ISSUE 5.4 | APRIL 2014 | FREE
Featuring Willie Sellars the Service issue Pages 4 & 5 PAGE 2 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014 hear We want to hear from you! Email [email protected]
ISSUE 5.4 | APRIL 2014 | FREE Customer service the old fashioned way
By craig smith there are still some service little listening. stations that offer to pump I do believe the era of Service. Its dictionary your gas but none offer full- no service or self-service is definition has many mean- serve like they did not that going and a new time of over Featuring Willie Sellars ings. It can be a noun or a many years ago. the top customer service is the Service issue Pages 4 & 5 verb. You can do a service or I have found recently that fast approaching. have something serviced. It it’s not just our town, but When I go to the bank I can mean helping someone, everywhere that customer like to stand in line to talk to or how something is used. It service is lacking. It’s always a a teller, I like to get my gas can mean contributing to the treat to find someone in the pumped (If they’re quick defense of your country or a big stores that actually gives enough), I don’t like buffets church ceremony. It can be a the service that I know he and I detest automatic phone On the set of dishes or the first hit in has been trained to provide. systems where you have to a tennis game. Many times walking through punch in 20 numbers just to That is to say, like a lot some of these stores it’s hard get over to somebody’s voice of words in the English lan- thing nice for me one day.” It was in a big city and to find someone to help and mail. Cover: guage, there are a multitude Who does this anymore? always had a lineup. The the odd employee that you I would like to challenge of ways this word is used With our businesses, we lineup wasn’t because there see will at times avoid your any of the business owners every day. I have probably strive for excellence in cus- was a gas shortage but was gaze in case they have to stop in town that have forgotten Service in its used this word every day for tomer service but that day because of the service they what they are doing to help. what made them successful. many forms is all most of my life, whether it be I was taught a little lesson provided. When you pulled There are those that do Say hi to someone when they around us – quality the service at a restaurant, a about what it means to go up to the pump it didn’t mat- provide a canned version come in and have a conver- service is priceless. funeral service, my military above and beyond. ter how much gas you were of customer service with a sation rather than get them service, looking at the city’s I have been in business buying, the service was the scripted speech that has no in and get them out. Let the services or getting my vehicle for about twenty-five years same. Two attendants would personality added in to it. I’ve ringing phone go to voice serviced. now and have always tried run out to your vehicle, and actually had someone say to mail when you have a cus- I wanted to talk about my hardest to provide the I do mean run. They would me, “Did you find what you tomer in front of you. Carry service from a business point best customer service that I pump your gas, check your were looking for?” (I always their purchases out to their Deadline for of view, what we like to call possibly can. Sometimes you oil and fluids, check your feel I have to start singing a car, or at least offer. Smile customer service. get it right all day, but we are tires, wash your windows, U2 song when I hear that) and when someone asks you This morning I wrote an only human and sometimes wipe your dash down, and and when I said no they just how your day is going, say, Advertising: email to a local company that you get it wrong. if you wanted to step out of carried on as if I said yes. “It’s awesome!” Offer a coffee provided some amazing cus- What has changed that your vehicle, they would do To perform amazing if they have to wait and a The deadline for tomer service. My wife and has made customer service a quick vacuum and grab customer service I believe magazine or newspaper. The advertising in the I were headed to 100 Mile rare in most businesses? any garbage you wanted to that you have to really listen little things mean so much to next month’s issue of for a meeting. Just outside Have the owners forgotten get rid of. Once a month to your customer. When people and will make them The Stew Magazine of 150 Mile House our ve- what that means? Have the the owner would advertise they say that the meal is cold, want to come back. is the 21st of the cur- hicle made some very weird staff not been trained prop- Ladies Day and every lady don’t just say sorry but try to With spring on its way we rent month. Contact noises and started pulling to erly or have they forgotten? would also get a flower. hear what they want to solve will also be getting visitors us today to reserve one side. I turned the vehicle I have always been a When the owner retired the issue. Listening and pay- and the next time you see your spot — 250- around and pulled into a lo- voracious reader, mostly the new owner turned it into ing attention is the key. someone with a confused 398-7446 or email cally owned business. Their nonfiction about tech, self- a self-serve and the amount I have a buddy that is look trying to figure out [email protected]. staff dropped what they were improvement, and business. of business the owner did Jewish and as part of his where they are going, offer doing, took my vehicle for One of the very first books I took a nose dive. He became religious beliefs, he does not to help and they will always a test drive, ascertained the read was about over-the-top like most other gas stations eat pork or bacon. He told remember that the Cari- problem, fixed it and had me customer service. One of the around today, with a clerk me that over half of the time boo is a very friendly place back on the road in no time. examples it had was a gas now sitting behind a bullet he orders meals without with exceptional customer I went to pay and was told station, back then we used to proof piece of glass guarding bacon, it still shows up with service. “It’s okay, you can do some- call them service stations. the till. Don’t get me wrong, it. That can be solved with a April 2014 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 3 Nutrition Facts Serving Size: 24 pgs Servings Per Container 1
Amount Per Serving ingredients Calories 0 % Daily Value*
Service is an essential ingredient in this
magazine as we see the health, physical
and emotional benefits, as well as economic
in local and national perspectives. Service
does a body good!
Ingredients (or things that helped us get through the last month): Maybe one of the most important services that got us through this month was hydro and gas. With this cold weather linger- ing we were very happy with the utility company’s service to both home and work. Along with heat and lights this paper would have been a lot longer in Featuring coming without internet service. The Pages 4 & 5 service of the printers, delivery people, and vendors we could not do without. So take a great big serving of The Stew Willie Sellars and enjoy!
A look back in time Page 8 Service brings many thoughts to mind Page 6 Visit the Performances Greek Islands in the Park
Page 10 Page 15 PAGE 4 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014 flavour of the month craig smith photo MAN OF SERVICE u Willie Sellars is in- volved in helping his community in many ways. April 2014 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 5 flavour of the month Willie Sellars — a man of service By christa smith
Willie Sellars is a man of service and this month’s feature. Born and raised here in Wil- liams Lake, Willie’s passion for service to others has grown and evolved into almost every aspect of his life. Maybe most notable is his service to his community. Willie is a second-term councilor for the Williams Lake Indian Band. At 24 Willie was the youngest elected councilor in the Band’s history. Over the last four years he has tirelessly worked and dedicated his pas- sions to his community. As councilor, Willie cur- rently works closely with the Economic Development depart- ment as the Special Projects Co-coordinator. This posi- tion claims many duties and its diversity keeps Willie very busy. To mention just a few, Willie oversees Gibraltar and Mount Polley Mine silviculture, chipping projects, landscaping, hydro seeding, and many of the other jobs that other managers don’t have time to do. Maybe one of the most visual of Willie’s endeavors, is the new highway billboards that dress Willie’s true passion for life up to Peewee, and after taking the highway corridor between is seen in his eyes when he talks some time away from the sport Williams Lake and 150 Mile about the youth in his com- returned for four or five seasons House. As part of his Special munity. He has taken it upon for the Williams Lake Stamped- Projects Co-coordinator role, himself to be a role model for ers. he manages the construction youth and to share what he can “Hockey helped me grow and sale of these new marketing of his culture and traditions. and learn work ethic,” Willie pieces. “I’m trying to get the kids says, and now he hopes to be Quite arguably the most out of their comfort zones, in able to pass that on to the kids fun part of Willie’s portfolio front of the TV or video games,” he works with. could be the Coyote Rock Golf Willie says, he is trying to teach Two years ago he helped Course. Willie sits on its board the kids about the traditional start up the Lac La Hache of directors and oversees every- fishing spots, how to dipnet, Tomahawks senior hockey team thing at the course. After going prepare, and clean the fish. which is a great way for them to through a rebranding process “Once the youth get out and play competitive hockey. and beginning a new market- try it,” Willie says, “they really When not playing ice hockey ing campaign, the golf course is enjoy it, and during the fishing Willie is involved with the local making its way into the sights of season we live down there at the ball hockey team that just start- golf enthusiasts. r i v e r.” ed practicing for the upcoming “Our course is a nice in- “Just sitting at the river look- summer season. This sport is between; we have the small ing up into the sky, it’s just in a great way to get involved in pitch and putt and the country our blood.” hockey without all the skating. club,” says Willie. Willie says that it’s just fun “We have some talented The course is increasing its and there are so many life les- hockey players from our reserve popularity among golfers and sons to be learned. He not only that really shine when it comes has found its niche in the area. teaches the kids about tradi- to ball hockey, plus we stay in Willie attributes the success of tional fishing but also how to great shape.” and I would recommend it to his two kids. Coyote Rock Golf Course to the respect the river. Willie says that he enjoys any youth out there looking to The future looks bright for hard work of the greens crew Other aspects of how Willie any sport and has even tried his earn a great wage and see the this young and energetic man. and the other amazing people at gives back include his involve- hand at bullriding. country,” Willie reminisces. But With his passion and drive, I the course. Sitting on the sunny ment in minor hockey. Willie is Willie’s service to others had now his plans for the future are am sure we will see great things side of the lake, the views from the goalie coach for the Bantam a dangerous element in previ- bringing him a little safer and to come. the greens are breathtaking. Rep Williams Lake Timber- ous years as he was a wildland closer to home as Willie plans In light of service and talent, This true gem in the rocks is a wolves. Growing up, Willie firefighter for five seasons. “It to wed this September to his Willie is definitely a service to must-visit. played minor hockey himself was the best job in the world long-time love and mother of his community and to others. PAGE 6 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014
“The best way to find yourself is to we speak lose yourself in service to others” — Gandhi ‘Service’ brings many thoughts to mind
By christa smith good inside, I think. If it didn’t work this way I When I think of think that a lot of people service there are many would be waiting to feel different things that come that they were ready and to mind. I think of not perfect on the inside only service to others, before stepping out and service to country, and making a choice to be of the service that we all re- service to others. Think ceive on a daily basis, but of all the organizations also I think of service to and service industries that self. I don’t think that this would be without service is nearly as selfish as it providers and volunteers sounds, and I believe that if we all waited. Personal we have to work towards development is a lifelong maintaining a healthy journey and I think that sense of self. it is only enhanced and The old saying is, ‘you strengthened through ser- have to love yourself be- vice to others which leads fore you can love some- to service of self, in a way. one else.’ I wonder if this If you consider the falls into the same kind of theory or basic principle thinking when it comes of altruism, mankind to service. How can we exists solely to serve oth- serve others to the best of ers and has no right to our ability if we don’t start exist for his own sake, but with ourselves? rather the self-sacrifice I think that it goes for others. Now, based further than just stating on this theory service to that in order to help oth- self is nonexistent, and ers and be a service, you therefore in theory the have to be in a good place idea of loving yourself yourself. Do I mean that before being able to love we need to look to others another, is kind of out the like. Not to mention all of The only conclusion make the world a better April being the service for all of our values, self- window. the paid services that we that I am left to draw on place. If everyone on the month, here at The Stew esteem, and motivation We live in a world enjoy every day like in- is that, yes, service to self planet did one good deed we would like to take this to want to do good? No, I where, without service ternet, cable, utilities and is a journey that starts or participated in even a opportunity to thank all think that it is a partner- we would be in serious municipal services. The with an idea within, and small task of service every of the people that contrib- ship. Service to others trouble. Imagine the thought of living life with- through genuine partner- day, I am sure the chain ute, in any small or large may start with self, and devastation that would out services of any kind ship with others, grows reaction would be bigger way, to helping bring this a feeling of wanting to occur if all rescue ser- and many kinds sounds into something strong than we could imagine magazine together every serve, but I think that it vices, humanitarian more like a really scary and meaningful for both and the smallest change month. We thank all of grows and matures and services, aid, and relief movie. Now if I imagine the server and the served. for the better would grow. our readers, advertisers develops into something services suddenly did not the same thing only with Service to self is not It is easy to forget on and writers for their part great, as more of a part- exist. Imagine if volun- the opposite, where there selfish, it is a mechanism a daily basis how much as well, and mostly to nership or journey. teer agencies closed their are more services and for growth and personal we take for granted and all of you, who will take The more that we serve doors and all kind neigh- people go the extra mile development that leads to how many services that the next step in service the greater the feeling of bors no longer did good to serve, how much better wanting to share your- we use and enjoy and whether it be to self, oth- satisfaction and feeling deeds, what it would be that would be. self with others and help don’t think twice about. ers, or both. April 2014 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 7 read National Volunteer Week is April 6 to 12 A serving of books about service
Christa Smith Publisher & Editor Alphabet [email protected] Craig Smith Publisher & Sales Manager Soup [email protected] Joan Oliver By Caroline Derksen Advertising and Sales [email protected] Seabisquit) presents the stan along with the story of Louie Zam- internal wars in Penta- perini, an accomplished gon bureaucracy. It is Renée Lozeau champion racer who revealing, informative, Advertising Design & Prepress competed in the Berlin possibly self-serving, Centre Stage Olympics, who joined but ultimately evoca- the Army Air Corps as tive. Thomas E. Ricks a bombardier in 1941. of the New York Times Todd Sullivan After his B-24 crashed book review has cred- Layout into the Pacific in May ited this book as “one Gaming Life 1943, he spent 47 days of the best Washington [email protected] adrift on a shark-encir- memoirs ever”. Jamie Horsley cled life raft with friend Tone Soup and pilot Russell Allen “Phil” Phillips. Cap- tured by the Japanese, The birth of the West: Planning a wedding they were sent into the Brice O’Neill Rome, Germany, France, service and you want to Japanese POW camp Out of the Fridge and the creation of Europe do it on your terms? This network, also known as in the tenth century (2013) is the book for you. the ‘theatre of cruelty’. Collins, Paul Egan constructs this A remarkable account Ever wondered what guidebook by outlining of military service, Darren Smith church service was like in three steps: firstly, figur- written with excep- Adrenaline Fix the tenth century? Author ing out what you want, tional skill, it has been Paul Collins (an ordained secondly, figuring out a bestseller since its Catholic priest and radio how to do it, and thirdly, publication in Novem- and TV presenter) will figuring out how to deal ber 2010. Gina Mawson walk you through the Dark with the people criticizing The Customer You, Me and We Ages in this outstandingly the decisions you made in Rules: The 39 Essential detailed account of life and Steps One and Two. Rules for Delivering politics in the tenth century. Chock full of pragmat- Sensational Service Collin’s combines lively nar- ic strategies to deal with (2013) Caroline Derksen ratives, with vivid character the emotional quandaries Cockerell, Lee Alphabet Soup sketches, to illuminate the of being a bride. Lee Cockerell, underpinnings of Medieval former Executive Vice society in a way that is both President of Disney engaging and scholarly. World, has shared his Cathie Hamm list of indispensable Behind The Curtain and universal rules for serving customers in 39 palatable bite-sized chapters. Cockerell Sage Birchwater Duty: memoirs of a outlines why these Looking Back Secretary at war (2014) principles are as ef- Gates, Robert Mi- fective for large scale chael, 1943 companies as they are Gates served as the for local coffee shops. Secretary of Defense Examples include: Rule THE STEW Magazine is an independently owned and operated monthly in 2006 until 2011, and #1: Customer Service arts, entertainment, recreation and leisure magazine published in the Unbroken: A World served both the Bush Is Not a Department, Cariboo. All information contained in this magazine is correct to the best War II Story of Sur- and Obama administra- Rule #5: Ask Yourself of our knowledge. Opinions expressed by contributors are not neccessarily those of The Stew or its employees. We reserve the right to edit articles for vival, Resilience, and tions. His new memoir “What Would Mom Do? grammar, punctuation, or length. The Stew’s advertising customers assume How to have the wed- Redemption (2010) Duty: memoirs of a Rule #25. Treat Every sole responsibility for correctness of their advertising – we require approval in writing of each ad before it is published. We reserve the right ding you want: (not the Hillenbrand, Laura Secretary at war, details Customer like a Regular to refuse any advertising or editorial submission which we believe to be one everybody else wants This wrenching ac- his attempts to manage and Rule #39: Don’t Try inconsistent with the philosophy of this publication. The content of this you to have) (2014) count by Laura Hillen- the Pentagon and wars Too Hard. publication are copyright The Stew Magazine. Egan, Christine brand (who also wrote in Iraq and Afghani- PAGE 8 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014
“History will be kind to me for I intend to write it.” hear – Winston Churchill A look back in time Tommy Hodgson he was six or seven years a small kid it’s kind of made a name for himself old. an eerie sort of feeling. as a pioneer trucker in “It was around 1926 I guess they had a bit of the Chilcotin. and we stayed overnight homebrew, I don’t know. Born in Yorkshire with Old Bob Pyper at By daylight it kind of England in 1885, he Chilanko Forks. He had quietened right down.” came to Canada with quite a big store, and By the time Wilf his parents in 1897, Arthur Haddock the fur was 17, he was driving and moved to 150 Mile buyer was there. It was regularly for his dad. House in 1912 to take a Easter time and the priest One very cold winter job driving the weekly was coming. When the day in 1937 he arrived at mail run to Alexis Creek. He was driving for In- land Express Company. With the outbreak of the First World War in 1914, Tommy dutifully enlisted for service in the Canadian army, but was turned down because of varicose veins. He took over the Alexis Creek u Stuck in the Chilcotin mud, 1948 mail contract on his own and continued trucking into the Chilcotin for the rest of his life until his priest came in those days Chilanko Forks with the staring at me out the death in 1945. it was big excitement.” mail and a few groceries window. He didn’t move. Tommy married Edyth Chilanko Forks was for Bob Pyper. The place Then I realized he was Paxton in 1915, and the just west of Redstone was strangely silent. dead. I had to get in the couple had six children. Flats where Father Fran- “Old Pyper was the house and phone Andy There were three sons, cois Marie Thomas was only one living between Stuart at Redstone.” Jack, Wilfred, and Patrick holding the big gathering Redstone and Tatla Lake Eventually Provin- (Cookie); and three known as Priest Time. in those days,” Wilf said. cial Police officer Bill daughters Phyllis, Marjo- Tsilhqot’in families con- “The old fellow had a Broughten, stationed at rie, and Betty Jean. verged on Pyper’s store store there for years, then Alexis Creek, came out to The Hodgson sons to sell their winter catch somebody burned the retrieve Pyper’s body. He all drove for their father of furs before heading for store down. I guess he hired Hank Law to help as soon as they were the religious celebration. didn’t have any insur- him. big enough to reach the “They came with their ance, so he went broke. “He paid me $3.20 to pedals. When Tommy horses, packhorses and “I knocked at the be a policeman for a day,” Hodgson died in 1945, wagons,” Wilf remem- door and he wouldn’t Hank grimaced. “They Wilf Hodgson and his bered. “Nobody came in answer,” Wilf continued. could shoot at you for brother-in-law Joe Gillis cars. It was big excite- “There was no smoke that. We had to go in and took over the freight line ment. I remember at coming out of the chim- get Old Pyper. until they sold the busi- night they played lahal ney so I went around “He was in his under- ness in 1962. right by Pyper’s store. to the side of the house wear froze stiff as a board Wilf Hodgson recalled All night long you’d hear and looked through the across the table in his old u Bob Pyper, right accompanying his father these Indians wailing window. There was Old shack on the road before into the Chilcotin when away there. When you’re Pyper sitting in his chair you get to Pyper Lake.” April 2014 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 9 hear April 25 is Pay It Forward Day. Check out Pay It Forward Day Canada on Facebook In consideration of others and ourselves We’ve all heard the even at all. Rather, statement, “It is better the little things, much to give than to re- more so than extrava- ceive.” However, when gances, seem to be a it comes to giving and part of what provides receiving in relation- stability to the foun- ships it should ideally dation of a lasting and be reciprocal. At the mutually satisfying heart of the relation- relationship. ship both partners Take the time to do should be giving just little things for your as much as they are partner in your day- receiving so it is an to-day life that will even playing field. be appreciated and If one partner does make him or her feel all the giving or the valued, and you will majority of it, a power see a positive impact imbalance is created on the health of your in the relationship. relationship. When one partner Grand gestures is constantly giving are nice, don’t get and receives very little me wrong, but they in return it can leave should be the icing of instability occur, healthy relationship that partner feeling on an already fabu- as long as both people should look like from unappreciated and un- lous cake. The day to are willing to get back a practical standpoint, important. Those feel- day ingredients like to the basics. You, Me we provide them with ings are very powerful respect, generosity, Another great side skills and tools that and can ultimately forgiveness, caring, benefit to couples go- will have a real depth lead to the downfall of kindness, compro- ing about their daily of meaning and will a relationship, so it is mise, intimacy, con- life with the attitude and We take them far inter- important to pay close nectedness, and com- that ‘mutuality is what personally. attention to what your munication all work it is all about’ is the The act of giving partner is needing in together to create the role model it offers to doesn’t stop just at ro- return from you. And base of the cake, or the next generation. By Gina Mawson mantic relationships, be aware that it may rather, the founda- When children see but models how we not be a direct reflec- tion for a strong and their parents show- should treat everyone tion of what you are healthy relationship. ing generosity and a daughters and they short-term relation- we are in relationship being given, because A cake with basic natural give and take are being taught to ships). They get to with; whether that is a each individual in a ingredients miss- in the relationship, have high standards experience modelling good friend, a grand- relationship may have ing tastes awful or children are exposed for the treatment they of how to be a gener- mother, a co-worker, a different perception just falls flat, and the to what a healthy re- will receive in future ous partner and how or a sibling. Making of what makes that same can be said of a lationship should look relationships, and just to expend their efforts the effort pays off in person feel valued. relationship with ele- like. how valuable they are. on the behalf of some- the long run when we I’ve always enjoyed ments missing. Even- A prime example Children who get one else. By showing are able to maintain discovering how cou- tually, the relationship of this is a family I a chance to see how our children what a healthy relationships. ples who have been will be distasteful, un- know where the father they should expect together for a long satisfying, and could makes the children to be treated have time have managed collapse. But the good and their mother a higher chance of to keep the mutual- news is that it is pos- breakfast in bed on being successful in ity of giving alive in sible to keep work- a regular basis. He relationships (whether their relationships. ing at the day to day happens to have all that relates to long or The one great thing elements of a great I have discovered is relationship and bring that giving does not about changes that have to be done on shore up the founda- the ‘grand gesture’ tion of a relationship scale all the time, or if and when periods PAGE 10 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014 do “Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” — Mother Teresa Geia soy file moy / Hello my friend! A trip to the Greek Islands
By Christiane Klein of tiny red-roofed church- Freedom and be amazed & Sylvia Rashbrook es add to the scenery. The by the mosaic of different people of Mykonos are cultures and civilizations. Did you know that friendly and open and It is rare that visitors there are 6,000 islands understand what it means have such a chance of and islets scattered in the to have a good time. experiencing a stroll Aegean and Ionian Seas? Mykonos has often within medieval walls and Two-hundred-twenty- been named “The Jewel exploring 24 centuries seven of those islands are of the Aegean Sea”. It is a of history. The medieval, inhabited; this is a truly year-round destination fortress-like buildings, unique phenomenon for with the sun shining for the bastions, walls, gates, the European Continent. as many as three hundred narrow alleys, minarets, Sixteen thousand km of days a year. During the old houses, fountains, coast lines offer a diversi- summer months the tem- tranquil and busy squares, fied landscape such as perature may occasionally make you feel like you beaches stretching over reach the upper 30s, but, have stepped back into many kilometres, shel- due to the cooling factor medieval times. What an tered bays and coves. You of the frequent winds, an adventure! will find sandy beaches average of 28 degree Cel- Now, let us travel to with sand dunes, pebble sius can be expected. the island of Santorini. beaches, coastal caves, Rhodes is called the Cousteau looked here for and steep rocks as well as Island of Knights due to the lost city of Atlantis. dark-coloured sand typi- the fact that in 1309 the Santorini is also called the cal of volcanic soil and Knights of Saint John precious gem of the Ae- coastal wetlands. of Jerusalem conquered gean in the most south- Some of the oldest Rhodes from the Byz- ern part of the Cyclades. European civilizations antine Empire. In 1948 The whole complexity of developed on the Greek Rhodes became officially Santorini Islands is that it Islands (Cycladic, Minoan a part of Greece. In 1988 is still an active volcano to mention a couple), the Medieval City of and probably the only one spectacular rock forma- Palace of Knossos which slightly up in the hills that gives these islands Rhodes was listed as a in the world whose crater tions and the impressive has partly been rebuilt to from the new town. It has a unique archaeological UNESCO World Heritage is in the sea. lunar landscapes. The give you an impressive a maze of narrow streets, perspective. site. It is an enormously For the foodie under only option to reach and idea of how it looked in which are lined with old Today we will take you popular Island because of the travelers this island is see Santorini is by ship. the ancient days. traditional houses, man- to four of those islands. the ancient architecture the ultimate gastronomic There are many cruise The Cities of Chania, sions, hotels, and Greek Our tour will take you to and history. experience as the island lines which provide this Rethymno, Malia, and taverns. Here you will Mykonos, Rhodes, San- Rhodes is an island is a true culinary para- passage. Sitia with their coastlines meet the most fascinat- torini, and, my personal which is ideal not only dise. Here you will find Not far away from are very much catering ing and friendly Greek favourite one, the island for the tourist that would some famous traditional Santorini, just an hour towards tourism. But if people. of Crete. like to relax, it is also a products like cherry by hovercraft boat, is the you take the time to visit Minoan Palace of Mykonos is a grand ex- paradise for the travellers tomatoes, white eggplant, Island of Crete, which is the old city centers you Malia is a very interesting ample of the Cycladic ar- that love an action packed fava, caper and ‘Holro my favourite island of all. will disover the luxury place to visit. This palace chitecture. Whitewashed vacation. With its bright Tyri’ which is a special Arriving either by plane of old Venitian Villas in is the third largest Mino- cube-like buildings fit green hills, rich green kind of fresh goat cheese at the Heraklion Airport Chania. In Rethymno an Palace in Crete. There closely together to form a valleys and uninterrupted only found on Santorini. or by ship at the Harbour you can take a lazy stroll is so much to see and to maze of narrow alleyways line of golden beaches Excellent wines are of- of Heraklion, this city is along the old section with experience on this largest and streets. You will enjoy Rhodes is a truly blessed fered, made from the fruit bustling with life. You the Castle and the sandy island. I could carry on the aura of an incredibly place. grown in the volcanic soil have the instant feeling beaches. Sitia is a little and on writing about it, if blue sky and even deeper You can not miss out of this island. Some of the that you are in the middle quieter but still beauti- you are interested to hear blue sparkling sea. on visiting the Old City island’s wineries operate of Greek life as it has been ful to visit because of more about it, just come The well-preserved of Rhodes which you will as museums and restau- for centuries. its unique cafes and the in and see me at All-Ways windmills and hundreds enter through the Gate of rants as well. Reaching Heraklion by beach. Travel. Ask for Chris. While on Santorini you boat you will be greeted Malia is in a newer For now I say kalispera can enjoy the deep blue by the Venetian fortress part of Town and is very (good day) and I hope waters and beaches with Koules at the harbour much tourist oriented. you will read my next ar- white, red or black sand gate. While in Heraklion But, the Malia Old Town ticle that will take you to as well as beaches with you can visit the Archaeo- section is a small tra- Mauritius and Madagas- volcanic pebbles. See the logical Museum and the ditional town, situated car in the Indian Ocean. April 2014 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 11
craig smith photo PATIENTLY AWAITING THE GREEN OF SPRING u Spring 2013 at Scout Island in Williams Lake Play
Your guide to where to go and what to do for the month of April PAGE 12 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014 play Submit your event to [email protected].
WILLIAMS LAKE April 4 Horsin’ Around in the WL Minor Fastball April 16 April 24 Cariboo @ The Eagle View Registration @ Walmart April 1 Station House Gal- Equestrian Centre 10am 10am-2pm Williams Lake Bull Show Busted Remedy Jam lery 2014 exhibit: ‘What to 1pm @ Stockyard Night, Thursdays at the OV Rhyme and Roll Parent and Wear?’ Where Art, Fashion Cariboo Festival Vocal Amber Bowen CD Pub @ 9:30pm Tot Playgroup, Every Tuesday and Stories Collide @ 10am & Choral Performances @ Release Party at New April 17 10:30am-11:30am @ Child Station House Gallery St.Andrews United Church World Coffee & Tea House April 25 Care Resource and Referral 9am-8:40pm 2-4pm Williams Lake Bull Sale Ladies Singing Group @ 11am @ Stockyard Ladies Singing Group @ Cariboo Festival Band & St. Peters Anglican Church April 8 April 13 St. Peters Anglican Church Instrumental Performances 7:30pm-9pm Busted Remedy Jam 7:30pm-9pm 9am @ Lake City Secondary Rhyme and Roll Parent and Big Brothers & Big Night, Thursdays at the OV 1pm @ Columneetza. Featur- Urinetown: The Musical Tot Playgroup, Every Tuesday Sisters Bowl For Kids Sake Pub @ 9:30pm Thomas from Family ing band/instrumental, piano, @ WL Studio Theatre 8pm 10:30am-11:30am @ Child 2014 @ Cariboo Lanes Rocks (Crystals & Gem- speech arts, vocal/choral and Care Resource and Referral 11am-3pm April 18 stones) @ Hobbit House creative writing. Visit www. April 5 10am-7pm cariboofestival.ca for perfor- Williams Lake Ladies Soc- Gymkhana @ Eagle Ladies Singing Group @ mance locations and schedules. Urinetown: The Musical cer Annual General Meeting @ View Equestrian Centre St. Peters Anglican Church April 26 @ WL Studio Theatre 8pm LCSS 7pm 11am-2pm 7:30pm-9pm Workshop on Meno- Cariboo Festival Hon- pause 12pm to 1pm, lunch is Duck’s Unlimited Dinner Trisport Sport’s Program of April 14 Williams Lake Indoor ours Concert @ Cariboo provided. Call 250-392-4118 Fundraiser @ Elks Hall 5p floor hockey, t-ball, and soccer, Rodeo @ Williams Lake Bethel Church 7pm-9pm to register. doors open, 6pm dinner. ages 4-5 @ 4:45pm-6:30pm Cariboo Festival Piano Memorial Complex 6pm Tickets available at FBB Cariboo Memorial Recre- Performances @ Calvary April 28 April 2 (above Caribou Ski) ational Complex Church 9am-6pm April 19 Transition Town film Urinetown: The Musical @ Horsin’ Around in the Cariboo Festival Vocal April 15 Williams Lake Indoor “Grow” showcases a new WL Studio Theatre 8pm Cariboo Horse Events @ & Choral Performances @ Rodeo @ Williams Lake generation of market The Eagle View Equestrian St. Andrews United Church Rhyme and Roll Parent Memorial Complex 1pm farmers@ Central Cariboo Cariboo Festival Speech Centre 10am 9am-7pm and Tot Playgroup, Every Arts Center (old fire hall) Arts & Drama Performances Tuesday 10:30am-11:30am Barrel Race @ Eagle 6:30pm @ the Calvary Church 9am- Barrel Race @ Eagle View April 10 @ Child Care Resource View Equestrian Centre 3:40pm Equestrian Centre 1pm-3pm and Referral 1pm Crafting with Recycling Busted Remedy Jam Night, – learn a new way to craft April 3 April 6 Thursdays at the OV Pub @ Cariboo Festival Piano Easter Petting Zoo & with recycled materials. 9:30pm Performances @ Calvary Cake Walk @ Boitanio Mall 6:30pm – 8pm Call 250- Urinetown: The Musical @ Nutrition Fun Walk & Church 9am-2:15pm 10am-2pm 392-4118 to register WL Studio Theatre 8pm Run @ Cariboo Memorial April 11 Complex 11am Performances in the April 20 April 29 Cariboo Festival Speech Ladies Singing Group @ Park 2014 performer and Arts & Drama Performances Horsin’ Around in the St. Peters Anglican Church vendor application dead- Williams Lake Indoor Rhyme and Roll Parent @ the Calvary Church 9am- Cariboo @ The Eagle View 7:30pm-9pm line. Applications and info Rodeo @ Williams Lake and Tot Playgroup, Every 1:45pm Equestrian Centre 10am at www.centralcaribooarts. Memorial Complex 1pm Tuesday 10:30am-11:30am Scout Island Fundraising com/events/performanc- @ Child Care Resource and Busted Remedy Jam Night, April 7 Banquet @ St. Andrews United espark.html April 22 Referral Thursdays at the OV Pub @ Church Tickets are available at 9:30pm Senior’s Bingo @ Upper Scout Island or the Open Book Human Trafficking Rhyme and Roll Parent QUESNEL Level of Boitanio Mall 1pm Committee Meeting Tues- and Tot Playgroup, Every April 12 day 12pm to 1pm at the Tuesday 10:30am-11:30am April 4 Women’s Contact Centre. @ Child Care Resource and Big Brothers & Big Sisters Call 250-392-4118 for Referral Moustache Madness ~ Bowl For Kids Sake 2014 @ more information Roller Derby Bout @ Ques- Cariboo Lanes noon-10pm nel Twin Arena 6pm Tick- ets $10, kids 10 and under are free! The Gold Pain City Derby Girls will be playing the Rated PG Rollergirls from Prince George
Kersley Players present “ Tales from Me and Irmie” Starts Friday April 4 @ 6pm at the Kersley Hall Dinner Theatre Tickets 25$ avail- able at Cariboo Propane and Kersley Store
April 5
Quesnel Commu- nity Foundation Gala @ 5:30pm-10pm Quesnel Senior’s Centre April 2014 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 13 play NEW DVD / BLU-RAY RELEASES Roller Derby Bout @ April 12 Quesnel Live Arts April 12 TITLE RELEASE DATE 6pm Quesnel Twin Arenas Performances-Everything 47 Ronin 1-Apr Quesnel Festival of Per- Fitz @ Chuck Mobley Theatre Cariboo Reginal Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues 1-Apr Unseemly Evenings forming Arts Piano Perfor- 7:30pm District Library 100 Presents: Caribooby Caba- mances @ Lakeview Church Mile House hosts How At Middleton 1-Apr ret @ 8pm-10:30pm Gold April 27 to Download Library E- Knights of Badassdom 1-Apr Pan City Dance Quesnel Festival of books 10-11:30am call for Little Rascals, The Save the Day 1-Apr Performing Arts Speech & Bowl For Kids Sake 2014 info 250-395-2332 Orphan Black - Season 1 1-Apr April 7 Dramatic Arts @ École Baker Quesnel @ Rev Bowling Seal Team 8: Behind Enemy Lines 1-Apr Elementary School Lanes 9am Darts Tournament Dummy Downhill @ Forest Grove Legion. August: Osage County 8-Apr Quesnel @ Troll Resort River City Music Associa- Begbie’s on Sunday: Open Entry fee $10. Registra- Bad Ass 2: Bad Asses 8-Apr 10am tion open mic night @ Quesnel Mic @ Begbie’s Pub 4pm-8pm tion 9am-10am. Toe Line Blood Alley 8-Apr Elks Lodge 7-11pm 11am, Potluck Lunch. Grudge Match 8-Apr Nutrition in the Cariboo 100 MILE HOUSE Info contact Rene or Ruth Info Fair @ College of New April 13 at 250-791-7348 Hobbit, The: The Desolation Of Smaug 8-Apr Caledonia 10:30am-2:30pm April 3 Justin Bieber's Believe 8-Apr Quesnel Festival of Per- April 22 Knight Of The Dead 8-Apr April 9 forming Arts Piano Perfor- South Cariboo Chamber Lizzie Borden Took An Ax 8-Apr mances @ Lakeview Church of Commerce Annual Gen- Festival of the Arts Nurse 8-Apr Chamber Board Meeting eral Meeting @ The Valley April 22-May2 @ Martin Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones 8-Apr @ 12pm Chamber of Com- April 17 Room 12-1:30pm, lunch Exeter Hall merce provided Snake & Mongoose 8-Apr Where the Rivers Meet: April 26 After The Dark 15-Apr The Little Mermaid 6pm Country Bluegrass Jamboree @ April 5 Better Living Through Chemistry 15-Apr @ Chuck Mobley Theatre 10am Quesnel Senior’s Centre Steve Elliott’s Tribute Black Nativity 15-Apr Prenatal in a Day 9am- to Elvis and Dance @ Lac Bev Sellars “They Call April 18 4pm @ Cariboo Family La Hache. Please check Date and Switch 15-Apr Me Number One” Heritage Enrichment Center with the South Cariboo Flowers in the Attic 15-Apr Speaker Series @ Quesnel Where the Rivers Meet: Visitor Centre for info. Gabby Douglas Story, The 15-Apr City Hall 7-8:30pm Country Bluegrass Jamboree @ Fun Day at the Forest Invisible Woman, The 15-Apr 10am Quesnel Senior’s Centre Grove Curling Club 10am- Elvis is Coming Sat- Miss In Her Teens 15-Apr April 10 4pm (bring clean shoes). urday, April 26, 2014 @ Nut Job, The 15-Apr April 19 Contact Chris for info 250- 8pm-12am Forest Grove Quesnel Film Club 397-2892 Community Hall Philomena 15-Apr Presents “Enemy” 6:30pm Where the Rivers Meet: Ride Along 15-Apr @ Cariboo Theatre Country Bluegrass Jamboree @ April 8 April 29 Secret Life Of Walter Mitty, The 15-Apr 10am Quesnel Senior’s Centre Quesnel Festival of Cariboo Reginal District Sustainable Commu- Bag Man, The 22-Apr Performing Arts Piano April 20 Library 100 Mile House hosts nity Film Series presents Big Bad Wolves 22-Apr Performances @ Lakeview How to Download Library “Surviving Progress” 7pm Smoked (2012) 22-Apr Church Where the Rivers Meet: E-books 10-11:30am call for @ Community Employ- Suspect, The 22-Apr Country Bluegrass Jamboree @ info 250-395-2332 ment Center Horton April 11 10am Quesnel Senior’s Centre Ventures discussion to A Case Of You 29-Apr April 10 follow. Bad Country 29-Apr Quesnel Festival of April 22 Devil's Due 29-Apr Performing Arts Piano Dry Grad Fashion Show April 30 Labor Day 29-Apr Performances @ Lakeview Quesnel Volunteer Citizen Cutting Edge Fashion En- Legend of Hercules, The 29-Apr Church Banquet 2014 @ Quesnel tertainment & Live Music @ 8:30am PSO Dry Grad Legion 5:30pm doors open, 7pm 100 Mile House Junior Raffle @ Exeter Sporting Quesnel Festival of 6pm dinner Secondary School Gym. Goods or the 108 Esso Performing Arts Speech Tickets available: The Outlaw, & Dramatic Arts @ École Didi’s, The Log House and Baker Elementary School Pharmasave PAGE 14 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014
The Canadian Services Sector employs three out of every four people do and accounts for two-thirds of the gross domestic product. Make plans to attend the 24th Annual Indoor Rodeo Are you ready to Thunder Drill Team and Rodeo? Dust off those the Williams Lake Stam- Schedule of Events Saturday, April 19 sponsored by Adventure cowboy hats and polish pede Royalty in grand Friday, April 18 9am Rodeo Slack Charters. A reminder, do not your boots, spring is here entry. Local talent will 9am to 11am in the Free to the public drink and drive, take the and with it comes the entertain you with the dirt Williams Lake (includes the rodeo events safe ride home or call a taxi 24th Annual Williams Maureen Saunders School Indoor Rodeo hosts a that have too many people or friend who has not been Lake Indoor Rodeo on of Dance, and Sassy cowboy carnival. entered to run them all dur- drinking. April 18, 19, and 20. The Six Gun and Porcupine This free event is geared ing the rodeo performance). weekend will be action- mounted shooters. towards kids under 10. Chil- Breakfast 8-11am with Sunday, April 20 packed with plenty of This year the Indoor dren must be accompanied the Lions Club in the small Take the family for great local and out of Rodeo will feature Dennis by an adult. Try stick barrel arena. Easter Sunday Brunch in town entertainment, fresh Halstead, Rodeo Clown racing, dummy roping, buck- 12pm doors open the small arena hosted by rodeo stock, and several and Barrel Man from Al- ing bull barrels, bean bag with rodeo action at 1pm Lions club 9:30am-noon. food and merchandise berta. Dennis has many toss, coloring, meet the clown Opening act is Sassy Six 12pm doors open vendors. years of entertaining in and much more. Guns and Porcupine. Watch with rodeo action start- Stop by the rodeo of- front of rodeo fans young Rodeo. Earl and Roy Call 5pm doors open with our Local talent put on a ing at 1pm fice (opens April 4) in the and old. Dennis brings co-owners of C+ have a rodeo action beginning display of mounted shooting. Opening act is Sassy Six upper level of the Boi- unique enthusiasm and strong rodeo background. at 6pm West Coast Thunder Drill Guns and Porcupine. Watch tanio Mall to pick up your high energy shows into Roy Call is the manager Opening Act Maureen Team, and Williams Lake our Local talent put on a rodeo tickets, barn dance the arena for each perfor- who oversees much of Saunders School of Dance. Stampede Royalty. display of mounted shooting. tickets, raffle tickets, and mance. From his many the day to day operations West Coast Thunder Drill Vendors: Indoor Rodeo, West Coast Thunder Drill to check out the merchan- small animals to his crazy on the ranch. Earl Call is Team, and Williams Lake High school rodeo, P3 Cre- Team, and Williams Lake dise. machines, he is guaran- C+ Rodeo’s main pick-up Stampede Royalty. ations, Bob’s Shoe & Repair, Stampede Royalty. Brett Gardiner, teed to make you laugh. man and bull fighter. This 5pm Beer Gardens Reliable Home Solutions, etc. Vendors: Indoor Rodeo, 2011/2013 Canadian Pro Without great stock family-run operation not open Food including mini donuts, High school rodeo, P3 Cre- Rodeo (CPRA) Announc- and their handlers there is only provides stock for 9pm music starts with coffee, and Tasty Tube Steaks. ations, Bob’s Shoe & Repair, er of the Year, will host no rodeo. C+ Rodeo con- rodeos, they provide op- Rockin’ Chair until 1am 9pm Barn Dance Reliable Home Solutions, etc. the Williams Lake Indoor tinues to start off the ro- portunities for local youth Safe ride home offered by Budweiser is back. Food including mini donuts, Rodeo. deo season in the Cariboo to try their hand at rough Adventure Charters Music by the talented Lee coffee, and Tasty Tube Steaks. Each day will open providing award-winning stock rodeo events in a by donation. Dinwoodie. Safe rides home with the West Coast stock for the Indoor controlled environment.
FRASER BEVZ BROUGHTON Chartered Accountants LLP April 2014 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 15 do Happy Birthday Queen Elizabeth II, queen of England, born April 21, 1926 Spotlight on Performances in the Park THE STEW MAGAZINE’S Taking the ‘Stage’ for The Stew’s Service issue is the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society Monthly (CCACS], a registered non-profit service organi- zation whose mandate is to facilitate the develop- ment of arts and culture in MIX the Cariboo. The CCACS hosts a rich variety of arts and cultural activities in the Central Cariboo Arts Centre, which is home to the Williams Lake Spin- ners, Weavers and Fibre Artists’ Guild, the Cari- boo Potters’ Guild, and the Cariboo Art Society, and which is available for use for events, meetings, HolidayS performances, workshops, and more. In addition to serving more than 70 Lake’s well-attended series of the existing independent arts bring high quality, family- and cultural groups, the friendly entertainment society administers an an- to the public for free, but Centre month nual small project grants Performances in the Park program, and has recently also provides an opportu- developed the Central nity for local performers Stage April 14 is International Cariboo Art Route. to gain experience and The CCACS also exposure. Two acts are Moment of Laughter Day oversees Performances in featured each week; the the Park, an outdoor, free 6 pm time slot usually By Renée Lozeau International Moment of Laughter Day will put a concert series which takes showcases youth, theatre, place Thursday evenings dance, music, poetry, big smile on your face. The objective of this day is from 6 to 8 pm through- magic etc., and is followed CCACS is accepting appli- and performance types. to get people to laugh, and to laugh more often. out the summer, from by a headline act at 7 pm cations from food vendors “We want to do what we July 3 to August 21 at the which is reserved for sea- and entertainers of every can to make sure [the After all, “laughter is the best medicine”. Gwen Ringwood Theatre soned performers. type to fill the Perfor- event] is a good time,” in Boitanio Park in Wil- “In the early time mances in the Park 2014 explains Angela. liams Lake. slot I try to encourage schedule. “I would like to Information and ap- April 20 is Volunteer Performances in the young people and not- encourage food vendors plications are available Recognition Day Park has been around for so-seasoned artists just to to apply, as well as people online at www.centralcari- over 10 years, and this is learn; get them on stage, that do aerobatics, dance, booarts.com or contact Volunteer Recognition Day honors the legions of the third year the event get them used to being [in comedy, poetry or magic, Performances in the Park has been managed by the front of an audience] and for example, to apply too, Coordinator Angela Som- volunteers who dedicate themselves to causes CCACS. However; many help them ‘get out there’. so that there is variety.” mer at performances@ and helping others. They are making big and small other communities host “This is a very forgiving “We’d also love to see centralcaribooarts.com similar free weekly art audience.” kids’ entertainment like 250-305-4784. differences in the lives of millions of people all over and culture events. Each Angela sees a diverse juggling and clowns. Even I’d like to thank Angela the world. They are saving lives. They are improving community’s event varies well of talent in the area if you think you can’t fill and the CCACS for the widely in its variety of and she is working to the 40 minute time slot, work they are doing to lives and providing comfort. They assist people, performers and caliber of encourage those hidden I want to encourage you provide entertainment animals, and nature. entertainment, depending gems to come forward to still to apply. Four ten- to our community, and on their available budget. be seen and heard. minute acts for example for helping our local These community events Last year’s Performanc- could be organized to- entertainers take ‘Centre are usually funded in part es in the Park included gether into a combined Stage’. When communities by the City and Regional talented headliners tour- show,” Angela suggests. support local performers, District, and commu- ing from as far afield Within the event’s the result is the exposure, nity donors too are a big as Robert’s Creek and available budget, selection the encouragement, and part of the fundraising Vancouver. is based on criteria such as the experience these acts pie. “[This year’s com- Watch for the Williams the quality and entertain- need to open the door to munity] fundraising is Lake performance sched- ment value of the perfor- opportunity. beginning to receive a ule, published in advance, mance, and stage setups I’m looking forward good response,” remarks complete with descrip- that mesh with other acts to heading out to the park Performances in the Park tions of the entertainment on that particular night. this summer to enjoy the Coordinator, Angela Som- for each evening. The organizers are also show, and give my sup- mer. From now until their mindful of selecting a port. I’ll see you in Not only does Williams April 15 4pm deadline, the good mix of musical styles the audience! PAGE 16 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014
“All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking.” do –Friedrich Nietzsche Ignore the inner doctor, and listen to the real one You know that annoy- ing light that sometimes comes on in your car that says ‘Service Engine Soon’ or something similar? Adrenaline Personally, in the past, I have ignored it after I have checked my fluids to make sure there is enough Fix oil and anti-freeze in it to know it is not going to seize up or overheat on By Darren Smith me. It seems pretty silly, considering how much it injury with some trigger own advice. would cost to repair if it point therapy and soft Lesson 1: Foam roll- were something else more tissue work. When I used ing, although painful, is serious versus getting the foam roller and a trig- a great way to flush out a check-up at my local ger point ball, the pain those beat up muscles af- service center to find out was significantly reduced ter a workout. You don’t some computer module so I figured I had pes have to do a workout for needs to be replaced. anserine bursitis. it to be beneficial though. I can say that the same A few weeks later, an Rolling your muscles on has happened in the past orthopedist told me that a regular basis (4-5 times with my body except he may have agreed with per week) can really help there was no ‘Check me except for the find- to lengthen your muscles Body Light’ or ‘Service ings on my MRI which and break up scar tissue Body Soon’ signal; or was told us that I actually had that you may have from Lesson 3: Don’t use a Lesson 4: Listen to exactly what she told me there? a 2 cm tear in my medial a previous injury or just pair of running shoes for your doctor (not your not to do and that was You know those nag- meniscus. from daily wear and tear. 8 straight months. I don’t inner doctor voices, when I felt the pain the ging aches and pains I found this to be a Lesson 2: Hydration keep close tabs on my although they can be en- most severe. It didn’t hurt you have after a workout great lesson in my ap- needs to be consistent. I mileage but I am guessing tertaining at times, they too badly when running or after sitting at your proach to patient care, have a water bottle sitting I had a few hundred miles are not helping you make but when I was taking my desk for 8 hours a day or which in the past, has next to me most days at on the last pair of shoes I good life choices). I think required 5 minute walk playing with your kids been, “Do what I say, not work and all the time on had. The foam sole was I said earlier, I am a bad after a 15 minute run, it and realizing that you what I do.” I will be the my bike plus one in my significantly crushed on patient. If I didn’t, well, I began to feel like I was can’t pick up your 10 year first to admit, patients car for after running. I the outside, which would am, and from this point being stabbed. old like you could a few are advised to do more don’t bring one to the pool put moderate stress on onward, I will change that Because I am a smart years back. Those are the stretching in a week of regularly though, which the medial / inner part of part of my personality, guy, I thought, “It didn’t ‘service’ indicators your seeing me than I do for I know I need to do, even the knee. mainly because she was hurt when I ran, so I will body has. I ignored them myself in a month (prob- though I seem to drink I have to say, I believe right. start running,” (before for years as all of us have, ably longer). I have this enough pool water (but this to be the main cause I had a visit with my my 5 minutes were up). but as we get older those invincibility thing going then again, the chlorine of my knee injury. A primary care doctor for I soon discovered that I indicators are that much for me, or so I think. I am may counteract the actual meniscus tear is usu- the knee early on in the was unable to continue. more important to pay a healer, I never get hurt, water ingestion). Chronic ally caused by twisting pain evolution under the The 15 minute run from attention to. I have never have had a low-level dehydration or turning quickly, often pretense of following up my office took me about Doctor, heal thyself! significant injury (except consistently exists in the with the foot planted on some tests she ordered 45 minutes to walk back Early January, I felt for that little spinal cord majority of the popula- while the knee is bent. for me almost a year ago. and every step was excru- some pain in my inner injury / partial paralysis tion. A few of the many These tears can occur I never had them done ciating. knee. As a good health thing, I don’t count that), problems this creates are, when you lift something (bad patient) and in pass- That was when I was care provider, I diagnosed and I should not get hurt. poor circulation, poor heavy or play sports. As ing, I asked her to check really regretting all my myself. I felt I had some Here are some help- toxic waste elimination, you get older, your me- my knee. After hearing past decisions which tight muscles which were ful things I have learned increased inflammation, niscus gets worn, making the history of the pain brings us to the moral of causing irritation of the from this experience, poor nutrient absorption, it tear more easily. So, and the progression, she this story: bursa (bursitis) as well and if you are my pa- poor chemical exchange add together a worn out suggested a diagnosis of • Listen to your body, as rotating the knee, tient currently, you likely throughout tissue and pair of shoes, my age, patellar femoral pain syn- pain is its way of telling hence the knee pain. My have heard me say these cells, strained and weak- my weight, no rotational drome (I disagreed) and you something is wrong. brilliant deduction came things. From here on out, ened immune system, and force, and there is the told me to get new shoes • Don’t run through from self-treating my I will be following my more painful joints. cause of my knee injury. and to avoid running on the pain, don’t ignore pavement. it, stop, evaluate, and be For 90% of my run- proactive in finding out ning in the past 9 years, what is causing your pain. I have run on a trail but • Listen to your doc- since moving to work tor; they know what downtown Portland, I they’re talking about for have been running on the most part. concrete. My shoes have • Drink water, it does already been discussed a body good (or is that in lesson 3, but I thought milk? I forget). Regard- I could get a few more less, hydrate, hydrate, miles out of them. The hydrate. day after I saw her, I did April 2014 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 17
RRSP vs. TFSA: eat Which is better for you? Primary Purpose When they ask, ‘Give ‘em the pickle’ RRSP: Mainly focuses on retirement needs TFSA: Savings needs throughout your life Having spent the major- opment and testing, I can ity of my adult life in food offer some tips on making Annual Contribution Limit services, I’ve heard a few it, and since I have had a lot RRSP: 18% of earned income (subject to annual colourful stories, most of of folks asking for my Ham contribution limit) which can’t be printed in Out of & Cheddar Quiche recipe, TFSA: $5500 per year (depending on which year) this fine publication. The I thought I would share one that I like most of all is it with our readers. Here, Taxation on Growth ‘Give em the pickle’. once again, is one of my RRSP: Growth is tax-deferred until the money is Where it started, I the Fridge patent-pending non-recipe withdrawn don’t know, but it is now recipes. TFSA: Growth accumulates tax-free — never a standard term in the #1. Good pie dough. required to pay tax industry known to all chefs By Brice O’Neill Yes, I make it myself. and cooks. The story goes #2. Quality ingredients Unused Contribution Room like this. to call it out to the other no problem,” and thought like real cheeses, not the RRSP: Carried forward from year to year (maxi- Someone, in some cooks — “One schnitzel to myself, Wow…I guess cheaper ‘shredded dairy mums as allowed by CCRA) restaurant, somewhere, with mushrooms, one cor- Darwin was wrong. Then product with cheddar’ TFSA: Carried forward from year to year, but you wanted a pickle with their don…” — I felt the gears in I started calling the bill *shudders*. can re-deposit in the years following a withdrawal sandwich. They asked the my brain start to grind, and again. “One Schnitzel with #3. Real cream. What up to your maximum limit waitress to ask the chef for I thought, ‘It says spaghetti mushroom, one Cordon, Chefs call heavy cream, a pickle. When the ticket with tomato sauce … no no sauce, no baker, fries 33-35%. Tax Deductions got to the kitchen, the tomatoes … that can’t be instead (I remember this #4 Quality ham not 18% RRSP: Deposits reduce your income tax for the cook said to the chef, “This right.” bill very well, as I actu- meat protein style ham year sandwich doesn’t come Read it again; it says, ally saved it and had it food (…eeewwwww!) and TFSA: No tax deduction for income tax reporting with a pickle.” “Spaghetti with tomato in a cupboard above my Kraft Real Cheddar cheese. The Chef looked back sauce, no tomatoes.” station for four years for #5. 4 whole eggs and Withdrawals at the cook and said, “Give Huh!? when I needed a laugh.) … one egg yolk. RRSP: Withdrawals do not increase your contri- ‘em the damn pickle dum- So I called the wait staff one spaghetti with tomato #6. Dock the pie dough bution room the following year. Taxes are withheld bass!” over and showed her the sauce no tomatoes!” (this stops it from bubbling on withdrawals — amount of tax is determined by The meaning of this is bill. “Huh!?” I said. I looked right at my and uneven cooking) and amount of withdrawal “Give the customer what She just looked at me Sous to see the look on brush with the egg white TFSA: Withdrawals increase your contribution they want.” People who with a blank stare. So I her face when it registered you had left over. room the following year. No taxes are withheld. are successful in the food shouted, “What the f*** what I had just called. #7 Lightly mix your services industry know that does this mean!?” I took great delight in eggs with a fork, add 1¾ Maturity Date this is paramount to your With a very serious look watching the gears in her cups cream. Put in a fistful RRSP: Must be fully withdrawn or transferred to survival. Failure to grasp on her face she said “Can I brain grind to a screech- of cheese and half a whack an RRIF or an annuity or other similar product by the seriousness of this wis- get the tomato sauce with ing halt. She began to say of thinly sliced ham. Fold December 31 in the year in which you turn 71. dom will result in a slow, no tomatoes?” something, and I cut her in with a spatula – careful TFSA: Depending on the company, maturity dates painful, financial death. I quickly replied in the off. “Put the sauce through not to get too much air into will vary (ie. Age 105). So the next time you are most sarcastic way I could, a strainer. He doesn’t want it or it will soufflé. Pour in a restaurant and staff is “Sure it’s called water and it chunks of tomato in it.” into the shell and bake at Features unwilling to accommodate comes out of the tap there There it is, my favorite 380 degrees for 35 to 40 RRSP: May result in immediate tax refund and tax you, it might be time to beside you.” “Give ‘em the pickle story.” min. deferral. Good part of retirement plan. find a new place to spend Another blank stare. I hope it wasn’t you. Easy eh? Questions, TFSA: May offer flexibility and does offer tax-free your money. Then she walked away and In the last five years I’ve comments or concerns, growth. Also a good part of your retirement plan. Which brings me to I went back to cooking. made at least 500 quiches. Brice can be reached at a rather painful ‘pickle’ Twenty seconds later she I figure that through devel- [email protected]. memory. comes back and says, “He I was working one just doesn’t want chunks of Friday night dinner rush tomatoes in the sauce.” at a very busy restaurant It took me a second for and got a new bill from my brain to catch up but the wait staff. As I started when it did I said, “Okay, PAGE 18 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014
“How can I be useful, of what service can I be? see There is something inside me, what can it be?” — Vincent Van Gogh Biddy Jones gave years of service to local theatre The Williams Lake commitment. Biddy “Biddy’s directing wasn’t working. Also Studio Theatre has was always researching skills were superb. She she was notorious for served the community plays to direct and her did not take the task giving us acting notes for 59 years now, ever choices were often new lightly, and by model- for improvement when since that day of lore Behind the plays, Canadian plays, ing, she taught several we were in the second when Gwen Ringwood and edgy plays. She of us in the club how to last performance of a gathered a few thespi- was dedicated to getting to get actors to develop run. I also remember a ans together to perform newcomers and youth characters and interpret friend and I grumbling Dark Brown / Orange Curtain involved. I remem- the words of a script. about the ‘little biddiest Blossoms in March ber her saying about We knew that doing a of details’ when she was of 1955. Not much is newcomers, ‘They are play wasn’t just memo- having props designed remembered about that By Cathie Hamm just so keen and will do rizing a bunch of lines. and redesigned. But performance, other anything for you.’ She She was very organized we understood that she than it marked the be- during the 1970s to by her was performed believed in her cast and when directing. wanted perfection and ginning of the Williams 2000s, and was a huge in the United Church crew and inspired pride. “We knew what was she wanted the show the Lake Players Club, inspiration for dozens Basement: Blood Rela- “Biddy joyfully expected at the next best that it could be.” which changed its name of current theatre mem- tions. It was powerful. worked with young, rehearsal, and were Sharon and all the to the Williams Lake bers. Biddy died a year “Her energy to get inexperienced actors kept to a schedule. But others Biddy has influ- Studio Theatre Society ago at age of 84. Sharon actors cast and re- and crew. She men- we never rehearsed on enced, like Sandi Alaric, in later years. Hoffman remembers hearsed, have equip- tored a young woman Sunday night. That was Sheryl-Lynn Lewis, and As we look forward her fondly: ment hauled to a church who wanted to direct when she put her feet Curt Sprickerhoff, are to celebrating our 60th “I met Biddy Jones basement, do the run, David and Lisa. The up and watched Mas- still striving to make year, we start thinking around 30 years ago, and then move equip- group had rookie skills terpiece Theatre while every show the best it of all the people who and have been hon- ment back to who- and also teenage issues, sipping on a glass of can be. Our theatre has have donated count- oured to have her as my knows-where showed but Biddy found this sherry. seen a lot of change less hours of service friend. Biddy was the great dedication. rewarding, as in the “Sometimes she over its 60 years, but and dedication over the matriarch of Williams “Over the next few same season the two co- drove us crazy. She to- the one constant has years. One of the first Lake Studio Theatre for years I became involved directed A Midsummer tally changed the set de- been the passion and who springs to mind is many years. I was in with Studio Theatre and Night’s Dream with a sign for Tom Jones when commitment of the Biddy Jones, who was awe of her. One of the was always so impressed group of young per- we were a month into hundreds of volunteers active in the Theatre first plays I saw directed with her energy and formers. rehearsal because it just who serve. April 2014 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 19
Scout Island Nature Centre is located in the heart of the city of Williams Lake. Offering nature appreciation do and education, it is a bird-watchers paradise in spring and fall. Experience the wild side of the Cariboo! Discover, re-experience, explore, and enjoy
By christa smith
With spring comes the urge to get out- side and do something after a long winter. The landscape is regenerat- ing itself with greenery, buds, blossoms, and wildlife. This time of year is a great time to try a new activity or re- experience an old one like bird watching. Our ecosystem plays home to such a diverse range of wildlife, that if birds are not your thing, there is bound to be something else poking out and about trying to enjoy the sun as well. So what better time than this beauti- ful spring time to grab your binoculars or just yourself and head on out. Here in Williams Lake we are extremely lucky to have Scout Is- land right on our lake- shore just minutes from their migration path in birds if watching isn’t and take a walk, find is perfect for walking, busily building their downtown and within the spring and fall. The your thing. The mat- a new trail, or travel biking, jogging or even nests along the fence walking distance. If beautiful white swans ing calls, the return an old familiar one. horseback riding. The posts in the fields. It you need some assis- are back and making of the geese, and the With the snow rapidly amenities along this never ceases to be tance with your outing, the creek mouth their happy chatter of the receding, the Williams winding creekside trail a source of wonder, you are sure to find it play ground while wait- black birds, red wings, Lake River Valley Trail include picnic areas the natural instincts at Scout Island in the ing for the ice to move and chickadees, just should soon be ready and washroom facili- that the birds have for nature center. With the on down. to name a few, can be for the lazy afternoon ties. where to go, what to nature center to assist There are a maze of heard everywhere. The walk along the babbling A drive out highway do and how to live life. you with identifying trails that stretch the most commonly rec- creek and through the 20 towards the Fraser Hoping we can take new birds, help with length of the island ognized bird of spring woods. This trail has River may result in see- it from the birds and where to find birds, the and over two and a half is the Robin. Hopping something for every- ing Blue Birds darting do the same. Happy library, and the vast kilometers of sightsee- through the new grass one with short family through the air and spring! knowledge of the fabu- ing wonder. This little spears, it is a nice sight treks or the full meal lous people who work piece of paradise is and reconfirmation that deal with the twelve there, you will be sure home to many species, spring is truly here to kilometer hike to the to have all the help you not just bird. The out- stay. Fraser River. With a need. ing will refresh, reju- Celebrate spring nice gravel pack base Scout Island is a bird venate and inspire you. along with the birds the River Valley Trail watcher’s dream as this This is truly a natural unique combination spot of beauty and fun, of marsh, island, lake, free way to spend an and trees are home to afternoon. hundreds of species The sounds of spring of birds who find this can be heard in the • Country-Style Wedding Venue • Natural Setting in Picturesque Horsefly • Private Lake, Saloon & Barn • Horse Drawn Carriages MOUNTAIN BIKE • Services Include Catering, Bartending, Rentals, Makeup
250-620-3339 5983 Horsefly Lake Rd, Horsefly, BC www.sunshineranchweddings.com PAGE 20 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014
“Music, in performance, is a type of sculpture. The air in the performance is sculpted into something.” hear –Frank Zappa Soundtracks and scores lead the month’s new releases
Ahhahhahahhaahha- me out to this movie, I tic Mr. Fox and Moonrise earlier today. Right now, hahahahah! Oh my god, discovered the soundtrack Kingdom. Other artists, I’d just rather hear some Archer cracks me up so was by Junkie XL, a name including the Osipov State of Diplo’s work without much! I remember from techno Russian Folk Orchestra do the heavy reggaeton. It’s Have you been watch- Tone video game and sci-fi appear on the album. not bad. It’s just.. over- ing Archer, the hilarious soundtracks from the late Unfortunately I haven’t saturation. animated spy comedy 90s. had a chance to see this Speaking of over-satu- produced by FX? It airs movie yet, but I’m a big ration, I had no idea how on Teletoon here in Soup Wes Anderson fan and am oftenCurrent 93 releases Canada. Well, if you’re looking forward to it. In albums until I did some not up to date on season the meantime I’ve given searching after I heard five, *SPOILER ALERT* By Jamie Horsley a couple listens to the they had a new album (though not really, if you soundtrack and it’s pretty on the way. According to know anything at all about few of her own out for the neat. It’s got the sound Wikipedia they’ve released the new season) they’re album. There’s ‘Cherlene’s of what my imagination at least two albums a year out of the spy business Broken Hearts and Auto assures me is traditional (quite often even three and now they’re selling co- Parts,’ and a song about Hungarian style music or four a year) from 1984 caine. Except Cheryl. She’s her passions called ‘I’ll I was pretty sure there and yet there’s the wit and through 2010 after which now become Cherlene: Burn It Down’ and even was no techno in the whimsy that you’d expect it dropped to one a year America’s hottest rising one to her therapist called movie. In fact, I remem- from a soundtrack to a with a live album in 2011 country music superstar. ‘Gypsy Woman.’ ber war drums and a Wes Anderson movie. I and nothing in 2013. Wow. These songs have such captivating, suspenseful, want to have tea in a big That’s a lot of music. a classic country sound newly released soundtrack atmospheric mood created lounge on plush couches And even with all that, that I actually thought that album for the 2013 indie by the music. So I’ve been of red velvet and gold honestly, have you ever some of the songs with less filmWrong Cops. The film listening to 300: Rise of an paisley and discuss world heard of these guys? I Cheryl-specific lyrics were is a disturbed little comedy Empire - Original Motion affairs with my compan- probably wouldn’t have also covers. Best country about some terribly bad Picture Soundtrack as I ions as this plays quietly in either, but a dozen years music soundtrack for a (at their jobs), corrupt, read up on Junkie XL and the background. It’s quite ago an eccentric friend long-haul road trip since cops. It mostly follows the learn that he’s been work- nice. dumped the last half of The Devil’s Rejects. story of them trying to ing with Hans Zimmer Believe it or not I did his CD collection on me That’s not the only dispose of a (almost) dead and collaborating with check out a few albums before he moved across Well Cherlene now has good soundtrack out body that one of them ac- him on films like The Dark that were not soundtracks the country. There was an album, and yes, ‘Dan- this month. We’re enter- cidentally shot. Knight Rises and Inception as well. all kinds of weird shit in ger Zone’ is on it. In fact, ing blockbuster season The bizarre film and its and even Man of Steel. there. Stuff you’ve never it’s track one. Even better: and the soundtracks are equally groovy, and almost Well I think I’ll be looking heard of — this guy was it’s a duet with Kenny Log- on the front lines. Usu- as bizarre, soundtrack for Junkie XL, or maybe the definition of hipster gins! Sploosh! ally a soundtrack (espe- could only come from the Tom Holkenborg, in the before hipster was even a She also covers ‘East- cially when it’s the original mind of Quentin Dupieux, music credits of movies word. bound and Down’ (obvi- score) is released a few A.K.A. Mr. Oizo. He’s a more often. ously) and a couple Kevn weeks to a month before French house and experi- I’m gonna file this Kinney songs: ‘40 Miles the movie hits theatres, so mental techno producer, one next to the rest of of Mountain Road’ and lots of them are starting to probably best known for my fantasy action movie ‘Chattahoochee Coochie roll out. his 1999 hit “Flat Beat” but soundtracks. They play Man.’ But don’t fret over But the the one I’ve more lately in his career well while reading books Major Lazer dropped all these classic country spent the most time listen- he’s been making as much or playing role playing another EP. This one’s covers, Cherlene picks a ing to this month is the film as music. games. But who does that? called Apocalypse Soon. You may have seen the That’s geek stuff. After last year’s flood of hilariously surreal, instant The other one, which Lazers, I hate to admit cult hit of 2010, Rubber. I didn’t get to spend as it but I’m getting a little But out of his collec- Yeah, that was also his. much time listening to as I Lazered out. This is just tion, what had the most The album is actually had wanted, is The Grand a little five track EP with impact on me was the called Wrong Cops (Best Budapest Hotel - Original more familiar reggaeton discovery of a circle of Of), as it obviously doesn’t Soundtrack, with score and dancehall beats. Rest artists that spoke to the offer all the songs and by Alexandre Desplat. assured there will be esoteric, psychedelic me of score appearing in the The Grand Budapest Hotel remixes. I’ll probably pay my early 20s. These artists film. is Wes Anderson’s (The less attention to them this included such industrial This isn’t Tron or a Lord Royal Tenenbaums, The time around. and gothic acts as Throb- of the Rings soundtrack. But that’s not to say bing Gristle, Psychic TV, It’s full of hard techno these songs are any less Byron Gysin, Genesis P. beats and all the weirdness good than previous Major Orridge, Edward Ka-Spel you expect from Mr. Oizo. Lazer offerings. They’re and The Legendary Pink This album is a hit! just not grabbing me like Dots, and Current 93 and Speaking of Lord of the ‘Jet Blue Jet’ or ‘Get Free’ Nurse With Wound. Rings and techno pro- or even ‘Hold the Line’ So I’ve got about five or ducers, it was Junkie XL or ‘Mary Jane’ from ‘09’s six old 80s and 90s Cur- who composed the entire Guns Don’t Kill People, rent 93 albums that I’ve soundtrack to the latest, Lazers Do. Although, I loved over the years, but greatest (not really), fan- Life Aquatic with Steve will admit I had ‘Aerosol on this side of the pond we tasy war movie with boats, Zissou) latest film. Alexan- Can’ featuring Pharrell don’t get much news about 300: Rise of an Empire. dre Desplat has previously Williams stuck in my head this little British gothic / After a friend dragged scored Anderson’s Fantas- before I even listened to it apocalyptic folk band, so I April 2014 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 21
“One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain.” hear – Bob Marley had no idea that they were still actively pumping out Then, the unexpected gem of the month was a brand new, two or four albums a year for the last decade. They’re full length LP from Skrillex. We’d heard there was new not, how you say, chart- toppers. music from him on the way but when or what was still a Of course I had to check out the brand new mystery until he quietly released the tracks into his mobile album I Am The Last Of The Field That Fell. Ya app, Alien Ride, in the small hours of the morning one day, and then know, with that many Boom. Now we have albums you’d think their Recess. This is the first announced that the album would be available a week later. Boom. style would evolve or shift full length album Skril- at least some. Well this lex has done, so at eleven Now we have Recess. This is the first full length album Skrillex has album sounds exactly as tracks, he’s got a little more I remember them from room to stretch out and done, so at 11 tracks, he’s got a little more room to stretch out and ex- their most well-known re- explore than he did in the lease, 1992’s The Thunder seven track Bangarang E P. plore than he did in the seven track Bangarang E P. Perfect Mind. The music Almost as a giant middle is pretty piano heavy with finger to everyone, he distorted guitars churning opens the album with one tion? Can you keep a trancey ballad with a Sea Change and some of punctuation and exclama- of the heaviest, most abra- secret? I dont really give dubstep breakdown — the same musicians have tion into the dark, apoca- sive, most hardcore tracks a- what! What I need to not the greatest. But he come back to work with lyptic, deeply poetic lyrics on the album called ‘All Is know is do you wanna…?” closes it on a nice light, him on it. It’s a nice light that are rasped and hissed Fair In Love And Brostep.’ I wonder if that’ll gen- trancey D&B bit featur- Beck album but I prefer at you in an English accent As if to say, “Here’s what erate the same controversy ing Kid Harpoon. I think early Beck and Guero while flutes flit around in I’m known for. Now that as ‘Blurred Lines.’ I’ll be switching up my / The Information type the brighter moment. that’s out of the way, here’s And have you ever Major Lazer for some Beck. Sea Change Beck is Thank you very much, what else I can do.” wondered what you get Skrillex this year. Yes. pretty but doesn’t interest David Tibet. Now excuse From there, he moves when you cross trap and There was also a Beck gone back to the sound me much. me while I go spend a into the title track which dub? You get ‘Dirty Vibe’ album released last of his ‘02 album Sea If you enjoy Beck at bunch of money on a load is a catchy little ditty that and the gettin’ is good. month. I didn’t listen to Change. all, give it a listen. If you of Current 93 albums that sounds like someone ‘Ragga Bomb’ is some it too much. It’s called It’s actually a sequel like Sea Change you’ll I didn’t know existed. tapping out a beat with dancehall reggae crossed Morning Phase and it’s or companion piece to love it. Meanwhile, you should hollow tubes between a with heavy dubstep and it’s check out the two I’ve chantable chorus line. actually pretty wicked. But mentioned here. Then there’s a trap song. the little piece of left-field Then, the unexpected Then some stuff you’d ear candy is ‘Doompy gem of the month was a more typically expect of Poomp.’ It starts with a brand new, full length LP Skrillex. There’s a straight distorted voice saying, “I from Skrillex. We’d heard up D&B rap song col- know what I think y’all there was new music from laboration with Chance wouldn’t expect,” and then him on the way but when the Rapper called ‘Coast Is begins a goofy, groovy or what was still a mystery Clear.’ It’s catchy, groovy, little cartoonish beat, that until he quietly released very danceable, but it’s got wobbles along, distorts, the tracks into his mobile lyrics that make Robin erodes, turns brightly app, Alien Ride (available Thicke’s ‘Blurred Lines’ ethereal splashes around on Android and iOS), look like the adult innu- in some digital water, in the small hours of the endo in a kid’s movie. carries on and fades out. morning one day, and Chance comes right Wow. then announced that the out and says “What your Wait — that was Skril- album would be available interests are? Who you be lex? Cool. a week later. with? Can I ask a ques- ‘Ease My Mind’ is a
• MTC’s (Mobile • Locations in Treatment Centers) Williams Lake Transport Canada & Smithers Appproved • Mobile to Quesnel & 100 Mile House areas • DOT Certified Drug & Alcohol Testing Keeping your • Retail First Aid worksite safe Supplies & injury-free 250-296-0094 • www.kendrafirstaid.com Fax 250-296-0193 • Cell 250-392-0053 • Email [email protected] PAGE 22 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014
Another fine example of video game customer service: Running With Scissors Inc. has recently released substantial patches for do their game Postal 2 which was released in 2003. That’s a long shelf life! Stew Spots Service just as vital in game industry Service is just as Monthly distribution of The Stew Magazine photo by important to the video djandyw.com 100 MILE HOUSE Good Guys Gardening game industry as it is to 99 Mile Supermarket Halls Organics any other business or A&W Hobbit House industry, but it shows up Chevron Hopkins Design Studio in slightly different ways. CRD Library Husky There’s frequently little Dairy Queen Karamia’s interaction between Donex M&M Meat Shop game developers, game Higher Ground Natural Foods McDonald’s publishers, and their au- Nuthatch Book Store Mohawk dience (outside of Face- Parkside Art Gallery New World Cafe book pages and Twitter Pharmasave One More Slice accounts, and let’s face Safeway The Open Book it, those are mostly for Save-On Foods Ramada Hotel marketing). So without Smitty’s Red Shred’s any sort of ability to Subway Safeway show your customers a Tim Horton’s Sandman Inn friendly face, how does want to check out The Visitor Centre Save-On Foods good customer service Amazing Spider-Man 2, Scrub Ur Duds show itself in the video LAC LA HACHE Shields Brake & Muffler which arrives on April Fast Trac Gas & Shopper’s Drug Mart game industry? 29 for PC, Playstation Convenience Store Starbucks Well, in a few differ- Gaming 3, Playstation 4, Wii U, Clancy’s Restaurant Station House Gallery ent ways, but one of the Xbox 360, Xbox One, Subway (Highway 97) biggest ones is by simply and 3DS. The last game MCLEESE LAKE Subway (Prosperity Ridge) extending the longevity was a fairly impressive McLeese Lake Store Super 8 of a game. Life little open-world, web- Tim Horton’s Let’s take a look at slinging adventure. This 150 MILE HOUSE Tourism Info Centre Grand Theft Auto V one looks to be at least 150 Mile Mall TRU which was released late By Todd Sullivan as good. Marshall’s Store Walmart last year. For about $60 Other notable re- WLCBIA (if you bought it full fewer copies of the game tomer service, everyone leases: Batman: Arkham WILLIAMS LAKE Women’s Contact Society price at retail) you had end up in the ‘Used’ bin gets to be happy, and Origins Blackgate (04- A&W a game with about 30 of the local game stores. everyone wins. 01); Goat Simulator (04- QUESNEL Alley Katz hours worth of story And fewer used copies Okay, let’s look at 01); Dynasty Warriors 8: A&W Andre’s Electronics to play through and a available mean more what’s coming out this Xtreme Legends (04-04); Bean Counter Aroma Foods Billy Barker Hotel & Casino multiplayer, online mode brand-new copies sold to month. Trials Fusion (04-16); Best Western that allowed you untold gamers. On April 4, Bethesda Child of Light (04-30) Canadian Tire Bliss Grill Burger Palace hours further to explore But this just shows Games brings their pow- Correction: Last Canwest Propane with your own custom you why good customer erhouse Elder Scrolls month’s reference to Cariboo Memorial Complex Carry All Books character. service is so vitally im- franchise to the MMO Dead Souls II should CRD Library (Magazine Granville’s Coffee For a lot of compa- portant, not just to the world with The Elder have actually referred to & News Section) Karin’s Deli Central Cariboo Arts & Mac’s nies, that would have video game industry but Scrolls Online. Few Dark Souls II, which ar- Culture Center Museum & Tourist Centre been more than enough to every industry. The games have managed to rives this month for PC Concrete Fitness Quesnel Music to provide in a game, happier your customers go toe-to-toe with World following last month’s Cool Clear Water Quizno’s but Rockstar Games has are, the happier you’ll be of Warcraft, but this is release to consoles. Crates Gift Shop Riverside Bistro gone a step further by as a business. It doesn’t one that might have the What have I been Dairy Queen Safeway continuing to support matter how you measure fanbase to pull it off. playing lately? I re- Dandelion Living Save-On Foods their game in the months that service or what sort Available for PC and activated my World of Denny’s Restaurant 7-11 since release by continu- of equation you use, Mac. Warcraft account (my Dog n Suds Shopper’s Drug Mart ing to provide content that’s the bottom line. The highly anticipated main is named Dominex Elaine’s Natural Foods Subway for the GTA Online Of course it’s not just Titanfall comes to the on the Uldum server if The Gecko Tree Super Suds Laundromat multiplayer mode — new Rockstar Games, and it’s Xbox 360 on April 8 after you want to say ‘Hi!’), so Greyhound Tim Horton’s (Downtown) weapons, new clothes, not always free content. a short delay. It’s already that’s been a pretty big Tim Horton’s (Highway 97) new cars, new missions, Plenty of games have arrived for the Xbox part of my gaming this new races, and all com- released paid content One, and initial word month. Beyond that, I’ve Want to be a STEW depot? pletely free of charge. packs that include sub- is very, very strong. If been slowly working my Email [email protected] or Call 250-398-7446 Now it’s likely that stantially more content you’re into online shoot- way through all the hid- some amount of paid — map packs for games ers, you’ll want to make den unlockables in Lego content is waiting for like Call of Duty and this a day-one purchase. Marvel Superheroes (and GTA fans somewhere Halo, new cars for racing Do you enjoy build- there’s a lot of them — down the road, Rock- games like Burnout, even ing cities and then ruling I’m barely at 30%) star’s willingness to whole expansions, as in them with an iron fist What have you been release regular, free the case of World of War- like a mad dictator? Then playing lately? What are content for their game craft(a new expansion, Tropico 5 — the latest in your favourite examples shows just how much Warlords of Draenor, is this despot simulation of good gaming cus- good customer service due by the year’s end). series — might just be tomer service? Favourite means to them. All of this keeps gam- up your alley. It arrives map pack? Favourite Of course, it’s also ers happily playing the for PC, Mac, Linux, and DLC? I want to hear good business, because games they love, and that Xbox 360 on April 18. about it! Shoot me an the longer people are makes the companies If you enjoy super- email at todd@thestew. playing their game, the happy. With good cus- heroics, you might ca. April 2014 | THE STEW Magazine | PAGE 23
This month’s Crossword puzzle brought to you do by the fine people at Bob Paterson Homes.
ACROSS crone hoarding money ing lady finds setter’s (6) packing a most powerful 1 He could be consumed piece (3,5) X-Word Puzzle with a lust to become 21 It’s fired from Win- crystal-user (6) chester perhaps (8) 8 Gypsy gentleman needs money for food (8) 5 Very delicate material 22 Enjoy the taste (6) available from the Web 14 Passed examinations? 23 Paisley for example (8) (9) puts marriage first (8) 9 Vessel containing pills 15 Piece of music much 24 Making certain to tele- primarily? (8) performed in Copenha- phone after being given gen? (8) 10 Kingdom that’s in place by university (8) possession of year-old 16 Marine being risqué in 25 A series that’s tied? (6) Japanese painting (5-1) speech, almost drunk (8) DOWN 11 Defeated party bounc- 17 Cosmetic from the ing back as poll for Euro 2 Combine fossil fuel Orient found on the old is decided (8) energy with significantly ship (8) cleaner energy sources 12 In just under a month 18 No rep is substituted, (8) German replaces new note, when one appears car (6) 3 What old newspaper thus (2,6) did, having cowardly edi- 13 Introductory radio 19 One charges, taking tor (8) broadcast given by Lib- pound from hero-wor- eral after European vote 4 Sent academician trans- shipper (7) (8) lation of Proust that’s about acceptable (9) 15 Slav girl has year off (4) 5 German poet said to have blasted “mostly 17 Nest’s located by Eng- dumb German opera” lish woman (4) (15) 19 I attempt to keep a 6 Tree from Lusaka’s gone certain equality of mea- astray (7) sure (8) 7 Summer festival’s lead- 20 Loathing produced by PAGE 24 | THE STEW Magazine | April 2014