Current Entries October 31, 2009. Hallowe'en! Free hotdogs and hot chocolate at the Ganges Firehall...thanks to Country Grocer. Fireworks take place at Coast Guard dock, thanks to generous Island supporters, and the Firefighters. Earlier, though, it's the Olympic Torch, and the celebration at Centennial Park, 1 to 4 p.m. Remember to turn your clocks back tonight, when you go to bed -- tomorrow, we're back to Standard Time! Tomorrow, too, at the Harbour House Hotel, 6:30 p.m., there's a fundraiser to benefit the Institute for Sustainability Education & Action (I-SEA), and the Salt Spring Organization for Life Improvement & Development (SOLID). Over 80 items from Salt Spring and beyond, plus a veggie appetizer feast, provided by Harbour House, and music by Stephanie Rhodes and friends. Presentations, too, on the exciting projects underway by both I-SEA and SOLID. Salt Spring entrepreneurial spirit at work! I know it hasn't turned from Fall into Winter, calendar wise (I see it there, marked as Dec. 20th), but most of us feel that Hallowe'en ushers in a different weather pattern/"feel" to the Island. Now that Standard Time is back, it will be dark by 4:30 -- make sure you pay attention, when driving home from work, as some pedestrians do not wear reflective armbands or other clothing "decals". Eat your fruit and veggies, exercise, get fresh air, remember to wash your hands/don't touch your eyes, nose, mouth, do not shake hands (smile, nod, bow), and be well. Yes, the H1N1 "flu is around, but prudent health habits will keep you safe...that includes staying home, if you don't feel well. We need to practice positive living elements, and that means we don't go out and spread our germs around! This Monday is the community radio morning show that I do with Mark Voyce, of Bocados Bistro...we have Jan Rabson as our guest, and you can tune into us from 7 to 9 a.m., every Monday, different guests each week, at: www.cfsi-fm.com or, locally, at 107.9 fm. Jan has a passion for radio, and I'm looking forward to his effervescent spirit! October 30, 2009. Tomorrow, along with being Hallowe'en -- be careful driving, as there are ghost and goblins out there, trick and treating! -- it's also the day that the Olympic Torch comes to Salt Spring. Festivities take place in Centennial Park, from 1 p.m., with musical entertainment at 2 p.m. Free pizza, hot chocolate, juice, plus Free Draws for great prizes from Salt Spring merchants, plus face painting, tatoos, giveaways. At 3:20 the Torch arrives by floatplane, from Lake Cowichan, and will make the rounds of downtown Ganges, before being driven to the Vesuvius Ferry, and back onto Vancouver Island. This is a stellar event that is a part of all B.C., even though the venue is in Whistler and Vancouver, for the actual Olympic events. We all live in such a beautiful part of the world, whether on a Gulf Island or on Vancouver Island, or on the Sunshine Coast. Same with Victoria and Vancouver -- it's the "coastal grid", and it's full of beauty! This is a celebration, that the Winter Olympics will take place in B.C. Let's turn out, and support those who are carrying the Torch for our area. See you there! October 29, 2009. Tonight, at ArtSpring Gallery, catch Raffi's new CD release celebration. Called "Communion", it has the terrific sing along/anthem "Sustainability". Doors open at 6:30, there are light refreshments, and the "opening" starts at 7 p.m. See you there! The contemporary dance show, Light & Metal, plays ArtSpring on Nov. 5th. Call ArtSpring ticket office (250-537-2102), for more details! This is one not to be missed! A framing experience needed? Pegasus Gallery Framing, at 111 Robinson Road, is at your service! Conservation, appraisals, storage, gallery, supplies, shipping...and picture framing are their Art Services. Monday, November 9th, enjoy Connie Kaldor, with opening act of K.C. Kelly & Sandi Profitt. Presented by Salt Spring Folk Club, at Fulford Hall, doors open at 6:15 and show starts at 7 p.m. Soups, Suppers & Sweets by Fiddlehead Catering. Tickets at Acoustic Planet, Salt Spring Books, Stuff & Nonsense. Wave, if you see me! Music & Munch, on Nov. 4th, will continue the tradition of dedicating November's program to observing Remembrance Day, through music and poetry. Music for the free event begins at 12:10 p.m. Tickets for the optional lunch following are available at the door, before the start of the program. It's at All Saints by the Sea, of course! November 7th finds Paxton Bachman at Moby's from 8 to 11 p.m. Mark your calendars. Tonight, though, at Moby's, catch Blues from 8 to 11 p.m. November 1st, it's Jazz, from 7 to 10 p.m. Salt Spring Centre of Yoga, on Monday, Nov 2nd, will showcase David Hickey's performance of a crystal bowl and planet gong concert. Show time is 7:30 p.m., and tickets are at the door. Salt Spring Community Theatre presents a comedy, Having Hope At Home, with opening night on Friday, November 6th, at Mahon Hall, show at 8 p.m. It runs Nov. 7, 13, 14, at 8 p.m., and there's a matinee on Nov. 15, at 2 p.m. Enjoy! Lots of Hallowe'en events (for kids of all ages!). Finish up in Ganges, for the fireworks display! Clinton Fearon plays ArtSpring on Nov. 6th, with show starting at 8 p.m. Known as a living legend of roots reggae music, this should chase away any impending winter blues! And yes, you can catch the community radio station via streaming audio at: www.cfsi-fm.com (if you can get the signal, where you live, it's at 107.9, on your fm dial). Remember to welcome the Olympic Torch to Salt Spring, on the 31st -- celebrate in Centennial Park at 1 p.m., with entertainment at 2 p.m. and at 3:20, the Torch arrives on Island. Did somebody say this was the "off season". Hmmmm..... October 28, 2009. Here's a sweetie of a renovated cedar cottage/home, in the popular "Vesuvius area", on Salt Spring Island -- close to tennis, to theatre, to lake and ocean accesses, and to park hiking/walking trails, and to all services/amenities. Private and quiet lot, easy - care property, with an attached studio structure (artist? home occupation?). Room for RV parking, too! Some ocean glimpses, plus sunsets from the spacious decking! Bring your ideas, and continue the work begun by this owner. On community water. A best buy opportunity on special Salt Spring Island...summer/weekender or retirement, or expand the home and create your dream. The choice is yours! October 27, 2009. Hard to believe that it's almost Hallowe'en! On Salt Spring, the great volunteer firefighters put on a fireworks display, down by the Coast Guard dock, and it's well attended! In earlier years, there used to be a smaller version down at Fulford Harbour, too. I remember meeting some buyers, who were driving off the ferry with a van load of their furnishings, to move into their new home. Their new property was way up at the top of Dukes Road, and that particular Hallowe'en there was dense fog. One could hardly see five feet in front of the car. They slowly followed me, along Fulford-Ganges Road, and it was "pea soup" plus night (they caught the last ferry to the Island). Just as we slowly went around the corner and over the bridge, across Fulford Creek, the fireworks went off. One couldn't see the people at ground level, but there was an opening in the fog higher up, so the bursting pinwheels could be seen emerging from the gloom. By the time we crawled to the property (fog so thick that they couldn't move their things in, so had to spend night at motel), they were totally enthralled with Salt Spring...thought the fireworks were especially for them! They are still owners, here, and still at the same place. Nice! This coming Monday, between 7 and 9 a.m., it's the Monday Morning Radio Show with Li and Mark. We've had some great guests, and learned a lot. Finally, it's possible to phone in...mmmm...that's going to make it much more impromptu! Mark and I didn't realize that the phones were now live, this past Monday show, so when lights started to flash, we couldn't figure it out at first...someone was phoning in, though, to say they had figured out where I was standing, and so the first contest is over. The prize this time was dinner for two, at a romantic restaurant. If you can't catch the show on 107.9 fm, then try the streaming audio at www.cfsi-fm.com -- this next week, the mystery guest understands the charm and the power of radio, so I expect to learn lots! Would like to be a guest? Give me a call! Yesterday we had sun, rain, hail, wind, mild, cold...all in one day. Definitely marching to winter! Still lots of events happening around the Island, though. The Market in the Park officially ends this weekend. The Tuesday market ended last week. Craft fairs are gearing up for the Christmas Season. Theatre and music offerings at ArtSpring, evening courses at night school, live music at various restaurants on weekends, and it's also fun, at this time of year, to do day trips to Victoria or to mid-Vancouver Island, or to Vancouver, or to check out another Gulf Island.. Always very special, though, to come home to Salt Spring! October 26, 2009. "Take the sun. Put it in your heart. Take the moon. Pull it to your belly. Draw down the Big Dipper. Merge with the Northern Star." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") October 25, 2009. Looking for a private island paradise in the heart of the best protected boating waters in the world? Here is a gem for your consideration. Approximately 33 acres, forest/pasture, home, outbuildings, barn, caretaker's accomodation...close to Sechelt and the Sunshine Coast communities, an easy private boat trip from Vancouver, a world class city. Arrive by helicopter or floatplane, too. Sunny, private, with extravagant views of ocean, islands, mountains. The perfect retreat property, close to all amenities, and yet in its own pristine world. Enjoy! October 24, 2009. BBC news reports : China economic growth accelerates Fed plans to limit bank pay risks Banks 'to lend more in mortgages' NHS told to brace itself over flu White wines 'bad for teeth' Science to 'stop age clock at 50' Panel supports commercial space Primate fossil 'not an ancestor' Microsoft bets on Windows success Real-time search rivalry hots up Sales of virual goods boom in US Afghan opium fuels 'global chaos' Ethiopia asks for urgent food aid Russia rights group wins EU prize October 23, 2009. Tomorrow is the International Day of Climate Action. Salt Spring is joining this event. Over 3000 actions will take place in over 158 countries. It will be the most widespread day of environmental action in the planet's history. A Climate Change Rally is planned for 3 p.m. at the Gulf Islands Secondary School gym. If able, people are being urged to join the Critical Mass Bike Ride, starting from Fulford and from Vesuvius, to and around Ganges, then out to the GISS gym. Join the ride at any point! En route to the school, watch for the markers that will show the new shoreline, with the rising sea levels. Raffi will be present, and will close the school program with his new work, Sustainability, from his new CD: Communion. Another event is an all day workshop, sponsored by the Gulf Islands Alliance, called "Rebuilding Resilient Island Communities in Time of Transition". Many more events taking place...check the Driftwood for more details. Be there! It is up to us. The Salt Spring Rotary Club is presenting their annual Hallowe'en Casino & Spooktacular Bash, featuring Uncle Jim's Big Blues Band, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., at Farmer's Institute, on October 30th. Costume prizes, and late evening snack table. Tickets in advance only. Mark your calenders! Note, too, that Moby's will present Rock: Paxton Bachman, on Nov. 7 (8 to 11 p.m.). This Sunday, the 25th, Moby's offers Jazz, 7 to 10 p.m. Catch Susan Aglukark, at ArtSpring, on October 31st, show starting at 8 p.m. Call ArtSpring's ticket office (250-537-2102). Don't forget to be in the Village, too, for the spectacular fireworks display, on Hallowe'en night -- starting at 8 p.m., at the Coast Guard Dock. This annual Hallowe'en tradition has been made possible, this year, by the community's continued support of the fire fighters" corn booth, at the annual Fall Fair. Country Grocer is donating the hot dogs and hot chocolate! Hallowe'en is a day when we admire the creativity of the grocery store employees around town, those in banks and the credit union, and also the wait staff at restaurants...they always get into the fun of the day, with alarmingly creative costuming! Who does their makeup, anyway? Yes, it's the "off season", but lots to do/to enjoy. October 22, 2009. "I want to make myself an empty room: Quiet whitewashed walls with slant sunshine And a fresh breeze through open windows." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") October 21, 2009 Looking for an architect-designed home (by H. Schubart, who studied with Frank Lloyd Wright), lovingly upgraded by current owner (only second owner -- you can see this is a loved property!), and with a dramatic panoramic vista of ocean, islands, mountains? Two bed/two bath, with open plan living/dining, galley style kitchen, dramatic feature stone fireplace in living. Private acreage, close to Village and to Sailing Club. Separate guest "suite". You will love this beauty! Ready to just move into, and to enjoy. October 20, 2009. Raffi, the noted children's entertainer, has now located the physical space for his Child Honouring Centre. This concept has been with Raffi for several years, and he has had endorsements from the Dalai Lama and Nelson Mandela among others. Now, with the generous donation of their Salt Spring property, for Raffi's use, the Centre will have a home. A teaching facility, and a gathering place for discussion, the Centre will bring together many different people, to help to implement Raffi's idea of a new paradigm for living. As he sings: it takes a village to raise a child. For more info, take a look at Raffi's website: www.raffinews.com There are so many people on Salt Spring, many who are able to live here full time, and many others who are more seasonal residents (although they would call themselves Salt Springers), who offer this kind of propulsion to create a better world....whether it's on an environmental level, or on a family oriented platform, or on a societal / political framework. The Island calls forth the best from its residents, and they do step forward, it seems to me, "always". An interesting and eclectic place to be, clearly! October 19, 2009. Monday morning radio show again, today. I do this every Monday, between 7 and 9 p.m., with Mark Voyce (co-owner of Bocados Bistro). It's a mix of music, community updates, interviews with Salt Spring Islanders -- to date, have had Tim Cahill talk about emergency preparedness, and the importance of setting up neighbourhood groups. We also had David Young, a very well known designer/his company is international, come in and talk about his kinetic installation at a U.S. Mall. Bruno Gonzalez, who runs Rendezvous Cafe, with Brigitte, popped by to speak about the importance of "teroir" in French wine-making, and the differences between the North American and the French approach to same. Maureen Moore, who is the on-island representative for Raffi's Child Honouring Centre project also came by, and introduced the recent fundraiser/nine writers speaking about childhood experiences event. Lisa Sliwowska also came by, and spoke about her Open Door interior design company, and her thoughts on making a space a "home". Today, it was Garth Hendren, who is also the CRD representative on Salt Spring (an elected position), and he spoke about his interest in textiles and his collection of same. He's agreed to come back, as we wanted to explore the path leading off from this, about the mingling of art and economics. More later! This is community radio, and it is live. If you can catch it locally, it's at 107.9 on the fm dial. If not, try the website (www.cfsi-fm.com) and streaming audio. Every Monday, it's the "Potpourri with Li" two hour show, and Mark Voyce is my producer. No, it's not about real estate...we all have day jobs, and most of us love them/are passionate about same (I know I am!), but I really want to introduce the exceptional Islanders I've been lucky to meet, over the years, so that all Salt Spring knows them, too! If you'd like to be included, please just email or phone me. I know it's early, but it's fun, and you get to choose some music, too! (I know, I know...I'm stuck in that 70s time tunnel). October 18, 2009. "Every river has its banks, Every ocean has its shores." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") October 17, 2009. Here's an exceptional oceanfront opportunity on special Salt Spring Island! Private, quiet, sunny (s/sw/w -- sunsets, here!), "point" of land, with easy access to crushed shell/sand beach (oceanside deck with firepit, for cosy evenings, under the stars!). Heirloom orchard, mainly level property, appealing courtyard/garden entry (enjoy your morning coffee, here). Formal entry/foyer opens to tranquil living (feature fireplace) and oceanside dining. Country kitchen, with access to oceanside decking (dine alfresco). Master sitting with dressing room and superb ensuite arrangement, in its own private "wing". Library/den, guest bedroom, full bathroom, spacious laundry and mudroom/entry, office complete the main level. Attached double garage. Garden level offers media/games room area, plus bedroom and bathroom. The plus? Detached oceanside studio -- an artist's delight! Mooring buoy in place; foreshore licence, too -- build your dock and keep your boat at home. This is truly a very unique oceanfront property, in a premier area of Salt Spring Island. Enjoy! October 16, 2009. If you haven't popped by the Salt Spring Roasting Company, do so soon -- enjoy a latte there, and ponder the exquisite drawings showcased on the walls. Charles Breth is a sculptor, and this is a rare exhibition of his drawings. The presentation continues till end of October. This Monday, the 19th, there's a live multi-media show about the life of Galileo, and the music of his time. Meet Dava Sobel, author of "Galileo's Daughter". At ArtSpring, starting at 8 p.m. Call for ticket info: 250-537-2102. This Sunday, the 18th, catch Jazz/Swing, with Quint Essentials, at Moby's (7 to 10 p.m.). Leon Bibb and Lisa Maxx reunite with a concert at ArtSpring, on Oct. 22nd -- mark your calenders, and don't miss this one! Starts at 8 p.m. -- ticket info at 250-537-2102. Always wanted to learn to knit? And, to do something "good" for the world? Here's your chance! Salty Yarners, a knitting group on the Island, involved in the Dorcas Project, are giving classes, starting at 2:30 p.m., on the third Monday of each month (held at Stitches). Registration is free if knitters purchase yarn at Stitches. Call Alice, for more information on both the classes and the Dorcas Project: 250-538-0211. Tomorrow, Saturday, is the Dance at Fulford Hall, with Georgia Strait Big Band and Swing Shift Band...yes, it's the Battle of the Bands! Starts at 8 p.m. Tickets at ArtSpring and at Acoustic Planet. Enjoy! On October 25th, there's a book launch on Galiano Island...catch the ferry, enjoy, and still make it back to Salt Spring that evening...it's a great day trip idea. It starts at 3 p.m., at Galiano's South Hall. A Thousand Dreams, Vancouver's Downtown East Side and the Fight for its Future, is a mix of history, journalism, political analysis, and first-person accounts. Starting tonight, at 5 p.m., with a catered opening reception for a week long black culture-related art exhibit, at ArtSpring, and running through this weekend with other events (2 p.m. to 6 p.m., on the 17th, there's a documentary, at ArtSpring, about the history of blacks in B.C.). The All Souls Rising presentations end with the Leon Bibb/Lisa Maxx concert, on the 22nd. Pick up today's Driftwood weekender, for a cover story on All Souls Rising. Don't forget to keep your fm dial at 107.9, and catch the gems of your community radio. No signal where you live? Streaming audio, at www.cfsi-fm.com will keep you in the mix! Monday mornings, 7 to 9 a.m. is my slot, along with Mark Voyce. Yes, it's Fall, and yes, it's raining, but there's lots to do and to see and to participate in. Enjoy! October 15, 2009. "Only of one thing I am sure: When I dream, I am always ageless." (poet, Elizabeth Coatsworth) October 14, 2009. Here we continue, in our 21st Century binary world...computer-speak has channeled us into this on/off, on/off, act/react, act/react universe. No grey territory of compromise available. In economic issues, it's the argument between deflation and inflation. Neither are good scenarios. The inflationary stream of thinking is seemingly gaining credence. Is this the reason for the sudden upsurge in activity, in the higher end property category, since the third week in September? Fear propels, as well as causes hesitation. Good hard assets are one way to protect one's capital, in an inflationary time. Yes, gold is one vehicle, and so are fine art, gems, and other "one off" items of value. Another one is good real estate investment. For the Gulf Islands, the Islands Trust cap on growth has created a "limited inventory" motif. Although the real estate market in our area flattened in mid-2006, with ever diminishing sales in 2007, and a bottoming out in 2008, we have seen an uptick in activity, in 2009, in the low end residential, since February. Undeveloped land and higher end opportunities remained very flat. Now, that seems to have changed. It could be a fear that cash will be the next bubble that is propelling this interest. Viewings of properties over 2 million have suddenly surged, just since close of September. The first sale over two million, since February 2008, took place last week. Viewings continue, meantime, in properties between one million and four million. The people viewing are serious, and the only "hesitation" is about the "where" to buy conundrum. Salt Spring Island and the Southern Gulf Islands are in competition with other coastal areas, and this has been the case for the past eight or so years. The internet, which erased geography and time, also created a non-local buyer profile, for the Southern Gulf Islands. The "long distance" buyer has to decide exactly where to locate. This creates time lags in sales, of course, as it usually means more than one visit, before the buyer decides "for" a particular location. This time lag element is present regardless of market trend in play, at any given time. I did think we would see a "later and longer" scenario develop, this calendar year, for the higher end property options, and that it would take until the Fall for the higher end to experience that "trickle up" effect. Inventory remains stable. Unless one has to, an owner isn't rushing to sell. "Where would I go? what would I do with the money?" is an owner's refrain. It's the same tune, though, that the buyer, in all price ranges. now seems to be humming..."if I'm going to get out of a heavy cash position, and lock into a good hard asset real estate investment, now is the time". If the inflationary argument wins the day, we will see interest rates going up. Interesting, then, that on the 9th, Australia raised interest rates. No one really knows what is happening...the talking heads repeat the 20th Century responses, and in this new binary world, they don't work. The results of the huge bailouts/printing of paper money/the run up of debt, may certainly end up with hyperinflation as the result. This could be with us by mid-2010. No one has a crystal ball. This is an excellent time to be a buyer, however. Sellers, if they are seriously for sale, will look at all reasonable offers. Interest rates remain low. Cash positions do not bring growth. Cash positions might be at risk...are the banks secure? Mmm...sounds like a time to be securing capital, by prudent hard asset investing. For a tiny bit longer, things are in the favour of the buyer.... How may I help you to find your special Salt Spring Island or Southern Gulf Islands gem? I look forward to your call. liread33@gmail.com October 13, 2009. "Learning is the fountain of youth. No matter how old you are, You mustn't stop growing." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") October 12, 2009. Happy Thanksgiving! October 11, 2009. Here is the very best w.f. opportunity on prestigious Scott Point Drive. An appealing custom "west coast style" home, with sunny (s/sw/w exposures) privacy, lovely vistas out Welbury Bay to Ganges Harbour, and privacy from neighbouring parcels...this is a gem! Foreshore licence allows one to build a dock...in the lee of Welbury Bay, this allows for secure summer moorage. Entry/foyer, with spacious kitchen, pantry, breakfast area, laundry off, in its own "wing", open plan living (feature stone fireplace)/dining, easy access out to spacious oceanside decking. Bedrooms in own "wing", loft office space, plus garden level to develop as separate suite, if desired (currently large workshop/studio space, family room, storage). The plus? A sweetie separate guest studio/cottage could be updated. Garage, too. Lovely forest surround, here. Enjoy! October 10, 2009. Wow! 25+ acres, with mainly level and arable land, and excellent sun exposure all day/year round. Some Harbour views, plus mountain vistas. In the quiet "south end", could walk to Fulford Village if you wished to, and just a stroll to Drummond Park and to the beach! A large "barn"/workshop, lovely pond, and the potential to create your dream estate and to be self-sufficient. Walk this one soon. A great opportunity, on special Salt Spring Island. October 9, 2009. Don't forget the J. Mitchell Gallery 2009 Fall Exhibition opening tonight...5 to 8 p.m. Show runs till November 8th. Along with the stellar roster of artists, at this fine gallery, the Fall show highlights Leroy Jensen, Gerda Lattey, and Karen Reiss. Wave, if you see me! The Monday morning (7 to 9 a.m.) radio show that I'm doing with Mark Voyce, of Bocados Bistro, will pick up again on the 19th. As this Monday is the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday, the station is offering a day / evening of music only. Regular programming picks up next week. To date, I've really appreciated David Young coming in, to be interviewed, and offering so many great ideas in "green design" (his kinetic installation at a major U.S. mall was very interesting, indeed!). Also Tim Cahill, who heads up the Island's emergency preparedness group...call him, for pointers, in how to set up your neighbourhood for emergencies. Enjoyed, too, Bruno Gonzalez' thoughts on the differences between wine making in France and in North America...and the importance of terroir, to French wines. (Bruno and his wife, Brigitte, own Rendezvous Cafe). Maureen Moore also dropped by, to speak about Raffi's Child Honouring Centre, and also to encourage attendance at the 9 writers recent presentation...I did go, and it was inspiring! Most recently, the very talented Lisa Sliwowska popped in, and gave some illuminating thoughts on design trends. Lisa's interior design company is called, most appropriately, Open Door. All these talented people have agreed to return, and to speak about other things they're involved in. It is community radio, and I see my show as a venue for people to share what they're about. If you'd like to come by, just give me a call...look forward to speaking with you "on air". Corinne West, with Doug Cox, plays on the 12th, Thanksgiving Monday, at Fulford Hall...it's the Salt Spring Folk Club presentation. Soups, Suppers, Sweets by Fiddlehead Catering. Tickets at Acoustic Planet, Salt Spring Books, and Stuff and Nonsense, or, at the door. A personal narratives workshop is being held tomorrow, the 10th. If you're a writer, then here's your opportunity to explore the narratives of lives, at a Salt Spring Community Education workshop, with Lorraine Gane. A full day, from 10 to 4. Call Lorraine at 250-537-5294, for more details. Salt Spring's Weavers and Spinners Guild is staging its first Guild Exhibition and Sale over the Thanksgiving Weekend, at ArtSpring. Open daily, from 10 to 4 -- enjoy! If you find yourself off island, and close to Sidney, remember the Sidney Fine Art Show -- on October 16, 17, 18 at Mary Winspear Centre, in Sidney. Door prizes every day. Looking for a turkey dinner out, to celebrate Thanksgiving? Calvin's Bistro, Harbour House Hotel, Salt Spring Inn, and Rock Salt Cafe are all offering the traditional feast. The Balkan Babes, an award winning women's vocal ensemble, from Victoria, will play Salt Spring on the 16th, at the Unnited Church and play Pender on the 17th, at the Community Hall. Tickets at the door, and concerts begin at 7:30. Something a little different! Sunday, the 11th, it's jazz at Moby's, with Sue Newman & friends (7 to 10 p.m.). Pop by and see what the talented Bruce, at Bruce's Kitchen, in Harbour Centre, is creating for you. Organic is the key to his cuisine. Eat in or take out...the healthy choice, when you're in a hurry, and want to pick up something yummy/head home. He offers a catering service, too. Enjoy these softer days...yes, it's steadily getting darker earlier, but Fall is harvest time, and the beauty of fruition surrounds us. October 8, 2009. This is the Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend coming up...it's always at the beginning of October, and is a signal for Fall turning to Winter, regardless of what the calendar says! The Saturday Market in the Park runs "officially" from Victoria Day in mid-May to Thanksgiving Weekend. There are often earlier and later vendors, of course, but the "main grid" falls in that seasonality that marks our Island rhythm. Thanksgiving is at Harvest time, and it is a space in the year to enjoy fruition, and to remember what some philosophies term "the attitude of gratitude". There are troubles abounding in the world, right now -- wars, famine, collapsed economies, bringing severe hardship among families in both developed and developing countries...no one is immune from worry and changed circumstances. Nevertheless, this is a moment to count the many positive things in our lives, to gather with family and with friends, to enjoy the harvest feast, and also to include those who are alone...perhaps it's as a visitor in a hospital or nursing home situation, as a volunteer. Perhaps it's helping out with facilities that work with the homeless. Lots of things we can do to remember those less fortunate. Locally, we are so lucky to be on beautiful Salt Spring Island...it's a foodies paradise, with many organic farms and restaurants that support same. Perhaps this is the year not to cook, but to go out and celebrate at one of the restaurants doing the traditional turkey dinner (Calvin's, Harbour House Hotel, Salt Spring Inn), with great organic veggies as sides. Whatever your pleasure, remember to be thankful.... October 7, 2009. Here's an exceptional Maple Bay oceanview property, close to all the appealing elements that make Maple Bay so special, and enjoying its own serene world. Essentially a new home, this renovation is stellar...two bed-sitting areas, both ensuite, at garden level, with private entrances. Dramatic entry/foyer. Open plan living/dining, with custom stair access. The living area is a wonderful light filled space with so many custom finishes...a pleasure to be present, here. A cook's dream kitchen, a bedroom and a guest bath, plus a library/den complete the main level. The master, with sitting area, and an exceptional ensuite, is in its own private "loft" wing. Custom landscaping, many unique features here, in the home's exterior...a sophisticated rural experience awaits your pleasure. Ready to just move into and to enjoy. Irreplaceable, and a true "best buy" opportunity. October 6, 2009. BBC news reports : US economic power 'is declining' Technique can pinpoint tinnitus Feeding 'speeds surgery recovery' Fossil finds extend human story The Pacific 'Ring of Fire' Herschel scans hidden Milky Way Padang lives with quake stress Sony shows off 3D TV technology 'Time telescope' could boost web Suu Kyi in Burma government talks Can India's economy overtake China Pope warns of 'new colonialism October 5, 2009. Here is a custom home, full of unique ideas, with fine finishes, awaiting your pleasure! On six plus private and sunny acres, this land enjoys both sunrises and sunsets, and has ocean and mountain viewscapes. Close to all amenities, including to golf, tennis, theatre, Village services, beach, lake, the property also enjoys a quiet serenity. The main level of this custom home offers dramatic living room, with feature energy efficient stone fireplace, library off, oceanview dining, a cook's dream kitchen, solarium off. The master sitting area, with ensuite, and private deck, is in its own "wing". Guest beds/bath, plus laundry room, also in own "wing". Lower garden level offers games room, lots of storage, terrific workshop, wine room, guest bath. Spacious decking on both levels, expands summer living pleasures! A hot tub with a view! Stroll a breezeway deck to a gazebo with firepit and an oceanview. Organic garden and orchard (enjoy your own peaches!), plus lots of room to develop a separate guest cottage, and a separate studio, if desired. Be self-sufficient here. It's a treasure! October 4, 2009. Yes, this is the Apple Fest day, the 11th annual one...make sure you get out there and appreciate the restoration of these heirloom apple orchards, and to sample the wonderful exhibits, and studios open for breads, baked delicacies, vineyard tastings...it's the thanksgiving/harvest time of the year, and a great day to enjoy (sunny/crisp, too, a terrific Fall experience). Mark your calendars for J. Mitchell Gallery's Fall Exhibition...opening reception on October 9th, from 5 to 8 p.m. The Exhibition of latest works runs from October 9 to November 8, and features Leroy Jensen, Gerda Lattey, Karen Reiss among others. Don't miss this! Canada's premiere wildlife painter and environmentalist, Robert Bateman, who now makes his home on Salt Spring Island, is showcasing his art in Russia. A retrospective of his life's work is being showcased on a four-city tour: the State Russian Museum in St. Petersberg, the Ivanovo Regional Art Museum, the Tula Museum of Fine Art, and the Tsarystyno Palace Art Museum in Moscow. Bateman created three new pieces, a tribute to Russian wildlife, for the occasion. This is an amazing presentation of a very talented artist, who just happens to be Canadian. We're lucky! Don't forget to tune into my Monday Morning live radio show, between 7 and 9 a.m. -- music and musings! I do this with Mark Voyce, of Bocados Bistro, who is the "producer" of the show and the one in charge of the tech side of things. Not my forte! No ability to phone in, yet (probably not before November, according to the station's owners), so am inviting people to drop by and be "interviewed". If you have something you'd like to showcase, in this great community of ours, I'd like to talk with you about it. Just give me a call! The show is about the Island and the Islanders, and not about real estate -- that's my day job! Look forward to hearing from you. If you can't get the signal at 107.9, then catch it via streaming audio, off the website (www.cfsi-fm.com). Thank you! Next weekend is the Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend holiday...lots of events on Island, if you're heading this way. Drop in and say hello, and check out my seaside office, in Ganges Village (across from the Ganges Marina). October 3, 2009. Here is a superlative lifestyle awaiting your pleasure, on special Salt Spring Island. Restored authentic Arts and Crafts home, with new garden level (separate guest/inlaw suite, plus spacious storage, walk in cedar closet), and new upper master/siting/ensuite private space. Ocean vistas, and sunrises plus sunsets, at this treasure. Easy access oceanfront, with great beach...wander, beachcomb, warm ocean swimming in this area, too. Wildlife abounds...seals, eagles, deer. Only five w.f. parcels in this exclusive enclave, with a shared "park reserve" area that guarantees privacy. This is a very sophisticated home, with a country ambiance. Close to all amenities, yet in its own serene world. You will love this! October 2, 2009. Mark your calendars! A community fire drill takes place on Wednesday, October 7th, at 6:30 p.m. If a fire ever occurred in your house, can you get yourself and your family out, safely? Review your escape routes, test all smoke alarms, practice your escape route, gather at your designated meeting place, & know two ways out of every room. Emergency preparedness saves lives! For additional information, or help with your plan of action, check out: www.saltspringfire.com The wonderful annual Apple Festival is on Sunday, October 4th. Salt Spring Vineyard is offering Apple Pie (dessert wine) at their vineyard on Lees Road. Live music, too, on both Sat. and Sunday (12 to 5). Live Jazz, Blues and Soul, every weekend throughout the winter, at Harbour House Hotel, Friday and Saturday nights, from 7:30 to 10 p.m., in their restaurant. Check it out! Don't miss Michael Ableman's "Thinking Like an Island", at ArtSpring, on October 15th, starting at 7:30 p.m. There's a live and silent auction, as it's a fundraiser for the Salt Spring Conservancy. The book launch of Brian Brett's "Trauma Farm: A Rebel History of Rural Life" takes place at ArtSpring, on October 8, at 7 p.m. Check out Foxglove Farm and its programs, so that you can be a part of the excitement and the learning experience, "next season" -- this past summer was very successful. www.foxglovefarmbc.ca Don't forget to check out the Salt Spring Island Bread Co. during the Apple Festival (9 a/.m. to 5 p.m. on October 4th. Available: Heather's baking, Di's Pies, Tony's Tarts, Stan's BBQ pork, Phillip's BBQ beef ribs. Enjoy! On October 3, at ArtSpring, starting at 8 p.m., it's PIGS: Canada's Most Authentic Pink Floyd Tribute Band. I collect time tunnels...how about you??? Lantern workshops are ongoing in October, in preparation for the annual Hallowe'en lantern parade/meander through Ganges Village, with stories, ending up at the fireworks. Contact Wendi Gilson at: wendigilson@yahoo.cafor details. Catch Ian Thomas' show at The Point Gallery -- Family Albums continues till October 12th. Such a lot to see and do, in this "softer season" called early Fall...enjoy! October 1, 2009. "Why mourn for a cocoon After the butterfly has flown?" (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations")

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