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DECEMBER 2018 vol 14 issue 12
Serving Vancouver Island & the Gulf Islands
A Different Kind of Parliament •
10 John Beaton’s: “A Christmas Carol II” • 12
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Christmas in Oceanside. Traditions to Enjoy. •
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MAGAZINE THE FEATURES 4 Christmas in Oceanside. Traditions to Enjoy. 10 A Different Kind of Parliament vol 14 No 12
DECEMBER 2018
EyesOnBC Magazine is published monthly Showcasing our community since 2004 Main Email: info@eyesonbc.com Phone: 250-757-9914 Mailing Address EyesOnBC Magazine, Box 182, Bowser, BC V0R 1G0 Hours: Tue - Thu 10-4 Our Contributors this month: Georgia Nicols, Joanne Sales, Linda Tenney John Beaton, Dawn Hunter Clark, Micki Findlay, Fran Thorburn-Polo On the Internet www.eyesonbc.com & www.facebook.com/eyesonbc For Advertising Options Email info@eyesonbc.com to request ad rates. VISA, MasterCard and e-Transfers accepted
THE ARTS / OUTDOORS / HEALTH 12 14 15 16 20 23
John Beaton’s “A Christmas Carol ll” The Mother of All Christmas Gifts Now that Old Age is Creeping In ... ECHO: Peter Pan Books by local authors for your holiday gift giving Tide Table - inside back cover
COMMUNITY LIVING
7 Community Briefs
THE REGULARS 8 21 22 23
Georgia Nicols Horoscope Community Calendar At Your Service - Local Services & Trades Classifieds
Articles and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and published for general information purposes only. Articles are not intended to provide specific advice - the publisher will assume no liability. Articles and/or data may not be quoted or reproduced, in part or in whole, without permission from the publisher. Freelance writers & photographers Queries can be directed to Linda Tenney, Publisher at info@eyesonbc.com
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Christmas in Oceanside... Traditions to Enjoy! C The Old School House (TOSH) - submitted photo
by Dawn Hunter Clark
hristmas in Oceanside is traditionally special. It is a time to gather with friends and family from far and near. A time to share a meal, swap stories, exchange gifts and create new memories to share on holidays to come. Sometimes we get lucky and it snows for a day and other days, it is wonderful to walk along a beach at Christmas time. There are several places in Oceanside to celebrate the holiday season and many of these places have been celebrating for many years. VIU’s Milner Gardens is a fabulous place to get into the Christmas spirit. Through the forest, set against the ocean is a gem built in the 1930s by General Noel Money for his mother and sister. After a short time, the property was purchased by Ray Milner. It was his second wife Veronica, who took the property to the next level with her passion for gardening. VIU
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continues this passion today, combined with education and events for the community.
This holiday season visit Milner Gardens to participate in Milner Christmas Magic that runs December 2nd, 7th-9th, 14th & 19th where over half a kilometre of lights brightens up the forest. The fabulous light show leads to the historic tea house, Santa, the Teddy Bear Cottage and live music. Join the magic at 2179 West Island Highway in Qualicum Beach. Just down the road from Milner Gardens is another historical property built in 1913 by General Money. A place to stop during the holiday season to enjoy the decorations and feel of the season. This jewel is the Crown
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Mansion. A gorgeous boutique hotel rich in history and glamour. It’s a place where celebrations have historically taken place with famous celebrities and politicians. It’s a place where you can spend the night within the same walls as Bing Crosby, who sang a few tunes around the dining room table at Christmas. Visit the Crown Mansion this Christmas at 292 Crescent Road East in Qualicum Beach. A place like no other. If you want to take in a live show this holiday season, visit the Village Theatre at 110 West 2nd Avenue in Qualicum Beach The Village Theatre has been a prime spot for the town since it was built CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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originally as a movie theatre in 1949. After twenty-five years, the movie theatre became a live stage theatre when ECHO Players purchased it to house their acting troupe, which was developed in 1934.
novelties, gifts and toys. And be sure to check out WabiSabi Surf Shop and the Chinese Antique Shop for that one-of-a-kind gift you’ve been looking for. And, if you have guests coming and you don’t want to cook, dine at Cuckoo’s – delicious food in a beautiful Tuscan setting. You can find this treasure of the season 2326 Alberni Highway in Coombs.
The goal of ECHO is ~ “To nurture the love of theatre, we explore, expand and develop theatrical talent and we create quality entertainment for our community.”
Another live event you can take part in is “Music on Sunday” an event held at the Old Schoolhouse Arts Centre. Get your tickets to the Christmas Concert with Tony Booker and friends on December 9th. The Old Schoolhouse has been around since 1914 and is located 122 Fern Road in Qualicum Beach. It has been a staple in the town from the beginning. It is a wonderful thing to be able to enjoy a place that has enhanced this community in so many ways for as long as it has. The art, the culture, the history – the Old Schoolhouse Arts Centre has it all. And a place to enjoy the arts this season.
Historically, there has always been a special show during the Christmas season. This Christmas get your tickets to “Peter Pan”. The classic tale of the boy who did not want to grow up. One who lives in Neverland with a life full of adventure, and one you can enjoy from December 13th-30th. A magical story during a magical time.
Be sure to visit the Qualicum Beach Chamber of Commerce, Parksville Chamber of Commerce, or Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism online at www.visitparksvillequalicumbeach.com for other local holiday events and celebrations.
And after the show, enjoy a stroll through downtown where the displays, lights and music can take you to your own Neverland.
Oceanside is one of the best places to celebrate the joy of this season. Keep the festivities going as it has always been – a Historically Wonderful Oceanside Christmas in paradise. Happy Holidays to All!
If you want to take a short ride from town, to get some unique shopping ideas for the holidays, head to Coombs and be sure to check out the Coombs Country Market.
Milner Gardens - Linda Tenney photo
The market began as a little fruit stand beside the highway in 1973. It was created by Kristian and Solveig Graaten who both immigrated from Norway in the 1950s. In time, the little fruit stand became a market. The Graaten’s brought with them, Norwegian inspiration. That inspiration is what drove Kristian to put a sod roof on the market. It is now one of the most famous sod roofs in the world. When the grass began to grow, they decided to put goats on the roof to keep the grass trim. The goats became an instant hit and became a mainstay of the market, which is more commonly known as the “Goats on the Roof”. The market is a wonderful place to do your holiday shopping. There is a deli, fresh produce, unique gifts, a bakery, a restaurant and an ice cream shop. There is also the gift shop where you can get
Dawn Hunter Clark is a local author living in Bowser, BC. Her recently published book "Paranormal Canadian Tales: A Supernatural Journey" has received rave reviews and is available on Amazon.
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Community Briefs A LIONS SHARE OF GENEROSITY
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ualicum Bay Lions members Shirley Phillips (President), George Stringer (past president) and Oscar Moria present Bowser Elementary School Principal Kevin Mckee, Vice Principal Brian Worthen and Hot Lunch Cook Megan Bell with a generous donation to assist with their Hot Lunch Program. The money donated will be used for nutritious meals for many students. Bowser Elementary School staff thank the Qualicum Bay Lions for their continued support for the students. ~
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Predictions for December 2018 Aries (March 21-April 19) This month you will do everything in your power to study, travel and discover new, stimulating experiences! You will enjoy meeting people from different backgrounds because you want to break free from your routine. Obviously, travel is a wonderful choice; however, your challenge is that Mercury is also retrograde in the part of your chart related to travel. This means your best option is to travel somewhere you have been before. Fortunately, retrograde Mercury will help you study history and delve into the past. Taurus (April 20-May 20) You are the most tactile sign the zodiac, and this month heightens your desire to experience life on a feeling level. Yes, this includes sex. An intellectual understanding of things is not enough. You want to get your hands wet. You want to step in every puddle, which is why you will undergo moments of soul-searching, self inquiry. You might encounter someone who challenges your values and makes you stop and think. Expect to focus on finances, shared property, inheritances, taxes, debt and anything that is held jointly with someone else. Gemini (May 21-June 20) This month is not a time to go it alone. Au contraire. Seek others out! Consult experts.
Form working units with others. It’s an excellent time to examine your close relationships and discover what needs a relationship does or does not fulfil for you. Remember, in a successful relationship, you must be as good for your partner as he or she is for you. You might understand how to handle conflict better. It will be a learning experience and a rewarding one. Cancer (June 21-July 22) This month you will think about how you should manage your life. What duties and responsibilities are important? You will be concerned with how you do things. You want to make every action count, which is why you will refine your techniques of whatever you do so that you are efficient, effective and productive. This thinking will lead to an interest in your health. Look at your body and see how you can help it to function better. Remember: A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand. (Yummers!) Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Lucky you! This is the only month all year when your main focus is on fun, romance, pleasure and finding a chance to express yourself freely and be exactly who you are! Make sure that you get out and have a good time because this is what you really want to do. Romance will flourish. You will enjoy restaurants, hotels, plays, the theatre, movies and
sports events. Your concern with your kids will be stronger. This month is the best time to be yourself. Make sure you do exactly what you want! Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Home, family and your private life are your major focus this month. Some will want to cocoon at home. Others will focus on home repairs, home redecorating projects or entertaining family members. (“We’re back!”) Be patient with partners while Mars is opposite your sign for the next month. Patience is a marvellous virtue to cultivate but we can only cultivate it if we are irritated! (You don’t need patience to sit in the Sun sipping a margarita.) This is why your enemy can be your best friend. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) This month you’re interested in friends, neighbours, relatives and daily contacts. Even a casual relationship might suddenly be meaningful. You’re keen to communicate. The tempo of your days will accelerate with a fun, busy schedule full of appointments, tasks, meetings and fascinating short trips. Take a vacation if you can. You will be more verbal because you want to tell others what you think! “Now hear this. Now hear this.” (Don’t leave home without your megaphone.)
Are you ready for a change?
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Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) This month is a preview about how you can boost your earnings in 2019. Not only will you think of money and earnings, but at a deeper level, you will reflect upon your values and what it is important to you, including your possessions around you. Do they serve your needs or do you serve theirs? You might make a big purchase or show something off because you take pleasure in something you own. And rest assured – the money will come! Ka-ching! Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) This month the Sun is in your sign -- plus, your ruler lucky Jupiter along with retrograde Mercury. (Get thee to three-way mirror!) Because the Sun is everyone’s source of energy, this is your chance to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. Whatever you do will magically replenish and rejuvenate yourself. You will make a great impression on others; however, it might be more challenging to work with others because you will put yourself first. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Because your birthday is just a month away, this means your personal year is coming to an end. This also means this month is the perfect time to keep a low profile and seek out opportunities to reflect, ponder and think about how you are doing at the art of living. Look back over your last year. What kind of report card would you give yourself? What pleased you? What would you like to change? Identify some of these things because it will help you to make wise and effective decisions about what you want for your new year ahead that begins with your birthday in one month. When you set a goal, you take the first step to turning the invisible into the visible. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) You will love the month ahead! Your sign values friendship more than any other. You were born to network. You understand the power of the gathering together of like-minded individuals to make the world better place. You have ideals. This month you will be involved with clubs, organizations. and friends, Someone from your past will come forth and this will make a difference for you. Socialize extensively to establish your relationship to your tribe. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) The coming year is a powerful year and the month is its introduction. This month the Sun, Jupiter and retrograde Mercury are all at the top of your chart making you cast your sites on your career and your reputation in your community. You will be in a flattering spotlight – which is why you will impress others, particularly people in power. This gives you a tremendous advantage to steer things the way you want! This is your month to dazzle!
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Yvonne White, Owner/Stylist
Linda Hall, Stylist
Your Holiday Beauty Team Call today to book your appointment with Yvonne White or Linda Hall
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who do not yet know that they are grieving.”
A DIFFERENT KIND OF PARLIAMENT by Joanne Sales
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ecember is the month of Holidays. Holy-days. It is the month when we are set up to consume more than we need, spend more than we have and suffer from the confusion of love and material things. Even still, it is a month of many gifts, and we have choices. In early November, I attended the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Toronto. People always ask me: When over 7500 people of the 220 religious traditions get together, what do they talk about? What do they care about? The theme of the Parliament was “The Promise of Inclusion. The Power of Love.” The presentations themselves were very practical: How do we save the planet from ourselves? We humans have the potential to end life on this planet, and that is the direction we are heading. How can we join together to solve the collective problems of climate change, ecological devastation, nationalism and violence? This is what we talked about. Simply being at the Parliament was an incredible experience. Going up and down the escalators many times a day, one would be face to face with members of every possible religion - Hindus, Sikhs, Jews, Muslims, Christians, Indigenous shamans, Buddhists, pagans, and on and on. Conflicts arise for many reasons, but as many speakers emphasized, there was and is no foundational conflict between different religions. As one speaker put it, “God is certainly capable of creating multiple One-and-Only religions.” Perhaps
we could think of them as unique holograms. The Sikh community of Toronto prepared a free lunch for anyone and everyone. They fed thousands of people over those seven days. Feeding people is their spiritual practice, their gift to the world. That kind of generosity and practical application was the theme of the whole gathering. In this limited space, I will only be able to share a few of the messages from the amazing speakers. Margaret Atwood and Karen Armstrong are well known, but most speakers were not famous. But they are active. Powerful women and men, indigenous leaders from across Canada and the globe, young people, elders, artists and learners from every continent. The message was clear – we may be flawed and frail humans, but we are the only ones who can save this planet. For those of us with a religious bent, it is our mandate to protect Creation. For everyone, from the standpoint of evolution, who are we to destroy over 3 ½ billion years of evolution for the satisfaction of our momentary desires or because we are too distracted and attached to adapt? Those of you who read last month’s article know that I was thrown into deep grief when my young dog was killed on the road in October. I didn’t expect my ongoing grief to be addressed at the Parliament. But as the now Episcopal priest, Matthew Fox, said, “There are two kinds of people in the world. Those who know they are grieving and those
The United Nations report of 2018 gave us 12 years before life as we know it will be beyond recognition. Other speakers on Climate Change were less optimistic. A woman from the Marshall Islands pleaded with humanity to make the changes necessary to keep global temperatures from rising above 1.5 degrees. At 2 degrees, in a very few years, the ancient islands of her country of over 53,000 residents will disappear into the ocean. Her grief was apparent. We too are an island. The earth is our island. The Palestinian physician, Izzeldin Abuelaish, told us his story, which he wrote about in his book, I Shall Not Hate. He watched his three daughters and a niece die from Israeli bomb shells shot into their bedroom. In spite of his grief, he continued his commitment to peace and to serving both his Palestinian and Israeli patients. Hundreds of us in the audience were crying as he spoke. We humans find rationalizations to drop bombs on innocent children, but the magnitude of heart of this Palestinian doctor is also something that we humans are capable of. “What we need is respect, and the inner strength to refuse to hate…. Let my daughters be the last to die.” Love is what makes us vulnerable to grief, but it is the humbling power of grief that ultimately may save us from our own stupidity. Grief makes us more real, more competent, more passionate, more compassionate. Karen Armstrong said, “We should allow ourselves to be disturbed and worried – these are the seeds of compassion.” Matthew Fox was formerly a Roman Catholic priest, but he was dismissed because he chose to believe in Original Blessing instead of Original Sin as our natural state. (Churches are progressing, as evidenced by the messages of Pope Francis.) continued next page
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On Sunday morning, Fox led what they call the Cosmic Mass which hundreds of people attended. During those two hours, hundreds of us prayed in the Four Directions, walked a spiral circle dance, and even got down on our knees in the darkened room with forehead to the ground to grieve. We then got up and danced, to inspiring and freeing music from some African musicians. There is life after grieving!
goodness and love you generate in this age of darkness will bring thousands of times more benefit to you than it would in an easier time.
The community was very uplifting. Many times, I joined circles of people doing Dances of Universal Peace, which honors all spiritual traditions. One day, I was holding hands with a joyful, Gospel-singing black Southern Christian and a Buddhist nun. My next partner was a Jew, and then a Sikh. We were singing sacred Islamic phrases about the Oneness of God. It is possible to live in peace.
Another speaker reminded us that love is our only way forward. But Love is a verb, not a soggy, sentimental emotion. Love is the power that enables and inspires us to look out for each other.
Humanity has wiped out 60% of mammals, birds, fish and reptiles since 1970. The sadness of that loss, and the fear of greater loss, are present in everyone’s hearts, whether we recognize it or not. We are all connected. This fear and unacknowledged grief are driving people to the disease of nationalism. As Karen Armstrong described it, “people are retreating into nationalistic ghettos.” But other people are also choosing better paths. The tragic murders of Jews in their synagogue in Pittsburg by a White Supremacist had just happened. The murderer was taken to a hospital where his life was saved. The Jewish president of the hospital came to his room and gently introduced himself to the murderer. “I’m the president of the hospital. My name is Dr. Cohen.”
Multiple speakers emphasized that the call for inclusion is not for only humanity, but for all living beings. The indigenous people have always led the way to this breadth of inclusion, while other segments of humanity have been slow to understand our oneness with all living beings – and the earth. One man from South America, looking back at the horrors of colonization and slavery, and the continuing devastation of indigenous communities and of the earth itself by mostly white multinational corporations, said boldly, “White Christianity is Satanic.” (He himself was a Christian – so he recognizes a diminished version of his own faith.)
On the last day of the Parliament, I attended a talk by a Hindu, Swami Sarvapriyananda. (I won’t be able to do justice to him. Watch his YouTube videos.) He invited us to re-look at our isolating and diminished sense of identity. The talk was over 1.5 hours but was very simple.
Another Christian speaker at PoWR said he was frequently asked how some extreme, right-wing Evangelical churches can support racism, military violence, hatred, and even caging children. “Well, in politics, sometimes we have to trade off things,” he said. “In this case, they traded off Jesus.” These are extreme statements. But these are extreme times.
Open hearted people are stepping forward. On that Saturday, the Muslims of Toronto surrounded the local synagogues in a sign of support, in the same way that the Jews had surrounded their mosques after they had been attacked months earlier.
There were also messages of hope. As one speaker said, “Don’t underestimate the ability of humanity to quickly change and adapt.” “We didn’t move beyond the Stone Age because we ran out of stones. We just found a better way.”
The Hindu tradition says that we are at the end of the Kali Yuga, a long age of darkness. At the beginning of this dark age, the people begged the Divine Mother Kali, “How shall we survive?” She responded, “I will give you a boon” - a guaranteed blessing. Whatever light,
Who are you? You are not your body … Your body changes over time – but you are the same you. Right? You are also not your body because you can see your body; the body is an object of the five senses … But you are also not your eyes and ears, because you can observe them at work … Your hand is not conscious of you, but you are conscious of your hand - so you are the conscious one … Your inner experiences are always changing – I’m hungry, now I’m not. (Or angry, lonely, happy, busy …). You can observe the changes in your mind and emotions – so you are not the mind… Who is observing the changes? Even if we manage to reach the quiet, empty level of mind, “to whom does that blankness appear?” Science simply cannot solve the problem of consciousness that you all experience. The Swami told an ancient story of ten friends who swam across a river. When they got out of the water, one man counted his nine companions and started to cry. “Oh, no, one of us has continued on page 18
Please join us at the Dances of Universal Peace Winter Solstice Celebration at Errington Hall, Dec 22, 6:00. Contact Joanne with questions. joanne@glasswing.com. Joanne Sales is a freelance writer, blueberry farmer, and offers workshops in EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), and the fine art of brewing Kombucha. Comments and questions about her articles and/or upcoming workshops can be directed to joanne@glasswing.com. D E C E M B E R
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POETRY
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n this poem, Scrooge starts out generous and gets converted backwards. Dickens would turn in his grave!
A CHRISTMAS CAROL II Ebenezer is partying—turkey galore for Cratchit and biker-friends, Scratchit and Hairy, with flagons of beer that he "bought" from the store— his credit ran out so he had to get scary.
ABOUT THIS POEM
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he poem is in a quasi-sonnet form: fourteen four-beat (tetrameter) lines (as in "ebeNEzer is PARTying, TURkey gaLORE") rhymed abab cdcd efef gg. The beats generally have three syllables each (anapestic). No publisher has previously touched it with a barge-pole.
It's his Christmas Eve revel. An Angel friend, Harley clanks in with three ghosts who, although they are pissed, give good visitations. They put on Bob Marley and pick up four ghouls for the poltergeist twist. Says the Ghost of the Past, "You've lived high on the hawg." and the Ghost of the Present, "Your loan-shark sees red." then the Ghost of the Future, "Free turkey and grog will for sure cook your goose and the stuffing ain’t bread."
EDITORS NOTE: Apparently EyesOnBC Magazine's publisher has a large barge-pole!
Scrooge yanks back the turkey, yells “BYOB. And switch off the Marley. It’s not the real me."
John Beaton lives in Qualicum Beach. His poetry has been widely published. He served for four years as moderator of one of the Internet’s most reputable poetry workshops and is a Spoken Word performer, a member of the band Celtic Chaos, and a co-organizer of local events, including a community showcase for musicians and Spoken Word performers, the Qualicum Acoustic Café (QUAC). You can find samples of John’s work by searching online for “John Beaton poetry”. To receive a monthly newsletter about local community events organized by John and his family and friends, email him at jabeaton@gmail.com. ~
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WINTER AT THE MAC BY CARLA FLEGEL
ART FOR YOUR EYES THE GIFT
at the McMillan Arts Centre, Parksville
Dress Yourself in Holiday Style
December 4 – 22
An exhibit of original art submitted by members of the Oceanside Community Arts Council. THE GIFT features 10”x10” pieces of 2D artwork – multi mediums including acrylic, oil, pastel, photography and mosaics. All pieces are $100 and we are encouraging our community to give a piece from this exhibit as A GIFT this season – content is not necessarily related to the Christmas season; many are celebrating Gifts of family, freedom, nature and more. Truly a unique and must-see exhibit – all 10x10”, all 2D, all $100.
ART FOR YOUR EARS
and enjoy Pre-Christmas Sale discounts of 40% off everything ... including silver jewellery!
at the McMillan Arts Centre, Parksville
MILDLY WILD JAZZ CONCERT
Friday, December 9th, 7pm Tickets $18/$15 OCAC Mildly Wild is a new original music project that has evolved out of the Eryn Sharpe Trio, a jazz group featuring vocalist Eryn Sharpe as well as Leon Nagasaki on Guitar and Nick Mintenko on upright bass. In the summer of 2015, the trio recorded their album ‘One Day’ on Hornby Island. Marc Atkinson, the producer, played drums on the record and influenced the trio to add drums and incorporate more pop elements in their sound. Joined now by Alex Campbell on drums, Mildly Wild pulls together new and classic influences like the Beatles, Norah Jones and Lake Street Dive, in a unique way.
Style at Arbutus Eye-catching! • Memorable!
147 West Second Avenue Qualicum Beach
The concert will include a mixture of jazz, r&b, and pop and will feature our new original music recorded with Grammy-nominated producer, Joby Baker, in June 2018. D E C E M B E R
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The Mother of All Christmas Gifts by Micki Findlay
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e have all received them at one time or another. You know, those… um… special gifts that make us wonder what on earth the person was thinking; ones that turn us into improv actors at best; liars at worst. One, in particular, stands out for me. I had received, what I consider to be, the mother of all special gifts; one that left me speechless; one that called into serious question the mental state of its donor. Micki Findlay is the founder of Works of HeART Project – ‘Inspiring Positive Change Through Artistic Expression’. This is a Vancouver Islandbased initiative that challenges racism and bullying and promotes kindness and inclusion through creative means. Micki is a new, contributing author to the ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ series and Eyes on BC magazine. She has fought and won the long battle of depression and her hope is that the transparency in her writing, and the message behind the WOH project, will give hope to those who might otherwise feel like giving up. To find out how you can help make a difference go to: Website: www.worksofheartproject.com Facebook: worksofheartproject Twitter: WOHproject Instagram: worksofheartproject
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Family and friends were invited to celebrate Christmas at my mother’s place. We gathered around her tinsel-covered artificial tree, awaiting the gift-opening with anticipation. I say anticipation, but I really mean trepidation because, when it came to my mom, one never knew what to expect. Sometimes, she would re-gift our gifts back to us. Did she think we wouldn’t notice? Other times, her gifts made no sense; like when she gave me a book called, ‘Beekeeping in Nova Scotia’. I have neither lived in Nova Scotia, nor expressed an interest in beekeeping. At any rate, what I was about to receive had officially brought her gift-giving to a whole new level of eccentricity. Everyone watched expectantly as I began to tear the wrapping paper off my present. I was nervous about what I would uncover. One could almost hear jaws drop as we all stared wide-eyed at the spectacle laid bare before us. I was suddenly reminded of a line from an infamous Christmas poem but with a slight modification… ‘When what to my wondering eyes should appear; 30 boxes of tampons marked, “To Daughter Dear.”’ Yes. Tampons. 30 boxes. In all shapes and sizes. 30 blue boxes of shame staring up at me. What was I to do? What was I to say? I was at a loss for words. My brother-in-law fidgeted in his seat as his face turned the same colour as his flaming red hair. My husband looked at me, looked at my mother, then back at me. A
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friend looked down at her nails, then out the window. You could hear a pin drop. Was this a joke? Should we laugh? My mother wasn’t laughing. If anything she looked pleased, as if she had given me the most wondrous gift ever. I had been raised to always be grateful and show appreciation for whatever I was given. So, as the dutiful daughter, I thanked her while trying to keep the bewilderment from showing on my face. As I choked back a nervous giggle, I asked her how she had accumulated so many boxes of… well… you know. Her reply was almost as unsettling as the gift itself; “Well, some of them I saved for you after my menopause kicked in and some were delivered for free in my mailbox. So, I went around to all my neighbours and told them I was putting together a care package for my daughter who lives way up north, and would they be so kind as to donate their free packages to the cause?” Once again, we were all rendered speechless. The long, awkward silence was finally broken by my son, who asked innocently, “What are those, daddy?” “Mommy will explain later,” he replied. (Oh great.) “Here, open a present. Quickly.” As it turned out, the tampons were unusable. My mom had stored them under her bathroom sink where a slow leak had made them all hard and crunchy – a leak she never knew about because my ‘Christmas gift’ had soaked up all of the moisture. Needless to say, they all ended up in the landfill. A shame, really, after all the work she had put into collecting them. Regardless of what you may be thinking, I can assure you, this story is absolutely true. Who could make this stuff up? As they say, “Fact is often stranger than fiction.” Truer words were never spoken. Soak them up. Merry Christmas. ~
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NOW THAT OLD AGE IS CREEPING IN, I THINK I’VE FINALLY FIGURED IT OUT! don’t believe one really recovers from culture shock; you just adjust and get on with it. In the process though, I had to re-learn and re-evaluate my whole belief system. It was rough; it was shocking, and it was a rocking hard adjustment
Editors note: Fran Thorburn is embarking on a new life path - one promising the realization of a life-long dream ... to build a bridge between cultures. Here is her story. by Fran Thorburn-Polo
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've spent most of my life questioning my 'calling', what my purpose is, and what I'm supposed to be doing with my life. I'm a wife and a mum, and a grannie, too. When my children lived at home, my role as a Mum felt safe and I had an obvious purpose. But then they left home, leaving me with the thought, “It’s your turn now. Go and do what you want”. And there I found myself, back at that old place with the same old questions: “What do I want? What is my purpose”? It seems some people are born knowing what they want to do, and some of us go through life forever wondering what that purpose is; hoping it will reveal itself before it’s too late. I fall into this latter category!
Basically, my role will be working with local communities preparing them to host visitors to their communities; creating and initially escorting tours; marketing and writing about these experiences: (see fransjournal.com). The end goal is to cut out the middle man as much as possible, i.e. once the tours are established there will be no need for an escorted tour guide. The tours will be run locally, and all visits to communities and home-stays will be paid directly to the hosts.
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Accommodations will be in home-stays while visiting communities. Meals will be taken with home-stay hosts and out in the communities. Visitors will be encouraged to bring something from home - something cultural. For example, in BC it has become customary to bring a dish to a dinner event; pot luck is what we call it. So you can bring something from home that is traditional and easy to travel with, i.e. homemade chocolate chip cookies. These can be brought to the table and offered as your contribution. As this is not of their culture this allows you an opportunity to explain about your favourite cookies and why, maybe it’s your mother’s recipe; and to explain how it has become traditional to bring something to put on the table when visiting friends. It doesn’t have to be food, it can be photos of your family, it can be a traditional dress, or an instrument you play so you can share music with everyone. It can be anything that is of a traditional or cultural interest. It’s all about social interaction where fun and laughter and storytelling help break down barriers, open up communication allowing both hosts and visitors to learn about each other; just like a dinner party at home!
This is what I see - I see a fun way forward by using cultural tourism as a vehicle and creating tours where we visit and interact with the many diverse cultures calling Mother Earth their home. Through these interactions the goal is for us all to broaden our outlook and understanding, and gain appreciation of our diversities. It’s to make new friends, help each other find sustainable solutions that are plaguing all cultures, and discover new opportunities to move forward.
It all began in Uganda, where I was born and lived my first 23 years. My dad was also raised in Africa; his home was Kenya before moving to Uganda in 1950. We both enjoyed debating on subjects as far as our knowledge and understanding allowed us; one of those subjects being, the white man’s role in Africa, and why it was important for them to change the local cultural ways? My dad's reasoning was always the same, “We’re here to help bring the Africans into the modern world, to help better their lives, to educate them,” he said. In a way it made some sense, but the concept made me uncomfortable. At the time I didn’t understand why, I just accepted that the white man knew what he was doing, and that he cared about Africa!
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We cannot do anything about the past, but we can now try and focus on ways forward that are fair and honest and not ruled by corruption, arrogance and ignorance Hence, my vision of “Weaving Cultural Trails”, which I believe can only work if it rests on virtues of acceptance, respect, trust and a belief in equality.
Have you ever looked back on your life and realized that everything you've experienced has brought you to this point, and it seems there’s a reason? Well, I believe this is my case.
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I won’t dwell on all the lessons learned and the many life experiences that brought me to my present understanding of man’s righteous and caring nature! Let’s just say history is our great teacher revealing the trails of destruction and devastation caused by men who ruled based on corrupt desires, arrogance and an ignorant belief system. To me it feels like we are currently living in a world filled with fear, mistrust and misunderstandings.
What to expect as a visitor?
My first tour will be a “pilot project” to Uganda where I have contacts. The aim is for the spring of 2020; if that does not work, then the fall of the same year. The reason for these seasons is because it’s the off season and prices drop for travel and accommodation etc. Uganda is not only rich in different cultures; it’s famous for wildlife, and bird watching. Incorporating visits to game parks and bird viewing is easy as we have to travel through game parks to reach communities! To make the tour comfortable, I would suggest a 3-week tour, as Uganda is eleven hours ahead of us and about 18 hours flying time! It takes a day or two to adjust, but this is not written in stone yet. continued on page 19
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ECHO PLAYERS PRESENTS:
Peter Pan by Linda Attley
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eter Pan is flying in to the Village Theatre for the ECHO Players Christmas production, opening on Wednesday 13th December and closing on Sunday 30th December. Peter Pan tells the story of Peter, a lively and lovable young chap who refuses to grow up; instead, he chooses to live in Neverland, where he is the leader of the lost boys. He frequently fights with the infamous Captain Hook and his band of blood curdling Pirates, and his best friend is Tinkerbell, a fairy. The story starts, however, in London, where the Darling children are getting ready to turn in for the night. Suddenly, a light appears at a window….. Peter Pan is a family show, intended for young children and young- at- heart adults who will join in the story from their seats. It is part musical and part pantomime, and will engage all the audience through song, dance and great storytelling. The time- honoured story of Peter Pan, written by J.M Barrie in 1902, has been rewritten, expanded and adapted several times, and has appeared as a children’s book, a film, a television series, a musical, and various stage plays.
ECHO's construction crew ... bringing the magical world of Peter Pan to the stage.
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The ECHO Theatre production is an adaptation of Piers Chater Robinson’s English Musical Peter Pan and includes most of the music and lyrics of Robinson’s creation.
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However, local writer and Director Julian Packer has made a significant change to Robinson’s work, opting to take out the stereotyped and insensitive portrayal of Indians, and replace them with ‘lost girls’, who are lost to society until children of their gender are allowed to reach their full potential. This ECHO production involves a cast of about 40 actors, half of whom are children, and a large behind the scenes production crew which is handling the many technical aspects of the production. Bearing much of the responsibility is Ashlee Sales, who is not only the Musical Director but is playing the title role of Peter. Theatre goers will remember Ashlee from the pantomime, Dick Whittington, which was ECHO Theatre’s Christmas offering two years ago. Ashlee is supported onstage by Daniel Sailland , a newcomer to ECHO Theatre, (who plays Captain Hook), Megan Handley, playing Wendy, Lina Janeski (Michael) and James Miguel (John). The visual dimension of Peter Pan is in the care of Sarah David, who has designed the set and has had a large hand in all aspects of the production; Tricia Browne is looking after props and Helen Hill-Tout is in charge of costumes. Overall Producer is Judi Andrews. ~ The box office is open from November 27th onward. For tickets contact the Box Office (250-752-3522) or e-mail info@echoplayers. ca. To order tickets online or for more information visit our website at www. echoplayers.ca.
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LIGHTHOUSE COMMUNITY CENTRE 240 LIONS WAY IN QUALICUM BAY
SATURDAY, DEC 8 2018 FROM 10:00-4:00PM
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DISCOVER YOUR ROOTS ... • Basic records research and online look-ups to discover: where your ancestors lived, what they did for a living, where they travelled during their lifetime, why they were mentioned in local newspapers, and what military conflicts they may have been part of.
GENEALOGY CLASSES COMING IN SPRING 2019
• Family Tree creation on Ancestry.com. Learn best practices and standards to create, grow and maintain an accurate family tree. • You have your DNA analysis ... so now what? Discover living relatives and learn how to grow your tree using their family stories and research. • Are you ready to write your family history but you're not sure how to get started? Let's talk ... then we'll create a plan to get those first few sentences on paper and your family legacy started. • Photo retouching and restoration. Rumpled and creased photos can be brought back to life, enlarged, and printed.
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LET'S GET STARTED ... CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION
LINDA TENNEY 250-757-9914 • tenney@eyesonbc.com
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drowned! There are only nine of us here.” Each person counted the nine others and came to the same conclusion. They were all crying when a villager walked up, listened to their story, counted from one to ten, and explained, “Calm down. No one has been lost. Count with me: 1,2,3…9 and now you must turn your finger towards yourself… 10.” “You have to do the turning….” Once we “do the turning” our attitude towards the Mystery is reactivated. The world is not just “out there.” What is it that is not “out there?” Is it worthy of my attention? Who is the observer of “out there?” What is the Source of “out there”?
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These are questions we cannot answer. Religions were born since antiquity from humans searching for answers to these questions. Religion serves a very important function, and no, it is not for the weak. It is for those who have hit bottom, by accident or intention, and end up face to face with the deepest questions and the Presence which doesn’t go away. Religion at its best gives a structure to explore the depths where words and intellect fail us. Why am I here? Who is the “I” observing this? Where does life and breath come from? From what does it arise? How can I honor that? Speak to it? Be in relation to it? That is the naked basis of religion.
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The dark days of the Holy Season encourage us to dive deep. If we can wake up intentionally, we may be able turn this ship around, without losing dog, loved ones, home, land or planet. The final message of all speakers was this: GO OUT AND DO SOMETHING bold and practical to save the earth. Look beyond the things that separate us. Abandon the meaningless goals that distract us. Take action. We have more help than we know, and we have each other. Change is not an option. It is the only option. Happy Holy-days to everyone! ~
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continued from page 15 I believe this could be a fun way to start to shift the fear energy that is surrounding us, and instead start to enjoy and feel comfortable around all the colourful and diverse cultures that exist. I have been so fortunate with my life experiences. I am bits and pieces of different cultures absorbing what appeals to me. My fashion sense is “bits of this and bits of that”, my food tastes are “bits of that and bits of this”, and my music collection is from “here, there and everywhere”. I have friends and acquaintances scattered all over the world, and I am comfortable being around people from different cultures even though I don’t speak their language. As cultural tourism stands today, hosts entertain with dance or acrobatics. Visitors come away believing they have witnessed something authentic (it’s become a commodity but it’s not authentic). The entertainers are generally left knowing nothing about their audience. Coming from Africa, a place I’ve never been able to walk away from, I always wondered if there was some way I could work with her and help her find a healthy way forward. Getting into the Tourism industry seemed a good option. I’ve been a travel consultant and I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Management; neither one, so far, has brought me any closer to Africa! Weaving Cultural Trails is my way of not wasting all that I have learned, and to try and do some good by bringing societies together through understanding and appreciation of our diversities. “The greater the diversity, the greater the perfection” (Thomas Berry). Can you image creating cultural bridges on foundations of acceptance, respect, trust and equality”?
Get your holiday jingle on!
UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL (Aesop) If you’re interested in learning more or joining the conversation on cultural issues you’re welcome to leave comments on my website https://fransjournal.com, or you can find me on Facebook at WeavingCultural-Trails.
Art Classes with
30-50% OFF ALL NEW CLOTHES STYLES WITH PERSONALITY!
Consignment & New
Carla Flegel
1080 Resort Drive in Parksville
250-586-4338
LEVEL 2 ART CLASS Saturdays: Feb 16 to Mar 30, 2019. 9:30am to 12:30pm. (No class on March 16th)
dressforles.ca
If you have “some” experience or have taken the Level 1 class ... we will use the basic skills you've learned and apply them to more complex projects. This is still a BASIC water colour class and a SKILL building class. You will need artist grade paints and paper. To secure your spot in the upcoming class, Call TOSH 250-752-6133 or drop in to register. Open: daily 10-4pm. Classes: $135 TOSH Members. $145 Non-members. Call today! Space is limited. D E C E M B E R
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BOOKS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY GIFT-GIVING
LOCAL AUTHORS OFFER UP CREATIVE READING FOR THE SEASON AND BEYOND
ADVENTURES IN MYSTERIA
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ntroducing Keenan Bevan and his premier novel "Adventures in Mysteria". Filled with the whimsical stories Keenan spun for his two brothers to help them past their fear of the dark, Adventures in Mysteria takes you on a journey into a wondrous land where anything can happen ... and does. "Mysteria is a land like no other with places and creatures thought to exist only in myth and legend. It is a land of stories untold and wonders unseen. Until now." Adventures in Mysteria is the perfect stocking-stuffer this season for children ages 7-12.
$20 - available directly from Keenan. Look for him at the Qualicum Beach Farmers' Market on December 22nd, connect with him by email at AdvMysteria@outlook.com, or visit his website at https:// sites.google.com/view/adventuresin-mysteria/adventures-in-mysteria Of special note ... the funds raised from the sale of Adventures in Mysteria will be used to offset the cost of Keenan's Vancouver Island University tuition. ~
FROM THE MIST: A LIFE RESTORED BY NATURE
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ost of us enjoy the beauty of our natural surrounding here on Vancouver Island. And many of us relish the many opportunities to hike, camp, boat and fish so close to home. For local author Patrick Herzog of Qualicum Beach, nature means more than amazing scenery and outdoor recreation – it is a lifesaver. From cancer.
The fine paintings of the renowned artist Robert Bateman are woven throughout the book to highlight the wildlife encounters experienced by Herzog before and after his journey with cancer,
Patrick's healing journey began with a painting. A Siberian tiger outside a gallery in a crowded mall captured Herzog’s attention: “Time vanished. My mind was clear and sharp. And my love and passion for nature were rekindled as I entered the scene alongside the tiger.” Wildlife art continued to repair his mind, and eventually Herzog regained his strength to once again conduct fieldwork. 2 0
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Patrick Herzog and provide a valuable insight into the healing power of nature. ~ From the Mist is available at Mulberry Bush Books in Qualicum Beach.
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Lighthouse Country & beyond LIGHTHOUSE COMMUNITY CENTRE (LCC) 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay.
is a free program suitable for families with children 6 years and younger. View all BLT programs online at www.oblt.ca
LIONS RECREATION HALL (LRH) 280 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay.
FOR MORE ACTIVITIES AT THE LCC, VISIT WWW.COMMUNITYHALL.CA SECOND SUNDAY MARKET at the Lighthouse Community Centre in Qualicum Bay – Sun. Oct 14th - 8am-noon, Pancake Breakfast - $6 or $8. Enjoy live music, breakfast, and shopping for a treasure! BOW HORNE BAY COMMUNITY CLUB Join us in the Nordin Room at the Lighthouse Community Ctr the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7pm. Welcome new members to keep our yearly events ongoing. Call Joanne Ferreiro 250-228-4231 or email us at bowhornebayclub@gmail.com ADULT BADMINTON. Mondays 7pm. ADULT PICKLEBALL. Thursdays 3:30pm. Lighthouse Community Centre in Qualicum Bay. Drop-in fee $4, equipment provided, beginners welcome, 15 years +. Info ph. 250-757-8307. email: steelehunt@shaw.ca
LET'S FLOOR CURL! A great sport for fun, friendship and game competition. We play Mondays and Fridays, 1-3pm in the Lions Rec Hall in lovely Qualicum Bay. Curling rocks are supplied. Floor curling is affordable, easy to play, great for all ages and capabilities. Our Club is 55+ BC Games eligible. Worth a try! FMI call Fred or Lorraine at 250-752-0216. LIGHTHOUSE COUNTRY SCRAPBOOKERS Meet 3rd Saturday monthly at the Lions' Rec Hall, 9:30am-4:30pm. $10. Door prizes. FMI Jorgie 250-757-8358 or Shirley 250-7578384. QUALICUM BAY LIONS CLUB – Meet at 7pm, every second and fourth Tuesday in the Lions Den at the Lions’ Rec Hall.
BOWSER / PARKSVILLE QUALICUM / NANAIMO / GULF ISLANDS DANCES OF UNIVERSAL PEACE – Please join us at the Dances of Universal Peace Winter Solstice Celebration at Errington Hall, December 22, 6pm. Contact Joanne with questions at joanne@glasswing.com. Open to the whole community – to every one of any age, tradition, background and belief. The Dances were founded in the late 1960's in San Francisco with the purpose of promoting world peace. Everything is fully taught each time. It’s comfortable, joyful, fun, and deep. Your donation of $5-10 is GREATLY appreciated.
LIGHTHOUSE SENIORS – Branch 152 – meet at 11:30am in the Seniors Room at the Lighthouse Community Centre on the first Monday of every month. For more information, please call Joan at 250-7579536. TAOIST™ TAI CHI - Mondays 10:00-noon at the Lighthouse Community Centre in Qualicum Bay. Contact: 250-240-3387 or parksville@taoist.org LIGHTHOUSE SPINNERS – Bring your Spinning Wheels and fibre and meet the Lighthouse Spinners at the LCC, Tuesdays at 10:30am. FMI Call 778-424-1001.
DENMAN ISLAND CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR - Sat & Sun, December 1 & 2, 2018 over 80 artisans | two halls packed to the brim with 30+ years of craft tradition and this year's Christmas presents | holiday shopping that leaves you inspired. Visit denmancraftfair.wordpress.com
CARPET BOWLING – 12:45 to 3pm at the LCC. FMI Call Layne (250) 757-8217. AA LIGHTKEEPERS – Fridays at 7pm at the LCC.
Saturday Breakfast Club - Enjoy a free parent and tot session and Mother Goose circle time at Munchkinland, Family Place, 494 Bay Avenue, Parksville. Join us for songs, stories and breakfast. Saturdays, Dec 1, 8, 15, and 22, 9:30 to 11:30 am. This
BRIDGE – Seniors Room, 1-4pm Fridays at the LCC. FMI Sheila Steele 250-757-8307.
Canvas Art for Kids 7-11yrs - Jenny Hughes will guide you through how to paint a fantastic yet surprisingly simple acrylic painting. No experience necessary. All supplies are provided. View painting project online one month prior to class. Thursday, December 6th from 4 to 5:30 pm at Oceanside Art Studio, 124 Harlech Rd. Qualicum Beach. Cost is $20. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks at 250-2483252 to pre-register. View recreation programs online at rdn.bc.ca/recreation. Winter Wonderland On Ice - December 15–31. It is a holiday tradition to take part in this magical skating event at Oceanside Place Arena. Special lighting and décor makes you feel as though you are skating on an outdoor pond at night. Even if you do not skate, come by and view the lights from the deck. Wheel chairs and strollers are welcome. Opening Reception: Works of HeART. Friday, Dec 7, 2018 from 6-8pm. 78 Wharf St Gallery, Nanaimo. Meet the artists, enjoy theatrical performance, multicultural music, food and refreshments, and learn more about the Works of HeART Project.. Coombs Country Christmas Market. December 15 and 16, 10am-3pm each day. at the Coombs Rodeo Grounds featuring over 30 local vendors selling a wide variety of merchandise and services. We are also featuring delicious homemade food from the Pie Factory. All proceeds support the Workability Program in Oceanside. FMI work-ability.ca/coombs-country-christmasmarket Community Lunch, The Soupy Cafe, December 20th. Doors open at 10:30, lunch at 12 noon. Lighthouse Community Centre, 240 Lions Way in Qualicum Bay. Lunch is by donation - pay what you can, if you can. Join your neighbours and friends to enjoy a delicious holiday dinner with all the trimmings! 'tis the season!
Community Calendar listings are reserved for non-profit organizations, societies, clubs and associations operating within the guidelines of the Society Act of BC, and to charities registered with Canada Revenue Agency. Listings are first-come, first-served, space permitting, and placement is not guaranteed. See more events at www.eyesonbc.com D E C E M B E R
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Sage Simply Accounting & QuickBooks
Massage
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Hearing Clinic
Septic Installation
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Plumbing
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Plumbing Gas Heating
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DEC 2018
FIRST 25 WORDS $10+GST classified@eyesonbc.com
THE CAT’S MEOW
Our tide table measurements are taken from the Hornby Island substation. For other tides, visit http://www.tides.gc.ca/eng on the Internet. Printed courtesy Canadian Hydrographic Service. Add 1 hour to tide times for Daylight Savings
LOCAL TIDE
“In Your Home” Pet Sitting Services
Specializing in spoiling your furbabies! Loving & Reliable care of your dogs and cats while you are away. Fully
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*Free nail clipping during visits! www.thecatsmeowcatsitting.com
Amanda
(250) 457-0998
SERVICES THE FIX-IT SHOP –
Repairs to all makes and models of lawnmowers and ride-on lawn tractors, including John Deere. Pick-up and delivery available. Used equipment for sale. Call (250) 702-2191 or email fixitshop009@gmail.com
WILDWOOD COMMUNITY CHURCH
113 McColl Road, Bowser
Sunday Morning Worship · 10:30am 757-8136
WHAT’S ON? — DEC 2018
250-757-9222 • website: rcl211.org • email: rcl211@shaw.ca Hall Rentals 250-757-9222 • Tue and Fri 9am - 12 noon Saturday Dec. 1st Sunday Dec 2nd Sunday Dec. 16th Tuesday Dec. 25th Christmas Monday Dec. 31st Tuesday Jan. 1st MIXED POOL EUCHRE LADIES POOL CRIBBAGE MEN’S POOL TEXAS HOLD’EM DARTS
Giant Meat Draw and L.A. Supper Quadrathon Registration 11:30am $10.00 per person Breakfast with Santa 8:30am Legion General meeting @ 7:00pm (No Meeting) Branch Closed Dec. 25th and 26th New Year’s Dance – Doors open at 7pm New Year’s Day Levée at 1pm Tuesday............................................................... 5:00pm Tuesday............................................................... 6:30pm Wednesday......................................................... 4:00pm Wednesday......................................................... 6:30pm Thursday............................................................. 6:00pm Thursday............................................................. 7:00pm Friday.................................................................. 5:00pm
Meat Draws - Every Friday at 5pm & Saturday at 4:30pm
** MEMBERS, GUESTS & PROSPECTIVE MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME ** Facebook: Events-at-the-Bowser-Legion-br211-368799556487