VOYA 2505852767 GAZINE.CA APRIL 2020 9 · Hill, on Vancouver Island. With a custom maple wood bar, wood floors and candlelit cedar tabletops, in an 11-years young building, it has

9APRIL 2020NANAIMO AND VOYAGER MAGAZINE 250.585.2767 NANAIMOMAGAZINE.CA

10 APRIL 2020 DUE TO COVID-19, SOME BUSINESSES MAY HAVE CHANGED HOURS & SERVICES. PLEASE CHECK THEIR WEBSITE.


VOYAGER COVER STORY

Meat eaters dine at Eve Olive and are blown away by the taste and quality of the food, changing the old story around plant-based, of only eating vegetables, to enjoying a plethora of flavours and textures and familiar dishes as well as new and creative ones. They even have an artisan cheese board, with nut-based artisan cheeses, olives and figs, which pairs nicely with a glass of local Island wine! If you know anyone visiting BC, especially beautiful Vancouver Island, make sure they go to Eve Olive! Check out the menu on their website! Eve Olive does take-out and is now on Skip The Dishes. Online reservations are recommended and can be made on their website, Facebook page or Google.www.eveolive.com @eveolivecuisine Eve Olive (on Facebook)

Eve Olive, Plant-Based Cuisine, Wine and Cocktails...

Eve Olive is in a quaint and cozy little wooden complex at Rutherford Boardwalk, on the top of Rutherford Hill, on Vancouver Island. With a custom maple wood bar, wood floors and candlelit cedar tabletops, in an 11-years young building, it has both a rustic and modern feel with a flowered, wrap around patio.Find local beers on tap, local wines and many cocktails, some from their local

distillery, served by friendly and caring staff. The menu features tapas, with each tapa available in very generous entree size. The food is mostly handcrafted, such as the nutmeg-infused sweet potato ravioli with cashew cheesy cream sauce or the Greek plate with house-made feta, tzatziki, hummus, pita and house-made oyster mushroom calamari. While featuring curries, pizzas, burgers and creative and delicious salads, their comfort food menu is small, but with something for everyone, including being 100% dairy-free with 85% gluten-free options! Eve Olive has just celebrated its 1-year anniversary and is becoming, not only a spot for locals in a developing community in the North End of Nanaimo, but a go-to destination spot for travellers from around the world, with visitors and reviews from South Africa, Europe, Australia, India and more. It is the first licensed and fully plant-based restaurant on Vancouver Island.


DID YOU KNOW that the Nanaimo Lions Club have served the Nanaimo community since 1947?

DID YOU KNOW Lions Clubs have been active in the communities in Canada for 100 years?

DID YOU KNOW that the Nanaimo Lions Club built the Lions Pavilion in Maffeo Sutton Park and the Lions Great Bridge spanning the Millstone River?

DID YOU KNOW that the Nanaimo Lions Club sponsors the Lions Free Skate at the Frank Crane area – an opportunity enjoyed by over 50,000 in the last 9 years?

DID YOU KNOW that the Nanaimo Lions Club conducts annual vision screening of all Grades 4 and 7 students in

Nanaimo schools?

DID YOU KNOW that the Nanaimo Lions Club annually provides $7,000 in scholarships to graduating Grade 12 Nanaimo students to assist them to further their education?

DID YOU KNOW that the Nanaimo Lions Club supports the training of six types of service dogs?

DID YOU KNOW that the Nanaimo Lions Club collects used eye-glasses for distribution to third world communities?

DID YOU KNOW Lions Clubs offer leadership training and personal growth opportunities to benefit you in your job and community?

These are just a few of the many benefits of membership and of projects the Nanaimo Lions have provided for the betterment and

enjoyment of all residents of Nanaimo.

A basic principle of all Lions Clubs is that funds raised from the public are dedicated to service projects for the public.

The members of the Nanaimo Lions Club are women and men just like you who have decided to give something back to our communities and believe that by working together, we will accomplish more for our communities.

To continue providing these many services to our commun-ity, the membership of the Na-naimo Lions Club must be con-tinually rejuvenated. We invite individuals and couples to visit our club to see what we offer. New members bring new ideas and energy. If you are looking

Did you Know…for opportunities to: become involved in your community; help your neighbours and serve as a Community Leader, join Lions.

Membership in a Lions Club offers you an opportunity to give back to your community, to volunteer your time and skills to help those less fortunate in our community and to learn new skills….

If you are interested and wish for more information please contact:

President: Pierre Le Gal (236) 238-2644, [email protected] Chair: Claire Clark (250) 591-1635, [email protected]

THE LIONS CLUB OUR COMMUNITY | SUBMITTED BY LARRIE TAYLOR


CELEBRITY SPOTLIGHT

Joelle Rabu:Joelle Rabu:In her Own Words

“My parents emigrated from Brittany, France and arrived in Halifax in 1958, they and 2 siblings had decided that a quaint coastal town on Vancouver Island was their destination. At the time, my 5’2” mother was pregnant with me. As one knows not to argue with a 7 months-pregnant French woman, my father acquiesced, when she said: “Stop the car!” Much to the dismay of my teenaged siblings, it was in Winnipeg…for the next 12 years. I was raised in a small community on the Red River. French was spoken at home, English in school and a mix of Ukrainian, Creole, patois and Cree were the sounds on the playground. This would explain my appetite for languages. In typical French fashion, my father cooked, my mother organized, and the two were known to suddenly stop everything and dance a tango in our kitchen. The romantic voices of Piaf and Aznavour; the sounds of Rimsky-Korsakov and Berlioz, and the joyful melodies of the ac-cordion were the soundscape to my upbring-ing. This would explain my passion for music. Unique ethnic art from around the world occupied the space on the walls, as my family had already satiated their hunger for world travel before I was born. This would explain my curiosity of the world.

At 12, we finally made it to Courtenay. I was involved in piano lessons, school choir and band class. My friends and I were a creative group whose perfect Saturday night meant doing improvisational theatre and writing songs about ending wars. I loved school and my friends, but my parents had passed on the wanderlust bug. At age 16, I quit school to travel the world with a friend. After 3 years and more than 40 countries, I returned home to Oyster Bay to work in my family’s resort.

City life beckoned and in 1983, I was managing the trendy Mulvaney’s Restaurant on Granville Island. My tourism-hospitality career path hit a detour when my brother bragged about my Pi-af-esque voice to a Vancouver theatre director who needed a hit show and had a script called Piaf, Her Songs, Her Loves. I reluctantly went to City Stage and sang the 3 Piaf songs I knew. One year later, the longest running musical in Vancouver’s history at the time, closed with many Jessie awards, and the foundation of my ‘band’ was created. For 30 years, I collaborated with the show’s musicians, including my lighting designer husband, as we toured the world, performing concerts of original material. At 30 I became pregnant and saw an opportunity to slow down and write a new musical about Edith Piaf and her tumultuous life, with songs that would weave her stories into a dramatic tapestry of her last performance in New York before she died at age 47. The show premiered at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in 1989 to great accolades. We toured that show for decades, my kid in tow. That kid is Nico Rhodes whom, having been melodiously nurtured by my band and by the musical community of Nanaimo, is now a well-established music director and com-

poser. One of the loveliest gifts Nico has given me, was orchestrating my Tonight…Piaf show for full symphony orchestra in 2015. Nico was 25 when we performed the orchestral version with the VI Symphony …25 years after I had written the script. We’ve found out the they’re

planning to remount Tonight…Piaf in their 2021 season. There is no greater thrill.

My life has been full and blessed. I’ve done inter-esting things in the arts world, like a command performance for royalty, nominated for a Juno, performed on 5 contin-ents, hosted a live radio show for French CBC

during the Olympics, written and hosted for Knowledge Network, and directed fundraisers in support of mental health.

My world has also been rocked by grief. I lost my father, mother, husband, several close friends and most recently my life-partner, and grief was my roommate. After my husband of 30 years died, I left music and went to Haida Gwaii to work on a tourism project for the Haida Nation. Within 5 years, I had found love again but last year, my life-partner’s passing led me back to familiar Nanaimo. A Mexican rescue dog rescued me and our walks have helped me find solid ground again.

My fun spirit is returning. Nico has been coax-ing me back on stage to perform together. My other son, Jace, has made me a great-grand-mother, my friends are numerous and always there for me. I consider myself a privileged being, and welcome ‘discomfort’ in my life. Life is wide, waiting to be filled with discov-ery, compassion and endurance. I believe we need to look after each other more, pay attention to nature’s pains, protect our youth from fears and respect the gifts we’ve been given.”

In the time of Covid-19, I was able interview the with the award-winning songbird, Joelle Rabu, by email. I was going to create an article from her responses, but she is such a beautiful writer:


Hub City Soap Box DerbyOUR COMMUNITY | BY KRIS IRELAND

It has been decades since Nanaimo streets have seen a soap box derby, but this Spring will change that with the inaugural Hub City Soap Box Derby being held in the Old City Quarter May 30th and 31st!The race will take place on Saturday and Sunday, racing down Fitzwilliam Street in the Old City Quarter from 10am until 4pm, both days. Fitzwilliam Street will be closed from Prideaux Street to Wallace Street from early morning until evening, with no overnight parking. Saturday will be the kids’ division and Sunday will be the “Big Kid” and corporate division racing. The event has already gained so much attention that a waiting list has been started for the kids’ registration. The adults are being asked to build their own unique cars, with the only exception being no motors! It’s all guts and the glory with trophies for best time, most unique build and best dressed pit crew from each division!

The Soap Box Derby will bring the community together to help raise funds for two great causes. This gravity powered

event will be hosted by the Old City Quarter Business Association and Alair Homes and is a fundraiser for the Men’s Centre and the Nanaimo Child Development Centre. All monies raised from the on-site BBQ and sponsorships will be split between the two groups.

The Old City Quarter is already home to great local events like Hop into Spring and Sounds of Summer, a music series held at different locations in the OCQ Fridays at Noon from June until mid September.

Alair Homes, a custom home builder and renovations specialist, is no

stranger to taking part in exciting community fundraising events. They have participated in the Silly Boat races for many years and initiated the “Great Pumpkin Toss”, a post-Halloween fundraiser in which donated pumpkins are fired from a homemade cannon or trebuchet!

With amazing sponsors like KGZ Development Corp., VMAC, Alair Homes and Superette Foods, the Hub City Soap Box Derby will be a massive annual event in the Old City Quarter that will kick off the festival season in Nanaimo!

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Sunset in IxtapaIf you have ever watched the 1998 movie “City of Angels” with Nicholas Cage in the lead, you might remember that all the angels gathered at sunrise and sunset on buildings and beaches to watch the sun. There seemed to be some connection with the sun and a greater power. It was like that in Ixtapa at the end of February. At about 6.30 after the heat of the afternoon had subsided, both locals and visitors to the area gathered on the beach facing west as the sun began to set. I have seen beautiful sunsets, but these were spectacular. Armed with a margarita or Cervesa,

FROM THE EDITOR | JUDY STEPHAN

you just stand in awe on the wet sand at the water’s edge, the waves lapping and sucking at your toes, and watch its final descent … and what happens next is magical. As it approaches the horizon, so the sky changes colour and suddenly you are faced with an extravaganza of reds and purples, oranges and pinks, and what has been a light so bright you cannot look at it, morphs into a glowing orange orb, so huge as it sinks to meet the horizon. You imagine you can here a sizzle as it touches

the ocean and appears to sink beneath it.

This past weekend I was in Cox Bay in Tofino … and it was the same … only different. It was too cold to be sipping on blended margaritas, so coffee was the drink in question, and we were cuddled up against the icy wind in parkas and toques, but the canvas was painted just the same using the same palette. Which one is better? Both are masterpieces painted by the same hand … you decide.

Cox Bay, TofinoIxtapa, Mexico


Of all your life priorities, your leisure time is one asset you can’t earn back. People who spend their time wisely know that it pays dividends to collaborate with a seasoned industry professional when it comes to fulfilling travel dreams. Imagine Cruise & Travel advisors provide per-sonal, completely customized service before, during, and after every trip. Whether you enjoy being involved in your vacation planning, or prefer that someone you trust takes the reins, Imagine Cruise & Travel advisors are uniquely vested in your RETURN on LIFE®.

4 REASONS PEOPLE DON’T WORK WITH A TRAVEL ADVISOR & WHY IMAGINE CRUISE & TRAVEL CLIENTS DO

1. People feel that doing their own planning is empowering, and that giving it up will diminish their experience. Imagine Cruise & Travel clients decide the level of involvement that’s right for them, and this may even vary from trip to trip. If you enjoy research and planning, you’ll have a professional partner. If you prefer having your advisor handle all the details, they can do that, too. Either way, you’ll enjoy quality, customized service.

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Just as your financial advisor ensures your return on investment, we ensure your RETURN on LIFE®. From weekend getaways to longer vacations, we collaborate with you on all of your travel dreams.

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WHY USE A IMAGINE CRUISE & TRAVEL ADVISOR2. They believe the Internet provides all the answers they need.

Imagine Cruise & Travel clients view their advisor as a trusted re-source whose industry knowledge, global relationships, and personal experience add tremendous value, and makes travel planning more enjoyable. A great advisor can validate your own research, and offer insightful recommendations to tailor each trip to your preferences, interests, and budget.

3. They believe an advisor adds to the cost of the trip. Imagine Cruise & Travel clients know better. A Imagine Cruise & Travel - travel advisor has access to the same (and often better) pricing than available online, and can secure VIP benefits, amenities, access, and extras that you can’t get on your own. To quote Warren Buffet, “Price is what you pay; value is what you get.”

4. They don’t understand the value of a travel advisor. Imagine Cruise & Travel clients rely on their advisors to make travel planning more efficient and enjoyable, to save time and money, and to lend expertise that makes a world of difference. A Imagine Cruise & Travel advisor also works on your behalf before, during, and after every trip. That’s peace of mind you can bank on.

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Canadian Women & Sport is making an impact in the empowerment of women and girls. To enhance this, they have identi-fied a new name and a new look, basically reinvigorating their mission. It’s all in an ef-fort to achieve equity for women in society through the power of sport. We all know that Sports has many explanatory definitions… “athletic activity, display of skill, test of talent, physical prowess, competition” and so many other actual descriptive phrases.

Formerly identified as the Canadian Associa-tion for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity, is now known as Canadian Women & Sport. It’s dedicated to creating an equitable and inclusive Canadian sport and physical activity system that em-powers girls and women. “Since 1981, CAAWS has been a crucial partner in establishing and

advancing a sport environment where girls and women excel, not only in competition, but also as strong leaders in their communities”, said Allison Sandmeyer-Graves, CEO, Canadian Women & Sport. This group will continue to partner with sport organizations, govern-ments and leaders across Canada, providing customized solutions, practical tools and research to advance gender equality. Vision, Mission and Guiding Values are important aspects of Canadian Women & Sport. As highlighted on their website: www.wom-enandsport.ca Their values are inherent to their work and as passionate champions for girls and women in sport and physical activity.

“This is an important new era and our new identity reflects our powerful mission,” said Nathalie Cook, Chair, Canadian Women & Sport. The prepared statement continues to quote Ms Cook: “We believe sport is made better through gender equity and that we can achieve equity for women in society through the power of sport”. Many intriguing and memor-able moments for women and sport are fea-tured on the various social media sites.

Twitter.com/womenandsport.ca Facebook.com/womenandsport.ca email: [email protected]

Bernie Pascall has an exten-sive background in TV Sports, and 30 years as Sports Direc-tor/Commentator with BCTV. He called the play by play of the Vancouver Canucks, World Hockey Champion-ships and broadcast several Olympics, CFL, Whitecaps, Figure Skating and other sports. He’s a member of the Canadian Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

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ticipating in activities such as exercise, eating well and sleeping well all help make it better. Learn your triggers or warning signs that an episode is starting to be better equipped to face them.

This is information for a school assignment, not advice. Please seek a professional if needed. A full bibliography is available on request.This is information for a school assignment, not advice. Please seek a professional if needed. A full bibliography is available on request.

What is Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar disorder is a very serious mental illness. It makes the person have unusual mood changes from a feeling of mania to deep depression. These are called episodes and about 2.8% of people in the US struggle with this: About 1 in 100. It affects their performance, judgment, relation-ships, activity, and sleep. Experts still don’t know exactly what causes it, but know things like it is made worse from being too stressed and substance abuse.

Causes and Symptoms: Scientists have been studying the brain ever since the first case of Bipolar disorder was recorded in France in 1851 by French psychiatrist, Jean Pierre Falret, but we don’t have one answer. According to research, it may be genetics so it runs in the family, or from being abused, alcoholism and substance abuse, which is common for young adults and teens today. Although you can have the disease at a young age, it commonly develops in late teens and early adulthood. Some warning signs and symptoms may include mood swings, called episodes.

Solutions and how we can help: In teens, it can be difficult to spot but once you have seen a professional and are diagnosed with Bipolar disorder, there are many different ways to

treat it. These not only help in the short term but are meant to help you over-come Bipolar and have a productive life. The doctor may prescribe medications, depending on its severity, or recommend therapy.

If you, or someone you know is strug-gling with Bipolar Disorder, it is important they don’t battle it alone, as it can create unhealthy coping habits. Seeking medical attention is important especially if you don’t feel yourself or feel mentally unwell. It is important to understand your prob-lem and what is happening to you. Par-

BIPOLAR DISORDER

Manic episode Depressed episode

Feeling high and very happy Feeling very hopeless, sad and empty

Having lots of energy Having very little energy

Feeling jumpy or weird Trouble sleeping or feeling like they sleep too much

Having trouble sleeping Feeling like they can’t and don’t enjoy anything

Becoming more active than usual Feeling worried

Talking fast and switch topics quickly Having Suicidal thoughts

Being agitated Eating too much or too little

Having many thoughts at once Having trouble concentrating

Thinking they can do many things at once Reduced mental behaviour

Participating in dangerous and risky activities Diminished physical activities

This is information, not advice; please seek a professional if needed.

HEALTH & WELLNESS| BY ZIKORA OKEREKE (PUPIL AT ASPENGROVE)


One never knows where we might find love these days, perhaps we have searched in all the wrong places, only to discover that what we are truly searching for is a furever companion with a kind furry face. Sometimes fate brings us togeth-er with our furry beloveds and they simply arrive at our doorsteps, but other times we go in search of the perfect four-footed mate.

There are many different avenues to take whilst searching, perhaps our hearts lead us to our local animal shelter or SPCA where dogs and cats are greatly in need of furever homes. Other times we reach out to distant organizations such as: Soi Dog Foundation, who are remarkable for helping thousands

of cats and dogs, many from the horrors of the Asian dog meat trade. These ani-mals could not be more deserving of lov-ing and furever homes. Some of us desire a purebred dog or cat and know exactly the right companion to complement our families. In choosing this option, it is im-portant to protect yourself, do research and be educated on the responsibilities of a reputable breeder, in particular, making sure they are not glorified puppy mills. The SPCA, Veterinarians and The Canadian Kennel Club all offer valuable information. Today our searches often take us online, where numerous animals are awaiting homes due to people’s life circumstances and we find our furry

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Photo: Freepik.com

PAWS FOR THOUGHT BY MERRY PUPPINNS

MERRY PUPPINNS

companions in this way too. In the end, no matter the path you choose to look for love, you will undoubtedly find it in furry faces.

Looking for Love in Furry Faces

Merry Puppinns is a qualified Veterinary Assistant with over 10 years’ experience & has spent the last 2 decades devoted to the care & wellbeing of animals. She specializes in compassionate care of geriatric, special needs animals and offers profes-sional understanding for those healing from injus-tices & anxiety. She provides excellent, compas-sionate Pet-sitting Services for your beloved pets whilst you are away, as well as visits for adminis-tering medication as per your Vet’s instructions, as well as special diets. Fully insured & bonded. Single dog walks & cat pats, Plod n’ Sniff for senior dogs. Call for a free consultation today. (250) 402-3488 Email: [email protected].

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GARDENING & MORE

BUCKERFIELD’S GARDENING TIPS | BY ROSEMARIE BARNES

On Vancouver Island, April is synonymous with an explosion of new growth. Trees, shrubs, flowers, lawns, veggies; anything that grows in the ground is doing it now and Buckerfield’s South has the full spectrum from which to choose. Bulbs and seeds, soils and amendments, seed starter kits and grow lights, pre-potted plants and those just begging to go into your garden, as well as the tools to keep them well-tended and happy are ready and waiting for you. The knowledgeable staff at Buckerfield’s South can help you choose the ones just right for you.

There is still a little time to purchase and release Mason Bees. Buckerfield’s ordered plenty this year so your plants can receive the benefit of these pollinating professionals.

April is a great time for seeding grass; showery weather and double-digit temperatures are perfect for germination. Remember that during the growing season, fertilizers can be applied every 6-8 weeks so pick up plenty.

Our mild Vancouver Island winters mean that fleas and ticks are becoming evermore prolific. In addition to the usual array of flea and tick controls, this year, Buckerfield’s South has brought in Advantix which takes care of both pests at the same time. In April there can still be a bit of chill in the air, so your dog will appreciate a cozy jacket, and the horses a new blanket. While you’re there, you might like to have a look at the always excellent supply of halters, reins, and hay feed bags.

South End Nanaimo, suite 1-1277 Island Hwy S

250.753.4221

GrowthExplosion

an

of

Photo by Yusuf Baydal on Unsplash


CATHY HOLMES

Vulnerable Violet

HEALTH & WELLNESS | BY CATHY HOLMES

Fear of the unknown breeds nothing but more fear of the unknown. Crazy spiral, right? While we certainly need to maintain a healthy sense of caution, it is important that we con-sider the sources of information we receive in order to make decisions that are best served for everyone involved. The number one thing that we can all do to get through challen-ging times is to stay connected to com-munity rather than avoid conversations about difficult subjects or let our fears take root.This isn’t just about a virus – it’s also about self-care and emergency readiness. Many older adults in our neighbourhoods can’t access basic sup-

There is a whole lot of stuff going on in the world today. I am sincerely con-fused, gobsmacked, shocked and totally in awe of what feels like crazy making at it’s finest! Yet, I can’t help but see resilience!In this age of uncertainty, I am clear that community connections remain at the fore-front. We need each other, inspire each other, and have more impact in our com-munity than we realize. Non-profit agen-cies are working hard behind the scenes caring for our most marginalized people. Businesses are paying attention to the needs of patrons and trying their best to meet the requests of everyone in our re-gion. What we know for sure is that people care about each other and given the op-portunity to show their kindness rise to the occasion in the most beautiful of ways.

plies because of health issues or mobility concerns making self-care difficult. As indi-viduals we can be of great help during these difficult times by offering our time to people on our street that may need a bit more sup-port. Grocery shopping, a quick phone call, an offer to pick up something for someone who can’t drive, sweeping a porch, walking a pet…whatever the task, are simple ways neighbours can make the difference.Consider how it would feel if you were in the shoes of someone who couldn’t get out of their home?Violet may never ask for help. Hopefully, she doesn’t have to.


Mid Island Coop to Open 5th Liquor Store in Parksville

BUSINESS PROFILE | BY JUDY STEPHAN

With over 60 years in business, the community owned and managed Mid Island Coop, is expanding and building its fifth Liquor Store in Parksville. With successful and popular liquor stores already in Sayward, Coombs, Departure Bay and Duncan, this fifth location will be opening this Summer.

Mid Island Coop is well-known for its patronage rebates on Home Heating, Car Washes, gas and Propane, and Convenience stores, and the liquor stores are another way members can receive refunds and save money on items they would normally buy.

To spearhead this new liquor store opening, is the Liquor Operations Manager, Jared Brown, who has been with Mid Island Co-op for 25 years. Jared has a Wine Spirits Education Trust 3 (WSET3) and is the only person in retail to have the International Sommelier Guild level 2 certification north of the Malahat. He runs the coop’s Liquor Operations and with his knowledge and expertise, they have grown exponentially over the past 5 years. The Coombs store is the largest with over 4000 items and every liquor store manager is WSET trained,

so you can be sure of excellent product knowledge and service.

How the Co-op works: Each time you use your member number your purchases are recorded. At the end of the year, members-owners are entitled to a share in the company profits based on their purchases with the Co-op. The Co-op is owned by local residents, so it is a part of your community. That means that all of their earnings stay in the communities they serve. 100% of profits are returned to the community through reinvestment in the Co-op, equity allocations to their members-owners and through contributions to community organizations,

like soup kitchens, youth projects. The Mid-Island Co-op is also the title sponsor of a local waterpark.

www.midisland.coop


Because the virus might be keeping you away from cinemas, here’s one to watch at home:

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3.5 POPCORNS OUT OF 5

ARMCHAIR MOVIES | BY KELLY STEPHANEverything about this book is awesome: the author Michael Christie, a former pro-skate-boarder who lives on Galiano

Island in a house he built himself; the pages that are decorated to look like bark; the structure

of the story that is inspired by the lifelines on a tree trunk; the fact that this book was produced sustainably; and last but not least, the characters. The characters drive the story. They are complex, dynamic and complete. This is an intergenerational epic that starts in 2038, on a small island in British Columbia, and takes you back in time, in small steps, to 1908 wherein the family tree is not simply followed through the bloodline. On this journey through time, you get to experience multiple people’s relationship to nature and trees, the effects of the lumber trade on the environment and the Great Withering that is approaching! Greenwood is everything you want in a novel: adventure, love, disaster and trees. Enjoy the ride!

BOOK TALK | BY ANDREE BIZIER (WINDOWSEAT BOOKS)

GREENWOODby Michael Christie

SPENSER CONFIDENTIAL If you’re staying at home but are eager to watch something energetic and new, the Netflix Original film Spenser Confidential is the new release fit for theatres.Spenser Confidential opens with a now incarcerated ex-Boston police officer, Spenser (Mark Wahlberg) as he is about to be released after a five-year sentence. As he integrates back into the world, rooming with an unlikely ally Hawk (Winston Duke), suspicious homicides and dirty-cop behavior arise from the media that tie back to what led Spenser to prison in the first place. They pair up to solve the case and shed a light on a corrupt Boston police department.Overall Spenser Confidential is an easy-to-watch action comedy. Mark Wahlberg shines and paired with Winston Duke, create the new odd couple that make for a fun Netflix must-watch.



There has never been a more important time to find gratitude in our lives. We are in the middle of a global pandemic that has yet to peak in North America. It was a bit like a slow-moving tsunami – we could see it coming and never expected how quickly or how hard it would hit our shores. Now is the time for us to share our gratitude as much as possible, and as openly as possible. There will be thousands who will share the news and the updates, I invite you to share your gratitude instead.

Here are some of my favorite ways to practice gratitude:1. Saying thank you. At this time,

when everyone is encouraged to stay home, there are thousands of people who are working in essential services to keep us fed, our homes warm, and our hospitals staffed. Next time the UPS driver drops off a package, open

your window and shout a thank you as they leave.

2. Sharing your gratitude. Our newsfeeds on social media are filled with updates and media about the virus. It’s amazing to see how many people are posting asking people to share what they are grateful for today! Start a daily gratitude post by

sharing three things you are grateful for each day. My friend Micki has done this for over 1,000 days straight. Watch our interview on YouTube: http://bit.ly/1000daysofgratitude.

3. Choosing to Wake Up With Gratitude every single day. Most of us will survive this. We will grieve for those who are lost. And when we emerge from our homes, the world will be a different place. We can choose to be a beacon for gratitude in these most difficult times ahead. There is always something to be grateful for. I leave you with my daily mantra:

Thank you for this gift of another day, and the opportunity to be of service to others and to make a difference in this world.

Wake Up With Gratitude Podcast is available on your favorite podcast apps. www.wakeupwithgratitude.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS | BY JULIE BOYERWays to Practice Gratitude During a Pandemic


WONDERFUL WEDDINGS | BY JUDY STEPHAN

When you walk into Stonewater Spa situ-ated within the magnificent and luxurious Beach Club Resort in Parksville, you im-mediately feel relaxed. Its well-appointed décor, soft lighting and muted tones with the soothing trickle of a water feature, is condu-cive to a revitalising and relaxing experience. Stonewater Spa is a haven for rejuvenation of body and soul and offers a menu of spa treat-ments for any age and budget.

I was fortunate to experience the new and improved Pollogen FACE & BODY anti-aging treatments by Christine Schram, who has over ten years’ experience. In a private room with gently heated bedding and soft lighting,

Christine began the safe, non-invasive, pain-less TriLipo TriPollar Radio Frequency & Dynamic Muscle Activation superior Body Contouring technology which tightens skin, reduces fat, tones muscles and reshapes the body… all in the same 20-minute ses-sion. Using heat and DMA energy, you can feel your muscles contracting and know it is working!

I then had the equivalent treatment spe-cially designed for the delicate skin on my face. You can see instant results as it tight-ens, firms, smooths, reduces wrinkles and fine lines, contours the neck and jaw and reduces any scars. It is relaxing and gentle and the heat is soothing, and combined with a facial, you feel revived and refreshed and look visibly younger.

The TriPollar Skin Tightening technology de-livers warming focussed energy to the skin’s surface and underlying tissue, stimulating natural collagen regeneration. Each gently stimulating stage is punctuated with soothing hot towels, and I knew my comfort was para-mount, and felt pampered like a princess.There is no downtime and the results are immediate and long lasting. When finished, you can literally feel the skin is tighter and plumper and can see the revitalized complex-ion and a more youthful glow.Stonewater Spa and its services, performed by their experienced professional esthet-icians, are highly recommended, and wheth-er you treat yourself to a destination spa day, or gift it to a loved one for a special occasion, this is surely one of the best spa experiences I have ever had.stonewaterspa.ca

Solace and Serenity at STONEWATER SPA

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What can you do to say YES and stick it out FOREVER? Well, I don’t have a recipe for that, but I have a few ideas about how two people who are madly in love

ARE YOU READY FOR (RE-) MARRIAGE?

with each other can make sure to AVOID a common contributor to stress: WORRYING ABOUT MONEY.

At the beginning of something very magical and the outlook of having your most favourite human being next to you forever, it is just natural to leave out a few double checks.

When it comes to money, have a conversation with each other: what does it mean for you? What is OUR plan? What is your connection with it – do you work hard for it and make every purchase with awareness? Are you a saver (meaning you’d rather have it under your pillow than spending it on ‘things’ or ‘having a good time’)? Or are you a spender (meaning you ‘need to have this even if you can not afford it’ or ‘who cares – I’d like to go to the casino tonight and win next months rent/mortgage and a Porsche)?

Those are exaggerated situations – but you’ll see surely why a saver and a spender NEED TO TALK about money before they say YES for a LIFETIME. Fast forward ten or twenty years and I might have them

as clients…. Helping and coaching them through a rough patch…. Which might lead to a separation for the wrong reason.

For the individuals who say YES to ANOTHER CHANCE, there is a lot to consider when you blend two families; like how you do Christmas or grandma’s 90th birthday … and of course, the money side. You might have learnt a lot from your ‘former chance’…. hence, have a conversation and eventually see a specialist helping you achieve the FOREVER this time!

At BP Financial Divorce Strategies, we help couples at ALL STAGES having that conversation about money, to make sure it WILL NOT be the reason for your separation from the love of your life! Call us if you have any questions or book a FREE 20-minute CONSULT at bpdivorcestrategies.ca

Bettina Plendl / BP Divorce Strategies t: 778 762 1070, w: bpdivorcestrategies.cae: [email protected]

BP Financial Divorce Strategies

Bettina Plendl – Divorce Strategist (CFP, CFDS)


ART ADVENTURES | BY PATRICIA BANKS© (ARTIST/WRITER)

Patricia Banks

It’s a short climb down the rock stairs from the train stop, through narrow, restaurant and shop-filled streets, flanked by pastel-coloured houses, to Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church which hangs on the edge of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea. Built in 1318, though it is argued it could have been built in the 1100’s due to it’s materials and construction methods, the church domin-ates Vernazza’s skyline.Vernazza is one of five small villages that dot the Cinque Terre: the rugged Ligurian coast of northwest Italy. It has been a fishing village for more than eight generations of folks, with terraced gardens, vine-yards and olive trees. It is an inviting, traffic-free, tourist destination and is visually perfect in all directions to the eye of an Artist. Santa Margherita di Antiochia’s raw stone walls rise as if an extension of the cliffs at the northeast end of this natural, fortified harbour.The simple Romanesque architecture has an octagonal bell tower topped by an elegant cupola. The modest entrance at the front is on the left side. Inside the small door, a long stone staircase of about

Art AdventuresArt Adventures

twenty steps, greets the faithful. It is dark inside, which adds to its mystery and atmosphere. The wide-open space is supported by high stone walls and stacked stone pillars that speak silently of an ancient, haunting reverence. Many prayer candles illuminate the old wooden pews and a diminutive alter invites quiet, meditative reflec-tion. History is palpable.Words may describe many aspects of this vision and my feelings about it. But as reinforcement, I chose a mid-tone, grey drawing paper to keep my memories alive. Drawing etches the details on my brain and retraces my emotions. Art is about seeing slowly and ab-sorbing the journey. I encourage you to take an Art Adventure soon!

www.patriciabanks.ca | [email protected]

FROM VERNAZZA


LINES TOMAKE YOU SMILE

Lines to Make You Smile

Laughter is the Best Medicine• It’s Diarrhea Awareness

Week. Runs till Friday.• I didn’t think the orthopedic

inserts would help, but I stand corrected.

• How many psychiatrists does it take to change a light bulb? Only one, but it really has to want to change.

• I went out with an optician, but it had a tragic ending. She backed into the lens grinder and made a spectacle of herself.

• I bought my wife an artificial leg for Christmas. It was not her main present, just a stocking filler.

• I accidentally swallowed the Scrabble tiles, B,E,L,O,R,T and U. Going to the washroom could spell trouble.

• I went back to the card shop yesterday and said, “Do you

*Adapted from a Facebook post and does not reflect the views of the Editor or Nanaimo Magazine

sell bereavement cards?” “Yes we do,” replied the assistant. “Good, could I exchange this ‘Get Well Soon’ card for one?”

• I went to the doctor and told him ‘I’m pathological about shirt lapels.’ He said, ‘You’ve got cholera.’”

• The perfect cure for seasickness? Sit under a tree.

• The medical term for owning too many dogs … A roverdose.

• I have just been fired from my job with the Emergency Call Centre. A guy called in and said: “I’m depressed and lying on the railway track waiting for the train to come.” Apparently “Remain calm and stay on the line” was the wrong response.


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

YELLOW POINT SINGERS SPRING CONCERT: LET IT SHINE! FRIENDS IN CONCERT!

Yellow Point Singers have announced their spring concert, Let it Shine! The choir invites you to join them as they celebrate the return of spring with old favorites and new, from Irving Berlin’s Puttin’ on the Ritz to Jimmy Rankin’s Fare Thee Well, to the jazzy One Note Samba, and the melodic Cape Breton Lullaby. (Not to mention a few surprises as well.) Expect to smile. Expect to sigh. Expect to be dancing in your seat! Mark your calendar for Sunday, May 3rd, 3 pm at Oceanside Church, 381 Davis Road, Ladysmith. Tickets $15 (12 and under free) available from choir members or [email protected]

| BY JOAN ROSZMANN

| BY JOAN ROSZMANN

Taylor Fawcett and Jeremy Roszmann have been friends for 5 years sharing studies and voice training. Most recently in Na-naimo Jeremy performed Shaunard in Puccini’s La Boheme. After a year off due to a terrible accident that claimed his three front teeth, Taylor went back to university to finish his Master of Music in Performance. Now that he’s all done, the two singers are kicking off the end of his schooling, and beginning of his career, with a concert comprised of all their favorite music.With an emphasis on opera, their voice training and background, the repertoire will feature everything from the musical Into the Woods, to classics by Canadian folk hero Stan Rogers.This concert will be held at a private residence in Yellow Point, just south of Nanaimo. It promises to be an event filled with fun, some cheesiness, and a whole lot of love. Tickets are $25 and available at eventbrite.com. FMI: 250-753-9483



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VOYA 2505852767 GAZINE.CA APRIL 2020 9 · Hill, on Vancouver Island. With a custom maple wood bar, wood floors and candlelit cedar tabletops, in an 11-years young building, it has