DRIVING IN COMMUNITY Queer Culture creating pandemic-safe events
VALLEY LIVING Looking at local people and local stories
L I F E O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H
COMOX
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C O U R T E N AY
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CUMBERLAND
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14 07 09 EDITOR ERIN HALUSCHAK erin.haluschak@comoxvalleyrecord.com As a full-time journalist at the Comox Valley Record, Erin looks forward to bringing these stories to you in a variety of different ways.
GRAPHIC DESIGN TAMMY ROBINSON tammy.robinson@blvdmag.ca An award-wining full-time graphic designer for Black Press with over 15 years experience.
16 PUBLISHER KEITH CURRIE keith.currie@comoxvalleyrecord.com As the publisher of the Comox Valley Record and Trio Magazine, Keith welcomes the opportunity to share accurate, new and feel-good stories with readers across the Valley.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR ALI RODDAM ali.roddam@blackpress.ca An experienced photographer, writer, and entrepreneur based in Black Creek.
Trio is produced by:
CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS
ADVERTISING SALES
ERIN HALUSCHAK Erin.Haluschak@comoxvalleyrecord.com
ALLISON BROWN Allison.brown@comoxvalleyrecord.com
MIKE CHOUINARD Mike.Chouinard@comoxvalleyrecord.com
KIM COOK Kim.cook@comoxvalleyrecord.com
SCOTT STANFIELD Scott.Stanfield@comoxvalleyrecord.com
PETER DIESPECKER Peter.diespecker@comoxvalleyrecord.com
TERRY FARRELL Terry.Farrell@comoxvalleyrecord.com
TRACEY LAWRENCE Tracey.lawrence@comoxvalleyrecord.com
Front cover photo by: Ali Roddam 2
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a division of
Available online: comoxvalleyrecord.com/e-editions PHONE: 1-250-338-5811 MAILING ADDRESS: 407-D Fifth Street, Courtenay V9N 1J7 Trio magazine is published quarterly by Black Press Media. The points of view or opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher of Trio. The contents of Trio magazine are protected by copyright, including the designed advertising. Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher. Trio Magazine recognizes and respectfully acknowledges that it is produced on the traditional unceded lands of the K'ómoks First Nation.
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Comox restauranteur leading the way in the military
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GETTING IN ON A GOOD ROLE
GROWING FROM THE GROUND UP
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North Island College's Elder-in-Residence educates with culture
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OBSERVATIONS ON THE ESTUARY Comox illustrator opens up the Valley to children
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SILVER SCREEN COMMUNITY Queer Culture driving up pandemic-safe events for a good cause
CHARTING NEW EDUCATION
BUILDING COMMUNITY Indigenous business create community in downtown Courtenay
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407 SQUADRON TOPS Comox crew and personnel winners at international exercise
Courtenay farmer expanding her roots in agriculture
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VALLEY LIVING Advertorial feature on local people and their stories
Valley actor growing his resume on primetime television
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38 CONTENTS
SUMMER 2021 EDITION 5
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LIFE FROM THE BOARD Finding community and more on a skateboard
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DISHING OUT HER PILOT’S WINGS B Comox restauranteur leading the way in the military BY TERRY FARRELL
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PHOTOS BY ALI RODDAM
lythe Reimer was destined to fly; little did she know she would be a Canadian trailblazer.
These days, the Comox resident spends her workdays running her restaurant, the Tidal Café, but few people know about her storied - and historic - past. Capt. Blythe Reimer was the first Canadian woman ever to pilot a CH-124 Sea King helicopter. While flying for the Canadian Armed Forces wasn’t always a dream of hers, she said it isn’t overly surprising her life choices guided her in that direction. Both her father and grandfather were military pilots, but it wasn’t until later on that Reimer followed that path. “I was always in an environment where military aviation was a part of my life,” she said. Despite that, her entire military career did not even start with flying in mind. “Me, being the rebel I am, decided to take a different path. I joined the naval reserves. I actually was on course in Esquimalt in the early days when they had just opened combat trades to women. So I became a boatsman. I was super excited that I could drive the boat.” Reimer said aviation - or the military as a whole - was not in the cards at the time. “I was going to school to be a lawyer, or maybe to work for external affairs as a translator. I have two degrees - one is in political science, and one is in languages. But I was just coming to graduate university, and I walked by the recruiting centre one day and said to myself, ‘I’m going to sign up to be a pilot.’ ” From a military career standpoint, Reimer combined the two branches as the Sea King is a twin-engined anti-submarine warfare helicopter designed for shipboard use by Canadian naval forces. The rest, as they say, is history - Canadian history. She put her flight hours in mostly at Portage la Prairie, Man., flying a CT-134 Musketeer for about three months, before spending nearly a year training in Moose Jaw, Sask., then back to Manitoba for her specialized rotary training. “From there you go for about six months of operational training, and then they send you off to your dock.
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“When I first graduated, I met my ship in Hamburg, Germany… the HMCS Nipigon. It was really neat because it was the only ship at that point that had women on it. We did a lot of NATO exercises. “But most of my time was spent doing fisheries patrol, and we did. A lot of medevacs from fishing vessels and other search and rescue stuff.” She said she never really considered her path to be of the trailblazing variety, and although she was aware that she was entering a male-dominated industry, to her it was just a matter of being the best that she could be. “It was bad enough that you are a woman at that time, doing a typically male job. You don’t want to be noticed any more than you have to be. But I was really lucky that the men who were my cohorts, my peer group, were all just very supportive, very nice. We did a lot of training together, and for me it was important to gain their trust and for them to know I was not trying to get by on ‘oh I’m a girl, I can’t do that.’ I wanted to do it… I needed to do it, just like them.” Not only was Reimer the first female pilot of a Sea King, she also was part of an all-female crew.
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Reimer retired from the Canadian military in 2002, and after some time spent in Aidrie, Alta., she and her family moved to the Comox Valley in 2010. Her husband, Kurt, also a retired military pilot, now flies commercially, for WestJet. She said there are times when she misses the military life, but it’s in her past. “I definitely have thought about it, but every time I do, when it comes right down to it, having two pilots in the family, for us, would be a challenge.”
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GETTING IN ON A GOOD ROLE Valley actor growing his resume on primetime television BY TERRY FARRELL PHOTOS SUBMITTED
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ichael Taylor has always loved acting, but he wasn’t always certain he would be able to make a career of it. Taylor grew up in the Comox Valley. He participated in various local theatre groups – from community theatre with Kymme Patrick (Theatreworks) to productions at Mark Isfeld Secondary, where he graduated in 2015. Once out of high school, however, he thought his acting days might be over. “I always dreamt of it… but growing up on the Island, it seemed so far out of reach. I was under the (impression) that it was unachievable. So when I graduated, I (considered) studying to become a chef, or a fitness trainer or a nurse. Then one day I decided, ‘hey, what if I’m good enough?’ So I packed up and moved to Vancouver to give it a shot and it’s turned out pretty good so far.” For Taylor, persistence paid off. He landed some small parts in television shows, such as Riverdale. “That was just a one-liner, but it was fun,” he said. “My first bigger role was on a show called Firefly Lane, which was a Netflix show that really took off.” Taylor appeared in three episodes of that Netflix series. Then, earlier this year, he landed his biggest role to date - a guest appearance on the ABC show The Good Doctor.
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He said the audition was relatively standard procedure. “I received a self-tape in my email for a nine-page audition, so I put it on tape and sent it to the casting director and they got back to me in a couple of weeks saying I got the role. I didn’t even have to go through all the other hoops I would usually have to jump through. They decided I was the choice, right out of the gate.” Taylor played the part of a young athlete that developed an autoimmune disease called ankylosing spondylitis, which causes bones to fuse, making the spine curve forward. He said there was plenty of studying for the role, to familiarize himself with the character, and more importantly, the condition. “The main thing I watched… was a documentary on YouTube called The Folding Man, about a man in China who has ankylosing spondylitis, and it went untreated and he ended up becoming very distorted.” Taylor said the biggest challenge with the role was the physicality of it.
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“Physically, having to contort myself in that way for 15 hours a day – obviously taking breaks in between, that was tough,” he said. “To tap back into perspective checking, any time I felt uncomfortable, I just remembered that this is a real disease, and it’s a very excruciatingly painful disease to have. So I just kept focusing on that.” Taylor said landing a role on The Good Doctor has been a target of his for a long time, and he had to remain focused on the task at hand. “The Good Doctor is a show that I have dreamt of being on for years,” he said. “I thought it would be another five years down the line before that happened. Acting alongside A-listers is a really cool, and sometimes daunting experience, because they are so experienced, and they hold so much status and power on set. It’s very cool to witness them at work.” Taylor said the differences between television production and theatre production are vast, but the main thing for the actor is that television is “much more intimate,” even though the number of people involved in the production of a television show is exponentially higher than that of a theatre production. “In theatre, you can be overly expressive, and over-thetop, but in film you have to really feel what you are feeling, because the camera will pick it up. The camera has to look into your eyes and see that you believe what you are saying.” And how has Taylor’s guest spot on The Good Doctor affected his own career?
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“Unfortunately, aside from leading roles, you tend not to see any immediate (spin-off) from getting a decent-sized role in a show. The benefit is having that credit, and having it on your resume. When bigger productions see that, when you are auditioning, you will have a better chance of being considered than someone who has no experience. They seldom take a chance on new actors, so it’s really good experience. “Also, if you can act well along bigger actors, it looks really good. So it was a fantastic resource, getting to work on that show.“
GROWING AND MENTORING FROM THE GROUND UP Courtenay farmer expanding her roots while helping others in agriculture BY MIKE CHOUINARD
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Agriculture was not exactly in Arzeena Hamir’s family background, but that didn’t stop her from becoming a farmer. These days, farming is but one thing on her resumé, which includes serving as an elected official with the regional district, and she hopes to share what she knows with others trying to get
PHOTOS BY ALI RODDAM
into agriculture, especially young women. Hamir grew up in the Lower Mainland, but her mother is a teacher while her father ran businesses. Farming was a different world. “It was totally new to me. In fact, my family still scratches their heads,” she says. SU MME R 2021 | TR I O MAG A Z IN E
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She chose the field because she was interested in community development and studied agriculture at university where she met her husband, Neal Turner. Still, this was a stretch from the organic family farm they operate now north of Courtenay. At first, they started working overseas in places like Thailand and India. By 1999, the couple was back in Canada, and Hamir began working in agriculture in the Lower Mainland, holding a position as staff agronomist for West Coast Seeds. “That’s when I kind of relearned the skills to grow food back in Canada,” she says. Other work included executive director with the Richmond Food Security Society, but about 10 years ago, she and Turner decided to start a farm. The big challenge was finding land, though with help from friends, they found the site in the Merville area. “As soon as Neil and I drove by, we fell in love,” she says. It’s season nine for them at Amara Farm. They grow crops such as garlic, blueberries, blackcurrants, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers – 47 crops in all. “Every year I try something slightly different,” she says. She also works with others, helping to start the Mid-Island Farming Institute, and is involved with Young Agrarians, a group that helps aspiring farmers, something she knows is important when starting out. More than half of the young farmers in B.C. are women, she estimates, with many starting small farms to grow market garden produce, such as flowers. “We do have a lot of women who are going into agriculture,” she says.
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Thanu Eagalle, who operates Wild Bee Florals in the Comox Valley, is one of these. Her background is in zoology, evolutionary biology and education. She started farming in Vancouver but launched Wild Bee last year on land in the Dove Creek area. She met Hamir at the farmers market, and since then, she has had the chance to discuss irrigation, greenhouses and soil management with Hamir and her husband. “She was my go-to for a lot of community farming questions,” Eagalle says. “Having farmers to look up to who are kind and willing to share information is key to empowering the younger generation of farmers. I am so thankful for both of their support.”
“HAVING FARMERS TO LOOK UP TO WHO ARE KIND AND WILLING TO SHARE INFORMATION IS KEY TO EMPOWERING THE YOUNGER GENERATION OF FARMERS. I AM SO THANKFUL FOR BOTH OF THEIR SUPPORT.”
Amara Farm also hosts interns each year such as Natasha Anderson. While her background is in environmental science, she always had a passion for farming. She applied to an internship program and was able to get a leave from her regular job, so she was thrilled to be able to work with Hamir and Turner. In the short time already, she’s learned about irrigation, crop rotation and the importance of seeds. For Anderson, who is Indigenous, working at Amara is also a great opportunity to learn from another woman of colour. “Amara was my top choice for many reasons,” she says. “Every day, I learn, like, a thousand things…. I’m trying to absorb as much as possible.” For those new to farming, Hamir says, there are three main considerations: access to land; access to capital; and access to knowledge. This last one isn’t always easy to line up. “Mentorship is incredibly important,” she says. “Having a mentor, a person who’s done this in your climate, in your bio-region, it’s a big deal…. It’s the third pillar you really need as a farmer.”
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INDIGENOUS BUSINESSES BUILDING COMMUNITY IN DOWNTOWN COURTENAY BY MIKE CHOUINARD
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PHOTO BY ALI RODDAM
“AFTER A LONG YEAR OF UNCERTAINTY, MANY SUPPORTIVE PEERS IN BUSINESS, FAMILY LOVE, FRIEND SUPPORT AND SUPPORT THAT BECAME FRIENDS IN CAMARADERIE, WE FINALLY FOUND A SPOT,”
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he Wachiay Friendship Centre provides supports and services to Indigenous people in the Comox Valley. Late last year, it expanded its workload a bit when it went into business downtown, moving into space at AnnSew Tailoring. The owner retired, but instead of closing, gave the store to Wachiay. TAILORING, ARTS AND BEYOND AnnSew has changed hands several times over its 40-plus years, so transition was nothing new. What is new is that along with AnnSew’s tailoring, Wachiay now offers arts, clothes, crafts, even artisanal tea. It also has set up a fundraising space in partnership with local artists (Wachiay Downtown) to help with programs to help people in need. “I’m hoping to expand both businesses even further within the next two years – providing jobs through AnnSew with a training and employment program and showcasing our local artists to the world with a robust online presence,” says operator Khrissie Strachan. ARTISANS FROM NEAR AND FAR Wachiay’s storefront is only one of the signs of Indigenous business in the heart of Courtenay. Offering another outlet for artisans from near and far is Sage and Tree Gallery. Owner Theresa Lambert offers home decor, apothecary, jewelry, macrame, beadwork, glass art, originals, prints and apparel. She is of Cree/French ancestry from northern Alberta, and she was greatly inspired by her Kookum (grandmother) to go into beadwork.
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For the store, she was travelling with her family, accidentally missed a ferry and stumbled upon downtown Courtenay, where she will re-open in June. “After a long year of uncertainty, many supportive peers in business, family love, friend support and support that became friends in camaraderie, we finally found a spot,” she says. YOU SCREAMING FOR ICE CREAM? For those with a sweet tooth, Blue Spruce Ice Cream offers traditional custard ice creams, vegan ice cream, baking and food from scratch without any preservatives, dyes, syrups or artificial ingredients. Flavours listed on the website include chocolate cashew brittle, spruce tip and burnt honey and thyme. It’s been three years since it opened. Kirsten Wood says her Indigenous identity underlies her business philosophy. It means she sources from other Indigenous businesses and local ingredients, supports Indigenous causes, aims for a low environmental impact and aims to lift up other Indigenous women in the community. As to why downtown? She says, “I’d always dreamed of owning a shop in downtown Courtenay ever since I was a little kid. I liked all the colourful store fronts, the fun and inventive stores and the beautiful community aspect. I think our downtown core helps make Courtenay a unique place.” WHERE LEGEND AND DOUGHNUT MEET At the other end of downtown but just as sweet is Bigfoot Donuts,
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which Lyndsey Bell co-owns with her husband. The business, which just won a Small Business BC Awards, serves up, among other things, fine coffee and doughnuts ranging from their regular repertoire to special monthly creations. They were inspired in part by memories of the old Courtenay Bakery on 5th Street. Bell completed concurrent bachelors degrees in First Nations studies and finance and worked in First Nations economic development. Economic self-determination for Indigenous communities she describes as a great passion and hopes to inspire other Indigenous people to pursue their own economic self determination. Even the name is in part inspired by culture, as Bell says, “The Bigfoot legend is prevalent in coastal First Nations and has always been something I've connected with.” WAIT, THERE’S MORE… A block down on 5th Street is SoulStar Metaphysics, which, as its website says, has ethical gifts, spiritual training and the “Crystal Café.” The items include many things like crystals, essential oils, incense, jewelry, candles, sound bowls and chimes. Amanda Delisle’s store even has its own blog. Finally, yet another block down is The Cottage Clothing Company. Carrie Desjarlais Holub’s Courtenay location offers unique, shoes, outerwear and accessories for the West Coast lifestyle. As she said in a Facebook post about opening, “We are so excited to be part of the beautiful downtown Courtenay community.”
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ADVERTORIAL FEATURE
LOCAL PEOPLE, LOCAL STORIES
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A DVERTOR I A L F EAT U RE
LIFE IS FOR LIVING BY MARCIE DUMAIS
Meet Lauren, self-declared FOMO-sapien (fear of missing out) and 10-year resident of Comox. In Valley terms, Lauren is a newcomer. Even so, it would be difficult to find a trail she hasn’t biked, a beach she hasn’t explored, or a mountain she hasn’t hiked. There are many things to appreciate about this adventurous woman, whether it be the leadership she has shown in coaching kids to mountain bike, planning successful bike swaps or championing the Isfeld Salad Bar Program. Her hard work is valued, but what is extraordinary is Lauren’s “joie de vivre.” Lauren gets that joy is vital in living a full, healthy life. She also knows that sometimes life is unpredictable, and accidents happen.
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No stranger to the Emergency Department at the Comox Valley Hospital, Lauren’s injuries range from significant damage to her knees, broken ribs, fractured wrists, a broken hand and multiple concussions. When asked what Lauren values most about local healthcare, she answers, “knowing I have access to the best care possible. I never want to give up the joy of playing hard outdoors. It is a huge part of my life. Knowing the team at the hospital will expertly and compassionately help if I injure myself, or need any type of care, brings me confidence.” We play here. We work here. Help ensure the best possible care here, close to home.
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Jules by the Bay Fine Jewellery boutique opened in beautiful downtown Comox in 2016 to provide residents and visitors unique local custom jewellery designs by long time valley couple Jules Reynolds and Ross Haynes. For almost 40 years, Ross and Jules travelled North America selling their work through fine family-owned jewellery stores. Now with his friendly and knowledgeable staff, Ross enjoys personally helping clients create together new designs for special occasions as well as every day wear. Combining old world forging skills with technical innovations, the pair create contemporary pieces to wear and cherish. Convenient in-house repairs and maintenance as well as watch supplies and jewellery appraisals round out their services to their community.
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A DV E RTO R IA L F E AT U RE
INTIMACY IS IMPORTANT AT EVERY AGE! Sexual health and aging. Both of these subjects can be intimidating to talk about. As a result, those experiencing symptoms often suffer in silence while navigating the process of aging and intimacy. Dr. Alexandra Bascom and the team at Bascom Medical Therapy have committed to creating a practice that supports open dialogue, educational resources and positive solutions around these issues for both women and men. Clinical evidence has found that what many intuitively know to be accurate is that physical intimacy is vital for healthy, loving relationships. Identifying some of the changes that occur during the aging process and effectively addressing them through treatment can lead to greater mental well-being and physical enjoyment. “A 2017 University of Michigan National Poll of Heathy Aging cites that 76 per cent of respondents agree that physical intimacy is an important part of a romantic relationship.” ~ Dr. Bascom For women, part of the natural aging process is menopause. During this time, which includes peri-menopause and postmenopause, hormonal fluctuations can lead to various changes in the body that affect sexual health. Some of the most frequently experienced symptoms are vaginal dryness, laxity, burning, pain during sexual intercourse and mild urinary incontinence. Though these changes are common they can be distressing and can adversely affect quality of life and sexual satisfaction. Bascom Medical Therapy is excited to offer the MonaLisa Touch laser therapy, specifically designed to treat these symptoms, referred to as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) or Vulvovaginal Atrophy. The MonaLisa Touch uses a unique vaginal probe to deliver a gentle, fractional CO2 laser energy to the vaginal wall tissue. The laser targets the atrophic vaginal mucosa by stimulating a metabolic reaction and neocollagenesis, resulting in enhanced vascularization, elastin and collagen deposition, and increased moisture and lubrication in the vagina.
can decrease satisfaction in intimate relationships. Diagnosing and managing concerns around erectile dysfunction, voiding dysfunction, prostate enlargement, and other urological issues can be essential to maintaining a positive outlook and enjoyment of life. The friendly and experienced staff at Bascom Medical Therapy will ensure your visit to the clinic is relaxing and informative. The professional team of nurses and Urologists is looking forward to providing exceptional care to you and your loved ones. Intimacy is important at everyy age!
Take the Self-Survey...Is this treatment for me? ❍ Are you peri-menopausal or post-menopausal? ❍ Do you notice the symptoms of vaginal discomfort on a regular basis? ❍ Are you experiencing: dryness, itching, discharge, odor, irritation, tenderness? ❍ Have you been through cancer treatments? ❍ Do you choose not to [or cannot] use estrogen/hormone therapies? ❍ Are you experiencing urinary problems? ❍ Would you like to have sexual relations without discomfort? ❍ Would you like to revitalize your vaginal area?
If you checked three or more boxes, MonaLisa Touch may be a helpful treatment for you.
“The MonaLisa Touch has opened the floodgates for women to talk about their gynecologic health.” ~ Dr. Bascom The MonaLisa Touch laser therapy is a five minute procedure that is performed in-office and generally requires no recovery time to return to normal activity. Additionally, patients can expect to resume sexual activity within 48 to 72 hours. Three treatments, spaced at four to six week intervals, are recommended though many patients experience relief after just one treatment. Identifying and treating GSM can be life changing. Many women find that they ‘feel like themselves again’, with restored sexual well-being and improved self-confidence, resulting in a substantial enhancement to their quality of life. “I have been astonished by the amazing outcomes with the procedure and the positive response from women. Patients are renewing their intimate connection with their partner or finding that their symptoms of lichen sclerosis are under control for the first time in years.” ~ Dr. Bascom Sexual health for men is equally important at Bascom Medical Therapy. As men age, they can experience conditions that
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DR. ALEXANDRA BASCOM For more information about Dr. Bascom and the MonaLisa Touch, check out the website at www.bascommedical.com To schedule an appointment please call 778-431-0200 Like us on facebook @bascommedicaltherapy
A DVERTOR I A L F EAT U RE
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250-830-7330 info@kathicameron.com Unit 109 - 618 Anderton Road, Comox
LOW FEE COUNSELLING NOW From our fears of contracting COVID, loss of income, social isolation, and the discomfort of feeling out of control, our collective mental health has taken a huge hit. Social isolation alone can have an impact on our emotional and physical health while financial stress coupled with the unknown future can lead us into depression, anxiety, and physical illness. Currently, we are offering low fee mental health support for as low as $30 and are able to see you as soon as you wish – without being placed on a waitlist. This service is ideal for those struggling with feelings of sadness/depression, loneliness and anxiety and other life challenges or those wishing to learn more about stress and anger management and health affirming coping skills. This service is provided by a clinical counselling intern and supervised by an experienced and registered clinical counsellor. Intern counsellors have completed their graduate studies program and are now practicing these skills. Individuals (teens and adults) and couples are welcome, and sessions can be conducted in person, online, or on the phone. If you or someone you know is interested in more information, we invite you to email us at info@kathicameron. com or check out www.kathicameron.com.
COMMUNITY MEMBERS GIVING BACK ROOFING & SHEET METAL LTD.
Planning a new roof? Call us for a FREE estimate!
Serving the North Island for over 40 years
BY ALEXANDRA STEPHANSON
Everyone at Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd cares about their community. They’ve been family owned and operated for over 40 years. In that time, they have grown to be the largest roofing and cladding contractor north of Victoria and are now proudly serving Vancouver Island North and the Coast Region, as well as the Sunshine Coast. They have installed, repaired, or replaced over 31,000 roofs in the last 20 years. Supporting local charities has remained a significant part of their giving back. Recently, the team could be spotted installing roofs for Habitat for Humanity Vancouver Island North. To date, they have aided 30 local families in need.
250-336-8088 nelsonroofing.com
Consistently and reliably, Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd have built their culture around quality workmanship. They bring their attention to detail and commitment to excellence to every job from maintenance and repair, to re-roofing and new construction. Their services include custom metal roofs, flat roofs, shingled roofs, as well as architectural wall cladding and custom sheet metal and flashing, for both residential and commercial buildings. Contact them today for a free estimate you can trust. After all, they have been installing peace of mind for over 40 years.
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TRUE DIMENSIONS SALON EFXZ SPECIALIZES IN THE SALON EXPERIENCE Indulgence awaits BY ALEXANDRA STEPHANSON
As one client put it, she “went in as a walk-in with tired, blah hair and walked out feeling completely rejuvenated.” Sometimes some luxury and a clean new look is just what you need. A good haircut can leave you feeling light and renewed. A manicure, or pedicure or simple eyebrow wax can make you feel pampered.
Upon entering the salon, warm rose gold envelops you. The gentle aromatics of velveteen red rose, peony petals and soft linen float in the air. A welcoming smile greets you, and you know you are about to be indulged. Owner Billie Lewis feels that treating her customers is a pleasure. “Making someone feel refreshed is such a blessing,” she explains. Her sense of hospitality goes beyond the sensual. Billie’s customers feel “she really listens, and she gives me the cut I want.” Their philosophy is “whether you're looking for a unique cut or something more traditional, (their) team of stylists can accommodate your needs.” True Dimensions Salon EFXZ stylists take care of women, children, and men alike. Furthermore, their thoughtfulness extends to customers’ funds. They believe “everyone deserves quality pampering at reasonable prices.”
True Dimensions Salon EFXZ specializes in making you feel spoiled. With treatments including bridal services, haircuts, colouring and even beard grooming, their team of stylists is focused on putting you first.
Whatever you come in for, you will leave feeling relaxed and renewed on all levels. You deserve a break. You deserve a trip to True Dimensions Salon EFXZ, in Courtenay.
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Wedding edding and Grad Packages Available Our Fabulous Stylists Billie • Brenda • Bernice Our Fabulous Barber Troy
• Special Occasion Hair • Manicure & Pedicures • Colour Services • Tape- in Extensions • Full Service Barbering
250-334-1906 105-364 8th Street, Courtenay 20
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A DVERTOR I A L F EAT U RE
MEDICAL DOCTOR’S PASSION Enhancing Natural Beauty BY ALEXANDRA STEPHANSON
create an individualized treatment plan tailored to their needs,” she says.
Dr. Kim Cameron has seen lots of change in 2021. Beyond the COVID-enforced changes to life and family practice medicine, she got married in March and has joined a new clinic for part of her work week. While Dr. Cameron has been injecting Botox for many years, she only recently joined Willow Medical Aesthetics and their teams at both their Courtenay and Campbell River locations. She was extremely selective about the decision. In the end, she says she chose to work with Dr. Liezl Sullivan because of the incredible reviews (of her clinic). She loves that Willow Medical’s objective is to enhance natural beauty with professional medical care. Aesthetic medicine is a wonderful extension of Dr. Cameron’s skills. “In our clinic I love that I get to discuss a client’s goals and
“At the moment my favourite treatment to perform is Botox.” With Botox, clients have great results and it is wonderful to see changes within just 2 weeks of receiving the procedure. Our aim is to make people look natural while we are doing it.” Genuinely helping women feel their best on the inside and out is what is so meaningful for Dr. Cameron. “A lot of times in medicine I’m seeing people when they are going through a hard time physically and emotionally, especially now with COVID. In aesthetic medicine, we have this amazing opportunity to work with people to achieve their skin goals, where even small changes can make a difference for them when they look in the mirror.” Having clients feel relaxed about procedures is important to Dr. Cameron too. She is a big believer in the complementary consultations they offer. Clients “should have time to think about aesthetic treatments, and feel good about their decision,” she notes. “My goal is to walk a path with my patients and this starts with trusting that we will provide them with the best possible medical care and advice in the years to come.”
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250-871-8333 www.willowmedical.ca Courtenay 1777 Riverside Lane
info@willowmedical.ca Campbell River 90C Westgate Road
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AWARD CATEGORIES
&
ARTS AMBASSADOR This individual(s) is vital to the diversity of our community and encourages participation, and social wellbeing. They encourage partnerships and initiatives to support the arts, heritage and cultural landscape of the Valley. COACH(S) This individual(s)makes a positive contribution to our sports community. They are exemplary in developing skills and confidence in participants, inspires youth, and encourages a high level of athletic achievement and commitment. COMMUNITY BUILDER This individual or group has taken the initiative to engage residents in an innovative or new community project or event. The initiative might encourage different groups to collaborate, address a gap in community participation , or result in a more inclusive, engaged community initiative/event.
2020 HERO OF THE YEAR
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER This individual(s) makes a positive contribution to the community by volunteering their time. This person is significantly relied on by others.
DAVE TALBOT COURAGE & BRAVERY This individual(s) has exhibited great bravery while facing a threat to their own safety in coming to the aid of another. While conquering fear, this individual triumphed for the benefit of others. EDUCATOR This individual(s) demonstrates a high level of ethics and professional standards, is an inspirational motivator, excellent communicator, good listener and a reliable resource to the community and his/her students. EMERGENCY SERVICES This individual(s) makes a positive contribution by going the extra mile. They are exemplary in the area of emergency services and unselfishly shoulder enormous responsibility while accepting the potential risks and challenges of the job.
NOMINATE AN INDIVIDUAL WHO HAS MADE A DIFFERENCE hero.comoxvalleyrecord.com http://www.hero.comoxvalleyrecord.com Nomination cut off: August 1, 2021
ENVIRONMENTAL HERO This individual(s) makes a positive contribution to the community by championing environmentally friendly initiatives. They inspire others to be green by being a leader or advocating ecologically sound practices. HERO OF THE YEAR This individual rises above the rest by demonstrating unwaivering leadership, compassion and community spirit in all that he or she does. He or she makes a genuine and significant contribution to the Valley and is a natural community role model. (COMMUNITY PARTNERS JUDGING PANEL WILL SELECT) SENIORS' CHAMPION This individual(s) has made an outstanding voluntary contribution to enrich the social, cultural or civic life of our community . Must be 65 or over.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
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BC Ambulance Service
Comox Valley Child Development
Comox Valley Search and Rescue
The LINC Youth Centre
CV Community Foundation
19 Wing Comox
Comox Valley RCMP/GRC
IHOS Gallery
Comox Valley Fire Chiefs` Assoc
CV Health Care Foundation
Comox Valley Arts Council
Comox Valley Record
K`omoks First Nations
Black Press
North Island College
The Views at St. Josephs
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UNSUNG HERO This individual has made a positive contribution to the community through their work, and has gone beyond to support the community and/or cause. YOUTH VOLUNTEER This young individual (under 18) makes a positive contribution to the community through volunteer efforts, community engagement, leading by example, and has directly impacted the community. DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION ADVOCATE This individual has made a significant contribution to the community to increase awareness and advocate for a community culture where the inherent worth and dignity of all people are recognized and celebrated. ANIMAL ADVOCATE This individual has directly impacted the quality of life of animals or the quality of life of an animal. Through their leadership they have created positive change to respect and protect animals and/or displayed outstanding behaviour in honor of animals.
A DVERTOR I A L F EAT U RE
WINDOW TREATMENTS OF THE FUTURE Automation of Tomorrow, Today BY ALEXANDRA STEPHANSON
Can you imagine a world where blinds and shades adjust themselves automatically? It’s here. This kind of automation is available now in the Comox Valley, at Blinds & Bubbles Boutique. Hunter Douglas window treatments offers it all.
home/business consultations where we bring the samples to you. For luxury, convenience and ease, Blinds & Bubbles Boutique located in Home Hardware/Central Builders, has got you covered.
They give you the power to precisely control your environment, either on command, or automatically with scheduled presets. No need to fiddle with difficult, or messy strings any longer. Hunter Douglas allows you multiple methods to perfectly adjust your blinds. When you are home and need a lighting change, just reach for your specialized, “Pebble” remote control. Blinds will quickly, quietly and easily adjust responsively. If your house is already integrated with smart-home systems like Amazon Alexa, Siri from Apple, or Google Assistant, simple voice activation will do the trick. Furthermore, the PowerView App allows you to alter blinds when you are away from home - it couldn’t be easier. Owners Tracey and John McGinnis and the team are located in Downtown Courtenay inside Home Hardware/Central Builders. We have a full retail showroom where you can see and handle the different options available and also offer complimentary in-
In the photo, L-R: Mike, Samantha, Janet, Tracey. Missing from photo-John
PowerView Silhouette ®
®
250-941-7824 LOCATED IN HOME HARDWARE/CENTRAL BUILDERS!! Retail Store Hours: Mon - Fri 10-4:30pm, Sat 10-3pm, Sun - Closed
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KEEPING UP WITH DEMAND New Developments in Crown Isle Today’s Real Estate reality is that demand is far exceeding supply in the Comox Valley market. In an attempt to help satisfy this demand, the Crown Isle Real Estate team is continually developing remaining undeveloped portions of the 970 acres of Block 72 which is more commonly recognized as Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community. On the immediate horizon are two new developments, one offering single family building lots alongside two future multi-sites, while the second concentrates on maintenance-free strata patio-home living.
THE NEXT STEP IN THE EVOLUTION OF CROWN ISLE. New home building lots are available from $395,000 FOR MORE INFO, CONTACT
Jason Andrew, Director of Real Estate RealEstate@CrownIsle.com | 250-703-5056
CrownIsle.com
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Greystone Estates is nestled in the centre of the Community close to the Crown Isle Resort Centre with a single entrance / exit coming off Majestic Drive. Bordered by holes 8, 9 and 10 of the golf course, Greystone will afford stunning views and pastoral backdrops to many of the future properties. This new development will bring to the Community 54 single family building lots plus two additional multi-sites (actual offering yet to be determined).
A DVERTOR I A L F EAT U RE
“To ensure consistency in home design, new home construction will follow a similar Building Scheme as the rest of the Crown Isle Community,” says Jason Andrew, Director of Real Estate. New residents will be able to choose from existing designs or build the custom home of their dreams. Construction will be available through Homes by Crown Isle and Integra Homes. With its central location, Greystone Estates is arguably the best
location within the Crown Isle Community with synergies with the Resort Centre, Thrifty’s Plaza and Costco. Registration of the lots is expected in late July with new home construction following close behind. Another exciting development coming soon is Silverstone Estates. Silverstone is a 48 unit patio home site being built by Integra Homes. These spectacular units will line the pristine fairways and lakes of the 14th, 15th and 16th holes of Crown Isle's championship golf course. The architectural style is Craftsman/Farmhouse with floor plans ranging from 1,437 to 1,993 sq.ft. Designed with an open-concept living space that transitions to the outdoor patio so that you can take in the amazing views. A world class destination offering a lifestyle many only dream of living. You will enjoy the serene beauty of the golf course as well as the surrounding mountains from this one of a kind location. Silverstone will be built in 5 phases, starting in the summer of 2021. Bert Jaeger with Crown Isle Realty will be the realtor for Silverstone and can navigate you through your buying options for this exclusive development.
SPECTACULAR PATIO HOMES ON CROWN ISLE’S CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE. Phase 1 starting Summer 2021 FOR MORE INFO, CONTACT
Bert Jaeger, REALTOR ® bjaeger@crownisle.com | 250-898-9128
Beyond these two developments, the Real Estate team at Crown Isle has plenty of future development ahead and is currently working on three other areas including plans for the RISE on the north side of Ryan Road along with lands to the east of the golf course to the Anderton / Ryan Road corner. Future plans for the Clubhouse include Top Tracer two-level driving range with tapas lounge and patio area, a spa, pool and expanded Villa offering. The Crown Isle Community will continue to grow and adapt to the ever-changing needs of the Comox Valley. Re-imagine your life and make your move to Crown Isle today.
Quality homes, built on trust.
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HONORARY COLONEL GLOWS WITH ADMIRATION His 407 Squadron is Deserving BY ALEXANDRA STEPHANSON
There couldn’t be more pride flowing from Honorary Colonel Walker when he describes the “Demons” and missions of his 407 maritime patrol squadron crews. Doug Walker was appointed Honourary Colonel in 2016 and considers himself lucky to continue to hold the position. He joyously tells of the long hours his “Demons” spend patrolling seas from the sky. Responsibilities of his 407 squadron range from recognizing migrant and drug smuggling ships, to spotting pollution, to identifying illegal fishing. They are best known and respected for their traditional role, monitoring foreign submarines off Canadian coastal waters, but also participate in complex and remote search and rescue missions. All of their operations impress and animate their Honourary Colonel. Even as a young boy, Doug was drawn to the military. He spent 6 years as a sea cadet. Subsequently, he joined the navy and then the air force. He can relate to current service members of 407
When we all can once again enjoy life’s special events, make us your first stop.
https://www.walker24menswear.com/
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squadron, as he has spent countless hours in the air himself. “I flew jets 50 years ago” he muses. He takes his current title of Honorary Colonel very seriously, building and developing community support for his unit, as the bright eyed and enthusiastic face of the division. He says he finds it easy to do, and it shows. “I’ll go on and on talking about it, if you’ll let me,” he says. It’s clear that his favourite part of the roll is spending time with unit members. Regardless of rank or position, he holds the highest esteem for them and their work. While visiting Yellowknife, the Honorary Colonel says he feels privileged to have taken part in multiple flights, providing him plenty of fodder for promotional discussions. New on his list of topics is the squadron’s 80th anniversary. He explains how the group was formed in England in 1941. There, during the war, they both flew on attacks, and served on antisubmarine duty. The easiest place to find Doug, and get him talking, is his men’s clothing shop “Walker 24” that he owns with his son, where his absolute love of chatting with customers is obvious.
“I AM VERY PROUD OF OUR DEPLOYED MEMBERS WHO DEMONSTRATED THE PROFESSIONALISM, AGILITY AND MISSION-READY FOCUS TO TAKE TOP PRIZE DURING THE EXERCISE.” - MAJ.-GEN. ERIC KENNY
407 SQUADRON TOPS AT MILITARY COMPETITION Crew and personnel from 19 Wing winners at Guam air base STORY SUBMITTED
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PHOTOS BY PETTY OFFICER 1ST CLASS GLENN SLAUGHTER
CP-140 Aurora aircraft and a crew from the 407 Long Range Patrol Squadron in Comox, along with support personnel from 19 Wing Comox, was the top team at a subhunting competition in January at an air base in Guam.
The team won the Dragon Belt, awarded to the top crew on exercise with the most efficient tactics at Exercise Sea Dragon 2021.
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Photo: Maj Mathieu Kuhn, 407 Squadron An Airborne Electronic Sensor Operator with 407 Long Range Patrol Squadron inventories sono-buoys used to detect underwater sounds onboard a CP-140 Aurora during Exercise Sea Dragon, held at Andersen Air Base, Guam. A Royal Canadian Air Force CP-140 Aurora aircraft from 407 Long Range Patrol Squadron is readied for a flight at Andersen Air Base Guam on 19 January 2021 during Exercise Sea Dragon, a multinational anti-submarine warfare exercise hosted by the United States Navy. A Royal Canadian Air Force CP-140 Aurora aircraft from 407 Long Range Patrol Squadron returns to Andersen Air Base, Guam after a training flight during Exercise Sea Dragon.
Hosted by the United States Navy’s Seventh Fleet, the annual event is a multi national, anti-submarine warfare exercise, designed to safeguard the security of the Pacific region. Antisubmarine warfare is a branch of underwater warfare that uses warships, aircraft, submarines or other platforms to find, track, and deter, damage, and/or destroy enemy submarines. This was the first year the Royal Canadian Air Force participated in the exercise.
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“Training alongside our allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region is critical to maintaining an effective and interoperable RCAF Long Range Patrol capability to meet our defence policy mandate,” said Major General Eric Kenny, Commander, 1 Canadian Air Division. “I am very proud of our deployed members who demonstrated the professionalism, agility and mission-ready focus to take top prize during the exercise.”
The CP-140 Aurora is a long-range patrol aircraft used for multiple types of missions over land and water. It supports a variety of roles, including operations management, maritime and overland intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, anti-submarine and antisurface warfare, strike co-ordination, and search and rescue. It can also assist other government agencies to combat illegal fishing, pollution and drug trafficking, as examples. The RCAF’s participation enabled training opportunities for the Long Range Patrol community, working with allies and partners in the Pacific, including Australia, India, Japan and the U.S. The training is critical to ensuring the RCAF’s Aurora crews remain ready and able to conduct patrol missions at home, and to operate effectively with other nations, including those in the Indo-Pacific theatre. More than 190 personnel from the five countries performed ground and classroom training for upwards of 250 hours. The exercise also consisted of a tracking drill with a submarine, the USS Providence, which served as the enemy threat. While COVID-19 precluded many exercises last year, the RCAF is engaging in training events at home and around the world via a number of safety measures.
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Family Owned and Operated Since 1961
EDUCATING WITH HISTORY, CULTURE AND KNOWLEDGE
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NIC Elder in Residence charts new nursing curriculum
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BY TERRY FARRELL PHOTO BY NORTH ISLAND COLLEGE
D
r. Evelyn Voyageur’s list of accomplishments is only surpassed by her devotion to her career, her calling and her culture.
Those elements are intrinsically entwined. In fact, it was her concern for her own people that initially led Voyageur down the nursing path. Voyageur grew up in the residential school system, which limited her education beyond Grade 8. “In those days, you were not encouraged to seek education,” she explained. “Once you reached Grade 8, you were booted out of the residential school.” She returned to school years later, as a young mother of three children, to pursue a career in nursing. She started as a licensed practical nurse in 1979, but was not done learning. She went on to earn a master’s degree, and ultimately, a PhD in mental health. “When I started working with my people, I did not understand them,” she said. “There was so much disfunction. I had been raised by a caring, loving, very hard-working family. But I would go and live in other places, and I would find that lacking… nobody was ready to look after their children. Nobody was prepared. I had to find out what the difference was between them and my family. I found out that it came down to residential schools. Almost none of my family was part of that system, but the people I worked with, they had
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six, seven, eight generations of being products of the residential schools. So I kept asking questions, and going to workshops with the Elders.
cannot be overstated, as the history of First Nations has not been told. She added if First Nations people could be more involved in the curriculum and academia, there would be less racism.
“I needed to understand the people that I am working with. I needed to know what happened to them. I needed to find out how I can best work with them. That’s why I chose to study mental health.”
Voyageur said her teachings go beyond the written word. It’s the practical lessons that make a difference. She has helped shape the program so that students go to First Nations villages and live with the community for a week, stay with residents and participate in the community.
That is the message she continues to teach to this day. Voyageur retired as an active nurse in 1999, and it wasn’t long thereafter that the next chapter of her legacy was launched - as the Elder In Residence at North Island College (NIC). She spent a few years filling shortages in the industry, “filling in for people who were on holidays, or when people had quit, in the communities I had worked in.” Then she was asked to make an oral presentation at a conference in Port Alberni about the effects of residential school on the health of First Nations people. “So I went and did my talk … and North Island College was there. They heard me speak, and then approached me and said ‘We are changing the curriculum in our nursing program, and we need you. We can’t do it, because we don’t know everything about First Nations.’ ” Voyageur said the importance of her role at North Island College
“They come back and say ‘I have transformed. My thinking has changed.’ It’s stuff you can’t learn from a book. You have to experience it.” Voyageur has received numerous awards and accolades for her work. In 2018, she received the Indspire Award for outstanding career achievement, one of the highest honours within the Indigenous community. She also earned a College of Registered Nurses of BC Lifetime Achievement Award, is the first Indigenous nurse to receive an Award of Excellence in Nursing from Health Canada’s First Nations and Inuit Branch and was previously named one of the top 150 nurses across Canada. Recently, nursing students at NIC have donated $10,000 to a new bursary in honour of Voyageur to support future nursing students at the college.
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LEARNING LIFE FROM THE BOARD Finding community and more on a skateboard BY SCOTT STANFIELD PHOTOS BY ALI RODDAM
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umberland resident Luke Felice has created an inclusive camp program that offers life lessons as participants learn the sport of skateboarding, also known as skating.
He plans to run the Drop In On Life skate program during summer break. The program incorporates two themes, community and alternative education. “I’ve found all these parallels between what it takes to literally ride the skateboard, and what it takes to navigate life a little better,” said Felice, 28. “From balance and breath work, to architecture, to learning a new language, to humility. All of these lessons can be learned while riding a skateboard… Skateboarding, especially as a lifelong passion, offers a thousand transferable skills that kids can take with them into the world.” Felice grew up skating in the Greater Toronto Area. He lived next door to a pair of brothers, who provided inspiration as they skated on the smooth road running along their street. “That was it for me,” he said. Felice had struggled to understand the rules, and to keep up with the play of team sports before he discovered skating. Hockey, lacrosse and baseball require strategy, anticipation and focus for long periods. Skaters develop acute athletic skills in the same way, he explains, but not necessarily with the same level of demand on attention. “You only need to try your hardest for a split second at a time, and outside of that, you're free to have fun, to be present with
NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR
ACUPUNCTURE
ATHLETIC THERAPY
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anything and everything but the rules of the game,” Felice said. “But it also demands that you learn to modify and try again.” While solo activities can be competitive, they can also be free from a rulebook and competition. Felice considers skating to be more akin to music and dance — which could appeal to youth whose learning style is more creative and diverse than traditional. “I can see now that my earlier sports required a style of learning that is rigid and bulky,” he said. For skaters, he said the world is an endless arena of obstacles or "spots.” They take elements of city architecture and use them in new and creative ways. “What skateboarding does, naturally, is push the individual out into the world where they meet real people, living real lives,” Felice said. “Skating around town as a kid was a wide-eyed, looking-glass experience into my surroundings. And through these 'on the road' experiences, we learn so much about ourselves and others.” Skateboarding is an inclusive activity, added Felice, noting the number of young women within the skating community. “We're all allies,” he said. “It doesn't matter who you are or where you come from. If you're on a board, you're accepted. It's amazing to witness our culture become ever dynamic like that.” Felice hopes the Drop In On Life program will expand year after year. Find him on Instagram and Facebook @dropinonlife
RMT
MODERN CHIROPRACTOR
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KINESIOLOGY
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OBSERVATIONS ON THE ESTUARY Comox illustrator opens up the Valley to children BY TERRY FARRELL
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here’s a reason every children’s book comes with illustrations - it’s how children learn to read.
The illustrations in a children’s book are arguably the most important part. A parent is unlikely to ever sit down with their toddler and read them a bedtime story from a book without pictures. That point is not lost on Kate Brown, who has provided the illustrations for numerous children’s books. “Images really are worth a thousand words, and if we can take what we have and tell people in an illustration, it’s great,” she said. Ashley Brown Books is a collaboration between Brown and author Marlet Ashley. Their children’s books are widely popular and educational, not only from a literacy point of view, but also from a local ecology standpoint.
Their Revelry on the Estuary series is set in the Comox estuary at Comox Harbour and Goose Spit. Brown said while the stories are fiction, they have all come about from her observations of life on the estuary. Brown’s newfound ‘career’ as an illustrator came by chance, and was completely unplanned. She and her husband, Pete Rutgers, moved to the Comox Valley
from Vancouver in 2010 to retire, after a career in interior design. “We live on the estuary… we’d be sitting quietly by the waterfront and I was quite amazed at all the activity that was going on,” said Brown. “So I began to draw [the birds] and that’s how I began to learn about the animals and I realized that they all have stories to tell.” She began painting, mostly as a hobby, to start with. “It started off at as a Christmas card,” said Brown. “Then I met up with Marlet and I told her about the stories on the estuary… the ducks smashing the trumpeter swans and this kind of thing… it just grew into a book, and we published the first one in 2012.” Brown said there’s a certain gratification with producing art that has a dual purpose, such as a learning tool for children. “It’s certainly not a monetary reward in any way,” she laughed. “We have gone to a number of schools to do readings, and it is fascinating to watch all the children sitting in front of us, mesmerized at the stories. We had one story about an accident on the 17th Street Bridge, where a bunch of ducks fell into the water, and this one little boy gasped and said ‘Oh my, did it really happen?’ So you know they are involved and engaged. That’s the reward. “I wanted to do something with children because I think that curiosity is very important - their way of finding out things, and getting to know a new environment.”
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SETTING UP THE SILVER SCREEN FOR COMMUNITY Queer Culture driving up pandemic-safe events for a good cause BY MIKE CHOUINARD
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ew things linger together in the imagination like summer nights and drive-in movies, and at a time when public events have been off-limits, Queer Culture has a found way to hearken back to those long evenings with a series of summer drive-in movies at 40 Knots Winery. The drive-in movies are just the latest Queer Culture fundraiser. Jeffery Stickler, one of the organizers, says the group began holding events for the LGBTQ2+ community in the Comox Valley a few years back as a way to bring people together. “We noticed a part of the community was missing,” he says. “There was just no socialization. There was no place for people to go out and physically meet each other and let loose.” This was until they started holding Deja Vu events at The Avalanche Pub. Other fundraisers and free get-togethers have included the drag race at Simms Park, the Fruit Float down the Puntledge River, the White Party Brunch at 40 Knots and dinner on the bridge at Stotan Falls.
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Along with fun and bringing people together, a motivation for Queer Culture is to raise money for the Langley Parnell Bursary. So far, it has brought in more than $16,000. One of the things the bursary committee want to hear from applicants is how they will “sparkle,” in other words, how they will change the world.
Tracey J Gard
“Every penny that we’ve raised, we’ve given away,” Stickler says.
https://www.edwardjones.ca/ w w w.e d wa rd j o n e s .c a
The bursary not only provides financial support for a young person who might feel marginalized but support for them in knowing there is a community who cares. “It’s an amazing feeling to have people that are there for you, all the time,” says Kitty Pitt, another organizer. The other Queer Culture members include Austin Longacre, Erica Everitt, Ashley Lauzon and Levi Smith. The bursary is named for Stickler’s long-time partner, Eric Langley, who passed away quickly after being diagnosed with cancer, as well as for Pitt’s grandmother, Beatrice Parnell. “We both owe who we are today to those people,” Stickler says. For the movie fundraisers, they can host up to 50 cars. The lineup includes Grease, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Mean Girls and Mamma Mia! The movies will take place from late June through to Aug. 6 on Friday nights at 40 Knots. Tickets are available online through Eventbrite under Queer Culture. There is no set fee, but the organizers are suggesting a donation of $20 per car for the bursary. They also recommend reservations. As well, KALM will be doing yoga on site before the movie starts, and there will be a food truck arriving at 8 p.m. to provide offerings. “People don’t even have to get out of their cars,” Pitt says. The events are weather-permitting, so people are encouraged to check with Queer Culture’s Facebook page for any news of last-minute cancellations. Refunds will be given. The page also has the full lineup of movies.
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10 QUESTIONS W I T H S H AY S A N D I F O R D BY SCOTT STANFIELD
Shay Sandiford of Courtenay is among 12 athletes who have been selected to Canada’s first-ever national skateboard team. The 23-year-old earned a spot on the street side of the team. The other discipline is park. Both streams of the sport will debut at the Olympic Games this summer in Tokyo.
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The Olympic team is expected to be selected in July. Street boarding is based on obstacles seen in a city’s downtown core, such as stairs, hand rails and ledges. The park discipline competes in an enclosed bowl.
What is a skill you’d like to learn and why? I’d like to expand my knowledge of investing and business, so I can do so wisely.
“Kind of like a drained out swimming pool,” said Sandiford, a 2015 graduate of Vanier Secondary in Courtenay who now resides in Los Angeles. He honed his skills on a backyard ramp constructed by his father. He also learned how to board at the Lewis skatepark and at the Big House, which was the indoor skatepark at the time. He later spent most of his high school years at the Isfeld skatepark in Courtenay.
What’s something you’re really proud of? I am proud and honoured to have been selected to the first ever Canadian national skateboarding team. Also, I recently got approved for a P-1 work visa which allows me to live in the U.S. for five years, which has been a longtime dream of mine. What is a random fact about you that few people might know? I am half Japanese and can speak Japanese fluently. It’s a pandemic. Coffee, tea or other - what is your go-to drink? I don’t really drink either but I’m always down for a healthy smoothie.
Where would you spend a long time doing nothing (or relaxing)? I honestly don’t like relaxing for any longer than a day or a weekend max. I get way too antsy and feel the need to do something productive. Either through skateboarding or recreationally, where is your favourite place to travel? Probably Japan; I’ve always loved traveling to new places but my favourite places have been the ones with unique cultures. It always intrigues me when people from different countries have such a different day-to-day life compared to what I grew up with. What makes your heart beat faster? Any time I’m competing or gambling. What has been your biggest challenge in skateboarding so far? As weird as it may sound, I feel like I’m really finding myself within my skateboarding recently. By that I mean that I’m doing what I like and what really makes me happy rather than just trying to do the hardest tricks all of the time. Which has actually helped me improve and makes me feel more confident on the board when approaching new tricks. What’s worse: L.A. traffic or a snow day in the Comox Valley?
What’s your favourite memory in the Comox Valley? All the summers I spent there while I was growing up. So many good memories.
I’m going to have to say a snow day in the Comox Valley. It’s nice for the first hour but I get over it so fast. Especially when it freezes and just stays on the ground for a week. That’s the worst.
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