Spring 2018

SPRING BREAK

Spring Events Calendar

How to talk to your kids about drugs

Sooke School District Update

It’s time to set those spring goals Spring is on the way and it’s time for a new approach on how to spend more time with the family and take advantage of all that the West Shore offers. Over the spring your family won’t be able to do everything, so make a spring bucket list for family time to make sure you get out and about. The choices are never-ending. But if you’re looking for some ideas, one of the West Shore’s newest additions, I Want to Be Drop In Play Centre, is an indoor play centre where kids and adults can enjoy a mud kitchen, water tables, role play zones, sensory room and so much more. Feel the thrill of an outdoor playground high in the trees with WildPlay, or

Michelle Cabana is the publisher of the Goldstream News Gazette. simply walk the Galloping Goose Trail, Thetis Lake, Esquimalt Lagoon or visit one of our many playgrounds located throughout the West Shore.

When you break down your goal of more family time into easy steps, then it becomes much more likely to happen. It might mean having a family reading night once a week or a game night once a month, visiting a new playground every month, going to the museum or Butterfly Gardens every two months, or planning a Saturday outing once a week or once a month, or even a two-day getaway once a quarter. Some families have so many commitments, they might have to be even more specific to be successful – for instance, game night on the first Friday of every month, no exceptions! I’ve been thinking about how to spend more time with my family this year. Keira is

growing up so quickly and I rarely see my nieces and nephews anymore. One of my goals this spring is to plan more mom play dates with her. Over the next month, my daughter and I will have a play day every Sunday, no exceptions. A walk down the Galloping Goose and a special lunch date, then we will visit one West Shore Park that we have not been to before, and finish with an activity of her choice. We’ll pencil in days on the calendar for other adventures and I’m also making my bucket list for a few other goals I have in mind for spring, and by summer I’ll be looking back with a smile. – Michelle Cabana

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Publisher Michelle Cabana publisher@goldstreamgazette.com Editor Katherine Engqvist editor@goldstreamgazette.com Reporters Kendra Wong Lindsey Horsting

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Spring Colouring Contest

Colour & Win! Prizes Prizes awarded as listed in each age category

Ages 3-5 $25 Gift Basket Ages 6-8 $50 Gift Basket Ages 9-12 $75 Gift Basket

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Prizes awarded as listed in each age category! Be sure to include your name, age, address and phone number on your entry! 1. Contest open to children ages 3-12. Only one picture may be submitted by each child. 2. Pictures may be colored using crayons, markers or colored pencils. One winner from each age group (3-5, 6-8 and 9-12) will be awarded prizes. Decision of judges are final. 3. All submissions become property of The Market on Millstream and Goldstream News Gazette and may be published by Goldstream News Gazette in print and online. 4. All entries must be received by 5 p.m. on March 15th 2018 hand-delivered to The Market on Millstream locations listed on entry form 5. Winners will be notified by phone by March 15th, 2018.

SD62: the fastest growing school district in the province Families attract more families says superintendent Kendra Wong News Gazette staff

With the population of the West Shore booming, it’s no surprise that more families and school-aged children are moving into local neighbourhoods. It’s a boom the Sooke School District, the fastest growing school district in the province, is having to deal with and it’s showing no signs of slowing down. In 2017, there were more than 340 new students who enrolled with the district. “One of the things we noticed is families attract other families into communities,” said school district superintendent Jim Cambridge. In recent years, the district has added a number of portables to accomodate the growing number of students, as well as smaller classroom sizes as mandated in the restored teacher contract language in B.C. In response, the provincial government announced late last year it would be contributing $23.3 million towards the purchase of a 6.5 hectare (16 acre) site in Langford for the district to build an elementary and middle school. The district’s priority in the coming years will be to

The Sooke School District saw roughly 340 new students this year. (ISTOCK PHOTO) build a middle school on the site, located in the Westhills community at the corner of West Shore Parkway and Constellation Avenue to help ease the pressures at both Dunsmuir and Spencer middle schools, where there are 13 and seven portables respectively serving as classrooms for students. Following the construction of a middle school, the district also hopes to build an elementary school on the site to address the shortage of kindergarten to Grade 5 spaces that has been brought on by an influx of young families to the Royal Bay Secondary school catchment area. Once complete, the middle school will accommodate roughly 700 students and

the elementary school will accommodate about 250 to 300. “This will knock off about 20 to 25 portables once the project is complete,” said Ravi Parmar, chair of the district’s board of education, adding while funding is still needed to build the schools, he’s hopeful the district will break ground sometime this year. Another factor in the growing number of students is the school district’s French immersion programs. The district has six schools that offer the program, with John Stubbs solely hosting French immersion students. That translates to roughly 75 French immersion teachers currently being employed by the district.

Cambridge estimated that number grows about five per cent every year and has grown about 25 per cent in the last five years. To make sure they have enough teachers and don’t come up short at any point in the year, Cambridge said the district has been actively recruiting and regularly updates its on-call pool. While there was a time when they did interviews once or twice a year for on-call teachers, now, he said, “we do them virtually every week.” The Sooke School District, serves approximately 10,000 students including those in Sooke, Port Renfrew, the Highlands, Metchosin, Colwood and Langford. For more information visit sd62.bc.ca. 5

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Talking to your kids about drugs starts with knowing who they are

Open communication doesn’t mean there is permission to use drugs Lindsey Horsting News Gazette staff

The legalization of marijuana on the horizon leads to questions about impaired driving. Asking your kids about drugs can be a tricky subject and is not something that human beings in general feel very comfortable doing, according to South Island program co-ordinator for Discovery, Island Health, Reg Fleming. Fleming has experience working and talking with youth ages 12 to 19 about drug use. Social, cultural and environmental factors also play into drug use. Fleming said people aren’t taught how to properly calm down and communicate without taking on other people’s “stuff” in which people can turn to drugs as a crutch. “How do we stay connected to others in intense situations or serious problems without losing ourselves,is what we don’t learn, but need to,” Fleming said. Some parents may have fears that if they talk to their kids about drugs, it gives the child permission to do it. A good relationship with your child is key before you jump into these types of conversations. He used the anaolgy of going on a first date with someone you’ve never met. You don’t start with the hard stuff, like past failed relationships or difficulties you’ve been through in your

If parents and kids haven’t touched on the subject, start with talking about the child’s interest. (ISTOCK PHOTO) life. You keep it light, ask them about hobbies, interests and what they do for fun. Similarly with children, build the relationship. Fleming said the antidote for people using drugs, whether that be recreationally or otherwise, is human connection. People who are loved, and come from a great home-life, can handle challenges in life without turning to drug use. Ask the child what they like about the music they listen to, or their favorite artist or sports team. Ensure these questions are asked with a genuine interest in learning more about your child. This re-establishes trust, he said. Fleming uses a technique when talking to kids about drug use (if they use drugs) by asking them what they

like about it, and when you come from a place of understanding you can ask the tougher question if there are times the child doesn’t like to use the drug and why. He points out that it’s not just what you say, it’s how you say it and the tone of your voice that can make or break these conversations. If at any point the child doesn’t want to answer a question, don’t give up asking them altogether, even though they may have brushed you off, they do know you care. Asking your child “What do you think about all these marijuana shops showing up?” or “Would you smoke pot?” are good questions to create a discussion. Fleming recommends parents and children research drugs together, find multi-

ple, reputable sources, and have a conversation. This helps put fear about drugs into perspective. In the case of marijuana, understand the reasons why it is being legalized. The Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction and the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, from the University of Victoria are great places to start Fleming said. “Say no to drugs” is not an effective strategy for encouraging people not to use drugs, as seen under Ronald and Nancy Reagan’s attempts to clean up drug use, which caused the war on drugs, he said. If conversations don’t work, there is great concern and someone is in need of help, the Discovery Line is available 250-519-5313. 7

Add these must-reads to your list Check out these page-turning recommendations from local librarians

West Shore residents are big readers and big library users. In fact, Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) members borrowed the highest number of items, per capita, in the country as measured by the Canadian Urban Libraries Council. If you’re looking for some suggestions to add to your reading list, here are the top 10 most borrowed books in 2017 from all 11 GVPL branches. Two Canadians made the top 10 list. Madeleine Thien’s Do Not Say We Have Nothing, winner of the Scotiabank Giller Prize and the Governor General’s Award, claimed the top spot, and mystery writer Louise Penny, closed off the list at number 10 with A Great Reckoning, the latest book in the Armand Gamache mystery series. Paula Hawkins’s Into the Water came in at number two, the spot she held on GVPL’s 2016 list with her book The Girl on the Train. “Hawkins was able to capitalize on the fame of her first novel and get another book out when readers were hungry for more,” said Rina Hadziev, GVPL’s co-ordinator of collections and technical services. Hadziev notes there are other familiar names on the list. “John Grisham

The Greater Victoria Public Library has lots of options for readers to check out, whether it’s a traditional book or another resource. (PEXELS PHOTO) and Michael Connelly appear twice. They both published books in the late fall of 2016 and in mid-2017, so seeing both books appear isn’t surprising. They are popular authors and they are prolific.” But as Hadziev notes, “our community loves a good mystery,” as mysteries and thrillers continue to dominate the list. GVPL’s Most Borrowed Books of 2017 • Do Not Say We Have Nothing by Madeleine Thien • Into the Water by Paula Hawkins • The Whistler by John Grisham • Camino Island by John Grisham

• Night School by Lee Child • The Late Show by Michael Connelly • The Wrong Side of Goodbye by Michael Connelly • The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware • The Fix by David Baldacci • A Great Reckoning by Louise Penny Are you adventurous, creative, curious or an epicurean? GVPL has personalized reading lists for all interests. Take the library’s quiz at gvpl.ca/yourbrain, then enjoy recommendations to read, watch, listen and learn. – Jessica Woollard is a communications officer with the Greater Victoria Public Library

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Tips to encourage kids to eat healthy Making meals colourful, creating a presentation will encourage kids to get the nutrition they need

Colourful fruit skewers are a great way to get kids to eat fruit, says Shannon Van Ember, a nutritionist and personal trainer with West Shore Parks and Recreation.

Kendra Wong News Gazette staff

Let’s face it – getting kids to eat healthy is hard. Getting them to eat their vegetables or take that one last bite at the dinner table can sometimes be a challenge for all. But how to you get them to eat healthy? Where do you start? Shannon Van Ember, a nutritionist and personal trainer with West Shore Parks and Recreation, said modelling good eating habits as a parent has proven to have a significant impact on a child’s eating behaviours. “Studies have shown if a parent or sibling enjoys a particular food, the child will be more likely to enjoy it as well,” she said. “Having at least one sit down meal per day helps model healthy eating habits and share quality time with your family.” In addition to modelling good eating habits, Van Ember said there are a number of ways to get kids to eat their fruits and veggies. She suggested introducing new foods gradually and allowing your child to pick the foods that go in the cart at the grocery store. This allows them to be involved in picking their foods and establishes healthy choices and good habits for the future. Making meals colourful and creating a presentation will also encourage kids to get the nutrition they need. “For example, we made jack-o-lanterns out of bell peppers and cut up veggies to put inside them. Visually appealing food can help create interest,” Van Ember said. “Providing fun, visually appealing and colourful food will help your child take an interest in

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

trying new foods.” She also suggested avoiding food to control behaviour. While rewarding children with treats may temporarily correct behaviours, it is not recommended to use food as a punishment or reward, such as rewarding “good behaviour” with a dessert, which may create a connection with sweet foods and approval. “Teaching your child that food is meant to nourish and feed our bodies and not something to turn to for comfort or approval is key,” she said. Here are a few recipes Van Ember suggested that are healthy and will sure to have your child asking for more. 1. Key lime pie bites - gluten free, dairy free, vegan Ingredients: - 20 pitted dates - 3/4 cup almonds -whole -3/4 cup cashews- raw -1/4 cup coconut - unsweetened -2 to 3 table spoons lime juice (based on preference and consistency) -1 lime- grated peel for top Mix altogether in food processor, roll into small balls and top with lime zest (the grated peel) refrigerate for 30 minutes. These can also be frozen and eaten later. 2. Veggie patte Gluten free, dairy free, vegan - 1 cup brown rice flour - 1 cup tahini - 1/2 cup nutritional yeast ( if vegan use the b12 and iron fortified kind) - 1/4 cup olive oil

- 1 1/4 cup hot water or veggie broth - 30 ml lemon juice - 60 ml gluten free tamari - 5 ml fresh basil - 2 ml fresh thyme - 2 to 4 cloves of garlic (minced) - 1 large potato (shredded) - 1 large onion (diced) - 2 large carrots (peeled and then shredded) Mix everything together well, add to glass pan, cook 45 minutes at 350 degrees Celsius. To make them fun you could use a cookie cutter once baked and have them in fun shapes for the kids to grab. 3. Fruit skewers The more colourful the better. Enjoy them plain or you can put plain or vanilla Greek yogurt on top of them and freeze them for a fun and colourful nutritious snack. Ingredients: - Blueberries - Pineapple - Cantaloupe - Green grapes - Red grapes - Strawberries - Honeydew melon - Skewers - Yogurt (if desired) when choosing yogurt try and go for a plain Greek one or something with a lower sugar content. You can cover the fruit skewers with yogurt and place on a tray with wax paper to freeze. 9

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TV time is valuable, don’t waste it Get cozy and check out these shows Katherine Engqvist News Gazette staff

Netflix and chill has a different meaning when you’re a parent or a caregiver and it often involves one or more of you falling asleep on the couch. But for those that like to stay up late – or catch a few moments of downtime when the kids are napping or at one of a number of activities – here are some suggestions that you may want to add to your list. For you and/or your special someone: This is us – will probably have you shedding a few tears – or bucket loads – so it’s not recommended to watch this if you’re planning on going out with your makeup intact. This series follows a couple and their triplets as they navigate their way through childhood, adulthood, and raising a family of their own. Bloodline – this drama follows the Rayburn family through all of their twisted pasts and deep, dark secrets, which eventually lead to murder. Shameless – Meet the Gallagher family: the dad’s a drunk, mom split years ago, and the eldest daughter is trying to keep a roof over the heads of an increasing number of kids. This comedy looks at just how real life can be. Queen of the South – if you like powerful women, you’ll enjoy this drama as Teresa, a money changer in Mexico, falls for a drug dealer and winds up in Dallas on her way to becoming a drug kingpin. The Crown – For those that love Downton Abbey, this history-based series won’t disappoint. Follow a young Princess Elizabeth as she marries Prince Philip and Winston Churchill is elected prime minister for a second time. The Good Place – follow Eleanor

Whatever device you’re watching from, at least one of these Netflix suggestions is sure to have you glued to the screen. (PEXELS PHOTO) after she dies, gets mistaken for someone else and winds up in an afterlife paradise reserved only for the most ethical people in this twisted comedy. Superheroes are making a comeback on the silver screen and the one in your home. Some popular options now streaming on Netflix include Supergirl, Gotham, Dardevil, and Punisher. For the undead lovers: iZombie (a former medical student, now zombie as she tries to regain her humanity by eating brains and solving crimes), Z Nation (a team embarks on a mission to transport the man that survived a deadly zombie virus in hopes of finding a vaccine), and of course The Walking Dead (in the wake of a zombie apocalypse survivors hold onto humanity by banding together for survival) are popular choices if you haven’t already seen them or want to watch them again. Editor’s choices: This one is not for children simply based on the excessive amount of foul language but if you can get past that, The Ranch is a funny series that follows a ranching family through their everyday struggles. It also features a number of cast mem-

bers from That ’70s Show. For content your young adult may enjoy, Everything Sucks! is now streaming. Season one features 10 episodes that follows two groups of high school misfits – an A/V club and a drama club – who collide in 1996 Oregon. A Netflix original, Greenhouse Academy features two teen siblings as they enter an elite boarding school where they find romance, mystery and of course, teenage rivalry. And if you loved watching Full House while growing up, you’ll get a kick out of watching Fuller House with your own kids. No list would be complete without some suggestions for the younger audience so if you’ve had enough of Paw Patrol, try DreamWorks’ Troll Hunters (a Netflix original), Minions, Free Rein, Boss Baby (another Netflix original), Johnny Test, or a remake of an old classic, Richie Rich. Please note not all Netflix content is available in all regions and you may not be able to access some of these suggestions. Viewer discretion is advised as some titles may not be suitable for all audiences. 11

A survival guide for the Sandwich Generation Support on how to deal with caring for children, aging parents and adult children Lindsey Horsting News Gazette staff

Do you or will you belong to the ‘Sandwich Generation?’ The Sandwich Generation is made up of middle-aged families, 35 to 54 years old, who provide support to their children and care for aging parents or adult siblings while balancing a career. Counselling and parenting coach, Lindsay Trowell, says that it is difficult to juggle the endless list of tasks such as school projects, doctors appointments, and long work days. The key to keeping it all together and not becoming overwhelmed is to acknowledge the good that happens each day, even if you really have to reach for it – celebrate it, she says. Trowell says it’s important to celebrate out loud, verbally, with your family. As a caregiver to potentially two generations, work-life balance can engulf families. Stress and compassion fatigue can cause disruptions in marriages, child attachment, financial stability and employment, which can lead to compromised care, increased chances of depression and physical illness. To keep everything running smoothly, recovery from the challenges needs to be fast to be able to keep up with daily life. In other 12

The key to successfully balancing work and life as the Sandwich Generation is to acknowledge the good in everything and say it. (ISTOCK PHOTO)

words, resilience is important, and it can be built personally and through the individual’s community, she says. Researching and getting help from community supports already in place, is a good starting point. Trowell recommends that families connect with social workers or counsellors within the hospital system, family doctors, or veteran’s affairs, to develop current needs assessments and future planning measures. Looking at different transportation methods, such as the HandyDART, to provide those cared for, independence and autonomy is another way to use constructs in place to a caregiver’s advantage. Meeting other families through recreational program offered by local centres, church groups or other meetups to gain a network

of friends, can be a good way to build a community, she says. Within these communities, caregiver families may meet others going through the same things and can help one another out. Trowell says there are ways employers can help Sandwich Generation employees. Providing benefits with mental health options such as registered clinical counsellors, and registered therapeutic counsellors can make a big difference. Having limitations on the types of services available, can make finding the right fit difficult, and possible lengthy waitlists for services. Flexibility with work hours can really make it for such families and help increase employee productivity. For example, allowing an employee to come in an hour early and leave an hour early. Friends, neighbours or

family members can help develop a system of mutual aid: taking the children out for afternoon fun, ride share to practices or offer a game of cards to grandpa. Delegate within your family. She says to let the kids help out more by doing dishes or folding laundry, and be consistent with chores. Scheduling and planning with the family on how to assign tasks is important, and it’s important that the lists are visual. A self-proclaimed Type A, Trowell says it’s important to let go of perfectionism and be flexible. She says the learning curve is big, but to remember that it’s not the end of the world if there is a mountain of laundry on your couch for a few days. If it is financially possible, hiring housekeeping, landscaping or childcare can take a great deal of pressure off the caregiver. Practicing good self-care and protecting your “me” time, whatever that may be, is important because if the caregiver isn’t feeling their best, they will not be able to perform their best. Setting aside time for friendships and their spouse is also important, these can be pillars in your community and the stronger they are, they stronger the building is. Take advantage of the beautiful landscapes that the West Shore has to offer and choose to get outdoors or do something that feeds the soul, she says. Most of all, notice the good. Appreciate the good, even on the toughest days when it is hard to find, then celebrate it out loud.

Using art to help with Alzheimer’s Arts and Alzheimer’s program involves art project, music Kendra Wong News Gazette staff

Sally Hannah looks forward to Thursdays. It’s the day Hannah hops into her car and drives from her home in Colwood to the Silver Threads Senior Centre on Richmond Road in Victoria to volunteer with the Arts and Alzheimer’s program. The program, hosted by We Rage We Weep Alzheimer Foundation, runs once a week in Victoria and Sidney for residents around with the Capital Region with Alzheimer’s or dementia, particularly those who are still cared for at home by family or friends. As part of the two-hour program, participants begin with an art project, where they paint, create collages or We Rage We Weep Alzheimer Foundation’s Arts and Alzheimer’s program runs once a week experiment with other mediums. The in Victoria and Sidney for residents around the Capital Region with Alzheimer’s or dementia, second hour is led by a musician who particularly those who are still cared for at home by family or friends. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO) plays songs and gets participants to sing, hum, or dance along, depending as being depressing, but it’s not. We do ful when so many parts of their world on their range of movement. Refresh- have a lot of laughs. It’s so rewarding are shrinking.” to help people with their art project.” ments are also provided. It also allows people with AlzheiThe program began as a pilot proj- mer’s or dementia to build friendship Volunteers, such as Hannah, help with the art projects and serve re- ect in Oak Bay in 2011, and has since with others in the program. freshments. In the expanded and includes about Arts and Alzheimer’s takes place “People don’t past, art project eight to 10 participants every in Victoria on Thursday at 11 a.m. have included cre- realize how much fun week at each session. at the Silver Threads Senior Centre “It’s a different way of ex- (2340 Richmond Rd.) and in Sidney ating floral arrange- we have. It’s really ments, Christmas pressing themselves. Even on Wednesday at 1 p.m. at the Shoral ornaments, Valen- not a depressing if they’ve lost their speech Centre (10030 Resthaven Dr.) tine’s Day cards and program ... We do abilities, oftentimes people For more information about the propainting bird houses. have a lot of laughs. can still do the art and even gram visit werageweweep.com. “I just love to work sometimes still access the words with the elderly. It’s It’s so rewarding to Craving Something Nutritious? really rewarding to help people with their to their favourite Home Delivered Meals songs,” said Marhelp people,” said art project. ” 3 Course Dinner Hannah, who has jorie Moulton, ex* volunteered with ecutive director and – Sally Hannah, for only the program for the founder of the We volunteer call toll free past eight years and Rage We Weep Alzis involved with the Juan de Fuca Arts heimer Foundation. 1-888-838-1888 “It gives them that opporGuild. “People don’t realize how much fun tunity to express themselves BETTER MEALS Serving Our Communities Since 1993 we have. It’s really not a depressing and engage in something www.bettermeals.com program. People would think about it that’s positive and meaning-

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Quiz: What’s your brain type? Are you adventurous, creative, curious? Take this quiz to discover what kind of mind you have, then enjoy reading recommendations for kids and teens from Greater Victoria Public Library’s collections services librarians. For more recommendations for all ages, go to gvpl.ca/yourbrain. 1. Your idea day would be: a. Working toward a goal, planning an exotic holiday, spending time outdoors b. Taking an art class, honing your craft, getting lost in thought c. Reading a non-fiction book, trying something new, working on a passion project d. Helping a friend, spending time with a pet, enjoying the view e. Learning about a new friend, setting a personal goal, having a delicious meal with a breathtaking view 2. Choose your ideal literary dinner guest: a. Peter Pan b. Anne of Green Gables c. Nancy Drew d. The Lorax e. Winnie the Pooh 3. What clichéd expression are you most likely to use? a. Back in the saddle b. Back to the drawing board c. Don’t judge a book by its cover d. Bent out of shape e. Easy as pie 4. What’s your favourite Dr. Seuss quote? a. “You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way!”

b. “Why fit in when you were born to stand out?” c. “Think and wonder, wonder and think.” d. “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” e. “I would not like them here or there. I would not like them anywhere. I do not like green eggs and ham. I do not like them Sam I Am.” 5. If you were an animal, which would you be? a. Mountain goat b. Beluga c. Cat d. Elephant e. Panda 6. What superpower do you wish you had? a. Fly b. Make anything out of thin air c. Time travel d. Heal yourself and others e. Make magical potions 7. Which historical person would you like to grab a coffee with? a. Amelia Earhart b. Leonardo da Vinci c. Albert Einstein d. Mahatma Ghandi e. Julia Child 8. How would your friends describe you? a. Is a leader; accepts challenges; has wanderlust b. Generates lots of ideas; expresses self; sees connections between seemingly unrelated things c. Asks questions; suggests unconventional solutions; is willing to be wrong d. Leads an active lifestyle; is community oriented; is mindful to self and others e. Has drive, passion and willpower

9. Choose your socks. a. Balloon socks b. Rainbow and watermelon socks c. Space socks d. Orca socks e. Egg socks Mostly As: Adventurous Mind There’s no mountain too tall, no ocean too deep, no cloud out of reach. You grab life by the handlebars and ride the trail with vigor and skillfulness — even through the bumps and rough patches. In fact, you LOVE the bumps and rough patches; they make you feel alive, fuel your hunt for interesting challenges, give rise to opportunities to learn off the beaten path. You are great at setting lofty goals, and also at achieving them. You’ll say yes to surfing in Tofino, trying grasshoppers in Chiang Mai and riding a mechanical bull in Dallas. You are not thrown when things don’t go according to plan; learning through experimentation is one of your strengths. To you, mishaps mark the chance to learn something in an unexpected way. Recommended Reads: Kids: The Adventurer’s Guide to Successful Escapes by Wade Albert White The Wee Free Men: A Story of Discworld by Terry Pratchett Teens: I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore And Then You’re Dead by Cody Cassidy Recommended E-Resource*: Take a chance on a new book with NoveList, which makes

reading recommendations based on previous books and authors you’ve enjoyed. Mostly Bs: Creative Mind You express yourself best when you create, whether planting dahlias or renovating your kitchen, photographing your hamster or playing electric guitar. You don’t follow a linear thinking process; you embrace happy mistakes; and you’re known for solving problems with unconventional — but effective— approaches. Your ideas have wow factor. They make people stop and think and say “I never thought of it that way.” You love to laugh, live to love (be it golden retrievers, the Canucks or the colour of avocado), and think there’s no better way to learn than learning through play. Recommended Reads: Kids: Frindle by Andrew Clements Emily of New Moon by L.M. Montgomery Teens: Literally by Lucy Keating Emily of New Moon by L. M. Montgomery Recommended E-Resource*: Embrace indie creativity and stream movies through InstantFlix, which features a wide collection of films from festivals around the world including Sundance and Cannes.

Find the rest of the answers on page 20 15

Answers from page 10

Are You a Bit of a Shutterbug? We would LOVE to share your PHOTOS If you have a photo you’d like to share, please send it to

editor@goldstreamgazette.com

For more ticket info please visit victoriashamrocks.com 16

Westshore Basketball encourages all levels A number of new and continuous programs offered Kendra Wong News Gazette staff

Know a future Michael Jordan or Steve Nash in the making? Then the Westshore Basketball Association is the program for them. This spring, the association is offering a number of new programs and continuing favourites designed to get kids of all ages interested and shooting hoops at both the recreational and high school level. “It’s a great community-driven inclusive organizations where we turn kids who have any interest in basketball into their individual highest level, including division champions and win-

The Westshore Basketball Association offers a number of new and continuous programs to help kids of all ages improve their basketball skills. (BREAKWATER PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO) ning at the local high school level,” said Brad Lidstone, who is the co-director of the association, alongside Curt Spaven. For those who want to try their hand at the popular sport, the association is offering a free basketball skills academy to grade 4 and 5 students in the Sooke School District, geared towards getting kids started young with fundamental skills as they begin to play

for school teams. Also new year this, the association is offering a threeon-three league at Belmont High School. The league, which encourages more court time for kids, is split into grade 4 to 5, grade 6 to 7 and grade 8 to 9 divisions. Teams consist of five players and games are 10 minutes long or until one team reaches 21 points (which ever comes first), with two–minute intermis-

sions between games. Kids can join as an individual and be placed on a team, or can register as a group with friends. In addition to the new programs, Westshore Basketball has a number of continuing favourites on the docket. From March 26 to 29, the fifth annual Westshore Basketball spring skills camps returns to Belmont, with both half- and full-day options. Activities include skill instruction and guest coaches from the University of Victoria and Camosun College. For kids a bit younger in age, there’s the Westshore Rain program with two levels: learn to play 1 and learn to play 2. Programs are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at John Stubbs school for kids ages five to eight. Hoops are also adjusted and smaller basketballs are provided. For more information or to register visit westshorebasketball.com.

Are you ready for lacrosse season to get underway? Registration is open until March 31 Registration for Juan de Fuca lacrosse teams is open until March 31. There are tryouts for A and B teams from novice to midget and if a child misses the tryout period before the March 31 cutoff, players will still be placed on a team. Children born in 2013 and earlier are eligible to register. JDF lacrosse is hosting a Bring a Buddy Day in which

children born between 2010 and 2013, (mini tyke and tyke age group) who have never played lacrosse can try it out. The event takes place at the JDF box, located behind The Q Centre, on March 4 and 11 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bring a Buddy Day has onsite registration and requires children to bring their own gear (helmet, gloves and a stick). Hockey helmets and gloves can be used. Registration can be done online at jdflacrosse.com and questions can be sent to Evelyn, the JDF Registrar, at jdfreg2015@gmail.com.

Juan de Fuca Whalers novice A2 player Cohen Lacey absorbs a hit from a Victoria-Esquimalt player during the gold medal game at the Travis Bateman Memorial Novice Lacrosse Tournament at the Juan de Fuca Arena. (PHOTO CONTRIBUTED) 17

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Sooke School District Update

The importance of intimacy ‘Sex is just the icing on the cake’ says local business owner Katherine Engqvist News Gazette staff

Intimacy is a crucial component to a healthy relationship but it’s something that’s easily overlooked. “What’s more important than sex is that love and connection. Sex is just the icing on the cake,” said Amanda Stacey, owner and operator of the Love Den in Langford. “Cuddling, caressing, kissing – the important thing is that.” She explained everyone has ups and downs in their love lives, whether that’s due to the way people are functioning or other circumstances such as child birth and raising kids. But if an intimate relationship isn’t just built around sex and also includes those little gestures such as just cuddling when one partner isn’t in the mood, it goes a long way in building a stable foundation. It also helps partners connect on an emotional level, which is what Stacey noted can be holding a lot of women back. “It’s that love and connection that makes our sex lives so good.” She noted that can be why one-night-stands often end in disappointment or negative feelings. “If the orgasm was not the most important thing we would not have those feelings of disappointment.” Unfortunately, with everything else going on day-to-

Amanda Stacey, the owner and operator of the Love Den in Langford, offers some advice. (PHOTO CONTRIBUTED) day, she noted a lot of times couples don’t take the time they need for themselves. It’s more of an “okay, we have five minutes and that’s what sex is … We don’t have a lot of time to even think about sex.” But there has to be balance, Stacey noted sex shouldn’t be really important to one partner and not the other because it can create an unhealthy dynamic. When there is that big difference in sex drive, one partner can resent the other and can become angry and demanding. The other can often feel like they’re only wanted for sex and are not getting the emotional support they need. “We have a drive as human beings to be sexual … [but] there’s a dark side to our sex drive. It’s an extremely complicated topic.” She noted communication between partners is key and also understanding that

some past events or traumas can also have a huge impact. “Years ago I wanted to become a counsellor, but more specifically a sexual health counsellor. Unfortunately, life took me into many different directions so I was unable to further my formal education,” Stacey said. “Yet oddly enough I ended up owning and running a retail store that promotes sexual health and exploration.” Having done this job for more than 15 years, she noted she has yet to tire of the experience. “It almost feels like a form of counselling … I’ve had people hug me and cry,” she explained. “It really makes me feel good to be doing this – not just selling dildos but helping people.” And over the years, she noted they’ve helped a lot of people that have come into the shop. “I had a lady come in

about a year ago … we ended up talking and she had never had a orgasm and she was in her 80s.” And she wasn’t the only one, Stacey noted the staff at the shop also helped a man in a wheelchair orgasm as well. But there’s a stigma that can go along with working in the business and Stacey said she and her staff are treated differently. “People judge us in a way I find really unfair … I’ve had people treat us like we’re going to bring down the neighbourhood,” she said. There’s also some inappropriate assumptions made about her and her staff and she noted some people just assume they’re sexual deviants. “My husband and I have been together for more than 30 years … We’re the most vanilla people you could ever meet,” she said as she shook her head. “My kids both worked here.” But sex is a subject that can be taboo in some circles, especially when it comes to how to speak to your children about it. “You just need to answer them truthfully,” she noted. “I’ve had people come in here and get books for their 12-year-old daughters. She added she’s also had mothers come in to get their daughter a vibrator. “I’ve even had five generations of women in here at once … It’s nice to see when people are open with their kids.” While it’s a way of life and an important part of relationships, Stacey noted “it’s a part of our health – mentally too.” 19

Is your mind curious, healthy or hungry? Continued from 15 Mostly Cs: Curious Mind Why do cows moo? What’s under that rock? Why do identical twins have different fingerprints? Questions are your m.o. You turn over every leaf you encounter; you wonder how to reach the stars; and you marvel at science and philosophy and how almond milk is made. Your curiosity makes you a go-getter. You enjoy the journey of searching for answers, and you welcome the unknown, which presents ever more phenomena for you to explore. Your curious mind means you never stop learning; there’s always something around the corner to spark your interest, illuminate your thinking, and change your mind — and you can’t wait to see what’s next. Recommended Reads: Kids: Olga and the Smelly Thing From Nowhere by Elise Gravel Book Scavenger by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman Teens: Heartless by Marissa Meyer One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus Recommended E-Resource*: Follow your curiosity and log in to Lynda.com. You can take thousands of online courses and watch videos related to photography, travel, lead20

ership, business and more. Mostly Ds: Healthy Mind To your way of thinking, a healthy mind and body means a healthy world. You believe every living being plays a role in creating wellness for each other, and you focus your energies on achieving your best self to benefit the world around you. Concern for humanity, animals and the environment are dear to your heart. You thirst for knowledge on how you can help make the world a better place; you see the best in others and encourage them to reach their potential; and you are devoted to healthy, clean and mindful living. Your commitment to balance and respect for others means you are keen to discover new ways to live in harmony and take care of one another. Recommended Reads: Kids: Restart by Gordon Korman Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper Teens: All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven One by Sarah Crossnan Recommended E-Resource*: Dive

into articles all about the environment with GreenFILE. Get the facts about green living, environmentalism, conservation and more. Mostly Es: Hungry Mind Your appetite for life means you seek out experiences that increase joy, challenge your thinking and increase your appreciation for living. Hungry for all life has to offer, you take in new information by the plateful and thrive on trying to make sense of it. You appreciate the delectable things in life — travel to exotic locales, late-night conversations by the fire, gourmet donuts — and have an insatiable thirst for the extravagant and extraordinary. You foster strong friendships fueled by shared passions, tantalizing secrets and joie de vivre. You can be counted on to laugh a lot, achieve your goals and indulge in all life’s treasures. Recommended Reads: Kids: This Book is Not Good for You by Pseudonymous Bosch All Four Stars by Tara Dairman Teens: North of Happy by Adi Alsaid Mortal Engines by Philip Reeve Recommended E-Resource*: You’ll eat up the information and entertainment available through RBdigital Magazines, which has hundreds of digital magazines. *Log in with your GVPL library card number and password at gvpl.ca.

Dolphins Resort: A majestic getaway Near Campbell River, this oceanfront resort is perfect for staycations Immersed in nature, with comfort in mind, head up Island to unwind while breathing in fresh ocean air and enjoy views of Discovery Passage and the Coastal Mountain Range. Surrounded by lush gardens, towering trees and exceptional amenities, this resort will leave you feeling like you’ve had a world-class vacation, without even having to leave the Island. Located minutes from Campbell River, The Dolphins Resort and Anglers Dining is the perfect spot for a romantic weekend, a few days away or just a chance to retreat for a little rest and relaxation. Renowned for its old fashioned charm and year round fun, Dolphins Resort specializes in fishing adventures, breathtaking destination weddings and group gatherings of all kinds. Before becoming this world class resort, Dolphins got its start back in the late 1940s as a tea house. Founded by Lucy Russell, it was named after The Dolphin Tea House in Vancouver. With its oceanfront location, it was a natural progression to fishing resort and throughout the years it has been known for having the most experienced guides. But since its creation, Dolphins Resort has always been a family owned and operated business with the current owner started as a fishing guide back in the 1970s. That passion led him to take over ownership of the resort in 1985 and continues to allow the resort to offer full service fishing experiences for its guest. If fishing isn’t for you – and even if it is – there are plenty of other adventures to take part in depending on the season. These arrange from the Elk Falls suspension bridge, whale watching, grizzly viewings, whales and

The Dolphins Resort and Anglers Dinning is a perfect spot to unwind with loved ones. (PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED)

wildlife safaris, salmon snorkeling and heli-tours. If you’re looking for something at a little slower pace, there’s also bike rentals available. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner in front of the fire or gourmet west coast dining at Anglers, Dolphins has you covered with genuine family hospitality. Anglers is open year-round and offers a casual, yet intimate dining experience. The menu features gluten free and vegetarian options as well as daily specials that are made with a variety of fresh, seasonal and sustainable items that are smoked and made in house with natural ingredients. Anglers is open for breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. on weekdays and until noon on weekends and holidays. It is also open starting at 5 p.m. for dinner and reservations are recommended for that sitting. With room options ranging from oceanfront and garden-view cozy cabins that feature amenities such as private hot tubs, wood-burning fireplaces, and fully equipped kitchens, there’s something for everyone. Some

options are even pet friendly. Prices range from $169 in the winter months up to $350 in the summer months for studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom cabins. Oceanfront Sea Ridge Cabins (1,800 square feet) – three bedrooms/three baths – starts at $400 in the winter and up to $550 in the prime summer months, priced to sleep six guests. The ultimate, executive oceanfront Discovery Lodge (5,300 sq. ft.) features four bedrooms, six bathrooms, and starts at $800 for the winter months and up to $1,000 for the summer months. It sleeps up to eight guests. 21

events Reoccurring City of Colwood branch drop off service First and third Saturday of every month Open to Colwood residents only Colwood Public Works Yard, 3300 Wishart Rd. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Metchosin Poultry Swap First and third Sunday, March through October Metchosin Municipal Grounds, 4450 Happy Valley Rd. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. CFI-Victoria monthly meeting The new Victoria chapter of the Centre for Inquiry Canada hosts a meeting on the third Wednesday of the month, everyone is welcome to attend Quality Foods boardroom, 27 Helmcken Rd. 7 p.m.

march feb 28 – march 11

Federation of Canadian Artists Spring Showcase Annual showcase by the Victoria chapter Coast Collective Art Centre, 103-318 Wale Rd. Meet the artists reception March 1, 6 to 8 p.m.

10

Highlands Music Coffee House Caleb Pike Heritage Park, 1980 Millstream Rd. 7 to 9 p.m.

10–11

Juan de Fuca 55+ Spring Craft Fair Free admission Juan de Fuca 55+ Activity Centre, 1767 Island Hwy. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

11

The Millies Live Performance and Afternoon Tea Tickets are $15 for this all ages show which includes door prizes Royal Canadian Legion 91, 761 Station Ave. 1 to 4 p.m.

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march 14 – april 1

17–19

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31

march 30 – april 1

Bloom Celebrate the return of spring with Coast Collective’s 10th annual Bloom exhibition Coast Collective Art Centre, 103-318 Wale Rd. Meet the artists reception March 17, 1 to 3 p.m. Ninth Annual Debbie Cooper Memorial Tournament This ice hockey tournament for peewee and midget level teams is dedicated to Debbie Cooper in memory of all that she was and did for Juan de Fuca Minor Hockey For more info go to jdfminorhockey. com/tournament/268 Earth Hour 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. The West Shore Lions present a fundraising dance featuring non-stop music with Kooler and SuperSauce Advance tickets are $20 or $25 at the door Royal Canadian Legion 91, 761 Station Ave. 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. Spring into Summer Craft Sale and Market Presented by the Juan de Fuca Arts and Crafts Guild Wheelchair and stroller friendly, free admission Esquimalt United Church, 500 Admirals Rd. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Good Friday Ride the Bear Bear Mountain Bike Festival For more info go to victoriabikerace.com

events 31

West Shore Lobsterfest A down home kitchen party with fresh lobster from Nova Scotia Music by the Tom Morrissey Band Royal Canadian Legion 91, 761 Station Ave. Bar opens at 5:30 p.m., dinner is at 6:30

20–22

17th Annual Easter Egg Hunt Hosted by the Kinette Club of Juan de Fuca Three age groupings for children 13 and under. Meet at the grassy area behind the library. West Shore Parks and Recreation, 1767 Island Hwy. 10 a.m.

22

april 2 7

Easter Monday View Royal Garden Club Spring Show For more info go to viewroyalgardenclub.wordpress.com or call 250-6589495 Esquimalt United Church, 500 Admirals Rd. 1 to 3 p.m.

14

Highlands Music Coffee House Caleb Pike Heritage Park, 1980 Millstream Rd. 7 to 9 p.m.

18–29

Earth Day Children’s Show: Our Fantastic Forests Explore forests through children’s eyes and imagination For more info go to coastcollective.ca Coast Collective Art Centre, 103-318 Wale Rd. Meet the artists reception April 21, 1 to 3 p.m.

20

may 9

12 12–13 21 23

Pro-D Day Swim Juan de Fuca Pool, 1767 Island Hwy. 3:30 to 5 p.m.

*Events could change or be cancelled, please check ahead

Victoria Home and Garden Show More than 280 exhibits will fill three arenas for this free three-day show For more info go to homeshowtime.com West Shore Parks and Recreation, 1767 Island Hwy. Friday 1 to 9 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Earth Day Legion Spring Craft and Garage Sale Roughly 52 tables of crafts and garage sale items, silent auctions, meat draw and snack bar Free admission and wheelchair accessible Royal Canadian Legion, 761 Station Ave. 10 a.m to 2 p.m. Learn to Fish By donation but participants must register ahead of time at westshorerecreation.ca/programs/guide All equipment and tackle is provided and parent supervision is required Glen Lake 6 to 8 p.m. Highlands Music Coffee House Caleb Pike Heritage Park, 1980 Millstream Rd. 7 to 9 p.m. HSBC Women’s 7s Rugby Tournament For more info go to worldrugby.org/ sevens-series/stage. Westhills Stadium, 1089 Langford Pkwy. Victoria Day Learn to Fish By donation but participants must register ahead of time at westshorerecreation.ca/programs/guide All equipment and tackle is provided and parent supervision is required Lake Ida Anne 6 to 8 p.m. 23

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