SALT SPRING ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURE March 2016 - FISSUE #91
FREE & EASY
Arvid Chalmers
Enjoy Yourself • 6 & 7 Easter Art Tour
10 Year Anniversary • 8 March Calendar of
STUFF to DO on the ROCK • 9 Guest Columnist
Teron Wolf • 14
The
County Line Friday March 11 at Moby’s Pub
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THU MAR 3 | 7:30PM
ONE MAN
STAR WARS
“FUNNIER THAN YOU COULD POSSIBLY IMAGINE” -SPIN MAGAZINE
Bar opens at 6:30 pm Proudly sponsored by Victoria Olchowecki 537-2102 | www.tickets.artspring.ca
Come dressed as your favourite Star Wars character!
Adults: $23 Youth: $5
On Our Cover
The
County Line at Moby’s Pub Friday, March 11th The County Line is a country music duo consisting of singersongwriters Hayden Cyr and Megan Johns. Formed in 2013, the duo pulls from country, bluegrass, pop, and rock influences for their songwriting and is based out of Victoria BC. While working on their own original material, The County Line has built their fan base by performing popular country covers at venues across BC. Live performances are done as a 4-5 piece electric band, with over 100 live shows performed in 2015 alone. These gigs at stages across the island have paved the way to remarkable performance opportunities. These include performing for thousands of people at Sunfest 2015 after Thomas Rhett, guest performances with Shania Twain’s touring musicians, a promotional partnership with Pabst and Sleemans Breweries, and a house band slot at Vancouver Island’s only country bar: Victoria’s The Duke Saloon. While perfecting their sound, and gaining incredible experience in live performance, the duo’s goal has continued to be their own original material. With a focus on bringing their own sound to the Country Top 40 genre, the duo has been busy songwriting over the past year and are excited to release their debut EP in the summer of 2016. Their hard work has already begun to pay off and this past September brought the opportunity to debut some of these originals when the duo opened for Brett Kissel. On February 8th 2016, they debuted more of their original work when they opened for George Canyon in Sidney BC.
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FISHBOWL
Scopes Brought to you by our own in-house astrologer who now goes by her numerologically correct name of “Ya Righta.”
^ Aries:
It is vital that you recognize your weaknesses and learn how to manage and minimize the way in which they hold you back.
_ Taurus:
You will be pushed beyond your comfort zone. Use this as a chance to re-examine your own attitudes and analyze why you feel this way.
` Gemini:
March of 2016 is a terrific month to re-launch or rebrand yourself – find a new audience or expand beyond your current genre.
a Cancer:
d Libra:
If you are looking to start a new diet or health diet to improve your overall well-being and fitness, anything you start now can be very successful, and you will stick to it.
e Scorpio:
While it’s true that our work or career does not always fulfil us, it is often via hobbies and pastimes that we can connect with our true purpose or calling and feel a sense of meaning.
f Sagittarius:
Family matters may be the driving force for you moving home as well. If you moved a long way away from home in order to get a job, you might begin to think about moving back to your hometown.
You may begin to acknowledge that your beliefs, and these are not just religious beliefs, but your general beliefs about g people and life, are changing. These changes If you have been putting something off, mean that your needs and ambitions are now is the time to tackle it – it may be an changing as well. essay or letter you need to write, a form you need to fill out, or errand you need to run.
Capricorn:
b Leo:
Younger Leos may see some of the events this month as disappointing and may feel disillusioned and even angry at fate and life. Those Leos who are more mature and take a more philosophical approach will see events this month as a chance to learn valuable lessons about themselves and others.
h Aquarius:
c Virgo:
This is a time when you feel a greater sense of self and of the power you have to direct your life – it is a time of decisions and of taking the reins into your hands.
Virgo, in March of 2016 there is a big focus on interpersonal communication, both intimate and business.
Aquarians are plagued in the early stages of this year with a need to prove themselves in ways that are not ultimately very nourishing.
i Pisces:
T H E F I S H B O W L - M A R C H 2 0 1 6 • PA G E F O U R
Price is Right
PRODUCT REVIEWS
by: Genevieve Price Sponsored by
BURT’s BEES PINK GRAPEFRUIT Facial Cleansing Towelettes I first noticed these cleansing wipes at last year’s “Woman’s Winter eve” event. The ladies were going crazy for them and the shelf was empty within the first hour. Obviously I had to try them. The formula is mild, I feel a slight tingle on my cheeks if my skin is dry when I use them, otherwise they leave my skin feeling fresh and clean. I often carry them in my purse for a quick freshen up during a long day and I often use them when I’m too tired at night to properly remove my makeup. I don’t know if it would do a great job of removing makeup for full-face wearers, but its great at taking off the light powder, blush and mascara I wear. A fantastic product priced at $9.99
T H E F I S H B O W L - M A R C H 2 0 1 6 • PA G E F I V E
this March
Photo Credit Derek Ford
On the heels of the newest Star Wars film, ArtSpring presents the One Man Star Wars Trilogy on March 3rd. Back by popular demand after his incredible One Man Lord of the Rings, Charles Ross performs his high energy one-hour non-stop blast through the three original Star Wars films. This show is a must-see for die-hard fans and newbies alike. Come dressed as your favourite Star Wars character! On March 5th, ArtSpring presents a live Met Opera broadcast of Puccini’s Manon Lescaut. Soprano Kristine Opolais sings the title role of the country girl who transforms herself into a Parisian temptress and tenor Jonas Kaufmann is the dashing student who desperately woos her. Director Richard Eyre places the action in occupied France in a film noir setting. Following the opera broadcast on the 5th, a Death Café takes place in the ArtSpring lobby. This unique (and free) event is part of a global movement to increase awareness of death and help people make the most of their finite lives. The discussion is facilitated by moderators from Salt Spring Hospice and is open to all. French-Canadian bass-baritone Philippe Sly joins forces with pianist Michael McMahon on March 7th. The San Francisco Chronicle describes the prize-winning singer, who is gaining international notoriety, as having a “beautiful, blooming tone and magnetic stage presence”. Beginning on March 9th, George Ehring conducts the final of his legendary classical music appreciation courses. Be sure to seize the opportunity to enroll in this exciting five-week course – The Anatomy of Music. Pianist Janina Fialkowska has enchanted audiences all over the world with her exquisite playing for almost forty years and she performs on March 15th at ArtSpring. Called by CBC “Canada’s national treasure”, Fialkowska has performed with the foremost North American orchestras and has toured extensively in Europe and Asia. Now hear her live at ArtSpring! For tickets to any of our shows call the ArtSpring Box Office at 250.537.2102 or visit www.tickets.artspring.ca. For a complete listing of events at ArtSpring visit www.artspring.ca/events. Did you know that most of our ArtSpring Presents shows have a youth ticket price of only $5 courtesy Country Grocer’s generous support?
PETER VINCENT
CITIZEN at LARGE
How Squash Saved My Life
Doctor: “Says here, you’re 31, but that’s impossible.” Me: 31 years old - 220 pounds of cigarette smoking, hard drinking, carousing animal flesh packaged in a three piece Armani, working Victoria real estate in a late model Audi. Early 1981 I had a moment of clarity, speeding to an early morning appointment wearing clothes from the night before, balancing a take-out coffee, a Kleenex up my nose to staunch the bleeding. Noting my deplorable condition, an officemate suggested a game of squash at the local courts. For the uninitiated, squash is a nasty little game played in an enclosed 21’ by 32’ two story closet armed with a racquet half the head size of a tennis racquet hitting a sluggish little orb the size of ping pong ball. In a nutshell, a game primed for heartbreak and injury. Unforgiving walls will eat up your $100 racquet with every misjudged return. The constant danger of an opponent’s wild back swing ending up across the bridge of your nose. That ball has been clocked at 175 mph. Imagine “Although there have been the delight of taking one of these attempts to get a squash missiles on the back of a bare thigh. court on the island, none It leaves an angry purple hematoma that persists for days. have succeeded. Until now.” My friend took it easy on me, parked at the service “T” smacking shots left and right to the back of the court, whilst I lumbered from side to side, finally collapsing in a pool of sweat, gasping for breath, blubbering like a baby. Forbes magazine has crowned squash the healthiest sport on the planet. Fast forward a year. I was now a svelte 175 lb., non smoking, clean, healthy once-a-day squash playing machine. When you socialize in squash circles, you find yourself befriended by fit, smart (squash is the racquet equivalent to chess,) affable, soda water sipping pals who will spend hours obsessing about a misplayed point. For twenty-five years my racquet has been stuck on a hook in my basement, and I have slowly regained 15 lbs. Although there have been attempts to get a squash court on the island, none have succeeded. Until now. The Salt Spring Squash Club has been relentlessly jumping through the hoops to make this happen. Former squash heads from all walks of life are attempting to erect a public court at the golf club. There are hurdles, not the least of which are financial. With no government grants, its all on Salt Springers. We’re not talking Fire Hall money - only $150,000, with $50,000 already banked. Contributing is quite painless and tax deductible, and there is even a way to help the project in the form of a repayable loan. Go to http://www.saltspringsquash.ca to see the on-line donation options. If you find yourself morphing into an island muffin, this is the perfect antidote. With your help, the court should be ready in time for next winter, offering squash to school programs and to anyone with a penchant for mastering controlled lunacy. Squash turned my life around. I still have the welts to prove it.
T H E F I S H B O W L - M A R C H 2 0 1 6 • PA G E S I X
y o j n E f l e s Your Enjoy yourself, it’s later than you think. Enjoy yourself, while you’re still in the pink. The years go by, as quickly as a wink. Enjoy yourself, enjoy yourself, it’s later than you think. Photo by: Rick Neufeld/Noofoto
Bateman Has Issues starring the most awesome John Bateman
If you didn’t meet Arvid Chalmers during your first few hours on Salt Spring, then chances are you met him within your first few days here. It was literally impossible to miss him. If he knew you, he would yell across the street or stroll over as only he could, with a beaming smile on his face. If you didn’t know him, he would make a point of making sure you did. Depending on how you knew him, he might give you his trademark, “helllloh” or he might do a quick shoulder check, lean into you ear and say something so outrageous that your knees would buckle. For me, Arvid was the de facto father to my dear friend, James Wilkinson. Some of you might remember James, the musician, the comedian the actor. When James died suddenly in 2002 at the age of 35, the kinship that he and Arvid shared came screeching to a halt. Naturally Arvid’s death has stirred up old James memories that have made this past month even harder to deal with. Arvid, like a few others on the island was supposed to live forever. For me, he came with the place. Like the petroglyph in Fulford or the fountain of youth that spouts from the middle of the road in Ganges. People come, people go but Arvid was supposed to stay. He was supposed to be there to introduce an infinite future of generations of Island inhabitants to Salt Spring. Arvid personified the island. He reminded us that Salt Spring is as much defined by its people as it is its stunning landscapes.
Yes, he was kind and friendly. He was also direct and crass. And funny; His humour could instantly adjust to the people around him. Like many others here, humour was one of his main modes of communication. Weather he was making a subtly cutting remark on stage, or leaning in and whispering the latest scuttle-but on the island, he made people laugh. My first real encounter with Arvid was back in the heyday of the Hysterical Society. He and James, along with their talented cohorts would do skits and monologues. I was always jealous of them, but I had stage fright. After moving here, many years later I, to many people’s dismay, lost my fear of the stage. I waited and waited for an opportunity to perform with Arvid. I saw it as a form of closure. A way to put James’ loss into a different, lighter perspective. Then, dumb luck, the only kind of luck I know, happened. It started when I begged the organizers of the Garlic and Music festival to host the main stage. After they said yes, I thought, “Oh shit, what the hell have I done? How am I supposed to fill 20 minutes between every set?” The answer, of course was Arvid. Not only would he help fill the 20 minutes, we would have to basically taser him to get him off the stage. I called, he said “Hoooray!” It turned into 2 days of dream come true and closure. There were double hugs, muttering to each other while covering the mic. Real laughs backstage and hundreds of, “Chicka-Booms!”. He lifted my game like he did everyone that he could lay eyes on. Goodbye Arvid, and thank you.
T H E F I S H B O W L - M A R C H 2 0 1 6 • PA G E S E V E N
MEL byitMelinda OVER Parks-Divers Losing Arvid How do you say GOODBYE to someone you never had to say HELLO to? Who once you saw, there you were. Present, in the moment with them. Filled with joy from the smile formed by their eyes finding you in their sight. No matter what had been going through your mind or how much pain you felt in your heart, it dissipated in the presence of these eyes and this smile. It forgot what it was fretting once it heard the tone of this voice. There was no load this mans laugh couldn’t lighten. No person his joy didn’t touch. How do you say farewell to someone you never imagined Salt Spring without? You don’t... You Hooray, you Hoorah and Boo Hoo but Arvid I will never say Good Bye to you. Because I know you didn’t leave us lost without you. But only went on ahead to a place you can cheer us all along in our hearts whistling and singing your song. ~ Kael Lalonde
I had to write about this man we all loved and admired. But I am choosing not to write about the obvious sad about losing him. I am not going to mention, any farther then right here, right now, within this sentence the great hole that is left in his passing. That is all too obvious. Rather, I am going to tell you a story about how his passing can change every one of our lives, forever more by looking at his example. We all know he was a lover. He had a heart the size of the universe! He loved all and everyone. Let us choose the lesson from him right now to love all unconditionally. Arvid resonated happiness and contentment. He took his complaints and added humour to make us laugh, and ease the seriousness, and the pain of the situation. He even made a comedy out of his cancer diagnosis and together with his comedian friend Sid, developed a skit to lighten the news to everyone. The lesson learned is to have a light heart and be positive. He was never afraid to meet anyone, express love, make a joke, be on stage in front of people, or share intimate conversation. He never desired to dominate any of these scenarios, rather experience and share them. Arvid never took himself overly serious! He was all too willing to show off his belly or dress himself up as a woman fearlessly, and playfully! I choose to learn to take myself less seriously, meet people without fear, and be comfortable in my own being from this. He celebrated everyone’s good luck or good fortune. “Hooray!” He would say as he held his hand over his heart. Never a jealous moment, he never needed to feed his own ego and up anyone’s opportunities. In the situation of a misfortune, not a soul could be as compassionate, or uplifting. He seemed to always know the right words or the right emotional remedy for any situation. There is a lesson of mindfulness from this. One of the most amazing attributes Arvid had was his gift of laughter and an incredible sense of lightness and humour. He had a permanent grin, a never ending happiness that would pull you in and wash away any negativity. He did this by just being. Being full of appreciation for life, friends, community, shared moments, alone moments, a good laugh, a good cup of tea... He could turn any negative into a positive with his light, affectionate way of which he spread himself into everyone’s hearts, selflessly. He never seemed to be caught up in himself, rather, involved with all whole hearted with true intention. He was kind of a guru among us, but he continues to be in spirit through his example. I feel blessed and privileged to have known him. Producer of turmeric based elixirs for health, vitality and enjoyment! moonshinemamas.ca
T H E F I S H B O W L - M A R C H 2 0 1 6 • PA G E E I G H T
10th
Annual
Help us celebrate a milestone in the Salt Spring Island arts scene with the 10th Annual Easter Art Tour! To celebrate our big anniversary, we are exhibiting a group show of 50 artists in painting, sculpture and photography at historic Mahon Hall in Ganges. Founded in 2007 with a monumental exhibit of the allegorical paintings of Diana Dean, the anchor exhibits have ranged from single artist retrospectives, to dynamic pairings, trios and quintets, right up to large inclusive group shows. Over the years, the work of over 150 artists has been seen on the walls of the Hall. The range of discipline and medium has been equally inclusive, representing the broad spectrum of Island artists. We have had paintings, drawings, printmaking and assemblage. There has been sculpture made of clay, stone, wood, fibre and metal. Photography has been well represented with scenes of nature, people and abstraction. A few artists have shown installation works, using wood, paint and metal - one piece even had a human participant. The Exhibit and Tour has evolved, and this year will see the introduction of an expanded program of events for kids and adults alike, all designed to engage art lovers and enhance participation. Accompanying the nine day run of the show, there will be artist talks, film screenings, workshops and dance performance. Easter has become the launch of the art season on Salt Spring, and everyone gets in on the act. There have been as many as five openings coinciding with the opening reception held on Good Friday, so put on your walking shoes. Self guided Tour maps and info about the participating studios, galleries and special exhibits are available at Mahon Hall. Web and mobile users can visit the website for images as well as info about the exhibition and events. The Tour is a proudly sponsored program of the Salt Spring Arts Council, and is generously co-sponsored by the Gulf Islands Driftwood. The opening reception is on Good Friday, March 25th from 6-9 pm. Visit the website www.saltspringeasterarttour.com and find us on Facebook. www.facebook.com/saltspringeasterarttour
T H E F I S H B O W L - M A R C H 2 0 1 6 • PA G E T E N T H E F I S H B O W L - F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 6 • PA G E T W E L V E
For Everyone
with Salt Spring Island teacher Dorothy Price
Guest Columnist
AMBER Yoga WOOD R.Ac
FLEXING YOUR INTUITIVE MUSCLE
“The most confused we ever get is when we try to convince our heads of something our hearts know is a lie.” - Karen Moning Some people will tell you that we let our rational, conscious mind control decisionmaking too much and we don’t pay enough attention to our intuition. Our intuition is always there, whether or not we pay attention to it. Bringing our cognitive (conscious) mind and our intuition into balance will help us thrive in daily life and in business. There can be pitfalls to relying heavily on intuition, especially if we have not developed our skills at listening clearly to its guidance. It would seem a balance of intuition, rational conscious thinking and good old common sense is the best combination for a good outcome. What is intuition? Intuition is knowledge or belief obtained neither by reason nor by perception but by instinctive knowledge. Ways in which we can strengthen our intuitive powers: • Align with your values. This may be the most important practice of all. Your intuition will never lead you away from your integrity. When you’re betraying your values you’ll learn what intuition doesn’t feel like. • Meditating. Meditation or going for a walk, especially in nature, calms the mind and helps you “hear” those subtler messages; that inner voice. • Being more observant. What you see, feel, hear, smell and taste can help you be more in tune with your inner and outer world. Thus honing your intuitive powers. Notice coincidences and surprising connections, and you’ll start to tap into your intuition. • Practice sensing into people before you know them. • Dreams. During the day the conscious mind is very busy. When we sleep the conscious mind rests and can open an opportunity for the unconscious mind to send you messages. • Creative activities such as doing art, singing, dancing or journaling can quiet the conscious mind, allowing your intuition to surface. • Test your “gut feelings”. When you have a feeling or hunch about someone or something, take note, and check-in later to see if you were right. • How is your body reacting? Pay attention. It could be a natural reaction to fear or it could be your intuition trying to speak up. Take note for future reference. • Learn from the past. Think back to an instance when you had warnings from your intuition but didn’t listen and realized afterward that you should have. Try to remember what warnings you ignored. • Feeling. Try to determine if you are thinking or feeling. Are you listening to your fearful mind or feeling your intuition? • Do Yoga. Engaging in a mind/body practice like yoga, or a repetitive physical action like walking or running, calms the cognitive mind with steady repetitive movement. Intuition can help us make wise decisions but also has the power to foster our expertise, creativity, love and spirituality... you know where I am headed! See you on the mat! ~ Dorothy Dorothy teaches classes & retreats locally & worldwide. Visit www.santosha-yoga-retreats.com or phone 250-537-7675
How does ACUPUNCTURE work? PAIN
Acupuncture signals the brain to release potent pain killing chemicals. These include endorphins, norepinephrine and enkephalin. Studies show that some of these are 10-200 times stronger than morphine but lack negative side effects. This may be why acupuncture is used to treat addiction. Whiplash, sports or workplace injury can be treated with orthopaedic acupuncture using motor points to release shortened or spasming muscles.
DIGESTION & IMMUNITY Vasodilation increases with acupuncture allowing more nutrients, immune substances and natural anti-inflammatories to reach the tissues. The gastrointestinal tract is where many diseases start and also where the majority of our immune system is. There are hundreds of trillions of bacteria mostly in the large intestine that are play a crucial role in health. Eat microbiota accessible carbohydrates (MAC’s). These are foods that survive the small intestine and make it to the colon. Eat fermentable fibres like raw sauerkraut and resistant starches like tapioca, plantains and tarot. Explore eating a low FODMAP diet. Research around the human microbiome is exploding and for good reason. Acupuncturists have known for thousands of years that the gut is the core of health and that receiving treatment promotes the ‘rest and digest’ response. Acupuncture acts on immunity system in acute conditions like a cold or flu and in more complex autoimmune diseases. Colds or flus are straightforward to treat especially at the initial onset. The body still goes through the process of fighting the pathogen but with treatment it happens faster, with less intensity and a lower chance having it lingering or reoccur. In autoimmune conditions there are three legs or contributing factors to look for and work with. The first is leaky gut which is why diet therapy is a central component of this medicine. The second is genetics which come into expression because of the third factor which includes all environmental triggers. Epigenetics or gene expression is responsible for 90% of disease formation so just mapping out our genes isn’t enough. Lifestyle, stress management and diet needs to be determined on an individual basis for what’s appropriate. There is no right way for everyone all of the time. Having said that it is helpful for most people to eat like our ancestors did.
HORMONES This includes the HPA axis and sex hormones. Insomnia, fertility, stress response, energy and appetite are all affected by hormone balance. The HPA axis refers to the hypothalamus, pituitary and adrenal glands. Sex hormones are secondary to this axis. When we aren’t sleeping or stress is high cortisol highjacks the pathway to estrogen and testosterone. What acupuncture does is stimulate the autonomic nervous system regulating mood, appetite, libido and a host of other pleasurable responses in the body. It releases oxytocin, the ‘calm and connect’ hormone. Amber Wood, R. Ac practices at Island Natural Health on Salt Spring Island. She is currently continuing her studies in Functional Medicine. Find more articles and tips for health you can do yourself at www.amberwoodhealth.ca
T H E F I S H B O W L - M A R C H 2 0 1 6 • PA G E E L E V E N
My Food Matters
by CHEF KEN B
If your food isn’t singing to you, you need to turn up the volume! Complementing flavours that help make up the taste of a particular food item are essential if you are to truly enjoy your cooking. Flavours such as: spices, herbs, fruit, oils, salts, etc. that are used appropriately, can actually lift your spirits and calm your mind. Ok, so you have this beautiful piece of meat, fish or vegetable and you prepare it, follow a recipe perhaps, call your family to the table with anticipation that they will enjoy your creation. You, of course, are expecting favourable comments and expressions of delight. Everyone starts eating and a few minutes go by and there is not the excitement you had hoped for. Knowing your purchase was of good quality, you are puzzled by why, with your own admission, what you had put effort into, failed to sing to you or your family. There are many accents, supporting staff and “bring it up a notch” additions you can add to spice up your food life! Some of my favourites include; lemons, oranges and limes with zest, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, sesame oil, tahini, garlic, onions, apples, dried fruit, seeds and nuts. On steamed vegetables try making a little dressing as you would a salad. Extra Virgin Olive oil mixed with lemon, tahini, Dijon, chopped parsley, water, sea salt and pepper will surely boost flavour. Even just a squeeze of lemon with a good Extra Virgin Olive Oil is awesome when dressing good quality vegetables. Try making a little vegetable stock with carrots, celery, onion, little olive oil, bay leaf and peppercorns simmering in water for ½ hr. and use that instead of plain water to cook your rice. You’d be surprised at the difference. Do you like roast chicken and have rosemary in the fridge or planting pot. Try making a rub with this herb, thyme, oregano, paprika, sea salt, black pepper and a little olive oil and rub all over your bird and inside the carcass before roasting. Start the music now!! Seeds and nuts are very useful to broaden the taste structure of appropriate dishes. You can make pesto’s, spreads, dips and garnishes to enhance flavours and texture. Texture plays a huge role in the overall result of any dish. I use fresh oranges, apples or a little dried fruit to replace sugar in certain things like dressings. A good quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil can do wonders. I never cook with it as its qualities are compromised that way. Instead, use it as a dressing or drizzle some on a piece of your favourite bread or into your bowl of soup. There are no rules in cooking. Do as you please and see fit. Cook with love but not by demand. Explore non-familiar ingredients to bring flavours up a notch. Use your imagination and your desire to eat well to enhance your food life and experience of it.
Love What You Cook, Love What You Eat! allmyfoodmatters@gmail.com
T THHE EF FI SI SHHB BOOWWL L- -D M E CAERM C BHE 2R 021061 •5 P• APA G EG TE WF EI VL EV E
Marsha’s
Book
the
Singing Amma*
Reviews
with Marsha Moreau
Lisa Sigurgeirson Maxx, ECE Nurturing, empowering & educating families for over 30 years *amma = grandmother in Icelandic Dear Singing Amma What do you suggest for dealing with a child who swears? We don’t mind too much at home, but in public it can be embarrassing - or worse - depending who overhears it (like grandma!) and how offended they might feel. signed, Seeking Clean Language Dear Clean-Speaking-Seekers, As babies grow into toddlers, then preschoolers, and through their primary years, they will copy what they hear and see the significant adults in their lives saying and doing. Children imitate the people closest to them as an instinctive way of learning about life. They learn by noticing what affect and effect a given action creates in the world around them. If the reaction is interesting to them they will try that same action again to see if it garners the same, a similar, or a different reaction. Young children are like scientists on a path of Great Discovery: discovering what they say and do in the world and how the world responds, and learning how those actions create change in their environment and in the greater world around them. When a young child hears an adult swear (and these days, lets face it, most do) the child will try adding these expressions to their ever-growing vocabulary. Many words a toddler tries out will win them great accolades from parents and grandparents and others around them. They are now simply putting these new words to the test in their Discovery Lab of Life. Often when people swear it is in moments of frustration - (when trying to get out the door in a hurry and the phone rings, somebody asks another question, you can’t find your keys…) - or in response to pain - (you stub your toe or hit your thumb with a hammer); behind the actual words used in these instances a lot of emotion is conveyed. Children are sensitive to feelings that lurk behind words. So, that particular word, used in that particular way, had some powerful energy attached, they notice. Hmm… let’s try that out, the four-year-old-brain thinks, and see how it feels for me. Often, when our beautiful little angels curse for the first time parents can have a surprised or disapproving reaction. And a reaction, experienced in the Laboratory of Childhood, deserves more research! So, one of the best ways to limit your little one’s tendency to swear is to ignore it when they do. Carry on a conversation as though nothing was out of the ordinary. A lack of reaction may allow the new words to pass through the Laboratory as un-interesting and undeserving of further research. Modeling the behavior – and language – you’d like to see is imperative. Having different sets of rules for different family members can feel upsetting. It can be helpful too, if the experiments persist, to let children know that some people find some words offensive. Choosing non-offensive words together to use in their place can help. Practice together with gentle reminders. Play with rhyming words. Allow children playfulness. Send your parenting questions to: the.singing.amma@gmail.com or www.facebook.com/thesingingamma Could a private session with the singing amma be helpful for you and your family? email: lisasigurgeirsonmaxx@gmail.com to book your session today!
Avenue of Mysteries by John Irving For whatever reason I never think to include John Irving in my list of favourite authors but I appear to have read almost everything he’s written. In fact, my youngest two children exclaimed when I pulled out my book on the ferry, “You’re reading another book by that guy? You’re always reading his books. And we pay attention to what you read, so you must really love him.” I’m not sure why this surprised me, considering I’ve read twelve of the fourteen novels he’s written (I had to count at the kids’ insistence). I like that he writes sprawling, epic tales of families and dysfunction. He can be graphic in a very matter of fact way, there’s always lots of characters to keep track of and stories can veer down some bizarre roads, careening into laugh out loud ridiculousness that borders on slapstick. There are recurring themes and types of characters, which I suppose, feels comfortable, like pulling on a cozy, worn sweater. Oh that old thing? I could never get rid of it…it just feels so familiar. I guess that’s it. John Irving has become something of a habit for me. I’m not sure I could stop even if I wanted to. Which brings me to Avenue “I like that he writes of Mysteries, his latest novel. sprawling, epic tales I found it a tough read. It had all the elements of a classic of families Irving but it just wasn’t as and dysfunction.” eloquently put together as it has been in the past. It’s the story of an author, Juan Diego, who was born in Mexico and now lives in America. While on an important journey he weaves in and out of his past, revisiting painful memories while he dreams. His sister Lupe features prominently in his remembered life in Mexico. She’s an interesting character, one who can read the thoughts of others and who can see the past, and less reliably, the future. Their sibling dynamic is one of the best parts of this book, but unfortunately there’s not enough of it. Juan Diego’s present day story includes several confusing, meandering plot lines, with too many strange characters, and not enough substance. I finished this book because I (obviously) have an attachment to the author, but this is definitely not his best work. If you’ve never read John Irving, please don’t start with this one. He can do better, and he has.
T H E F I S H B O W L - M A R C H 2 0 1 6 • PA G E T H I R T E E N
Destiny’s Wild March 21st at MOBY’S PUB
Destiny’s Wild is a recently formed cover band consisting of six of Victoria, BC’s most talented and versatile session musicians and songwriters. The group shares a passion for the legends of Soul, R&B and funk of the 70’s and 80’s that has inspired pop artists like Beyonce, Destiny’s Child, Amy Winehouse, and Adele. Started in 2015, Destiny’s Wild has played at Canoe Brewpub regularly. The band also has played at Darcy’s Pub Westshore and Swans Brewpub and always engages the audience in a high energy experience. Featuring: Sean Thompson - Drums (The Bandits, Dylan Stone band, The New Souls), Aaron Scoones - bass (Timebenders, Electric Timber Co.), Dakota Hoeppner - keys (The New Souls), Chris Neal - Guitar (The New Souls) and Theresa Pasaluko Vocals (The New Groovement).
For any bar, club, or event requiring live music, Destiny’s Wild.
Heads up documentary film LOVERS!
The annual film festival runs at GISS from March 4-6. Whether you buy a weekend pass ($35 including Gala Night), determined to see as many docs as your eyes and rear end will tolerate, a day pass ($15) and meticulously pre-select the films you want to watch, or, maybe you just want to see how you feel on the day, the festival will not disappoint. There are films that enlighten, films that send shivers down your spine, films that speak of hope and joy amid abject circumstances, films that are rich in seductive visual imagery, films that make you laugh, and films that move you to tears. Expect storytelling at its finest. One bonus feature of the festival that’s always popular is the chance to schmooze with some of the folks who made the films. This year’s attendees are, John Bolton, an award-winning filmmaker from Vancouver who directed “Debris”, a story of one man’s quest to forge meaning out of the 2011 tsunami following the Japanese earthquake , Chris Hsiung, director of “Elder in the Making”, a strong proponent of advocacy and engagement through the medium of documentary film, Shannen O’ Brien and Daniel J. Pierce co-directors of “For Our Daughters”, Selwyn Jacob, producer of “Ninth Floor” and Sarah Robertson, director of “Sea Blind”, along with the film’s editor, Salt Spring resident, Jennifer Abbott. Ali Harris, director of “Xwaaqw’um”, a short film shot in Burgoyne Bay park, will also be attending. For more information about the films and screening times, see the festival website www.saltspringfilmfestival.com.
T H E F I S H B O W L - M A R C H 2 0 1 6 • PA G E F O U R T E E N
EMPOWERING PEOPLE. CHANGING LIVES. with TERON WOLF
LET’S TALK ABOUT LISTENING One of the biggest challenges in any relationship is that of establishing effective communication. It’s easy to get fired-up about getting our own point across, but it can sometimes be challenging to hear another’s position with equal enthusiasm. The most important skill we can master in the art of listening is the ability to let go of the need to defend, explain, retaliate or reply. For truly effective communication to occur, we must listen sincerely, and with a deep desire to understand. This isn’t always easy, especially when the topic at hand is one we have strong feelings about. But when we listen with genuine care and curiosity, some truly magical things start to happen: 1. Arguing stops. Seriously. As soon as we release our positions as oppositional forces, we open the door to cooperation, ease, and understanding. 2. Connections are made. When people feel safe, heard, and understood, we open, expand, and connect. 3. Understanding unfolds. When we listen from a place of genuine caring for another, we tap into our own compassion. Compassion is the birthplace of understanding. 4. Solutions are discovered. Letting go of our default ideas and positions makes room for creative solutions and new perspectives. 5. We learn and grow. Opening to ideas and concepts we may not yet have considered creates space for new possibilities. SO, HOW DO WE DO IT? Start by being aware of your own biases, agendas, opinions, and reactions – then temporarily let them go. It is totally safe to do this. Your self-concept will still be there when you are finished listening. Connect wholeheartedly with the person you are communicating with. Allow yourself to become genuinely curious about what they have to say. Remember that you can consider their perspective without having to adopt it as your own. Make learning and understanding your goal. If you are listening effectively, you may find yourself discovering meaningful insights you didn’t previously have. Practice active, engaged quietude. If you are interrupting... if you are planning what you are going to say next... if you are arguing in your mind... if you are talking... if you are rolling your eyes, huffing, shaking your head... you are not listening. Give the other person the floor completely. Quiet your mind. Focus on honestly hearing and understanding what they are trying to communicate. Be fully present with them and their experience. Be kind. Remember - whoever you are listening to wants to be seen, heard, honoured, and respected – just like you. Whatever their position, they are committed to it just as strongly as you are to yours, and with reasons just as good. Be the type of listener you wish others would be for you. Ask yourself “If I was speaking, what would make me feel heard?” Then, do that. “For a word to be spoken, there must be silence. Before, and after.” - Ursula K. Le Guin Want to learn more? Visit www.TeronWolf.com
THE FISHBOWL is brought to you by publisher Genevieve Price along with the following local columnists & sponsors. Salt Spring Island’s #1 Source for Arts, Entertainment & Culture. Check out our Facebook and Twitter pages.
NINTH ANNUAL
scrabble FUNDRAISER
In support of the Stephen Lewis Foundation, the Salt Spring Grand(m)others to Grandmothers Group is sponsoring their Ninth Annual Scrabble Fundraiser in March to help turn the tide of HIV/AIDS in Africa. Recreational and competitive Scrabble Players are invited to participate in a week long series of games at the Salt Spring Inn (March 8 & 10) with final games and Silent Auction at Penny’s on the Green at the Salt Spring Golf Course (March 12). There are several ways to play and donate—get pledges, pay to play at event venues, or donate on-line under our Team Name, Salt Spring Scrabble for Africa at www.grandmotherscampaignpledges.ca. You could even invite some friends in for a private event. Charitable tax receipts are available. We are very proud that since 2009 our community has helped the Grand(m)others raise over $113,000 to support the needs of African grandmothers and the orphaned children in their care. In 15 sub-Saharan countries, over 300 projects funded by the 200 plus groups of the Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign provides funds for food, school fees and uniforms, income generating projects, counselling and social support, and rebuilding their communities. And while strides have been made in combatting HIV/ AIDS, with 1.5 million new cases reported in 2013 we cannot become complacent as AIDS is still a global pandemic. In Africa 25 million have HIV with only one third receiving treatment and over 15 million children have lost one or both parents to AIDS. Grassroots organizations like those supported by the Grandmothers Campaign continue to be at the heart of the response to the far reaching effects of HIV/AIDS. Salt Spring Grand(m)others to Grandmothers always welcomes new members of whatever gender which explains those brackets! Info at: 250-537-0675 or 250-537-0284
cOLUMNISTS: John Bateman • Dorothy Price GREEN PRINTING & LAYOUT: IMAGINE THAT GRAPHICS.CA Peter Vincent • Dr. Patrick Callas • Marsha Moreau aD sALES: Deadlines are the 10th of the month Lisa Sigurgeirson Maxx • Sean Patrick Hogan previous to book ad space & submit content. Melinda Parks-Divers • Matt O’Connor • Ken Brudner Calendar events can be submitted up until the 17th. sponsors: Dorothy teaches classes & retreats locally & worldwide. Dorothy classestoday & retreats worldwide. Pharmasave • Barb’s Bakery & Bistro • Hawthorne Hill teaches Call Genevieve at 250 538locally 8427 or&email Visit www.santosha-yoga-retreats.com or phone 250.653.4655 Gravel Sales • Valcourt & Sons Roofing • John Lefebvre thesaltyfishbowl@hotmail.com for rates250.537.7675 & information. Visit www.santosha-yoga-retreats.com or phone
2013 SMALL BUSINESS of the YEAR!
at Salt Spring Gallery
NINTH ANNUAL
scrabble FUNDRAISER
y s Ea
March 8, 10 & 12 Salt Spring Inn March 8, 2-4pm & March 10, 2-4pm Penny’s Pantry on the Green at SS Golf Course March 12, 6-9pm with Silent Auction
t e e Str
Evening at the Legion Members free guests $5.00 Leg io ope n kitch n6 pm en unti l 9:p m
in support of
Turning the Tide of HIV/AIDS in Africa
Saturday, March 19th, 7:pm to 10pm
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