Two extraordinary books, this time; one is fiction but has an amazing follow-up story in to-day’s world; and the other is a science based book which is very relevant to to-day’s world.
Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones.
This is the story of a little girl living on the island of Bougainville, to the North East of Australia. A revolution is in progress and all the whites have left the island except one man, Mr. Watt, who is married to a native girl. Mr. Watt decides to keep the school open for the children but has only a copy of Great Expectations from which to teach. You’ve guessed it, hence the name of the book Mr. Pip.
The story of the orphan Pip living in this mysterious city of London becomes so fascinating to the children, especially a 13 year old girl named Matilda, that all they want is to take shelter in their minds from the ravages of real life on the island and immerse themselves in Dickens’s story. But too much imagination can be a dangerous thing.
The story is well written in a very good story telling style that will keep you happily turning the pages. Lloyd Jones won the Commonwealth Writer’s Prize Best Book Award and was short-listed for the Man Booker Prize for this one.
And now to the modern day part of this story. On your computer, (don’t tell me you don’t have one; if so, go to the library and use one there because you must see this follow-up to the book.) Once in front of the machine, go to Google and type in the words: ‘Coconut revolution’. Up will come a page of listings on the top of which are the words: video results. Click on: Coconut Revolution (2001 50mins) and watch. What a fascinating story. You are now watching the BBC documentary from the very same island where the people have managed to win back control of the south where a huge copper mine had been established by RTZ, the world’s largest mining company. They started their fight back by firing arrows at the helicopter gun ships and making fuel for their truck out of Coconut milk!! There is even another update from when elections were being held on the island and even the rumour of a referendum to decide if they should declare independence from New Guinea.
I went back and read the book again with the video in mind. An interesting experience, to say the least.
Under a Green Sky by Peter D. Ward Ph.D.
More than a couple of hundred million years ago, there was a cataclysmic event which caused the extinction of nearly 97% of all species on earth. This event was called the Permian Extinction. All through the 1990’s and into this century, scientists have been arguing over whether or not this happened due to something large dropping out of the skies or was it caused by something much more sinister happening here on earth.
Don’t worry. You don’t need to be a scientist to understand this book. It is a fascinating chronological discussion by an expert Paleontologist who himself wrote this book, being fresh from his research and subsequent explanation of how the dinosaurs became extinct due to a 10kms wide meteor hitting the earth.
In Under a Green Sky, Peter Ward explains not only the Permian Extinction but also four others of a lesser nature, but none the less, disastrous. The evidence for these ancient cataclysms show very clearly that global warming should not be ignored. Once the oceans start belching the poisonous gas, Hydrogen Sulphide, into a poisoned atmosphere under a sky that is always slightly green and hazy, there is little left but the same dire fate that has overwhelmed this planet several times before.
Some of you may remember a while back when a whole group of people and animals living in the bowl of a long extinct volcano on the west coast of Africa were found dead one morning after the volcano had belched out a cloud of Hydrogen Sulphide during the night, killing every living thing in the area.
Now, once again you have the opportunity to see the essence of this book on video. Go to cbc.ca and click on documentaries. Now look for One Ocean Episode One. This is a fascinating film about this subject and a lot of it is narrated by Peter Ward as he goes about his studies, including some beautiful underwater filming.
Even if you don’t believe in anything to do with global warming, I would urge you to read this book and watch the video. Personally, and for the sake of my grandchildren and their future families, I would rather do something about this now, than leave it for them to have to deal with, by which time it could be a lot more serious.
These two should definitely give you some good chewing till next time,
While many are trying to stretch their dollars and pinch their pennies to cope with a recession that is over according to the pundits and politicians, the City of Victoria has its own “Happy New Year” gift to its 78,000 residents.
This little bit of “lagniappe” comes in the form of a 4.3 percent hike in property taxes this year, (or roughly an extra $17 per 100,000 in assessed property values), in spite of the fact that there are no plans for new city programs or services.
But wait, there’s more belt-tightening news on the way for taxpayers. They can expect to shell out a compounded tax increase of 24 percent or more over the next five years to the City, which will likely dwarf the expected provincial and federal government tax dollars from individuals needed to pay for a ballooning public deficit and debt. And, word has it that the economists expect consumers to step up to the plate and spend like there’s no tomorrow, not to mention mortgage their futures in order to save an ark filled with termites. Sounds like a great plan eh?
The city currently operates on an annual budget of $190 million, of which close to half represent salaries and benefits for city staff and police, while the remainder is devoted to sustaining its physical operations.
The capital city of British Columbia is certainly a jewel in the eye of its many millions of tourists, but it desperately needs more funds to finance a host of infrastructure projects worth hundreds of millions of dollars such as seismic upgrades to city facilities, repairs to its century old sewage pipes, not to mention refurbishments of a blue bridge and perhaps the Crystal Pool.
How to finance operating expenses that continue to grow faster than inflation and that are quickly depleting the city’s reserve fund, is a dilemma that elected officials, city staff and taxpayers must grapple with during the month of March (which is when the city’s budget is reviewed).
Maybe it’s time to dust off those hair-brained ideas, you know the new diamond-studded downtown destination spot, yup, that 24-hour-a-day floating casino in the Inner Harbor? Perhaps Disney could help us turn Beacon Hill Park into a fun-filled “heritage” theme park, (plus one humongous map of BC)? Or, how about demolishing all those dilapidated apartments in James Bay and replacing them with multi-million dollar high-rise condos, that’s right the ones with those panoramic views minus the cruise ships for those folks fleeing from the blizzards, bears and badlands of Alberta?
Okay, so James Bay doesn’t have a super-sized cinema…but it does have a fun flick or two plus some unforgettable nummies to enjoy with your noir/naughty night out!
Wednesday, February 10, 6:00– 9:00 pm: A sinfully delicious menu inspired by the film"Chocolat" (which will be shown during this unforgettable entertainment event at The Superior Cafe, 106 Superior Superior Street). Reservations: 250.380.9515
Wednesday, February 24, 2:30 pm: Movie & Beef Stroganoff Supper – "An Affair to Remember" at James Bay New Horizons Activity Center, 234 Menzies Street. ($5.50 per person plus $35 annual membership fee). For more information contact: programsjb.nh@shawbiz.ca or tel: 250.386.3035.
Wednesday, February 24, 6:00-9:00 pm: Great meal followed by the David Lynch film, "Blue Velvet". Come dressed in the style of the film; prizes awarded for the best-dressed film buff; movie starts at 7:15 pm at The Superior Cafe, 106 Superior Superior Street). Reservations: 250.380.9515
Friday Movie Nights – hosted by VLSCS at James Bay New Horizons Activities Centre, 234 Menzies Street. For more information contact: programsjb.nh@shawbiz.ca or tel: 250.386.3035
This month it’s time for pucker-power people to capitalize on amusing arm candy, curious candy kisses, and oodles of cheeky chocolate chewies…so get rid of that godawful gum, kick up your heels and enjoy yourself for pity’s sake!
ARIES (21 March – 19 April)
Oh yoo hoo…"Ram-a-dama-a-ding", is anyone home? Get with the program will you! Okay, so goats can become a wee bit harsh and nasty if their fragile egos are threatened, are perhaps a tad jealous of other people’s abilities and achievements, and often have friends that don’t last too long. Get over it! Suck it up…cause this month it’s time to dress for success in your knightly armour (or powder puff outfit), jump on a trusty steed (or a Smart car), and find a fair lady/damsel-in-distress worth saving (or a frog worth kissing whatever the case may be).
TAURUS (20 April – 20 May)
The "Year of the Ox" means that you should probably avoid hanging out in china shops hoping to bump into a "Cowabunga Cutie" with disasterous consquences. Just accept with grace the fact that you’re a boring beast with a "bull-headed" nature, which is why you should wake up and smell the roses, put on your rose-colored glasses, crank up the melodious music and play on the back forty with the deer and the antelope!
GEMINI (21 May – 20 June)
Let’s face it, where would you be without your cell phone, two-way talking wrist-watch, or your twitter text messaging Blackberry? Up the creek without a paddle…a fate worse than death, that’s what. The consummate gabbing guru/goddess…you could sweet-talk that sassy serpent out of any apple you wanted. Quit complaining about having to bob for apples…just find someone who’s sweet as apple pie to keep you company on February 14th!
CANCER (21 June – 22 July)
So what if you’re a cranky, crab-faced crustacean with long arms and legs who dribbles food or drinks even when past babyhood. The good news is that you don’t like being in the limelight, enjoy your own company for hours on end, and adore inventing invisible playmates who never give you any grief. All of which means that your best bet for Valentine’s this year is to host a tea party for all your invisible friends, play a game of tiddlywinks, and toss that ridiculous bib…it doesn’t become you!
LEO (23 July – 22 August)
You may be thinking that Valentine’s Day entitles you to the lion’s share of all those dashing dudes or lovely ladies hanging out at your local watering hole. However, you might be well advised to rest, relax, and take a long cat-nap because this year it’s a Cowabunga Cutie who has center stage. Love may be a many-splendored thing, but you should take a pass this year…unless you adore stepping in a whole lot of cowpies!
VIRGO (23 August – 22 September)
Did you know that your Tarot card is "the hermit"? That probably explains why you’ll be spending Valentine’s Day home alone, probably enjoying a bit of platonic flirtation with yourself in the mirror, and leafing through your bedside library to find an informative book on sex because you dearly want to understand the finer details of self-improvement and fertility not to mention the pros and cons of getting involved with anyone who doesn’t appreciate your notion of duty with devotion.
LIBRA (23 September – 22 October)
Although you’re not overly-fond of vigorous sweaty exercises, terrified of being alone, and see yourself as the ugly duckling of the fairy tale, the good news is that your narcissistic, indecisive, and sulky disposition is unlikely to attract admirers, (unless they have deep pockets, good social or business connections and are willing to let you grow into a swan on the long-term installment plan). So, forget about being an "ugly ducking"…be a glow-worm instead and let your lovely light shine!
SCORPIO (23 October – 21 November)
Since Venus is in Aries, it’s time for Spunky Scorpion to strut their stuff rather than waiting for love to knock on your frigging door! In your case, that means taking a break from the rat race, indulging yourself in a bit of self-love, surrounding yourself with creature comforts, and pampering your Pluto self to smithereens! Make sure you stock your goody bag with your favorite melt-in-your-mouth liqueur-flavored chocolates!
SAGITTARIUS (21 November – 22 December)
Okay, so we know that Cupid is your idol. But let’s face it, you haven’t exactly been on target with your bow and arrow lately (especially in the love department). So Tin-Man, frankly it’s time to put your spurs on, get into the saddle again, and jump back up onto your hobby horse! Whatever you do, steer clear of any possessive people, conservative thinkers, and boldless bureaucrats, they will not make your heart go pitty-pat. Don’t forget to smile so your smooch-inclined soul-mate can find you!
CAPRICORN (22 December – 19 January)
The good news is that Venus is in your communications sector and Mars is in Capricorn, your "me" sector. All of which means that you have a winsome way with words (which means you won’t be making the same mistake as last year when you wrote that loopy love letter to that nerdy next-door neighbor). And, since firey Mars is sending up fireworks hailing the fact that there is no "I" in team, you’ll be glad to know that the coast is clear so now you can go out and find a honey-bun…just be careful of the sticky ones!
AQUARIUS (20 January – 18 February)
Okay water-bearer, it’s time to toss your wet-blanket, worry-wart friends and find the love of your life. Venus and Mars, planets more commonly known as cosmic lovers of the zodiac are in sync, thank goodness. All of which means that you’ll have more mad money in your pocket, more self-confidence to slay a dragon or two, and inner peace in your life so you can enjoy the merits of sleep-walking for a change. Now’s the best time to play "spin the bottle"; after all, it’s a great game of chance and a wonderful way to meet pucker-powered people!
PISCES (19 February – 20 March)
Pisces may be a wonderful water sign, but that’s no reason for you to hang out with funny fish all the time. In fact, since Neptune rules your sign, and your sign rules your feet, perhaps you’ll meet your soul mate while walking on water or dancing in a dinghy. On the other hand, if you like swimming, sailing, snorkeling and taking long walks along the beach, you may bump into your bosom buddy when you least expect it! Go for it you ripsnorting rudderless romantic!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE WACKIEST WATER-BEARING WUNDERKIN IN THE WORLD!
Compiled by Lady Beatrice Blitterlees (referred to in polite circles as the Duchess of Dither) and edited by Lord Earl Craboon (better known in the upper echelons of society as the Duke of Doorknobs)
Why is everyone so happy?
Because it’s festive, flirtatious and frolicking February of course — ahem …the shortest month of the year. Time to sample some frisky fortune cookies for a change.
So, without further adieu, here’s what you can do to keep yourself tickled pink for the entire month of February:
February 1: International Daydreaming Day (time to see who can gaze vacantly into space the longest while listening to a long-winded lecture or munching on molecules)
February 2: Hug a Hog Day (time to press the flesh with grunt and groan types who seem to spend most of their time in the barnyard of life chasing their own shadows)
February 3: Aquarius Heritage Day (beware of water carrying geniuses eating unusual food and are a tad independent, mentally odd, tactless, or eccentric for their own good)
February 4: National ‘Pass the Buck Day’ (a wonderful way to honor those who are forever delegating dirty jobs to other poor souls lower down the food chain of life)
February 5: Whoop-De-Doo Day (are you ready to build sandcastles in the air, draw outside the lines, and share your favorite wind-up toys with other grown-up kids at work?)
February 6: Ding Dong Appreciation Day (when was the last time you invited a bible-thumper or political candidate into your home to discuss the future of gaskets or grommets?)
February 7: National Tongue-Twister Day (Time to take the marbles out of your mouth and repeat after me, "Peter Piper picked a pack of pickled peppers…")
February 8: Elephant in the Living Room Appreciation Day (in honor of all sorts of big bogies or couch critters we ignore, and we’d just as soon others did too please!)
February 9: Cock-O’-The Walk Day (your frisky fortune cookie says it’s time to pay tribute to all the red roosters you know who are brave, motivated, proud, romantic, and a tad blunt …if truth be told )
February 10: Show & Tell Day (okay it’s about time to haul out your really neat travel slide show of your trip to Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan with spell-binding commentary!)
February 11: The-Right-Way-to-Do-It Day (there’s only one way to install a roll of toilet paper roll so that falls correctly!)
February 12: First-in-Line Day (If your surname name doesn’t begin with "X", "Y" or "Z", step to the back of the line!!)
February 13: Free Lunch Day (time to collect all those outstanding IOUs – wow are you ever lucky!)
February 14: Slings & Arrows of Outrageous Fortune Day (how else do you expect to bewitch a beautiful beast or bag a box of chocolates?)
February 15: Fly Your Own Flag Day (now where did I put that "Jolly Roger"?)
February 16: Gonad Games Day (a.k.a. Potentate Pissing Contests)
February 17: Red Devil Awareness Day (time to sprout horns, wear red tights and carry a booming great pitchfork to scare the heck out of your favorite Nemesis)
February 18: Dr. Seuss Appreciation Day (you’ll need all the help you can get just to speak in rhymes all day long)
February 19: Hopscotch Awareness Day (time to go back to recess time; hope you can hop, skip and jump or at least down a few shots of scotch or suds); if you don’t like "Hopscotch" celebrate "Temporary Insanity Day" instead!
February 20: Finger Food Appreciation Day (great news for weight-watchers, picky eaters, or those wanting to ditch dishwashing duty)
February 21: Chocolate Ice Cream for Breakfast Day (in honor of taboo treats parents tell you not to eat for the first meal of the day)
February 22: Galoshes, Gumboots & Go-Go Boots Day (time to pay homage to forgotten footwear worn by damsels-in-distress or devil-may-care types)
February 23: Divestment Awareness Day (time to indulge in nothing but Naked Truths about an entertaining Emperor without not so much as a figleaf to his name)
February 24: Fake or Flaunt It Day (the only day you get to act any way you please, provided of course you’re willing to pay the consequences of your foolish little escapades)
February 25: Pity Pot Day (time to trade in or toss your troubles away?)
February 26: Mental Floss Day (the only occasion you can tell "Knock-Knock jokes" all you want without fear of harrassment)
February 27: Break Open the Piggy-Bank Day (whoopee no time like the present to splurge on a great cause…you!)
February 28: Small Planet Appreciation Day (ever wonder what the world would be like without Venus and Mars gumming up the works?)
The Royal BC Museum, a well-known tourist destination in the City and a prominent landmark in the neighborhood of James will be undergoing a multi-million dollar makeover.
Built in 1967, the museum has hosted more than 30 million visitors. Over the next year, the museum will undergo a six million dollar upgrade of its electrical systems to improve the temperature and humidity levels. These systems are critical to preserving the museum’s significant collections which focus on the human and natural history of British Columbia and temporary exhibits from other countries and cultures.
The Museum, located at 675 Belleville Street, will be open daily from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. It is expected that the construction project will be completed by March 2011 with mininimal impact on operations of the museum during the next 12 months.
Victoria motorists, including those living in the James Bay neighborhood got a gas break yesterday — below $1.00 a litre.
Our local gas station located at 308 Menzies Street (t: 250.383.3612) posted 97.9 cents a litre for regular gas, a drop of 4.9 cents than the previous day.
Of course if you want to keep an eye of fares for fuel, you should probably check out Victoria Gas Prices. Aren’t you lucky you don’t live in Labrador City, Newfoundland & Labrador where the price at the pump reached $1.203/litre this week. Of course ex-patriots from Alberta who’ve flocked to Victoria to escape the rigors of the cold climate in winter, dearly miss the lowest gas prices in the country now — 88.9 cents a litre in Edmonton and Lloydminster!
It seems that crude il prices are likely to grow slowly and steadily as the global economy improves. The current recession has however reduced demand for gas, while we are experiencing a surplus in refining capacity. Inventories of wholesale gas appear to be strong suggesting that we may see some price stability at least over the spring period which should lift the spirit of drivers sorely in need of some upbeat news!
Now if you’re like Maxine, the mad maven in illustration above, you might want contact our City Councillor – Pam Madoff (City Hall Tel: 250.361.0221 or Home Tel: 250.384.6971) or the City Engineering Department (Tel: 250.361.0400) to request that they fill in the potholes and pave the streets properly so that we may enjoy a quality of life befitting those who live in the city’s oldest neighborhood. Remember, paradise is but a phone call away!
The Capital Regional District (CRD), established in 1966, is a federation of 13 muncipalities comprised of Central Saanich, Colwood, Esquimalt, Highlands, Langford, Metchosin, North Saanich, Oak Bay, Saanich, Sidney, Sooke, Victoria, and View Royal, plus three electoral areas including Juan de Fuca, Southern Gulf Islands, and Salt Spring Island.
The CRD is conducting a public consultation forum here in James Bay on Thursday, February 4, 2010 to gather views on what individuals think makes a livable and sustainable region.
Designed as an interactive event, (using MetroQuest’s innovative planning tool), participants will have a hand in shaping the future of the region which is home to approximately 350,000 people.
Whether individuals wish to attend this session in person or participate online, they will have a chance to “vote” on options for managing regional issues such as transportation, housing, and future growth locations.
This might well be of interest to those who are looking for effective ways to gather feedback from residents on issues such as transportation and housing, as well as amenities and services for the City of Victoria as well James Bay both of which will be updating their Official Community Plans in the near future.
Those interested in obtaining additional information or registering for this session, please visit the CRD Regional Planning website at www.crd.bc.ca/rgs.
WINTER/SPRING 2010 – CREATIVE & LEISURE ACTIVITIES FOR ADULTS IN JAMES BAY
When the Polar Bears and Snow Birds blow into town, things start happening! That’s when the local lollygaggers and leisure-challenged start looking for oodles of things to keep them occuppied.
So, if you’re looking for something to do besides bending your elbow, twiddling your thumbs, or gazing at your navel for inspiration…take a wee peek at what James Bay has to offer over the winter and spring months!
CLUBS & ACTIVITIES
Armchair Travel
Guest speakers invited to present their travel experiences accompanied by slides or videos. Refreshments offered. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Center)
Sundays 2:00 pm ($35 JBNH annual fee)
Be Alive!
Hosted by Guido Timmermans, a professional counselor, this group meets monthly to share their wisdom and personal experiences with one another…and a great way to celebrate life! (James Bay New Horizons Activity Center)
First Thursday 2:00 pm ($35 JBNH annual fee)
Buddies – “Adopt a Grandparent”
The After School Kids from James Bay Elementary Kindergarten and Grade One Program participates with seniors willing to participate in reading, crafts and games. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Center)
Thursdays 3:30 pm (Free)
Current Affairs
Lively discussion and debate including current events and politics followed by refreshments. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Center)
Wednesdays 10:00-11:30 am ($35 JBNH annual fee + $10 club fee/6 mos.)
Favorite Book Club
Members select a variety of fiction and non-fiction books to read and meets weekly to discuss them. Simply superb conversation and a great way to meet new friends. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Center)
Guest speakers program with diverse topics ranging from culture, tourism, civic matters, and informational sessions, followed by refreshments. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Center)
Those interested in knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting or other crafts are invited to join the group as well as display their crafts for sale at special events, sidewalk sales, or in a showcase. Refreshments available. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Center)
Tuesdays 1:00 pm ($35 JBNH annual fee)
Out-To-Lunch Bunch
A great way to meet new friends, great conversation and try out new eating establishments around Victoria. (Register at James Bay New Horizons Activity Center, annual fee $35).
Last Thursday of the month 12:00 noon (each members pays for their own meal)
This n’ That
Hosted by Elsie Farr, this group engages in a variety of different topics of interest to community members. Refreshments offered. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Center)
Wednesdays 2:00 pm ($35 JBNH annual fee)
CREATIVE ARTS:
Multi-Media for Budding Artists (of all levels)
Art class for grown-ups designed to tap into their inner artist. Will focus on realistic and abstract imagery, landscapes, people, animals and even cartoons. Participants will explore a variety of mediums including watercolour, acrylic and pastels. (James Bay Community School)
Tues Jan 26-Mar 2 7:00-8:30 pm 6/$55
Tues Apr 13-May 18 7:00-8:30 pm 6/$55
CULINARY ARTS:
Sushi Making & Other Japanese Cuisine
Learn how to make Sushi, an Edamame Salad and Shitake Teriyaki. Bring your appetite and an apron. (James Bay Community School)
Wed Feb 3 6:30-8:30 pm 1/$42
Italian Vegetarian
Learn how to make authentic Italian vegetarian food including a great Lasagne, Focaccia bread and Caesar Salad. (James Bay Community School)
Wed Mar 3 6:30-8:30 pm 1/$42
Potluck Hits!
Don’t know what to bring to a potluck meal. Well, here’s your chance to prepare some easy and tasty meals including Sweet & Sour Tempeh, Sesame Savoury Tofu Balls with a Miso Cashew Gravy, a Moroccan Quinoa and an Almond & Apricot Salad. (James Bay Community School)
Wed Apr 7 6:30-8:30 pm 1/$42
Mexican Vegetarian
Learn how to make a memorable Mexican meal or two. Menus include Smoked Tofu and Pinto Bean Enchiladas, a Black Bean, Orange & Chipotle Soup, a Mole (chocolate) sauce that’s served on chicken or tofu and a fresh salsa. Bring some containers and take food hope. Recipes supplied. (James Bay Community School)
Wed May 5 6:30-8:30 pm 1/$42
FOREIGN LANGUAGES:
French Conversation
These sessions are designed for those with a limited knowledge of French or who want to brush up on their French language skills. Will cover greetings, conversation about family, interests, ordering a meal, reserving a table, buying tickets, getting around in a city etc. (Sessions held at James Bay New Horizons Activity Centre)
Mon Jan 25-Mar 15 2:00-3:00 pm 8/$10
Spanish for Beginners
This course is designed for those who want to travel and learn basic vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, as well as idioms and expressions plus cultural information and traditions in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. (James Bay Community School)
Thurs Jan 14-Mar 4 7:00-8:30 pm 8/$50
Tues Apr 6-May 25 7:00-8:30 pm 8/$50
Spanish Conversation
Learn basic grammar skills and vocabulary to shop for clothing, souvenirs and other goods at a market, use past and future tenses, express your opinion, talk about your hobbies, interests or sports. (Sessions held at James Bay New Horizons Activity Centre)
Mon Jan. 25-Mar 15 12:30-1:30 pm 8/$40
Spanish Continuing
For those who have basic level Spanish and wish to expand their vocabulary and improve
grammar, pronunciation, reading and writing skills as well as conversational skills in an everyday setting. (James Bay Community School)
Tues Jan 12-Mar 2 7:00-8:30 pm 8/$50
Thur Apr 8-May 27 7:00-8:30 pm 8/$50
GAMES:
Contract Bridge
Meets on Fridays at 12:30 pm in James Bay New Horizons Activity Center. Refreshments available. $2.00 to play each week (plus annual $35 JBNH membership fee).
Fridays 12:30 pm
Duplicate Bridge
Meets on Fridays at 12:30 pm in James Bay New Horizons Activity Center. $3.00 to play each week (including refreshments), (plus annual $35 JBNH membership fee).
Fridays 12:30 pm
Euchre
Meets on Tuesdays at 1:00 pm and on Saturdays at 1:00 pm in pm in James Bay New Horizons Activity Center. Refreshments available. $2.00 to play each week (plus annual $35 JBNH membership fee).
Tuesdays 1:00 pm
Penny Bingo!
Meets on Mondays at 1:30 pm in James Bay New Horizons Activity Center. Refreshments available. $2.00 to play each week and 1 cent per card played (plus annual $35 JBNH membership fee). 50/50 draws and occasional door prizes offered.
Mondays 1:30 pm
Victoria Scrabble Club #402
Meets on Tuesdays at 6:00 pm in James Bay New Horizons Activity Center. Refreshments available. $3.00 to play each week (plus annual $35 JBNH membership fee).
Tuesdays 6:00 pm
Tuesday Scrabble Night
Join in a fun evening of Scrabble for the entire family and a great gathering place in James Bay. (James Bay Coffee & Books, 143 Menzies Street across from Thrifty’s)
Tuesdays 6:30-9:30 pm (Free with purchase of beverage/goody)
DANCE, MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS:
Advanced Hula Dance
This class blends the popular Hula and Caribbean dance forms and a great way to get some fun exercise! (Sessions held at James Bay New Horizons Activity Centre)
Mon Jan 18-Apr 26 12:30-1:30 pm 14/$20
Belly Dance
A great introduction to the art and culture of belly dancing, and a fine way to keep fit and healthy. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Centre)
Fri Jan 29-Mar. 19 3:00-4:30 pm 8/$40
Belly Dance
This class will encourage creative self-expression within a number of different styles while exploring the history of belly dancing and its culture. Bring your saucy scarf and sense of adventure. (James Bay Community School)
Wed Jan 13-Feb. 17 5:30-6:30 pm 6/$48
Wed Mar 3-Apr. 7 5:30-6:30 pm 6/$48
Wed Apr 21-May. 26 5:30-6:30 pm 6/$48
Guitar Lessons – New!
Learn to play simple arrangements of popular songs by reading music and basic classical techniques. (James Bay Community School)
Mon Jan 25-Mar 1 5:30-6:15 pm 6/$50
Mon Apr 12-May 17 5:30-6:15 pm 6/$50
Handbells
Learn how to play a musical instrument – handbells. It’s a great way to learn a first instrument for those who have not learned how to read music, or those with limited musical knowledge but a keen interest to play and have some fun. Handbells provided. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Centre)
Tues Jan 19-Mar 23 10:00-11:30 am 10/$20
Hand Drumming is Fun!
Learn the art of hand drumming from Gary Cohen and Amber Woods. Easy-to-follow, step-by-step instruction provided. All levels of skills and experience welcome in the workshops. Class includes world rhythms, drumming games and great grooves. Drums provided. (James Bay Community School)
Tues Jan 26 7:00-8:30 pm 1/$20
Tues Apr 13 7:00-8:30 pm 1/$20
Latin Dance
Participants will learn basic Latin dance steps such as Salsa, Mambo and Cha-cha. No partner required. (James Bay Community School)
Fri Jan 15-Feb 19 6:30-7:00pm 6/$42
Fri Feb 26-Mar 26 6:30-7:00pm 6/$42
Fri Apr 9-May 14 6:30-7:00pm 6/$42
Latin Fusion Dance
Participants will learn basic Latin dance steps such as Salsa, Mambo and Cha-cha. No partner required. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Centre)
Fri Jan 29-Mar 19 1:30-2:30pm 6/$40
Line Dancing
Learn some basic moves to some classic country and western tunes from the 50s and earlier. No partner required and no previous dance experience needed. Enjoy some fun with fitness!
Tues Jan 26-Mar 16 1:30-2:30 pm 8/$40
Olde Tyme Dances
Hosted by Eva and Archie Brown, this weekly social dance event is a great way to enjoy dancing, watching the crow or listening to some terrific music. Refreshments served. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Centre)
Thurs Jan-June 1:30pm $1.50 Drop-in-fee
Scottish Country Dance
Enjoy lively Celtic music and learn some basic Scottish Country Dance steps. (Sessions held at James Bay New Horizons Activity Centre)
Fri Jan-June 7:00 pm Drop-in fee (or by contribution)
Singing in Spanish
Join Marcelina and her guitar in some simple yet fun songs – lots of laughter and fun. No need to be a professional vocalist…everyone welcome. (Sessions held at James Bay New Horizons Activity Centre)
Mon Jan 25-Mar 15 11:00 am – 12:00 noon 8/$40
Square Dance Night with the “Ferris Wheelers”!
Join hosts Dave & Juanita Baird for some square dancing instruction, and superb social activity. Refreshments served. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Centre)
Tues Jan 12-June 8:00 pm Drop-in-free or admission by contribution
The Saints & Singers
This is a social choir group who learn a variety of folk songs, popular Broadway melodies and seasonal songs to entertain audiences in local concerts. (James Bay New Horizons Activity Centre)
Mon Jan-May 9:30 am $10 fee to join in and participate
The Saints & Swingers
A local jazz band that is open to everyone. Bring along your own instrument, practice with some amateur musicians who love to entertain others and have a good time.
Mon & Wed Jan-May 2:00 pm $20 fee to join in and participate
