COMPASS MAGAZINE VI | ISSUE 47 OCT/NOV 2023

ISSUE 47 REINVENTION · OCTOBER + NOVEMBER 2023 Sharing the Direction of Vancouver Island Communities

SPONSORED COPIES FREE INSTORE OR RETAIL PURCHASE $5CAD

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Coastal Chronicles THE HUNT FOR AMMONITE

Wellness Artist LYNN GRAY’S ELEVATE’D WARES Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 1

Start here, fly anywhere Open up the world from your back door. Comox Valley Airport offers WestJet, Air Canada and Pacific Coastal Airline departures connecting you to anywhere you want to travel.

visit comoxairport.com

2 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

6

8

Sharing the Direction of Vancouver Island Communities

6 8 10 14

14

18

22

18

WE ARE ART

YQQ+CVA+Compass Gallery & Gifts=Party!

Kristina Campbell

COASTAL CHRONICLES A Guide to Ammonite Hunting on Vancouver Island Dave Flawse

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Big Island Book Fest's Award-winning Authors

JP Bailey

FEATURE ARTIST

Trevor Hunt at Spirits of the West Coast Gallery T’ŁALIS - Pushing Boundaries

WELLNESS ARTIST

Lynn Gray | ElevATE'd Ware

Kealy Donaldson

20

STAY WELL

22

WALKING IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS

26

Reinventing Yourself

Dana Mahon

How Coca-Cola Shook Up the Island's Soda Industry

Dalys Barney

SHIFT HAPPENS

Guilt: The Gift That Keeps On Giving Andrea Wagemaker

WWW.COMPASSMAGAZINE.CA

Painting the Wild Blue Wonder:

Lynda Glover

September 26 to October 21, 2023

Brushworks

October 24 to November 18, 2023 Members Christmas Show

November 21 to December 21, 2023

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

­

Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 3

Time to Get Muddy

COMPASS MAGAZINE ISSUE 47 · OCTOBER + NOVEMBER 2023

Publisher's Note Reinvention We’ve all been there—not happy with ourselves, not happy with life, not happy with our jobs or businesses. Life is challenging and if it were easy, everyone would be kicking it. Sometimes life calls for changes – big or small – and you must TRY to move forward the best you can to meet your own expectations! TRY is an acronym for Time to Reinvent Yourself. What does this look like? It means taking some time to do a deep dive within and find the pieces of your life that you are unhappy with. Reflect upon what bothers you the most and what is not working for you, your life or your business and find a new path to where you want to be! It takes goal setting, commitment and the drive to get there, but it is possible! Whether you are trying to be healthier, achieve a better education or take your career or business to the next level, it can be done. Keep a positive outlook and attitude towards your specific changes w goals, in mind, and the path will provide what’s needed along the way. There will be bumps – expect that you will experience setbacks; this is temporary, find your way back to the path and move towards your expectations of reinvention!

Gilakas’la, Emote, Marsii

Kealy Donaldson PUBLISHER

compassmagazine@ourmail.com www.compassmagazine.ca

MAGAZINE PUBLISHER Kealy Donaldson

COVER

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jessie Stones

Trevor Hunt

The Compass Magazine is produced on Vancouver Island, printed on the West Coast of British Columbia and published on Vancouver Island paper by: Kiki's Communications Inc. ISSN# 2369-8063 101-1811 Comox Ave Comox, BC V9M 3L9 250.203.1880 compassmagazine@ourmail.com www.compassmagazine.ca To Advertise & Subscribe Kealy: 250.203.1880 In-Store Purchase $5 Back Issues $10 Annual Subscription $50 6 Issues

3 1 2 5 N O RT H I S L A N D H I G H WAY 2 5 0. 2 8 6.0752 | 1. 87 7. 2 8 6.0752

T'Lalis Mask

CONTRIBUTORS JP Bailey Dalys Barney Kristina Campbell Kealy Donaldson Dave Flawse Luna Loiseau-Tremblay Dana Mahon Andrea Wagemaker

CONNECT WITH US Facebook | LinkedIn Kealy Donaldson

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

W W W. C A M P B E L L R I V E R BOAT L A N D. C A Entire magazine contents are copyright. All rights reserved.

4 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

On November 1, Mid Island Gifts will transform & relaunch as

Compass Gallery + Gifts

Join us on Wednesday, November 1st at YQQ 8.30 AM Ribbon Cutting w Coffee & Treats 5 PM CV Chamber of Commerce Members Mixer 5.30 PM CV Arts Exhibition Opening 6 PM Champagne Toast & Shopping Specials at Compass Gallery + Gifts Local Indigenous and Artisan Crafted Jewellery in Sterling Silver & more!

Local Art & Artisan Pieces, Children's Toys, Puzzles, Scarves & Books!

We Are Your Stocking Stuffer Headquarters!

Over 1,000 Holiday Ornaments to choose from 107 - 1250 Knight Road | In the heart of YQQ Comox Airport Comox | BC | 250.339.0332

www.thecompassartgallery.com

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 5

© Rawpixel.com

WE ARE ART YQQ+CVA+Compass Gallery & Gifts K R I ST INA CA M P B ELL

NOVEMBER 1 IS GOING to be an exciting evening at the

“We invite you to consider the polarities you observe

YQQ airport with three separate events converging to

and navigate as an artist, and the places of convergence

create a splash!

and junction where differences can be conciliated in

For the past decade Comox Valley Arts has been curating an annual exhibition in partnership with YQQ. This year’s theme is “Polarities and Junctions”. The selection

nature, in communities, and in global conversations.”

Submissions for the exhibition close on October 15, visit comoxvalleyarts.com/what-we-do/yqq for details.

committee chooses from central island artist submis-

The opening reception for this exhibition coincides

sions to showcase their work in this high profile setting.

with the grand opening of Compass Gallery & Gifts at

“An ongoing effort of Comox Valley Arts has been to move away from seeing art as a form of beautification and towards thinking about art as a way to spark inquiry, conversation and bridge differences. This theme offers artists a literal or abstract avenue for approaching a creative response,” says Executive Director Jennifer Casey.

6 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

YQQ and the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce (CVCC) Business After Business mixer. Compass Gallery & Gifts supports the ‘Island Good’ initiative, a non-profit initiative of the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance that makes it easy to find products made and grown on Vancouver Island and the neighbouring rural islands.

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

This reflects owner Kealy Donaldson’s strong commitment to local artists and artisans, introducing tourists and locals alike to the fabulous products made right here on Vancouver Island. Compass Gallery and Gifts is filled with locally produced jewelry, art, and delicious food products.

The event begins at 5:30 pm with live music and a champagne toast at 6pm hosted by Compass Gallery & Gifts. There will be a no-host beer and wine bar, charcuterie and desserts are compliments of Compass General Store (Sister store to the Gallery and located in Downtown Comox). The gift shop will be loaded with holiday ornaments at Compass Gallery & Gifts, with artist Kelly Everill on hand to personalize ornaments as you shop.

Tickets for the event are available through comoxvalleychamber.com/events

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 7

Cretaceous Seas © Dan Bowen, VIPS

C O A S TA L C H R O N I C L E S A Guide to Ammonite Hunting on Vancouver Island DAV E FLAWSE

IF YOU TOOK A DIP in a shallow sea in the deep past,

Coordinator Dan Bowen wears a weathered baseball

you’d likely be doggy paddling alongside ammonites.

hat. Twin brothers, who are around 15 years old, both

These predatory marine mollusks were related to

sport blue jeans. One wears glasses, and rain drops be-

squids and octopuses but had a hard, chambered shell,

speckle the lenses. Their grandma is tucked in a coat.

similar to the modern-day nautilus. After 330-million

Another middle-aged woman arrives with a smile. She

years mastering the world’s oceans, ammonites went

waves then stuffs her hands deep back into her jacket

extinct with the dinosaurs 65 million years ago.

pockets. Bowen scans the five in his charge. His curt instructions speak both to experience and subdued

Their fossilized shells can be found around the globe,

anticipation at the day’s promise: using a hammer to

including on Vancouver Island. But they can be dif-

crack open concretions, cemented sedimentary rocks

ficult to find. The Vancouver Island Paleontological

that conceal fossils like prehistoric time capsules.

Society (VIPS) offers fossil hunting excursions to its members. On a tour you are likely to find, among other things, ammonites.

You all break and meet again at Shelter Point south of Campbell River. It’s supposed to be a falling tide, but the waves spew white foam against the driftwood

You arrive at VIPS headquarters on a quiet street where

at the top of the beach. Bowen suggests the group gets

a group huddles against the wind and drizzle. Fieldtrip

a coffee to wait out the storm surge.

8 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Hands wrap around warm cups. One twin tells you his favourite type of dinosaur—something-something-asaurus. You say, “Cool” and nod. The other makes funny faces behind his brother’s back. Grandma chats with the middle-aged woman. Bowen sighs at the worsening storm and decides the group won’t go fossil hunting after all. But like any good leader he has a backup plan.

table. Behind them are more tables full of ammonites.

At the front Bowen wields a wooden meter-ruler. He points at parts of ammonites on the projector screen and describes in technical detail how to distinguish between a few dozen of the over 10,000 types. Some species, like the funky, trombone-shaped heteromorph, don’t even look like ammonites. Others grew larger than truck tires. Each slide brings up a new picture.

The cream carpet feels soft on your feet. A retired-age

From your vantage point at the back, you see nods and

couple in tie-died shirts have invited the gang into

the hear the accompanying “hmms” and “oohs”—the

their home. They extract a treasure rock from one of

sounds of epiphany.

their display cases. A treasure rock is a concretion that contains many fossils, in this instance over a dozen ammonites the size of drink coasters. The twins jostle for position to get the closest; excited breath warms the ammonites. Bowen snaps pictures for a presentation he’s making.

The walls are adorned floor to ceiling with glass display cases. Fossils have burst out of them to lay on the plush carpet or on top of and below various other furniture items—end tables, the fireplace mantel, sturdy chairs. More fossils hide under the glass top of a coffee table. This is an easy place to find fossils.

After a lengthy round of questions, the presentation moves to the ammonites waiting on the back tables.

A woman clutches an ammonite the size of a watermelon. “Oooh,” she says, “Look at that, eh.” A man next to her pulls out a magnify glass attached to his nylon necklace to inspect the fine details.

For the first time since you began your odyssey to find an ammonite, you wonder why people do this. Is it the dopamine rush of cracking a concretion to discover what treasure awaits inside? Is it a need to deck out your home with all your best finds? Is it a desire to further humankind’s understanding of life on earth? Or

Satisfied with the skills you’ve gained collecting ammo-

is it the search for comfort? Not just of plush carpets,

nites, you want to learn more about the science of pa-

but the comfort that comes with connection to human

leontology, so you attend the 14th British Columbia Pa-

beings—the shared experience of the hunt.

leontological Symposium at the University of Victoria.

As the fossil enthusiasts mill about room B119, their

In B119, Undergraduate Lab C, Bowen presents Su-

excited chatter and laughter fill the room. Surrounded

tures, Septas and Siphuncles: Identifying Ammonites

by hundreds of ammonites, they are as close as they

with Ease. You’re late and find a seat near the back. Five

will ever get to swimming in the shallow seas of the

long tables are arranged like city blocks. The glow of

past. In this moment you’re satisfied that you’ve got

the projector shines on the faces crowed around each

this ammonite hunting thing mostly figured out.

Embreeoceras retaxa. Found by the late Doug Embree, VIPS

Swiftsure at the Captain Cook Museum © Bill Maximick

Found by Mike Inglin, VIPS W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 9

W.L. Hawkin

Diana Stevan

Image courtesy bluehavenpress.com

Image courtesy DianaStevan.com

O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H Two for One: Big Island Book Fest Hosts Award Winning Authors JP B A ILEY THIS YEAR, THE BIG ISLAND Book Fest hosts two

When Diana isn’t writing, she loves to travel and read.

outstanding, award-winning members of the Writer’s

She is currently working on a collection of short sto-

Union of Canada. Diana Stevan and W. L. Hawkin are

ries and a non-fiction book combining her impres-

among 50 authors you can meet and talk to at Big Is-

sions of 25 years as a family therapist with her love for

land Book Fest on October 14, 2023, in Courtenay.

gardening.

Diana Stevan likes to joke that she’s a Jill-of-all-trades—

W. L. Hawkin started writing 30 years ago when she

she has worked as a therapist, teacher, librarian, mod-

went through a relationship upheaval whilst also be-

el, actress and sports reporter for CBC television. In

ginning a degree in Indigenous Studies at Trent Uni-

addition, Stevan has written and published five novels

versity in Ontario. She says it was a traumatic but also

and a novelette.

exciting time in her life. The healing she experienced

Stevan’s novels cross genres: from romantic mystery/ adventure to women’s fiction, to Lukia’s Family Saga trilogy, historical/biographical fiction based on her

was revealed through the characters in her first novel. She recently published it as Lure: Jesse & Hawk, and won a National Indie Excellence Award.

Ukrainian grandmother’s life in Russia and in Canada.

W. L. is multi-genre writer, weaving together urban

The trilogy titles are: Sunflowers Under Fire, Lilacs in the

fantasy, speculative fiction, romance, thriller, and

Dust Bowl, and Paper Roses on Stony Mountain.

mystery, with a diverse cast of characters. Her

1 0 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

five-book

series,

the

Hollystone

Mysteries,

fea-

ture a bisexual gothic magician and coven high priest, who travels to save his family and friends...

W. L.’s books are set in the Pacific Northwest, and in Scotland and Ireland, so you can read and travel at the same time. Her latest installment is a vampire thriller with a romantic thread.

When asked about the Writer’s Union of Canada, W. L. had this to say, “The WUC is a solid organization that supports writers in diverse ways. This year is their 50th anniversary. They provide a community where authors and publishers can seek advice, sponsorship, and training.”

Both Diana and W. L. receive funding through the Union’s National Public Reading Program, and you can hear each of them read at the Big Island Book Fest.

Saturday, October 14th at the Florence Filberg Centre in Courtenay, 411 Anderton Ave, 10am to 4 pm For more info, visit www.bigislandbookfest.com

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 1 1

FOOD FOR THOUGHT National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Honouring the observation of National Day for Truth

honour the children who never returned home and

and Reconciliation in alignment with the federal gov-

survivors of residential schools, as well as their fami-

ernment on September 30th. The day is committed to

lies and communities. This day is to commemorate the

learning and reconciling with the Indigenous People in

tragic, painful history, legacy and ongoing impacts of

your region.

residential schools in Canada.

The federal government officially designated the

In observance, most businesses will be closed on Mon-

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a day to

day, Oct 2nd and there are numerous community

1 2 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

events being held on that day. In Campbell River, the Strathcona Gardens Recreation Complex has minimized its operations on September 30 and are offering free family events in the afternoon.

On September 30th, you are encouraged to honour this day, through personal reflection, education, participating in awareness activities in your community or by wearing orange to raise awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools.

For more information about National Day for Truth

CAMPBELL RIVER, BC • 250-286-3344 • THUNDERBIRDRVPARK.COM

and Reconciliation and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 calls to action, please visit the Government of Canada's website at www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/national-day-truth-reconciliation.html

It’s Sto r

m Watching Season at the Cottages!

Organizations hosting free events and webinars for Truth and Reconciliation: Laichwiltach Family Life Society – 8th Annual Every Child Matters Walk, Sat. Sept 30th 11:00 am Campbell River, Spirit Square. Hosting ceremony and light lunch

OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND WATERSIDE COTTAGES • 1 & 2 BEDROOM OCEANVIEW RV SITES 30 & 50 AMP SERVICE TBIRDATTYEESPIT

VANCOUVER ISLAND, BC

to follow.

The Gord Downie Chenie Wenjack Fund - free webinar on Mon. Oct. 2 @ 2:00 EDT, Intergeneration Resilience: Sharing Stories from Families of Residential School Survivors. downiewenjack.ca/events/ The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation is hosting a series of online learning opportunities related to Truth and Reconciliation. All are welcome – Join daily lunch and learns. www.eventbrite.ca/e/truth-and-reconciliation-week-2023-public-lunch-and-learns-tickets-704876573807?aff=oddtdtcreator For reading, watching, or listening materials explore the Vancouver Island Regional Library Indigenous Interest page: virl.bc.ca/read-watch-listen/audience/indigenous/ To donate to Indigenous Charities: www.canadahelps. org/en/donate-to-indigenous-charities Purchase an orange t-shirt from an Indigenous Designer in Canada: www.vanmag.com/style/fashion/ where-to-purchase-orange-shirtsfor-canada-day/ W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 1 3

T’ŁALIS

PUSHING BOUNDARIES

T REVOR HUNT ©Zac Whyte

1 4 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

NOW SHOWING AT SPIRITS OF THE WEST COAST ART GALLERY is “T’ŁALIS – Pushing Boundaries”, an art exhibition and sale featuring carvings by contemporary Indigenous artist Trevor Hunt (given name “T’łalis” translating to “A pod of Killer Whales swimming towards a village) of the Kwakiutl Nation. The exhibition is running until December 30th, 2023 at their Courtenay Gallery.

This exhibition and sale is showcasing Hunt’s innovative methods for approaching traditional Northwest Coast designs and motifs through a contemporary lens, while retaining a deep respect and recognition for the artistic and cultural traditions of his people. Through the incorporation of non-traditional colours, designs, mediums, and techniques, Hunt’s work pushes the boundaries of the Kwakiutl art form into the future.

On display are one-of-a-kind masterpieces, including a monumental steering paddle, dramatic masks, bold panels and paddles, spirited metalwork, as well as a complex and exquisite Orca Moon Mask. Each piece is rooted in tradition, but with a contemporary flare.

“We have been working together with Trevor for close to 15 years and I am always surprised by the innovative approaches Trevor has come up with.” says Gallery Co-Owner Walter Stolting.

“His bold use of colours and his impeccable design, carving and finishing skills have made every piece we purchased from him a perfectly executed one of a kind beautiful piece of artwork. To top it off he has a very humble approach towards customized wishes, making nearly everything possible, as long as it is in harmony with his drive for excellence and artistic principles.”

Pushing the boundaries of the Kwakiutl art form into the future.

“I enjoy pushing myself on each piece, to be constantly changing and evolving,” says Hunt. “I've never made the same mask twice. Every piece is unique to its own, and every piece to me has a part of me in it, made with dedication, love and patience.”

Hunt is part of the Kwakiutl Nation in the village of T’sakis (or Fort Rupert, BC) on Northeastern Vancouver Island. As a small community of about 300 members, this village has been teeming with culture and art for thousands of years.

As part of the Hunt Family, one of the most recognized families of the Northwest Coast, they have generations of internationally acclaimed artists and carvers including Trevor’s father, Stan Hunt, his grandfather, Henry Hunt, and his great-grandfather, Mungo Martin, one of the most influential Kwakwaka’wakw members in recent history.

Kwakiutl artists have always been considered among the most innovative of the Northwest Coast, implementing the principles of traditional formline design with a less confining, more individualistic and theatrical approach towards form, colour, expression, and storytelling.

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

T’ŁALIS – Pushing Boundaries can be viewed at the gallery and virtually. Admission is free, and visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation for our “Small Acts, Big Impacts” Food Bank Drive and Fundraiser. Every donor will be entered into a draw for a gift bag valued at $250. www.spiritsofthewestcoast.com Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 1 5

1 6 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

F E AT U R E A R T I S T TREVOR HUNT C A R V E D B E A R PA N E L W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 1 7

WELLNESS ARTIST

LY NN G RAY ElevATE'd Ware K EA LY D ONA LD SON

WHEN LYNN GRAY STARTED HAND stamping her mom’s

vintage silverware, it had sat in her closet for years before she gave much thought to what to do with it.

Then one day she came across a cool gallery, saw some hand stamping on another product, and was inspired to try it on her own silverware collection.

There were lots of mistakes in the beginning, but she worked her way through them to bring a lovely finished product to the market via Facebook and Etsy. She was thrilled when she started receiving sales and positive response from buyers. Working with her heightened sense of humour, Lynn came up with sayings and mantras for the stamping process on the silverware. Her favourites are her cocktails statements—especially the martini ones—and the sentimental sayings. “They are near and dear,” she says. Then people started to phone her to give her their vintage silverware. It has all been a learning process along the way.

She can’t quite remember when she started burning boards, but she bought herself a standard set of burning equipment and started with wood pieces and practiced until she got better at it. When she sold her first piece, Gray was ecstatic, to say the least. It inspired her and affirmed that she was heading in the right direction.

At that point, design wasn’t as important as getting the product looking right and having happy clients. That was in 2019—and she hasn’t looked back!

Today, she has mastered her art. Through another process of community development, Gray got involved on a personal level with Grassroots Kind Hearts and helped structure that society into a formal non-profit.

That led to some amazing relationships in the Campbell River community and ideas that coincided with the development of her charcuterie boards to bring an 1 8 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Indigenous flair to the design. She connected with Gina Hunt (Kwakiutl) and Ken Cooper (Nuxalk) as part of her journey and contribution to Grassroots Kind Hearts.

They felt out the possibility of working together and came together in an amazing way. When you see Gray’s work married with the artistry of Hunt and Cooper, it elevates the piece to another level. Embellished with hand-pulled cedar braids, local shell, devils club and beads, they have absolutely created a unique one of a kind artisan offering. It truly doesn’t compare to anything else you have ever seen.

The knowledge and connection that Hunt (Wa Dzi Di) and Cooper (Kluquachee) bring to the table is authentic and heart-warming; Gray says she is honoured to work them. They continue to harvest and prepare embellishments for these stunning pieces, and share their insights throughout the year. You can view their website at cedarspiritcreations.com.

With the Christmas season on the horizon, Gray is extremely busy. She is preparing for Christmas Shows, expanding her online presence, and busy creating her gorgeous one of kind gifts. Her work is now available at the new Compass General Store in Downtown Comox.

You can visit her website, and follow her gorgeous art work on social media. f @Elevatedware.com

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 1 9

© Maew

S TAY W E L L Reinventing Yourself DA NA M A H ON

WHOOOOO ARE YOU? WHO WHO, WHO WHO? Does that song reference date me? It’s by The Who circa 1979. Imagine if you could become somebody new simply by deciding?

I turned 50 in August and I would say I’ve reinvented myself (talking major changes here), roughly 10 times in the last 20 years, 6 of which have been in the last 5 years; not because I’m flaky, unsettled or indecisive.

Au contraire. Rather, I felt when it was time to forge a new path, and I trusted it was the right one. Spoiler alert, it is always the right one or we wouldn’t be on it.

I’ve relocated several times, moved at 43 to a town where I only knew one person; became a barista at 44 (read: being trained by 18 year olds!), opened a yoga studio, years later closer said space, leaving my sole

2 0 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

revenue behind, wrote and released my first book at 45, moved to a farm to live in an RV at 47, and am now living on the incredible North Island, developing a wellness retreat called Nature’s Edge. I share these examples as a reminder that it is never too late to become a new you.

So how do we know if it is reinvention we are seeking/ considering, vs just a break from what can feel like mundanity or routine. How do we decipher restlessness from that deep desire to be or do or have something truly different?

For me, the answer comes from inside. It isn’t the result of a shiny new thing dangling in front of me, or because I’m bored. This feeling often comes following a significant experience that causes me to pause, reflect, and then quite often to shift. It is as though

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

“growing pains” guide the next move. In other words,

Depending on where we’re at in our lives, it can seem

when I require and desire an entirely different space,

daunting or even impossible to reinvent ourselves.

one that will support forging a new path, I know it’s

Yet when we think of coming up with new ways of do-

time. It isn’t a rash or hasty decision, but one met with

ing a familiar task, or even giving suggestions on how

quiet contemplation and intention.

someone else might reinvent themselves, it seems

When we reinvent ourselves from a space of knowing,

possible, doable, or even exciting. Why is that?

feeling and trusting, it is vastly different than coming

It seems the more established we are, the older we get

from escapism, confusion or grasping.

and the more we believe (consciously or otherwise)

What about fear of the unknown? Hesitation. Doubt.

The more we practice trusting, the easier it gets to take “leaps of faith”. When we believe that with some (calculated) risk, good intention, relaxing into things, and a letting go (trust), that we can have what lever it is we seek, then we are rewarded with that very thing.

Once we land on our feet a few times, stepping off the safety platform becomes less terrifying. This doesn’t mean there won’t be some fear, hesitation or doubt, but those things will eventually be replaced with ea-

the message society leads us to believe i.e. play small, stay safe, that’s too hard, or that we’re too old to start over, when it comes to forging a new path for ourselves we are often the first ones to entertain doubt, yet when friends or even strangers share their desire to quit their job and open a their dream business, or sell everything and move abroad, or run away with a new lover whom they haven’t know for long, or… insert your own example, we would likely be the first ones to cheer them on. We read about these people all the time and more often than not we think, wow,

gerness, action and belief.

how amazing! But we rarely see ourselves as the very

We can never be certain of the exact outcome in ad-

are!

vance but we can certainly paint the picture of our most desired outcome and manifest it, or close to it, into our existence and reality. Worst that happens…?

We “fail” which we all know is just an F word that re-

people who can do the same, but we most certainly

Reinventing ourselves doesn’t always need to be monumental, especially if it is extremely uncomfortable at first. Perhaps the first kick at the can is starting

ally means learn.

to speak up a bit more, letting the world know who

The key to reinventing ourselves is simple. Do you

relationships (personal, professional or otherwise)

want to? If you do, then you can. Remain open to the

that no longer serve you, preparing for ones that do.

possibility that something greater than us is at play

Perhaps it is in fact moving, opening that business,

and is showing us where to go

traveling around the world, or writing your book!

next. If we knew how things would turn out ahead of time, life would be boring hehe, but if we can trust the journey, even a bit, life becomes a lot more fun, especially during reinventions!

you are and what you have to say! Perhaps it is leaving

Whatever it is, just know that we are ALWAYS becoming, and reinventing ourselves is part of pur evolution and growth because life is never static. As long as we ask for what we want, we can have it, just breathe easy, knowing it is all on its way to you.

Buying? I'll find your Dream Home Selling? No-obligation Free Market Evaluation SUSAN MALLINSON

REALTOR® at Royal Lepage Advance Realty cell: 250.203.3545 office: 250.286.3293 toll-free: 1.888.286.1932 email: susanmallinson@royallepage.ca Serving the communities of

Sayward · Campbell River

www.susanmallinson.com W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 2 1

Island bottling plant on Fifth Street, Nanaimo Image courtesy Nanaimo Community Archives. 2018010A-P116

WA L K I N G I N T H E I R F O O T S T E P S HOW COCA-COLA SHOOK UP VANCOUVER ISLAND’S SODA INDUSTRY Big soda bubbled to the top during the 20th century, upending decades of local soda tradition DA LYS B A R NEY

Editor’s note: The following is an

WHEN HIS NANAIMO ANTIQUE store of more than

excerpt from Dalys Barney’s book,

30 years was closing, Curiosity Cove owner Gerald

Message on a Bottle: Nanaimo’s Soda

Gonske reminisced about how customers were of-

History. She discussed the ongoing

ten looking for items that represented the city. "'Peo-

project during an Island Notables

ple would ask, "What do you have that's a symbol of

interview last year.

Nanaimo?"' Gonske said. 'I couldn't have anything better than a Rumming's bottle.'"

You can learn more, or purchase her booklet, at vanislehistoryexplorer.ca

In 1889, a 20-year-old William Edward Rumming and his older brother Charles Henry Rumming set out from Liverpool, England with Vancouver Island as their intended destination. By the time of the 1891

2 2 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

census, William Rumming was living in Nanaimo's

flavoured sodas, notably lemon, lime, and orange fla-

Middle Ward and working as a soda water maker. He

vours) and Hires Root Beer. The book Soda Kings of

had joined John Mitchell at the Pioneer Soda Water

B.C. & the Yukon says, "By the 1920s, an affiliation with

Works on Wallace Street.

a national brand was a key strategy to success. Certainly by the 1940s national or international brands were

By the fall of 1892, John Mitchell and William Rum-

sold in almost every town in British Columbia."

ming were more than just colleagues at Pioneer Soda Water Works, they were also brothers-in-law. John Mitchell married William Rumming's sister Emma Eliza on September 24, 1892. Unfortunately, within just a few years, John Mitchell died on March 21, 1895.

For a period of time after William Rumming assumed control of the company, Pioneer Soda Water Works used bottles with W.E. Rumming's name embossed vertically on them instead of John Mitchell's. Just before the turn of the 20th century, the standard Rumming bottle changed to the one with the embossed crossed pick and shovel that local bottle collectors know and love.

In the 1920s, William Rumming faced a new competitor in the soda market…one by the name of Coca-Cola.

According to the book Soda Kings of B.C. & the Yukon, "This largest of international soda companies arrived in British Columbia in 1907 on an agency basis with Cross & Company [of Vancouver], but Coca-Cola was initially poorly received by the local market."

The brand didn't seem to take off on the Island: "After the Vancouver plant opened in 1921, Coca-Cola tried shipping their bottled pop to the island from Vancouver but found it unprofitable, despite attempts

Coca-Cola bottled by William Rumming in Nanaimo

by several managers." However, in May of 1922, a Co-

would not have been bottled in these Bastion bottles,

ca-Cola-owned bottling plant was opened in Nanaimo

but in its own distinctive contour bottles. Coca-Cola's

on Selby Street and produced 2000 dozen bottles of

iconic 6.5 ounce "hoop skirt" or "Mae West" bottle had

Coca-Cola daily.

been originally introduced in 1915 and came to Canada around 1919. To maintain its brand image, Co-

The Nanaimo bottling plant was just one piece of Co-

ca-Cola insisted that all local bottlers used the distinc-

ca-Cola's Canadian manufacturing and distribution

tive bottle. As well as needing its own bottles, bottling

system which, according to a 1923 advertisement, in-

Coca-Cola was not without its challenges. "All Coke

cluded four syrup factories, 21 bottling plants, and five

bottlers were required to maintain strict production

warehouses across the country.

standards which were far more stringent than any other brand of the era."

Perhaps predicting the impact having a Coca-Cola branch right in his own town might have on his busi-

The Rumming enterprise had a name change to Rum-

ness, Rumming made arrangements to start bottling

ming's Limited and continued to expand on Vancou-

two well-known brands – Kist (a brand from the Cit-

ver Island. In 1943, William Rumming retired and sold

rus Products Company that included a line of fruit

the business to three men with experience working for

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 2 3

Coca-Cola. William Rumming died in Victoria in 1957.

Beverages in 1989.) When the new bottling structure was announced, Coca-Cola's own bottling plants pro-

When Rumming's Limited was sold to Gene Koster in

duced about 55 per cent of the company's sales. By

1953 it became Island Bottling Company. Koster had

1991, as franchise bottlers were absorbed, Coca-Cola

worked with Coca-Cola in Regina before serving in

Beverages accounted for 93 per cent of sales in Cana-

World War II, and he later worked at the company's

da and was the fourth-largest Coca-Cola bottler in the

Moose Jaw plant.

world, with nineteen plants and sixty-two distribution centres. Today, all Coca-Cola products are bottled in

Goodwill Bottling of Victoria bought Island Bottling in

Canada by Coca-Cola Beverages."

1965. Goodwill Bottling had been started by Edward Gudewill in June of 1954 when he purchased the Old

This trend played out locally, both on the Island and

English Beverage Company, a licensed bottler of Co-

at a provincial level. Coca-Cola bought Wometco in

ca-Cola, on Johnson Street in Victoria.

1984, including its British Columbia division. At the time, Wometco was one of North America's largest

In 1955, the company moved to a former knitting mill

Coca-Cola franchise bottlers, consisting of over a doz-

on Erie Street, near Fisherman's Wharf. Over the next

en bottling plants and dozens of distribution facilities.

24 years the company expanded throughout Vancouver Island and across the B.C. mainland with seven

On the Island, Goodwill Bottling was sold to Beatrice

more franchise acquisitions.

Companies Inc. in 1983, which was in turn sold to the American Coca-Cola Company in 1986, and then to

This was a time of consolidation, not only in British

Coca-Cola Canada in 1989. So ended the more than

Columbia soda businesses, but also in the industry at

100-year history of locally owned soda bottlers on

large. Wometco, a Florida-based company that had a

Vancouver Island.

soft drink division as well as cable television and movie theatre interests, was buying up smaller Coca-Cola

International soft drink brands have been dominat-

outfits, including those in British Columbia.

ing the market for decades. But a renewed interest in flavoured carbonated drinks could mean hope yet for

A Vancouver Sun article from 1965 details how Wom-

local soda makers on Vancouver Island.

etco had recently bought Coca-Cola franchises in both Vancouver and Chilliwack, and how "owners of the

Just think about how many flavoured sparkling water

Victoria and Nanaimo franchises turned down Wom-

and speciality soda choices there are now at the gro-

etco's offer."

cery store. People seem to be ready for different soft drink options, especially ones that are organic, tradi-

By the late 1980s, Coca-Cola had begun acquiring

tional, or locally made.

Canadian bottlers in earnest. T.C.C. Bottling Limited was formed in Canada by Coca-Cola in 1987 and ac-

With the rise in popularity of craft brewing, as well

cording to the book Canada’s Coca-Cola, the compa-

as a "buy local" trend amplified during the global

ny, "was acquiring the franchise bottling rights of the

COVID-19 pandemic, it seems as if companies offer-

many independent bottlers across the country. (T.C.C.

ing these products could be on the right track to re-

Bottling's name would be changed to Coca-Cola

establishing the Island's thriving soda industry.

2 4 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

© Byron Moore

LOCAL NEWS YQQ Commences Non-stop Service on WestJet to Puerto Vallarta!

Comox Valley Airport is launching a new Fall schedule highlighting twice weekly non-stop service to Puerto

YQQ FALL 2023 NON-STOP SERVICE SCHEDULE

Vallarta with WestJet. Starting Saturday November 4th,

5x Daily flights to Vancouver

non-stop flights will depart every Saturday and Tuesday, with returning flights on Friday and Mondays—

2x Daily to Calgary

doubling the direct service to sunny Mexico just in

1x Daily to Edmonton

time for the winter weather.

2x Weekly Puerto Vallarta

"The strong demand for service to Puerto Vallarta last season prompted WestJet to increase the non-stop of-

Fall schedules come into effect after Labour Day, with

ferings on this popular route, demonstrating WestJet's

Air Canada and WestJet adapting for seasonal demand

on-going commitment to Vancouver Islanders for fly-

to provide connectivity through all three hubs. Trav-

ing out of YQQ. As the only non-stop sun destination

ellers are encouraged to book early for the best flight

available north of the Malahat, we look forward to

options.

seeing travellers from central and northern Vancouver Island to taking advantage of the direct flights."

The Comox Valley Airport Commission (CVAC) is a

said Airport CEO Mike Atkins. "While there are daily

federally incorporated, non-profit entity, established

connecting flights to almost anywhere in the World,

through letters patent in 1996.

when you are just looking for a sunny break, it is nice to avoid the busy hubs, particularly over the holidays."

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

For more information, visit www.comoxairport.com Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 2 5

© fizkes

SHIFT HAPPENS Guilt : The Gift That Keeps on Giving ANDREA WAGEMAKER LET’S FACE IT, we all know the feeling. For some of us it

“In this way, man wounds himself, this master of

can be our daily bread. It’s the feeling that rubs us like

destruction, of self-torture.” It is such a waste of ener-

salt in a wound, that has us feeling resentful, empty,

gy, a regret that has no business in our day-to-day life.

full of self-doubt, and simply depleted for a number

It accomplished by nothing more than a simple sham-

of reasons. It may have been for something we did,

ing device that weakens the spirit to ensure things stay

something we think you did, something we shouldn’t

just the way they are.

have done, something we didn’t do enough of, something we’re doing better than everyone else. I’m sure

I grew up believing guilt was a time-honored tradition

if I wanted to write a listicle on the subject, it could fill

passed from generation to generation like my grand-

a page. Maybe even stretch into infinity. Who knows?

mother’s secret recipe for cinnamon buns. Ironically, I also believed it was synonymous with child-rearing.

But that’s not the issue here. The real issue is: Why

My mother did it flawlessly to me, my grandmother

does this emotion exist at all?

did it to her, and as messed up as it sounds, I felt the need and imagined that if I too wanted to be a good

Throughout history I imagine the topic has crossed

parent and have such wonderfully well-disciplined

many a great mind. Guilt is a learned state of being.

children, all I needed to do was continue the tradition.

2 6 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Guilt is defined as committing some offense against a moral code. Yet it can also be a feeling, real or imagined, that you have done something wrong. And if you can’t imagine one, there are plenty of triggers ready and willing to come to your aid. Think about it: even the littlest things jump into our minds about diet— Did you eat today? If you did (and be honest now) you probably ate something that contained at least one of the following: fat, salt, caffeine, dairy, egg, MSG, red meat, sugar, nuts, chocolate, gluten or was processed.

On someone’s list you failed to eat correctly. You may have even overeaten. If you’ve managed to avoid all of these pitfalls, you probably feel virtuous and healthy

Pie Factory Amazing Pies NOW Available at COMPASS GENERAL STORE Grocery & Kitchen

and alert. If so, don’t relate your eating habits to me. I

Itʼs ISLAND GOOD!

will feel guilty and eat a cookie. You wouldn’t want that on your conscience.

What does green mean? Green used to just be considered a color, right? But now it is a way of life. Do you

Pick up your favourite pie frozen! Pre-orders welcome! piefactoryorder@ourmail.com

recycle? Get good gas mileage? Take the bus? Hang out your clothes to dry? Compost? Garden? Turn off unused lights? How big is your carbon footprint? The list goes on and on. So how do you stop this conversation in your head?

It is crazy how easily guilt finds its way to our door and, crazier, how we let it in. We let it capture our sense of obligation and then allow it to become a permanent fixture on the shelf of our self-esteem until something snaps inside and we finally say, Screw it! I’ve had enough.

I imagine it might have a lot to do with age, because the older we get the less we give a crap about meaningless things and the opinion of others. It just maybe a wakeup call from the universe to say: thanks for enduring all those guilt-trips I plopped on your plate and carry on.

Either way you look at it, braving the wrath of guilt is a major feat, it is an empowerment over yourself and those crazy mind demons that rule you. As Joan Didion once said, “the willingness to accept responsibility

MENU Lunch & Dinner Time

Roasted Chicken Pot Pie Traditional Tourtiere Pulled Pork + Mushroom Pie Spinach + Feta Roast Beef + Guinness

Pie Any Time

Sweet Peach Pie Grandma’s Apple Cinnamon Best Berry Pie

10" / 6" $26 / $13 $26 / $13 $26 / $13 $26 / $13 $26 / $13 $22 / $11 $22 / $11 $22 / $11

Other Treats @ the Gallery Daily Soup, Fresh Baked Scone & hot bevie $10 Daily Soup - Gluten Free & Non-GMO $6 Scone - plain, savory or sweet $3 Butter Tarts $3 $15 for 6 Muffins - Vegan or Regular $3

for one’s own life is the source from which self-respect springs.”

This is where we start to rebuild, it truly is an inside job from within. We all have the power and foundation to be strong it’s finding the right tools, the right perspective to ensure the walls remain upright you will W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

101-1811 Comox Ave Monday - Friday 9-5.30 | Saturday 10-4 Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 2 7

CUP OF DESTINY Tea Leaf Readings

find that a light bulb finally comes on and a path illuminates that will bring along a magnificent joyfulness in having the opportunity to be ourselves and be okay with who that person is and the decisions we make moving forward.

For me this is the stuff of rare insight I wish I could have told my younger self. That, and a million other things that I suppose would’ve saved me from a lifetime of grief. I realize after years and years of knowing only one thing, emotions will bond together.

With guilt comes shame, yes, the two hang out together – it’s a double-edged whammy of a sword that not only marginalizes us, but paralyzes us and make it which makes it that much harder for us to let go.

Without a doubt. And when it does, try and remember guilt doesn’t always have to be part of the equation.

The puppet master pulling those strings only has the control you give it, so don’t give it. Don’t cave into it, stare it in the face, then cut the damn strings and go live your life for you.

If you need help, Hypnosis and Lucia Light is a wonderful way to get inside the mind and install positive thoughts and change out the old hardware that has been playing out your whole life.

Enjoy a beautiful sit down experience featuring: Authentic Tea Leaf Reading Gorgeous Local Tea + Sweet Treats Fortune Card Reading Monthly Readings in Comox or book your private session!

Book now at shifthappens@shaw.ca or in person at Compass Gallery + Gifts 101 - 1811 Comox Avenue Comox

Like us on Facebook! @CupofDestiny 2 8 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

Andrea Wagemaker Shift Happens & Lucia Light ShiftHypnotherapy.ca • 250-338-3401 W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Compass General Store 101-1811 Comox Avenue in the heart of Comox Weekly Updates & Specials f @CompassGeneralStore

Grocery & Kitchen • • • • • • • • • •

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Featuring Island Good Products Gluten Free, Vegan & Gourmet Farm Veggies & Fresh Eggs Local Baked Goods (GF too!)

Local Butchered Meats & More Pie Factory Pies - Sweet & Savoury in our Frozen Section Flurer Smokery’s Smoked Salmon Portofino Breads Avalon Dairy Local Housewares including Gourmet Kitchen Gadgets & Cutting Boards Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 2 9

Dark-eyed Juncos are adaptable birds and can be found in a variety of habitats, from coniferous and mixed forests to suburban gardens. Around the North Island, they frequent forested areas, where they forage for seeds and insects on the forest floor. While they are often ground feeders, they are also known to visit bird feeders in backyards, adding a touch of charm to your garden.

While Dark-eyed Juncos are found in coastal regions of the North Island during the summer, they are more commonly associated with winter when they migrate to lower elevations. In summer, they seek cooler, more secluded areas, where they build nests on the forest floor or in low shrubs.

Autumn brings an intriguing change in behavior for Dark-eyed Junco (Oregon) © Kerry Hargrove

Dark-eyed Juncos. These birds are migratory, and as temperatures drop, they begin their journey from the higher elevations of Vancouver Island to lower regions.

B A C K YA R D B I R D I N G The Dark-eyed Junco LUN A LOI SE AU -TR EMBLAY AS AUTUMN GENTLY blankets the North Island with its golden hues, the natural world undergoes a quiet transformation. Among the many signs of the season is the appearance of the Dark-eyed Junco, a small and unassuming feathered friend. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a casual observer, take a moment to appreciate the subtle beauty and captivating habits of

Campbell River's milder coastal climate provides a welcoming haven for these winter migrants.

During this season, you'll notice an increase in Darkeyed Junco activity in your yard. They are social birds and tend to forage in small flocks, creating a delightful spectacle for birdwatchers. You may find them pecking at fallen seeds, searching for insects, or taking advantage of your bird feeders.

The Dark-eyed Junco, with its unassuming appearance and intriguing behaviors, adds a touch of magic to the North Island's coastal autumn landscape.

this common yet enigmatic resident of our region.

The Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) is a small sparrow with a distinctive, slate-gray plumage that gives it an air of understated elegance. Its name is derived from the conspicuous dark patch that encircles its eyes, resembling a stylish mask. Often described as the "snowbird," the Dark-eyed Junco features white outer tail feathers, which flash conspicuously in flight.

What truly sets this species apart is its remarkable regional variation in plumage. On Northern Vancouver Island, you're likely to encounter the "Oregon" subspecies, characterized by a pinkish-brown hue on its sides.

These subtle variations in appearance make the Darkeyed Junco a fascinating subject for birdwatchers.

3 0 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

Male Dark-eyed Junco © Danita Delimont

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 47 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 3 1

land GIsFE IOK B ST BO

A WRITERS & READERS EVENT FOR THE ISLANDS IN THE SALISH SEA

ONE VENUE. 15 GENRES. 50 ISLAND AUTHORS.

Saturday October 14, 10am-4pm Florence Filberg Centre, 411 Anderton Avenue, Upper Level Downtown Courtenay

Admission by cash donation.

Meet, mingle, and talk with writers and readers from across the region. Connect with other fans and discuss books. Purchase & take home your winter reading and gifts.

bigislandbookfest.com

Big thanks to our sponsor, Bennett Sheet Metal and Heating, for helping make this event possible.

Over 60 Years of HVAC Solutions for the Comox Valley.

We provide service & installation of heating and air conditioning systems for residential, commercial and industrial clients. bennettsheetmetal.com

Big Island Book Fest is presented by

Generously supported by 3 2 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 7

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A