EyesOnBC Magazine December 2017 by EyesOnBC Publishing

DECEMBER 2017 vol 13 issue 12

Serving Vancouver Island & the Gulf Islands

Milner Gardens: A Beautiful Spot in History •

John Beaton’s: “Laying Ghosts to Rest” •

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December on Planet Earth. When is Enough, Enough? •

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MAGAZINE vol 13 No 12

December 2017 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: Mon - Thu 10-4 Our Contributors this month: Georgia Nicols, Joanne Sales, Michael Addiscott, Linda Tenney Bill Veenhof, John Beaton, Dawn Hunter Clark, Mary Ann Moore On the Internet www.eyesonbc.com & www.facebook.com/eyesonbc For Advertising Options Call 250-757-9914 to inquire or visit www.eyesonbc.com/advertise to request ad rates. VISA & MasterCard accepted Printed on Vancouver Island, BC

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Once a month on the Second Sunday of every month from 8am ‘til noon, it’s been a long-standing Qualicum Bay tradition to check out the Market and have breakfast with neighbours and community!

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THE FEATURES 5 Milner Gardens: A beautiful spot in history 10 December on Planet Earth. When is enough, enough?

THE ARTS / OUTDOORS 12 14 18 19

Shhh! It's a Secret Tide Table John Beaton’s “Laying Ghosts to Rest” Euclid's Orchard & Other Essays - a book review

COMMUNITY LIVING 16 From the Desk of the RDN Director, Area H - Bill Veenhof

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THE REGULARS 8 15 21 22

In the Stars: Georgia Nicols Horoscope Classifieds Community Calendar At Your Service - Local Services & Trades

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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In our new location since June 1st, 2017

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THE MAGICAL GARDENS IN THE WOODS MILNER GARDENS

Milner Gardens: A Beautiful Spot in History by Dawn Hunter Clark

idden in an old growth forest against the Strait of Georgia is a place of peaceful beauty with a rich history.

He purchased the property as a summer home, a retreat from his busy business life in Alberta. Ray and his wife Rina began work on the garden immediately. They fell in love with the garden and woodlands and were passionate about enhancing this magical place.

In 1929, General Noel Money had a home built by the ocean for his sister and ailing mother. After two years, the Ceylonese inspired retreat was complete. It featured over 6500 square feet of living space with grand views of the water. After only a few years, the home was abandoned, boarded up and left alone until it was purchased by Horatio “Ray” Milner and his wife Rina in 1937.

On one of many travels, the couple had an encounter that would eventually impact Ray’s life in a way he did not know then. On a train in Boston, the Milner’s befriended another couple, Veronica and Desmond Fitzgerald. The two couples would visit each other and enjoy dinners together. Eventually, the Milner’s came back to Canada and the Fitzgerald’s returned home to Ireland.

Ray Milner was born in Sackville, New Brunswick in 1889. A focused fella, he graduated from Kings College at the age of 20 and went on to gain a law degree from Dalhousie University in 1911. He served in WWII, and made Kings Counsel.

Sadly, in 1952, Rina passed away. Around the same time, Veronica’s husband Desmond passed away from TB. Veronica returned to her home in London.

He built a successful career in law and politics in Alberta and for a short time was the head of the Conservative Party. A kind, gentle man who respected everyone and was well-liked.

In 1954, Ray took a trip to London to see Veronica. As kindred spirits they found comfort in each other. They married

six weeks later. Soon after they wed, Ray brought Veronica back with him to Canada. With life as busy as it was in Alberta, coming to the island each summer was special. Veronica named the estate “Long Distance” as it was so far from England. She immersed herself in the Oceanside home and made it her life’s mission to create one of the most beautiful private gardens in Canada with the main focus on many varieties of Rhododendrons. From the mid 1950's to the late 1960's the house and property went through many renovations. Additions to the property during that time included a pool, a pool house, a tennis court and a cottage. The carriage house was also converted into an art studio for Veronica. In 1972, Ray finally retired and the Milners moved to the Oceanside retreat full time. Just a few years later, Ray passed away in 1975 at the age of 86. CONTINUED ON PG 23

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Predictions - December 2017 Aries (March 21-April 19) You have much to look forward to this month because the Sun will be in your fellow Fire sign. (The three Fire signs are: Aries, Leo and Sagittarius.) This supportive relationship occurs twice a year and gives increased balance and equilibrium to your life. It means you will encounter fewer obstacles; and your energy level will be high. You will find it easier to do what you want. It’s an excellent time to take a vacation! Taurus (April 20-May 20) This is an intense month! You have a greater focus on shared property, taxes, inheritances, debt, insurance issues and anything you own jointly with others. You are the financial wizard of the zodiac. You don’t like financial loose ends. During this same four-week window – you will be more reflective and willing to explore psychological self inquiry. (Who am I really? Will Google know?) Sex will be passionate as well!

healthier and get more exercise. All very admirable!

Gemini (May 21-June 20) This month the Sun will be in Sagittarius and Sagittarius is 180° opposite from Gemini. (This is why these two signs often get married.) (It’s also why they often get divorced.) This means that symbolically speaking, the Sun will now be as far away from your sign as it gets all year, which means you will have to go more than halfway – consciously – to connect with others. Also, because the Sun is your source of energy, you will be more tired than usual. Go to bed.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Life will be easier this month! Fewer obstacles will present themselves; and things will flow in your favour. You will play more! Vacations, sports events, the theatre, movies and social diversions and parties will appeal! (You like these things any day of the week but this month, you will really want to gratify your desires and urges!) Take a vacation if you can. Flirt a little! Romance and love affairs will flourish with style. Oh yeah, you’re no Queen of Denial!

Cancer (June 21-July 22) This month, you have a strong desire to get better organized! You will make lists and chide yourself about procrastinating. You will strive to make your efforts count so that you can get the most bang for your buck. Since you’re setting higher standards for yourself, obviously, by extension, you will take a look at your health as well. You might resolve to go on a diet, or eat

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) This month is about home, family and your private life. Many of you will want to cocoon at home more than usual. You want to hide and be comfy in familiar surroundings. The weather’s getting cold. Throw another log on the fire. Try some tumeric and ginger tea. (I love it.) Perhaps a Pinot Noir with some

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pate and red pepper jelly? Yes, relax at home! You might also be involved with a parent or a family member more than usual. Quite likely, you will attend to home repairs and have family discussions because your ruler Mercury is in the picture as well. Yada yada yada.

are friendships. (I find that curious – not a word about the kind of car one drives.) Mind you, she is a double Aries with Taurus Rising. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Lucky you! You host the Sun this month! This happens once every year and when it occurs, this boosts your energy and confidence! Not only that, the Sun attracts favourable situations and important people to you. (Yeah! You’re Reds at centre ice!) Mercury in your sign makes you talkative and eager to explore ideas with others. This is right up your alley because you are the philosopher of the zodiac. Use this blessing to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year because you’re on fire!

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Fasten your seatbelts because this is a fast-paced, energetic month! The rhythm of your days will accelerate with a jam-packed with short trips, conversations with others, errands, shopping, time spent with siblings and relatives plus reading, writing and studying. You’ll be the frantic white rabbit in Alice in Wonderland. Make a list every day. In the evening, go over that list and refine it for tomorrow. If you have focus, you can handle this busy pace. After all, you are an Air sign. You actually love talking to everyone!

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) This is a low-key month. Work alone or behind the scenes. (You’re not being antisocial.) You’re just going with the flow. Use this time wisely by thinking ahead and defining goals – with deadlines –for the coming year. Believe your goal is doable. Visualize what you want. Write down your goals and what their purpose is in your life. Tape your list of goals up where you can see them so that you will stay focused. Furthermore, you sense that you are about to embark on a whole new path.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) “Show me the money!” This month you will focus on earnings, money, cash flow, possessions and assets. At a subtle level, you will think about your self-image because that is also something that you own. And at an even more subtle level, you will think about what really, really, really matters in life. I recently read an article about Alie McGraw; and she said what really matters in life

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Friendships and relationships with groups are your lifeblood. After all, Aquarius is the energy in the world that gathers likeminded individuals to bond together to fight to make this world a better place. This notion will resonate with you this month because you are popular and more involved with clubs, groups and associations. You will present ideas as well as listen to others. You will be goal oriented and will hangout with younger people, who stimulate you with their enthusiasm for the future! Ain’t life grand? Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Once a year, the Sun slowly crosses the top of your chart. That time has arrived. Symbolically, this means that you are in a flattering spotlight, which makes everyone notice you. In particular, it makes bosses, parents and VIPs see you in flattering way! (You don’t even have to do anything special to look fabuous.) Obviously, this is the best time of the year for you to advance your agenda! Go after what you want. Meanwhile, higher education and a chance to learn anything new plus travel for pleasure still beckon! ~

Phone: 250-757-8944 Fax: 250-757-8654

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Those who do have sharing experience make assessments very quickly: what is available, how many of us are there, what are the needs of others, what are the consequences of my taking? Lastly what do I need? Although I love fish, I am among many people who never or seldom eat it – because we have taken too much from

DECEMBER ON PLANET EARTH. WHEN IS ENOUGH, ENOUGH? by Joanne Sales

e are prisoners of our culture until we are aware of how our culture works, and works us. We do have choices. Especially in times of extreme change, like this. Especially in such emotionally charged times as December on Planet Earth. The word “holiday” has two roots: holyday and a day of recreation. We practice both. I will use the word Christmas, with full recognition that it is not the only holiday. Please give me some leeway with limited words on this old fashioned printed page.

t a recent Death Café in Parksville”, an elderly woman told us that she had made the announcement a few years before: “I am never doing Christmas again.” I found that particularly interesting because the protagonist in the novel I was reading at that moment said the same thing when her twins left for college. What does it mean in our society to “do Christmas” and why would one not want to do it? A traditional practice can become like a shrunken sweater – it just doesn’t always fit anymore. For many, the holiday season is full of expectations, involving shopping, presents, decorations, a tree, dinner for many, holiday cookies, special outfits, special events, alcohol, more parties, more cookies, a clean house, and now meaningless songs about snow and reindeer in the midst of endless traffic jams. At the other extreme, the holidays can be a time of loneliness with no one or nothing to do. Does it have to be so exhausting? How we deal with December depends very much on our expectations, and 1 0

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how we handle “Too Much and Too Little.” Too Much & Too Little is not a new problem. An ancient Hindu text, the Chandi Path, is a book so old that it was spoken before written language. It is a story of the battle of good and evil. Among the evil forces are the thoughts “Too much and Too Little.” The grasping for too much, and the heart breaking cry of too little, can indeed lead us where we would not go. Our world is suffering severely from too much and too little. We could say that this injustice and imbalance are causing much of the turmoil and wars of today. A fraction of the 1% own almost everything, and many are doing everything in their power to grab the rest. Meanwhile, far too many have way too little. While having too much doesn’t really make people happy, having too little can create real suffering. Not knowing what is too much and what is too little seems to be one of the most important human challenges – especially today. What is enough? Most of us intuitively know how much food to take from the common pot at a family or community meal. We look around and make quick judgments about how to share it. But when serving meals to the many young people who help at our farm, I have begun the practice of filling their plates at meals, because they don’t have the experience of knowing how much to take. It’s not cool to take half the tomato slices and pick out the best pieces of broccoli and tofu.

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the oceans and it needs time to recover. What is too much? Gandhi said, “The earth has enough for everyone’s need but not enough for everyone’s greed.” Five of the Judeo-Christian “7 Deadly Sins”* are based on the dangers of too much: greed, envy, pride, gluttony, lust. Sloth is giving too little. Hatred and anger are a shadow over all, and when it arises, it is usually because someone or something is not fulfilling our expectations. Often rightly so!

read about a man who every morning tells himself something like this. “Today I will meet with rejection, disappointment, isolation, insults, meanness, obstacles.” (What’s wrong with that guy? Didn’t he ever hear about positive thinking? How dismal!) But he explained that the result for him was that when he met with good news or acceptance, success or friendship, he was filled with gratitude. He met every act of love and kindness with a big open heart – not with expectations. He felt that living without expectations actually made him happier! Would we be happier if we set the holidays free of expectations?

loved Christmas as a child and young adult. But those happy Christmas years set me up for a lonely walk on Sligo Creek in my late 20's. I missed what used to be (a dangerous state of mind!) I missed carrying candles down the dark aisles under the stone arches of the old grey stone church. Missed looking out the window of our old farmhouse,

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across the field to the woods, thinking that if I could stay awake I really would see Santa and his sleigh. Missed lying under the Christmas tree and staring straight up at the light reflecting on the plastic stars. There was a smaller load of presents but mystery in abundance. Again, in my early 20s, I experienced a series of very high, devotional Christmases with a powerful, intimate group (that then dissolved.) One year, we wandered fearlessly through the ghetto of Washington, D.C. singing Christmas carols. Children in their underwear ran out onto their porches in the frigid cold to hear us sing. I felt great joy when one of the “strays” came to our Christmas Eve service in the basement of an old brick row house. I was even more exhilarated when I realized that he had stolen my purse. “I get a brand new identity!” I exclaimed. “This is great!” A couple of years later, when the group fell apart, I really did get a new identity! And it didn’t appear to be as much fun. One Christmas Eve, I found myself wandering alone on the banks of Sligo Creek, trying to figure out how to recreate Christmas. What had happened? Did I do something wrong? No, I don’t think I did or you did. The holidays have been pushed to the point of ridiculous. We need to reclaim our freedom of choice.

IFTS are a real problem for many. Giving is a high state. Shopping is not a high state. Gifts are fun, but shouldn’t cause pain. 70% of Americans would welcome less emphasis on gift giving. 60% received unwanted gifts during the holidays, and 52% of those gave those gifts away to others. Most of us already have too much. One study tells us that close to half of holiday gifts end up in the landfill by year’s end – along with yearly disposal of 30 million Christmas trees, 4 million tons of wrapping paper and bags, 38,000 miles of ribbon, 2.65 billion Christmas cards, packaging, wasted food, batteries, and party debris. Waste going to the landfill increases 25% between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

On Christmas morning, we make waffles with the 60 year old waffle iron that my mother bought in the 1950's. It still works just fine. Manufacturers know how to make things to last, but they don’t. A new appliance now will last a few years, and then go to the landfill. They have us trapped, on a tiny planet. They could do better. We could do better. Let’s be more creative than those big corporations want us to be.

he definition of gift is something given voluntarily with no expectation of return. Something that didn’t cost us - bestowed without being earned. But in reality, gifts are messier than that. It is a really special person who can give a gift without expecting something in return. (If we really want to be happy, we would be that really special person!) A holy woman from India was always being given gifts, and she would immediately give it away to someone else. Why does that bother us? What did we expect? Here is how some people have dealt with the problems of gift giving. A friend on her 50th birthday said she would only accept one gift – beef jerky. What a kind gift she gave to her friends! My favorite birthday gift in the 80s was a reverse gift - I bought Nerf soccer and footballs for the Viet Namese refugee children and watched them play. Drawing names – with spending limits – is the most common. One year, my sister’s family set limits at $10; the next year, you could only buy gifts at a 2nd hand store. Many give a gift of experience: to take someone for a hike, to a play or movie or out to dinner. Donations can go to countless worthy organizations in a loved one’s name. Last year, I gave a gift certificate to Plan Canada to my grandchildren, and they got to figure out whether to give goats to families in Africa or build a well, or provide seeds, baby chicks, bees or books.

Give people what they need. Last year I got a ladder. My friend once got a trailer full of horse pooh. One woman let everyone know that she refused to accept a gift she couldn’t eat. We also resort to edibles. Because we love to have lots of presents under the tree, when my children were young, we started wrapping up boxes of usually forbidden cereal wrapped festively in newspaper. We still give chocolate bars, honey, and artichoke hearts. We need to wrestle the holi-day season free again. To swap the feeling of “I have to” to the joy of “I want to.” The form of that rebuilt holy-day may be something new. The ideal of giving is in its rightful place. It belongs in December! But we can’t hog or hoard happiness. “I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver,” Maya Angelou.

umans like to get high, and I believe it is because we are High. Much higher than we pretend to be, or that our culture and society encourages us to be. What is it we long for at Christmas and the holidays? Our ancestors way back just wanted the Light to return. The days were so short, and food would be getting scarce. They prayed that the Sun would return – and it did. The Sun – the Son – the Light. I think it’s fair to say that we’re in love with Light… regardless of our heritage or traditions. We long for that high of light, love, mystery and re-connection. May it be yours this holiday season! May it be ours. Peace on earth to all. That would be the greatest gift, wouldn’t it? Now how do we get there? See what you can find out this December, and let me know. * Death Café meets the first Sunday of some months in at St. Edmunds Church in Parksville. Email Joanne@glasswing.com. www.deathcafe.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.

an you keep a secret? There's a magical micro-kingdom of cute creatures and intriguing characters sandwiched between two of Qualicum Beach's better known thoroughfares. What started off as a small network of rough game trails evolved a decade ago into part of the mountain bike network used by Qualicum Beach Middle School's Bike Club and from there into a quaint woodland theme park, adopted by some of the local residents and other artistic, enthusiastic contributors. What we now know as Laburnum Road, which connects Rupert Road with Highway 19 near to the Little Qualicum River, was once a muddy trail, known to its users as Black Bog (yep, there's a clue about its nature in the name), which led from the Middle School on Claymore Road, uphill to the labyrinthine network hacked into the woodland, hydro cut and tree farms between there and Whiskey Creek. The development of Laburnum Road and Rupert Road, West of Arbutus Street, made access to the trails on the Arbutus side less attractive for school groups and subsequently these trails have taken on a completely different character. The trails are on Town of Qualicum Beach land but do not form part of the official trail system. While the town's woodchip trails are excellent in their own right, the advantage of these trails being excluded is that they retain a far more natural feel, making them fun for walking, running or, if done at a leisurely pace, cycling. As with many of the area's trails their layout has been chosen to avoid the most waterlogged areas, particularly relevant here as the network straddles Grandon Creek.

Shhhh! It's a Secret! by Michael Addiscott, Outsider Adventures Where marshy sections, standing or running water and muddy slopes would provide obstacles duck boards, drainage channels or bridges (some rather rickety) make passage much more pleasant. In common with most trail networks, this one continues to develop. Currently there are around 2.5km of trails in this little wedge of woodland, but becoming acquainted with them all requires covering the same trails more than once, meaning that a complete discovery session will total somewhere between 3 and 4 km. The beauty of these trails, however, is that if you take your time to explore them over a number of visits you will find them so much more rewarding. A huge part of the reason for this is that the trails have become a gallery for dozens of pieces of homemade artwork, scarecrow-like life-size figures and painted or carved messages encouraging love of nature, community

spirit and other positive, uplifting subjects. The compact nature of the trails and the entertaining ornaments scattered with great regularity around the area make this the perfect destination for a walk with children, or in the company of visitors with whom you'd like to share our area's appreciation of community and nature. Naturally, respecting the work of both nature and community is important, so dog owners and visitors in general need to come with the attitude that they will take memories away, perhaps in the form of photos, and leave nothing but the odd footprint, perhaps a painted rock or seashell and a few appreciative words in the comment book. The trails themselves take the form of a perimeter of around 1.5km, with a number of spurs exiting at Arbutus Road and Rupert Road, and with continued on page 15

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It's soft, cute and cuddly. So is the sweater! ;-) Handmade soaps and Cashmere Sweaters Gift Certificates Available. Join us on Enjoy the Holidays with friends and Family Facebook Socialize with us online! 1080 Resort Drive Parksville · 250-586-4338 dressforles.ca · Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 5pm · Closed Sunday & Monday

"Visions of sugar plums will dance in their heads.” So sweet is this holiday sleepwear. Cloud soft cotton nightgown by April Cornell and cozy velour robe by Patricia. From grannies to glamour girls, there’s something perfect for everyone on your list. With the largest selection of sleepwear on the Island, we help you make all their Christmas dreams come true. Join us on 210 W. Second Ave, Qualicum Beach · 250.738.0638 Facebook www.facebook.com/BrownEyedSusansQB

Christmas carols and a crackling fire. This cozy outfit of smashing separates conjures up the best of holiday spirits and lingers on with warm memories. Tunic over turtle neck, belted with drama, dazzled with sparkle. all wrapped up in a flourish of fringe. Outfits to accessories, come gift shop for yourself, your family and your friends. It’s always fun and affordable at Arbutus Fashions. 147 West Second Avenue, Qualicum Beach · 250-738-9008

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LOCAL TIDE 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

continued from page several intersecting trails crossing the middle of the loop. Entering at Arbutus Street, close to Birch Avenue, you'll pass through a gateway which welcomes you to the forest. Take the right fork here, keep your pace slow and your eyes peeled through a full 360 degrees as the route's embellishments begin immediately. The number of subtly placed items is impressive enough that every visit, and every backward glance, seems to result in the discovery of yet another trinket. Cross the bridge with the painted, serpentine handrail and continue on your way. Soon you'll arrive at the Maple Grove, which overlooks Grandon Creek from the top of a reasonable sized gully. This area, complete with little bench, is particularly attractive during fall, when the wind waltzes maple leaves from the height of the treetops down into the creek. Look up before rejoining the trail and you'll see a carved tribute to one of the early contributors to the beauty and character of this area. As a guideline for navigation, I'd recommend sticking to this Western perimeter for now. There are two distinct trailheads which lead off to the right, and both should be avoided in order to stay within the network. The first dead-ends on private property, so is of no interest. The second is a useful link for accessing the Laburnum Trails. It crosses rougher woodland over the course of around a kilometre, until it emerges at the top of Laburnum Hill, so is an effective dead-end in the context of this network. Back on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maple Groveâ&#x20AC;? trail, stay on course until Rupert Road is in sight. At this point a left turn takes you Eastwards along a trail which will re-cross Grandon Creek at a concrete culvert before diving back into the trees on the Eastern side of the area on a trail which brings you past the impressive stump of a 1,000 year old cedar, logged in 1920, straight back to Arbutus Street around 200 metres South-East of your start point. Once familiar with this outer loop, orientation is easy and discovery of the trails in the middle can begin. If in doubt, using a compass along the way will allow you to head back towards your entry point, and an area like this makes practising navigation a fun exercise in its own right. The Arbutus Trails area is a real gem and kudos must be given to all those who contribute to the magical ambiance. While every outing here feels like a treasure hunt, given the time of year, I can't help but think what a great place it would be for an Easter egg hunt, maybe with name-tags on the eggs to avoid confusion if the idea takes off! For a photo gallery from this and other trail features, visit www. outsideradventures.com and Outsider's Facebook page. Getting there- From the roundabout at Memorial and Rupert in Qualicum Beach, head West along Rupert Road. After approximately 1km, turn right onto Arbutus Street. Look for Chestnut Place on the right, and park (considerately, of course) near the wooden handrails you'll see on the left, just before the trees give way to houses. What to take- Always carry a whistle (I have one on my keys and attached to my pack.) Check weather forecast and choose appropriate clothing and footwear for your activity. Remember to bring any prescription medications, snacks, water and camera. If setting out in the evening bring a flashlight or headlamp. This is a perfect area to pack a picnic. It is a good idea to carry a personal 1st Aid kit and to let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. ~

FIRST 25 WORDS $10+GST TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD

Phone: 250-757-9914

Email: classified@eyesonbc.com

LIGHTHOUSE TRAILS GROUP - Needs your volunteer help! FMI Call: Val Weismiller: (250) 757-9667.

SERVICES OFFERED / NEEDED

WORKSHOPS / CLASSES

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

PIANO AND THEORY LESSONS.

EFT - EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUE WORKSHOPS - Learn how this effective technique can help you find your way to better emotional health. PLUS ... KOMBUCHA WORKSHOP - Make Your Own Kombucha. Contact Joanne for more information about both these workshops. joanne@glasswing. com. www.islandhealing.ca

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All levels. Your home or ours. Qualified teachers. Parksville/Qualicum and surrounding areas. Call John or Margaret (250-954-5895) Email: ledgerlines@shaw.ca

WORSHIP

WILDWOOD COMMUNITY CHURCH

Allergies? PFFT! Gone! Call for more information

250-937-0655

113 McColl Road, Bowser

Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 am 757-8136

WHAT’S ON? — DECEMBER 2017

250-757-9222 • website: rcl211.ca • email: rcl211@shaw.ca

Surgery • Medicine • X-Ray Dental Laboratory • Ultrasound Prescription Pet Foods Flea Products

Hall Rentals 250-757-9222 • Tue and Fri 9am - 12 noon Sunday Dec. 10th.......... Breakfast with Santa @ 8:30 am Tuesday Dec 26th.......... Legion General meeting @ 7:00pm Cancelled Sunday Dec. 31st .......... New Year’s Eve Dance. Doors open at 7:30pm. Advance tickets available at the Legion. Monday Jan. 1st ........... New Year’s Day Levée at 1pm.

Weekdays 8am - 5pm

6030 W. Island Hwy. in Qualicum Bay

Doctor On Call 24 Hours

250-757-9911

House Calls Available

The Legion will be closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day MIXED POOL EUCHRE LADIES POOL CRIBBAGE MEN’S POOL TEXAS HOLD’EM DARTS

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 **

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FROM THE DESK OF THE DIRECTOR BILL VEENHOF

Regional Director, Area H billveenhof.com ph: 778-424-2810 bill.veenhof@shaw.ca

rlene and I would like to wish you all the very best in the holiday season and that you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. While things will hopefully slow down a bit during the holiday break, we continue to be very busy. See the following to get a sense of what is ongoing. Earlier in November the RDN held its Inaugural Board Meeting where I was acclaimed as Chairman of the Board for another year.

Emergency Management The RDN continues to focus on emergency management. For example, during the last rain event, the RDN opened its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). This was in response to flooding concerns and the potential for slides in a few areas. This is a good example of the RDN being pro-active rather than reactive to the potential for local emergencies. This response represented a good integration of the RDN and local Fire Departments and volunteers, (we deployed Area H Emergency Social Services to support an individual in French Creek). A few points on all of this: Winter is when we are most likely to see significant weather events, (rain, snow, slides). Summer brings the risk of fire and all year long we live with an earthquake hazard. Years ago, I attended a United Nations briefing where I was told that world-wide, 90% of disaster response takes place at the local neighbourhood level. All this suggests that this is a good time of the year to connect with your neighbours and talk about emergency response.

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Whilst Federal guidance states that you should be prepared to last 3 days without support, my best advice is that, rural residents should be able to manage for 14 days on their own. These two links provide good information on preparation for emergencies, http:// www.rdn.bc.ca/cms/wpattachments/ wpID141atID47.pdf and http:// www.rdn.bc.ca/cms/wpattachments/ wpID1274atID1388.pdf It is worth spending some time on the RDN web site reviewing evacuation procedures. These can be found at http://www.rdn.bc.ca/emergencyresponse. Key points are that when you are ordered to evacuate, do so. Be prepared. You may be directed to an emergency reception centre. We have two in Area H; the Legion and the Lighthouse Community Centre. Note that the centre you are directed to might not be in this area. The RDN pushes out emergency notifications by text and voice. If you want to receive them, sign up at: https:// rdnemergency.connectrocket.com/ You are reminded to call 911 for any life-threatening emergency and you can report non-life threatening events to the RDN at 778-762-3553. I am pleased and deeply appreciative of the efforts of our ESS volunteers. This is a program that was non-existent in the area two years ago. Through the strength and character of a few volunteers, this now a vibrant and highly functional program. So much so that six volunteers were deployed from this area to the mainland to support the response to the fires this past summer. I am told that the Province is looking at us as a model for success. http:// www.rdn.bc.ca/emergency-programvolunteers

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Spider Lake Internet The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) in partnership the Federal Government and TELUS is helping bring improved internet connectivity to the Spider Lake area in 2017. I am told that work has commenced in the Spider Lake area. Once complete, the area will enjoy some of the fastest internet within the RDN. I am appreciative of the federal Gas Tax Funds that we received to help bring this improved technology to the Spider Lake area. The collaborative relationship we have with TELUS on this initiative has been exceptional.

New RDN Web Page The RDN has redesigned is web presence and is worth a look. Noteworthy is that there is now a page that can be used to communicate directly on specific projects. Click on the “get involved link” of the web page or see: http://www. getinvolved.rdn.ca/

Coming Events and Hearings A Public Information Meeting will be held Tuesday, December 5, 2017 at 6:30 pm at the Lighthouse Community Hall at 240 Lions Way concerning the zoning amendment application affecting the property located at 575 Horne Lake Road in Electoral Area 'H', legally described as Lot 8, DD 51006N, District Lot 90, Newcastle District, Plan 1874, Except Part in Plan VIP63298 Public Hearing for the Area H OCP (Bylaw 1335.06) will be held on Dec 6, 2017, 7pm at the Lighthouse Community Hall, 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay, BC. This will be the last opportunity for the public to provide input into the OCP.

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Winter Wonderland on Ice

RDN Recreation and Parks December Events and Programs For more info about the following activities, call RDN, Recreation and Parks at 250-248-3252 or view recreation, swim and skate programs and schedules online at rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

Parksville Lion’s and Save-OnFoods Free Family Skate This popular skate session is Sundays, a great way to stay active as a family. Children must be accompanied by an adult, 19yrs+. Pond hockey is not available during this session. Oceanside Place Arena on Sundays, December 3, and 10 from 12:15-1:45 pm. Free Event.

Paint a Tote Bag 7-10 years - Show

Celebrate New Year’s Eve family style at Oceanside Place Arena on Sunday, December 31st from 5:30 to 8:00 pm. This year’s event will include skating on Winter Wonderland, playing pond hockey, craft making, selfie station, special guests and live music. End the evening with a balloon drop and countdown at 8:00 pm. Food will be available to purchase at the event. Admission and skate rentals are free courtesy of Tim Horton’s, Parksville. Tickets are required and are available December 11th at either Oceanside Place Arena or Ravensong Aquatic Centre.

Winter Wonderland on Ice Sponsored Skates Dec 16, Saturday from 1:00-3:00 pm Toy Drive and Free Everyone Welcome Skate, sponsored by Todd Sjogren, BMO Financial Group and Anthony MacAulay, Notary Public Corp.

Dec. 23, Saturday from 10:00 am-12:00 pm. Free Everyone Welcome Skate, Sponsored by Gord Johns, MP

Dad’s Night Out: Free Skate - Dads, bring the kids to Oceanside Place Arena and enjoy a free skate together on the pond Tuesday, December 5th from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. This free skate is sponsored by our partners at Building Learning Together.

Family Paint - Let's create art and

memories together. Family members will take part in painting their own canvas with the guidance of our experienced art instructor. No experience necessary. All supplies are included. View painting project online. Thursday, December 7th from 5:45 to 7:15 pm at Qualicum Commons. Cost is $30. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks at 250-248-3252 to pre-register.

Brrrrr ... Polar Bear Splash - The 28th Annual Polar Bear Splash is Monday, January 1, 2018, 12 noon at Parksville Beach. A great way to start the New Year, you are welcome to come as a participant, spectator or volunteer. Register onsite at 11:30 am. This is a free event. ~

See more events at

Dec 24, Sunday from 1:00-3:30 pm. Free Everyone Welcome Skate, sponsored by Tim Horton’s

WWW.EYESONBC.COM

Winter Wonderland on Ice Free Teen Skate 13-18yrs - Grab a friend

and head to Oceanside Place Arena to celebrate the holidays with a free skate at the magical Winter Wonderland on Tuesday, December 19th from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. Admission and skate rentals are free, courtesy of RDN Youth.

Holiday Swim - Come to Ravensong

Aquatic Centre for the annual holiday swim on Saturday, December 23rd from 1:30 to 5:00 pm. Join in reindeer pool games and a visit with Santa. Regular admission applies.

ALLERGIES?

Boxing Day Skate - Join your family

Canada 150 Skating Day - Let’s glide into winter with two free skate sessions on Sunday, December 10th at Oceanside Place Arena. The Parksville Lion’s and Save on Foods Free Family skate from 12:15-1:45 pm and Everyone Welcome Free Skate from 2:00-3:30 pm. Check #8, Skating, off your ParticipACTION 150 Playlist and celebrate Canada 150 with your friends. 2 0 1 7

It's 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. Join us for a variety of public skate sessions from December 15 to 31.

Dec 17, Sunday from 12:15-1:45 pm Free Family Skate, sponsored by Parksville Lions & Save On Foods.

the world your creative side with this hand-painted tote bag. No experience necessary. All supplies are provided. View painting project online. Saturday, December 2 from 2:30 to 4:00 pm at Qualicum Commons. Cost is $35. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks at 250-2483252 to pre-register.

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and friends at Oceanside Place Arena for the Annual Boxing Day Skate, 1:00 to 4:00 pm. All three ice surfaces are open for skating. You can enjoy skating around our Winter Wonderland, or playing pond hockey. Regular admission.

Allergies? PFFT! Gone! Call for more information

250-937-0655

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LAYING GHOSTS TO REST

POETRY

My father, raised in Skye, believed in ghosts. I went with him to feed the hens at night and came to share his fear that hellish hosts were prowling in the trees just out of sight. At ten years old, I thought it time to purge this nonsense from my mind. One night I walked the long, dark miles to where I planned to scourge myself with wraiths by whom I might be stalked:

was re-reading Thomas Gray's "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard", which has been described as "probably still today the best-known and best-loved poem in English." It's a reflection on all the people buried in a cemetery, and what their lives did and did not amount to. It's written with great compassion. My thoughts drifted to my father, long deceased, and how, raised in Skye where superstition abounded, he was afraid of the dark. When I was a boy, some of that rubbed off on me, but I cured myself by taking a similar viewpoint to Gray's. This poem emerged.

Kilmorack Churchyard. I unlatched the gate and entered. Gravestones, indistinct and dim, loomed round me and I felt the hand of Fate come close, no doubt to tear me limb from limb. Then I recalled the poem Thomas Gray had penned about the dead and their past lives as village folk who whiled their years away as ordinary husbands, kids, and wives. From such reflective calm, foreboding fled and all I sensed was kinship, sadness, peace, and freedom from suspicion that the dead have bones to pick with those they predecease.

ABOUT THIS POEM This poem has a simple form: each stanza has four five-beat lines rhymed abab and all the rhymes are masculine. (They fall on a single stressed syllable, e.g. purge/scourge.)

My father's in the darkness now, alone. On writing this, the thought occurs to me that maybe I should stand before his stone and read him Thomas Gray's dear elegy. ~

This poem was published on the Stoke Poges Thomas Gray 2016 Centenary website after winning an honorable mention in the Stoke Poges Society's 2014 "Inspired by the Elegy" competition.

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 coorganizer 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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BY THERESA KISHKAN

Euclid’s Orchard & Other Essays reviewed by Mary Ann Moore

“F

amily is both the source and inspiration for the essays collected in Euclid’s Orchard,” says Theresa Kishkan. She trys to “makes sense of the knot-work of relationships” in the opening essay, “Herakleitos on the Yalakom,” and others. The author explores, uncovers, discovers, and puzzles her way in lyrical and finely-tuned and finely-crafted essays. Upon reading Herakleitos and Diognes, by Guy Davenport, the author reflected on memories of her father: “I thought I understood something about you and something about me. Our river was never the same.” In “Tokens,” Kishkan searches for her mother’s past, visiting a Foundling Museum in London, England, a year after her mother Shirley died. In the museum are various tokens left by mothers to act as identifiers should they one day be able to return and take their child back. It’s a heartbreaking essay especially as Kishkan goes through the “tokens” of her own mother’s life: “Old photographs, crumbling certificates, telegrams, documents almost too faded to read, and mass cards.”

their home in the early 1980s. There she has found solid ground. And as she writes: “All my life, I’ve felt at home in language.” For this, we readers can be grateful. ~ Euclid’s Orchard & Other Essays by Theresa Kishkan (Mother Tongue Publishing, 2017)

Shirley Kishkan, born on Cape Breton Island and raised in Halifax, was a foundling according to the definition: “Deserted infant of unknown parents.” She was “born to an unwed mother and given to a foster mother to raise until adoptive parents could be found. But the foster mother never released her, nor adopted her.” Kishkan, the author, puzzled over that fact for a long time: Shirley’s foster mother Emma kept a distinction between Shirley and two biological children.

Mary Ann Moore is a poet, writer and writing mentor who lives in Nanaimo. www.maryannmoore.ca

Among the photographs included in the essay is one that features a bottle of My Sin Eau de Lanvin. Kishkan has the bottle of French perfume as she writes, reflecting on her father buying it perhaps in a duty-free store and bringing it back to her mother from southeast Asia in 1962. Kishkan has “regret for the way her [mother’s] life began, and ended,” and she has great courage too which I can only think is of benefit to her mother’s memory and to those of us who read this beautiful homage. While the sections of “Tokens,” begin with titles or a quotation, the title essay “Euclid’s Orchard,” has translations of Euclid’s axioms and postulates as epigraphs to some of its sections. The essay is Kishkan’s attempt to “understand something of mathematics’ beautiful structures” and is for her son Dr. Brendan Pass. Besides planting, harvesting, writing and raising children, Kishkan has made dozens of quilts over thirty years. She’s used to scribbling patterns onto scraps of paper and now wants “to find a way to sew the graphic representation of Euclid’s orchard.” Best to read the essay rather than have me explain, in very few words, the intricacies of Kishkan’s exploration of Euclid’s orchard: “an array of one-dimensional ‘trees’.” The long essay takes the author and we readers through an apple orchard at the north end of the Sechelt Peninsula where Kishkan and her husband built

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The Christmas Express E

CHO Player's production of the Christmas Express by Pat Cook, December 14th to 31st, is a perfect gift of theatre for children and adults. "This is the most hopeless place in the world!" Hilda drones as she and Satch, her assistant, argue over what time it is. Hilda has a genuine bah-humbug attitude toward the holiday season. Then, out of nowhere Leo Tannenbaum drops in the day before Christmas Eve. Suddenly, an old radio that hasn't worked in years springs to life, the local group of carolers who usually yowl like a gang of wet cats, begins to sound like the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the whole town gets into the Christmas spirit. Coincidence? Or is Leo doing all this? Christmas Express is full of eccentric small town characters who wise-crack their way to finding the true wonder of Christmas.

Above: The cast of The Christmas Express in rehearsal.

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Director, Mari-Lyn Kelly has a wonderful group of talent to bring these flagrantly “over the top” characters to delightful life. In the town of Holly, population is shrinking, spirits are waning and the local train station is all but barren. “Ain’t nothin’ ‘round here but dust” retorts the snarky station manager Hilda played by Helen Margaret Randall . The station is a disaster. Everything is in disrepair and just a few days before Christmas Hilda has no desire to put up holiday décor. The station’s porter, Satch (Len Mustard) ambles around in an attempt to keep the place lively with his goofy stories. Suddenly two travelers, equally mysterious, arrive. First, the secretive and charismatic Leo Tannenbaum,

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played by Jay Silverberg, brightens up the station and the town of Holly. The second, cold and unfriendly Mr. Fairfax, (Werner Koch) is a “snooper”. Rounding out the cast are Jennifer Fleming as the wonderfully nosy reporter, Penelope. Bella Meerveld plays Myrna, the passive aggressive head of the carolers. Katy Corfe and Trent Bjorsen as Donna and Jerry, a newlywed couple have a unique little spat. Faye Greer is Maggie the mail carrier. Last but not least, and fifth newcomer to ECHO Players in the cast, is Teresa Peterson as Deborah who provides a unique and fun twist to the show. The train station, designed by Fred Knabb and constructed by ECHO Players highly skilled and much loved construction crew is a character of its own. Helen Hill-Tout’s costume designs reflect the styles of the 1950s. Designers Kevan Hill-Tout and Denise SchuetzJones provide delightful atmosphere with lighting and sound. Christmas Express offers traditional holiday magic, a powerful message of hope, and the cause for infectious laughter that's sure to make your holidays bright. You'll be glad you came to ECHO Players production of Christmas Express. Christmas Express will run from December 14th to the 31st. Box office will be open from November 28th 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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LIONS RECREATION HALL (LRH) 280 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay.

Lighthouse Country this month CARPET BOWLING – 12:45 to 3pm at the LCC. FMI Call Layne (250) 757-8217.

LIGHTHOUSE COMMUNITY CENTRE (LCC) 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay.

AA LIGHTKEEPERS – Fridays at 7pm at the LCC.

SECOND SUNDAY MARKET at the Lighthouse Community Centre in Qualicum Bay – Sunday December 10th - 8amnoon, Pancake Breakfast - $6 or $8. Enjoy live music, breakfast, and shopping for a treasure! The Hall Board will be serving up breakfast.

BRIDGE – Seniors Room, 1-4pm Fridays at the LCC. FMI Sheila Steele 250-757-8307. FOR MORE ACTIVITIES AT THE LCC, VISIT WWW.COMMUNITYHALL.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.

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 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.

Left to right :- Mike Gilker (Qualicum Bay Lions) : Brian Worthen (Vice Principal)

TAOIST™ TAI CHI - Mondays 10:00-noon at the Lighthouse Community Centre in Qualicum Bay. Contact: 250-240-3387 or parksville@taoist.org

Shirley Phillips (President Qualicum Bay Lions) : Kevin McKee (Principal)

n Wednesday November 1 2017 , the Qualicum Bay Lions Club made a presentation of $4,000.00 to the Bowser Elementary School hot lunch program . The Qualicum Bay Lions have funded this program now for many years and are committed to the fact that no child should ever go hungry . It is a well known fact that a child that does

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.

not have enough to eat cannot learn. This program at Bowser School is well known in the community to be one of the best . The Qualicum Bay Lions are very proud to be a part of a program that will help children to learn and will continue to support the Bowser Elementary School in feeding the children. ~

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. More events at www.eyesonbc.com D E C E M B E R

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The Tea Room

The original home - photo courtesy Milner Gardens collection Veronica continued to live at the home she named “Long Distance” as it had become her second love. She focused on her passion for the gardens and her art. Over a forty year period, she gathered plants from temperate zones around the world, with a significant collection of her beloved Rhododendrons. During that time, the Princess of Wales, Lady Diana and Prince Charles and Queen Elizabeth II, all came to visit. Veronica’s mother was the first cousin of Winston Churchill, which made her related to the Royal Family. What a joyous time for Veronica!

Geoff Ball · Executive Director, Milner Gardens

After many years, the gardens and woodlands became too much for Veronica to tend to, so in 1996, she gifted Milner Gardens to Vancouver Island University so the property could be maintained and enjoyed for generations to come. Part of the agreement was that Veronica had tenancy rights to live out her final days, until she passed away at her home is the fall of 1998. Since then, Executive Director Geoff Ball has lovingly maintained Milner Gardens with the support of the University and many volunteers in the community. Several changes have taken place since the University acquired the property. The pool house has been converted into a

Article photos by Dawn Hunter Clark, except where noted

gift shop and the pool has been converted into a reflecting pool, to capture the beauty of the trees and plants that surround it. The public can purchase an array of plants from the nursery and folks can enjoy tea and scones in the Milner House dining rooms, now the popular Camellia Tea House. Milner House provides many educational programs via the University such as horticulture, baking, science and visual arts. They also provide many children’s programs. It's the perfect place for a wedding or any other special event. Visit during December for Milner Gardens biggest event of the year – Christmas Magic. It's a festival of lights leading through the woodlands to the main house complete with music, food, gingerbread houses, a teddy bear display and of course, Santa Claus. Drop by Milner Gardens at 2179 Island Hwy. W. in Qualicum Beach. They can also be reached at (250)752-6153 or you can check out their website at www2.viu.ca/milnergardens Milner Gardens…once Long Distance…now a magical place for all to discover in the heart of Oceanside. ~

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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From me to you ... May this season wrap you warmly in the love of family and friends!