, hope and courage that make working with adult learners perhaps the most rewarding and mutually transformative branch of education. But even for adult students, rich in experience, living complex lives, and bringing into the classroom the scars and trophies of lives well lived, Sam and her mother were unusual.

First of all they were a mother and daughter team.

Sam not only screwed up the courage to return to school herself, she persuaded her mother to join her.

In the classroom, they were like two incandescent bulbs, brightening each day with their smiles, jokes and caring, not just for each other but for everyone in the class. Sam was the brightest light, perhaps, easing my marking load with her brilliant writing in that small, neat hand of hers, often illuminated with drawings and designs. But Diane was the rock. Out of school for 40 years, she came back to the classroom ready to tackle whatever came her way with the same determination and resolve she had applied to all the other challenges she had faced, from childhood abuse to single motherhood to running a ranch and a business. And she was there

Sam and Diane, mother and daughter, graduated together in 1987, two of the first students in BC to receive Adult Dogwood Diplomas. This extraordinary event did not go unnoticed. On the morning of their graduation ceremony, CBC called to interview them. Always a team, Diane, who detested public speaking, was shy and hesitant, so Sam took over, praising not only her mother for her support and love, but thanking her fellow students for her achievements.

Through Sam’s remarkable writing, I came to know a person that rarely emerged in public, quite different from the wiry cowgirl who wise-cracked her way through life. Instead I found a woman of depth, and within whom sadness and goodness jostled for predominance. This was a woman of intelligence and sensitivity whose own abuse and struggles had left her scarred but unbroken. Like her mother, Sam was a fighter, and like her mother, there was resilience and determination where most people would have long since given up. While there was every reason for despair, in Sam there was hope. Where there could have been bitterness, there was laughter and kindness.

Some years later, deeply moved by their stories, I based a novel I wrote for other adult students on their lives. Thousands of adult learners have found courage and resolve through the story of these women. For theirs was not only an account of the sadistic cruelty in Diane’s childhood and the years she spent in detention or the abuse and depression Sam confronted. Their stories are about how love between a mother and daughter can heal. About how in the face of brutal adversity, a woman can take control of her life, even if it means driving semis and heavy equipment, as Diane did, or, like Sam, become a rodeo champion and help her mother manage a ranch.

So my tears had little to do with Sam’s dog sleeping in front of her casket at the service, or her saddle and boots sitting empty by the podium. I have been blessed with many bright lights in my life, but Sam was one of them. Now that flame has been put out.

And my world is just a little bit darker.

Don Sawyer is a writer, educator and former Director of Okanagan College’s International Development Centre. He lives with his wife in Salmon Arm. You can contact Don Sawyer by email at donsawyer@telus.net or by mail at Don Sawyer c/o North of 50, Box 100, Armstrong, BC V0E 1B0.

For more information on Don’s writing and development work, visit his web site at www.thenortherned.com.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM NORTH OF 50

NORTH of 50 December 2010

Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo

9

THE 100 MILE BOOK REVIEW a great read is closer than you think You don’t have to scour the New York Times bestseller list fo find a good book. Many published wordsmiths call the Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo and Okanagan/Shuswap home.

We are pleased to bring you a sampling of a few of the best titles from local authors, Ask your bookseller for these and others.

MOTHERSTONE: British Columbia’s Volcanic Plateau

By Chris Harris & Harold Rhenisch, 108 Mile Ranch

In the high country of British Columbia’s Central Plateau lies the Motherstone. It is a land that few people have walked over or seen before.

It includes a chain of shield volcanoes formed over a mantle hot spot rising from a depth of 2,900 kilometers, a sea of crystallized basalts stretching 300 kilometers from Anahim Peak to the Painted Chasm, a river of obsidian, underwater volcanoes sitting high up above the world’s only inland temperate rainforest, and a field of cinder cones still rising from among the trees they burned through when they were formed.

This book will undoubtedly become one of the most important natural history books published to date in British Columbia. It was researched and written by the award winning BC author Harold Rhenisch; verified by the scientific consultant, Dr. Mary Lou Bevier, of UBC; and photographed by the distinguished Canadian photographer and publisher, Chris Harris. This book is inspirational, highly informative, and stunningly beautiful. It provides us all with a deeper understanding of our Planet and the realization of how privileged we are to live in a province of such ecological richness.

Motherstone is the eleventh book independently published by Chris Harris, in his Discover British Columbia Books™ series. Visit Chris’s website (www.chrisharris.com) to see some of his outstanding photographs. Published by Country Light Publishing, 224 pages. Available in hardcover, ISBN 978-0-9865818-1-6 $69.95 or softcover, ISBN 978-0-9865818-0-9, $39.95

THE LUNCH BAG CHRONICLES

A DELIGHTFUL TALE OF FAMILY, FUN AND SCHOOL DAY LAUGHS

By Don Sawyer, Salmon Arm

It’s not hard to imagine that Don Sawyer - a regular monthly columnist and contributor to North of 50, who writes critically and intellectually about important social issues – is also a writer of fun, witty books for young people.

His latest, The Lunchbag Chronicles (his 7th book for kids) is part joke book, part journal and all good fun and will no doubt inspire parents and grandparents to find their own unique way to connect with the young people in their lives.

Every single day for six years, Don Sawyer scribbled stories, jotted jokes and pencilled pictures on his daughters’ lunchbags. The Lunchbag Chronicles is a heart-warming journey of a dad keeping in touch with his two little girls, even when they were thousands of miles apart.

Meet a cast of delightful characters including valiant vampires, silly snakes, dozy dragons and funny food. Reconnect with your own family through The Lunchbag Chronicles. The jokes will make you giggle and the stories will remind you that being connected with the people you love is the most important bond of all.

Don Sawyer is an author, educator and international development worker. He lives with his wife, Jan, and their dog Farley in Salmon Arm. The 147 page book retails for $19.95 and is available through the publisher, Playfort Publishing (playfortpublishing.ca), at local bookstores and through amazon.ca. ISBN: 978-0-9813164-0-6

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Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo

NORTH of 50 December 2010

bronc busters and hay sloops

RANCHING IN THE WEST IN THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY By Ken Mather, North Okanagan Bronc Busters and Hay Sloops tells the story of ranching in the West from the beginning of the Great War until 1960. Cowboy soldiers, bronc busters, First Nations, upper-crust Englishmen and the strong, capable women of ranching country . . . theirs are the stories told in this book. Some of these characters are larger than life, such as: lJoe Coutlee, cow boss of the Douglas Lake Ranch, whose booming voice gave him the nickname “Roaring Bill”; lGrover Hance, who roped one of his men and tied him to a tree until he sobered up; Florence “Bunch” Trudeau, whose pet moose got a little too big for comfort; lOllie Matheson, one of the only women to ride in the Williams Lake Stampede’s death-defying Mountain Race; lAnne Paxton, who tended cattle, guided big-game hunters, ran pack horses and a ranch; lBill Arnold, who could ride “anything that wore hide.”

Ken takes readers inside sprawling ranches, which were self-contained communities in themselves, and small family-run homesteads scratched out of the wilderness. Like his first book on ranching history, Buckaroos and Mudpups, this is an engaging look at fascinating times and the people who made them so. Published by Heritage House. ISBN: 9781894974929, 224 pages, retails for $19.95. Available at local bookstores and amazon.com

The Soul Solution: The Need for a Theology of the Earth

Authors: Bob and Linda Harrington, Galena Bay Published by: Hancock House. ISBN: 978-088839-648-8, 249 pages, $20.

“By living thoughtfully, lightly and with respect, the Harringtons show us the richness of lives lived with love and spirit. This is their critique of our dilemma …an uplifting vision of what can be.” Dr. David Suzuki. Walking a spiritual path with practical feet this is an intensely personal and intimate view of ourselves, our world, our spirituality – a philosophy of being. The Soul Solution is perhaps the sole solution for today. Autographed and gift wrapped. Christmas Gift Special - 4 for $70. Phone 1 250 369 2281

Skin Like Mine

Author: Garry Gottfriedson, Paul Lake Published by: Ronsdale Press ISBN: 978-1-55380-101-6, 122 pages, $15.95 Available at: Bookstores, Amazon, ronsdalepress.com A suite of poems that peels away the skin of contemporary first nations people to reveal an inside view of their experience.

He pulls no punches as he explores their challenges, saying today’s native youth “afraid to live / afraid to die / afraid of ourselves.” He draws attention to the rape of the natural environment, and tackles the political dysfunction within band management. As the collection continues, Gottfriedson’s love for his land emerges, for the age-old rituals involving the land provide comfort and assurance that some things will never change.

Cultivating the Wild: Gardening with Native Plants of British Columbia’s Southern Interior and Eastern Washington

Author: Eva Durance, Penticton Published by: Nature Guides BC 104 pages, $22.95 Available direct from author at edurance@vip.net OR in plant nurseries, independent bookstores, and nature stores.

Cultivating the Wild focuses on how to garden successfully with the magnificent native plants of the Southern Interior. The book is primarily devoted to introducing individual species via colour pictures, ecological, cultural, and design descriptions, and interesting facts. Basic xeriscape/waterwise gardening information is included along with garden designs incorporating native and non-native plants. “This book is a significant addition to the native plant and xeriscaping canon.” (Don Gayton, grassland ecologist and author)

Wake Up Call: Tales From a Frontier Doctor

Author: Sterling Haynes, West Kelowna Published by: Caitlin Press of BC and distributed by Harbour Publishing beginning April, 2010 160 pages , $19.95 Sterling Haynes’ second book is a collection of 35 humorous short stories with a medical theme. The stories are mostly set in Central BC, some are rural and some urban. A few are set in Alabama. There are hockey and football stories, tragic stories and cowboy stories: a Kamloops inmate in jail swallowed a spoon to avoid solitary confinement, a drunken man shoots off his toe and begs the Doc to get him to Sunday Mass on time, a woman relates her near death experience forty years after the fact. Two of his stories “Doc, I got a Problem” and “Divinity” won literary awards, one in BC and one in Bierut and Paris. Available at: Mosaic Books in Kelowna and at most Chapters stores in Western Canada. Online via Amazon.ca, harbourpublishing.com, borders.com, barnesandnoble.com

A Family Of Six At Sea, Crossing The Atlantic On A Cement Boat

Author: Werner M. Gysi, Enderby Published by: Gooly Mooly Publishing ISBN: 978-1-8964240-1-9, 320 pages, $19.95 Available at: Chapters, any independent book store or from http://goolymooly.ca Sailing is a dream for many, but Werner made his dream come true. Already as a boy he had this idea to go across the Atlantic with a sailboat. The crew existed of Pascal(4), Carina (9), Anisha (12), Marcel (13) plus the parents, Brigitte and Werner. There are extraordinary contributions from the crews’ memoirs and journal entries. A true story that will inspire and feed your imagination. Werner’s other book is called Harmonic Farming: Homesteading, released last March.

NORTH of 50 December 2010

Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo

11

THE EVOLUTION OF A CLUB - We have a natural inclination to share good things and enjoyable activities with our friends but sometimes it can be difficult to find friends who are interested in the same things we are. In 1995 a group of unmarried Kamloopsians attacked that problem by banding together to form the “ SOCIAL SINGLES CLUB”. It was not intended to be a dating or match-making service but, over the years, some marriages between members did occur. The club was well known in town for the three dances they held each year – Valentines, Spring Fling, and Halloween. The group shared many other indoor and outdoor activities including golf tournaments, picnics, camping trips, scavenger hunts, bowling, potluck dinners and even a car rally.

In 2004 the group was reorganized and given a new name – “THOMPSON VALLEY ACTIVE SINGLES CLUB” (TVAS). One result of the new arrangement was the hosting of monthly dances which were open to anyone over the age of 19, regardless of marital status. The Ukrainian Hall on York Avenue was the venue for these well-attended monthly events which will resume in February 2011.

Members of the TVAS Club were required to be single and not living in a common law arrangement.

This resulted in an awkward situation when club members got married but wanted to continue enjoying the group's social activities. After much discussion it was decided that another restructuring was in order.

In the fall of 2010 the membership voted to change the group's name to “THOMPSON VALLEY ACTIVITY AND SOCIAL CLUB” (still TVAS) and opted to open membership to any individuals or couples who wish to apply. The group's many organized activities include golf, canoeing, biking, cross country and downhill skiing, fishing, attending theater events, card games, traveling and many others. If you would like to meet new friends and develop your interest in sports or social activities you are invited to attend one of the club's PHYSIQUE FITNESS STORE #1-1380 Summit Drive, Kamloops monthly meetings which are held on the first Wednesday of each month at the IOOF Hall, 423 Tranquille Rd. 250.374-0080 or 1.888.786.2211 or call 250-372-3782 for further information. Submission by Mike Lukow, Kamloops mllukow@shaw.ca www.physiquefitness.ca 250-372-7485

WISHING EVERYONE A MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!

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Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo

Floating on a Snow Sugar High

By Patti Shales-Lefkos

NORTH of 50 December 2010

Home The leap from the security of groomed runs to the challenge of backcountry powder can be daunting. Heli skiing seems terrifying and ski touring requires incredible endurance. So what are those of us slightly over 30 and still up for a new adventure to do? Paula and Kieran Gaul of Big Red Cats near Rossland, BC have just the ticket to ride.

I’m precariously perched on a slippery bench inside what seems to be an aluminum box. I jam my knees against the seat ahead to prevent sliding forward as we rattle along in the red Pisten Bully cat.

We jiggle gently over every rut of the snow-packed corduroy road. Hemlock branches brush the steamy windows.

There are 12 of us; most aged 25 to 35, and two couples in their 60’s and 70’s, from Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US. As usual, the majority are men.

“How many times did you fall yesterday?” I ask the 30-something guy sitting behind me. “At least ten,” he says with a laugh. “Most of us tasted snow.” I begin to feel more comfortable. A seasoned resort skier but backcountry neophyte, I am as nervous as I am excited about the day ahead. At 60, I’m afraid to be the only one who falls, worried about being the person who will hold up the hard core powder hounds and terrified of losing control and hitting a tree.

Travel easy – take a tour.

At the same time I don’t want my husband going off to have all the fun without me. Big Red Cats is the only operation I could find in BC that offers introductory, intermediate tours for those new to backcountry skiing and boarding, including easier terrain and helpful hints when requested. No need to leap directly into the steep and deep. Finally, a non-threatening way to get involved.

Sun sparkles on the snow when we step out of the cat, well above cloud level.

Nick Allan, one of the guides, tells us we will be skiing a band of gentle slopes at 1,800 to 2,000 metres. No avalanche terrain today. Still we dutifully strap on our avalanche beacons and are grateful for the earlier safety talk and practice drills.

Both guides carry packs with probes, shovels and emergency supplies. Clients take turns wearing the two guest packs. I wear my own for the experience of skiing with it.

Long Beach Storm Watching: Jan 30

$870

Washington Theatre Weekend: Feb 9

$495

Canadian Rockies Hot Springs: Feb 14 $595 Spain & Morocco: Mar 10

$7695

Billy Elliot in Seattle: Mar 26

$515

Music Cities: Mar 31

$4435

Jasper Park Lodge Spring Fling: Apr 4

$975

Panama Canal Cruise: Apr 19

$4030

China & Tibet: Apr 27

$5850

The moment of truth. First run of the day. Head guide, Lee Boland, a veteran Australian racing coach, who honed his skiing skills in Austria, leads the way.

“Ski with a buddy, keep calling out to each other and choose a line close to the one set by Lee,” says Nick. “And stop above where he does.” for more information on these or other Experiences www.wellsgraytours.com

Kamloops: 250-374-0831 800-667-9552

I make it through the first set of trees unscathed. We stop for a breather. The open slope ahead looks amazing. Legs like jelly, I listen for more words of advice from Lee about obstacles visible or just under the snow. Closer observation reveals several innocent looking bumps, actually stumps or logs, dotting the cutblock.

“It’s like driving,” he says. “Look at the dashboard, the bumper in front, and about ten cars ahead.” Off we go, hooting and hollering in the perfect conditions, ten centimeters of fresh, fluffy powder over hard pack. One effortless turn after

Cont'd on page 14

NORTH of 50 December 2010

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and Away Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo

THE DEAD SEA The Lowest Point on Earth

How far does one have to descend to reach the Dead Sea? About 400 meters below sea level. How deep is this salty lake? Almost the same (in the northern section). Fascinating? Absolutely! Every detail about the Dead Sea is fascinating.

Here are a few more facts: The Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth in any land mass (417 meters below sea level, to be exact). The quantity of water that evaporates from it is greater than that which flows into it, such that this body of water has the highest concentration of salt in the world (340 grams per liter of water).

It is called the Dead Sea because its salinity prevents the existence of any life forms in the lake. That same salt, on the other hand, provides tremendous relief to the many ailing visitors who come here on a regular basis to benefit from its healing properties. All these and more make the Dead Sea so fascinating, so different and so interesting.

The Dead Sea can also be called “the lowest health spa in the world.” Sea salts are produced from the southern section for industry, and in the northern section promote tourism and good health. The composition of the salts and minerals in the water are what make it so unique and beneficial for the body.

The sea bed also has deposits of black mud that is easy to spread on the body and provides the skin with nourishing minerals. As if that were not enough, the bromide in the air is also beneficial to the body’s systems, thus making the Dead Sea a provider for good health and healing for vacationers from all over the world.

It is a truly priceless national treasure. The western shore (inside Israel’s borders) is dotted with organized beaches and bathing areas that provide convenient access to the water. Beside two of the therapeutic beaches (Neve Zohar and Ein Bokek) large tourism centers have been established, providing the most pampering tourism services.

You will find dozens of hotels, hostels and guest houses, restaurants and shopping centers, as well as surprising tourism enterprises that offer a wide range of challenging activities (jeep and bicycle tours, camel tours and Bedouin hospitality, rappelling and more), alongside art and cultural activities (galleries and artists’ studios), and of course the unique agriculture, adapted to the local climate.

The Dead Sea is on the edge of the Judean Desert, a hot, barren region at the foot of Ha-He’etekim cliff, which has also become an important center of desert

tourism. The coastline is dotted with many springs, surrounded by wild plant life. The special combination that has formed in this place, between desert landscapes and oasies with plentiful water, plants and animals, attracts both the eye and the heart and draws many tourists to sites such as Mt. Sdom, Nakhal Darga, the Ein Gedi nature reserve and the Einot Tsukim (Ein Fashkha) reserve.

Photo: Dead Sea “Qalya” beach, Israel

Alongside these breathtaking natural sites there are also some purely historic sites of considerable importance in Israel’s past, which preserve the ancient charm of this area. Among the most prominent sites are the Massada fortress, ancient Ein Gedi and the Qumran cave site where ancient scrolls were found, including the Dead Sea scrolls, which offer some insights into early Christianity and the Essenes sect that lived at the site and is considered the beginning of Christian monasticism.

The northwestern region of the Dead Sea is also a pilgrimage site for Christians who have visited here over the centuries especially during the Easter season. From here they go to the Jordan (the traditional site of Jesus’ baptism), and many still follow this tradition in our times.

A tour of the Dead Sea region would not be complete without a visit to the amazing monasteries built on the cliff walls. In the fourth century ascetism became popular among Christians, who wanted to live their lives as Jesus had.

Many believers wanted to devote themselves to God and the Judean Desert became a ideal destination for monks, who built phenomenal monasteries, some of them carved into the stone faces of the desert cliffs. Among these monasteries are St. George, Quruntul, Khozeba and Mar Saba. Some of the monasteries are still operating and even welcome visitors, who can gain their own impressions of the intensity of the desert and its wild beauty.

Story courtesy of www.goisrael.com

The New

7 Wonders of Nature The Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, is one of the 28 finalists in the New 7 Wonders of Nature; an international online competition to grade the seven natural wonders of the world (www.new7wonders.com) To reach the final shortlist, this unique tourism site had to beat off about 440 sites from 220 countries.

The lowest place on earth will compete through 2011 for the hearts and votes of over a billion people from around the world, against 27 other sites including, among others, the River Amazon, the Galapagos Islands, the Grand Canyon and the Maldives.

Voting can take place directly at the competition website: www. new7wonders.com .

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NORTH of 50 December 2010 The Westsyde Fellowship Baptist Church held its second annual craft fair on November 13th. There were 55 tables chock full of crafts just in time for Christmas, as well as six winners in the afternoon raffle. Volunteers, right to left, Diane Kuchma, Lucie Bourgeois (centre) and daughter Danielle Bourgeois were kept busy at the concession all day. All of the society events and funding goes to improve the recreational opportunities in Westsyde, particularly for youth.

The funds raised at the craft fair this year will be combined and contribute to the Water Park in Centennial Park.

This project is estimated by the City to cost $300,000 in three phases, and the society’s contribution of 10% will require $30,000.

FLOATING ON A SNOW SUGAR HIGH, cont'd from page 12 another, accompanied by the magical hissing sound of my skis floating through cellophane sparkles of surface hoar. Heaven with a huge kick of adrenaline rush.

The phrase ego powder takes on new meaning.

No rest for the wicked. Four more fantastic runs on the same slope and we’re off in the cat to search out new terrain. Nick distributes a selection of veggie, chicken and ham gourmet sandwich wraps, oatmeal raisin and chocolate chip cookies, apples and stainless steel water bottles. The excitement has made us ravenous.

We eat on the cat ride not to waste valuable ski time. My legs are happy for the time-out.

“Let’s call this one Mystery Bowl,” says Nick, as we jump off the cat above a dense band of forest. “Lee will go ahead and radio back to us the safest way to the open slope.” My extensive hiking experience keeps me happy in the trees as long as I don’t have to go straight downhill. Following Nick’s tracks we traverse past huge Douglas firs into a sun-filled opening above a glorious run. The extra effort was well worth it.

Then, on to a third area for the last two runs of the day. Too tired to stay focused, I finally take a fall, a bit of a knee twister. Good to know Nick is a physiotherapist and pilates instructor in the off season should I need instant advice. So when a choice is offered for last run of the day, I play it safe, opting for the short route and ending on a high, full of confidence for the next adventure.

Then transformation. Not a sound as we jiggle along back to the parking lot. After the frenetic start to the day of selecting and adjusting equipment, signing waivers and loading cars and cats, the mood is mellow. Barely audible conversations feature favourite runs, eagerly anticipated hot tub beers and murmured plans for a group Asian fusion dinner at Drift Izakaya in downtown Rossland.

Later some chat with guides before bed at The Red Shutter Inn, Big Red Cats’ home base. On wobbly legs I stumble back to The Ram’s Head Inn just around the corner, where we will lay our heads in anticipation of a hearty breakfast and a rest day.

I can do this. Just not two days in a row – yet.

Cat chugging through the forest (page 12), guide leads off (above), Patti at the bottom of the warm up run (inset). Photos by Barry Hodgins.

NORTH of 50 December 2010

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15

Health Matters

Winter Weather Doesn’t Snowshoeing Offers Cause Colds Exercise, Sightseeing A myth still prevails that cold winter weather is the culprit behind seasonal colds and flu. However, medical research indicates that those who reside in cold climates are no more likely to suffer a cold than someone who is basking in warm temperatures.

It’s not wet hair or the lack of a hat that causes common illnesses; it’s the flu or cold germs floating in the air that are responsible for these maladies. The colder weather may contribute, though. When breathing in cold, dry air, blood vessels can constrict in the nasal passages and dry out in the process, producing less mucous. This can make the The cold weather or going outside without nose a more susceptible place for viruses to a hat isn’t a direct cause of colds infiltrate. and the flu.

The cold weather may also affect a person’s immune system response. Some people’s immune systems actually strengthen when the weather is cold, while others’ systems weaken. Therefore, it’s not exactly the cold weather that causes an illness, but it can play a role.

Similarly, when the weather outside is frightful people spend more time indoors, where airborne germs may be present. Once more, cold weather plays a role in illness but doesn’t exactly cause it.

Whether it’s rain or shine, cold or hot, the best way to avoid colds and the flu is to wash hands thoroughly and regularly, eat a healthy diet that keeps the body in illness-fighting form and avoid others in close quarters when they are sick.

Snowshoeing is a wintertime activity all can enjoy. While skiing may take a little more athletic prowess and training, snowshoeing provides exercise for all ages.

Many people may think of snowshoes as glorified tennis rackets attached to the bottom of shoes. But snowshoe apparel technology has evolved over the years.

Many of today’s snowshoes are made from lightweight aluminum and offer secure bindings and straps that keep the foot in place. Crampons may appear in the front and rear of the shoes for added traction. Some snowshoes may also have hinges that enable the foot to lift from the snow easily and offer added lateral support.

Unlike skiing or snowboarding, which requires designated slopes and courses, snowshoeing can occur just about anywhere there is an accumulation of at least 5 inches of snow. That means individuals can take to state parks or even their own neighborhoods to try snowshoeing. Also, while some sports may induce a little anxiety the first time around, the simplicity of snowshoeing can make the sport immediately enjoyable. All one really needs to know is how to walk and how to properly align their feet into the shoes.

Elaborate gear is not needed to when snowshoeing. Apart from the shoes, warm clothing and footwear from a person’s own closet is all that’s needed. Waterproof fabrics and wicking socks to keep out moisture are recommended, while dressing in layers enables a person to remain comfortable regardless of temperature. A backpack stocked with a snack and some beverages makes it easy to take a break on the trail and replenish. Walking poles can help snowshoers keep their balance and provide ease when hiking steep terrain.

Consider snowshoeing as an alternative to skiing or snowboarding when a lowerimpact sport is desired. With a little gear, it’s easy to get started right away.

Simple Solutions to Boost Your Energy Increasing daily energy levels is a goal for many men and women.

Many adults are increasingly looking to energy drinks or highly caffeinated beverages like coffee to get the job done, while others are fearful that such beverages, though effective at improving energy levels, could have an adverse effect on their overall health.

For those who feel energy drinks or another cup of coffee is not the ideal solution to increasing their energy levels, consider the following tips.

slowly and steadily increase the body's energy levels.

* Exercise. While it might seem counterintuitive to exercise if you're feeling fatigued, that fatigue might very well be a result of lack of exercise. Daily exercise helps increase energy levels and improve mood. Something as simple as taking a walk during a lunch break can vastly improve energy levels.

* Don't skip meals. Exhausted or fatigued men and women are often busy at work, which commonly results in missed meals. Skipping meals, according to studies published in the journal Nutritional Health revealed, leads to greater feelings of fatigue by day's end. Make eating all your meals a priority, and energy levels are likely to improve.

* Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can make people feel lethargic. Drinking the recommended daily amount of water can boost energy levels, especially after a workout when the body often craves fluids. * Carefully monitor sugar intake. Sweet foods with lots of sugar will provide an initial energy boost. However, that boost is fleeting, and blood sugar levels will rapidly drop after it. Instead of sugary snacks, select whole grain foods, which

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* Check magnesium levels. Constant feelings of fatigue could be indicative of a magnesium deficiency. Studies have shown that women with magnesium deficiencies expend more energy to do physical tasks than they did when their magnesium levels were restored. Almonds, hazelnuts and cashews are good sources of magnesium, as are whole grains and fish.

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NORTH of 50 December 2010

Wildlights 2010 at the Christmas Fare in 1917 BC Wildlife Park

By Sherry Bennett

Photo courtesy of Kamloops Museum & Archives Since time immemorial, Christmas has been a time of feasting.

Photos by: Kelly Funk, Natural Wonders Photography

The BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops is about to launch its 13th annual Wildlights Celebration. The highlight of this year’s event will once again be the “Symphony of Lights Show” which will feature a spectacular display of “Family Fireworks” and Lights synchronized to music nightly at 8:00 pm in our award winning outdoor Highland Valley Copper Amphitheatre.

This year’s event will include over 600,000 lights and 360 rope light sculptures. Visitors will have lots of activities to enjoy as they can dare to challenge the new and larger Giant Maze, or take a trip around the park on the Wildlife Express miniature train. Then take a Wagon Ride from the new Home Hardware “Double H Corral”, where you can enjoy getting up-close and personal with our farm animals, and don’t forget to take in the nightly Wolf Feedings.

Visitors young and old will be entertained by Uncle Chris the Clown nightly or simply take a leisurely stroll around the Park to see all the dazzling lights and light displays. Finally you can sit back, relax and sip hot chocolate around crackling campfires.

The Kamloops Transit System will once again be running a special Wildlights Express bus service that will leave and return to the Lansdowne Village Transit Exchange to the Park Entrance during our event. All bus riders receive $2.00 off the regular admission to the Park.

There would not be a Wildlights event without the generous support of the whole community, from individual volunteers; to businesses; to sponsors. Wildlights is about people working together to produce something unique to our region. It takes a lot of hands, time, and plenty of resources to make an event such as this happen.

Everyone connected to the Wildlife Park from staff, board members, and volunteers are proud to host an event that is now viewed as a local family tradition. Word has spread and now Wildlights is enjoyed by friends, relatives and tourists from around the world. The festival dates back to 1998, and since then, over 270,000 guests have marvelled at our dazzling show.

This year, the festival runs nightly from December 10, 2010 to January 2, 2011, every day except Christmas Day with operating hours from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Admission rates are $10.00 for adults, senior and youth (ages 13-16) are $9.00, Children (ages 3-12) are $7.00 and children two and under are free. The British Columbia Wildlife Park is located 15 minutes east of Kamloops on the Trans Canada Highway, and take exit 390 or 391. For more information please call 250573-3242 or visit our web site at www.BCzoo.org.

Through journals and period cookbooks we can catch a glimpse of the festive fare that trimmed pioneer tables in days gone by.

During the Christmas of 1841, Thompson’s River Post factor Donald Manson gifted each employee with ingredients for a modest feast—one quart each of flour and corn, three pounds of fresh horse meat, one pound of grease and one pint of wine.

By 1860 Donald’s son William, factor of the HBC, continued the tradition of goodwill, upping celebrations a notch with exotic additions including butter, currents, sugar, chocolate and grog.

Kamloops, at the turn of the century, was a prosperous city. With more than its fair share of single men, hotel proprietor’s put much effort into wooing bachelors to their gaily decorated dining rooms filled with tables covered in mouth-watering Christmas fare from the old country.

In 1917, with the realities of the First World War having settled into city kitchens, basic necessities became luxuries and Christmas foodstuffs took on a noticeably modest tone. It was in 1917 that the newly formed Soldiers’ Comforts Club published a Cookery Book comprised of recipes donated by Kamloops’ women.

The purpose of the book was to raise funds to purchase field comforts for the men of the district who were serving their King and Country.

Below are several tried and true Christmas recipes that appeared in the cookbook.

Options existed for those bakers who could afford the 30 cents a pound for peels, raisins and nuts, and those who could not.

Plum Pudding – Mrs. R.H. Lee 1 pound stoned raisins saturated with 4 tablespoonfuls of brandy; 2 ounces citron peel; 1 ounce each of orange and lemon peel; 4 ounces blanched almonds; 1 pound currents; 1 pound beef suet, chopped fine and rubbed with 4 tablespoonfuls flour; 1 pound light brown sugar; 1 pound bread crumbs; 1 grated nutmeg; 2 teaspoonfuls each of cinnamon and allspice; 1 teaspoonful each of cloves and mace; 1 teaspoonful of salt.

Pour over all, 8 tablespoonfuls of Sherry. Cover lightly and keep in a cool place for one or two days. Just before boiling add 8 well-beaten eggs and enough sweet cream to moisten—simply needs to be soft. The above will make two fair-sized puddings. Have water boiling hard when puddings are placed in and never allow it to get off the boil. Boil for five hours.

Gingerbread – Mrs. Bunberry 3/4 cup butter; 1 cup sugar; 1 tablespoonful of ginger; 3 well-beaten eggs; 1 cup of treacle (molasses); 1 teaspoonful of soda dissolved in 1 cup of sour milk; 3 cups flour; pinch of salt.

Mix in the order named and bake in a shallow tin 30 to 40 minutes.

Information contained in this article extracted from essays by Elisabeth Duckworth and Ken Favrholdt.

NORTH of 50 December 2010

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Thompson/Nicola/South Cariboo

Word Search & Crosswords

HOLIDAYS AFAR BELLS BLITZEN CANDYCANE CARD CARE CELEBRATION CHEER CHIMNEY COLD COOKIES EAT ELF ENJOY FROST GIFT GINGERBREAD GLISTEN GOLD GREEN HOLIDAY

HOLLY JINGLE JOLLY JOY MERRY NOEL NORTHPOLE NUTCRACKER PEACE PRANCER PRESENT RED REINDEER RUDOLF SACK SANTA SKI SLED SNOW SNOWBALLS STAR

TINSEL TOYS TREAT TREE TURKEY WINTER WREATH YULE

Find the words in the grid. When you are done, the unused letters spell out a hidden message. Words can go left or right, top line to bottom line. Words can go horizontally, vertically and diagonally in all eight directions. Answers to puzzle is on page 18.

ACROSS 1 Hoopla 4 Estimated time of arrival 7 Public transportation 10 Dignitary 11 Metalworker 13 Fire remains 14 East southeast 15 White poplar 16 Honey maker 17 Cola brand 19 Comedian Griffith

21 Heats food 23 Freudian selves 26 Charge for hauling 29 Genetic identical 30 Behind 31 Just 33 Expert 34 Tempos 36 Responded 38 Preparation (abbr.)

39 Pancake topper 40 Fury

42 Equity 46 Boxer Muhammad 48 Elliptic 50 Popeye’s yes 51 Wear 52 Annoys 53 Hotel 54 Cat’s nemesis 55 Scarlet 56 Conger

DOWN 1 Declare 2 Phonograph record 3 Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries 4 Government trade sanction 5 Truss 6 Book of maps 7 Kid (2 wds.)

8 Utilize 9 That girl 11 Bows 12 Egg layer 18 Night bird 20 Delaware 22 Holiday spirit 24 Fairy tale opener 25 Origination 26 Zither 27 Far away 28 Speaking 29 Separate parts of a document 32 Supplied oxygen 35 Environmental protection agency (abbr) 37 Cycles per second 39 Take apart 41 Governor 43 Relieve 44 Use a keyboard 45 Make tight 46 Attention-Deficit Disorder (abbr.)

47 Water closet 49 Hatchet

SUDOKU Each Sudoku puzzle is a 9 by 9 grid of horizontal and vertical rows evenly separated into 9 squares with 9 spaces each. Each puzzles solution is determined by the pattern of the numbers already filled in. You solve the puzzle by filling in the missing digits so that, when completed, each row and each square will have all numbers from1 to 9: each number will appear in exactly nine spaces within each puzzle.Sudoku solution on page 18

5

8 1

1

6

7

2

2

4

7 3

6

1

7

4

5 8 9

3 7

3 4

1

7 8

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1st The Soviet satellite, Sputnik 6, was launched into orbit with two dogs and some mice, insects and plants. The next day, the capsule was reported to have burned up on re-entry into the atmosphere at too steep an angle. Later reports said a self-destruct system had been built to destroy the satellite if it did not re-enter at the correct time, in order to prevent it from landing outside of the Soviet Union 1st Paul McCartney and Pete Best were arrested, then deported from Hamburg, Germany, accused of attempted arson 2nd Rick Savage, bass player with Def Leppard was born 3rd Actresses Julianne Moore and Daryl Hannah were both born on this day 3rd The play “Camelot” opened at New York’s Majestic Theater and ran for 873 performances 9th Coronation Street was first broadcast on British ITV 16th A mid air collision over Staten Island killed all 134 passengers on flights TWA 266 & United 826.

17th Quebec was the last province to agree to the National Health Act. 25th Vocalist Amy Grant was born on Christmas Day, 1960

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