November 2019 - FISSUE #135 2019 MARKS 10 YEARS OF FREE & EASY SALT SPRING ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURE
SSNAP WINNER
r e h t Lu du Kona Photograph titled Figure as Index
Dr. Hannah Webb N.D.
Alzheimer’s Disease • 5 November Events Calendar
STUFF to DO on the ROCK • 9 Read us online at www.fishbowlmagazine.com email us today at thesaltyfishbowl@hotmail.com
Christmas on Salt Spring • 13
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On Our Cover
SSNAP Winner
Luther Konadu Winners announced for SSNAP, Parallel Art Show and SSNAP Youth Art Exhibition with $39,000 in prize money awarded by Deirdre Rowland The Salt Spring National Art Prize (SSNAP) has awarded the Salt Spring Prize – The Joan McConnell Award toemerging artist Luther Konadu… “Really, it’s the art that keeps me alive,” that’s according to 93-year old Joan McConnell, the elder patron of the Salt Spring National Art Prize who announced the Salt Spring Prize winner at a gala awards night in front of a packed house at Stuff n things. Mahon Hall on October 19. The winner, at the other end of the age spectrum, is 28-year old artist Luther Konadu, whose photograph, Figure as Index, captured the jury and held their attention in a way one juror described as “a slow burn.” Hailing from Winnipeg, Konadu receives $15,000 and a Salt SpringIsland artist residency of $5,000. Konadu expressed winning this way, “Genuinely shook! It caught me off guard. It never crossed my mind that it could be me out of the 50 plus finalists. I honestly checked out after I shipped my work for the exhibition. I knew I couldn't attend and I thought there was a lot of great work being shown. So I didn't even bother having any hopes of winning.” Salt Spring artist Carol Narod received the Salt Spring Artists Award for her work called, Married and single. Narod says her work is a combination of needlepoint, embroidery, crewelwork, ersatz weaving and playing with yarn, “I like to make textures, and invite the viewer to touch them. I want to evoke warm and fuzzy.” At ArtSpring, the Parallel Art Show featured 50 Southern Gulf Island artists who submitted their work to SSNAP, offering an opportunity to see local works running parallel to the national exhibition. Viewers’ Choice winnersincluded two Salt Spring artists, Karin Millson for Ledger of Thoughts and Donna Hall for Wanderers. The Salt Spring Gallery hosted the SSNAP Youth Art Exhibition, an inaugural juried exhibit of work created by Southern Gulf Island youth, ages 13 to 18. The Youth Show saw Sam Holmes take home a Jury Award and People’s Choice for his work titled, Ram. Other winners included,Jury Award winners Mac Flett for The Angry Anarchist and Rose Hermann for Work in Progress. People’s Choice winners included Ruby Egger-Lipsett for Nouveau and Anju Otsu for Eye-land.
FISHBOWL
Scopes Brought to you by our own in-house astrologer who now goes by her numerologically correct name of “Ya Righta.”
^ Aries:
This morning will be full of fun and sunshine but that’s it for the month. Just rain, rain, rain.
_ Taurus:
Your horoscope is about as accurate as the weather report might be.
` Gemini:
We see unsettled relationships at home as cheating is going to occur within the next day. It could, actually, just be in a game of cards or monopoly.
a Cancer:
Today is not your lucky day. It's tomorrow instead! So that's something to look forward to.
b Leo:
You may find love in unexpected places, however, it is equally likely that you'll find ripe avocados when you want guacamole…
c virgo:
You may hear good news today from an excitable old lady who may turn out to be experimenting with edibles.
d Libra:
This week will see the start of such bizarre occurrences. It might have something to do with Salt Springs senior population getting into edibles?
e Scorpio:
It's a hard life being an astrologer and trying to see exactly what's going to happen to YOU. Specifically, You. Sorry.
f Sagittarius: You are easily replaced - don't take your coat off.
g Capricorn: Now that your lover has started wearing more clothes to bed than to work, it's a good guess that your happiness is close to being over.
h Aquarius:
You will overhear gossip today whilst you are sat on the toilet at Moby’s.
i Pisces:
Mouldy coffee cups everywhere you turn may force you to tell Travis you need Fridays off.
Salt Spring Island’s #1 Source for Arts, Entertainment & Culture. cOLUMNISTS: Lisa Sigurgeirson Maxx aD sALES: Deadlines are the 10th of the month Check out our Facebook page! John Bateman • Dorothy Price • Dr. Hannah Webb previous to book ad space & submit content. THE FISHBOWL is brought to you by publisher Genevieve Price Dr. Ralph Miller • Mishka Campbell Calendar events can be submitted up until the 15th. along with the following columnists. Occasional Contributors: Dorothy teacheslocal classes & retreats locally & worldwide. Dorothy teaches classes today & retreats locally Melinda Parks-Divers • Lis Bell Walton Call Genevieve at 250 538 8427&orworldwide. email Visit www.santosha-yoga-retreats.com or phone 250.653.4655 Visit www.santosha-yoga-retreats.com or phone 250.537.7675 GREEN PRINTING & LAYOUT: IMAGINE THAT GRAPHICS.CA thesaltyfishbowl@hotmail.com for rates & information.
2013 SMALL BUSINESS of the YEAR!
Price is Right
WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT //
AWARDS LIST
SALT SPRING PRIZE - THE JOAN McCONNELL AWARD + RESIDENCY FOR OUTSTANDING WORK $20,000 ($15,000 and a $5,000 Salt Spring Island artist residency) Luther Konadu, Winnipeg, MB “Figure as Index”
PRODUCT REVIEWS
by: Genevieve Price Sponsored by
Danielle Creations Pore Cleansing Brush I love these brushes! They are way gentler than an exfoliating scrub which can actually damage your skin if overused or not use correctly. The silky soft Pore Cleansing Brush gently lifts dirt and oil out of your pores with just gentle circular motions and warm water, use with or without your favourite cleanser. It’s great for getting along your jaw bone and around your nose as it has literally thousands of tiny bristles moving every which way. The only downside I see is it is a single use plastic so keep it clean and dry when you are not using to get the maximum life out of it possible.
JURORS’ CHOICE AWARDS (Three awards of $3,000 selected by each juror) Kaley Flowers, Toronto, ON for “<esc><esc><esc>” via Juror: Sandra Meigs Audie Murray, Victoria, BC for “for hambone, metis billy stick” via Juror: David Balzer Skawennati, Montreal, QC for “Intergalactic Empowerment Wampum Belt (Xenomorph, Onkwehón:we, Na’vi, Twi’lek, E.T.)” via Juror: cheyanne turions PEOPLE'S CHOICE - ROSEMARIA BEHNCKE AWARDS (Three awards determined by a vote of visitors to the exhibition) 1st prize - $3,000, 2nd prize - $2,000, 3rd prize - $1,000 Adult category: Tony Luciano, Durham, ON for “Port-Kent” 1st place Steven Volpe, Orangeville, ON for “Winter Gathering” 2nd place Tim Alfred, Port Hardy, BC for “Blue moon mask” 3rd place Youth category: 1st place – Erika Dueck, St. Pierre, MB for “The Sanctuary” - $1,000 SALT SPRING ARTISTS AWARD (For outstanding work by a Salt Spring Artist - $2,000) Carol Narod, Salt Spring Island, BC for “Married and single” SALT SPRING ISLAND PAINTERS GUILD AWARD (For outstanding two dimensional painted artwork - $1,000) Atefeh Baradaran, Vancouver, BC for “Untitled (Hinged Take Off)” PARALLEL ART SHOW Vote in the 'Viewers’ Choice Awards' (Three prizes of $800, $550 and $300) 1st place $800 – Jim Holyoak for “The Mountain Knows Your Name” 2nd place $500 – Karin Millson for “Ledger of Thoughts” 3rd place $300 – Donna Hall for “Wanderers” YOUTH SHOW Jury Award: Ronald T. Crawford, Richard Steel and Cheryl Long 1st place – Sam Holmes “Ram” 2nd place – Mac Flett “The Angry Anarchist” 3rd place – Rose Hermann “Work in Progress” Peoples Choice: 1st place – Ruby Egger-Lipsett for “Nouveau” 2nd place – Anju Otsu for “Eye-land” 3rd place – Sam Holmes “Ram”
John Gogo Health with
T H E F I S H B O W L - N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 9 • PA G E F I V E
Thursday, November 21st at 7:30 pm at Mahon Hall
Some Salt Spring Islanders will recall John Gogo from his early performing days, when he played regularly at the Fulford and Vesuvius Pubs. “Haha, OK the 80’s were a long time ago!” said Gogo recently, “But I did finally make it back over here to play at last year’s Gumboot Gala with Valdy & Bill Henderson.” To fill in some of the blanks over the last 3 decades, Gogo has released five albums and has played well over 1000 shows. He was co-creator and performer for nearly 5 years of touring in the theatrical production ‘Good Timber - Songs & Stories of the Western Logger’. He jokes that he may have been type cast, as he did spend the first two years of his working life in a logging camp. John Gogo’s music, life experiences and interest in history all lead to the creation of his new work, ‘John Gogo - Coal & Wood Show’ which he will be performing at Mahon Hall, Thursday, November 21st at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $15 at the door. This engaging one-man show written and performed by John Gogo revisits the gritty mining and logging towns of Vancouver Island on Canada’s rugged western coast. Haunting folk tales told by four generations of a Nanaimo pioneer family offer a fascinating look beneath the surface of history unfolded from 1895 to 1995. Their songs explore the unique and layered lives of heroes and villains: the visionary Finns of Sointula, the notorious Dunsmuirs, labour martyr Ginger Goodwin, the ghost of Clarence Ballance and the infamous Brother XII of De Courcy Island. www.JohnGogo.com
Caleb Hart & The Royal Youths On Salt Spring Island at Beaver Point Hall w/ guests Morien Jones Trio - November 22nd 2019.
Destined to reunite after their 2018 hiatus, Caleb Hart & The Royal Youths are back to take BC by storm this November after rockin’ the main stages of over half a dozen festivals this past summer! This multi award winning array of talented musicians are geared up and ready to bring the unique stylings of their soulful funky reggae sound to the Beaver Point Hall stage to get you groovin’ on the dance floor.
Caleb's new album '11' ft. Track7 wracked up over 100,000 Spotify streams in the first 3 days of it's September 2019 release. Be prepared to hear some of the new tunes, mixed with the old, as well as a few special classics that will have you all singing along. For more info on Caleb: www.iamcalebhart.com/epk
Hannah
Preventing and Even Reversing Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s disease is a common neurodegenerative condition that causes changes to memory, thinking, and behavior. The medical community used to believe this condition was progressive and irreversible. However recent groundbreaking research in the US led by Dr. Dale Bredesen MD has shown that it is possible to prevent, slow, and even reverse Alzheimer’s dementia. According to Dr. Bredesen, the amyloid plaques that are found in the brain with Alzheimer’s disease are actually protective to the brain. They are deposited when the brain is experiencing damage. There is research showing that amyloid plaques are antimicrobial, that they bind divalent metals (copper, zinc, iron), and also that they are produced in response to a reduction in trophic support (i.e. the nutrients and hormones that support and feed a healthy brain). The downside of this protective mechanism is that parts of the brain are sequestered and this downsizes the brain’s network and overall cognitive capacity. The causes of the damage to the brain are multi-factorial, and accumulate over a lifetime. We can stratify patients into groups depending on the primary cause of their condition. There is an “inflammatory” subtype that may be related to due to chronic systemic inflammation, chronic infections, leaky gut, among other causes. There is a “glycotoxic” subtype, which is due to insulin resistance and oxidative damage caused by high levels of glucose in the blood (you may be familiar with the suggestion that Alzheimer’s is “type 3 diabetes”). There is also an “atrophic” subtype, where the brain is not receiving the support it needs. This could include insufficient thyroid hormone, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, insulin, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and more. Lastly, there is a “toxicityassociated” subtype that is primarily due to heavy metal toxicity in the brain. Of course, for any particular patient there are typically many predisposing factors. As such, a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease must be multi-pronged, and this is what Dr. Bredesen is showing in his research. His approach is similar to that of a naturopathic doctor: diet and lifestyle support, and a comprehensive and personalized program to address a patients individual risk factors. Treatment starts with the basics: assessing labs, addressing nutrient deficiencies, establishing healthy diet to balance blood sugar, and ensuring proper sleep to allow the brain to regenerate. From there we move into balancing hormones (thyroid hormones and sex hormones). We test for heavy metals and do a heavy metal detox if necessary. We do a gut healing protocol and address inflammation. We support mitochondrial health. We test for chronic infections and if that is a component we address that as well. The treatment is comprehensive and completely personalized. And it is a process – the damage that causes Alzheimer’s takes a lifetime to accumulate, and takes years to heal. If you would like to read more, Bredesen has a great book called “The End of Alzheimer’s”. If you would like to work with a doctor to create a protocol that is personalized to you, I invite you to contact me – I would love to work with you. Hannah will be doing a free talk about Alzheimer's dementia on Saturday Nov 16th at 11am at her clinic, 130 McPhillips Ave. By Dr. Hannah Webb, ND drhannahwebb.com 250-999-9371
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This November the
Salt Spring Abattoir Turns Seven! Adham Shaikh with Buckman Coe Saturday, November 16 @ Fulford Hall, Doors open 9 pm, $20 live electro funk dub soul ska with brass and everything featuring Buckman Coe and Adham Shaikh with Harvey Paris and iIminah Kani (opening set of flamenco guitar). There will be a small celebration of Yasmine Amal and Katya Mycyk. Two stellar ladies who left the island last year Adham Shaikh is a Emmy and Juno Award-nominated music producer, composer, sound designer, and DJ who brings his uniquely powerful global sounds to the world stage and screen, not to mention many a crowded dance floor.
Shadow Show
Join us Saturday, November 9th from 5:30 pm at Fulford Hall for an evening of good food and good cheer! Enjoy an all local dinner menu featuring pork, turkey, and vegetarian options, and a spread of desserts prepared by Sweetgrass Food Co. We'll have live music, a cash bar with locally produced beverages and live and silent auctions. Bid on services from local tradespeople, art, produce, various goods and much more! We hope you'll join us for an evening of fun and fundraising! Tickets are $65 and are now available atwww.plantofarm.org and Salt Spring Books. For questions, volunteer opportunities, or to donate to our silent auction please email Ella at ebronstein93@gmail.com
BARNEY BENTALL & THE CARIBOO EXPRESS Runs through November 13 at Salt Spring Gallery “We find beauty not in the thing itself but in the patterns of shadows, the light and the darkness, that one thing against another creates.” In Praise of Shadows, Junichiro Tanizaki.
Shadows, as an important visual element, have always been part of my work. From the first lamps I made that cast their shadows up and out, patterning ceilings, walls, and floors to the work of this exhibit I have been intrigued by shadows, their beauty and their impermanence. In Shadow Show materials were chosen specifically for their ability to create shadows-a line becomes a shape becomes a shadow. The shadows created are as important to the work as the work itself, the shadow becomes the work. One is offered a new perspective, another way of seeing, another visual layer with the creation of shadows. The way an object appears and the way it appears in the shadow object are two perceptions, different yet similar, a dialogue between the real and the ephemeral, a way to truly see the work. Melanie Thompson 2019
On November 18, Barney Bentall brings his stellar showcase of performers to the Salt Spring Folk Club’s presentation, at the Fulford Hall. The cast includes along with Barney Bentall; Kirby Barber, Dustin Bentall, Ridley Bent, Wendy Bird, Stephanie Cadman, Matt Masters, Leeroy Stagger and the Gold Rush Allstars with Special Guests. This will be one of many stops on the western Canadian tour that is raising money for food banks in many Canadian locations. The Cariboo Express is a highly entertaining, one-of-kind variety show hosted by Canadian music icon Barney Bentall and includes some of Canada’s finest roots and country musicians. It is all about laughter, storytelling and the timeless sound of contemporary songwriters with great respect for tradition. The show is a heartfelt set of roots, folk and rock favourites. Not only that, but the mandate of the Cariboo Express on this night to raise funds for the Salt Spring Food Bank. The Salt Spring Food Bank relies entirely on community donations of food and cash and a dedicated group of volunteers so this fundraiser is timely to stock up for the Christmas food hamper program. The Cariboo Express has become a sought-after event across western Canada that makes a significant impact on each community it touches with both its fundraising model and highly engaging show. What better way to spend a Monday night in November than at a show that is not just an incredibly enjoyable favourite for all ages, but one that makes a difference in the community too. Donations are matched by the Bentall Family’s Hawthorne Foundation and are eligible for a tax receipt and can be made that night to support the food bank. Show starts at 7 pm and doors open at 6:15 Advance tickets at SS Books are $25 / $30 at the door. Catering by Three Blind Mice
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Every Dec. 6, Canadians recognize the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. Join in community to renew our strength, honour the lives of women and hope for more inclusive and peaceful communities.
December 6th Memorial Ceremony Friday December 6th, 2019 Centennial Park, 5:00pm In Memory Of Geneviève Bergeron Maryse Laganière Hélène Colgan Maryse Leclair Nathalie Croteau Anne-Marie Lemay Barbara Daigneault Sonia Pelletier Anne-Marie Edward Michèle Richard Maud Haviernick Annie St-Arneault Barbara Klucznik-Widjewicz Annie Turcotte
Giant Book & Jewellery Sale Gala Dinner November 14th, Harbour House Hotel
Nominations were held at saltspringchamber.com between September 12 and October 2, 2019, yielding a record breaking number of nominations. Over 475 entries were received for 20 Business award categories, with a total of 1055 unique nominations received. For the 9 Community awards, we received 213 entries for a total of 339 unique nominations. It appears that excellence is abundant on Salt Spring, with 58 nominations for young entrepreneurs, and over 60 nominations for our new category for entrepreneurs over 40 ! Ninety‐eight businesses were nominated for excellent customer service and 109 nominations were received for Greatest Tradesperson. 45 restaurants and food trucks were nominated, along with almost one hundred favourite menu items. There are over 60 businesses to choose from for Greatest Business over all. For the third year in a row, nominations abound for the Community Salty Awards, with over 40 servers recognized as "extraordinary", 62 people nominated for "going the extra mile" and 47 people recognized as top volunteers. The Salty Awards will be presented at a Gala Dinner on November 14th at the Harbour House Hotel. The Salty Awards are presented by Windsor Plywood in partnership with the Salt Spring Exchange and the Salt Spring Island Chamber of Commerce. For further information, please contact the Chamber office.
Fri, Sat & Sun, Nov 15, 16 & 17 10 am to 4 pm on Friday & Saturday 10 am to 2 pm on Sunday Salt Spring Farmers’ Institute Salt Spring Literacy’s legendary Giant Book & Jewellery Sale returns! The 13th annual book sale and fifth annual jewellery sale runs at the Salt Spring Farmers’ Institute on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 16, 17 and 18 from 10am to 4pm on the Friday and Saturday and from 10am to 2pm on the Sunday. The Farmers’ Institute hall will once again be filled with great-quality mostly used and ultra-affordable books and jewellery pieces. Salt Spring Literacy is grateful to the Rotary Club of Salt Spring Island for major sponsorship support. A preview night with wine and appys is also held for Salt Spring Literacy Society members on Thursday, Nov. 14 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. People can peruse the books and jewellery and purchase their two favourites from each side. Memberships can be purchased at the door for $10, or avoid the line-up at the door and get yours in advance from the Salt Spring Literacy office at 125B Rainbow Rd. Proceeds from the weekend sale help Salt Spring Literacy deliver A Fundraiser for its free programs that range from tutoring for adults, including ESL students and those who need assistance with computers, phones and tablets, to helping children grow their reading skills. See www.saltspringliteracy.org for more information about Salt Spring Literacy’s programs.
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Saltspring Community Theatre proudly presents:
OLEANNA By David Mamet
Directed by Damian Inwood Starring Metta Mcnairn & Dave French Mahon Hall - November 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16 at 7:30 pm, with a 2 pm matinee on November 10. Tickets are $20, and will be available at Mondo Trading. Oleanna, a two character play by David Mamet, is about power and class struggles, sexual politics, political correctness, social dynamics and personal interpretations. The play is written in a way that puts the onus on the audience to decide for themselves where the truth lies. The characters each have their strengths and weaknesses, with the balance of power swinging back and forth throughout the play.
Saltspring Community Theatre is also, once again, donating proceeds of one performance to a local group. Last year they chose the Hospice, this year they are joining with SWOVA. **warning ** There is a scene of violence. It is a brief moment, but a very powerful one, that may be disturbing to some people. **warning**
nîpawistamâsowin (pronounced “NEE-pa-wista-MAA-sowin”) A Cree word meaning “we (small group) will stand up for others (large group)” Colten Boushie was a young Cree man of Saskatchewan’s Red Pheasant First Nation. In the late afternoon of August 9, 2016, his friends drove an SUV with a flat tire onto Gerald Stanley’s farm, with Boushie asleep in the back seat. In the ensuing confrontation with the white farmer and his son, Boushie was shot in the back of the head at point-blank range. Charged with second-degree murder, Stanley was acquitted of all charges by an all-white jury, after his defense team successfully rejected all non-white jurors and essentially put the victim on trial. The controversial verdict caused a national outcry and propelled the Boushie family all the way to the United Nations in pursuit of justice for Colten. Now the first featurelength film on this subject is coming to Salt Spring. On November 13, the Salt Spring Film Festival’s “Best of the Fests” monthly film series presents the awardwinning documentary “nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up” at ArtSpring. Director Tasha Hubbard will be in attendance to present the film along with invited Indigenous Elders. An Associate Professor in the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Native Studies, Hubbard’s films include the Gemini Award-winning “Two Worlds Colliding” (2004) and the highly-acclaimed “Birth of a Family” (2017). Hubbard weaves a profoundly personal narrative in her latest film, reflecting on her own adoption into a white family as part of the “Sixties Scoop,” and exploring the challenges of raising a young Indigenous son who must learn to safely navigate a dangerous world. Premiering as the Opening Gala film at Toronto’s Hot Docs Festival in April 2019 – where it was named Best Canadian Documentary – the film has since won numerous awards, including the Audience Award at Manitoba’s Gimli Film Festival and Best Canadian Documentary at Vancouver’s DOXA Film Festival. “The most difficult stories to tell are the ones we most need to hear,” says programmer Alexander Rogalski, who selected the film for Hot Docs. The tragic death of Colten Boushie is a story that must be heard – particularly from an Indigenous perspective – in the difficult but necessary process of decolonization, if Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians are ever to live together without fear. Co-presented by the Stqeeye’ Learning Society (Xwaaqw’um Village), “nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up” screens at ArtSpring at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, November 13. Tickets are $15 and available at the ArtSpring Box Office. For more info, visit www.saltspringfilmfestival.com.
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Salt Spring Has
Issues starring the most awesome John Bateman
If you are reading this and you are a resident of Salt Spring Island, there’s a 9 in 10 chance you list artist as your secondary occupation. That’s why it’s so appropriate that the island has a biannual art competition. If you didn’t get a chance to check out the Salt Spring National Art Prize (SSNAP) show, you missed a mixed bag, which is true of any group show.
The gist of the show is that hundreds of artists submit their work to be judged by a panel of card-carrying art experts. These experts then choose the best art pieces and put them together in a show. Ok, instead of beating around the bush, I’m going to come right out and say it: I do not like art competitions. The SSNAP art competition is especially odd because so many different art disciplines are judged against one another. How does one compare a first nations mask to a conceptual photograph? What makes this more difficult is that the judges come with their own set of standards for what they consider to be good art. It’s similar to holding a vegetable competition and 2 of the three judges don’t like carrots, so the potato wins.
What’s more interesting is that the pieces are all judged blindly, meaning that the judges don’t know who made the art piece they are looking at. That means that literally anyone can submit a piece and win. I suppose that all is fair in this case, but have to say that if I dedicated my life to being a professional artist, I’d be pretty upset if someone swept in, showed the judges what they wanted to see, then headed to Mexico for 3 months on the winnings, never to make another piece of art again. I appreciate all kinds of art and try to extract as much as I can from any piece I look at. Some resonate with me, some don’t. Does that mean that the pieces I don’t like are lesser than the ones do like? Obviously not. Art is an important and vital component of any culture. No one piece is less important than the other. Their value is determined strictly in the eye of the beholder. But the idea of giving money to one artist over another one seems ridiculous. I know this form of art competition is common around the world, but that doesn’t mean I have to like it.
What’s even more unpalatable in my mind is that there’s a youth exhibition that runs at the same time. This exhibition is also judged. Young people should be allowed to make art and have it shown without being disappointed or discouraged by not coming first, second or third. I’ve seen first hand that kids know what a first place ribbon is compared to the participant ribbon.
I enjoyed many of the pieces in the SSNAP show and think it’s a valuable exhibition which features great talent and diversity. However, considering the way art is created and interpreted, it would make just as much sense to draw the winners randomly.
Lisa Sigurgeirson Maxx, ECE
Nurturing, empowering & educating families for over 30 years *amma = grandmother in Icelandic
Action for Climate Change Climate change. The topic of the day. As I sit to write this, we are in the midst of the week dedicated to rallies and strikes, marches and demonstrations around the world. As well as attending these marches and rallies as a family there are many simple things we can do as Advocates for the Earth. One of the obvious changes we need to embrace is to become super conscious of the amount of plastic we purchase and bring home. Every plastic toy will end up in a landfill. Every. Single. One. And plastic doesn’t go away. Ever. Sure there are ways that have been developed in recent years to re-use it. But the repurposing of all that plastic creates more C02 pollutants in the process. And, those re-useable shopping bags? They are plastic. And that cozy, soft “fleece?” Plastic. It doesn’t ever leave the planet. Ever. Like, never. So, I will humbly suggest that we all think very purposefully about every plastic toy/game/lunch box – anything - we purchase. Do we need it? Really? Are there alternatives? Yes. In most cases there are alternatives nowadays. They will likely be more expensive, true. But please do not let the cost deter you from making the choice to buy wooden toys or metal lunch containers, for example, instead of the “less expensive” plastic options. We need to think in much longer terms. We need to look at the bigger picture. What is the “real cost” – not just the immediate, financial one? Now, let’s look around the house for daily life practices that may seem insignificant but if every household was adopting these lifestyle changes it would actually make a significant difference for our energy consumption, and so, a difference for the overall climate change problem. Children – and adults – of all ages can learn these simple, common sense habits. Switch off. Switch off lights when you leave a room. Unplug. Every appliance or device that is plugged into a wall socket is drawing energy to it, whether the appliance or device is in use or not. Beware the Vampire Energy Suckers - AKA Phantom Power Drains. These are your cell phones, tablets and computers and their chargers, your TV’s, your coffee makers and microwaves, your computer monitors and printers. They suck energy 24/7. Use power bars that everything can be plugged into and that have an on/off switch so you can turn off the whole bar when those devices/appliances are not needed. Turn off. Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth. Take shorter showers. Open windows and use fans instead of air-conditioning. Wear sweaters instead of turning the heat up. Get outside. Giving children opportunities – daily! - to explore and experience Nature, builds in them a foundational connection to the natural world. Which will develop in them a life-long desire to care for it. Daily outside free play and exploration time in Nature is, in itself, action for climate change, for herein lies the creation of the future Stewards of the Earth. Send your parenting questions to: singingamma@gmail.com or www.facebook.com/thesingingamma Visit: www.thesingingamma.com
Mishka s ’
Book
Reviews with Mishka Campbell
The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo
All my holds are suddenly available at the library and I feel as though I’m running a reading marathon. This plethora of good reads has made it challenging to choose the right one to review. I wouldn’t say “The Most Fun We Ever Had”, was my favourite recent read, (Blake Crouch and Stephen King- I’m looking at you two) but it definitely leaves the most room for discussion. Sometimes the books that you love but aren’t 100% sold on can linger in your consciousness the longest. This book, a debut, is an epic read about relationships, secrets and love. It always seems to be about love at the core of every book about dysfunctional families. Marilyn and David Sorenson have four adult daughters; Wendy, who has experienced crippling loss and downs enough wine to keep her sarcastic, numb and upright; Violet, who has kept a painful secret from most of her family for years, now must face it both coming to light and threatening to topple her tightly wound “perfect” life; Liza, who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant by her seriously depressed partner and is finding success in her career but is struggling with whether all this is truly what she wants; Grace, the baby, who has moved away from the rest of the family and finds herself trapped in a mess of lies when she can’t admit to them that she didn’t really get into to law school and spends every day feeling like a colossal failure. Did that grab your attention? No? The truth is it didn’t grab me either, until I started to actually read it. Every word is carefully and lovingly chosen. The relationships are meticulously rendered. The dialogue and emotions so nuanced and authentic; this novel was a joy to read. In it we explore the drama of the present but also delve back into the early days of Marilyn and David’s marriage, how their love(so powerful yet overwhelmingly so)has shaped their daughters’ lives, for better or for worse. We grow up alongside the girls themselves and gain insight into how they’ve become the hot messes they are today. Even though this book is slow moving in parts and is also at least a hundred pages too long, you don’t feel resentful. Just like family, you learn to accept and love it, as is, flaws and all.
T H E F I S H B O W L - N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 9 • PA G E E L E V E N
Salty Awards By now, the voting for the Salty Awards has finished and we are prepping for the Awards Gala on November 14th, but as I write this, the nominations have just closed and voting has opened. This year’s nominations took a significant leap from any previous years with 58 nominations for young entrepreneurs, and over 60 nominations for our new category for entrepreneurs over 40! Ninety‐eight businesses were nominated for excellent customer service and 45 restaurants and food trucks were nominated, along Jessica Harkema, Executive Director with almost one hundred favourite of the Chamber of Commerce menu items. There are also over 60 businesses to choose from for Greatest Business over all. When I scroll through the nominees, I wish we could give each and every one of them an award, with each as deserving as the next. With every stroke on the scroll ball on my mouse, I nod and think “Do we ever have a talented community!”. The one area that stood out to me in particular was the astounding number of nominations for Greatest Trades Person at 109! The trades on Salt Spring are one of the main economic drivers and largest contributing industries when it comes to the working population. It really goes to show just how big of an impact they have on the community when about 1% of our population was nominated into that category alone! What makes the trades unique is that they often form long-lasting relationships with their customers but are also frequently left unseen in the dayto-day unless you require their services. As such, when we opened up the “online ballots” to start reconciling the nominations, upon seeing the incredible number of nominations in this particular category all we could do was smile and recognize the ever important work that they do, the diverse contributions they provide to our community and the breadth of their reach on Salt Spring Island. Many of these businesses and individuals keep our homes, yards and appliances in good condition, vehicles on the roads, boats afloat on the ocean and work equipment functioning etc. They are also often supporters of our community by volunteering their time and skills, sponsoring local programs and sports teams, and offering long-term yearround employment to many working folk on Salt Spring. When looking at each award, it is important to remember that many of the businesses and individuals nominated have a team behind them and it’s because of that team that they are able to do their best and provide us with top notch products, services and customer service. In turn, when the awards are awarded on November 14th, take a moment to recognize the helpers that made those awards possible for the winners and nominees. For more information about the Awards Gala on November 14th, visit www.saltspringchamber.com
T H E F I S H B O W L - N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 9 • PA G E T W E LV E
The Green Isle Enterprise
PHOTO CREDIT: David Borrowman
Holistic Psychology, Health, Education
With Ralph D. Miller, Ph.D.
Dr. Miller is an internationally recognized scientist, a psychologist & family counselor in the Gulf Islands since the 70’s & taught Holistic Psychology and science in GISS, McMaster University, OL UBC & Camosun College.
Letting Go Forgive the past and let the present to be accept What Is this moment now and set the future free Ah... peace release Will wonders never cease? On The Pond Inverted trees rippling in the breeze dragon flies, curious, dancing twos and threes water buggies skimming o're the surface of the pond passing birds in busy flight and heartfelt song. Sitting quietly, for a moment nothing needs to change nothing needs to stay the same ah...... The Great Perfection Our Earthly Passage From whence we came? Where could we go? What can we ever truly know? Within eternal unity can separation be? Can separate lives exist in Truth within this seamless sea? Can I be separate from you or you from he or she? Or does our true identity embrace all life as We? What was not true is not true now nor shall it ever be. A "Fall from Grace" can not transpire in all eternity. In wholeness does creation sing. Could Essence come or leave? Where could we go when bodies part?
Forgiveness and Understanding With understanding forgiveness comes naturally With forgiveness understanding happens truth is revealed a gentle knowingness takes place Effortlessly Forgiveness and understanding, simultaneous processes, functions of heart and mind one flowing into the other unfolding together Two sides of one coin blending as they merge in simple pure awareness and perfect love Sat chit ananda The boundless wholeness, fullness, joy of Being That is sarupa, our True Nature
What space could we conceive? Then what is life and what is death? What is born and what dies? What is this all embracing force within which forms arise? What is the spark that animates this earthly form I know? that brings the dancer to the dance and causes life to flow? In Spirit does life blossoming forth and when its season’s done it then returns, yet never left its Source, the Holy One. What is the lesson offered here where all forms come and go? To live our lives in fearless love —the Path we need to know.
For additional information: ralph@islandroots.ca
Urchin #1: "That's old Ebenezer Scrooge, that's who!" Ah, the many faces of Ebenezer Scrooge! Yes! He’s coming back to Salt Spring, but this time, get ready for it... he’ll be “treading the boards” of FULFORD HALL! Newman Family Productions will be offering EIGHT performances with limited seating for this special rendition of Charles Dickens’, “A Christmas Carol”. Returning to its roots, Salt Spring Island’s “Christmas with Scrooge” will be re- envisioned in our beloved community hall, through the exciting world of “theatre in the round”! Also called “arena theatre” or “central staging”, this style of theatre is intimate and immersive, allowing each member of the audience a unique experience with the play! Why? Because everyone will see it from different vantage points! As in real life, when we join a conversation on the street, we see people’s backs and sides and expressions up close! If you’re worried, don’t be! Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre shows us that it works! Street lamps will cast their warm glow, a huge Christmas tree will magically light up, and a baby grand piano will ring out familiar carols and the hauntingly beautiful songs by Ray and Virginia Newman, who adapted this story, back in 1971. The cast and crew will transport the audience through time in this beloved Dickens’ tale, drawing them into their office, streets, and homes, including the ghostly visitations of Scrooge’s past, present and future! Arrive early and visit Olde London Towne’s storefronts and characters, while sipping hot apple cider and nibbling tarts, roast chestnuts, potatoes, and candy “Humbugs”! Christmas need not be a humbug. This musical is ultimately a reminder, as Scrooge finds out himself, that social justice is paramount to an equitable and caring society. Yep, the “take home” from this theatrical experience, is to care for one another at ALL times of the year, but especially in this dark and colder season. With that in mind, the island community will be offering up horse and carriage, (well, busses!) to bring folks from Ganges to Fulford Hall, as part of our Inclusivity Campaign! So... mark your calendars for these dates: December, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, at 7pm and December 15 and 22 at 2pm. Ticket prices are $25/adults, and $15/children, and will be CASH and CHEQUES ONLY at Salt Spring Books. This general seating event is generously sponsored by Country Grocer.
wintercraft
Mark Your Calendars!
Open Daily November 29th - December 22nd As the winter version of Artcraft, Wintercraft opens its doors on November 29th, showcasing southern gulf islands Artists' and makers' work designed towards the festive season of giving. Like our summer show, Artcraft, Wintercraft boasts the quality, diversity and originality of our islands talented makers. The mantra of “Beautiful.Local. Unique.” holds very true as visitors find that special gift for the people on their lists.
90 different artists and craftspeople from Salt Spring and the Gulf islands have their work displayed with everything from jewellery, textiles, painting, pottery, basketry to organic beauty products and woodwork. Mahon hall looks magical with seasonal decorations and a cornucopia of creativity. This year we will host an opening event, on November the 29th from 4-7pm where you can enjoy mulled wine, an Arts Council members' discount of 15% on all products as well as a chance to decorate gingerbread or make a snowflake to add to our installation.
Sat Nov 30th, from 9 am - 3 pm SSI United Church
WinterFaire
SSI United Church is once again celebrating the Christmas Season with their annual WinterFaire on Saturday, November 30th from 9 am to 3 pm.
A one-stop Christmas shopping affair at 111 Hereford Avenue! Get into the Christmas spirit! Enjoy the Christmas Cafe featuring coffee, tea and sweets on offer for sale as well as a hot lunch of traditional Tourtiere, while listening to festive Music. Shop Upstairs & Down for Handicrafts, Cash & Carry Treasures, Christmas & Gluten Free Baking, Frozen Soups, Jams, Fruit Cakes, Silent Auction, Winter Greenery, and the Kids-only Shopping area & Fishing Pond! All are welcome!
6th Annual
Festival of Trees November 29 - January 2 All day
The 6th Annual Festival of Trees organized by The Friends of Kenya to thank SSI for supporting Their fundraisers during the year. This year they will be setting up the trees in the front part of Hotel & in their large meeting room on Nov. 29. Every year they have 8-10 trees from various Island organizations and merchants. The trees are to be a visual representative of the organization/business that put them up. People come to see the trees and vote for their favourite tree by leaving a donation to the food bank under it. At 10am on Jan 2 the ladies from Copper Kettle and the Food Bank come and decide which tree has the most donations. The Festival has been VERY successful every year. It helps to re-stock the shelves of the Food Bank and Copper Kettle after the big Christmas rush. The trees can be viewed from 10-8 daily inside Harbour House from Nov 29 to Jan 2.
December 1st
is coming!
8th Annual Chili Cook Off, Carolling and Light Up 4-6PM Gather under the twinkling lights in Centennial Park, sample chili and cast your vote, warm yourself by the toasty fire, sip hot apple cider and sing carols with Viva Choral. Chill will be for sale by our friends at Island Savings with all proceeds benefitting the Salt Spring Island Food Bank.
December 6th
9th Annual Glowtini Contest Location TBA Mixologists from island pubs and eateries face off in an entertaining night of fundraising and catching up with friends. Glowtinis are auctioned off with all proceeds benefiting the Copper Kettle and the Food Bank, helping people in need in the community. Who’s Glowtini will take the title this year? We can’t wait to find out. See you there!
December 12th
Ganges Shop Local Social 4-8PM Join the merchants in Ganges for an evening of late night shopping, special incentives and holiday cheer! Shopping Locally has never been so easy (or fun).
December 6th, 7th & 8th Fulford Hall Christmas Craft Fair 9AM - 5PM Beaver Point Hall Christmas Craft Fair 9AM - 5PM Experience the incredible artisans at our historic Christmas Craft Fairs. Find that special gift for everyone and take in the festive atmosphere and delicious treats all made on Salt Spring. From Soaps and Lotions to fine jewelry, handmade pottery, felted art, beautiful paintings and much more! December 14th Lions Santa Ship 7pm Gather with friends and family on the Coast Guard wharf and watch the Historical Lions Santa Ship arrive, alight with fireworks. Then enjoy a visit with the jolly man himself! Meet Santa at the Dock at 7-7:30pm December 23 Merry Monday in Fulford Village, sing along with Valdy 6:15pm Merry Monday has been a tradition in Fulford Harbour for as long as many 653ers can remember Sing along with Canadian Folk Legend Valdy as he welcomes Christmas to peaceful Fulford Village. Fa la la la la
Grant Lawrence, acclaimed author and broadcaster, brings the
A young Grant Lawrence with the Hermit of Desolation Sound.
Stories and Songs Show to Salt Spring! Fulford Hall, Friday November 15
It was the late, great Stuart McLean, host of The Vinyl Café, who first inspired me to share my stories with a live audience. He was a mentor and a friend, once stuffing me with blueberry crumpets at his home in Kensington Market while giving me all sorts of friendly encouragement. That was ten years ago, when I was first making the move from telling stories on the radio to writing them down in books, and sharing them on stage. I have always loved entertaining an audience, and did so while jumping around on stage singing with my rock band the Smugglers for close to twenty years, but what I really love to do is make people laugh, make people think, and to reflect our unique coastal lifestyle back upon ourselves. That’s what I try to do with Grant Lawrence and Friends: an evening of stories and songs. You could call it a West Coast version of The Vinyl Café. The one big difference between me and the dearly departed McLean is that, despite what anyone may tell you, my stories are true. Many of my true tales are about the human barnacles that have clung to our coastline. Whether it be my own family in Desolation Sound, or the real life characters that we’ve met and befriended along the way, like the Hermit Russell Letawsky, “Cougar” Nancy Crowther, or Bernard the German, “great stories are always retold”, as the Hermit once said. Music is also a huge part of my life. There is something I love about finishing up a story about a nude potluck or a rampaging octopus and following it up by introducing an original live tune by a B.C. singer-songwriter. On Friday November 15 at Fulford Hall, I am blessed to be sharing the stage with three of B.C.’s best, including Salt Spring’s own brilliant young protest singer Luke Wallace; Hey Ocean’s lead singer and golden light Ashleigh Ball; and my very talented wife, Jill Barber, who steps in to replace Jay Malinowki, who was forced to bow out. It didn’t take much to convince Jill to revisit the island jewel of Salt Spring. We hope it won’t take much to share a laugh and a song with you at Fulford Hall on Friday November 15. Proceeds to the Salt Spring Gymnastics Association. Tickets on sale at Salt Spring Books or eventbrite.ca.
Join veterans in Ganges to remember the sacrifices made by thousands of Canadians preceded. Remembrance Day Service at the Cenotaph at 10:45, moment of silence at 11am. The public is then cordially invited to the open house at the Legion following the ceremony for refreshments and entertainment.
Norman Fischer Book Reading:
Alex Cuba
is back on Salt Spring Island touring his new album
“Sublime”
November 5, 2019, 6:30 pm at the Fulford Hall
Tickets $25 Advance and $30 at the door Tickets on sale at Salt Spring Books or by contacting Tania Aguila pichunga@shaw.ca Singer-songwriter, musical visionary and recipient of Latin Grammy and Juno Awards, Alex Cuba is one of the 21st century’s most respected Latin artists. Blending pop, rock, and soul with Latin rhythms and a uniquely melodic touch, Cuba has captured the imaginations of music fans across the globe and worked with a varied cast of pop luminaries, including Nelly Furtado, Ron Sexsmith, and Jason Mraz.
PHOTO CREDIT: Eduardo Rawdriguez
November 7, 7pm at the Lions Club
Sponsored by Saltspring Zen Circle & Salt Spring Books The World Could Be Otherwise New book outlines imaginative approach to spiritual practice in difficult times. About the Author Norman Fischer is a Zen priest, poet, translator, and director of the Everyday Zen Foundation. His numerous books include What Is Zen? Plain Talk for a Beginner’s Mind, Training in Compassion: Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong, and Opening to You: Zen-Inspired Translations of the Psalms.
Come Early to Stroll in Olde London Towne
presents
Newman Family Productions
FULFORD HALL
December 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21 at 7:00 p.m. December 15, 22 at 2:00 p.m.
Tickets at Salt Spring Books $25 Adults, $15 Children cash or cheque
Monday November 18 Fulford Hall
Tickets $25: Salt Spring Books
$30 at the door Door 6:15 (Pass holders 6:00) Show 7:00 Food Bank Fundraiser Catering by Three Blind Mice
Best live sound on the island
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