June 2020 - FISSUE #141
The Singing Amma
GLOBAL PANDEMIC? SINGING CAN HELP!
Page 5
Open for Business
A GUIDE TO SUPPORTING LOCAL
Page 7
DANCING ALONE TOGETHER
Page 14
Get your June
HOROSCOPE
Page 14
DOUG AND THE THUGS SURVIVED! Page 3
ho is see w
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THE FISHBOWL • JUNE 2020 • PAGE 2
On Our Cover
Doug and the Thugs It was a dark and stormy night... nope that’s not it.
They'll be back!
Then in February 2015, they played their first gig at the Local Pub
There was high winds and rough sea’s... nope not that it either...
and in an instant, stars were born! That fateful night at the Local there
It was the Spring of 2020 and a plague had covered all the land!
just happened to be a saxophone player in the audience who apparently
Yup, that’s the one… Islanders and people of all nations sheltered at home for months upon months. People learned to socialize differently, zoom became a big thing, there were no shindigs, no open mic nights and definitely no live shows... but deep down South, in the hearts of some crazy ‘ol island boys the beat went on. As the restrictions lighten a rumbling can be heard across Fulford Harbour as they practice like madmen in the orchard at Ron & Donna’s farm, social distancing of course! Doug and the Thugs have been missing the stage big time! And they will be back, mark my words, they will find a stage and you will be entertained! Members of the group include Doug Thring, guitar and vocals; Dave Roland, Bass and Vocals; Ron Ateah, lead guitar; Dave Rowse, Saxophone; Paul Alexander, Drums.
Ron Ateah: “Yes but … some things need to be said. This band is really All About DOUG. And Yes I met Doug on Hornby and yes we did that Local gig but in no time at all (once he figured out how Dave and I were livin the life on Salt Spring Island) the guy was living in my front yard. And he has been here ever since.”
carried a saxophone with him wherever he went, and Dave Rowse became an important member of the group. Dave Rowse “I just felt pulled in by Doug’s amazing charisma and had to join the band! Actually he kept bugging me, and the thugs kept buying me beer...” In 2018 a young drummer named Paul Alexander from Salt Spring joined the group and really improved the groove and feel of the
Dave Roland: “That guy is really
band, and as an added bonus, is young and
something! He moved in, set up shop and
strong enough to carry all the equipment! Paul
immediately started to build his musical
Alexander “Always wanted to play the blues,
empire, spin his sonic web and craft his
they gave me the opportunity and they make
musical dream underworld. Ron and I were
me look so young.”
defenseless against him. He’s a real fascist of
Now 5 years later they frequently grace
the funk, a taskmaster of the tunes and the
the stages of Moby’s Pub, the Tree House Cafe,
godfather of the groove, and what he can do
the Legion, Fall Fair, Rotary Crab Fest, the Toy
to a blues! Oy yoy yoy! Unbelievable! What a
Run and likely many secret and fabulous house
thug!!”
parties, these boys have become a household name. On the island at least. Their repertoire of
Ron and Dave and Doug met at the Hornby Island Blues Camp in 2009. They began Jamming together
covers songs from Eric Clapton, to the Rolling Stones, Bo Diddley, Van
annually at the Blues camp and as time went on, they improved a
Morrison, The Animals, Joe Cocker, keeps hopping until the
little each year.
the dance floor bartender says last call!
THE FISHBOWL is brought to you by publisher Genevieve Price. Columnists: Lisa Sigurgeirson Maxx, John Bateman, Dorothy Price, Dr. Hannah Webb, Dr. Ralph Miller, & Mishka Campbell. Salt Spring Island’s #1 Source for Arts, Entertainment & Culture. Check out our Facebook page!
Occasional Contributors: Melinda Parks-Divers, Lis Bell Walton
Green Printing & Layout: Imagine That Graphics.ca Ad Sales: Deadlines are the 10th of the month previous to book ad space & submit content. Calendar events can be submitted up until the 15th. For rates & information call Genevieve today at 250.538.8427 or email thesaltyfishbowl@hotmail.com. THE FISHBOWL • JUNE 2020 • PAGE 3
Price is
Right
PRODUCT REVIEWS
by: Genevieve Price
Marcelle BB Cream
I prefer a natural look, most of you know that by now. Marcelle products always offer just the right amount of coverage while allowing me to maintain the natural look I crave. I bought this product in the skin tone “Fair” and it matches my skin tone perfectly. I have sensitive skin, it’s combination too, leans towards dry in the Winter and oily in the Summer and so far, this has not caused me any issues or breakouts. The formula is smooth and applies easily with either finger tips or a sponge. Remember the BB, Beauty Balm is a lighter product, like a light foundation, a concealer may be needed to cover any redness. If you are looking for a little more coverage to disguise imperfections like dark spots etc. in a one stop shop try the CC cream, CC stands for “Colour Correcting”. Marcelle is a Canadian company and cruelty free. Sponsored by
Summer
CLAY CAMP with Tracy
July 20 to 24, 2020
Five Glorious Days of Clay 10 am to 12:30 pm | Ages 6 + | $195 per student (siblings $10 off) Fee includes all materials and a glazing drop in (glazing date to be determined)
We are going to explore the magical world of Wizards, Fairies, Elves, Wands, Dragons and mythical creatures and as always a day set aside for your own creativity to make what YOU want to make. Pieces will be fired after the camp and everyone will be invited back for a glazing drop in. Please feel free to share... Contact Tracy directly via text at 250-537-6568 or email: tracy@artbyharrison.com to register. Space is limited. Covid 19 social distancing, Worksafe BC guidelines and sanitary protocols will be followed to ensure the health and well being of everyone.
the singing
AMMA *amma = grandmother in Icelandic
Lisa Sigurgeirson Maxx, ECE
The Salt Spring COVID Chronicles We at the Salt Spring Arts Council have had to quickly reorient our offerings during this time of social distancing. We want to include everybody, so for late spring we are offering all Salt Springers to participate in our new project, the Salt Spring COVID Chronicles. This online exhibit of photography and writing will launch on the SSAC website on June 6th and portray Everyday Life from Your Point of View in the time of COVID. We are looking for submissions from one and all. As we navigate the realities of a Global Pandemic, our particular experiences of social distancing and daily life can contribute to an historic account. The SSAC wants to learn how you are adapting to both the good and bad of life at this time. Share with us your writing in stories, poems or memoirs OR with a series of photos that define your daily or weekly activities. Are you at home, what daily rituals keep you sane? Are you working, how is your workplace different? Are you in isolation because you are immune compromised or sick, what does your day entail? Are you on the front lines, how does this feel? What alternative ways are you finding to be social? Do you have more creative time, are you discovering your creative side? How is this time changing your world perspective? All details and guidelines for entry are at www.ssartscouncil. com/salt-spring-covid-chronicles. Please submit work to programs@ ssartscouncil.com. Questions or further inquiries wor@ssartscouncil.com Entries accepted starting May 19. Online Exhibit June 5-30, 2020. All entries must be Salt Spring Island residents and be in direct response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, to include youth, Tracy Harrison is offering an online Zoom Art Workshop. Corona Creative – The Quest to Wear the Crown of Highness is for ages 8-15. Students completed work will be exhibited online as part of the COVID Chronicles. This is a three part art workshop helping students understand the COVID 19 pandemic from an environmental perspective. Students will explore the metamorphosis process of the Monarch butterfly from Caterpillar (which eats and destroys the planet) to the Cocoon (a quiet time of contemplation as we reflect and envision how we want the future to be) to the Butterfly who flies high above the planet with a visionary view and gentle impact on the environment. The Quest of the Crown is to identify the changes in our lives that are in the best interests of all beings on the planet. Three Fridays, June 5,12 + 19 from 10 - 10:45am on Zoom. Workshop kit - $15 includes black paper + chalk pastels. Workshop is free. Please register at ssartscouncil.com/product/corona-creativethe-quest-to-wear-the-crown-of-highness We acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia and of the Government of Canada.
Nurturing, empowering & educating families for over 30 years
Global Pandemic? Singing Can Help! Global pandemic. Covid19. Isolation. Quarantine. Wash your hands. Don’t touch your face. Just. Stay. Home. And SING! Words and phrases that suddenly, and quite unexpectedly, have become common aspects of this very different daily reality we find ourselves in. But... SING? As soon as the pandemic caused us all to shelter at home, the singing amma began doing what she loves to do best, but in a whole new way - singing via live video-streaming, inviting adults and children alike to come join me - #AloneTogether - and sing-along! As I sang, I found myself sharing some of the many benefits of singing – physical, mental, emotional and spiritual benefits – so, I offer you herein, some of the physiology behind a myriad of reasons why the simple act of singing can help us through these trying times. Singing feels good. Singing uplifts our spirits. Singing is a natural anti-depressant. The reasons for these high claims, on a physiological level, are multifaceted. The vocal chords and the muscles in the back of the throat are connected to the vagus nerve which is stimulated by singing, chanting and even humming. The deep breathing that is a natural part of singing also activates vagus nerve functioning which, in turn, stimulates the parasympathetic system. Together these bodily functions reduce cortisol – the stress hormone – levels, easing tension, reducing anxiety and aiding relaxation. Due to also calming our heart rate, regulating our blood pressure, and slowing our respiratory rate, singing can help us deal more efficiently with stress and fear. The act of singing itself also increases endorphin and oxytocin activity – the hormones in our bodies responsible for the happy, positive, pleasurable feelings. Plus, it’s hard to worry about things when you’re singing uplifting songs. Singing is a fabulous self-regulation tool. When our brain experiences melody (as opposed to spoken word) the whole brain becomes activated. In times of heightened uncertainty, insecurity and/or anxiety, anything that creates a sense of predictability – like singing familiar songs, and especially ones that have a lot of repetition – will help us feel calm and in control, as the neuroplasticity of the brain creates a web of safety and security. Singing can, thus, take us out of survival mode and boost our confidence in moving forward. All the deep breathing that happens when we sing also oxygenates our blood and gets it circulating. An oxygenated brain has enhanced alertness, concentration and memory. An oxygenated body experiences improved immune functioning and optimized cellular activity. Singing is an aerobic activity. It gives our lungs a workout by moving the chest wall as we use the intercostal muscles – the ones between the ribs – when we sing, and in so doing increases lung capacity. Singing together creates community and camaraderie. Even in these online, virtual sing-alongs we can experience a feeling of connectedness to all humanity around the globe. So, please, just SING! Join the singing amma every Tues & Thurs morning on my facebook page at www.facebook.com/thesingingamma for our Fun Songs for Young Ones SingAlong!
Send your parenting questions to: singingamma@gmail.com or facebook.com/thesingingamma | www.thesingingamma.com THE FISHBOWL • JUNE 2020 • PAGE 5
Chat with the Chamber
Artist in the Classroom 2020-21 We are launching a new online series of Artists in the Classroom videos to accommodate teachers, students and parents while they adjust to new school protocols.
with Jessica Harkema
Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce
The Next Economy Today I read the term… “The Next Economy” and it stuck with me.
Artists who would normally visit classrooms to share their
Since the beginning of the pandemic there has been a lot of discussion
projects are creating videos for you to enjoy at home. We are just
about the “New Normal” or “Building Back Better” but the term “Next
getting started and adding new videos weekly, please check out what
Economy” really struck home with me. It recognizes that there may be
we have already created at www.ssartscouncil.com/aic-online
parts of our economies that may cease to exist, or be heavily adapted but also inspires new opportunities. Both the Health and Economic Crises we are experiencing are unprecedented in most of our lifetimes. However, they present a rare and unique opportunity to make changes towards a more resilient and sustainable island economy and in turn, a resilient community. Building a resilient economy is not a new conversation in the economic planning world but it is easier said than done. The island economy has experienced significant seasonal imbalance for a wide
A of
free
our
very
store own!
Feel Free Salt Spring is currently hosted by OMG Boutique
in
downtown
Ganges until the end of May, and at that time they will be looking for a new home. Jenessa and the team rely completely on donations from the community, which they accept each Friday at OMG from 10am-5pm. All clothing and shoes are 100% free of charge! During this time
range of sectors. The pandemic highlighted this issue given its timing, where our tourism and hospitality, retail, agriculture, and trades sectors were about to ramp up for a busy season. Though some sectors are more affected than others, the crisis has affected all sectors on the island and is proving to be one of the biggest challenges that many of us have ever faced. Though the pandemic has been both financially and emotionally devastating for so many, some good has come from it. Families have had time to spend together, some business owners have had the opportunity to get some of their laundry list of projects done, entrepreneurs became innovators overnight to pivot their business for survival and we have, for the first time, seen significant collaboration
of vigilant health and safety, they are offering 30 minute private
of various organizations, businesses and influential individuals on Salt
shopping visits of 2 or fewer people from the same family/household.
Spring Island who are working tirelessly to push Salt Spring forward.
Shoppers can book their appointments online through their website or over the phone with Lisa at OMG Boutique. They have a sanitization station at the door, shoppers are free to browse not only the free items but also the curated boutique items
Though we all must follow the directives from the Provincial Government, behind the scenes there is extensive work being done to allow us to be ready to re-open when the time is right and with the right precautions.
of OMG, as well as a few local handmade artisans. After the visit, Lisa
The road to recovery and resiliency is going to be long and difficult
spends 30 minutes reorganizing and wiping down all surfaces in the
for our community. A lot of work from each business, association, non-
store in preparation for the next shopper.
profit, charity, service club, and local government will be required to
The response from the community has been overwhelmingly
build forward to the Salt Spring of the future instead of back to the
positive! “We wish to continue to offer this service striving for a
community of the past. But we can do it, with the right effort and
resilient island economy and expand into a bigger location, perhaps in collaboration with an existing business, so that we may offer more free items including furniture, books, housewares, tools etc. We welcome suggestions and assistance from the community! If you have any recommendations, please reach out. And spread the word!” Please visit their website at https://feelfreesaltspring.square. site for more information and contact details!
THE FISHBOWL • JUNE 2020 • PAGE 6
collaboration, we will come out of this further ahead. I invite you to join us in moving our community forward, we’re always looking for willing minds and hands to help us work towards resiliency through economic planning. Our next ”Ask Salt Spring meeting” will be on the 26th of June... it may be in person at a social distance, or via zoom. For updates https:// www.saltspringcommunityalliance.org/ask-salt-spring-island If you want to get involved, please get in touch via email jessica@saltspringchamber.com
DURING COVID 19 What an unusual and trying time this has been for all of us. Many businesses closed their doors for several months, Fishbowl skipped an issue, there is no Saturday Market or Fall Fair. Now with Phase 2 of the BC Governments Restart Plan taking effect and Phase 3 just around the corner many are starting to re-open. Now more than ever we MUST shop, explore and stay local if we want the vibrant business community to survive. If you feel safer at home many of your favourite businesses are offering contactless pick up and payment so you can order online (or by phone) on island!
SHOP LOCAL DINE LOCAL STAY LOCAL PLAY LOCAL
SUPPORT LOCAL
DURING COVID 19 RETAIL: Time for retail therapy! Choices will open their doors allowing one customer at the time. Alcoholbased hand sanitizer at the door. Wearing masks if you feel comfortable to do so. Thank you for keeping us safe & healthy and for your continued support. Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday 11 to 3 pm. Gift certificates available.
The team at Dragonfly Fine Art Supplies would like to thank you all for your support! Here’s what we’re doing to stay safe: One artist in the store at a time to maintain physical distancing. Gloves and hand sanitizer are provided. You can order by phone or email for contactless pickup. Tuesdays to Saturdays 11am- 3pm. Stay safe! 155 Rainbow Road 250-537-1151
Emmi’s Treasures provides affordable and sustainable clothing to families. During this time, we saw how essential we are to our island. Babies were born and children still outgrew their boots, they looked to us to provide. We will open our doors to 1 family at a time and be keeping everything safe and clean. 2200 Fulford-Ganges Rd @emmistreasures
Foxes at Play will be open from 11-3 MonWed-Fri. Offering one on one service, to ensure social distancing and safety for all. If you are looking for a particular game or something new, please give us a call or DM on Facebook and we can arrange contactless pick up or delivery if you prefer. Gasoline Alley Oceanside 250-221-0041
Giulietta Designs Studio is now open Thursday-Saturday from 11:00 - 3:00 or by appointment. Offering art jewellery that transcends time and place. Earrings, earrings and more earrings! From $28.00 and up. #127 Ganges Alley, Oceanside. Info@ giuliettadesigns.com giuliettadesigns.com
THE FISHBOWL • JUNE 2020 • PAGE 8
The Gettin Place is open to the public for curated vintage and thrift shopping! We’re so excited to see you! For everyone’s safety, our small shop accommodates two people at a time. We also encourage pre hand washing/sanitizer/gloves. For curbside pickup you can shop our Instagram feed @_thegettinplace_
Harlan's is thrilled to once again be open to the public. Limited shoppers will be allowed in to ensure social distancing, 1 family at a time or 2 separate individuals. Watch our Facebook page for specials running on Chocolate and Gelato. For special orders or pick up please call us at the store 250-537-4434. Located in the heart of Ganges.
We're open M-F 10-4 and Saturdays 10-2! We have Premium Bone Broth, 10 flavours of keto/paleo fatbars and our Keto bread and baked goods. All of our products are made with organic ingredients, gluten/grain free and without sugar. Free delivery on Salt Spring with an order of $70+. Call 250-537-1263.
We look forward to welcoming you back to Mondo! Health and safety measures are in place as we make plans to reopen our shop. Our commitment to our artisans and support during this time gives them the necessities to get through this… so new arrivals trickling in! We are all in this together... info@mondotradingcompany.com www.mondotradingcompany.com 250.931.2553
Mouats Clothing is pleased to be open from 10am-5pm with the government assigned safety procedures in place. Staying 6 feet apart we can still offer beautiful fashion, as well as daily active wear, footwear, and essentials. With less people in the store at a time we can offer a more unique shopping experience!
DURING COVID 19 OMG Boutique is open for prebooked 1/2 hour private shopping appointments, Tues-Sat 10am-5pm. Book here: omgsaltspring.square. site or call 250-931-1(OMG) (664). Follow us at www.omgsaltspring.com for special offers, new stock by local designers and makers, and for information about changing store hours and protocols in the months to come. Thank you for your support!
Our community matters and we deliver! If you are feeling safer at home email us today at PharmasaveSaltSpring@gmail.com for your online order form. We are offering daily deliveries or Instore pickup MondayFriday. As always, we will deliver your prescription and refill medication 7 days a week. Be Kind and Be Safe! Call 250-537-5534 Pharmasave Salt Spring 104 Lower Ganges Rd.
After being closed two months we have worked with our suppliers to garner discounts- to help with the sting of closures, job hour reductions. Nowoffering 20% of Spring inventory: organic t-shirts $39 organic sweaters 89$, great denim & linen dresses. Love to show you the looks! 11-3pm daily DM on fb, insta and pod website for private appointments or inquires.
Salt Spring Gallery is re-opening Thursday June 11th. We have clean hands & fresh art! Wow we have missed you so much. Come in and say hi (at a 6 foot distance). NEW HOURS Thurs - Sat 12-3 or by appointment. 250-931-0011 | info@saltspringgallery.com 135 McPhilips Ave saltspringgallery.com
The Salt Spring Tuesday Market runs June to October from 2-6pm in Centennial Park. The Market aims to inspire our community with a local food culture that stewards land, nourishes people and honours producers with a spirit of kinship and integrity. We have modified operations to allow for social distancing. PLEASE REMEMBER: SHOP, DON’T STOP!
The Singing Amma’s apothecary is also open for no-contact pickup of her all-natural and organic herbal wares line, including her: beautiful you, deeply moisturizing cream (perfect for those soft-washed, ohso-dry hands!) | kiss it better Healing salve | an array of tinctures alder, Cottonwood, cinnamon, Hawthorne, nettle | and cottonwood oil. Email lisasigurgeirsonmaxx@gmail.com to arrange an order.
Waterfront Gallery has represented the juried work of local artisans since 1978. We currently represent over one hundred talented island makers and we look forward to continue to bring you outstanding locally crafted goods. Enhanced cleaning/safety protocols have been established. Limit of 3 persons in store at a time. Beside the post-office 250-537-4525 waterfrontgallery.ca
As merchants open for business, we encourage islanders to support local businesses that have suffered during the shutdown. Buy some local art, get a massage and your hair done, rent a kayak, have a getaway at a local resort. Let’s be careful, but let’s come back strong Salt Spring! See our ad for details and incentives. Rainbow Rd Mon-Fri 7:30am-5pm, Sat 8am-5:pm, Beddis Rd Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: We are OPEN! Get out into the fresh air, enjoy the sunshine in a safe and healthy way! We currently offer all our rentals with a 25% discount! We have Kayaks, Sups, Bikes, E-Bikes, and Scooters! We are helping 1 group at a time with limited staff, pre-booking is encouraged. Saltspringadventures.com | 1-250-537-2764 info@saltspringadventures.com
THE FISHBOWL • JUNE 2020 • PAGE 9
DURING COVID 19 RESTAURANTS: Auntie Pesto’s sends a big thank you to the Salt Spring community for your amazing support! Dining room opening soon! Take-out is available Thursday to Sunday 4:30-7:30pm. Call the cafe 250-537-4181 from 2-7pm to order for pick-up. Our weekly menu is available on our Facebook, Instagram & Twitter pages, or sign up for our weekly menu email at auntiepestos.com
Buzzy’s is now open for great sandwiches - and bad jokes – Wednesday thru Saturday for Takeout. Pickup by ordering at buzzysluncheonette.ca. Featuring the famous Rabinowitz, our Reuben but with a better name for a better sandwich… Don’t believe us? Ask Rabinowitz! 149 Fulford Ganges Road 250-222-8650.
The Bistro at Hastings House is open and our service continues to evolve according to provincial guidelines. Please call 250-537-2362 for details and check our Instagram and Facebook pages for regular updates. Visit our website to learn more about our Protection Promise, hastingshouse.com.
FOOD CARTS: Al’s Gourmet Falafel and Fries is Salt Spring’s original food cart. We have reopened for the season with safety protocols in place and lots of outdoor seating. Check out our website to order online and for our complete COVID-19 Safety Plan at https://alsgourmetfalafel.com Open weekdays for lunch And special events coming this summer!
Paco’s Tacos is serving up authentic Mexican food Monday to Friday 11:306pm. Our cart and unique location allow easy social distancing. Pre-order is also available please contact us through Facebook message or call 250 538-7345. Located behind Axe & Reel. Stay safe and we hope to see you soon!
THE FISHBOWL • JUNE 2020 • PAGE 10
The team at Moby’s Pub would like to say “Thank you for all the support during the closure" And..."We are Open. We are making every effort to achieve a safe, comfortable atmosphere for everyone.” It’s ok if you are more comfortable at home, our Mobile App has lots of delicious takeout options available for you. Moby’s Pub - Salt Spring’s favourite waterfront patio
The team at the Salt Spring Inn wish to extend heartfelt thanks for so much community support in these uncertain times. Without your take-out orders, generosity and words of encouragement, we'd never have made it. Watch our social media or give any of us a call for updates on our reopening plan. We are all looking forward to seeing you soon! www.saltspringinn.com | 250-537-9339
We would like to express our gratitude to our resilient community and your continuing support of the Tree House Café through this challenging time. Under the carefully considered guidelines for re-opening restaurants, we will be opening our patio for limited seating. For the time being, we will be open Fridays and Saturdays from 8am-8pm and Sunday-Thursday 8am-4pm for dining-in and take away.
Never in a million years we would have thought encountering this challenge, only few weeks after taking over Seaside Restaurant! So, here’s a heartfelt shout of appreciation to the community for your support! We’ll continue to strive offering you the freshest seafood and more. Visit us on Facebook or https://seasiderestaurantsaltspring.com, online ordering available.
PHOTOGRAPHY: June 1st Ramona Lam Photography is opening again to serve you, while maintaining social distancing. Ramona is specialized in in Boudoir, Portrait and Weddings. She will not be offering hair and makeup, until phase 3. Everything will be contact free and close to home, no unnecessary travels. 250-221-8808 rlamphotography@gmail.com ramonalamphotography.com
DURING COVID 19 PET SERVICES: SaltyDog is open for boarding and rescues/ lost dogs. Based on 22 acres near town, nine secure outdoor runs and a large indoor play area. We are taking extra precautions by wearing gloves, a mask and each dog receives a complimentary bath on arrival. We ask you to maintain social distancing during pick up and drop off. Jaime 250-210-4440 or jaimehh3@gmail.com
Whiskers Pet Store sends a big Thank You for everyone’s efforts to keep Salt Spring safe. We continue to be open Monday to Saturday 9:30 to 3:30 for in store shopping (2 people at a time), or phone in for curbside pickups, or deliveries if needed. Wishing you and your pets health and happiness. 128 Lower Ganges Road, (250) 537-1838
SHOP LOCAL • DINE LOCAL • STAY LOCAL • PLAY LOCAL
SUPPORT LOCAL
Mishka’s
Book
Reviews with Mishka Campbell
The Glass Hotel
By Emily St. John Mandel It’s certainly been an unusual couple of months. I’m sure many of you are catching up on your reading list while you self-isolate. For others, myself included, it’s been a time filled with so much anxiety, that reading has been an impossible task. As someone who is used to daily (constant) reading, it has been both bizarre and stressful to go without. For two whole months, I could not pick up a book. I realized that to get back into my reading rhythms I needed to find the “perfect” novel to hook me. “Station Eleven” by Emily St. John Mandel is one of my favourite books. I reviewed it a few years ago, and was delighted by how many boxes it ticked for me...Canadian content, check; dystopian/speculative future, check; many narrative threads that all meet together in the end, check....and the list goes on. “The Glass Hotel”, her newest novel, shares many of the same traits, and seemed a surefire bet. Our story begins in Toronto in late 1999, with Paul, an incredibly self absorbed fellow whose thoughtlessness causes a tragedy. This leads him to seek out his 18 year old half-sister, Vincent, who is living in Vancouver and whom he hasn’t seen for 5 years. These first few chapters give us some history on both Vincent and Paul. We get to know them only a bit as we find ourselves moving forward to 2005. The siblings are working in a 5 star hotel at the northernmost tip of Vancouver Island, in the very community where they grew up. An act of vandalism at the hotel is the catalyst for the forging and cessation of relationships, and we don’t realize how intertwined all these characters are, until we near the end of the novel. A vicious Ponzi scheme, addiction, greed, wilderness, loneliness, loss and grief all form a complex narrative web that surrounds Vincent and Paul. The author has such a way with words, and evokes so much feeling and empathy for these people, even as we question their morals and motivation. “The Glass Hotel” manages to feel like a mystery or a thriller when really, I think it’s a meditation on the consequences of our actions, and the ripple effect of choices we make. You can try to hide from your ghosts, but they all catch up to you eventually.
The Green Isle Enterprise
Holistic Psychology, Health & Education By: Ralph D. Miller, Ph.D
Ganga to Ganges? After spending a few wonderful weeks visiting family friends in Lucknow and South India, Kathryn and I enjoyed a pleasant month in Rishikesh studying Vedanta, Sanskrit and yoga at the Swami Dayananda Ashram on the banks of the Holy River Ganges. Then came the COVID 19 Tsunami! Programs and classes were cancelled. The India National lockdown severely limited workers, all but life-essential shopping, and travel within and between states. Most buses, trains and planes were cancelled, including several of ours in India and our Air China return flights. We had a frustrating couple of weeks trying and failing to obtain reliable tickets. Eventually, the Canadian embassy arranged passage in India and very costly chartered flights home for stranded Canadians. Our adventure is further documented in the song ‘QUARANTINED!’—which from now on rhymes with ‘Clementine.’ Through some mysterious, as yet inexplicable time-warp, it appears that decades, if not centuries ago, many performers plagiarized much of our song, coincidentally often calling it something like, “My Darling Clementine.” What to do? Too late to sue!
QUARANTINED! Oh my Darlin,’ Oh my Darlin,’ Oh my Darlin,’ YOU’RE QUARANTINED! Till COVID’s lost and gone forever Dreadful sorry YOU’RE QUARANTINED! Flying in from South East Asia Delhi ticket number 9 Through London, England and Toronto We were met with YOU’RE QUARANTINED! Home from India Home from India Flying o’er Atlantic’s brine We were welcomed here in BC by the sound YOU’RE QUARANTINED! Keep Your Distance with persistence Wear Your Mask! —they don’t just ask! If you fail to follow orders
THE FISHBOWL • JUNE 2020 • PAGE 12
You may find that you get fined Doing no harm Cough in your arm And if you have got to sneeze Bend right over Smell the clover Bring your nose down to your knees Wash your hands, eh? Touch your face? NAY! Fever is a warning sign Stay ‘round your home Be a good gnome Tend your garden YOU’RE QUARANTINED! Keep IT at bay Not just one day CORONA 2-Zero-1-Nine You will be Locked Down till whenever Keep in mind YOU’RE QUARANTINED! Till COVID’s dead and gone forever Grin and Bear it YOU’RE QUARANTINED!
Ralph's roles include: extending-family guy, student/teacher, psychologist/scientist, musician/actor. ralph@islandroots.ca
Health with Hannah
Health Benefits of Cold Water! Are you familiar with cold water immersion as a strategy to build health and vitality? This is also known as cold hydrotherapy or cryotherapy. It has recently been popularized by Wim Hof, but this tool has been around for a long long time. This article is going to focus on the benefits of cold water, because this is one safe and socially-distant way we can benefit our health right now. Immersing yourself in cold water is a short term stressor on your body, and this triggers a variety of cellular responses that result in an overall net gain in resilience in your body. Here are some examples that have been established by the current research: It improves circulation (both cardiovascular and lymphatic) helping to flush waste products and bring new nutrients to your organs and tissues. It reduces insulin resistance so may be helpful as part of a strategy for balancing blood sugars. It increases your metabolic rate (when you practice it regularly over time). This can help you feel warmer, and may help you lose weight. Immersing your body in cold increases the production of mood elevating neurotransmitters (signalling molecules in your nervous system), and can be helpful for depression and anxiety. One of the most consistent effects of cold immersion in the research is an elevation in norepinephrine (NE) in particular. This is a neurotransmitter that has a role in focus, attention and mood and likely mediates the effect on mental health. Cold water immersion also reduces inflammation in a variety of ways, including by increasing the level of anti-inflammatory enzymes. This is important for many conditions. We now understand that inflammation is one of the contributing factors to depression - one of the ways this occurs is inflammatory molecules inhibit the release of serotonin (another neurotransmitter with a role in mood). Reducing inflammation generally could be a potent preventative strategy for mental health concerns. This is also shown to help reduce pain in arthritis. Cold water immersion can be done in many ways. Some of us have (socially distant) access to a lake or the ocean, but you can also do this in your shower or bath. In the shower, wash as usual and then turn the water to cold for an invigorating rinse at the end. Notice how it makes you feel! The amount of cold and duration can be modulated to what your body can handle. Please note: cold water therapy can be beneficial for many reasons, but there are also cases where this is NOT appropriate. Please speak with your health provider to discuss whether this is right for you! If you are struggling with your health right now and would like support, please reach out! At the time of writing my physical office space is closed, and I am instead seeing patients online for telemedicine consults. Please check my website for up to date information about how to connect!
By Dr. Hannah Webb, ND drhannahwebb.com | 250-999-9371
For Ever yone
Yoga
with Salt Spring Island teacher Dorothy Price
Understanding Your True Self Asmita is identified in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, as one of the five ‘Kleshas’ or ‘afflictions of the mind’. An affliction is defined as “a cause of persistent pain or distress or great suffering”. Asmita is when we falsely identify with our ever-changing self, in our everchanging world, instead of with our Higher Self. The true Self is described as the still place within us that never changes. A place of peace, truth and divine intelligence. This unchanging part of us is known as our higher Self, our authentic Self, our true Essence, our Inner Guide and the “Seer”. This part of us is able to observe how we are in ‘the world’. Yoga teaches us that our Essence remains stable no matter what happens around us or to us, or whether we feel connected with this part of us or not. If you only identify yourself with your occupation (or lack of), your relationship (or lack of), your health status, your weight, your age, etc. you are setting yourself up for pain and suffering because all of these things can, and will, change. In yoga, we recognize that none of those things affects our true Self – who we are at our core. As long as we understand that we will have an easier time with the challenges life presents us. The Self is unchanging and is ever-present in all beings. This is a place where some will feel a connection to God or Universe or Nature. So, how do we navigate through the changes; the many ups and downs that we must ride out? Patanjali says the more we connect to our authentic Self, the more easily we will cope with uncomfortable change in our daily life. We cannot alleviate all pain and suffering. Still, we can gain a deeper understanding of it and make it more manageable. Having a break from the world and all its stresses, in meditation or quiet reflective time, helps us to manage more easily. We will feel a sense of peace, no matter what happens in the outer world. It is like coming home to a safe harbour. There are a number of ways to experience this place of eternal peace. Meditation or a focused yoga session are common methods. Time spent in nature, singing, playing music, running, or any other activity you enjoy where you focus beyond just the physical body and connect more deeply with your inner Self will also work. A simple meditation to help you experience Higher Self Sit. Observe your natural breath. Let your exhale be longer than your inhale. With each exhale let any stressful thoughts and feelings in the mind and body fall away like a garment falls to the floor. What is left? Peace and a realization of the unchanging Self. Your relationship with Self can be strengthened in any mindful activity you choose. You know where I will be!
See you on the mat! ~ Dorothy
For weekly online classes see Dorothy’s Facebook page - Yoga with Dorothy Price and Santosha Yoga Retreats. Dorothy teaches yoga classes, pranayama, meditation & retreats locally & worldwide. Visit www.santosha-yoga-retreats.com or phone 250-537-7675
THE FISHBOWL • JUNE 2020 • PAGE 13
Dancing Alone Together Did you know that during this time of physical distancing people across the planet are still dancing together? Thanks to online platforms like Zoom and Mixlr, DJs and Conscious Dance Facilitators are able to keep their communities connected and dancing together from their own homes. As we all navigate these times of great change coming together virtually, moving & dancing together can help to manage living in the unknown. The body holds all that we live and experience, so it is wise to move. A walk in nature or a good shake can work wonders for the nervous system. When we intentionally meet online and dance together the benefits can be even greater, because we are reminded that we are not alone. Music, movement, connection & community are the best medicines around. Please join these local online dance offerings: Dancing Alone Together Online 5Rhythms Class with Shauna Devlin Wednesdays 9:00-10:00am PST ~ Zoom shaunadevlin.net | Register at: info@shaunadevlin.net AND Dance Temple ONLINE 3 Times a week with rotating facilitators each week! We are the Salt Spring and Victoria Dance Temple Facilitators: Lila Lyndsay, Alex King-Harris, Shauna Devlin, Cedar Mathias, Jazmin Love, Naomi Jason and Akinah Wilson Mondays & Thursdays 7:00-9:00pm PST | Opening Guidance at 7:30pm Sundays 10:15-12:00pm PST | Opening Guidance at 10:30am Listen (high def audio): https://mixlr.com/dance-temple/ Join us on Zoom (video only link posted in event) Facebook page: Dance Temple Livestream Events https://www.dancetemplesaltspring.com/
THE FISHBOWL • JUNE 2020 • PAGE 14
Scopes Brought to you by our own in-house astrologer who now goes by her numerologically correct name of “Ya Righta”
^ Aries
d Libra
We’re going to ease you back into society slowly. Today we want you to find a pair of pants without an elastic waist band, now brace yourself, tomorrow you’ll need to put them on.
You may think that starting fresh
_ Taurus
the real world has missed you,
You tend to be less true to yourself at work, but today you may let a little of yourself slip out at a most awkward moment.
***only if Bonnie Henry has said
` Gemini Your boss has missed your messy workspace and tardy start times. Welcome back to work, you may not last the week.
a Cancer The simple things in life will return to haunt you this week as you begin to return to “normal”.
b Leo You are finally ready to face the world as yourself this week, so don't be afraid of anything. We said don’t be afraid, you’ve got this.
on Monday would be of some comfort, but it really won't be.
e Scorpio We know you loved isolation but get out there, hug some friends… it is now safe to do so.
f Sagittarius You're generally hopeless with money, so this month’s bank statement shouldn’t come as a shock to you.
g Capricorn After months at home we’d have hoped you’d have accomplished at least 1 thing off the list! Too late, back to work! Maybe next Pandemic…
h Aquarius With all you've been through you should be glad that this week will actually come to a close.
c Virgo
i Pisces
After months of pant less Zoom meetings we urge you to take a moment before stepping out the front door today.
Exercise may seem like a dirty word, but until you lose some weight, it's the dirtiest word you're going to hear for a long time.
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