Publishing Tips

During the month of October, Newfoundcare will bring you the latest news on how to publish your material with affordable and quality actions to take. Whether you are a self publisher or have an agent, learning from experienced publishers and promoters, gives you knowledge and the tools you need to be a successful writer.


Prior to the Christmas season when most publishers like to launch their products, the work has to be assessed, edited, selected, and ready for sale. Most writers as you know, strive to receive income while they work, the work itself is a huge investment that either brings education, important knowledge or entertainment, depending upon your writing style. For instance, are you writing articles or books? Your writing will reflect the audience you are trying to obtain.


Each week during October valuable tips will be provided for successful publishing.


TIP #1 Networking


Networking requires skillful patience.  First, assess who you are going to network with and of course, this would reflect the audience your work has been created for.  Here’s an example of a networking response.  Keep in mind your time is valuable.  You will learn quickly if there is ‘real’ interest in your work when you contact individuals. 


Let’s suppose you have been exchanging times to meet with a potential audience interested in your work.  Let's suppose it has taken more than three times corresponding with an individual to schedule a meeting.  And there is still no resolve.  What do you do?  


Let it go, they are obviously not interested, and your work is too valuable to be wasting your precious time.  It's important to build up a strong network of audiences that will invest in you, your creative work with genuine support.  If it is not there, do not question as to why they don’t respond or delay a meeting. Its obvious they don’t’ care.  To build a healthy business your network will reflect those who mirror your values – not criticize them or waste your precious time.


Next weeks’ tip will be to show you how to build your audiences. External link opens in new tab or windowinfo@newfoundcare.ca

 


The magic of 3! Trail Mix, Cool Beans and Coconut Milk!   

The surprising taste I call, Breakfast Bean Delight!


One morning, I thought of combining these ingredients.  Using up what had been purchased during the month of September, instead of wastage, it has become my new favourite! 

Topped with cinnamon, this hot and cold breakfast will be added to my variety of morning food ideas. A combination of a hot and cold breakfast is substantial and can provide extra energy for those more active days you plan.  Be sure you have a hungry appetite before eating all of this!  The total cost of such a delight - less than $20. Here's how to prepare it for yourself:

Bag of frozen perogies, $4
Can of coconut milk $2.50
Can of maple syrup beans $2.00
Bacon $5.00
Trail Mix $2.50   

Boil perogies for a few minutes until soften enough to fry
While boiling prepare your bacon - cook slowly for nice flat pieces for dicing. 
Once bacon has cooled, drain fat and place aside. 
Add your par-boiled perogies to the frying pan of your bacon drippings.  Fry until golden brown on each side.
Bacon slices cooled are easy to dice into bits. Sprinkle over your cooked perogies.

Trail Mix Surprise
In a small bowl pour a little trail mix or granola
Smother the next layer with cool maple syrup beans
Add a dollop of coconut milk and sprinkle with a touch of cinnamon. 
Garnish with gooseberries for a more tarty taste. You'll be sure to enjoy your newfound breakfast bean delight!
 







Truth and Reconciliation Day September 30, 2024

A day of reflection on the heritage of the Indigenous peoples in Canada and a time to honor their stories and traditions.

My own story

My mother was always apprehensive to discuss our indigenous heritage.  Her mother died in the 1930's here in NL when she was 5.  Raised by her step mother - non indigenous and her father, a business man and a well respected individual in the community, she grew up aware of the fear upon those with indigenous roots.  The attacks upon us can be felt and as many with indigenous roots know, the level of racism still exist hence the awareness campaigns throughout the country today to educate others and bring peace, respect and equality.


Over the years I spent time alone exploring my own heart and embracing my intuition to be close to the earth and its gifts.  My father was a big help in this as I spent much time with him as a young girl when he was a fish monger visiting various towns, meeting his friends and learning more about my own culture here in NL. 


It wasn't until I was in my late twenties that my mother was once again approached with the subject.  "Tell me more about what you recall with your real mother", was the conversation that gave her much grief.  I empathized with her as she was scared to discuss her own heritage.  Growing up in the second world war certainly didn't add any restitude to the ordeal of knowing our culture was inflicted with prejudice.  It was a subject 'better left unsaid' due to the attacks upon what she witnessed from outside influences. 


The determination and spiritual strength to continue the conversation went a long way to where I continued to acknowledge what my mother was scared to disclose.  Sharing my own knowledge, the enjoyment and respect of the land and sea of my home, Newfoundland and Labrador was the basics for my own celebratory acceptance of my culture.  Staying close to the earth and her wonderful gifts was my own spiritual conquest that I continue to disclose today.


Without status, sharing knowledge of embracing a healthy lifestyle, undoing the generalization that 'all' our people overuse alcohol or drugs is still paramount to me.  Stereotyping 'all' people with this decreases each year as we continue to undo the 'fake' news of our people, heritage and culture. Making my own observations of my own family, I have witnessed and observed our level of health to be more than the average individual.  With our pioneering spirit, and moderate lifestyle 90% of us have the inability to "consume too much of anything" .  Our continuous awareness and high level of intuition we all share helps to create a happy daily life. 


Today, a national holiday in Canada commemorates the indigenous culture of Canada.  In honor of our people, activities will be taking place. Over 400 events will be found today around the country to mark the presence of our people and the strength of our country's awareness of our long lasting culture to respect our land and our people.
 

External link opens in new tab or windowhttps://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/national-day-truth-reconciliation.html







Let's turn Victims into Victory!

A challenge to healthcare supporters to recognize Well Being Week 2024

Not everyone requires secondary and or critical healthcare.  Primary healthcare begins with how we converse with each other about our feelings. Everyone has a different perspective - its how we learn from one another. However, the language being used for the last 14 years here in NL, towards our community at large is exhausting.  The trend is negative and debilitating and we need to change the conversation.

"All in moderation" is the key to the overwhelming increase in people's opinions on the use of language used in our everyday lives. We need to change the conversation.  Most of what we hear is not arming people to build up on their strengths.  The exact opposite is occurring.  The term 'gaslighting' is frighteningly becoming acceptable and it's costing our healthcare system an overwhelming amount of funding on our human, financial and environmental resources. For instance the mobile crisis unit - why not term the support network the mobile support unit?  The very word crisis is being overused and is fearsome, exhausting folks who most of the times just require a calm comforting conversation with another individual that will accept their feelings as real, yet do not require secondary or critical healthcare. Not everyone requires a psychiatrist (medication) most of the time the individual needs a psychologist (exploring feelings - no medication needed).

In an ideal world, our healthcare dollars would provide a individual with a psychologist first and foremost - not a psychiatrist. Our brand new "mental" hospital would do themselves a favour in adopting this and perhaps naming our newest healthcare institution something other than "mental" . We are in fact most of the times speaking about people's feelings.  If we consider another term such as an "Intricate" hospital - would sit better with many who understand the Waterford is focusing on the brain - the most complex organ in the human body.

We all have strengths and weaknesses.  The challenge is to adopt positive language that will arm an individual to build upon their strengths and to consider their weaknesses, as much as they are apparent, they are also a mind-set.  Changing the conversation can change the mind-set of an individual.  The following are a few examples of language we could adopt as we move forward in a positive direction exploring healthy ways of life that will benefit all ages.

ILLNESS                                        HEALTH
MENTAL ILLNESS                        MINDFUL HEALTH
MENTAL                                        MINDFUL
MEDICAL CONDITION                MEDICAL SUPPORT
DISABILITY                                   IMPAIRMENT (usually a physical condition that requires support) hearing, seeing, walking etc.
ANXIETY                                       USELESS ANTICIPATION TO THE INDIVIDUAL (usually overthinking of the future instead of the present)
INJURY                                          TRAUMA - TRAUMA IS TEMPORARY AND WILL BE OVERCOME WITH SUPPORT
DEPRESSION                               EXPLORING NEGATIVE FEELINGS REQUIRES POSITIVE CONVERSATION
DISORDER                                   IMPAIRMENT (usually comes from the need for more knowledge not a substance such as medication)

These are a few examples where we see the use of language not only from victims, but its widespread use by advertisers, media, policy makers and its costs on our healthcare system is enormous.  Let's adopt a more positive approach towards our community.  Many will learn there is truly nothing wrong and the real need is to just change your mind.




What's your budget for the Affordable Breakfast Challenge?


Send in your favourite affordable breakfast to Newfoundcare to win a copy of The ABC's of the Real Treat!  info@newfoundcare.ca


The cost of living for many is criminal.  In order to sustain a balanced life, the NL Poverty Reduction Plan is direct support from the government.  However, we still have to work daily to perform these programs properly. Correct use of funding, the goal is to reduce poverty, build upon education and encourage folks to create a better lifestyle, at home, work and play.  Consider your priorities when you shop.


Use the 888 - 8 hours of sleep, 8 hours of work, 8 hours of recreation. All 3 combined provide a happy healthy lifestyle, diminishing the need for external dependance upon anything other than what gives you great energy in your daily life.  Eating a variety of foods, obtaining a good balance of work and exercise and free time.  We, as a human race are hardly "artificial" when it comes to our development of emotional intelligence and these are adopting this routine folks enjoy each and every day. Consider how you spend your time.


Who can afford to buy local?  This apparently is the great debate for the last couple of generations.  It would be ideal if we all had the space to grow our veggies, and can our meat, however we don't.  And until the earth tilts a little more towards the south, we are susceptible to a very short growing season.  And so, we have these wonderful food suppliers here in the province that offer an array of the fresh food we require each and every day. Consider what you purchase for your daily consumption.


Transportation, rent, electricity...food usually becomes the "last" item in everyone's affordable pocket these days.  And so, the shopping experience has changed for many.  "Bargain shoppers" are always excited to find the latest deal and several have and will bulk up on their favourite items to carry them through the 'tough times".  What food is priority on your list?


The shopping experience should allow one to come home from the shopping area happy and satisfied with the purchase without living in fear if you will have enough to live on tomorrow, so never fear, there is plenty of support and efforts being made throughout the province.  Food banks for one have seen the unforseen, yet they carry on, keeping the faith that your good will supports the community in a time of need, and that's usually right around now, when the weather cools and the heat bill goes up.


For the month of September, Newfoundcare kept track of the cost of the items consumed for breakfast.  Creating new recipes and reinventing old ones made for a healthy savings instead of grabbing that donut every morning with your black coffee.  The following represents September's breakfast budget:


Can of beans 2.50 Dollarama

Loaf of bread 2.50 x 2 = 5.00  Dollarama

Cinnamon 2.50  Dollarama

Honey 2.50  Dollarama

Coconut milk 2.50  Dollarama

Buckwheat 4.00 Bulk barn

Milk 6.00 Sobey’s

Granola 4.00 Dollarama

Can of Pineapple bits 3.00  Dollarama

Trail mix 2.50  Dollarama

Butter 4.00 Dominion

Perogies 4.00 Dominion

Block of Cheddar Cheese - 5.00 Sobey's

Carton of large eggs - 4.00 Shopper's Drug Mart

White Cheddar Rice Cakes 3.50 Dollarama

Cherry Tomatoes – from the garden

Gooseberries – from the garden

Strawberries – from the garden

Black currants – from the garden

Nasturtiums 2.00 Home Hardware

Soil 10.00 Canadian Tire


Total 55.00 - take away the soil and seeds


What's your affordable breakfast budget? 









Affordable Breakfast Challenge brings Trail Mix and Coconut Milk for a cool choice

A warm breakfast is ideal in the cool months, however if you ask kids - many of them prefer a cool refreshing breakfast, milk and cereal for instance is a favourite.  The affordability of milk however is costly as we have watched the steady increasing cost on our food supply. This trend has forced many families to rethink their breakfast options and priorities.

Coconut milk is an ideal substitute for your breakfast buddies to share.  Not only will you require 'less' in your bowl, you'll gain 'more' satisfaction on your stomach and full of energy for the morning at work, home or play.

Here's what you need to enjoy this tasty breakfast:

Trail mix
A dollop of coconut milk
Rice cake on the side and a glass of water with a few squirts of lemon juice




un deux trois quarte cinq six sept WHEAT!!!  Buck Wheat!

The beauty of buckwheat for breakfast

This ancient grain is delicious served as pancakes for a great morning breakfast.  Affordable to the wallet and stomach, buckwheat is almost grey in colour as the refined grain is dark in colour.  Most of us here in NL eat wheat on a regular basis.  This in fact, is NOT a local food to NL and is shipped in from mainland Canada.  Wheat is the #1 export of grain in Canada and serves the global population to keep our stomachs full.  Several countries are grateful for the wheat export from Canada and next to India and China's export of rice, wheat surpasses much of what we consume.  Noodle soup, pasta, kraft dinner, cookies, cakes, chocolate bars, even some potato chips now contain wheat and those little goldfish all ages enjoy (bite size cracker with cheese flavour). 

Over the centuries wheat has been the main staple in the diet of many in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our fish and brewis for instance, and if you have the opportunity to visit one of the outport fishing villages in NL, you'll be sure to find a plate stacked with slices of the yummy white stuff next to the butter dish in the center of the kitchen table along with a cup of tea.

WHEAT IS NOT FOR EVERYONE

You may recall the statement I mentioned when I first wrote The ABC's of the Real Treat!  - Everything in moderation.  The same applies to wheat.  Many have grown to witness allergies are on the rise and wheat is one of them.  Discovering this issue within my own family, wheat was eliminated from the diet - wait! don't panic!  - only for a  period of 14 days to alleviate the body's function to get rid of toxins built up from too much wheat.  If you experience allergies such as hay fever or eczema try eliminating wheat from your diet for a period of time - about 14 days.  You will find those symptoms disappear within a few days, however continue on eating a wheatless diet for the remainder of the 14 period.  You will find you not only have less allergic symptoms but your energy will increase as well.






Well Being Week September 22- -28 Time for Health


Health is the real wealth however it's as if someone put a "Reich" loan on Newfoundland and Labrador long before Paul McCartney was invited to NL by one man and one woman to learn more about how the traditional ways of life in this province and our wealthy knowledge that sustains health. Their influence is still evident in the community today.

To begin this weeks' celebration the Health Care Foundation and NL Health Services teamed up with the Community Sector Council NL showcasing the multitude of support available for residents across the province at the St. John's Convention Centre on Sunday September 22, 2024.

Among the various booths the public were invited to a speaking event.  There, the discussion began with a celebration of our heritage, brought to us by the St. John's Mi'kmaw Women's Circle. Singing and story telling enlightened the audience as they described the story of the drum in song.  Delivering the drum sound symbolizes the heart beat from the animal it came from. The water song, and the travelling song, describing the heritage that the mother is the protector of water and to wish those on their journey with music to carry them forward. The earth bound nature resonated throughout the room.

Speakers from the Cardiovascular and Stroke Provincial Program brought stories of success and encouragement for those who attended.  Fergus and Fergus (Fergus O'Bryne and Son) also provided entertainment performing their great songs.  Other guest speakers were, Sharing the Harvest NL, Barry Fordham along with Josh Smee from Food First NL. Their discussion showed the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages to our province when it comes to the resources we have on hand here.  Dr. Conners along with Dr. Parfrey inspired the audience with their personal outlook on health and the need to make primary health care a priority.  Primary healthcare begins at home with sound education and a healthy daily routine, the 888:  8 hours of work, 8 hours of rest and 8 hours of recreation. This approach ensures a balanced lifestyle, promoting overall well-being and reducing stress.

Accompanied with Cassie Chisholm, from the Cardiovascular and Stroke Provincial Program, Dr. Parfrey and Ms. Chisholm talked about our "Super Power" and the message was clear, "we're here for you, but we would really prefer not to see you". "Our culture is our Super Power". The meaning is evident, primary health care starts at home, and yes, our caring givers in the health industry stand out from anyone else in the country when it comes to trust and loyalty in our healthcare system here in NL by providing exceptional and personalized care.

The overall display of support and knowledge combined with singing, dancing and good local food was encouraging for participants that these are healthy ways of life we celebrate health here in NL.  Also the encouragement of volunteering as Dr. Parfrey expressed is not only good for the community but brings about a sense of wellbeing and belonging, "as we have 210,455 volunteers in this province", he said, "the highest in the country". Furthermore, these efforts significantly contribute to the development of essential skills and community resilience.

Apart from the "positives" expressed about our people and province, alarming numbers of people with health issues still exists.  Education is key in arming people with sound knowledge and the statistics don't lie as this is the number 1 factor related to poverty.

The Poverty Reduction Plan was discussed and it is to combat these issues and the intentions this time are real.  Providing the province for a full school lunch program, along with disability savings plan and a focus on support for seniors who want to "age in place", with housing and education. There are still gaps and those between 60-64 who do not benefit are encouraged to focus on the importance of primary health care.   Additional resources and policy changes are needed to bridge these gaps effectively.

All of the those who participated in the event offer free advice and support to the community providing the latest in education and knowledge for people's well being. Hence the theme WELL BEING WEEK 2024.  The CSCNL will be taking this event around the province to raise awareness and advocate for enhanced healthcare services.





On the Rocks Fusion Resto Bar

A story of success for a new arrival to our great province, NL. 

Abhi Panwar moved to NL in 2020.  As several with any knowledge of Newfoundland and Labrador, our large island is isolated from the mainland. It made for a safe haven for those during the pandemic. Panwar found comfort in isolating here in Newfoundland and Labrador. The rugged landscapes and warm community provided a unique sense of peace and security.

Located next to the War Memorial Downtown St. John's, the hip, quaint resto-bar, On the Rocks Fusion Resto Bar became Panwar's new brainchild. A great choice for locals and visitors.  On the Rocks opened earlier this year and Panwar has received welcoming and repeated visits from customers. The service is great! Offering a full menu and bar service specializing in Indian cuisine, plus daily specials 25.00 or less, are served in this bright and vibrant spot nestled just up the stairs from Harbourside Park.  All of the the fantastic dishes accompany their wine list as well, as they "offer their resto bar customers the quality and quantity they deserve", said Panwar.

Seating for upwards of 40 people or more, On the Rocks can provide anything from an intimate dining experience to a full group of diners. Panwar worked in the restaurant industry in BC prior to moving to NL and becoming a subcontractor for a local taxi company during the pandemic.  "As a previous manager (of a restaurant) it was easy for me", said Panwar, "it just made sense to do so."

Hiring local staff, Panwar is always busy with his team as they create new ideas and menu items.  Offering daily specials like fish and chips or wings, gives customers at the On the Rocks a choice of local or international flavour.   The restaurant has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a unique dining experience.

On the Rocks is now taking bookings for the upcoming fall season for any of those special functions and/or Christmas Parties.  For reservations with One the Rocks contact 709-552-2255 or email  External link opens in new tab or windowontherocksstjohns@gmail.com




September 22, 10:13 am NDT

A little more depth into the dynamics of TIME

If you really want to learn about time visit the External link opens in new tab or windowJohnson GEOCentre at Signal Hill, St. John's NL.

Time. How do you measure time?  Time is of the essence.  Time is valuable.  It's so valuable, you can not buy it, it's priceless.  You can not buy time and then exchange it for something else if you are not satisfied.  Creativity happens each and every second of your daily productivity.  In other words, Time = Creativity.

This Autumn, what are your plans during the equality of our time zone?  The Equinox of Autumn (when there is an equal amount of 12 hours of sunlight and 12 hours of darkness), occurs in the northern hemisphere on this wonderful third rock from the sun, Planet Earth. 

Harvesters follow these precious cycles for centuries for agricultural purposes that are paramount for our food security.  You can not fake time.  Time is of its own entity.  It holds no favour over one or the other. To truly respect time people practice living their daily lives creating a productive one.  To view the "fruits of your labour", so to speak. 

Other age-old myths and/or statements of time of the Equinox include that the prevailing weather on this day will be the average weather for the season.  Something to observe.   



TBTN -Take Back the Night 2024

 End Sexual Violence and support survivors by participating in community events and educational programs.


With the average temperature around 20 degrees Celsius or higher this September, it was cooler and overcast yesterday during Take Back The Night march. Celebrated each year to increase awareness against sexual violence, boundaries are sought out for men and women of all ages. Zero contact (as many had to practice during the pandemic applies to raise awareness of one's personal right to exist without physical contact from another human being). Its impact on health and personal boundaries is profound and far-reaching. It encourages conversations about consent and respect in both personal and professional environments.


The key is communication.  The way we exchange verbal and non-verbal communication towards one another to work in a team environment, creating strong interpersonal relationships that foster trust and collaboration.


The march this year ended at Harbourside Park with fun for all ages to celebrate our happy city, St. John's NL.  Prior to the march, folks around the city could witness the External link opens in new tab or windowRed Arrow Royal Airforce as they made their last circle on tour of Canada.


External link opens in new tab or windowhttps://vocm.com/2024/09/20/take-back-the-night/





Can't get enough Nasturtiums!  A quick cool breakfast packed with Iron and Vitamin C


No time for cooking breakfast?  No problem!  Nothing nicer than fresh baked beans, however for those quick needed meals, a can of maple syrup beans is excellent for energy.  Very tasty with a mix of nasturtiums right from the garden.  An affordable juice with breakfast; Lemonade!  Just a few squirts in a glass of cool water, is not only refreshing but helps your digestive system as well.


For an extra tasty breakfast, try some homemade jam, for your toast, and if you prefer something a little less sweet, herb and garlic butter is easy to make.


Cut up a fresh clove of garlic in tiny diced size pieces

Add a tablespoon of butter

Fresh chives will add a nice crunch too!

Spread on your toast, broil in the oven for a few minutes and voila!


The luck of Friday the 13th!  Fresh fruit and flowers for breakfast!

Nothing nicer than fresh Newfoundland berries and nasturtiums for breakfast!  After a hard week of work and/or school, those antioxidants and vitamins in our food are the solution for sluggishness.  Mixed with a bit of granola and milk, plus shredded fresh coconut, this tasty flower with berries will keep you full. 

Growing nasturtiums is easy.  This annual flower can be found where seeds are sold.  Plant in periods during the summer months so that you always have a few to sprinkle on salad, or garnish your favourite bbq favourites.  Kids get a kick out of the fact that they can eat these pretty flowers!  It's fun and packed with vitamin C. 

Google nasturtiums and this is what you'll find:
Both the leaves and petals of the nasturtium plant are packed with nutrition, containing high levels of vitamin C. It has the ability to improve the immune system, tackling sore throats, coughs, and colds, as well as bacterial and fungal infections.



Newfoundcare Breakfast recipes - 30 day challenge!

What's your favourite affordable breakfast?

During September, Newfoundcare has created an Affordable Breakfast Challenge and wants to hear about your wackiest creations for breakfast.  Your favourite recipes for breakfast or your newest inventions are the challenge! At the end of the month, the winner will be chosen and receive a free copy of External link opens in new tab or windowThe ABC's of the Real Treat! with their recipe and photo placed here.

With school back everyone is getting into the swing of the daily routine.  Off to work and school each day, time management and affordable eating is a "must" . Gathering up the latest ideas from the kitchen can be made fun and easy. Think outside of the box (excuse the pun) to dream up your new ideas and affordable meals.  Combining the oddest thing can become the most delicious!  For the next month, Newfoundcare will showcase a variety of affordable recipes. At the end of the 30 days, Newfoundcare will be offering this fun and active food learning program at the Lantern, St. John's NL.  October 15, 2024 folks can participate in learning The ABC's of the Real Treat! program to use at home, at school, or your community kitchen.

Here's today's recipe for you to try.

2-3 tbs of canned pineapple bits
4-6 chopped cherry tomatoes
A sprinkle of your favourite trail mix

Cinnamon toast croutons
Toast plain bread as usual, let cool
Cut into cubes and place on a pan
Spray with a bit of grape seed oil and/or brush with butter
A dash of cinnamon over your croutons
Broil on low heat until desired crisp and voila!   Perfectly golden, homemade croutons ready to elevate your side dish for breakfast.

_______________________________________________

To get in touch with Newfoundcare email info@newfoundcare.ca



Today's Special, Blueberry Poutine!

Harry Clarke, manager of the External link opens in new tab or windowRose and Vine is pleased to present folks a full menu of delicious food at the Water Street central location.  "Not too many know we are now offering food," as he offered me their latest menu, and it's great! 

I asked if he could suggest anything in particular out of all of their choices, and he said they just arrived at a great combination that will surprise the pallet, Blueberry poutine! With a combination of cheese curds and local blueberries, topped off with gravy, this stick-to-your-ribs dish has become very popular, to those that "know". 

The Rose and Vine (previously known as the Rose and Thistle and the Grapevine), has always been the prefect place for live entertainment and now during the pedestrian mall season, to sit in the shade on hot summer day with a refreshing beverage, it's an optimum location during your visit downtown.

Harry also informed me that the establishment is looking forward to offering a daily special off their menu and as most restaurant owners and bar establishments downtown, they also plan to provide a day for downtown staff to enjoy a discount when they visit. "We are just now in the preliminary stages of gearing up for the fall and winter months," said Harry. 

The tourism peak season has been good for folks downtown this year, with so many events attracting visitors from away, many repeat visitors prefer the low season to just relax and enjoy the local culture and the people.  This year, looks even more promising from the word of many visitors to Newfoundland and Labrador.


Food, Flavour and Fun.  Look forward to Wooden Walls Blueberry Liqueur coming this fall. 

Where the land of Blueberries meets the sea, take a tour at the Wooden Walls.


Newfoundland and Labrador, the land of berries, Vinland to the Vikings who visited our island over a thousand years ago, would be proud of this little gem to water their pallet.  A family friendly environment, folks can appreciate fine liqueur made from local berries such as their latest upcoming distilled Blueberry Liqueur that will be available early September if the harvest is right.  "We're just waiting on the berries", said General Manager, Matthew Pribag. 


Upon visiting this quaint and comfortable venue, (inside and out), I happened to be present while folks were on a tour inside with Matthew. Groups can walk through the distillery and learn the process of the local flavours provided.  Those accustomed to St. John's would appreciate this great little get away and the experience is like none other when it comes to fine liqueurs and tapas.  Delicious food prepared by Beck Cook accompanies the flavours of their vodka and coffee liqueurs and spirits.  Evening Tide Vodka, Wooden Walls award winning varietal vodka of 2024, is one of the delicious blends that visitors can sample.  For $10 you can choose the spirits you would like to experience and the choices are vast! 


My first visit to the establishment, located in the parking lot of GAZE Seeds on Harbour Drive, I met bartender, Noah.  Noah is a wealth of information, not to mention great service! The sampling suggestions were perfect for my first visit.  Coffee Liqueur, Evening Tide Vodka, Blueberry Liqueur and the Wheat Vodka, accompanied with Scallop Ceviche.  There's nothing like Wooden Walls when it comes to featuring your next venue. In a heritage location, any type of event, you'll be sure to expect class at External link opens in new tab or windowWooden Walls.


Wooden Walls' neighbours appreciate their business too!  With folks visiting for boat tours, they can expect to receive a complimentary coupon to follow up with a tour of the Wooden Walls. Wooden Walls opened in December 2022, just after the Covid-19 restrictions lifted in Newfoundland and Labrador and has been growing in international style.  I look forward to my next visit.



 

 


Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival 2024! 

The weather couldn't have been more perfect for this year's folk festival which brought out the best crowd in several years!  The lineup might have had something to do with this as well plus the great volunteers that put off the venue each year. 


The festival organized this year allowed patrons to buy a beverage of beer and sit where they would like among the venue, (unlike years before when an alcholic beverage was only allowed in a fenced-off tent area).  Unlike the music lineup for the evening's show, the line up to buy a beverage could have been dismissed had the organizers considered a rep to go around selling the beverages instead of having to leave your favourite spot and interrupt viewing the show.  "It's the plan for next year," said one official, "certainly to avoid lineups."


Musical enthusiasts and folk song lovers enjoyed the Saturday evening show with its largest turn out to hear Steve Earle, Emmylou Harris and local talent Duane Andrews plus several other musicians. 


Each year the festival runs from Thursday to Sunday with daytime and evening events scheduled.  Many local pubs also support artists by featuring them during the festival.  This year, the feedback from many was highly favourable. One patron who has not missed a folk festival in 48 years, stated "this was the best one ever!" 


The atmosphere supported all ages where several families brought their lawn chairs and picnic baskets to enjoy the day's event.   Those that participated in coming to the show were also asked to bring along a food item to donate to the Community Food Sharing Association. 



 

Camping Enthusiasts!! Tour the island of Newfoundland for $165.00!

External link opens in new tab or windowDRL Bus Lines is touring in comfort. Boarding the bus either in St. John's or Port Aux Basque, the motor coach makes a number of stops along the way in some of the most picturesque locations on the island.  You can board the bus from the ferry in Cape Breton, or leave the airport in St. John's, Gander, or Deer Lake and hop on the bus for a ridiculousy inexpensive amount, much cheaper than various coach lines and tour buses. 


Servicing local communities, you'll stop in areas like Clarenville, Lewisporte, and beautiful Corner Brook.  DRL Coachlines is affordable and the safest way to travel throughout the island portion of Newfoundland and Labrador. With a steward on board, you'll pay in cash and your one-way fee does not require a reservation. 


Considering a camping excursion to Newfoundland?  The DRL Bus is your ticket to locating some of the best parks in the province.  One in particular, Terra Nova National Park.  With so many stops along the way you'll get a true sense of the island and your surroundings.  For more information contact External link opens in new tab or windowDRL today!


City Makeover


A common occurance in the City of St. John's, NL after the long winter is Spring cleaning.  Several communities like St. John's in Newfoundland and Labrador gear up to obtain bulk garbage, clean foilage from falling leafs etc.  However, St. John's especially, has been growing a reputation of dirt on our city streets.  Why?  Well, it's obvious that a clean city is not priority in the city budget.  Perhaps its burried deep within the budget of tourism, considering the influx of associations across the country that decide to have their conventions here. 


Among several other visitors to the city each year, we are now welcoming cruise ships earlier and this year, in Spring!  They come and visit and their unfortunate comments reflect how dirty the city is when they walk about downtown St. John's.  It might be best to put them on a tour bus right away and take them to CBS, Conception Bay South, and a ferry ride over the ocean on account of the lack of TLC St. John's has been given to its pedestrian areas. 


Downtown St. John's basically consists of three main thorough fairs.  Harbour Drive, Water Street and Duckworth Street.  Then you're heading in to up-town towards Long's Hill, King's Bridge Road, Hamilton Avenue or Rawlin's Cross. There are beautiful resting places throughout the city yet, the commonly used routes, bus routes especially, could use a city makeover using our City's Tourism budget dollars as one area of good investment. 


Instead of advertising on media, install park benches garbage cans, bill-board maps saying, "you are here", and sites to see in the area before hopping on the next bus to Bowring Park.


The recent investment in the few seating areas on Water Street has been dissapointing to Duckworth Street vendors since the inception of the pedestrian mall.  Season 4 is about to begin.


Vendors on Water Street will be closed to vehicle traffic during the summer months, yet Duckworth Street remains the same.  Visitors to the downtown region will most likely miss out on Duckworth Street vendors due to the 'action' being on the street below. The on-going debate continues yet, the surplus of litter and dog feces is not helping the matter and Spring clean up is done for the downtown region.  Therefore, our hard earned tax dollars going towards the tourism budget should include attiributes to making the city more clean and comfortable in the very least for those who like to be a tourist in their own town. 


St. John's is the captial of Newfoundland and Labrador and the largest city in the province. Statistics on the amount of visitors that come to our city are readily available and yet it would much more than ideal to say I would rather be writing about a satisfied welcome, however, St. John's lacks in comparison to larger cities that spray-wash their streets overnight for cafe and shops to open up to fresh pedestrain traffic the following morning. 


A survey link has been included if you wish to vote. External link opens in new tab or windowCity Makeover The response will be shared with the powers that be at the City of St. John's, NL.

 


Fred's Records hosts album launch, Garbage Street


It's Saturday afternoon, and the downtown region is beginning to bussel with Springtime community activity.  After a few enjoyable coffees, it was time to go shopping, for music. And why not? A chance to take in the album launch of Garbage Street by Mick Davis and Thin Love! At St. John's oldest record store, Fred's Records! The show was fantatastic!

A grand crowd enjoyed the all ages show at the Duckworth Street store with the latest groovy tunes by the band. One of St. John's finest talents, External link opens in new tab or windowMick Davis and Thin Love, filled the room with unlookers to catch a glimpse of the show and an autograph by the artists. "An album launch at Fred's Records is an ideal location for an all ages show to truly get a glimpse of the artists and their work", said Tony.

A quote from Mick himself will tell you how exciting it is!  "This album was created by six people: Allan, Craig, Jill, and myself, plus engineer and 5th Beatle, Krisjan Leslie, and Duncan Major, our jacket designer. (I will say how much I love this cover art: I love it!) I wrote the bulk of these songs as we were recording."

Host and long-time employee of Fred's Records, Tony Ploughman, couldn't hide his enjoyment as he kept the store in regular operation for the show.  Tony has a keen ear for good music and talent. His years spent with quality hand picked mentions includes Mick Davis.  As the band played unlookers were able to browse the store, see the band and meet up with others.  "Regular business operates as per usual during our shows", said Tony.

Tony's description sums up the atmosphere. "You get a performance that's up close and personal, intimate...unlike any other. You'll probably hear a story you won't hear anywhere else.  And everyone is there to celebrate the music.  The sound is beautiful.  Wooden ceilings and floors, and after the show the performers hang out, sign copies, and meet and greet while we crank the new album over the main. That's the vibe, the amazing energy at a Fred's Instore."

Live shows are not uncommon in St. John's and they offer an upclose exchange of the artists and their music through their audience. Several large acts have enjoyed playing here in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Many will comment on how welcomed they feel by fans as artists perform at our local venues to entertain.  The next venue for Mick Davis and Thin Love will be at Iceberg Alley Performance June 2024 where several acts will take place over the duration of a week.

If you would like to purchase Mick Davis and Thin Love, the latest album, Garbage Street, contact Fred's Records for an array of musical talent, albums, CD's and music memorabilia.


The Etsy Market


Meghan Fahey, Team Captain of Etsy Market, and I had a chance to meet up at the St. John’s Etsy Market on Saturday, May 11th.  The Atlantic Place was buzzing with activity of all sorts of creative talent, from handmade purses, and ornaments, to seal skin and jewellery. Meghan’s booth, External link opens in new tab or windowDriven to Ink, was kept busy as people caught a glimpse of unique cards, all handmade where many just couldn’t say no! All beautifully handcrafted, there was a greeting card there for all sorts of occasions.


As one of the captains of Etsy market, Meghan, along with Liza-Ann Tucker of External link opens in new tab or windowNan's Attic Round The Bay, and team photographer, Kara O’Keefe, have brought about a great opportunity for local market and vendors for NL.


Curious to know more, I asked Meghan a few questions as to how Etsy Markets work.  It’s quite an organized system of selecting vendors that will participate in their upcoming markets.  Jury markets, as they term it, select the vendors that will compliment their next venue.  Be that the time of year, what a vendor has to offer and of course, space!  Not everyone will get selected. 


The process involves applying for one of the 3 markets held each year.  The next one will be September 29th and November 17th at the Farmer’s Market.  The Spring Downtown Market held this past weekend at the Atlantic Place attracted approximately 2000 people of all ages.  There was something there for everyone.


The first Etsy Market in St. John’s was held at the Anna Templeton Centre in 2015 and continues to expand. Concentrating on hand made craft and vintage, The Etsy market team leaders along with Captain Meghan had 46 vendors at this year’s Spring Downtown Market. I asked Meghan how one can get involved. 


“The next application comes out the end of May 2024.”  Meghan explained, a 3-to-4-week application process then takes place and gives vendors ample time to prepare for the next Etsy Market.  The cost is $80.00 a booth.  The application will be posted on Facebook or Instagram.




Solar Storm 2024 Brings Aurora Borealis

The biggest solar storm in 20 years hit Earth in the early hours of May 10th, knocking out radio transmissions in Asia, eastern Europe and eastern Africa.  As beautiful as they are, the aurora borealis continues to remind us that our biggest star in the galaxy, the sun, is more powerful than anything else.  As we rely heavily on electricity for our well being, cellular technology, and radio frequencies to fly our airplanes, generate refridgeration, watch our computers, all of it can be taken away in a moment during a solar storm.  Electrical grids disrupted can sometimes take months to repair depending up on the damage caused. 


Most of us are aware of the need to conserve energy these days as our blue planet keeps reminding us of how vulnerable we are.  Turning off the lights, turning down the air conditioning or turning the down the heat, careful use of our electricity all helps in lessening the intensity that brings solar storm activity.  With over 8 billion people on earth, over 75% of us use electricity in our daily lives.  Together we can use it more wisely.  To help all ages understand a little bit more about the universe, here is a link to the External link opens in new tab or windowMighty Sky, music by Beth Nielsen Chapman.