Welcome to the first edition of the voice of Rosewillow, The Oracle. The Oracle is a monthly newspaper filled with content from the townsfolk of Rosewillow and other articles from around the globe. We are looking for contributors to the newspaper, so if you have something interesting to say, we’d love to hear from you.

You can submit a single article, or better still, contribute a monthly piece. Your piece(s) may be edited for content or length but our editor will make every attempt to preserve the integrity of what you write. Feel free to express your opinions on everything from politics to bird watching but like any paper, The Oracle is for a general audience so try to ensure that what you write follows the same rules of law and good taste that any other modern newspaper would enforce.

Send submissions or inquiries to theoracle@rosewillow.ca

Membership to Rosewillow is absolutely free. Simply head over to the Membership Information Page and fill out the forms, and you’re in! You choose your handle and select some basic options to create your own unique persona in the town. You can have just a handle, or you can add a homepage, message board, guest book, and private chat!

Once you get more comfortable in town and begin to form relationships with other members, you may want to enhance your membership. For an annual fee of $21.00 Cdn, you can have a unique icon of your own choosing attached to your username. You’ll also get special access to members only pages, you can upload graphics, and get your own Rosewillow.ca email address.

Got a product or service you think the members of Rosewillow might be interested in? Apply for a vendor’s license. You’ll get all the privileges of a full membership and the ability to market your products (within certain boundaries). You’ll have to email the My Office for details.

We have two main chat areas in Rosewillow. Come to the Willow Café, pull up a stool and sit for awhile. Willy and Milly run the place and are always happy to have company. If you want something a little stronger than coffee, come on over to Joe’s Pool Room. You might want to sign up for a Free Pokerstars.net account so you can join in the occasional group poker game!

Sports fans gather at the Sports Center to discuss their favorite game with Ed. Come cheer on your favorite club, sport, or in the case of the 2008 Olympics, country. There has been some talk about a baseball game that everyone in Rosewillow can participate in. Put on your giant hat and get your trash talk warmed up. It’s going to be a great game!

Feeling a little under the weather? Come talk about what troubles you at the Wellness Center, Rosewillow’s holistic center of healing. Boji Stone with help you get better with a combination of alternative healing techniques and preventative measures. She will recommend a regimen of healing herbs, vitamins, energy work, exercise, yoga, meditation, etc, or a combination of any of these. Let the master healer work her magic for a better, healthier life!

We’re not all tech gurus and Internet wizards. Sometimes we need a little help getting a web page together or getting one of those little clicky gizmos to work properly. Post your problem in the Tech Help Forum and let the masters of the byte help you solve technical issues. The more detail you give in the description of your problem, the better our techies are able to help you overcome your hurdles.

Everybody is good at something. You might like to paint, work with wood, take photographs, sculpt or even sew. The sky’s the limit! Showcase your artwork at the Rosewillow Arts and Crafts Guild. You can discuss techniques and styles with other artists who enjoy the same skills that you do.

If you decide to choose one venue for your socializing, don’t forget to take a walk around town once in a while and see what’s happening in our other rooms. Rosewillow is a dynamic community that will always be evolving and changing. Don’t be the last to get into the next big thing!

So Welcome and enjoy your stay in out little town of RoseWillow.

Your Mayor

Are you Toxic?

If you answer yes to any of the following chances are great you’re body could use a little Spring Cleaning.

If you smoke, and we don’t just mean dope ~!
If you drink alcohol, caffeine---coffee, tea, soda pops (diet or otherwise) regularly.
If you’re regularly exposed to chemicals {hello, who isn’t?}
If you drink less than a liter of water daily. {water what’s that?}
If you have sticky slimy B.M’s {if your sh*! don’t stink then never mind}.
If you’re ugh…..often constipated ~!
If you crave JUNK overly processed, sugary, fried FOOD--oh yeah baby ~!
If your ass is dragg’n--you’re as bloated as a goat, you have zero get up and go ~!
If you’ve developed blood sugar problems zipping high or dipping low.
If your mood resembles someone on speed then a roller coaster dip ~!
If you can’t get it up---or you’re really just not interested in SEX.
If you’re having trouble falling asleep toss-n-turning all night long.
If you’re over weight---more than pleasingly plump or under weight Olive Oyl skinny
If you take a boat load of prescription pills and other non-legal-recreational stuff.
If you look like Dracula’s 2nd cousin--pasty and pale with uncle Fester dark circles under the eyes ~!
If you’re a nervous wreck with blinding spells of road rage ~! Ok maybe not rage, but everyone is getting on your last nerve.
Run don’t walk, {which could include most everyone} it’s time to De-Tox ~!

Even though the body is a miraculous thing---by nature [our internal detoxification system] is efficiently designed via the liver, lungs, kidneys, skin and lymphatic system to rid us of non nutrients, defined as that which the cells are unable to convert to energy. Yet in this modern world bombarded by chemicals as never before---over burdened by junk food toxic diets and environment. From Industrial and pharmaceutical pollution, over processed chemical ladden food--plastic out the wazoo---burning fossil fuels, this and more creates tremendous stress on the body’s innate cleansing system. Which is a bummer, but never fear HELP is on the way. Next month we’ll talk about what to do if you’re in need of a Spring Cleaning Detox.

-Boji Stone

Hops shortage spiking up beer prices!

Monday, February 25, 2008
Hops and barley shortage causes increase in beer prices

WOODINVILLE, Wash. - Beer drinkers, listen up - your next glass or pint could cost you more.

The price increase coming to store shelves near you isn't due to rising gas prices. Hops and malted barley, two big crops for beer making, are facing major shortages.

At Red Hook Brewery in Woodinville, spokespeople say their production costs have gone way up. And they aren't alone - other microbrew makers are reporting the cost of beer making is up because hops and barley prices have shot up. And that means you'll be seeing the difference on store shelves.

Frank Schuck, Whole Foods regional product specialist, knows his beer and the importance of hops in brewmaking.

"It's essential, also acts as a preservative," said Schuck.

That goes for malted barley too.

"It's the initial fuel that feeds the yeast that makes the beer," said Schuck.

But Schucks also knows both ingredients are at a premium due to several factors and haven't stopped.

"Droughts in Europe, fire in Yakima about a year and a half ago which destroyed the hops crop," said Schuck.

Severe weather ruined hops production in Europe, causing many farmers to plant corn instead for ethanol production. It all means hops are now going for $35 to $40 a pound instead of the $3 to $5 this time last year. Barley rates are also up 25 to 40 percent.

The production costs are just now trickling to consumers. Whole Foods has posted a sign saying beer customers can expect "dramatic price" increases, about one to two dollars on every six pack.

And costs may not go down until this perfect storm of agricultural and market conditions subside.

"The storm is going to get rougher before it gets any better," said Schuck.

-CHRIS DANIELS / KING 5 News
Footnote:
Though the hops shortage may effect the rest of the world there’s always beer on tap over at Joe’s Pool Room! Rumor has it he’s growing his own this summer!

We can't do it with out your help though! We need contributors as the Mayor has said. If you would like to submit a story, headline, tip what have you send it to us at theoracle@rosewillow.ca. We'll be happy to look it over and who knows you just see your name in text next month.

If you have any thoughts or questions direct them strait to my mailbox editor@rosewillow.ca. I look forward to hearing from you!

-Pierre

Editor and Chief of the Rosewillow Oracle

I frankly felt like the reception we received on the way in from the airport was very warm and hospitable. And I want to thank the Canadian people who came out to wave -- with all five fingers -- for their hospitality.
-- George W. Bush

In view of the fact that God limited the intelligence of man, it seems unfair that he did not also limit his stupidity.
-- Konrad Adenauer

I love being a writer. What I can't stand is the paperwork.
-- Peter De Vries

Is there a Murder afoot?.. And... What really happend to Rose Willow?

My Mom used to make a wonderfully simple dinner for us years ago. All made in one pot which made clean up even better! Since we’ve just passed another St. Patrick’s day and this is defiantly an Irish dinner I thought I’d share.

First you’ll have to find a Cottage Roll. Never heard of a cottage roll? It’s a boneless pork shoulder butt cured in a sweet brine.These used to be easy to come by and very inexpensive but not so much anymore. I’m sure prices vary in different places but I’ve found here the prices on it have almost doubled and I always have to order them in. You may luck out depending on your location though. If you can’t find one in your meat department ask the butcher if he will bring one in for you. If you have to order it get 2 you’ll love ‘em!

Now the way I cook it is to get a very large pot I poke lots and lots of holes in the bag the Cottage Roll is in and I bring the whole lot to a boil.. This will take a bit of the excess brine out. Once it’s come to a boil leave it for about 10 minutes then drain the whole lot and remove the ham from the plastic but leave on the netting! (Don’t ask me why you leave the plastic bag on. This is what mom did I just followed her instructions *S*.)

Fill the pot and put the Cottage Roll back in and bring it back to a rolling boil again.. Turn your heat down a bit and let it simmer away for the reccomended time on the bag.. oh yea read the bag before you toss the thing in the boiling water k?
Rule of thumb is;
under 3 1/2 pounds (1.75kg), cook 35 minutes per pound (500g);
over 3 1/2 pounds (1.75 kg), cook 30 minutes per pound (500g);
You’ll know when it’s getting done the meat will peel off easy.

About 30 minutes before it’s done.. toss into the same pot of water some peeled potatoes and carrots. Keep boiling till the carrots and potatoes are half way done and then throw in a cabbage that’s been quartered..

When your veggies are done you’re ready to chow down. The meat will just fall apart. Cottage Roll might be a bit stringy but man o man it’s sure tasty.Mix up a bit of hot mustard on the side.. Butter up those veggies and you’ll have a very simple meal that will really stick to your ribs! Plus it’s a really easy clean up too!!

Save the water left in the pot for the next day. If you have left over veggies and meat just cut up the works and make a delicious soup. Or add more veggies and perhaps Beans or rice. Use your imagination!

-EnJoy!

The Real Easter Egg. PYSANKY!

Pysanky are a special type of Ukrainian decorative egg. They are decorated with batik; that is, beeswax is used to trace designs on eggs that are then dyed in different colors according to the intention of the designer. "Pysanky" comes from the Ukrainain word for "to write." Designs on eggs may be painted, scratched, or dyed without design, but only pysanky are eggs decorated using the beeswax-and-dye method.

Tradition of Pysanky:

The pysanky tradition dates back to Pagan times in Ukraine. A symbol of eternity (the surface of an egg may be followed without end), pysanky were responsible for maintaining a balance between good an evil in the world. The more pysanky that existed, the harder it became for evil to gain power. Eggs also symbolized fertility, rebirth, springtime, and the sun. When Christianity infiltrated the Pagan rituals of creating pysanky, Ukrainian eggs symbolized the resurrection of Christ.

How Pysanky Were Decorated:

Pysanky were colored using natural dyes from fruits, vegetables, flowers, leaves, and bark. Women worked at night to prepare eggs. Symbols and decorations were passed from generation to generation and tended to be regional. After the eggs had been decorated, the yolk was blown out using two tiny holes on either tip of the egg and the inside was allowed to dry.

How Pysanky Were Used:

Ukrainian eggs were given to relatives, friends, and respected village members. Eggs were also placed around the house for protection, arranged at the graves of loved ones, and used around family farms to promote good harvests, healthy livestock, and prosperous beehives.

Symbolism of Pysanky:

Pysanky are still created in Ukraine today, typically around Easter. Symbolism of pysanky range from animals, to flowers, to geometric designs. Both Christian and Pagan symbols have survived and evolved from ancient times.

-K Kubilius

For more information on the Art of Egg decorating we've provided a few links to great sources on the net!
-http://eggs-files.tripod.com/pysanky_4.html
Great site on the meanings of the symbols on the eggs
-http://www.sofika.com/history.php
More history on Pysanky eggs
-http://www.learnpysanky.com/getting_started.html
Step by step and how to's on egg decoration.
-http://www.allthingsukrainian.com/Supplies/Supplies.htm
Wanna give it a try? This place has everything!!

You may be experiencing frustrations over personal or work objectives at this time. A sense of being controlled by external conditions or by a particular individual can be too much to handle now. You might need to probe into and question your own or someone else's motivations as jealousy, resentment, and hidden anger might play a greater role in your work or love relationships than you realize at this time. Working for others can make you feel confined and you might prefer a period of solitude to release some of the pressures you encounter. Quiet contemplation and time alone with your private thoughts can be very healing and regenerative now. Although there may be some uncertainty with regard to your innermost goals and ambitions, this period can encourage you to leave a dead-end job or clear away old responsibilities and commitments which have outlived their usefulness.

Taurus:

Open communication with a lover, friend, or relative may help relieve your worries or concerns at this time. Your close, healthy, and meaningful relationships can provide you with invaluable insight and new perspectives on resolving fears and inhibitions. This is a good time to let go of any hurt or guilt associated with your past or patch up any differences that occur between you and another individual. You may also feel more inclined to look into ways to improve your personal health and well-being, especially if you have been undergoing recent stress or a minor health setback.

Gemini:

Your emotions are sensitized now. You are more responsive to subtle changes in mood, and you are more sensitive to delicate changes in the atmosphere around you. You may suddenly feel uncomfortable with the colors in your house, noise from neighbors, or the drab decor of some room. This is an excellent time to decorate, clean up, and add an imaginative flourish to your environment. If you just sit back and dream about how nice it would be if your home and surroundings were more tastefully done, they won't change! Your imagination is keen now, so put it to work; you will enjoy the work once you get into it. This is an excellent time to develop and expand your musical and artistic tastes. You may find yourself digging up "golden oldies" that you haven't heard in many years, or buying a record album of beautiful music that you have heard but hasn't yet become part of your regular musical listening.

Cancer:

Much of your emotional fulfillment comes from work or career achievements at this time. You may have an increased awareness of your inner motivations and can commit yourself to accomplishing any personal projects or aims that you set your sights on. You put your heart and effort into all you undertake and find purpose and meaning in your assignments. Women can be very helpful to you now, and you find comfort in knowing they approve and support your intentions. In a personal relationship, you might feel more dedicated and devoted to your partner. You can easily focus on your mate's emotional needs and desires and are happily obliged to set aside time for domestic relations.

Leo:

Increased awareness of the needs of others and a greater willingness to give of yourself is emphasized at this time. Cooperation with others on charitable works is highlighted. You are likely to find yourself involved with others in an activity designed to benefit some needy group of people, or you engage in a goodwill activity such as making improvements in degenerated neighborhoods or other neglected areas in your community. Take advantage of opportunities to share with others in noble and charitable causes. Although the opportunity may present itself, you may turn it down. Also, if you have had an idea for helping some neglected or needy situation in your community but have not been sure how or when to approach the issue, now is the time when your efforts will be met with interest and support.

Virgo:

Domestic and caretaking duties can interfere with some of your personal plans. You experience conflict between your desire to give in to the needs and concerns of others and your urge to spread your wings with daring independence. While taking a risk in pursuing your own self-interests may feel exhilarating to you at this time, family members will suffer from the lack of nurturing and emotional connection with you. Arguments and temporary separations can occur from the level of stress felt in the home environment. In the workplace, this can manifest as your overtaxing your system with too many projects, lack of tact, or your appearing nervous and restless due to your desire to look into new fields of employment. Sudden shifts or changes in departments may require you to adjust to new conditions. While this influence is only temporary, changes that occur may have the effect of shocking you into more awareness of a need to become self-sufficient.

Libra:

You find it stressful to balance needs for freedom and independence with needs for love and intimate companionship. You really behave quite oddly or aloof right now which will put others off considerably thus affording you the space you need, but at a cost. You are also attracted to the exotic, offbeat, unusual, or bizarre at this time. People or things which might offend your senses at other times now arouse your appreciation and interest. This will not be a boring time if you can help it! But it is apt to be a tense time if you are in a close, bonded relationship.

Scorpio:

An urge to decorate and beautify your home surroundings is one way this time period can manifest. Your inner creative and artistic faculties are combined with acute perceptual and visual sense so you are capable of blending imaginative colors and hues to produce beauty. On another level, your most cherished partnerships can solidify and strengthen on a spiritual and transcendental level. You are attracted to new relationships which offer nonphysical expressions of love, instead of pure sensual or sexual declarations. In any case, you desire to instill peace and serenity into your personal relations and are apt to avoid confrontations with others, if possible. This time is filled with stimulating discussions about controversial topics, unusual or offbeat ideas, or "crazy" schemes. The tempo of your life increases and may leave you feeling frazzled. Because you are quite restless, you may do or say things in haste that you will regret later.

Sagittarius:

This is a time when inner growth and healing can take place. Balance, resolution, and cooperation should be strived for in your personal relationships. You may gain a different perspective or take a new look at a situation or person that has hurt and troubled you in the past. An emotional encounter can be heart-warming and offer you valuable insights. In both your private and professional life, you have a keen sense of your individuality and of the direction you want to go. Other people will be drawn to your confident or unique approaches and some may even be willing to give your ideas a try.

Capricorn:

Taking care of others now seems like a burden. Unreasonable demands of your time and energy leave you feeling somewhat like a pushover. Your flexibility will be tested now as domestic matters become pressure-packed. You may have to deal with criticism regarding the way you handle your obligations and domestic responsibilities. Your loyalties can be divided between your children and spouse, one or the other getting more of your attention at this time. Before you can spend time with your own independent pursuits, you may be tied down to fulfilling your duties at home.

Aquarius:

Care must be taken to keep fairness and peace in a close intimate partnership or marriage. The tastes, values, attitudes, and reactions between you and a mate can pose problems and frustrations in your relationship now. Either you or your partner may be competing with each other in some subtle manner. Barriers to romantic or wedded bliss need to be removed through resolution, negotiation, and compromise at this time. A new love relationship may appear to lack staying power or suffer interruptions and obstacles to further growth and commitment.

Pisces:

You may project your enthusiasm on work and career goals at this time. You could feel an eagerness to reach top performance in working toward any personal goals or business assignments that you are dedicated to carrying out. If you are gainfully employed, you can effectively sharpen your intellectual skills, as well as bring out your inner creativity in all of your work endeavors and tasks. In your domestic life, the spotlight is on promoting your own self-interests, amusements and pleasures. However, the hard work and commitment you are applying toward your job requirements may take precedence over any leisure activities you would enjoy with your mate or family at the moment.

Deborah Browning,

....Stay tuned!....