Quirk January February 2017

nside MAGAZINE

Volume 7 • Issue 1 January - February 2017

CONNECTING

LETHBRIDGE

BRIDGES OF HOPE Bridging the Poverty Gap

HAIDA GWAII Adventures in Kayaking

PASSION FOR THE PASS Country Encounters

VINTAGE VISUALS

BY VEDRES

P. 14

What did you do when you turned 20?

In February, come see what we have planned for our twentieth.

It could involve Janome machines, accessories and fabric.

But you’ll have to wait and see. Don’t miss out.

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TH S SSUE 14 24 26 30 32

Vintage Visuals by Vedres

Thomas Porter shows us there is a place for negativity. It lives in the studio of Jaime

Vedres, an exceptional local photographer who explores the art of black and white

chemical photography

Passion for the Pass

A profile of a Coleman family who have built a unique business serving the pass for

nearly two decades

Haida Gwaii

A group of paddlers discover the unmatched beauty and majesty of Haida Gwaii while

on a kayaking adventure

Book Review: Everlasting Lies

Barbara Warren took an interest in finding out about her family history. Where it led her was “Stranger Than Fiction” and fodder to write her first novel. Barbara’s book has been

very well received and judging by the reviews, will be the first of many more to come

Bridges of Hope

Daniel Zopoula, founder of the organization Bridges of Hope, shares the moving story

of his childhood in Africa and how it led him to work tirelessly to help relieve poverty around the globe

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From The Publisher 2016 is now just a memory as we venture into the new year with hope and what always feels like a fresh start. Even though it’s just the next day on the calendar after December 31, there is a newness about it and a sense of new beginnings.

Volume 7 • Issue 1 • January - February 2017

www.readquirk.com Jean Van Kleek Photo: Thomas Porter

2016 was a tough year in many ways, most of all, politically south of the border.

I know many people were left with an unsettled feeling; how will the election results affect the world, how will our relations with the U.S. change?

It is in uncertain times like these that I’m especially happy to reside in a city like Lethbridge.

Lethbridge has become diverse not only in population, but economically and physically. Our city is all grown up, but along with the changes that entails, our core values remain the same. It is still like a small town with a strong sense of community, support and family. And like family, we sometimes argue about things and have differences of opinion, but at the end of the day we work together to move forward. Lethbridge is solid. Our growth is steady without the highs and lows experienced by “hot” markets. We know what we have, it doesn’t change quickly, and while that may not be exciting to some, I believe most appreciate the stability it brings in an increasingly unstable world.

Lethbridge is the kind of city that provides a sense of “home”. This is something you can’t legislate, or have blueprints for, it’s that “something” that lives in the people. That something that creates the heart of a city.

We look forward continuing to share your stories throughout 2017!

Happy New Year from all of us at Quirk!

ISSN 1929-2112

Published bi-monthly in Lethbridge by

SHABELLA PUBLISHING

1010 - 10th Ave. N., Lethbridge, T1H 1J8 403.382.7240 Printed by Warwick Printing, Lethbridge, AB. Publisher Jean Van Kleek jean@readquirk.com Design & Layout UniVerse Graphics Photographers Chris Yauck Thomas Porter Cover Photo Thomas Porter Writers Thomas Porter Christina Scott Tyler Stewart Ginger Malacko Heather Gunn Chris Yauck Michelle Zandstra Sharry Yaeck Lisa Lambert General Inquiries info@readquirk.com Advertising Inquiries jean@readquirk.com 403.382.7240 LEGAL INFORMATION All information provided in this magazine is accurate and correct to the best of the knowledge of Quirk Magazine and Shabella Publishing, and current at the time of publishing. Quirk Magazine and Shabella Publishing are not responsible and will not be liable for damages whatsoever arising out of or in connection with the use of the information contained herein, or through any unauthorized use or reproduction of such information, even if the publication has been advertised of the possibility of these damages. The information in this magazine applies to Canada oinly and may not be appropriate or correct outside of Canada.

The magazine is not responsible in any way for the content provided by contributing writers and/or advertisers or other third parties who advertise or provide content for this magazine. Unless indicated otherwise, all opinions, advice, information and resources offered or made available in this magazine are solely those of third parties who advertise or provide content for this magazine. This magazine and its content do not necessarily reflect the views of Shabella Publishing or its employees. No endorsement or approval of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services, including those available or offered through this magazine or any websites, is expressed or implied by Shabella Publishing or any related company or its officers and directors. Links to websites of third parties are meant for convenience only. The publisher does not review, endorse, approve or control and is not responsible for any such websites.

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EACH

10

SSUE 8

10 11 20

One Spirit The Style of Being Photography Tips & Tricks /Southern AB Photo Contest Health Matters

35

Pet Photo Contest

38

Lessons I’ve Learned From My Dogs/Dog Recipe

36

11

Adorable Adoptables

New to The Community? Expecting a Baby?

Getting Married? New Business or New Manager?

CALL TODAY

For Your Free Gifts and Information

1-844-299-2466 www.welcomewagon.ca Quirk Quirk -- 7 7

One Spirit

by Heather Gunn

Depression. A barren desert, a landscape devoid of color, an untended garden.

A word that defies definition for the individual who struggles to survive within its hollow, deep shell of existence.

A Case Study: Jenna.

Jenna, a 38 year old mother of 3 healthy kids, has been married for the past 14 years to her childhood sweetheart. Considered among her peers to be a stalwart example of a successful entrepreneur, loving wife, devoted mother and kindly neighbour, she juggles family and professional commitments with seeming ease while managing carpools, deadlines and ceaseless demands upon her time. Her interpersonal skills and ability to connect with others are admirable. Her ability to keep her head above the ever rising tides of life elevates her to near super-human status. To family and friends, she appears to have it all and then some, but Jenna describes her life quite differently.

Despite her apparent successes, Jenna could never shake her persistent feeling of emptiness. In the midst of a whirlwind of activity and busy-ness, she harboured a sense of loneliness and separation. Unable to put her finger on what seemed to be missing, she was left with a chronic ache in her heart… an incomprehensible void, lack of interest and sense of loss. She compares her state to a heart monitor with a flat line. She wasn’t sleeping at night and when she did, she slept fitfully. Interest in her children’s activities faded and her marriage lost its lustre. She felt lost and trapped within the labyrinthine maze of her life. To make matters worse, Jenna struggles with fibromyalgia, migraines, and anxiety, leaving her physically exhausted. She eventually learned to accommodate the stressors and demands of her life by remaining on auto-pilot.

Jenna’s desperate search for happiness through the use of anti-depressants and other symptom-reducing medications proved to be futile. Psychotherapy, counselling, healing retreats, prayer, and meditation fell short of her goal to

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Heather Gunn step out of her deep-seated funk. Sometimes they RN, BSN, MSN would help for a while, like a bandage protecting a wound, but she continued to feel lost in the dark, foreboding forest. Desperate to experience a “normal” life, Jenna decided to try something that doesn’t include more drugs or ongoing, expensive therapy. Following the suggestion of a friend, she decided to try regression hypnotherapy.

Through regression hypnotherapy, Jenna experiences deep relaxation with an opportunity to escape to a comfortable, safe place within her. She connects with a very wise part of her Self, as she journeys into her past in search of the rationale for her discontent. Tapping into the wisdom quietly housed within her, she receives insight as to why she is struggling. Discovering a path that leads her toward healing her body and mending her heart, she is finally able to end the emotional carnage. Jenna has found peace and is now able to move forward in a positive, satisfying and rewarding manner. She is finally able to leave the hurt behind, acknowledging and releasing the things that held her back from fully enjoying the life she has created.

"QHHT - The Truth Be Told"

Heather Gunn, RN, is a Quantum Healing Hypnosis Practitioner (QHHT) and Reiki Master Teacher. Contact Heather to discover how you can heal yourself.

onespiritall@gmail.com www.onespirit.ca 403.894.2622

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by Ginger Malacko

Where’s My Fairy Godmother?

I grew up on Cinderella tales and I admit, I still thrill at the idea of fairy godmothers and magic spells and pumpkins turning into golden carriages. Who doesn’t want all their wishes made true by a mysterious serenading stranger? There is whimsy in a fairy And away wand, a shooting star, a cake topped with candles. she flew…

Whimsy, but no magic. I believe that magic is real, but because a wish that it comes to us in the form of passion, ingenuity, creativity, and other proofs of human ability. As much is an act of as I hate to be the bearer of bad news, there are no fairy regret, while godmothers or wishing stars. But there is something called hope. It resembles wishing in a way, but it does hope is the not rely on intervention by a benevolent stranger with a expectation twinkle in the eye. It only relies on you. A pumpkin can of more. be more than just a pumpkin, but it takes the more ordinary human form of “magic” to make it so.

My young niece struggled to learn to ride a bike. For several weeks she watched in envy as her friends, and even younger cousins, seemed to fly over

the pavement, leaving her standing forlornly in their wake. She wished she could ride. Oh, how she wished it. But the fact was, she was afraid of falling.

And as hard as she wished she might stop being afraid, that dread of skinned knees and elbows kept her, and her bike, sidelined – until that wondrous moment when she stopped wishing she was not afraid, and started hoping she would be brave. And away she flew…because a wish is an act of regret, while hope is the expectation of more. It may seem like a small shift in perception, but to the human heart, it is the thing that causes ripples to become waves.

We are not so fortunate as to live inside a fairytale, like Cinderella…but we are infinitely more powerful than she. We can transform our own pumpkins by expecting change, through our efforts, rather than merely wishing for it.

Hope will fill a room with light, but first someone has to flip the switch.

Someone must speak the words, set the goal, come up with the idea, start the chain reaction. Your life will change when you decide to be that someone. A good brain and a brave heart are the true sources of magic, and the world is absolutely full of pumpkins.

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Sometimes I just want a small camera to use so I bring my pocket sized camera.

SONY-RX100 1/80 sec; f/3.5; ISO 3200

Try taking one photo on automatic to see what exposure the camera will give you. Set the camera on manual at that same exposure and then try using different apertures to obtain what you want. For this image the built in flash didn’t give me the detail I was looking for. I used the flashlight on my cell phone to light the dish.

Morning light is always a great way to capture an image. I like how the buildings are reflecting the sun.

SONY-RX100

1/100 sec; f/9; ISO 100

Canon EOS 5D Mark II 1/400 sec; f/20; ISO 100

I am interested in hearing about a topic that may interest you.

Please send your request to info@chrisyauckphotography.com

“Chief Mountain Sunrise” Photo: Jamey Sprentz Winner: January Photo Contest

HOW TO ENTER: Submit your Lethbridge or surrounding area photo in a jpeg format with a size of 1 MB minimum. The winning photo will be published in the following issue of Quirk Magazine. We have modified the rules this year to include enhanced photos. This is because most photos are enhanced to a degree. The integrity of the photo must be maintained to qualify with no added elements besides what the picture originally contained. Quirk Magazine retains the right to use all photos for promotional purposes.

Entry Deadline January 31, 2017

Email your photos to: info@readquirk.com Quirk - 11

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Quirk - 13

Vintage Visuals

BY VEDRES Photos and story by: Thomas Porter

Vedres shows model Lauren Pitt what the newly developed negative will look like after it is contact printed using an app on his iPhone.

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Jaime Vedres with his Eastman 2D 8x10 camera

“You’re never quite sure what’s going to happen, how things are going to turn out.

Each one’s like opening a present.

It’s exciting… the anticipation and all.”

When you do something creative for a living, it’s sometimes hard to keep the passion for your craft alive. For local photographer Jaime Vedres however, the answer to this problem lies in the dark recesses of his mind…or should I say, recesses the dark recesses of his home built darkroom.

In a small darkroom in his Lethbridge home, Vedres renews his love of photography each day by embracing the origins of the medium itself.

When the 32-year-old commercial photographer isn’t editing electronic images in his digital darkroom, he’s mixing chemicals and printing oldschool images in an actual darkroom across the hall. What he creates are beautiful, one-of-a-kind heirlooms with origins predating any photographer alive today.

“When you’re doing (commercial digital) photography day-in day-out it’s a really nice escape to do something different,” said Vedres. “This is for me. I get to shoot what I want, how I want.

“I like how honest it is, the imperfections, little bits of dust, water marks.

Digital is too perfect sometimes… with chemical photography you can really see the artist’s hand. Those little details show how it was made.”

Photography began as the marriage of two branches of scientific study – optics (physics of light) and chemistry. For centuries, artists used lenses and various other light gathering tools to help them draw more realistic images (ie. the camera obscura, circa 1600 AD) but there was no way to directly record the light reflected from the physical world.

“Riley Epp & Motorcycle, Tintype 2014 - Photo: Jaime Vedres” Quirk - 15

Commercial photography began in earnest in the 1850s with some of the first images being created on chemically-treated plates of copper, tin or glass. The chemicals, when exposed to light, would oxidize and become darker depending on how much light fell on the surface and for how long. This reaction is similar to the way your grandmother’s silverware would tarnish over time, building up a layer of grey black silver-oxide (AG20).

Vedres places a fresh print in the rack for drying

In the method Vedres is exploring currently, the photographer would apply a solution of alcohol and ether (called collodian) to the plate, and then submerge the plate in a solution of Silver Nitrate in complete darkness to make it sensitive to light. The ‘Collodian Positive’ or ‘Ambrotype’ was an early form of chemical photography. It replaced the first-ever chemical photographs, the Daguerreotypes (circa 1840), and preceded the ‘tin-type’ (circa 1860).

In the early days, cameras were little more than a light-safe box with a small hole cut into one side. Light would come through the hole at convergent angles, producing an image on the opposite end that was upside down and backwards. Over time, cameras evolved to incorporate a lens (rather than simply a hole) accompanied by a shutter, to control the length of the exposure. Exposure times were more than just a click like they are today. Sometimes they took as long as a minute requiring subjects to stay incredibly still to avoid blurry images.

In chemical photography, the term ‘exposure’ is the length of time the plate or film is exposed to light coming in through the lens. This can range from a fraction of a second to several hours depending on the subject, the amount of available light and the intended effect. In modern photography, exposure times or ‘shutter speeds’ can be in the thousandths of seconds (like 1/250, 1/ 60, and ¼ of a second) whereas photographs of lightning can take several minutes and images of star trails may take an entire night.

Photographer Jaime Vedres uses his Eastman Kodak 2D camera to photograph model Lauren Pitt.

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“Some of my exposures take 30 seconds,” said Vedres. “Back in the old days, photographers used different things to keep people from moving.

They’d rest people’s heads into a support (mounted to the back of a chair) that allowed them to stay still.

“It’s rare to see photos of children or babies from the tintype era as they typically aren’t able to stay still for long exposures and would result in blurry and ghostly looking exposures.”

In spite of the limitations of the medium, the long exposures and small apertures of early photography made for beautifully deep landscape images. ‘Depth of Field’ as it is referred to in photographic texts describes what is in focus relative to the position of the camera. A shallow depth of field would mean objects in front of or behind the subject (which is in focus) would be out of focus or blurred. A broad depth of field would have everything in focus from the camera to infinity.

The factor determining the Depth of Field in an image is the size of the ‘aperture’ or hole which lets the light into the camera. Many modern cameras allow photographer to adjust the size of the opening to select how much they would like in focus. The size of the aperture is measured in ‘f-Stops’ and are represented by numbers like f2, f4, f5.6, f8, f16 and so on. The number reflects a ratio so the larger the number, the smaller the hole that lets light into the camera.

Although the exposure time was sometimes quite long, the photographer in early days had to work quickly in the other parts of the process.

Everything had to be completed before the sticky collodian mixture began to dry. It was only just a few minutes from the time he poured the chemicals on the plate in his covered wagon to the time the customer was handed the finished product. On the up side, if the image didn’t turn out, the person was often times still there to reshoot.

For those seasoned enough to remember the dank, acetic fragrance of our highschool darkroom, a visit to Vedres’ hidden laboratory is nostalgic. With tanks, trays and tongs at the ready next to the enlarger and countdown clock you feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine.

Photographers agree, there is something romantic about the process of chemical photography – it’s unpredictable and exciting waiting to see what develops in the quiet darkness.

“Absolutely, it’s like Christmas every time,” said Vedres. “You’re never quite sure what’s going to happen, how things are going to turn out. Each one’s like opening a present. It’s exciting… the anticipation and all.”

It was a challenge to learn to make photographs in such an antiquated way, said Vedres, but worth it. There was little technical literature in print and most of those who photographed this way are long-since dead.

He said he was lucky, thanks to the worldwide web, to find a handful of fine art photographers on the same mission of exploration.

Chemicals in Vedres darkroom are very similar to those used in the darkroom at your local highschool - developer, stop and fixative.

The focus of the Eastman 2D is controlled by brass knobs attached to the frame.

“In the method Vedres is exploring currently, the photographer would apply a solution of alcohol and ether (called collodian) to the plate, and then submerge the plate in a solution of Silver Nitrate in complete darkness to make it sensitive to light.”

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“A shallow depth of field would mean objects in front of or behind the subject (which is in focus) would be out of focus or blurred. A broad depth of field would have everything in focus from the camera to infinity.”

Sabrina Vedres next to their 1968 VW bus, Tintype 2014 - Photo: Jaime Vedres

Compass, Tintype 2014 - Photo: Jaime Vedres

“It’s really breathed life back into by work,” said Vedres. “It’s a challenge but I enjoy it. People see the effort and the value of these images in a different way.

They are one-of-a-kind pieces.”

One of Vedres’ favourite cameras to use is a piece of art history in itself. It is a bellows field camera with a cherrywood frame and brass hardware known as the Kodak Eastman No.2-D. Manufactured between 1921 and 1950, this 12-pound 8”x10” camera was a workhorse during the war years. The military version of this camera was called the C-1 Ground Camera. It sold for around $45 originally, a bit of a difference from the Ebay listing offering one online this week for $500.

But Vedres isn’t satisfied with just sourcing old cameras to shoot with, he’s taking the craft to a whole new level and plans to build his own camera. After sourcing a 6-inch lens (weighing nearly 10 pounds) that was originally used in WWII and cold war planes for aerial reconnaissance, he intends to build a camera that will create photos up to 45 inches wide! That’s definiteily going to be considered a large format camera.

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You can build your own simple ‘pinhole’ camera by taking an empty coffee can, punching a very small hole in the centre (bottom) and putting a circle of unexposed photographic paper in the lid at the other end while in a dark room. Covering the hole with your finger, take the can outside, place it down on the ground and take your finger away. Wait somewhere between 30 seconds and a minute, then go develop your image in the darkroom. The resulting images will be a negative image, where light areas will be dark and dark areas will be light. This can be used just like a negative to print a positive later by simply placing a fresh piece of photo paper face down on the initial image then exposing it to light and developing the new image.

Artists around the world have been using all sorts of strange and wonderful objects as pinhole cameras over the years – including

“Phao - Left to Right: Kyle Harmon, Kevin Gnandt, Mike Gnandt, Kurtis Loop, Tintype 2014 - Photo: Jaime Vedres

teapots, Lego, eggs and even their own mouths! Here’s an interesting website to give you some ideas for pinhole camera of your own http://www.diyphotography.net/23-pinhole-cameras-that-you-can-buildat-home/.

Jaime Vedres is a graduate of the University of Lethbridge. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (New Media) with a focus in photography. He is a professional portrait and commercial photographer based in Lethbridge AB. He and his wife Sabrina enjoy the outdoors and hiking with their two golden retrievers. More of his work can be seen at www.JaimeVedres.com or on Facebook at Jaime Vedres Photography.

“I like how honest it is, the imperfections, little bits of dust, water marks.

Digital is too perfect sometimes… with chemical photography you can really see the artist’s hand.

Those little details show how it was made.”

Vedres with a freshly developed paper negative.

This will then be contact printed to create a positive image.

HEALTH MATTERS

Is An Ounce of Prevention Worth a Pound of Cure?

There is an old expression from Benjamin Franklin that an “ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. So this article is, in a way, a reflection of that quote when referring to health.

Here is a list of some simple ways to start off this brand new year. Beginning with your diet and learning to see food as your medicine may be your key to longevity:

Simple detox:

In a healthy person, fasting one day a week allows the digestive system to reset, rejuvenate, and detoxify. It also reduces caloric intake, but not enough to significantly reduce metabolism. Consider fasting (water and juices allowed) for one day a week (or even one day a month) if not contraindicated by illness or weakness to maximize health.

Improve your memory with some healthy habits:

Like our bodies, our minds need exercise and proper nutrition for good health.

Exercise strengthens the heart, increasing blood flow to the brain and ensures brain cells get the nutrition they need. Like unused muscle fibres, neurons in the brain shrink when not in use. The old adage “Use it or lose it” applies to the brain just as it does muscle tissue.

And clean up your diet! That means taking away “bad” foods and adding “good” ones that increase oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Trans fats from most fried foods and fast foods as well as hydrogenated oils are highly inflammatory and this inflammation can be especially damaging to the brain.

Our brains are made of 50% fat, so it is fitting that we must feed them appropriately. Omega-3 fats and coconut oil are excellent options for brain function.

Natural pain relief:

Inflammation is a well-known cause of aches & pains and sore muscles. But did you know inflammation is also a silent contributing factor to diabetes, Alzheimer’s, obesity, and even cancer.

Certain foods contribute to inflammation and should be avoided in our diets.

These foods include: margarine, trans fats, hydrogenated oils, partially hydrogenated oils, white sugar, pasteurized dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol.

Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods in your diet is easy and delicious: wild Atlantic salmon, fresh fruits and vegetables (blueberries, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, etc.), walnuts and flax seeds. Spices such as turmeric and ginger can spice up your foods and reduce inflammation.

Headaches for instance, can be prevented by either making sure you are not magnesium-deficient, increasing water intake, or avoiding headache triggering foods.

Like our bodies, our minds need exercise and proper nutrition for good health.

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For acute and chronic inflammation and pain, supplementation with Turmeric, Serrapeptase (an antiinflammatory enzyme), or other remedies may be required.

Be grateful to your body and skin:

The skin is not only the body’s largest organ for elimination, but it also absorbs many chemicals as well. Check the labels on your personal care products (deodorant, lotions, shampoo, soap) to ensure their safety. Don’t put anything on your body that you wouldn’t feel safe eating. When in doubt, check out the ingredients at www.ewg.org.

The power you hold to prevent heart disease:

Adjusting your diet, reducing stress levels and regularly exercising are fundamental to controlling inflammation and, therefore naturally preventing coronary heart disease.

Magnesium benefits the heart, but despite being one of the most abundant minerals in the body, many Canadians have a magnesium deficiency.

Magnesium is critical for maintaining normal muscle and nerve function, keeping the heart rhythm steady.

Cayenne pepper is a wonderful medicinal food containing heat generating capsaicin. Capsaicin helps keep blood platelets slipping past each other (rather than sticking), and its heat helps soothe inflammation. Capsaicin helps improve circulation, thereby reducing risk for heart attack and stroke. Enjoy your peppers – the hotter the better!

Even a handful of healthy nuts such as almonds or walnuts will satisfy your hunger and help your heart.

Importance of intestinal flora:

Here is a subject that I just can’t say enough about.

What I will say is that probiotics hold the key not just for better health and a stronger immune system, but also for healing digestive issues, mental health illness, and even neurological disorders.

New research is continuing to prove that probiotic benefits and side effects go far beyond what we previously thought.

The secret to restoring your digestive health is all about balancing out the good and bad bacteria in your gut. If you are going to be healthy you MUST consider consuming probiotic-rich foods and supplements daily.

Be your own health advocate:

Diversify your diet and work with your physician to understand why your body became sick in the first place and better yet how to keep it healthy – because I really do think that an ounce of prevention can be worth a pound of cure.

Priscilla Peltier is a natural health care practitioner at Nutter’s who writes on health & nutrition and has a passion for the latest research in natural health and diet.

Priscilla Peltier, C.H., C.N.C., C. Irid., R. BIE Herbalist, Nutrition Consultant, Iridologist, and Registered BIE Practitioner priscilla.eyes@shaw.ca www.eyecuhealthy.com 403.329.3100 (Office)

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POST-HOLIDAY SEASON Detoxification Are you feeling bloated, constipated and just run down? Did you know that 1 – 5 lbs of your current weight could be toxic fecal matter stuck to the intestinal wall and colon causing numerous health conditions? And a further 10 lbs could be held in your muscle tissue and joints.

Your liver is responsible for eliminating excess cholesterol and fat from your blood but can only do this when it is not toxic. Kidney problems are becoming more common every year, mostly due to the consumption of overly processed foods. The kidneys filter our blood of toxins by producing urine.

People are dying with conditions that can be eradicated simply by cleaning the colon and thereby reducing the workload on the liver and kidneys. The American Medical Association journal stated there are over 15,000,000 IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) cases in the U.S. which they say they have no answer for. Probably every North American has issues with the sewer system of our most important organ, the colon.

“Through my 25 years of medical practice and health care…I have come to believe that the cleansing/detoxification process is the missing link in Western nutrition and one of the keys to real healing. I have seen hundreds of patients over the years transform regular or persistent illness into health and greatly improved vitality.”

– Elson M. Haas, M.D. founder and medical director of the Preventive Medical Center of Marin and author of several popular health books.

The colon is the end portion of the human digestive tract and its major functions are to eliminate waste and to conserve water. Waste is the accumulated garbage of impacted feces, dead cells, mucous, parasites, worms, flukes, etc. which pose an eventual problem to health. The material is very toxic and one can experience part of the toxicity in the form of acid reflux, for example. This is simply waste trying to get out the wrong end because the proper area of elimination is blocked. This blockage also means that the body cannot properly use nutrients. Impacted intestines and colon also lowers the metabolism rates and causes unhealthy weight gain.

These poisons enter and circulate in the blood stream, making us feel ill, tired and weak. Common signs include: headaches, backaches, constipation, fatigue, bad breath, body odor, irritability, confusion, skin problems, gas, bloating, diarrhea, sciatic pain, and many other problems which are simply

parasites feeding on bacteria. Remove the bacteria and you will remove the food chain.

When the colon can no longer eliminate these toxins properly, they lodge in fat tissue, joints, arteries, muscles, liver and all other organs. Since the lungs, skin and kidneys also serve to eliminate toxins, if the health of the colon is optimum, the whole body can work together as the well-tuned, balanced work of art it was supposed to be. The human body is able to naturally expel unwanted material on its own, but due to industrialized living the body is exposed to chemicals and toxins that it is unable to flush. Other culprits are: processed foods such as pasteurized milk, processed flour and sugar and food preservatives.

“In the 50 years I’ve spent helping people to overcome illness, disability and disease, it has become crystal clear that poor bowel management lies at the root of most people’s health problems. In treating over 300,000 patients, it is the bowel that invariably has to be cared for first before any effective haling can take place.”

– Dr. Bernard Jensen, D.C., Ph.D., world renowned nutrition expert and author of many popular health books.

There are many excellent products developed specifically to aid in the detoxification of the organs and are available in good Health Stores.

Vibration Training on the VibraFit Trainer is an excellent means of speeding the detoxification process by stimulating the lymphatic system which contains the fluids which bathe every cell in the body to remove toxins and send them to the organs of elimination.

Since the lymphatic system has no natural pump like the blood circulatory system, it can only be stimulated by exercise because it is the peristaltic action of the muscles which forces the lymphatic fluids upwards in the body.

Spending 10 minutes at a time on the VibraFit Trainer is the muscular equivalent of running for an hour so you are doing the lymphatic system a world of good. Drink lots of water to assist the liver and kidneys in their elimination process and you will feel a whole new World of Wellness!

Go to www.HotHealth.ca

for more articles on the benefits of Vibration Training!

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A Passion

FOR THE PASS

by Tyler Stewart

Hillcrest Mine Disaster memorial with Turtle Mountain in the background

The story of the Crowsnest Pass is one of disaster and hardship. The most deadly landslide in Canada buried the town of Frank, killing as many as 90 people when Turtle Mountain let loose in 1903. A decade later, the biggest mine disaster in Canadian history took place, killing 189 workers when an explosion ripped through the Hillcrest mine in 1914. Leith Collieries, one of the most sophisticated and ambitious mining operations conceived in western Canada, collapsed into bankruptcy before it could realize its potential.

Though their trials and tribulations may have been numerous, the people of the area were strengthened by these challenges. Using their cunning and resourcefulness, they developed the area into a thriving little community. Setbacks have continued to challenge them along the way, but they’ve never given up on making the most of their beautiful surroundings.

Enter Dawn and Mark Rigby, long-time restaurant industry veterans who possess the same

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industrious spirit of the coal kings from 100 years ago. From humble beginnings, they’ve built a unique business that has served the Pass for nearly two decades, and passed that spirit along to their children as well.

“I have three rules for cooking - the first is that if I can’t cheat, I’m not playing,” laughs Dawn, tossing a pan full of her signature drunken mushrooms over the gas-fired range, during one of her regularly hosted cooking classes. “The second is that if you give me a recipe, I won’t follow it.”

You could say that this decree also works for the Rigby’s approach to life - making their own rules and following their own path. After meeting at a private Calgary golf course where they worked their way to the top running the restaurant side of things, they decided to set out on their own. During their search for a special place that made sense for their unique approach to life, they found themselves purchasing an old hardware store in Coleman.

“It was a really good excuse to have a really big house,” Dawn laughs.

Mark had grown tired of the restaurant industry, so he began contracting full-time, doing a variety of projects for others while squeezing in renovations at home in between. With the upstairs previously holding

“Though their trials and tribulations may have been numerous, the people of the area were hardened by these challenges.

Using their cunning and resourcefulness, they developed the area into a thriving little community.”

apartments, it slowly morphed into their family home, and eventually, the guesthouse it has now become.

“We started putting things together without a big master plan,” Dawn says. “We just did what felt right with the space.”

Over time, they shaped it into the full-service lodgings now known as Country Encounters Accommodations, featuring four character-rich guest rooms in the original hardware store building, along with common living room, dining room and kitchen areas. And to ensure no guest leaves without being fully relaxed, a hot tub and sauna for melting away your worries. In the past year, they’ve also built another building across the road, with five additional rooms, complete with all the modern conveniences.

While Mark focused on construction, Dawn stuck to cooking - working for a local restaurant when they first moved into town, but soon taking over the catering contract for the local event space. The whole family pitched in, with her three daughters lending a hand to develop their business from a few dozen events a year, to now serving over 100,000 catered meals in 2015.

The kids have also taken on the same entrepreneurial spirit as their parents, with each of them striking out into independent ventures. Her youngest daughter Nicole is involved in helping to run the business as she builds her jewelry-making business, while the middle daughter, Erika Yee Lane Archery in Lethbridge with her husband.

During our visit, we meet her eldest daughter Jen, who guides us on a whirlwind historical tour of the area. It’s a side gig she does to add a local flair and experience for those staying in the accommodations, but she’s more than

Just a few miles down the road, Chinook Lake offers beautiful hikes and scenic camping

qualified to do so, given her history degree and experience working in every interpretive centre the area has to offer.

Ghost stories, mining disasters, rum-running and murder are all relayed with great detail - keeping us on the edge of our seats as she drives us around the local historical sites.

She tells us the story of Julia Makin, whose father escaped the Frank slide disaster, only to be killed in the Hillcrest Mine explosion. “Her mother was in shock, gave birth to her brother the next day, and as fate would have it - a tree fell and destroyed their house,” Jen tells the tale with a steely focus and careful pacing. “Mother buried her husband, had a baby, and lost her home all within two days…and it was snowing in June.”

“The whole family pitched in, with her three daughters lending a hand to develop their business from a few dozen events a year, to now serving over 100,000 catered meals in 2015.”

Though the tragedies may be many, the spirit is strong in Crowsnest Pass. Even in the face of the current gloomy economic forecast, natural beauty abounds and the promise of brighter days is always around the corner.

For the Rigby’s, their new building also contains space for a long-dreamed tapas restaurant for Dawn. Just like everything else, they’re in no rush to get things done letting time take its course and allowing the pieces to slowly fall into place.

“There really isn’t a right and wrong with cooking,” Dawn explains, “it’s the end results that matter.”

The same goes for life itself in this corner of the province.

Forging one’s own path has always been the Alberta way, and continues to bring smiles and satisfaction to those following their hearts amongst the beauty and majesty of the mountains.

Dawn and Nicole Rigby with Anne Tschritter

Country Encounters is located in the heart of historic Coleman, Alberta

A look inside one of the new modern suites Quirk - 25

By Lisa Lambert

It takes more than a day to travel to Gwaii Hanaas National Park, no matter your starting point. But that time is necessary to prepare for the experience of this magical place.

Gwaii Hanaas is the southern part of Haida Gwaii, an archipelago of more than 150 islands about 80km off the coast of BC. The islands, amongst the most isolated in Canada, were formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands. The Gwaii Hanaas National Park Reserve was established in 1993, followed in 2010 by the Gwaii Hanaas National Marine Conservation Area Reserve. Like many travellers to this remote land, we were headed to the oceans to kayak through the Park and Marine Reserve. What we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realize was how much this trip would change us.

In just eight days we grew, both individually and as a team, while we paddled through some of the most beautiful and remote parts of BC. Our little group of eight, organized by High Level Canoes and Kayaks in Lethbridge, knew each other a little and ranged in age from teen to senior. We first flew to Sandspit, BC, a tiny village that houses the airport, a few guesthouses and a couple of restaurants. There are no taxis here so you either rent a car or, as we did, walk the 2.5 km to the cozy guesthouses. After an orientation with our guides about travelling in this sensitive ecosystem

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Photo by Caden Seaforth

we enjoyed one last night in a bed. The next morning we travelled by van over narrow logging roads to a small camp where we loaded a zodiac with our gear and donned nearly every piece of warm clothing and rain gear we had for the 3 hour ocean trip through driving rain. Rain is almost constant in this patch of temperate rainforest.

It was right about this point that I realized that I was the least capable paddler in the group and I had the least experience on an ocean. I brought my fifteen-year old river kayak-loving son with me but had not been in an ocean kayak since I was pregnant with him. Knowing I would not have many more opportunities to travel so intensely with my son, and wanting to see Haida Gwaii, drove me to take on this challenge. But it finally became clear what I was up against. The water and land of overwhelm visitors here. The ocean is endless, the trees are breathtakingly huge, and we were just tiny specks on the landscape.

Photo by Aidan Sweeney

Gwaii Hanaas National Park was established after the Haida people stopped the unsustainable logging practices clearing the giant old growth forests on the islands. After the famous Lyell Island protests of 1985, the federal government and Haida Nation agreed to protect much of the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forest by restricting logging to a few areas and protecting the

“Looking back on that moment, I think that was a turning point. I was no longer just learning to paddle, I was learning to live.”

vast southern island portion with the National Park. The management of the Park is shared between the Haida Nation and the federal government. It is a rather new and unique model of co-management that holds much promise for other sensitive areas.

Not only is the land of Haida Gwaii ecologically sensitive the Park protects a number of significant cultural sites, including Haida villages with ancient totem poles. Our group had planned a number of things we wanted to do: paddle in the open water of Hecate Strait, see as much marine life as we could, see puffins (yes, they are on this coast too), and make it to SGang Gwaay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with totem poles that sits on the exposed southwest corner of the Park. In order to pull off this plan we would have to make good time each day, catch the tides and currents, and work together.

Photo by Aidan Sweeney

hours. The rain was pouring down, as it did almost all the time, but we were excited. This day would prove to be our toughest but, as we set out, we had no idea how tough.

After we’d entered the open water of the Hecate Strait we began to feel the rise and fall of the swell. Our guides told us later that it never went above 3m (so were considered mild) but the combination of the swell, a head wind, and the current made for a tough paddle. I was struggling.

Sarah, one of our guides, leaned over to me, “when the paddling feels tough just keep paddling; don’t stop. Every little bit helps. Even if it Photo by Aidan Sweeney

Our first day’s paddle saw us travel just a few kilometres before we found a beach and forest to camp in. Each of us carried 50L of personal gear including a tent, mat, and sleeping bag. That all had to fit in the back hatch of our 14 foot kayaks. The front hatch was for food. Our guides prepared a menu so that we had just the right amount of food for the eight days, without bringing too much. The food was delicious; we dined, day after day. Very little of the water we travelled through allowed fishing or the collection of other seafood so we carried what we needed.

We collected fresh water when we could. We carried out every bit of what we brought in. This is certainly not a trip to attempt without experienced guides and good camping skills.

On the morning of the second day we made a big decision – we would head around a large land mass and paddle in the Hecate Strait for a few

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Photo by Aidan Sweeney

“When the paddling feels tough just keep paddling; don’t stop.

Every little bit helps.

Even if it feels like you aren’t making progress,

you are.”

feels like you aren’t making progress, you are.” Looking back on that moment, I think that was a turning point. I was no longer just learning to paddle. I was learning to live.

Another mile and we faced our toughest challenge yet. One of the group became seasick. He didn’t see it coming and he wasn’t prepared for how ill he would become; he could not paddle. The strongest paddlers took turns towing him while the rest of us admired their power.

That night, after paddling 16 nautical miles, we landed on a beach. No longer a group of friendly strangers, we were now a strong team and it made all the difference.

For the next few days we would rise just after dawn and prepare breakfast while we packed our gear. We’d paddle for a few hours, break for lunch, paddle again, and break for the day. We paddled through pouring rain and the warmest sun that ever shone. We saw the short-legged black-tailed deer that live on every island and we saw every kind of sea life from the curious, but huge, sea lions to the playful seals. We saw whales from a long distance and we saw so many eagles up close that we stopped calling them out to one another. We were closing in on six days but had seen fewer than a dozen other people.

In the last days of the trip we made the decision to leave at dawn so that we could land on SGang Gwaay early to avoid the strong afternoon winds and tides. On our paddle to the Haida village we passed a tiny island where Tufted

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Puffins (Fratercula cirrhata) nested on the ground. The magic of kayaks is that we were able to paddle alongside the island and get close enough for intimate viewing without Photo by Jack Isaac upsetting the beautiful birds.

After landing on SGang Gwaay we walked a few kilometres to the Haida Watchmen cabin. The twosome we met there lived the summer at the remote village as part of a decades-old program to protect sensitive Haida sites.

One of the Watchmen took us to the village and transported us back hundreds of years with his stories. The poles that remain standing are carved mortuary and memorial poles and are surrounded by the remains of the longhouses from the village.

Before we left the island we walked a few hundred metres to see a cave that the Haida had used hundreds of years before they had built the longhouses at the village.

We all paddled back to camp with a renewed sense of the significance of this place.

A few days later the zodiac collected us for the 180km trip back. We had, as one of the group exclaimed, “paddled through a painting” and our eight days on the water changed us as individuals and as a group.

Every great trip is one that changes you. For me, I learnt that I was a lot weaker, and a lot stronger, than I thought. I needed my team more than I ever knew. And I learnt that “when the paddling feels tough, just keep paddling.”

Photo by Jack Isaac

If you want to kayak in Haida Gwaii:

Photo by Aidan Sweeney

- Choose a reputable company that has experienced guides and a land-based crew, in case of emergency. Plan months in advance because few permits are given to the Park.

- Temperate rainforests demand particular gear for the persistent rain. Resign yourself to being wet but you must avoid getting cold.

- Ocean kayaking is a sport for almost anyone and you do not need to be an athlete.

You do need a good team and excellent guides.

- Do not try to rush a trip to Haida Gwaii. We spent eleven days there and could have spent much more.

- Check out gohaidagwaii.com for some of the best travel information and photos of the islands.

Photo by Aidan Sweeney

Photo by Aidan Sweeney

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gwaii Hanaas National Park was established after the Haida people stopped the unsustainable logging practices clearing the giant old growth forests on the islands.â&#x20AC;?

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Stranger than Fiction: local author Barbara Warren brings history to life with a sizzle Story and Photos by Thomas Porter

Ever wonder about your family history? Barbara Warren did and what she found out was so hot you might need oven mitts to read the book she wrote about it. The local author started digging into her family’s past after her retirement from teaching in 2000. What she unearthed turned into a story of lust longing that has been described as nearly impossible to put down.

Everlasting Lies is the culmination of years of intense genealogical research that has its roots in the United Kingdom during Queen Victoria’s reign. It follows the life and times of Warren’s grandparents Edina Paxton and Charles Vernon through the First World War. This historical fiction has its bones residing in the realm of fact while details, Warren admitted, are the product of creative license.

The main characters meet while Vernon was a border in the Paxton home. At torrid romance led to a pregnancy and marriage for then 15-year-old Edina. The relationship quickly goes downhill and the young mother finds relief when her husband is called to war in France. After being discharged from the British Army for medical reasons, Vernon is reassigned to a mining company in India to act as its manager. Dishonesty and distance do battle with lust and loyalty as the couple take their separate paths until the war is over. Affairs by both parties, on both sides of the world, leave a wake of pain and suffering – as well as some questionable paternity.

Warren started her research in the genealogy department at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The LDS church has a long tradition of documenting genealogy and is a valuable local resource for families, explains Warren.

Although the information she found there was helpful in building a basic framework for her family history, Warren needed more to go on. She engaged online services like www.genealogy.uk and various other sites and began requesting military and hospital records from overseas.

“It was a lot of fun but you really have to like messing about,” said Warren. “It was always exciting to find new pieces of the puzzle.”

As those pieces came together, some of the details of her grandparents’ lives just didn’t fit, said Warren. Records seemed to conflict and stories seemed convoluted. It was only when she started looking at travel dates and birth records did the light go on…

“In 2003 my husband and I wanted to go to England to do some more genealogical research,” said Warren. “It was there when I found out that the grandfather I knew couldn’t have been my mother’s father.”

Suffice it to say, Warren’s family didn’t talk much about the details surrounding her grandparents’ lives during the war years. She knew her grandfather had been a soldier and later a mine manager, and that he had brother and a sister.

Following her research however, Warren wasn’t

“What she unearthed turned into a story of lust longing that has been described as nearly impossible to put down.”

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“Warren said she didn’t initially set out to write a book, but the paper trail she uncovered was too good to keep to herself.

Every tidbit of information about her family history led to more questions, she explains, all the while letting her colourful imagination fill in the blanks.” even sure if Charles Vernon was in fact his real name. As things unfolded Warren started to piece some interesting things together.

“I always thought it was interesting that my mother and her siblings looked a bit different,” said Warren. “Of the four, two were tall and thin and the others were short and stout.”

Warren said she didn’t initially set out to write a book, but the paper trail she uncovered was too good to keep to herself.

Every tidbit of information about her family history led to more questions, she explains, all the while letting her colourful imagination fill in the blanks.

“It’s toned down a lot from the original version,” Warren laughed, adding that it’s interesting how people are quick to criticize writing when it gets a little racy but have no problems with what’s on television.

Being the family historian has blossomed into a real passion for Warren in recent years. She explains it has become a really good way to engage her children and grandchildren to teach them about history.

She has taken courses on writing memoires and is now teaching those skills to others.

Barbara Warren

Everlasting Lies went to print in March of this year with Friesen Press. Since then it has earned the author high praise with some readers calling for a sequel or miniseries to be made on it. Review online have called it ‘an incredible story’ that leaves you shocked, happy and even angry at times. It has been described as rich, emotional and raw, leaving the reader “looking for more” from Barbara Warren.

Barbara Warren, born in Brentwood England in 1940 is a local painter, photographer and writer. She and her husband live in Lethbridge half time and as a snow birds in Puerto Rico during the winter months. She and her husband have travelled around the world taking photographs and exploring cultures from Montana to India. Everlasting Lies is her first book and went to print this spring.

Everlasting Lies is available online at Amazon and at Indigo (Chapters).

Visit her website at www.bewauthor.com for more about Barbara Warren and her work.

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A successful microbusiness in Burkina Faso

THELocalPRICE OF POVERTY: organization provides power to the poor The dry season has made its merciless return to landlocked Burkina Faso. Battling the harsh Saharan winds and the scorching African sun, a frail, ageless boy walks for hours, creating an immeasurable distance between him and the village he calls home.

In his short life, these journeys have been made countless times, all in the name of survival. Although the trek is never easy, it provides the boy an opportunity to think, plan and dream.

The endless hours of solitude have gifted the boy with a crucial realization: it’s not where you come from that matters most, it’s where you’re going.

And Daniel Zopoula would go places; of that he was sure.

Originally from a small village in Burkina Faso, West Africa, Daniel was 33rd in a family of 35 children produced by his father and eight wives. Losing his birth mother at age four forced Daniel to live with a step mother, catapulting the extreme poverty the family was living in to an even deeper dimension.

“It became a living hell,” says Daniel. “In a situation where there was no food and no resources available, the famine was too much.”

His father gathered the family together and told the children that they would need to fend for themselves. With that, Daniel was left isolated and vulnerable, sucked into the cruel and uncertain game of survival.

Still, he survived by whatever means necessary. Along with begging for food, Daniel and a group of children from the village walk for miles, gleaning fields for whatever morsels they could find to fill their distended bellies.

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by Christina Scott

“I ate unimaginable things,” he says. “It was a desperate situation that was all about surviving.”

Today, much of Africa is still plagued by the same issues. Per the website, Our Africa, 40 per cent of sub-Saharan Africa lives in absolute poverty, making less than $1.25 per day. In Burkina Faso, more than 45 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line.

Contributors to poverty include weather conditions such as famine and floods. Eighty per cent of the population relies on farming, and harsh extremes often destroy all hope for lucrative livelihood. Other factors include a lack of education, the inability to care for large families, and tense political climates.

Suffering through poverty alone led Daniel down a dark and painful path. Daniel was forced to serve “masters” who subjected him to beatings and psychological torture. In Burkina Faso, a quarter of a million children are enslaved every year, often taken to coastal countries to be used for child labour.

“My humanity was diminished,” he says. “I was objectified and used to please the strong and the mighty. What can a child do in the hands of oppressors?”

Despite the cruelty, Daniel could separate himself from the horrors that were happening to him.

“I just imagined myself as a bird, flying,” he says. “I thought, people can have my body, but not my obedience. You can beat me, you can cut me, but you cannot have me, because the true me is bigger than [this.]”

Daniel lived in his imagination, dreaming of a better world.

“The more you help people, the more you see how large the need is.

It’s a privilege to work in this field, but it is hard on the soul.“

Director of the Boura Children’s Centre, Burkina Faso

“I knew I could envision a new world. I knew I had the power to redraw the map.”

That attitude, along with western intervention, would help Daniel solidify that goal. At approximately 13, Daniel was rescued from that existence and sponsored by a missionary couple from Saskatchewan.

The couple’s sponsorship allowed Daniel to attend school in Burkina Faso for the first time. Through continued sponsorship, Daniel eventually moved to Canada 1994, where he pursued higher education.

Despite being removed from poverty, Daniel’s mind continually wandered to the crisis in his homeland. In 1995, Daniel planted the seed that would become Bridges of Hope International Network of Development Agencies. The organization works to relieve poverty around the globe by partnering with other non-profits to aid those in need.

“There was this idea that we are all connected, no matter what our conditions or social status. We might as well learn together, be together, do together and help each other.”

Daniel and his wife relocated from Regina to Lethbridge in 2000, bringing Bridges with them.

Along with a local office in the city, Bridges has partnerships in 21 countries, on four continents: North America, South America, Africa and Asia.

Poverty relief projects include building and sustaining orphanages, schools and water wells and providing medical aid in hospitals and malnutrition clinics.

Together, the partners of Bridges of Hope have aided millions, and provided education to more than 100,000 children around the world.

Partnerships are built and sustained through personal relationships, with project managers in different locations. Trips to Burkina Faso and Haiti are also made two to three times per year.

In Lethbridge, Bridges’ primary focuses include: Youth One, Faith in Action Against Homelessness, child sponsorships and microloans in developing countries. Sponsorships cost $40 a month, providing children food, medical care and education.

Marsha Graveland, senior manager of operations in Lethbridge, says the sponsor program has a profound impact.

“We’ve seen children on their deathbeds survive; we’ve seen kids go to school; we’ve seen parents who care so much about the future of their children that they make sacrifices.”

Having the opportunity to travel to Burkina Faso helped Marsha realize the true and dire need of the population.

Bridges founder Daniel Zopoula with sponsor children in Burkina Faso

“[Seeing the devastation] is like a picture that is etched in your mind forever,” she says. “I used to see pictures where they showed a child who was naked with a big belly. If you go there, you realize they’re all like that. This is the country. It’s lifechanging picture you can never get rid of.”

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Stanley David King School, Burkina Faso Burkina School

Both Marsha and Daniel agree that Bridges’ largest area of impact has been through its microloan program. Allowing local enterprise to thrive is key to poverty reduction.

“If we can have an impact on a group of people and help them to grow a business, it changes the community,” says Marsha. “We want to help them build the sustainability.”

Through a partnership in Burkina Faso, local entrepreneurs are offered training which teaches budgeting, banking and business growth.

Following this, participants are provided money to build their business.

After a certain period, the money is paid back and given to the next person in need.

“Nobody wants to live by aid,” says Daniel. “They want to create means, and they have the know how. People in Africa say, ‘I don’t need you to teach me how to fish, I just want access to a pond.’ When that access is created, it makes for a beautiful thing.”

In Burkina Faso, entrepreneurs are primarily women in an effort to support their families and provide a better future for them.

“One woman started off selling baked goods on her own, and she now employs 17 people because she was getting help,” says Marsha. “That’s pretty significant.”

Marsha and Daniel also explain that aid has the largest benefit when outsiders and locals work together to address problems; assuming people’s needs often causes more harm than help.

“We need to steward our contribution in a way that is smart and helpful,” says Daniel. “A gift that is poorly made has the power to injure, to hurt.”

One example of this is how excessive donations of clothing from firstworld countries quashed the textile industry in Kenya.

“When we’re working with our partners, we’re constantly trying to help them realize the impact [their project] going to is going to have on the community,” says Marsha. “The impact it has if you’re not focusing in the right direction is pretty significant.”

“If people can understand that everybody’s voice counts in an equal partnership, I believe we can profoundly impact the way people live,” adds Daniel.

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“There was this idea that we are all connected, no matter what our conditions or social status.

We might as well learn together, be together, do together and help each other.”

For Daniel, returning to Burkina Faso each year is a sobering experience.

“As soon as you get off the plane, you are hit by the heat,” he says. “I think, is there going to be a time when the weather changes? Is there going to be a day when the winds change and bring something extraordinary?”

He says that although Bridges’ work has helped millions, the idea that there is always more to do can be difficult to process.

“I’m profoundly impacted by the millions who have been touched and the hundreds of millions who have not been touched,” he says. “The more you help people, the more you see how large the need is. It’s a privilege to work in this field, but it is hard on the soul.”

Despite the hardships he endured, fond visions of his homeland remain ingrained his memory: Daniel recalls walking with his father, climbing a steep hill. When he became tired, his father swooped him up, placed Daniel on his shoulder and carried him.

“When I was sitting on his shoulder, I couldn’t help but notice how far I could see. Working on poverty is like climbing that hill. The little boy inside of us is exhausted trying to walk. When we ask for help, we ask people to be like my dad: pick me up, put me on their shoulders and help me see further.”

To this day, Daniel doesn’t know his exact age. Impoverished children are often “paperless”, lacking proper birth certificates.

While Daniel’s age may never be known, one thing is certain: that little boy who “could envision a new world, with the power to redraw the map” was wise beyond his years.

To find out more about Bridges of Hope, visit www.thebridgesofhope.com or call 403-380-3844

Doggie Daycare Pet Sitting (for any type of pet) Dog Walking Dog Wash Pet Transportation

113 - 13 Street North 403-380-4922 www.petcitycanada.com

THE

• Experienced • Knowledgeable • Caring • Trustworthy

PET PHOTO

CONTEST Winning Photo Masa

Photo by: Teri Petz

Winner will receive a gift certificate from

Photos submitted via email must be at least 1MB. Please provide caption and name of photographer. Quirk Magazine, Shabella Publishing and sponsors retain the right to use winning photographs for promotional purposes.

email your photos to: info@readquirk.com

Entry Deadline January 31, 2017 Quirk - 35

The Lethbridge & District Humane Society has been a no-kill haven since its inception in early 1970. It is their goal to take care of strays and abandoned pets until a home can be found for them to thrive and have a new start in life. Some animals stay for years before finding a family to love them.

With the support of Park Pet Hospital & Northside Veterinary Clinic, Quirk would like to introduce a few of the residents who have been waiting for quite some time. Rescued pets are exceptionally loving,

and very grateful for a chance to be with you. If you have room in your home and your heart, please give the Humane Society a call to give one of these furry friends a chance to belong, and be loved.

They are a gift!

Call: (403) 320-8991 Website: lethbridgehumanesociety.com

Fallon

Fallon is a stunning soft torbie, with strawberry blonde and gold in her coat! She loves attention and is extremely affectionate! Fallon came to the Humane Society in April, just days before delivering her kittens. She has raised her kittens in foster care, and is now ready for all the attention a Forever Home can give her! Fallon is chatty and companionable, great company to have around.

Her beautiful coat requires a little brushing to maintain it's shine!

Twyla

Twyla is a playful, affectionate, petite young lady; approximately a year old. She arrived at the Humane Society with her kittens this spring.

She has now been spayed, and is looking for her very own Forever Home! Twyla gets along well with most other cats and loves to play, wrestle and chase! Twyla also enjoys a good snuggle.

She's a real charmer!

Morning Star

Morning Star is a very gentle-natured, affectionate young lady. She asks politely for snuggles, and will take all the attention you have to spare! Morning Star came to the Humane Society late this summer with her 7 tiny kittens. She has been in foster care until now, taking VERY good care of her babies, she has been a devoted mother! Now she'd like a Forever Home where someone would take care of HER! She'd be very appreciative, loving and loyal in return, she's an absolute gem!

Ramsey is a good looking orange and white kitten, about 6 months old. He loves to play wi his toys, and with his siblings. He's got a great purr, which he uses as soon as you pick hi up! He's energetic and fun, very entertaining to watch.

He'sCats presently residing at th • Medical & Surgical Care for & Dogs Lethbridge Humane Society, but is looking for his very own Forever Home!

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Wellness Consultations • Dentistry • Endoscopy, Digital X-Ray & Ultrasound • Laser Surgery • Nutritional Counseling • 24 Hour Emergency Service Available

Quirk - 36

ith im he

Duchess

Duchess is a beautiful, friendly young cat, about a year and a half old. She came to the Humane Society this spring with her kittens, but is now ready for her own home!

Duchess is a little timid at first, but gentle and affectionate when you get to know her.

She gets along well with other cats, and likes to explore.

She also likes to play and is quite entertaining to watch!

Skittles

Skittles is a lovely looking Siamese cross who is looking for a very special home. Skittles likes to be left alone and admired from a distance! She likes to lay on a perch and watch the world go by, as long as you don't interfere with HER!! She rarely likes to be petted or fussed over, and can be very cranky if you try to pick her up. She hates to be held. Skittles doesn't like change and takes quite a while to settle in. Once she has settled, however, she goes about her business and keeps pretty much to herself. This cat will not do well in a busy home, or in a home where she is expected to interact. Still, she's a lovable little beauty!

Snowdrop and Tic

Snowdrop and Tic are a bonded pair (Snowdrop - female, Tic - male), who came to the Humane Society about 1 1/2 years ago. They are Oriental Short Hair cats and are now looking for a Forever Home where they can be together.

The Humane Society volunteers ADORE this gentle, affectionate pair! They snuggle up together always, and are inseparable. Snowdrop is the more outgoing of the two and enjoys snuggling people and lapping up all the attention she can get! The very handsome Tic is a little more reserved, but warms up when he gets to know you.

Snowdrop and Tic are going to be such a welcome addition to the right home!

Park Pet Hospital 142 Columbia Blvd. West Phone: 403-328-0028

www.parkpethospital.ca

Northside Veterinary Clinic 210F-12A Street North Phone: 403-327-3352

www.northsidevet.ca Visit our website and Facebook page Quirk - 37

TOP 10

Reasons Dogs Don't Make New Year’s Resolutions They don’t plan ahead and worry about the future

Bella

Photo: Chris Yauck

Shani

1.

2. They live each day the best way they know how 3. They don’t try to be anything but themselves 4. It takes very little to make them enormously happy 5. They make the best of what they already have 6. They live in the moment 7. Their main goal is to love and be loved 8. They keep it simple 9. If it doesn’t bring them joy in the end, they don’t do it 10. Definition of resolution: a firm decision to do or not

RECIPE

By Jean Van Kleek

to do something: Dogs are resolute in one thing… “to be.”

Photo: Chris Yauck

SOFT PEANUT BUTTER

Kiwi

OATMEAL

Cookies

1 1/2 cups smooth peanut butter 1/2 cup molasses 3 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon cinnamon 4 cups uncooked quick oats

Zoe Preheat oven to 350 F for 15 minutes before baking. Beat together peanut butter and molasses. Add vanilla.

Add beaten eggs. Now baking soda and cinnamon. Gradually add oats mixing thoroughly.

For large dogs, drop a teaspoon full onto an ungreased baking sheet and flatten to 1/2 inch thick.

For small to medium dogs drop 1/2 teaspoon, shape and flatten to 1/2 inch thick.

Bake at 350 F.

For soft cookies, bake 12 minutes. For crunchier cookies, bake 15 minutes. Makes approximately 65 dog cookies.

Easy and delicious!

Fun to make.

Quirk - 38

*Michelle's recipes include well researched ingredients to help make your dog happy & healthy.

Michelle Zandstra

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*Cannot be combined with any other offer. Restrictions may apply. See store for details. Edible , Edible Arrangements , the Fruit Basket Logo, and other marks mentioned herein are registered trademarks of Edible Arrangements, LLC. © 2016 Edible Arrangements, LLC. All rights reserved. ®

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highlevelcanoesandkayaks.com phone 403-327-4506 for more details

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Registered Hearing Aid Practitioner

www.elbeeshearing.com 615 4 Ave South, Lethbridge