Northern Groove - May 2010

MAY 2010

THE PEACE REGION’S ARTS AND CULTURE MAGAZINE

ROCK N ROLL WILL NEVER DIELOCAL BAND SUNSET SYMPATHY

SUMMER IN FORT ST JOHNREASONS TO STAY IN FSJ THIS SUMMER

CONTRIBUTORS

Tom Reinboldt, Paola Banks, Tony Warriner, Suzanne Anderson, Dave Tolley, Deb Butler, Henry See, Jodie Ponto, Jody Peck, Mark Bodner, Peter Mozola, Richard Zienkiewicz, Jake Huska, Russell Eggleston,

Shannon Butler, Sue Popesku, Allison Wenger Peck

Cover Photo - Russell Eggleston

THE NORTHERN GROOVE TEAM

Publisher - Russell [email protected]

Advertising - Dave [email protected]

Northern Groove Magazine

Published by Russell Eggleston Creative Services | RR1 Site 16 Comp. 30 | Fort St. John, BC | V1J 4M6

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE?4 - Upcoming Local Events

Arts

16 - On The Road with Jody Peck and Jodie Ponto

Culture

6 - Our Local Arts and Culture

22 - Deb Butler - Second Wind

24 - Cinco De Mayo Fundraiser Mexican Dinner

32 - Under the Yoga Tree

Food

12 - Jamaican-Me-Hungry

Maps

20 - 21 - MAP OF FORT ST JOHN

Music

18 - Rock ‘n Roll Will Never Die: an Interview with Sunset Sympathy

30 - Womansong: Fort St. John’s Own Lillith Fair

Photos

26 - 28 - Photo Recaps of: Daniel Wesley & Ryan Sebastiano, The Move Dance Centre, Arts Council Toga Party Fun-Raiser

36 - Local Newborn and Boudoir Photographer Allison Wenger Peck

Theatre

34 - The Melancholy Minstrel: A Special Play with Special Actors

35 - Peace River Zone Theatre Festival Schedule

Community

10 - Party In the Park

11 - Arts and Music For Better Living

14 - Summertime in Fort St. John

38 - Babies and Bellies: Viva Swanson

INDEX

COVER STORY:SUNSET SYMPATHY

PAGE 18

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UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTSTHIS MONTH Sat, May. 1 5:00pm - Peace Gallery North Art Auction - Quality Inn Northern Grand Hotel - Fort St. John

Sat, May. 17:00pm - Bridge to Broadway presents ‘Sex, Drugs, Rock and Roll’ - Lido Theatre - Fort St. John

Sat, May. 19:30pm - 12:30am - Heavy Things - Fynnigan’s Neighbourhood Pub - Dawson Creek

Sun, May. 27:00pm - Unto Him presents Going On With the Song - North Peace Cultural Centre - Fort St. John

Mon, May. 37:00pm - Jason Blaine - North Peace Cultural Centre - Fort St. John

Tue, May. 4 - Sun, May. 97:00pm - 10:00pm - Peace River Zone Theatre Festival - North Peace Cultural Centre - Fort St. John

Tue, May. 47:00pm - Strawberry Jam - Lido Theatre - Fort St. John

Tue, May. 4 - Sun, May. 97:00pm - ‘Post Cards from the East’ Art Exhibit - North Peace Cultural Centre - Fort St. John

Wed, May. 56:30pm - Cinco de Mayo Mexican Dinner - Whole Wheat and Honey - Fort St. John

Wed, May. 58:00pm - Open Mic On Tour - Casey’s Pub - Fort St. John

Thu, May. 67:00pm - 11:00pm - Freakshow: Ryan Stock’s Mayhem - Lido Theatre - Fort St. John

Thu, May. 67:00pm - School District #60 Band Concert - North Peace Secondary School - Fort St. John

Thu, May. 6 - Sat, May. 88:00pm - 11:00pm - Robby T - JD Fitzgerald’s Pub - Fort St. John

Fri, May. 7 - Fri, May. 28‘Sunny with Cloudy Periods’ Art Exhibit - Peace Gallery North - Fort St. John

Fri, May. 77:00pm - 28th annual Art Auction “Hang ‘em High” - Kiwanis Performing Arts Centre - Dawson Creek

Sat, May. 810:00am - 4:00pm - Annual Antique Sale and Mother’s Day Tea - North Peace Museum - Fort St. John

Sat, May. 87:00pm - 11:00pm - WOMANSONG 2010 - Lido Theatre - Fort St. John

Mon, May. 107:00pm - FSJ Film Society presents “Kenny” - An Australian Comedy - Lido Theatre - Fort St. John

Tue, May. 11ALL AGES CONCERT featuring Unleash The Archers, Scythia and Vexen - Lido Theatre - Fort St. John

Thu, May. 136:30pm - Composting Workshop by NEAT & FSJ Public Library - FSJ Public Library - Fort St. John

Thu, May. 13 - Sat, May. 158:00pm - 11:00pm - County Line - JD Fitzgerald’s Pub - Fort St. John

Fri, May. 14 - Sun, May. 16Life Drawing Workshop by Flying Colours Artists

Fri, May. 147:00pm - Missoula Theatre with Bert Ambrose School - North Peace Cultural Centre - Fort St. John

Sat, May. 159:00am - 5:00pm - Doetzel Invitational Gymnastics Competition - North Peace Rec Centre - Fort St John

Sat, May. 151:00pm - Studio 2 Stage Spring Recital - North Peace Cultural Centre - Fort St. John

Sat, May. 156:00pm - 11:00pm - North Peace Historical Society’s “Jailhouse Rock” - Lido Theatre - Fort St. John

Sat, May. 157:00pm - Studio 2 Stage Spring Recital - North Peace Cultural Centre - Fort St. John

Sun, May. 162:00pm - Song Writers Circle - The Rabbit Hole - Fort St. John

Sun, May. 167:00pm - North Peace Community Choir Spring Concert - North Peace Cultural Centre - Fort St. John

Thu, May. 27 - Sat, May. 298:00pm - 11:00pm - Dorian Hare - JD Fitzgerald’s Pub - Fort St. John

Fri, May. 287:00pm - Comedy Detour at The Lido - Lido Theatre - Fort St. John

Fri, May. 287:00pm - The Wheat in the Barley - North Peace Cultural Centre - Fort St. John

Sat, May. 296:30pm - Simply Music Annual Recital - North Peace Cultural Centre - Fort St. John

Sat, May. 297:00pm - Comedy Detour at The Lido - Lido Theatre - Fort St. John

Sun, May. 306:30pm - Move Dance Centre Spring Recital - North Peace Cultural Centre - Fort St. John

LOOK OUT FORSat, June 19Party In the Park - Centennial Park - Fort St. John

Fri, Jun. 256:30pm - 10:00pm - The Offspring - EnCana Events Centre - - Dawson Creek

EVENTS


WRITTEN BY TOM REINBOLDT

SO WHERE DO YOU GO TO GET YOUR FIX OF ART AND CULTURE? VANCOUVER? TORONTO?

There is a small Northern community I know where the pick up truck reigns supreme and where many of the hard working locals get up early to make their way into the various fields where they labour to bring to market those raw materials that are used not only to build our homes, but heat them and feed the residents within. Nothing unusual there. Certainly not the makings of a great arts scene. But the story gets interesting when those same folks come home in the evening, change hats, and make their way to the various stages and venues around the community to provide the residents with that other form of sustenance known as art.

A reminder of just how good the local culture is came to me last Saturday. It began in the morning when my wife and I woke up early for a day trip to a neighboring community. Before leaving town we stopped at a WW&H for our Saturday morning ritual Americano and sunriser; and, while we were there my wife happened to be lucky enough to pick up a few pieces of jewelry from local artist Shannon Butler who had her work on display. Later that night, upon returning to town, we headed back to WW&H for the Earth hour B-Mac show before ending the evening watching both the “pros” and the great local talent put on an open mic at Egan’s.

All of this got me to pondering how is it that this Northern industry town of 18,000 has such a vibrant arts culture, and what makes this one special?

The answer to this, I believe, lies in the fact that many of the people involved in the local arts community have their feet firmly planted on both sides of the fence. It seems they instinctively understand that food without art leaves one as empty as art without food. That not only can the clay of the earth be toiled to feed the body, but shaped into the beauty that feeds the soul. The Buddha summed this relationship up by saying: “Before enlightenment, chop wood carry water. After enlightenment, chop wood carry water.”

This understanding alone would and should be enough for the community to give itself a pat on the back. But there is something more going on here, a thread that runs deeper than just the need for both necessity and expression. And that thread is what makes this “scene” special.

OUR LOCAL ARTS AND CULTURE

This is a place where a pipe liner can take the stage with a professional musician, where a yodeler can pack the dance floor, and where a space of non-judgement and mutual respect exists. Where a rap about hair panties can be followed by an old John Prine tune and the crowd cheers emphatically for both.

It seems that the local arts community also instinctively understands that true art isn’t about comparison, or a competition between egos, but that each of us is here to express in our own way. Whether that means a few moments of music, the best americano and cinnamon buns you will find anywhere, or a great mug with a crazy owl on it to enjoy that americano in, it’s all art, it’s all good, and we’re damned lucky to have so much of it right here in Fort St John.

Think Fashion. Think Scoop.

BY RIchaRD ZIENkIEWIcZ

ExEcuTIvE chEIf, upTOWN GRILL

Summer is around the corner, so throw on some shorts, sandals and sunglasses. Then put on some summer music, go outside and pre-heat the BBQ. This month we are going to Jamaica so don’t forget your sunscreen.

The weather is really starting to warm up and every time I look outside I find my thoughts wondering. Suddenly I hear the familiar sound of an order coming through the printer and the dinner rush has started. The orders keep coming at a steady pace and in just a few minutes we are cooking several orders at once. I am grilling chicken, salmon and a variety of steaks to order on a char broiler. At the same time I have to make sure that the team is working together so that all the food is timed right, the quality is consistent and the presentation is perfect. The guests are enjoying a cold drink and an appetizer in the air conditioned dining room while they wait for their main course. The night ends with a few desserts and a thorough sanitizing of the kitchen. The week has ended for me and I feel proud of the food my culinary team has produced for our guests. I only hope I will be rewarded with the weather I have dreamed of all week long. If I have my way you can be sure my BBQ will be hot and I will be

listening to some great summer music and enjoying a cold beverage.

The following recipe is for a Jamaican jerk sauce that we use for chicken at the Restaurant but is equally delicious on fish or beef. Enjoy with one of Melanie’s fresh Pineapple Mojitos for a match made in heaven.

JAMAICAN-ME-HUNGRY

FOOD

THE MUSIC Bob Marley- Legend

THE DRINk

Pineapple MojitoBruise 5 fresh mint leaves in a glassFill glass with iceAdd the juice of ½ fresh lime1 oz Pineapple flavoured rum *You can use regular white rum if you like just increase the pineapple juice slightly.Splash of pineapple juice

Fill glass with soda waterGarnish with sprig of mint and a lime wedge.

Mojitos not your thing? A cold red stripe beer would go well with this as well.

Cheers!

THE FOOD

Jamaican Jerk Chicken

3 green onions1 Tbsp minced garlic1 Tsp grated ginger2 Tbsp minced, fresh cilantro2 Tbsp red wine vinegar2 Tbsp white sugarPinch allspicePinch black pepper10 – 20 drops tobasco sauce1 or more Jalapeno peppers *I prefer a Habanaro pepper but only if you really like heat.1 Tbsp vegetable oil

Place all above ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth. Place your choice of chicken breasts, thighs or wings in a container and add enough jerk sauce to coat and marinade your chicken. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Place marinated chicken on a pre heated grill and cook until it’s done. Baste meat occasionally while cooking with remaining jerk sauce. Serve chicken topped with some soothing tropical fruit salsa.

Proud Supporter of

LOCAL ARTSin Our Communities

Fort St. John(250) 787-0361

Hudson’s Hope(250) 783-5217

Fort Nelson(250) 774-5215

FIND MORE RECIPES IN PREVIOUS ISSUES ONLINENorthern Groove Magazine is available online! If you missed any of the past issues, or want to pass the magazine along to friends or family... Click the “Read The Magazine” link at the top right corner of the northerngroove.com homepage. The webpage is updated with new articles daily about upcoming local events and local artists, so make sure to check those out too!www.northerngroove.com


Party in the Park is BACK, stampeding on the scene with a theme DANCE, June 19th (Father’s Day Weekend)! This year the stage will be set with possibly the largest outdoor barn dance Fort St. John has ever seen.

So what is Party in the Park (PITP) anyway? Seven years ago, Evangel Chapel began to catch a vision of doing something for the community, an event that would celebrate our belief that the arts are a gift from God as well as a part of who we are. In 2004, the first PITP to be held in Centennial Park saw literally thousands of people crash the party - a few air toys, a homemade stage, and free food and games. But more than the free stuff was the spirit of generosity and joy that literally permeated the place with the sound of laughter and fun.

It’s really a celebration of community and putting back into our community through a great multi-generational event. We’re bringing Disneyland to our own backyard (without the exorbitant price tag).

This year PITP is sure to once again be a highlight on the Fort St. John calendar. Most exciting will be some of the “first time” elements being incorporated for 2010, including an old western theme town, and the

barn dance. For the kids, there will be face-painting and balloon animals.

We’re also looking to partner with other businesses who wish to discover, alongside Evangel, the absolute joy of selfless giving!

More information about Party in the Park 2010 can be found at www.evangelfsj.com. If your curiosity is peaked regarding partnering with Evangel on this event, you can make enquiries by phone, (250) 785-3386, or email ([email protected]).

We hope to see you on the dance floor!

PARTY IN THE PARK - JUNE 19, 2010

MAY 2010 11

“The Visual Arts can empower individuals and communities. Theatre is a force that can unite, uplift, teach, build communities, inspire, and heal” - Artslynx International Resources www.artslynx.org The Fort St. John Association for Community Living’s purpose is to support adults with developmental disabilities to experience true inclusion; to be a valued part of their community.

The FSJ Players, a drama group supported by the FSJACL and led by Cynthia Livingstone has been performing for over 10 years. This community based drama group consists mostly of actors with developmental disabilities. They will be showing their new and improved presentation of ‘The Melancholy Minstrel’ written and directed by Cynthia Livingstone at Theatre BC’s Zone Festival on May 6 @ 7pm.

The decorations for the zone festival are created by individuals supported by the FSJACL under the leadership of artist Amy Gothard. We welcome everyone to come down and take in the Peace

River Zone Festival and check out the wonderful decorations, which proves that adults with developmental disabilities, like anyone else, have the ability to create real art.

The FSJACL has started a drumming group for all adults in FSJ to join, whether you are a drummer or

not, as drumming is an avenue where people can truly focus on their abilities and not their disabilities. Drumming has a large number of mental and physical health benefits but it also has the ability to unite people and create a true sense of community.

“The physical act of drumming . . releases stress and invigorates minds and bodies, while the process of getting into a GROOVE with others inspires us to work as a community and rewards

us for the effort with richer relationships” - www.communitydrumming.com

The FSJACL has been a part of Fort St. John for 50 years, and to commemorate this milestone, will be holding a celebration for all to attend on June 5, 2010 at the North Peace Cultural Centre.

ARTS AND MUSIC FOR BETTER LIVING


BY JakE huska

Ok, all you groovies of FSJ!!! Well for starters, the month of March was off the hook and April was even better!! Thank you to everyone who came out and made our events successful, we couldn’t have done it without you!

April 8th we had the party of parties! Jodie Peck (aka Miss Quincy), a very talented and groovy singer songwriter, chose Tim n’ Tyc’s as her last Canadian show before she headed out on her UK Tour. We’re very honoured to have a talent such as Miss Quincy groovin’ at our pad!! But nonetheless, the future’s lookin’ bright... and summertime is approachin’!! When the sun’s shinin’ and girls are smilin’, we feel

even more motivated to rock n’ roll. As a new venue in town, we plan on showcasing local and out of town talent, on a weekly basis... Along with that, we want to be having small-intimate art showings, and various other arts events weekly.

Our official grand opening will be held on Aug 1st, and we’ll be rockin’ with bands comin’ from coast to coast. Our new menu will be unveiled May 1st, so keep your eyes peeled. This summer’s gonna be a freedom-fest at Tim n’ Tyc’s,

Don’t miss out... Stay groovy!

SUMMERTIME AT TIM N’ TYC’SCULTU

RE

MAY 2010 13

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ARTS & CULTURE

BY suZaNNE aNDERsON

Summer is approaching. The smell of fresh grass being mowed, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin; excitement growing with anticipation for vacation! Every year when the snow melts the planning for adventure begins. What better way to spend your summer than exploring your own backyard? One of the greatest things about Fort St John is the amount of amazing events and activities to be apart of in the hot summer months.

Last year was my very first northern experience. Coming from a bigger city is was quite a change. I was in awe of what this city had to offer. My first taste of Fort St John summer events was the 2nd annual “Mud Bog”. Hundreds of families came down to watch massive trucks done up to the nines challenge each other through a thick runway of sludge. Make sure you’re prepared to get dirty… sometimes that mud is outta control!

My next adventure was one of my own creations. I had the privilege of coordinating the “Annual Canada Day Celebrations”. Organizations, businesses and volunteers came together to show the community what Fort St John was really made of. This was an event to see! From a 50 float parade to inflatable toys, games and entertainment in Centennial Park (last year was inside as it was raining but we still had a blast) to fireworks including open mic in the park with a variety of local artists showcasing their talents till well past my bed time. (Midnight I think).

This year I’m looking forward to checking out a new event each weekend. “Jam at the Dam” in Hudson’s Hope gives musical enthusiasts an opportunity to hear everything from Bluegrass to Gospel. “Family Fun in Sun” is taking on a new twist with a country dance, carnival and of course it wouldn’t be complete without movie in the park.

Something new I am looking forward to experiencing is “The Music that Moves You”. It involves getting on the local transit bus and rocking out to live music. It makes going green a lot more entertaining and

SUMMERTIME IN FORT ST. JOHN

COMMUNITY

SUzANNE ANDERSON OUTSIDE OF ENERPlEx ON A SUNNY FORT ST. JOHN DAY | PHOTO BY RUSSEll EGGlESTON

MAY 2010 15(STANDING l-R) ANDREA RYAN, VAlERIE SCHMIDT, (SEATED) CHANTEllE BOURGEAU

lets me brag a little about how fun transit can be. Oh, and while I’m exploring the town I plan on stopping off at one of our local parks to get involved with “Play in the Park”. Three times a week a facilitator will be in one of our local parks playing games, crafts and sports for the whole family to enjoy.

Speaking of family events “Be a Tourist in Your Own Town Week” has something new everyday including the amazing race. As a volunteer last year I witnessed crazed families competing all over town using clues to find each new station. I’m accepting

the challenge this year, any takers?

The essence of family fun is “The North Peace Fall Fair”. From livestock grooming competitions to watermelon eating contests there is something for everyone. This summer is going to be packed with things to do in the Peace Country so stick around and enjoy the fun.

For more information on events happening in your community this summer checkout www.northerngroove.com or www.fortstjohn.ca/events.


BY Jp squaRED

Jodie Ponto, Northern Groove’s own Countess of Content and Photographer Extraordinaire, has taken a hiatus from these duties for the next few months to embark on a journey with a talented Peace Region musician who coincidentally shares her first name and last initials - Jody Peck (better known onstage as Miss Quincy). You can keep up with their adventures by checking out Jodie’s website (and corresponding photoblog) or Miss Quincy’s website: www.jodieponto.com and www.missquincy.net.

Last month Miss Ponto sat down and talked to Miss Peck about her endeavours and adventures (see April’s edition of Northern Groove) and this month the tables have turned.

PECK: OK Jodie P, let’s turn this around. I’m going to ask you a few questions as I’ve heard you also have a some exciting events coming up. First of all, as a photographer it seems you have a passion for catching live musicians in action. Tell me what is it that inspires you about photographing live music?

PONTO: Well ... I wouldn’t say

it’s inspiration so much as it is free beer and backstage passes. All kidding aside, I love stealing souls with my camera. Good musicians make it easy for me to steal souls because they just lay them right out there on the stage for the taking. What I mean by that is when you photograph a person in a candid moment and more importantly when they’re putting their whole selves into something, you can end up with these dynamite images that capture a raw piece of them. It’s a serious high to capture someone in a particularly intense and fleeting moment. And when it really comes down to it, concerts, festivals, jams, etc. are some of my favorite things in the galaxy ... Since I’m better with a camera than an instrument, taking photos of the music makin’ is my way of participating.

PECK: I hear you will be taking your camera out on the open road this spring and summer. What are your plans?

PONTO: You heard correctly - I’m going to be climbing on-board the CME Artist Services’ UK Spring Tour happening in May as official tour photographer. Now not only will we share a name, but tea and crumpets on the tour bus as well! After the UK tour my plan is to join Miss Quincy’s

ON THE ROAD WITH JODY PECK AND JODIE PONTO

ART

MISS QUINCY (AkA: JODY PECk) OUTSIDE THE CABIN SHE RECORDED HER NEw AlBUM IN THIS

wINTER. PHOTO BY JODIE PONTO

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MAY 2010 17

own cross-country caravan for a summer of photo and music adventures.

PECK: Where are we going to be able to see your photos and follow your adventures? And, how does one showcase their art on the road?

PONTO: You can see my photos on my website - www.jodieponto.com - and follow my adventures in the photoblog section of the website - www.jodieponto.com/photoblog. The website showcases my portfolios and whatnot, while the photoblog provides a platform for photo fun and to show folks what my camera is up to on a regular basis. I’ve become a bit of a photoblog-oholic, so anyone with access to the interweb should have no problem compulsively checking what I’m up to on the road. Folks can also join the Jodie Ponto Photography Facebook fan page to receive updates, including everytime I update the ol’ photoblog. All this website and Facebook talk is really the answer to the second part of your question - the internet is not only the best place to showcase art on the road, but has really made it possible to do so.

PECK: Do you see yourself focusing your artistic career on music photography or do you have plans for working with other genres or mediums?

PONTO: At this point I’m just going to roll with my camera and see where it takes me. I stumbled into

music photography purely by Northern Groove accident about a year ago and now find myself photographing tours, so I’m excited to see what will unfold in the next few years. What readers of the magazine might not know though is that I photograph much more than just musicians. I’ve done extensive photography of the Peace Region landscape, photography for non-music related events, travel photography, commercial work for websites , and my greatest photo heart-on is for black & white photography .... especially creating my own black & white prints in the darkroom using old 35mm film cameras.

PECK: Do you have any advice or inspiring words for anyone who wishes to make a career out of photography?

PONTO: Well, you’ll never take a good photograph if you never take photographs, so just get out a camera (any old camera will do), treat it like your Siamese twin, and take about four thousand truckloads of photos of anything that tickles your fancy! A lot of people I’ve talked to who are interested in photography are daunted because they don’t have a brand new, expensive piece of equipment. But when it comes down to it, photography is not about fancy & expensive pieces of equipment. Photography is about what is behind the camera - the photographer, that is. A fancy camera doesn’t make a great picture any more than a fancy guitar writes a great song.


Songwriter Jerome says, “I try to write catchy music and then sing whatever’s on my mind.

“I have almost no entertainment in my house, and I have so much fun when I play so I practice personally about 2 hours daily give or take on how busy I am.

“I write about a lot of stuff...girls, views on life, friends, I’m writing a song about how much I hate winter. Just whatever’s on my mind, and, yeah, I would love to tweak our sound a bit so it’s more metal because I’m influenced by a great deal of artists on both sides of the ‘rock spectrum’, but I also love our sound now.”

After Jerome comes up with the lyrics and the rhythm guitar, the band sits down together to work out the finished song.

“Well, I don’t know much about the lyrics actually,” says Jeremy, “but I write a lot on guitar that we don’t put in our music, I think all of us have stuff that doesn’t fit with what we do collectively. Its hard to describe writing stuff on guitar but I play what I feel, if I get it right.”

One hurdle young bands face is that there aren’t a lot of places for them to play in town. The Lido’s Strawberry Jams are great because they are all-age shows.

“There’s not very many places to play, but we’re going to possibly open for bands that come through here if they need an opening band,” said Alex. “And being new isn’t bad or good, since we’re in school it’s easier to

BY hENRY sEE

The banner of rock n roll is flying high in Fort St John. April’s Strawberry Jam at the Lido saw it taken up by Sunset Sympathy, a band composed of four grade ten students: Alex Nickel on bass, Connor Brooks on drums, Jeremy Ranger, lead guitar, and Jerome Lyons, lead singer and rhythm guitar. The hard-working group ensured a strong turnout by plastering the city with posters and filling the Lido with their fans.

The core of the group have been playing together since 2008, but it was about a year ago that the group took its current form with the addition of Jeremy, who said, “They asked me to join like a year ago, but they were doing other stuff before that. We really only started to get serious six or seven months ago.”

“Yeah,” said Connor, “we recruited Jeremy a year ago, but we started this whole idea back in 2008.”

Sunset Sympathy meets on Friday nights to practice, although each of the members practice and write songs on their own. “We usually practice Friday nights,” says Alex, “and we stop at 11 so they can’t call the cops on us.”

So they have a sense of humour!

Connor describes their music as “fast-paced, almost punk-ish, but more melodic”.

ARTS AND CULTURE

ROCK N ROLL WILL NEVER DIE: AN INTERVIEW WITH SUNSET SYMPATHY

MUSIC

JEROME lYONS

JEREMY RANGER

CONNOR BROOkS

MAY 2010 19

garner a fan base and get your name out because people talk. Right now we’re more focusing on getting solid.”

Jeremy continues, “I think it’s tough to get started, especially in a small town. We do have the advantage of having Connor’s dad [Deere John’s Craig Brooks] help us, he has experience and knows

lots of people. There is one good thing about not living in a big city - there’s hardly any competition, so when we play people hear about it.

“One thing I hear a lot is that people think we are way better than they were expecting.”

“Hahaha,” continues Connor. “Yeah, well people don’t expect to take us seriously because we’re just a bunch of kids to them, but I’m happy when we blow them away.”AlEx NICkEl

MAP OF FORT ST. JOHN PRESENTED BY

NORTHERN GROOVEMAP OF FORT ST. JOHN PRESENTED BY


NORTHERN GROOVENORTHERN GROOVEMAP OF FORT ST. JOHN PRESENTED BY



NORTHERN GROOVENORTHERN GROOVENORTHERN GROOVEMAP OF FORT ST. JOHN PRESENTED BY


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CULTURE

DEB BUTLER - SECOND WIND

hENRY sEE

An afternoon with Deb Butler is a passionate exploration of writing, music, agriculture, and the history of the Alaska Highway, with stops at photography, BSE, horses, family, and the importance of taking risks along the way. We recently sat down for an animated and wide-ranging conversation at Whole Wheat & Honey.

Originally from Victoria, Deb and her husband Mike arrived in the Peace in 1973, inspired by the back-to-the-land sentiment of the time. They bought some land in Rose Prairie and started to farm. By the mid-eighties, farm and family in tow, Deb started to write. As she puts it, “On the farm there is an opportunity to dream” while doing menial tasks like weeding and milking. The dreams began to take shape as stories, and Deb had her first short story published in 1986.

She made the decision that everything she published she should be paid for, which led to writing articles for agricultural magazines, giving her the opportunity to combine writing with the knowledge she had acquired from farming.

A few years later, the fiftieth anniversary of the building of the Alaska Highway was approaching. She began to do research into the subject, interviewing people who had been involved with the construction, including Duncan Beatton and an eighty year old tracker whose interview was put on hold while he was called out to track a grizzly that was threatening the community. Beatton’s stories, many of which were connected to the Hudson’s Bay trading post still operating at the time of the construction of the Alaska Highway, gave her the idea of setting a play in the trading post. It was a convenient way to create a space for the interaction of a diverse array of characters, all based on real people.

“One day my husband Mike had to deliver a

MAY 2010 23

DEB BUTLER - SECOND WIND Getting to express yourself from your heart is so satisfying and rewarding, my secret is: seize any opportunity. Our long winters up here keep us inside more which we can be frustrated by, or [we can] utilize the time to develop more creatively.

Did you have any projects this past winter? What are you working on now?

I finished up a couple of photo shoots I did for New Holland magazine featuring local ranches in the fall, and continued to work on my song writing through the winter. Tom Cole has recorded one of my songs and I’m hoping to see that released sometime soon. Right now I’m trying to catch up on our book-keeping, ugh.

You mentioned, almost as a throw-away line, that you wrote a novel. Can you tell us something about that?

Farming teaches a person to be very practical and to accept failures as a normal part of life. The publisher told me my story was so depressing no one would want

to read my book. The crazy part of that is it was a comedy! I still consider it loosely as “a work in progress”.

I agree that when you take risks, you’re going to fail sometimes. But failures are the source of growth. Given this issue of Northern Groove is the Summer Special, do you have any thoughts on summer in the Peace?

The transformation from winter to summer is so quick and the change is really incredible here in the north. It’s a wonderful time of rejuvenation and it happens so quickly before our very eyes. I have an enormous vegetable garden and tons of flowers, and we’re very busy with crops and haying etc. But I really feel fortunate to be able to

grow our own food and often to be serving vegetables to my family within an hour of picking it. Our summers are glorious here and I think we enjoy them more because they are short and intense. Watching our cattle graze on the green rolling hills of Rose Prairie is really a sight to behold.

During our talk, Deb mentioned to me she was able to get up and sing and play guitar in front of an audience because she felt that even if she was bad, she might make someone else look good. It is this generous attitude that one is left with after meeting Deb Butler.

Come join us at Retro Relics on Tuesday, May 18, at 7pm for our monthly Spread the Word Open Mike for Poets and Writers.

Our monthly Songwriter’s Circle is Sunday, May 16, at 2pm.

tractor up the Alaska Highway. I hadn’t been up that part in awhile. It was January, and it was a blizzard. I thought to myself, ‘You have to be crazy to live up here now, much less fifty years ago!’” Hence the title, The Alcan Craze of ’42.

“The American soldiers who came up to build the highway were fighting a different kind of war. They arrived in their southern clothes and boots. They marched into Fort St. John. They weren’t prepared. They lost their youth.”

The stories Deb gathered from those who had participated made their way into the play, the first one produced at the new North Peace Cultural Centre.

She also worked for The Northerner during this period, and she remembers going out to do her stories carrying her purse, a camera, diaper bag, and a baby. Producing an agricultural newsletter led to a video project called “Wide Skies and Fertile Fields, agriculture of the BC Peace”. She said, “This project was tremendously satisfying to me because I was able to demonstrate the beauty of agriculture in our area, and to show people that are getting so removed from farming and ranching, what it really looks like in our region.” That was all on her first wind.

Then cancer struck. She fought it and has now been cancer-free for over five years. Not everyone in the support group she attended was so lucky. Some have died; some are still sick. Passing through a crisis like cancer and coming out the other side changes one’s perspective on life. In Deb’s case, it gave her a second wind.

You said you got a second wind after overcoming cancer. Can you tell us a bit about that?

Being medicated can save your life, but you don’t feel like yourself. When I started to feel normal again it was almost too good to be true - and I was overwhelmed with an appreciation for my life.

It is apparent from many things you have said that you are willing to take risks. Was this ability something you always had, or did it come with experience?

As you know, when you write you stick your neck out all the time and often people will disagree with your point of view. When I decide to stick my neck out, I always consider what’s the worst result that could happen. If I think I can live with the consequences, I go ahead. I’ve never been a worrier.

From our discussions, you seem to bring your creative spirit into play in everything you do. Were you always this way? What’s your secret?

This Buzz

Is this buzz from the coffee I’ve been drinkingIs it the moon, cause it’s full, or the wind

Is it the peppers in this salsa I’ve been eatingThis wonderful energy, where has it been

Oh oh, where has it beenI’ve been down I’ve been troubled for so long

I forgot what it’s like to feel goodThis second wind, it comes on like a storm

I never saw it coming, I never knew it couldOh oh, I never knew it could

You came into my life like a heat waveI was so lonesome with a low metabolism

I never dreamt it was me that you were gonna saveOh baby you’re my captain and you sailed my ship in

Oh oh, you sailed my ship inIs this buzz from the coffee I’ve been drinking

Is it the moon, when it’s full or the windIs it the peppers in the salsa I’ve been eating

This wonderful energy, where has it beenOh oh, where has it been, ooooh where has it been

Oh oh, where has it been.

Written by Deborah Butler, May 26, 2007


The Welcoming & Inclusive Communities & Workplaces Program (WICWP) is a special collaborative community initiative aimed at supporting and celebrating cultural diversity through community events, workshops, articles and special initiative. This program is made possible through funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia. For more information about the WICWP in Fort St John please contact Leslie at 250.785.5323.

CULTURE

lISETT GODOY AT HER lATINO AEROBICS ClASS

BY paOLa BaNks

Mexican cooking instructor Susie Furman is originally from Mazatlan, Mexico and moved to Fort St John about 8 years ago. She has always had a flair for cooking and enjoys having people over for dinner. This love of cooking inspired her to start teaching Mexican cuisine at the North Peace Cultural Center. The classes have been going on for about a year and a half with great success. . Thanks to her enthusiastic students and their requests for more classes and variety in cuisine, Susie organized her first big event held at City Hall in Taylor, BC. Almost 200 guests attended the event to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day.

Susie is currently organizing her second event in which Mexican’s celebrate ‘Cinco de Mayo’ (Spanish for ‘Fifth of May’). This holiday commemorates the Mexican army’s unlikely victory over the French army at the Battle of Puebla on May 5th. (It is important to note that Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day, which is September 16th.)

‘The reason for me to do this in Canada is to share with the community a little of our Mexican culture and celebrate part of the history by having a delicious dinner with authentic Mexican cuisine and entertainment’. says

Susie.

There will be a variety of food (not to be confused with Tex-Mex cuisine, which is often referred to as “Mexican food” in the U.S.) including corn tortillas, guacamole, beans with fresh cheese, chiles poblanos, a cold dessert typical in Mexico and perfect to enjoy in spring, called Margarita Lime Pay.

If you haven’t experienced traditional Mexican food before, we invite you all to enjoy this celebration by

attending the Cinco de Mayo event at Whole Wheat ‘n Honey on May 5th at 6:30 pm. You will enjoy a Mexican dinner with colourful decorations, varied flavours, performances and traditional Mexican music.

This event is a fundraiser for the ArtSpace at the North Peace Cultural Center where Susie teaches her Mexican cooking classes. Proceeds will go towards improving the equipment so she can continue to offer her cooking classes.

Tickets available at the North Peace Cultural Centre Box Office 10015 - 100th Street, by phone (250) 785-1992, or online www.npcc.bc.ca

CINCO DE MAYO FUNDRAISER MEXICAN DINNER


SONGWRITER’S CIRCLESunday, May 16, 2pm.

POET & WRITER OPEN MIKETuesday, May 18, 7pm.

IN THE PEACE

YOUR ALTERNATIVE

FREE!

FREE!

RETRO RELICS/RABBIT HOLEDETOX¥ALT CULTURE¥PIPES¥BOOKS

POSTERS ¥ T-SHIRTS ¥ SPIRITUALITY ¥ VINYL

MAY 2010 27

DANIEL WESLEY @ ON THE ROCKS, MARCH 24, 2010 | Daniel Wesley playing to a sold out show at On The Rocks Nightclub. For upcoming events checkout www.northerngroove.com

PHOTOS

RYAN SEBASTIANO @ ON THE ROCKS, MARCH 24, 2010 | Ryan Sebastiano performing with full band in a room filled with 300 people, opening for Daniel Wesley... Mitch Guindon, Bottom Left. Tony Frattura, Bottom Right

28 WWW.NORTHERNGROOVE.COMARTS COUNCIL TOGA PARTY FUN-RAISER @ ON THE ROCKS PUB, APRIL 10, 2010 | The FSJ Community Arts Council held it’s first ever toga party as a fundraiser for the ArtsPost Building. Photos by Russell Eggleston

PHOTOS

THE MOVE DANCE CENTRE @ FORT ST JOHN COMMUNITY AWARDS, APRIL APRIL 15, 2010 | City of Fort St. John Awards Banquet featured a dance presentation by the Move Dance Centre. Photos by Russell Eggleston

PHOTOS

MAY 2010 29


The Lillith Fair tour never made it this far north, but with the talent in this Peace region, they sure could have. Ten of those fabulous female talents are gathering May 8th for a one-time show that will inspire you!

WomanSong is a collaboration of a group of women from Fort St John and Grande Prairie. This third annual event, for the first time in FSJ, was started by Susan Picard, co-founder of the headlining act, the DandyLionesses. She had a

WOMANSONG: FORT ST. JOHN’S OWN LILLITH FAIR

vision to provide a venue to showcase and encourage the careers of local female talent. This year the show includes FSJ artists Lindsay Pratt, Naomi Shore, Emily Goodman, and Shannon Ingersoll and Grande Prairie artists Renee Golenba, Jo Anne Wells and headliners the DandyLionesses. Many of you music-show groupies know Lindsay and Emily and their superb talent well. They will be joined by Naomi, who is fairly new to the music scene,

MUSIC

MAY 2010 31

“The creative industries play a major role in building andsustaining economically vibrant communities, serve as magnets

to attract businesses and their employees, and are the mainreason for stimulating a marked increase in cultural tourism.”

U.S. Conference of Mayors

“Art enables us to find ourselvesand lose ourselves at the same time.”

Thomas Merton (1915-1968)

The FSJ Community Arts Council is working towards a better through the development of arts and culture.community

10320-94 [email protected]

[email protected]

but who has an abundance of talent to offer with lovely melody and light fingers. Shannon Ingersoll is a new member of the FSJ community, but her years of performance and experiences put into song are something not to miss.

Renee has been performing in and around GP for several years and has a wonderful unique style - beautiful sound and expressive stories to tell. Jo Anne is a long-time artist, and her experience shows in her ability to hush a crowd. The headlining act, the DandyLionesses, are a group of four women, Susan Picard, Wendy Coogan, Christine Ayling

and Angie Maksymetz, all mothers and community activists. They share their views of the world with incredible harmony and clarity.

A portion of the show’s proceeds will be donated to the FSJ Women’s Resource Society. Come and join us, it is sure to be a sellout! The show is Saturday, May 8th, doors at 7 pm, show at 8 pm. You can purchase your tickets at Systems, the Rabbit Hole, Visitors Centre and the Women’s Resource Society. General Admission is $15, reserved seats $20 and $25 at the door, so get your tickets fast!

Uttita Trikonasana (oo-TEE-tah trik-cone-AHS-anna) - Extended Triangle Pose

Benefits:

Strengthens knees, hips, ankles, obliques and quadriceps

Stretches hips, groins, hamstrings and calves

Lifts foot arches

Stimulates abdominal organ function and digestion

M o n d a y s7 - 9 p m

S a c r e d S p a c e10671 101st AveFor more info:

250-787-9433

eeYOGAthenderUr

Relieves stress, anxiety, symptoms of menopause and backache from pregnancy

Counter Indicators for Existing Conditions:

Heart Conditions practice against a wall, keep top hand on hip

High Blood Pressure bring gaze to the lead foot rather than too the ceiling

Neck Problems gaze to the lead foot, evenly lengthen both sides of the neck

The benefits of practicing yoga are limitless for everyone at every level. By developing your practice you will feel your body strengthen and detoxify, your balance will improve, your mind will clear and your stress will melt away. Taking time for yourself today will be your gift to yourself tomorrow.

Find out more information!

Public drop-in classes for all ages @ Whole Wheat & Honey M/W 5:30pm – 6:50pm, T/TH 7:00pm-8: 20pm.

6 Week program April 26th to June 2nd, M/W 6:00am – 7:00am at Iron Rhino Fitness

Corporate and Private sessions available, follow us on facebook for schedule updates’

CULTURE

eeYOGAthenderUr

what’s coming up?Municipal Government Day & Arbour Day (May 19)Grand Re-opening of the North Peace Leisure Pool (June 6) Be a Tourist in Your Own Town ( June 5-12)Canada Day Celebrations (July 1)Family Fun in the Sun (TBD, August)

Call the Visitor Centre at 250 785 3033 or visit www.fortstjohn.ca for details about exciting events happening in your community this spring/summer season.

SPRING/SUMMER 2010


(Isabelle Paynter), Ace the Face (Michael Fraser), Sweeper (Pete Fehr), Todd the Odd (Kelly Wiebe) and Sir Frick (Christine Eicher) and Sir Frack (Tina Tompkins), Lady Pinchpenny (Linda Smith), Sir Francois (Dustin Hattin) and Moose (Michael Kloc). Each player has injected their own personal abilities in portraying his or her character. With the help of imaginative and creative props, the story comes alive on stage.

The play The Melancholy Minstrel is about inspiration and compassion. The process is about confidence building and inclusion. The performance is about fun and frivolity. The Melancholy Minstrel plays Wednesday, May 5, at the Peace River Zone Theatre Festival at the North Peace Cultural Centre.

Sue Popesku 250-785-6214 [email protected]

A MESSAGE FROM PLAYWRIGHT CYNTHIA LIVINGSTONE

The Fort St John Players is a troupe of actors who have developmental disabilities and a great love of performing. Since 2000 our mission has been to provide self-advocates and like-minded individuals with opportunities for self-expression through theatre. We promote the principles of inclusion wherever we perform and serve as a resource for schools, community theatre and community living organizations. We create original comedies that incorporate acting, dancing, mime, magic and extraordinary costume design. The Melancholy Minstrel is the third installment in the ‘Melancholy’ trilogy, following on the heels of The Melancholy King and The Melancholy Wizard.

THE MELANCHOLY MINSTREL: A SPECIAL PLAY WITH SPECIAL ACTORS

The players in The Melancholy Minstrel like to be naughty and like to make people laugh. They react naturally to live music and sound effects and constantly work on body language as actors on stage. They are a cast of special needs adults from the Community Living Association in Fort St. John.

Playwright Cynthia Livingstone develops the play as she works with the cast. The Melancholy Minstrel is the third in the Melancholy Trilogy. It premiered at the Peace River Zone Theatre Festival last year and received the Best Ensemble award. “We are bringing back a radically revamped version with seven new players in the cast this year,” said Cynthia. A few of the characters, such as the “new” King (Harold Goodwin) and Lady Tappets (Cory Goodwin) are volunteers at the Association.

Cynthia’s cast learns best through routine, repetition and predictability. She feels, “the purpose in theatre for special needs actors is to provide a good learning experience for the players along with entertaining an audience. “ The players perform naturally and often play with their own unique styles of communications and disabilities. Cynthia used the example of the Hunchback (Kevin Smith) who is ostracized by some due to his character disability but appreciated by others for his wisdom. He saves the day when he exclaims that “Chicks like Flowers” to the Minstrel Pete Boggs (Russell Wheat) who has been trying to win the love of Molly the Fishmonger (Megan Doershen).

In writing the script Cynthia said, “This is an experiment, a sort of tip of the hat to Shakespeare, with word plays and double entendres.” Rhyme is a key to remembering the lines. Memorization is increased and concepts flow easier for the actors. Puns and ditties run through the play evoking comparisons to the Great Bard’s immortal words and characters.

The play has the familiar Shakespeare-like setting of a castle, market place and pub. The audience meets colourful character: Dizzy Lizzie (Bev McLaughlin), Flirty Gertie (Dawn Barber), Bossy Flossie (Sharon Dineley), Lady Vanity (Delorus Cooper), Apple Betty,

THEATRE

MAY 4 - I, CLAUDIABY KRISTEN THOMSON | DIRECTED BY OLIVER HACHMEISTER | PRODUCED BY STAGE NORTH OF FORT ST. JOHN

MAY 5 - SEX, DRUGS, ROCK AND ROLLBY ERIC BOGOSIAN | DIRECTED BY TOM KIRSCHNER | PRODUCED BY BRIDGE TO BROADWAY OF FORT ST. JOHN

MAY 6 - THE MELANCHOLY MINSTRELBY CYNTHIA LIVINGSTONE | DIRECTED BY CYNTHIA LIVINGSTONE | PRODUCED BY FORT ST. JOHN PLAYERS

MAY 7 - TORONTO MISSISSIPPIBY JOAN MACLEOD | DIRECTED TERRY BOYLE | PRODUCED BY STAGE NORTH OF FORT ST. JOHN

MAY 8 - 1PM MATINEE - SYLVIABY A.R. GURNEY | DIRECTED BY DARCY FROST | PRODUCED BY DIONYSUS THEATRE OF DAWSON CREEK

MAY 8 - 8PM - NOVEMBERBY DON NIGRO | DIRECTED BY ERIN HANNA | PRODUCED BY GRIZZLY VALLEY PLAYERS OF TUMBLER RIDGE

All shows at the North Peace Cultural Centre in Fort St. John. Weekday evening curtain at 7:30pm, Saturday matinee at 1pm and Saturday evening at 8pm.

For further information: Contact Festival Chairman Jim Peltier 250-787-0342 [email protected] or Sue Popesku Treasurer 250-785-6214 [email protected]

PEACE RIVER ZONE THEATRE FESTIVAL SCHEDULE: MAY 4TH - 9TH

The 2010 Peace River North Theatre Festival May 4-9, 2010, has an exciting line-up of plays from communities throughout the Peace Region. Adjudicator Andrew McElroy will be selecting one of

the plays to represent the Peace Country at Theatre BC’s Mainstage in Kamloops. Tickets are available at the North Peace Cultural Centre for $10 each evening and festival passes are available.


MUSICPHOTOS

INTERVIEW WITH LOCAL NEWBORN

AND BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHER

ALLISON WENGER PECK

MAY 2010 37

BY paOLa BaNks

From newborns to boudoir, Allison will take a simple photo and transform it into a masterpiece.

Where are you from?

I was born in Prince Rupert, BC. As a child I lived in Smithers, BC and moved as a young teenager to Penticton - I consider myself from the Okanagan because I spent my school years there.

What brought you to Fort St John?

My husband. He is from Hudson’s Hope but resides in Fort St John.

How did you meet him? I was working at the Credit Union where he was a member. We were married about 10 months after our first date!

For how long have you been married?

12 years and we have four children. We have a 10 year old boy, Josh, who is special needs. Josh was born with an extremely rare genetic syndrome requiring 37 surgeries; hence we had our hands full for the first couple of years. We also have an 8 year old daughter Kaelin, a 5 year old son named Jakob and a 1 month old baby boy, Callum.

Will you consider having another child?

Absolutely, however I’ll have to convince my husband of that!

How do you balance being a fulltime mother of four and a photographer?

That can be quite challenging; I try to take one or two appointments a day to manage it. It’s not the actual session that takes the time - it’s the editing. A photography session will take about an hour but afterwards it takes about 3 hours to edit that one session. I schedule the appointments when the kids are in school and I’ll take the baby into the studio with me and edit in the evening after the kids are in bed.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Everywhere!

Which photo shoot has been the most fun and coolest to do?

The coolest are the boudoir sessions. Many women are insecure, or there are parts of their body that they don’t like, so they are nervous about doing certain poses or even doing the whole session! But by the time the session is over and they leave the studio they are laughing and say that it wasn’t intimidating and they feel great about themselves. When they get their pictures back they are just thrilled. The shoots that I enjoy the most are the pregnancy sessions.

Have you taken pictures of your own children?

I have and I prefer not to, haha - I don’t have the patience with my own kids because I know what they are capable of. I don’t bat an eyelash with other families if their children are running around because it’s part of my job. But when my kids are rolling their

eyes or picking their nose, I don’t have the patience to take their photo.

What qualities make your work unique?

Probably my patience with babies and my editing technique. I think you can take the same photograph and have two different editors work with it and the picture will end up looking completely different, given the editing styles of each photographer.

How long have you been taking photos?

In Fort St John, for almost 4 years.

What do you enjoy the most about taking photos?

The pleasure that my clients experience when they receive their photos. Also of course the newborn photos, some of the parents cry happy tears when they view their baby’s photos.

One of the best experiences is to follow a family as they grow. For some clients I’ve had the privilege of documenting their wedding, pregnancy, newborn photos and then before you know it they are coming for their second pregnancy! It’s extremely special for me to be labelled as ‘their photographer’- it makes me feel very unique.

How did you realize photography was your ‘thing’?

I don’t know if it was a so much a passion in the beginning. I had a friend who was pregnant and she asked me to take her pictures and after I realized that I enjoyed it - and of course that lead to babies, which lead to families and weddings. I do have an artistic side when it comes to editing, which I was very proficient at and the passion developed after. I really enjoy meeting people and their families. As a mom of four I don’t get out often, so this enables me to meet people that I probably would never otherwise have the opportunity to know.

BABIES AND BELLY’S: INTERVIEW WITH VIVA SWANSON

Babies and belly’s are Viva’s thing. Viva Swanson is the Clinical Lead for Acute Care Project Planning and Transition for the Fort St John Hospital and Residential Care Project. The amazing thing about the community of Fort St. John is that you can get to know everyone.

As a maternity nurse, Viva has created lifelong relationships

and those relationships are the foundation for what the new hospital project is all about. Moving to Fort St. John in 1994 after a blind date gone wrong, she has worked as a nurse, maternity nurse and nurse manager for the past 16 years. Her passion is to get involved with anything that is new and exciting and the current project is exactly that.

“The ownership of the project comes from the roots.” Roots are what a town is built on and those same roots are the foundation for the Fort St. John Hospital project. Imagine yourself on a stretcher, being wheeled through the hospital. How does it feel to be the patient on that stretcher? What is the process of care to look after our patients? Or how many steps could a nurse waste in a given day supporting their patient? How can patients receive not only better care, but more efficient care? These are just a few of the questions that the Clinical Teams have studied in creating and developing the design for the

new hospital and residential care facilities.

Viva likes to call herself ‘the translator’. She talks to the clinical side and translates their needs to design/architectural side of the project, and vice versa. Some call this ‘clinical speak.‘ A nurse who has delivered babies for years is an integral part of not only the clinical design but the actual physical design as well. As she says “I’m designing a maternity ward not only for my grandchildren but for their grandchildren. This is the kind of thought that goes into every aspect of design for the project.”

“The creative solutions come from within. We know the work we do better than anyone. We know Fort St. John; those of us that live and breathe here, better than anybody.” This is our community. This is our hospital. This is our residential care facility. This is the home that our grandparents are going to live in. Where our parents are going to live, and someday where we might live.”

BY DavE TOLLEY

The Fort St. John Hospital and Residential Care project is set to be complete in 2012. The new FSJ Hospital and Residential Care Facility will include a 55-bed acute and ambulatory care hospital and a 123-bed residential care facility for seniors. The project

will be delivered via a Public Private Partnership with ISL and the facilities will be constructed on a new 40-acre site, with land donated by the City of Fort St. John. Site size allows for future expansion of healthcare facilities.

COMMUNITY

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Northern Groove - May 2010

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