COMPASS MAGAZINE VANCOUVER ISLAND | Issue 46 Aug/Sept 2023

ISSUE 46 REJUVENATE · AUGUST + SEPTEMBER 2023 Sharing the Direction of Vancouver Island Communities

Fierce + Feisty

Kristi Lane Sinclair

SPONSORED COPIES FREE INSTORE OR RETAIL PURCHASE $5CAD

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Issue 46 |

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Sharing the Direction of Vancouver Island Communities

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Performing Arts Comox Valley

Kristina Campbell

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COASTAL CHRONICLES

10

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

12

14

WE ARE ART

14

Frances Barkley Eighteenth-century Seafarer Dave Flawse

Flower Power!

JD The Flowerman

NORTHWEST COAST NATURE

Elke van Breeman | Art Inspired by Nature Luna Loiseau-Tremblay

WELLNESS ARTIST

Coastlines at Compass Gallery Trish Malcomess

18

Kristi Lane Sinclair | Fierce + Feisty

24

The Power of Gratitude

28

FEATURE ARTIST

SHIFT HAPPENS

Andrea Wagemaker

STAY WELL

DIY Nourishing Body Butter

Dana Mahon

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Issue 46 |

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We have your Bulk Ice!

COMPASS MAGAZINE ISSUE 46 · AUGUST + SEPTEMBER 2023

Publisher's Note Rejuvenation It’s that time of year – the busy season of summer time! Some get the opportunity to relax during this season and for others its work work work with the long days and visitors coming into our beautiful communities. You may be helping Elders through their time of need or watching the young ones through memorable times at the beach or lake. It truly is important to make a little time for yourself to rejuvenate – relax, unwind and recoup!

Whether it’s a quick meditation to clear your head or walk/run through a gorgeous local trail, even simply putting your feet up for a few extra minutes…. to renew your energy, it’s important to recoup by being mindful of your health! With the heat of August and September upon us, rehydrating with water and supplements should be prioritized for everyone and get outside to enjoy the stunning surroundings that all of Vancouver Island has to offer to restore your physical and mental strengths! Happy Summer!

Gilakas’la, Emote, Marsii

Kealy Donaldson PUBLISHER

compassmagazine@ourmail.com www.compassmagazine.ca

JULY & AUGUST

Mon to Fri 7AM-6PM Saturday 9AM-4PM Sundays & holidays 9AM-1PM $1 PER SHOVEL $2 PER BUCKET $10 LARGE FISH BAG

MAGAZINE PUBLISHER Kealy Donaldson

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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

Kristi Lane Sinclair

CONTRIBUTORS JP Bailey Kristina Campbell Kealy Donaldson Dave Flawse JD The Flowerman Luna Loiseau-Tremblay Trish Malcomess Dana Mahon Andrea Wagemaker

CONNECT WITH US Facebook | LinkedIn Kealy Donaldson

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

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Entire magazine contents are copyright. All rights reserved.

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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

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Issue 46 |

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WE ARE ART Performing Arts Comox Valley K R I ST INA CA M P B ELL THE COMOX VALLEY is home to many talented

initiative generated by the recognition that each group

community-based performing arts organizations that

exists within a much larger milieu, where all gain from

have shared members, schedules, and equipment infor-

working together, supporting, and promoting each other.

mally for many years. In late 2022, a few of the leaders of these groups resolved to make their casual connections more intentional and formed Performing Arts Comox Valley (PACV).

Caroline Lenardon (PACV board member, Strathcona Symphony Orchestra, North Island Choral Society) highlights that the shared calendar at performingartscomoxvalley.ca/events/ prevents overlapping performances,

Since that first meeting, they have organized as a board,

for the benefit of both audiences and the performing

created a website with a performing arts calendar, and

artists, who often belong to multiple groups with a useful

have brought a dozen organizations to their collabora-

one-stop entertainment planning source.

tion. Altogether, PACV represents hundreds of active members, whether through choral, bands, symphony,

Working to encourage and support community per-

dance, or theatre.

forming arts for all cultural traditions, they pool resourc-

Kelly Finlayson (Celebration Singers Community Choirs)

PACV offers many benefits for organizations: nominal

and Howard Robertson (Comox Valley Concert Band)

fees, access to the calendar for planning, listing, and

are co-chairs of this exciting initiative. PACV Treasurer

promoting events, as well as streamlined organiza-

is Greg Cousineau (Quarantones). Secretary Mary Gray

tional support for sharing volunteers and equipment.

(North Island Choral Society, Grace Notes) describes the

performingartscomoxvalley.ca

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es, energy, and enthusiasm within a formal structure.

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Issue 46 |

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C O A S TA L C H R O N I C L E S A Review of Frances Barkley Eighteenth-century Seafarer DAV E FLAWSE

FRANCES AND CAPTAIN CHARLES BARKLEY navigated

and “he then proceeded to tell us his story, which I will

the Imperial Eagle into Nootka Sound in June 1787. Wife,

relay as it was extraordinary.” Sick with scurvy on a Eu-

husband, and crew sailed across the globe through

ropean vessel the year previous, he requested to be left

storms and pirate-infested waters to procure a seem-

ashore to recover. In that time he’d been treated well

ingly humble item—sea otter pelts. These fetched as-

by Maquinna, the Chief of the Mowachaht tribe. But

tronomical prices in China, and, as luck would have it,

upon breaking some protocol, he was exiled from the

the Imperial Eagle was the first trading vessel to arrive

community and survived on his own until the Bark-

that season. This gave them first choice of pelts and

ley’s arrived. Once aboard he divulged information to

an upper hand in bargaining, but the luck did not end

help the Barkley’s procure more furs than they could

there.

have hoped to on their own.

They anchored in Yuquot (Friendly Cove). “A ca-

After loading furs the Barkleys sailed south and

noe,” writes Cathy Converse in Frances Barkley Eigh-

mapped what would become known to Europeans

teenth-century Seafarer, “came alongside paddled by

as Barkley Sound. Islanders will recognize the name,

a man that was clothed in a greasy sea otter skin; he

but the name Frances Barkley is less recognized.

was disgustingly dirty.” Dr. John Mackay was a surgeon

Upon marriage she refused to wait at home while

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Captain Barkley sailed the world. She and her husband

consist of “interesting books on hundreds of different

circumnavigated the globe while they experienced the

topics.” The quick tales are “about animals, gold hunt-

ebbs and flow of life.

ers, historical figures, lawmakers, shipwrecks, true

Converse shares this amazing woman’s adventures in a short and entertaining 120-page tale. The book is split into two parts and 27 chapters plus an epilogue, intro-

crime, Canadian history, and many other subjects” and they’re accessible writing means suitability for any adult reader but also middle-grade and school use.

duction, conclusion, and prologue. That means some

Besides North America’s west coast, the book details

of the chapters are brief (Chapter 25 is just one page

the Barkley’s other aptly categorized amazing adven-

long). The structure feels like a journal, and this, I sus-

tures around the globe. Though, these could be better

pect, is on purpose.

described as misadventures. Heartbreak, and not luck,

The story is told in first-person perspective of Frances and reads like engaging fiction, adding to the journal-like feel. This style of creative non-fiction pulls

were the norm for the Barkleys. So, while the book reads like fiction, the story possesses the realities of true life. Don’t expect a happy ending.

from in-depth research (the sources list is long and, if

The maps and historical drawings in the book help

you’ve read anything else by Converse, it’s what you’d

give context to where the couple travelled. They most

expect) and imagination. Good creative non-fiction is

important map, the one showing the Barkley’s two

about making the most of what you have. Converse’s

voyages, is dedicated its own page and read by flip-

work successfully rides the edge between non-fiction

ping the book 90 degrees. Unless you’re equipped with

and fiction in an enthralling historical journey.

a magnifying glass, you might find it difficult to deci-

A standout scene waits near the beginning and illuminates the Converse’s ability to pull the reader into the story: Frances’s second time on a ship was a voy-

pher the other maps. My only minor criticism for the book is that these maps could have been larger to aid in the geographical understanding of the voyages.

age around the globe. Three days out she, “met her

Before leaving the west coast of North America, Cap-

first challenge at sea.” Captain Barkley sent Frances

tain Barkley made a crude map of Barkley Sound. The

to her cabin and told her they were in for some “very

map shows a safe anchorage, a useful tidbit for any

bad weather. Very quickly the seas steepened, and the

mariner. As that information was useful to the sailor

wind howled, causing the ship to groan and screech.

so is this review to the reader. If you’re looking for

Together with the clanking of the chain pumps, it all

safe harbour for your hard-earned booty, Cathy Con-

made for a thunderous timbre that was deafening. Our

verse’s Frances Barkley Eighteenth-century Seafarer is a

grand ship suddenly seemed so small set against the

solid choice.

breadth and ferocity of the ocean.”

Cathy Converse is a best-selling author who has been writing for over thirty years. She has authored, co-authored, and co-edited seven books, many magazine cover stories, academic journal articles, and technical manuals. Her book, Following the Curve of Time: The Legendary M. Wylie Blanchet, was shortlisted for the BC Book Prizes’ Bill Duthie Booksellers’ Choice Award in 2009, and Against the Current received an Honourable Mention for the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal for Historical Writing. Cathy is a former chair of social sciences, a faculty member in the Department of Sociology, and a founder of the women’s studies curriculum and ancillary programs at Camosun College.

Swiftsure at the Captain Cook Museum © Bill Maximick

The book is a part of the Amazing Stories collection.

According to the Heritage House website, the series

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Issue 46 |

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O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H Flower Power!

From debilitating anxiety and depression to limitless and unbounded joy and happiness JD TH E FLOWER M A N BACK WHEN MY NAME WAS ROB, I was painfully shy,

Comox Valley in my life. If you had given me a paper

unsure—and the concept of self-love was foreign to me. I

map of BC, it would have taken me hours to locate it.

had lost a lot of money through the breakup of my fami-

Consequently I had no friends here, no acquaintances,

ly, my poor business decisions, and an internet scam. Af-

no job to come to, and no family. A new start!

ter a 15-year dependence on five different anti-psychotic medications, in March of 2016 I found myself admitted involuntarily to the psychiatric ward. Which is where I remained for the next 15 months, on and off, for months

After settling in to my new home, and then experiencing homelessness not long after my arrival, I changed my name from Rob, to John, to J.D. to finally The Flower-

at a time. On May 5, 2017 I woke up with absolutely no

man. I always introduce myself as “J.D., but my friends

anxiety or depression: it is the date of my re-birth.

call me The Flowerman.” I have so many people in my life both here in the Comox Valley and back in my old

Change was required to find unbounded joy and happi-

home town that I can truly call friends. I have the most

ness. I changed everything in my life. Fearing homeless-

amazing career that a man could ask for driving my Magic

ness, I sold whatever I had left, put a trailer hitch on my

Bus for B.C. Transit. The Flowerman now has a perma-

1966 Mustang Convertible and hauled a cute little tent

nent place to call home.

trailer to drive somewhere west. Originally I was going to settle in the mountain village of Nelson, BC, but I felt

I started wearing Hawaiian Leis soon after my arrival

it was too isolated. I kept driving and driving. I took my

simply to express an outward sign of my limitless Joy and

keys out of the ignition in the most beautiful coastal

Happiness. I made them all and had different ones for

valley I could have imagined. I had never heard of the

different events and activities I was participating in. But

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honestly I never felt quite right about wearing a Hawaiian

At 59 years old, The Flowerman is stronger both physi-

Lei. I don’t live in Hawaii, I don’t say Aloha and I live on a

cally and mentally than when he was 20. Since wearing

stunning island in its own right.

my Pathfinder, I have given up a 25-year pack-a-day

One dark and stormy night two winters ago, The Flowerman was waiting at his Bus stop loading passengers to take them down to Fanny Bay. I was wearing the most

smoking habit; lost 80 pounds (70 of which came off in just 14 weeks by cycling 2,300 kilometres in that time); I play hockey once again and can score Hat Tricks; I surf off the coast of Tofino; I cycle every single day

brilliant, puffy and flamboyant Lei in

365 days a year and look forward to cy-

my inventory that particular night.

cling in our winter atmospheric rivers.

One older gentleman who was looking down-on-his-luck stepped into my Bus, and his eyes lit up as he saw my colourful Lei around my neck. He pointed to his own neckline and asked, “Is that your Pathfinder?”

It hit me like a lightning bolt! I had to redesign my neckpiece I loved to wear, I could not sleep that night because of my excitement. The flowers that now make up my Pathfinder are all inspired by living my best life in the Comox Valley. Since I was a young boy the Sunflower has had special meaning to me; plucking seeds out of the head to form a happy face. The white rose is dedicated to the best landlady and landlord a man could have as they were the couple who welcomed me into their home thus ending my homelessness and providing a very soft place to land. The bright yellow “burst of colour” flower was given to me at a bus stop by a Vietnam veteran experiencing homelessness. The pink tulip was give to me

I had been pre-diabetic as Rob, but am no longer as The Flowerman, and I find once daunting daily chores very easy to accomplish and complete.

To The Flowerman, wearing my Pathfinder, I equate to what Superman must feel like wearing his cape. Like Superman’s cape, The Flowerman’s Pathfinder gives him super powers. The Flowerman’s super powers happen to be spreading joy and happiness. Wearing my Pathfinder allows me to live my best life! That life is full of boundless energy, having courage under fire, recognizing your strengths and weaknesses and embracing both, boosting strength of character, loving yourself with passion, living a healthy lifestyle, connecting with others, positive attitude, an ability to think outside the box, pride of being different, and sharing this limitless Joy and Happiness with the world. FLOWER POWER!

by a young high school student from Chile I pick up on

The Flowerman sincerely hopes that by wearing your

my Bus. I brought the burst of red into the Pathfinder as

own highly unique and colourful floral Pathfinder, you

they pay tribute to the roses I received from two different

too can live a better life and spread the light in a beauti-

passengers a year ago.

fully bright way.

I tell all who ask about this brilliant neck piece that it’s

www.theflowerman.ca | @jdtheflowerman

my Pathfinder because it lights my path to connect with

Facebook group: Comox Valley Social Experiment

others and spread joy and happiness. When people tell me they love my flowers I say “thanks, they’re Skookum.” (Skookum is Pacific North West Chinook Wawa word used to describe things that are “strong”, “monstrous”, “greatest’, “powerful”, “ultimate”, “brave”.)

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Issue 46 |

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RELATIVELY NEW TO QUADRA Island, artist Elke van Breemen is quietly making herself known locally by teaching “art in nature” classes to children through the school, community center or at her studio on Quadra. Her teaching style is nature immersion, paired with different art media to facilitate and enmesh a connection between children and their surrounding environment.

Born in Miami, Florida, Elke moved to BC with her family when she was ten. She brought with her a deep curiosity and fascination with all aspects of nature, and showed it through art which she grew up making alongside her mother, also a painter and graphic designer. Wanting to know more about the ecosystems that drew her in, Elke went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources Conservation followed by a Bachelor of Education, giving her a stable platform to share her passion with the public.

Through her work in nature outreach with different conservation groups as over Wolf Cetus Invasive Englishsuch Ivy taking theAwareness, forest © knelson20 Research and Conservation Society, and community programs such as Quadra Literacy, Elke uses her art as an educational tool to focus a spotlight on the need for conservation by showing the beauty of nature through her eyes and artistic perspective.

While all of us know that the interpretation of subjects through art is an incredibly varied and fluid concept, it is clear by looking at Elke’s paintings that she has a good understanding of ecology and a passionate appreciation for detail in regards to what makes a species, and the role that organisms play in their habitat and their connections with each other in a larger ecosystem. When chatting with Elke for this article and seeing her art, I was struck with her ability to bring nature to life on a canvas. Through my conversation

NORTHWEST COAST N AT U R E Art Inspired by Nature : Elke van Breemen

with her, it was clear that her education and love for the natural world contributes strongly to the richness portrayed in her paintings.

In Elke’s own words: “As children, we know that nature is a part of us and that we are a part of nature. Yet as we age, this intuitive piece of knowledge is often lost from our understanding. I believe that we can rekindle our innate connec-

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tion to nature through inquisitive immersion within

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our surrounding green spaces, whether out in the

Elke van Breemen's art show opening is at Beach Fire

wilderness or nestled in an urban setting.

Brewing in Campbell River on July 29th from 5pm to 10pm. Her art will be on display throughout the sum-

My paintings stem from daily rambles in the forest and

mer, to share her paintings inspired by nature with

along the shoreline, drawing from the detailed curi-

the larger community. The opening event is fami-

osities offered up by Mother Nature. A vibrant palette

ly-friendly with live music from Jeff Bruce and deli-

allows me to explore the complex colors that are some-

cious food and craft beer. See you there!

times overlooked in a muted west coast environment.

These works are a playful study of biological forms

For original work and prints for sale, visit www.elkeswildlife.com

found within forest and marine habitats. The imagery invites a visual celebration of nature’s treasures that have fallen from trees, washed up on shore or flown down from the sky. Some specimens are given the spotlight while others lurk in the lush tangle of nature.”

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Issue 46 |

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WELLNESS ARTIST

Little Tribune Bay, Hornby Island © Trish Malcomess

Trish Malcomess : Coastlines TR I S H M A LC OM ESS THE ART OF TRISH MALCOMMES blurs the boundaries

that resonates with the surrealistic atmosphere of the

between sculpture, ceramics, drawing, photography,

past three years, and to invite the audience to explore

painting and life. Reflecting contemporary culture

the boundaries of reality and imagination. Each brush-

through her work, Trish’s research-based practice has

stroke and composition choice serves to transport the

evolved into two distinct streams, Social and Environ-

viewer into an alternative realm, where the familiar and

mental. Resiliency within these streams is where she

the unfamiliar coexist harmoniously.

finds inspiration.

Ultimately, her intention is to provoke an introspective Trish studied Fine Arts at East London School of Art,

response, prompting viewers to question the nature of

South Africa and achieved a Bachelor of Fine Arts

perception and their own place within the world and

through Emily Carr University, Vancouver, Canada. As

aspire to foster a deeper connection between art and re-

an Interdisciplinary Artist and conservationist, she has

ality, inviting individuals to engage with the mysterious

exhibited her work in South Africa and Canada since

aspects of our shared human experience.

1977.

Compass Gallery + Gifts will host ‘Coastlines’ from AuCoastlines emerged from Trish's walks down the coast

gust 1st through September 30th at the Comox location.

during the 2020 lockdowns… from time spent docu-

The Opening Receptionis Friday, August 11th from 4.30

menting her findings around Vancouver Island and the

– 6 pm; all are welcomed. Compass Gallery is located at

Wild Coast of South Africa with her camera. Through

101 – 1811 Comox Avenue, Downtown Comox.

the work, Trish endeavours to create an experience 1 4 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 6

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

Pie Factory Amazing Pies NOW Available at Compass Gallery + Gifts!

101-1811 Comox Ave Monday - Saturday 10 - 5

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

MENU Lunch & Dinner Time

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

Pie Any Time

They Buried Me Not Knowing I Was A Seed © Trish Malcomess

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

Individual Gluten Free + Vegan Sweet Bakery Treats Daily Tilly's Soup + Scone Soup Gluten Free + non-gmo Scone Pecan or Butter Tarts

$6 $7 $5 Hot $4 Frozen $3 $3/$15 for 6

Wormwood © Trish Malcomess W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

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WELLNESS ARTIST TRISH MALCOMESS D E TA I L F R O M C O A S TA L C R U I S I N G OIL ON BIRCH, 36" x 36" 2023

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Issue 46 |

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Kristi Lane Sinclair Fierce & Fiesty www.kristilanesinclair.ca

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FIERCE AND FEISTY, HAIDA/CREE SINGERSONGWRITER KRISTI LANE SINCLAIR

in the moment. Super Blood Wolf Moon combines severity

is emblematic of the new wave of Canadian Indigenous Artists

alongside the howl of heavy riffs. Essential to the recording

turning perceptions upside down. Raised in British Columbia's

process was assembling an all-woman team, from studio

backwaters, drawing more from a DIY/Indie aesthetic than tra-

band to producer and engineer. The album's recording ses-

ditional/mainstream music, Sinclair's musical roots are a darkly

sions at Jukasa Studios on Six Nations Territory in Ohsweken,

intoxicating mix of grunge, folk and classical. Rich and orches-

Ontario and ARC Studios in Hannon, Ontario featured drum-

tral, underpinned with alternately snarling guitars and warm

mer Dani Nash, bassist Anna Ruddick, keyboardist Robin

strings, her music balances the intimate and epic.

Hatch and string players Praise Lam and Blanche Israël. Pro-

and symphony, weaving archly gorgeous string arrangements

duced by Juno-nominated Terra Lightfoot, engineered by Jill A classically trained guitarist who grew up on grunge, Kristi

Zimmerman and mastered by Grammy Award-winner Emily

Lane Sinclair is back with a new single, "End of the Rope," off

Lazar, Super Blood Wolf Moon's multidisciplinary solidarity

her latest album Super Blood Wolf Moon.

is palpable on songs like "Landback," in which a chorus of singers shine forth from the commotion of grinding guitars to

Sinclair released her first album, the self-produced I Love

harmonize, "the world sings terribly, when no one's listening,

You, in 2010, and followed it with 2013's By The Sea Alone. In

we're here with you."

2015, she released Dark Matter, which earned the Best Rock Album honour at the 2017 Indigenous Music Awards. The

On the album's lead single "Break," Sinclair again holds space

making of that album was documented in a six-part APTN se-

for women who've endured violence. The song culminates

ries, Face The Music. The Ability to Judge Distance followed

in the declaration "no this is not the night", one of many mo-

up with a 2018 release. Producer Terra Lightfoot had been

ments on Super Blood Wolf Moon strongly avowing agency.

hoping to work with Sinclair since the two crossed paths at

"Writing that song, I was trying to get all those women's voic-

the Dawson City Music Festival in 2015. When she heard Sin-

es out of my head. That clicked while I was in the studio,"

clair's demos, Lightfoot jumped at the chance to collaborate.

says Sinclair. The album is a triumph of Sinclair's will. Among

"I believe these songs will be transcendent, and set an exam-

the more raucous offerings is the lionhearted "End of the

ple for all young women in the music industry," says Lightfoot.

Rope," its grind of chugging guitars making way for an even-

"It's a true statement celebrating women, and how we are

tual message of survival. "I'm still alive," sings Sinclair—and

healing together."

the soon-to-be queen of classical grunge, at that. "'Break' is a very different kind of arrangement. It doesn't really sound

The beautiful, brash and bold musician spent three years

like anything I've ever done before, there's mostly just this

writing the album's twelve songs. Already the longest time

pulse, this heartbeat of drums and of voices chanting. This is

she'd ever spent on an album before unveiling it to the world,

one example of a song where I asked the girls in the studio to

production was delayed, though not entirely halted, by the

portray ancestral voices in their singing within the song's nar-

pandemic, prolonging the process even further. But in what

rative. It was our chance to incorporate the amazing voice of

seems an act of prescience, Super Blood Wolf Moon arrived

Kelly Fraser, whose throat singing runs throughout the track."

at exactly the moment it needed to: the album's layered thematic dualities—anger and love, optimism and despair—ex-

Sinclair also has produced choral works, including a piece

press the nuances so many are learning to embrace as they

called 'Woman', which has been performed in Vancouver as

heal. "I wrote this album wanting to find common ground for

well as in Toronto by Winnipeg choir Dead of Winter. Haunt-

all who experience womanhood," Sinclair explains. "I don't

ingly beautiful, mournful, and extremely powerful, this song

want my identity to be that of a victim. I wanted Super Blood

deals with a very difficult subject in a subtle way. It's an ex-

Wolf Moon to be a true account of how it feels to endure do-

quisite marriage of text and music without any preaching, the

mestic violence and PTSD. It's not only about what I've been

message is gentle and compelling. "Woman was written to

through, but also what I've learned from women I've encoun-

honour the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous wom-

tered throughout my life over the years."

en. It is a call to action; for love and protection going forward."

Sinclair's well-polished, brutally honest songwriting delves

Sinclair is residing on the North Island for now and continues

into far too common experiences of violence, surfacing to

to write and produce music. Follow her on social media plat-

breathe with softness and grit. She describes her songwriting

forms. Download or stream Super Blood Wolf Moon and take

approach as "visceral," with music and lyrics written together

your time listening to her latest single 'End of the Rope'.

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

Issue 46 |

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

Dr. Michael MacKenzie joins VIU as the first Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership © Natalia Baqueiro Photography

WA L K I N G I N T H E I R F O O T S T E P S Expert in democracy and public trust joins Vancouver Island University DR. MICHAEL K. MACKENZIE IS VIU'S inaugural

others, the foods we eat or have access to, the medical

Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership. The

care we receive or do not receive, the sports and rec-

Jarislowsky Foundation has set up a first-of-its-kind

reations we take part in, all these parts of our lives—

network at five universities across Canada, inviting

and many others—are shaped and determined by de-

Acadia University, Université du Québec à Trois-Riv-

cisions made by governments and other policymakers.

ières (in collaboration with l'École Nationale d'Admin-

The worlds we live in are our own creations. We made

istration Publique), Trent University, the University

them. If we want to remake them or change them in

of Lethbridge and VIU to participate. The Jarislowsky

any way we have to think and act politically.

Foundation invested $2 million as part of a $4 million endowment supported by the community, including a $375,000 gift from Scotiabank and matching funds from the VIU Foundation, to help establish the new Research Chair at VIU.

For example, I'm passionate about urban design. I want to make our cities and towns more walkable and bikable. This would make them more environmentally sustainable but it would also, in my view, make them safer, more enjoyable, quieter, more beautiful—and

When asked about what drives his passion for politics

probably more equitable as well. There are so many

and policy, MacKenzie says, “the worlds we live in are

political—or collective—decisions that have enormous

shaped by politics. Where we live, the types of hous-

impacts on our lives. It is important to study politics

es and neighbourhoods we live in, how we get around,

and policy so that we are aware of how past decisions

where we go to school, where we work, how we work,

have shaped our lives, and how current decisions might

the opportunities we have in life, how we interact with

make our futures different or better.”

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

MacKenzie has spent the past 20 years studying and

TRISH MALCOMESS

writing about democracy. He holds a PhD in political science from the University of British Columbia, a Master's in political science and social statistics from McGill University and a Bachelor of Arts in politics from the University of Winnipeg. He was an Assistant Professor (2015-2022) and an Associate Professor (2022-2023) at the University of Pittsburgh.

“As a teenager, I knew that I wanted a creative and intellectual life,” he remembers. “I did not at that time know what form it would take. I fell in love with university life during my time as an undergraduate at the University of Winnipeg. I took courses in many different fields including sociology, history, economics, and astronomy. I majored in political science because of the influence of one professor in particular: he showed me that all the human endeavors that I care most about— the search for equality, freedom, truth, and beauty, the pursuit of science and the study of the human condition itself—are all shaped and conditioned by politics.

When we study politics, and in particular democracy, we study how our societies work (or do not work), but we also think a lot about how they might work differently or better.”

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MacKenzie has also worked as a policy analyst and facilitator with the Ontario Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform. He was a Democracy Fellow and post-doctoral researcher at the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at the Harvard Kennedy School between 2013 and 2015.

The long-term goal of the network created by the

at YQQ Comox Airport

Jarislowsky Foundation is to develop educational programming and training for students, politicians, public servants, and other aspiring leaders. The programming will focus on trust and ethical practice in governance and political leadership.

“I love teaching,” says Dr. MacKenzie. “I find the enthusiasm and insights that my students bring to the classroom both inspiring and invigorating. In my courses we discuss and debate political issues and problems, and we share our political passions, preferences, and

Our Superb Selection of Gift Ware is perfect for Wedding Gifts Visiting Relations + Friends Corporate Gifts Comox Valley + Vancouver Island branded items

expectations. There is always something new happening in the political world, and those who study politics at university—whether they are majoring in the field or not—care passionately about what is happening in our neighbourhoods, towns, cities, provinces, countries, and around the world. As a professor I aim to help my students nurture the intellectual skills they need to W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

1250 Knight Road midislandgifts@shaw.ca

www.MidIslandGifts.com Issue 46 |

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

think critically and constructively about the political

Dr. Elizabeth Brimacombe, Dean of the Faculty of So-

world, as well the tools they will need to participate in

cial Sciences, said MacKenzie's extensive background

politics if they choose to do so—as informed citizens,

in researching the democratic process, including his

writers, analysts, policy advisors, journalists, politi-

exploration of the challenges and possibilities of mak-

cians, community leaders or activists.”

ing long-term decisions in democratic systems, is an

As the Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leader-

exciting addition to VIU.

ship, MacKenzie plans to work with the other chairs in

“The Political Studies program at VIU is a strong con-

Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario and Alberta to develop

tributor to interdisciplinary scholarship and education,

an intellectually rigorous but also practical program for

notably with the Global Studies program, so the Jaris-

aspiring political leaders in Canada. He hopes to bring

lowsky Chair initiative will broadly enhance learning

some new attention to the innovative teaching and re-

opportunities and innovation across the university,”

search that is being done at VIU. “In my view, VIU is one

she says. “The position will examine ethics and gov-

of the best kept secrets in Canadian academia,” he says.

ernance at a time when globally democracy is facing

The small university offers a huge diversity of courses,

some of its biggest challenges in decades. We are excit-

has small classes taught by wonderful faculty who care

ed to engage with other universities across the national

about their research and their students, and is located

network in building education for the political leaders

in a stunningly beautiful part of the country. “In this

of our future.”

new role, I will be working with academics, leaders, and students across Canada, and I hope to bring attention to all these wonderful attributes of VIU.”

Stephen Jarislowsky, President of the Jarislowsky Foundation, was born in Germany in 1925 and lived in the Netherlands and France between the two world

With regard to regional impacts, the leadership pro-

wars. He witnessed situations like those in Ukraine to-

gram that Dr. MacKenzie will be developing with the

day. He said the creation of these new chairs responds

other Jarislowsky chairs will provide aspiring leaders

to a need in our democratic societies.

from Vancouver Island with educational and networking opportunities right here on the island. Participants in the program will have opportunities to meet, study, and work with other aspiring leaders across Canada, as well as those who have played important leadership roles in our country already. Students will have all the benefits of both staying home on Vancouver Island to study and going elsewhere, for some time, to meet others and build their professional networks. The program he envisions will include those who are interested in electoral politics, but also those who are interested in becoming leaders in the public service, education, business, unions or community organizations.

“People need to understand historical experiences in order to prevent repeating them. And one of the ways to do that is to ensure our governments are led by inspiring, highly trusted, reliable men and women who exercise fiduciary responsibility,” said Jarislowsky. “Once democracy disappears in a country, it takes years to re-establish if it is even possible. Optimistically, it's a question of how we are going to strengthen and build trust in our public institutions, our organizations and ourselves.”

To learn more about the new Jarislowsky Chair visit news.viu.ca

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

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Rejuvenate Yourself at Big Island Bookfest JP B A ILEY IF YOU NEED a place to begin your jour-

Rejuvenate your love for reading by

ney of getting back out into the public

discovering island authors who you

more after the last few years of staying

knew nothing about! We are hosting

close to home, Big Island Bookfest is

46 writers from all genres, including

the perfect place to rejuvenate your

several children’s authors. There will

connection with others.

be complimentary kids' face painting

Big Island Bookfest is a fun festive

WWW.BIGISLANDBOOKFEST.COM

from noon to 3pm.

For those who enjoy dressing up, re-

market-style event where the public can meet authors from the Comox Valley area, and per-

juvenate the young wild thing in your inner being and

haps discuss their craft, find out what motivates them,

come to the Fest in costume. Several authors will dress

and of course, buy signed copies of their works. Many

up and we encourage you to dress up too. Even if it’s just

authors will have other offerings, such as posters, art,

a loud Hawaiian shirt!

greeting cards, and stickers. This year we are pleased to also show the works of paper stylist Ray Bartl of Duncan who makes amazing art from folding paper.

Saturday October 14, 10am to 4pm ⋅ Entry by cash donation Upper floor ⋅ Florence Filberg Centre ⋅ 411 Anderton ⋅ Courtenay Live music! Lite canteen! Books Books Books!

© Jolie Nasralla

WEDNESDAYS June 7 - September 6

Farmers | Artists | Makers Performances | Food Location: Downtown Courtenay

Comox Valley Home-Based Business Association

Duncan AVEnue

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

Issue 46 |

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

© Sebastián Hernández

SHIFT HAPPENS The Difference Between Ego and Soul ANDREA WAGEMAKER WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE between ego and soul? Tapping

The ego is helpful when it comes to making some

into this information can be useful in guiding you in

decisions because it’s good at weighing up consequences

multiple areas of your life, from your career to your

and outcomes and seeing things objectively. It is also

passions, and maybe most importantly, your relation-

a motivating force that can help us thrive in today’s

ships. If we let the ego take control of our thinking

society it helps us get jobs done. It is also what de-

when it is not necessary, we sometimes follow paths

termines our own perspective of the external world,

that are not most aligned with our higher purpose.

though this can often be flawed because it is so easily

Learning to detach the ego when necessary is a skill

affected by our own emotions and past experiences,

that takes time to learn, but one that is definitely worth

rather than the true reality, it is mostly self-serving,

learning.

thinking of your own wants and needs.

The ego is just as necessary as the soul—it’s what sets

In contrast, the soul is pretty much the polar oppo-

us apart as humans because as far as we know, no other

site of everything the ego represents. The soul self

animal has an ego in the way that we do. The ego is

doesn’t rely on logical decision making, but instead

who we are in our minds—it’s composed of conscious

allows itself to be guided by intuition or signs from

thoughts and beliefs, labels and our sense of identity.

the Universe. This is the part of ourselves that exists

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

when the ego self has taken a step back, which is often described as a “flow state” where external constructs like time no longer exist. The soul might be regarded as your “true nature”, since this is the essence of who you are, without the influence of labels, expectations or judgments—it just is.

When they’re in balance, the soul and the ego are able to perfectly coexist—it’s only when one takes domi-

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to that becomes problematic. And contrary to what some spiritual teachers will tell you, the aim isn’t to squash the ego completely, because the soul self can equally take over and be unhelpful in some situations.

Think about being in a life-or-death situation: The ego is the force that is going to help you with problem solving to get out of that situation safely, ultimately leading to your survival. In the same situation the soul would be pretty useless at this level of problem solving, and it wouldn’t come with the same sense of urgency to save your life. It would however be useful in keeping you calm and preventing your emotions from taking over completely, which would otherwise likely result in you being paralyzed by fear and being able to take no action at all. The goal is to find balance between the two, and to recognize when one has taken over when it’s unnecessary and potentially problematic.

With the way our societies have become, with a focus on material possessions and instant feedback loops in the form of social media apps, it is much more likely for the ego to take center stage in unwanted situations than vice versa. So how do we learn to take a step back and choose soul over ego in these situations?

Spotting when the ego is in charge is the most important step in choosing your soul over it. If you don’t know when the ego has taken hold, how can you know to let go of it? It can be really difficult to spot when our ego has come to the forefront, since it is a powerful driving force in all of us, and many of us live our lives entirely through our egos without ever questioning it.

But once we learn to spot the ego in charge, we can intentionally choose to push it to the side and choose our soul instead, when we don’t think that the ego is serving us. And the good news is that it only takes once for you to say no to your ego, and then it will get easier and easier going forward to do the same.

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

REGISTER NOW FOR FALL 2023 LEARN MORE AT WWW.NIC.BC.CA Issue 46 |

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

CUP OF DESTINY Tea Leaf Readings

When your ego is in charge and not serving you, you will often feel consumed by your emotions, particularly ones of anger, hurt or disappointment. You have a more extrinsic sense of worth, meaning that you get your validation from outside sources like material possessions or other people’s opinions of you. You “overthink” things, and struggle to make decisions due to heavily analyzing the potential outcomes. You are highly critical of yourself and others, and make objective judgements. You see things in black and white, gravitate towards labels and feel the need to compartmentalize things into boxes. You’re easily hurt/angered/disappointed when things don’t go your way or you don’t get the outcome you expected. You take other people’s actions and projections personally, even when they’re not personal.

When your soul is in charge, you don’t take other people’s actions or decisions to heart, knowing that they are not a reflection of you and are projections of their own internal state. You are more readily able to practice forgiveness and let go of the past, preferring not to dwell on things that are no longer in your control. You have a desire to better yourself, but your self-worth does not depend on achieving goals. Your sense of self-worth is constant and isn’t affected by the opinions of others or the acquisition of material possessions. You feel less attached to outcomes and are able to “go with the flow” or “trust your gut”. You don’t feel a need to fit into a particular box or label, and instead listen to what you are called to, even when those changes. You lose yourself and a sense of time when doing things you enjoy, like creating and exercising. You feel called to go af-

Enjoy a beautiful sit down experience featuring: Authentic Tea Leaf Reading Gorgeous Local Tea + Sweet Treats Fortune Card Reading

ter your own interests and desires, even when they go against the grain of what is “normal” or “expected of you”. Life feels more effortless, like the Universe is gently guiding you forward.

The good news is that it only takes once for you to say no to your ego, and then it will get easier and easier going forward to do the same. Sometimes it can be diffi-

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

cult to turn off Ego and tap more into your soul. When that happens, Lucia Light is a great way to get out of your head and move into a more meditative state.

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

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

Issue 46 |

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© Anna_ok

S TAY W E L L Rejuvenation… things that make you go ahhhhh!

DA NA M A H ON THERE IS NOTHING QUITE like feeling rejuvenated, that

If solo recharging is your jam, quiet walks in nature,

sense of renewal, revitalization and restoration. There

early morning meditation and yoga practices, or sip-

are many factors that contribute to feeling rejuvenated.

ping a delightful midday tea or healthy mocktail may

For some it is rest, for others it may be a 25km hiking

be all you need to feel restored. Mocktails can be made

adventure. Perhaps time with family rejuvenates you,

using a chilled herbal tea, adding sparkling water, some

or time in solitude. It is entirely subjective and any way

ice and fresh mint, lime or frozen berries, or all three!

you choose to cultivate it is perfect.

Whether on “official” summer holidays or not, spendSpeaking of perfect, late summer / early fall can be the

ing time outdoors; enjoying the abundance of healthy,

perfect season to rejuvenate. Days are still long, the

fresh, local food if we are fortunate enough to have the

sun is shining and people tend to be in relatively good

access and resources; and hopefully playing a bit more

moods, likely in part due to the number of daylight

than usual, are all wonderful ways to recharge.

hours! This all lends to fun and carefree social engagements like beach day barbecues, evening fire sits, or

Breaking some habitual patterns, for example, visiting a

other simple gatherings. Quality time with loved ones

new coffee shop, trying a different river spot, or explor-

and friends can be the perfect antidote to feeling burnt

ing a local artisan shop can also add to a sense of renew-

out or drained.

al. Getting out of town on a day or overnight excursion can do wonders too.

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The simplest things can offer that feeling of freshness we may be craving.

NOURISHING BODY BUTTER

After some time in the summer elements, our skin

IN GR ED IEN TS

could use some rejuvenation too! DIY holistic bodycare is the perfect way to rejuvenate the skin, our largest

These ingredients are easy to find at health food shops. If

organ. This hydrating, nourishing body butter is sim-

they aren’t in your budget, find a friend to share the cost

ple, smells incredible even without essential oils, and

and make it together!

is an act of self-care simply in the application to our summer thirsty skin.

⅓ cup coconut oil ⅓ cup shea butter

Enjoy your version of rejuvenation, knowing that whatever and

⅓ cup cocoa butter

however you choose to create it, is absolutely perfect!

2 tsp arrowroot powder* *Optional. This can make it feel less greasy but if your skin is dry it may just slurp it up as is!

METHO D

•

Over medium heat, melt oils in a double boiler or glass bowl. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

•

Transfer bowl to the fridge to continue cooling until it begins to harden (it will turn white or yellow depending on the type of shea butter).

•

Remove from fridge. Whip with an electric or hand mixer on medium speed for approx 5 minutes until fluffy. It will resemble a pillowy cloud!

•

Add 15-20 drops of essential oil of choice and mix again for another minute.

•

Transfer to an airtight jar and store in a cool dry place. note: warm spots will cause the oils to melt.

S O ME AR O M A S U GGESTIO N S Have fun blending and playing with aromas and become an alchemist.

For calming / grounding: frankincense, lavender, cedarwood, bergamot For energizing / uplifting: peppermint, rosemary, grapefruit (note: citrus oils are photosensitive and should not be applied before sun exposure) For dry or dehydrated skin: geranium, ylang ylang, neroli, carrot seed

Dana has been a devoted explorer of wellness for over 25 years. She combines her love of body work, aromatherapy, holistic nutrition and mindful movement to offer women her very best on their wellness journeys. Her first book, Release Your Inner Wild, is the modern day women’s guide to reconnecting with your true Self and honouring health, passion and power.

Dana Mahon | Wellness for the Wild Woman danamahon.com W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 46 |

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

not, and may become integrated into the ecosystem without inflicting much ecological harm. Another common example of a naturalized species is Broadleaf Plantain, Plantago major, a common weed that is rampant in any disturbed and damaged areas. Plantain was a very early plant to arrive with colonizers, and was used medicinally by Indigenous peoples. Because of its weedy habit of growing in disturbed areas, it is actually good for stabilizing damaged soils.

One of the common bird visitors to strip Mountain Ash trees at berry time is the beautiful Cedar Waxwing, Bombycilla cedrorum, a member of the waxwing family of passerine birds. This medium sized bird is well known for its silky plumage, with a brownish head and head crest, fading into subdued yellow belly, a neat black mask thinly outlined with white, gray wings Cedar Waxwing in a Mountain Ash © jbosvert

with attractive bright red wingtips and short, square tails that are dipped in yellow.

B A C K YA R D B I R D I N G

Cedar waxwings are a very social bird and do not dis-

Cedar Waxwings

are common sight in forests and woody edges that

LUN A LOI SE AU -TR EMBLAY

and farms. Other common trees in our area that are

AS JULY COMES TO A CLOSE, blueberries and cherries are a fresh and common sight at the weekly markets, such as the downtown Campbell River Farmers market on Sunday afternoons. Blackberries are ripening and trees are heavy with fruit, presenting a sweet buffet for wildlife. While some of us struggle to keep the animals from gobbling up our produce, fruiting trees that are of less importance to our diet—such as bitter cherry, elderberry, and mountain ash—are a productive food resource for local fauna.

Mountain Ash, which is in the genus Sorbus, is common

play territorial behavior, feeding in large flocks that are plentiful with berry and insect sources, orchards frequented for food by waxwings are dogwood, saskatoon berry, cedar, juniper and hawthorne. Waxwings also feed on holly and spurge laurel, contributing to the spread of invasive plants.

In urban areas, this species can be seen in open areas bordered by berry producing shrubs and trees, especially if combined with water sources such as ornamental fountains or waterways present in areas such as golf courses. Along with cedar waxwings, western tanagers, finches, sapsuckers, chickadees, yellow-rumped warblers and many other species can be seen feasting on the season’s bounty. Happy Birding!

in this area. While we have some that are native to BC such as Western Mountain Ash (Sorbus scopulina) and Sitka Mountain Ash (Sorbus sitchensis), many of the varieties we see are European Mountain Ash, Sorbus acuparia, which is naturalized and interbreeds with native species, making it widespread in Canada. The word ‘naturalized’ in the context of botany is used when a plant has successfully established itself and reproduced in its new environment. While some naturalized species can become invasive (ie. himalayan blackberry, scotch broom, spurge laurel) many do 3 0 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 6

Cedar Waxwing © Feng Yu

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

Issue 46 |

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Explore WHAT THE NORTH ISLAND HAS TO OFFER

IN TELEGRAPH COVE

VICTORIA | VANCOUVER | TELEGRAPH COVE W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

3 2 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 6