Experience Tri-Cities Spring 2020

THE TRI-CITI ES C O M M U N IT Y LIF E ST YLE MA GA ZINE SPRING 2020 F R EE

SPRING

SELF-REFLECTIONS

CHANGING

NEIGHBOURHOODS

FUTURE JOBS

Skills our kids will need

CRUSH THE

COQUITLAM

CRUNCH

FOOD & HOME

TRENDS 2020

WINE WISE

Local wine expert Kai Chang has plenty to teach us about all our favourite reds and whites

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Spring 2020 | Volume 2 | Number 1 PUBLISHER

Mainsail Media

GENERAL MANAGER / ADVERTISING SALES

Judith Lucas

EDITOR / ART DIRECTOR

Jet Editing

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sandra Harsidi Alex Whittaker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Andrea Jabour Saida MacIntosh Jennifer McKinnon Rose Kapp

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER

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ELECTRONIC IMAGING Laura Michaels TECHNOLOGY ADVISORS

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Spring into learning

W

Judith Lucas

elcome to the Spring 2020 issue of Experience Tri-Cities!

As the weather warms up and the flowers start to bloom, I feel very blessed to live in this beautiful community, with amazing natural features like the Coquitlam Crunch (see our story on page 39) and waterways to row (see 40).

There’s also always something new to learn in the Tri-Cities. We have some amazing people in our community, who can teach you about wine (see our Cover Story on page 8), interior design trends (page 30), your health (page 41) or the skills your kids will need to succeed in the future (page 12).

Just like the changing of the seasons, personal growth and learning never stops, and we hope this issue of Experience Tri-Cities informs and inspires you along the way.

— Judith Lucas, General Manager

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Contents

SPRING 2020

ON THE COVER

Kai Chang of VinoZen Academy.

Photo by Sandra Harsidi

COMMUNITY

12

Jobs of tomorrow

18

A new chapter for libraries

What future skills will our kids need?

What’s new at the Coquitlam Public Library?

TRAVEL

WINE WISDOM

8

19

Learning about wines can be as easy as 1-2-3 with these local classes

Finding more positivity in your life this spring

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

39

Conquer the Crunch

40

Rowing for all ages

Ready for the stairs?

On the water in the Tri-Cities WWW.EXPERIENCETRICITIES.CA

Consider this ocean cruise alternative

WORK AND BUSINESS

TIME TO REFLECT

46

Cruising down the river

41

Concussion watch

42

Cancer care

What to look out for!

A holistic approach

22

Working design Ergonomic trends for a happy workplace

FOOD & CULTURE

26

Music for the soul

28

For the foodie in you

Coquitlam singer-songwriter Etienne Siew

5 new food trends

HOME & FAMILY

30

Designing your sanctuary

33

Good credit

34

Changing neighbourhoods

36

Curb appeal

38

Starfish Pack program

Home design trends for 2020

Get a mortgage with a good interest rate

With MLA Selina Robinson

Getting your house ready to sell

Rotary Club food drive EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SPRING 2020

5

Dana Harvey Founder of Dana Harvey Communications, Dana helps businesses with epic, world-changing ideas communicate clearly for profit and impact.

She is co-founder of the Women’s Collaborative Hub Society, co-founder of “Future Women,” a series of events to advance diversity and inclusion in the technology industry, and a board director of Build a Biz Kids.

Sandra Harsidi Photography Sandra is a portrait and lifestyle photographer, based in Port Coquitlam and serving the Lower Mainland. She specializes in portrait, maternity, engagement, family, lifestyle and special events. View her portfolio at www.sandraharsidi.com or follow her on Facebook/IG: @sandraharsidiphotography

Contributors Jennifer McKinnon Jennifer is a director for the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce, executive director for the Downtown PoCo BIA and president of the Rotary Club of Coquitlam Sunrise. She owns Creating Culture, an HR and community relations consulting company. Jennifer is an active member and volunteer in the Tri-Cities community, speaker and mom.

Rose Kapp Andrea Jabour Andrea is the owner of Creative Rain Communications, a boutique communications and marketing consulting agency in Coquitlam, BC. She is an avid vegan foodie and is passionate about the environment and her community!

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Rose Kapp (Roszay) is an illustrator and cartoonist. As an arts advocator, she hosts a multi-discipline networking group, Creative People Talking on Facebook. See rosekapp.com.

EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SPRING 2020

7

Kai Chang is the chief consultant and educator at VinoZen Academy, which holds wine education classes in the Tri-Cities and Burnaby.

Photo by Sandra Harsidi .

COVER STORY

A WINE EDUCATION Elevate your lifestyle, one glass at a time

By Margaret Jetelina

K

ai Chang likes the finer things in life. From wearing a well-cut suit to listening to good music to sipping a smooth scotch, he takes the time to savour.

“Appreciating finer things in life brings newfound love and gratitude for what I have, what I will experience and what I am able to share,” says Coquitlam-based Chang.

These days, his focus is on wine. Red, white, rosé. He loves them all and can’t quite pick a favourite. Looking at the assortment of bottles on the table in front of him, he opens a bold French red. He pours it in crystal stemware, raises the glass to look at the colour, then brings it to his nose.

He obviously knows wine and how to appreciate it, but that wasn’t always the case. Chang took the time to learn about wine so he could truly understand what he was drinking. “I was always one of those people who would order the same dish or drink every time, because it is familiar and fail-safe. Experimenting with the new was not something I was comfortable with,” says Chang. He started slowly, first falling in love with scotch whiskey, before developing an affinity for wine. “But I did not know enough,” he says.

Chang, who had a master of business, entrepreneurship and technology from the University of Waterloo, decided to go back to school, this time with the Wine and Spirit Education Trust, or WSET, one of the world’s leading providers of wine education. He attained the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and Spirits and then WSET Certified Educator for Wines and Spirits.

“After four years of learning and developing a deeper appreciation through the WSET courses, I went from not knowing enough to truly understanding just how little I knew. Only this time, I had the proper foundation to really explore the world of infinite possibilities.”

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Today, Chang is all about sharing his knowledge here in the Tri-Cities. He founded VinoZen Academy, a WSETapproved program provider. “We offer world-renowned and industry-recognized wine qualifications for hobbyists and professionals alike. We also provide other classes and workshops to meet your learning and appreciation desires.” In addition to the WSET diplomas, there are starter classes like Intro to Wine, Tasting Techniques and even a Blind Tasting Workshop!

“Imagine, you are in a nice restaurant and order the lobster. The waiter hands you the wine list and your date is staring at you. Do you order a shiraz, a pinot noir, a sauvignon blanc, a chardonnay, a piña colada or a lager — and why?” says Chang.

“Or, what if you are at a liquor store staring at shelf after shelf of bottles? There are so many bottles to choose from, some have scores by top critics, some have fancy bottling, and some have long names written in foreign languages.

Do you beeline to a bottle you are most comfortable with — perhaps with labels that have a footprint or a kangaroo?

It is very common not knowing what to pick.”

For Chang, it’s not about making everyone a sommelier, but about helping them elevate their lifestyle with an appreciation and understanding of wine and spirits.

“To us at VinoZen, wines and spirits are expressions of celebration of life. They pair well with food, occasions, people, nature and emotions. So, what we can do is to provide you with different keys to help open your own door to the world of wines and spirits,” says Chang.

“There is always a beautiful story behind every bottle that has been made with love, care and respect from every possible corner of the world. Appreciate them, one glass at a time.” n

EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SPRING 2020

9

Wine cheat sheet

By Kai Chang

REDS

Cabernet Sauvignon — The king of grapes, the grape of kings. Best examples of this wine are long-lived with lots of depth and complexity. Expect to find hints of black cherry, blackcurrant, cigar, mint and herbaceous notes with lots of tannins and acidity. A “Cab Sauv” pairs great with red meat dishes. Bordeaux and Napa Valley are world-renowned for premium Cabernet Sauvignons although fantastic examples can also be found from various regions in South America, South Africa and Australia.

Merlot — A very versatile grape variety. Although the award-winning movie, Sideways, heavily hurt Merlot’s reputation, what many viewers did not realize was that Miles, the main protagonist, was drinking a Château Cheval Blanc, which is a Merlot blend. Expect to find both red and black fruits with full body and silky smooth texture from tannins with chocolate and fruitcake. Pairs well with beef as well as roast chicken.

Pinot Noir — A very old, finicky, yet delicate grape variety. Pinot Noir is arguably the most precious grape variety of the world, with its best examples coming from Burgundy, France. The best examples show beautiful complexity and balanced structure that cannot be fathomed when looking at its pale colour.

Even though it’s typically paired with red meat and more deep-flavoured dishes, one can almost certainly find a Pinot Noir that will pair well with just about any dish, including Asian dishes like Peking duck. Our very own Okanagan Valley also produces many worldclass Pinot Noirs.

Syrah/Shiraz — A variety, when named Shiraz, is said to be made world famous by its relatively approachable Australian styles that are fruit-forward, full bodied and very quaffable especially with flavourful redmeat dishes. When named Syrah, it implies a more restrained and peppery style that is a signature of the Northern-Rhone region of France. Expect to find hints of black fruits, violet, chocolate and black pepper from a well-made Syrah/Shiraz.

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WHITES

Chardonnay — Best examples can be elegant, crisp and refreshing or can be full-bodied, buttery, complex and concentrated. It can take on oak flavours or it can stand well on its own without much intervention.

Best examples in France come from Burgundy where you can find all styles and expressions, just like Pinot Noir. Pairs well with seafood like oysters and lobster with garlic butter.

Sauvignon Blanc — Made world-famous by the refreshing and intensely perfumed style from New Zealand. What many don’t know is that there are more restrained, graceful and sometimes steely examples from the Loire Valley of France, and complex examples from Bordeaux. From oysters to fish and chips, to rotisserie chicken to grilled salmon, you are likely to find Sauvignon Blanc a great companion to your dishes.

Riesling — When people think of Riesling, they think of sweet wine. Although not incorrect, it is greatly underappreciated as a result. Riesling can vary from dry to lusciously sweet. Germany is world famous for its Riesling, and best examples are full-bodied, complex and highly concentrated, offering citrus fruits, apple, honey and floral notes. Alsace, Australia and Austria are also known to make great dry Rieslings.

They are very fruit friendly due to its flavour profile and high acidity, and its oily, full-bodied and complex examples are great pairing companions to red meat dishes as well as Asian cuisine.

Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris — Probably one of the most ordered white wines at restaurants, Pinot Grigio, from Italy or modelled after that country’s style, is very easy drinking. These wines, when called Pinot Grigio, are crisp, refreshing and light bodied. When called Pinot Gris, they are modelled after the more full-bodied and oily style of Alsace, France, where it can also be off-dry (you can taste a bit of sweetness). Being a pigmentmutated variety from Pinot Noir, one can find an expression of this variety to pair with your dish of choice, from curry to seafood.

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COMMUNITY

JOBS OF TOMORROW Future-proofing our children with three important skills

By Dana Harvey

“W

hat do you want to be when you grow up?”

It’s such a common question we ask our children, but more than half the jobs they may end up doing don’t even exist yet. So, how can we as parents, help prepare them? One of our key roles is to help prepare our children for the changing nature of work so they can learn, adapt, grow and be ready to take on the jobs that exist for them then.

So, what skills do our children need to succeed in the future of work? It remains true that all children need a solid grounding in reading, writing, science and math.

It’s also becoming increasingly obvious that children require at least basic digital literacy as almost all future jobs will involve some element of technology. In addition, there are three skills almost every employer, in every occupation, will need workers to demonstrate.

Teach your children these skills, and they will be set for life — no matter what they do when they grow up!

Clear communication Clear communication is essential for almost every job of today and tomorrow. It’s a skill all children

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start to practise at a young age every time they negotiate with you for a later bedtime or need to explain ideas in the classroom, for example.

Looking into future jobs and careers, the ability to clearly communicate will be more critical than ever, and it is a skill that needs to be honed to excellence for all.

Why? Due to technological advancements, future workers will be connected with coworkers and clients in real time, almost non-stop, all around the world, and global collaboration will be the norm. Ideas will need to be communicated clearly, succinctly and diplomatically. There will be no room for those who talk but don’t listen, who cannot get to the point, or whose messages need to be second-guessed.

A current case in point already supporting the need for highly developed communication skills is Amazon. Known for its “writing culture,” Amazon considers clear and concise writing a critical driver of innovation and a foundational skill that’s needed to be considered for any kind of career advancement.

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BOTTOM: Kids from Build A Biz Kids are entrepreneurs-inthe-making in the Tri-Cities.

Teach your children communication skills at home

problem-solving muscles working, being adaptable comes easier, especially with how fast technology changes. I want to be able to empower the next generation with these skills, which will give them the confidence to be both creative and innovative.”

Code Ninjas will offer after-school and holiday programs for kids aged seven to 14, teaching them to be producers, not just consumers of technology, as they progress from white belt to black belt.

Any activity that helps children listen or give direction — even playing pretend — can help them become a great communicator. These are some games you can play with them to support their communication skills: • Follow the Leader • Simon Says • Show and Tell • 20 Questions

Entrepreneurship As the world changes, as technology advances, as the future of work becomes the work of today, one “job” that will remain strong is that of the entrepreneur.

In fact, the world’s future prosperity is linked to the ability of the next generation to see and embrace opportunities and to grow them into profitable businesses. We need to prepare our children to succeed in an entrepreneurial world.

More than that, the skills of entrepreneurship are simply good life skills that our children should not have to wait to learn.

Did you know that earmuffs, popsicles and trampolines were all invented by children? Kids have great ideas, and encouraging them to develop those ideas with an entrepreneurial mindset helps them gain confidence and learn a myriad

Coding — also known as computer programming — is a great future career choice as it is one of the few that will develop, evolve and still be going strong in the future. More than that, though, coding is a critical life skill that will help our children succeed in any future career.

Why is coding critical?

First of all, coding is the equivalent of basic literacy in the digital age. Reading and writing were once specialized skills that defined people’s places in society; however, over time, literacy became increasingly common and then a critical skill. In our world of advancing technology, coding is on a similar path as literacy; in the future, those without the skill will be left out.

Second, as once stated by Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, “Everybody in this country should learn to program a computer, because it teaches you how to think.” Like learning a language early in life, practising the logic and creativity of coding while young actually influences a child’s developing brain.

Ensure your children learn this soon-to-be-basic skill while their brains are still elastic, so they gain an innate and deep understanding of how to use it to creatively solve the problems of the future.

Rachel Cheng, franchise owner of Code Ninjas, a new children’s program coming soon to the TriCities, explains the benefits of coding further. (See codeninjascoquitlam.com.) “Through coding, kids can learn problem-solving, critical thinking, adaptability and teamwork,” she says. “As a programmer myself, I can understand how powerful it can be to solve a hard problem on your own and have the ability to create something from an idea. Once you have your

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PHOTO COURTESY BUILD A BIZ KIDS

Coding

EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SPRING 2020

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PHOTO COURTESY CODE NINJAS

Code Ninjas is set to open in Coquitlam soon.

of skills including complex problem-solving, creativity, emotional intelligence, resilience, grit, leadership, people management, collaboration and financial literacy.

In the TriCities, Build a Biz Kids, a non-profit organization, is doing just that. It helps kids aged seven to 13 learn entrepreneurial skills by developing their ideas into real, money-making business concepts. (See www.buildabizkids.com.)

“At Build a Biz Kids, our youngest students in the program will be graduating in 2030. Most of the careers they take on after graduation haven’t been designed yet. That means that much of the technical skills being taught to students today will be obsolete by the time they are ready to join the

workforce,” says Leah Cross, president. “Our focus is on developing their foundational skills that will teach them how to adapt to change, but also be the drivers of change, so they can add incredible value to any role they step into as an adult.”

Competitive edge With these three skills — clear communication, coding and entrepreneurship — your children will not only gain a competitive edge for their future careers, but they will also learn valuable life skills that will serve them in all areas of our everevolving world!

“I can’t wait to see what the next generation will bring,” says Cheng. n

Prepping kids for the future: a teacher’s perspective Beyond skillsets like communication, kids today are better preparing for the future thanks to new ways of learning that focus on their strengths and motivation.

Schoolteacher and Coquitlam resident David Blatherwick, who has been teaching Grade 8 for 20 years, says, “Something that definitely has changed since I went to school 30 years ago — the integration of subjects.

Instead of worksheets and completely separated classes, the goal is to bring learning of [subjects like] science and history together into projects that allow students to present their learning in a way that speaks to them. Kids want to show me that they know the organelles of micro-organisms through making a model or video? Great. Showing you

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know the differences between the life of a merchant in Medieval Europe and the Ming Dynasty in China by writing and performing a skit? Fantastic. People — not just kids — learn better when they are engaged.”

Blatherwick, who teaches social studies, science and physical and health education, adds that education used to be about making students fit into the system, but now there is the flexibility to have a system that can adapt to students. “The exciting part of education now is that I am encouraged and supported to help students figure out how they learn best, how to take responsibility for their own learning and how to share what they have learned.

For example, in social studies, instead of having a set curriculum where students

By Jennifer Blatherwick

learn about the ‘great men’ of history, they pick topics from anywhere in the world during a certain period of history.”

For Blatherwick, the most important thing is attitude. “We tell students all the time that their attitude determines their success. They need to respect themselves, their classmates, the school property and the adults supporting them,” he says. “As a teacher, you have to meet them where they are at — just like there are kids that need extra help or focus on their academic skills, some students need more support on developing social responsibility, understanding consequences or coping with attention and organization. Those soft skills that are being developed are as integral to their future success in life as technical skills.” n

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Upgrade your skills at your own pace at home, school or on the go!

Study guides for high school math, science, language arts and more.

Online tutorials for software, design and business.

Online Software Training

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Experience Austin Heights Come explore Austin Heights in the beautiful city of Coquitlam! The city’s longest established business district is home to 270 businesses. Start your day with a latte at the local coffee shop, stroll the streets and discover some of the area’s hidden gems. Head to your appointment at the doctor or dentist. Meet with your lawyer or accountant. Fit in an appointment at the salon. Then, enjoy a meal at any one of the fabulous restaurants, or relax at the end of a busy day at the popular neighbourhood pub. Coquitlam’s most walkable neighbourhood has something for everyone.

Wander through our neighbourhood and you’ll notice special touches from the Austin Heights Business Improvement Association (AHBIA).

Community banners line the street. Power boxes are wrapped in AHBIA colours. Cigarette recycling containers are available for your convenience. Public planters are filled with edible produce ripe for the

picking as part of our Coquitlam Munch program. And, in spring, we celebrate the neighbourhood and our community with Daisy Day — a free street festival with food, music and entertainment that attracts visitors from across the Lower Mainland.

This May, Austin Heights will host Business Improvement Associations (BIAs) from across B.C., Alberta and the U.S., showing off our vibrant neighbourhood and the work done by the Austin Heights BIA, during the BIABC + IDA Pacific Northwest Regional Conference.

The annual conference welcomes businesses and organizations looking to connect, learn and grow with seminars, keynote speakers, tours and networking events. We’re excited to share our wonderful neighbourhood with other BIAs and highlight everything Austin Heights has to offer. Whatever you need, Austin Heights has it all!

PHOTO COURTESY COQUITLAM PUBLIC LIBRARY

to “do-it-yourself” will enjoy Creative Bug, an online platform with hundreds of classes on crafts and making.

Those looking for digital reads can access ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines and newspapers from around the world with no risk of late fees.

The City Centre branch’s Innovation Hub (1169 Pinetree Way) is home to 3D printers, computers loaded with design software and virtual reality equipment.

The library strives to reduce barriers to accessing and learning about new technologies, giving people the tools they need to bring creative projects to life.

Programs for kids

The library maintains at least one long-standing offering — story times for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. These popular sessions COMMUNITY help prepare young children for school and encourage a lifelong enjoyment of reading. The library also offers stories and activities for adults with developmental disabilities and their family members, friends LEARN SOMETHING NEW AT COQUITLAM PUBLIC LIBRARY and caregivers.

For students, the library offers

By Jay Peters Solaro, a learning tool based on the hen was the last time you visited the library? If it’s BC grades 4–12 curriculum as well been a while, you may be surprised to learn that as after school programs in which teens help younger libraries have significantly expanded beyond the students: Reading Buddies, Homework Help and Parleztraditional notions of hushed spaces and book borrowing.

Nous en Français.

In fact, public libraries have kept pace with growing The focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering and technological trends in information and education. Coquitlam math) in the BC curriculum has inspired the library to offer Public Library (coqlibrary.ca) offers a variety of tools and hands-on learning. An annual Science Expo allows grade programs to support everyone in our diverse community.

4–12 students to showcase their projects to a large audience.

Todd Gnissios, executive director, says, “Your local library This year’s Expo is May 14, 2020, at the City Centre branch. allows anyone to access information and resources from Children learn by playing with the library’s Ozobot Bits anywhere in the world to support lifelong learning.” and Sphero SPRKs, mini robots that can be coded to follow commands. These robots are available for loan, as are In-person and online learning telescopes and tablets loaded with educational games.

In addition to in-library programs such as small business A wealth of information and services can be found inseminars, career prep workshops and computer basics branch at City Centre Branch or Poirier Branch (575 Poirier classes, library customers have access to learning databases Street), and beyond its physical walls. So, what are you like Lynda.com for software, business and design skills, and waiting for? Sign up for a free library card today and see what Transparent Online for language learning. Those inclined it can do for you! n

A new chapter for libraries

W

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TRAVEL

River cruising 10 REASONS TO CHOOSE A RIVER CRUISE FOR YOUR NEXT VACATION

By Jean Freitas, Maritime Travel Port Moody

I

must admit the first river cruise I did was for one simple reason — I get seasick. I love to ocean cruise, but it doesn’t like me back. Solution: river cruises as the waters are always calm. Once I sailed the Rhine, I was hooked. I have now sailed on 10 river cruises!

Sailing along the rivers is a very relaxing way to spend a holiday. There is nothing like sailing along the river watching the castles and vineyards go by or docking in the heart of towns and being able to walk along the pathway or head into town for a coffee and pastry. You can be as active or relaxed as you wish.

Here are 10 more reasons to go river cruising: 1. Small intimate ships with single-seating dining and gourmet meals.

2. Specialty cruises with themes such as wine lover, active and discovery, beer tasting, culinary, Christmas markets and tulip time.

3. Choose your style — all excursions included, all spirits included, or a combination thereof. Each cruise line is different in their inclusions.

4. Casual dress code — you can leave your tux and tiara at home.

5. Unlike ocean cruises you always see land — on both sides of the ship.

6. Unpack once and settle in.

7. Local entertainment and experts are brought on borard for your benefit.

8. Some river cruise lines will waive the single supplement.

9. Many river cruise lines have family-specific sailings.

10. Port intensive — it’s about the destinations more than the ships.

Although Europe is the most popular destination with rivers such as the Rhine, Douro and Danube, you are not limited to one continent. There are sailings all over the world such as the Mekong in Cambodia, Ganges in India, the Amazon in South America, the Nile in Africa, and closer to home the Mississippi, St. Lawrence and Columbia rivers.

Distances between ports on river cruises are quite short, and boats will often dock at a different location each morning and evening.

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The staterooms are comfortable although sizes can be smaller then some ocean cruises. Lines like Avalon Waterways use the space effectively to create a generous room size with floor-to-ceiling sliding windows.

River cruising has risen dramatically in popularity over recent years, and although they are more expensive than a budget-type vacation, there are no hidden costs, crowds or lineups.

But, if you find cruise advertisements that sound too good to be true, they probably are. There are many river cruise companies out there, so enlist the aid and services of a travel agent or river cruise specialist who has the experience of selecting and booking river cruises. n

Advertise in our SUMMER 2020 EDITION! Contact us today!

Judith Lucas judith.lucas@experiencetricities.ca 604-722-5188 www.experiencetricities.ca THE TRI-CITIES COMMUN ITY LIFESTYLE MAGA ZI NE

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WORK AND BUSINESS

WORKING DESIGN

A well-designed workplace can make you happier and more productive

By Saida Macintosh

A

growing cultural shift within organizations has been on employee wellbeing initiatives, including creating a welcoming work environment. Research has indicated that a welcoming work environment can affect your business’ ROI in a positive way, bolster team morale and enhance overall productivity.

Have you been thinking of turning an uninspiring workspace into something that wows visitors, and motivates current and prospective employees? Here are a few tips to help you move from the traditional office space to one that’s a strategic tool for productivity, collaboration and growth.

being emulated by companies across Canada and the United States. Shira Rosenburg, owner of DOS Design Group in Coquitlam, cautions not to simply copy what other companies are doing, however.

“What makes an office environment productive, collaborative and proficient is different for every company,” she says.

Some things to consider when planning your workspace are disruption elements, such as noise barriers, as well as physical barriers. “Don’t just grab onto the latest craze you see on the internet.

Talk to your employees. Take their work into consideration,” she says.

Know your employees

Light it up

Your employees spend 40 hours a week in the office, so creating a positive working atmosphere can increase creativity and innovation, improve employee retention and overall happiness, as well as increase energy and proficiency — all of which is saving the company time and money in the long run.

Companies like Facebook, Hubspot and Google have very positive workplace cultures that are

The right office lighting can keep employees alert and focused, while a poorly lit room can lead to tiredness, headaches and eye discomfort.

Bright lights easily elevate a person’s mood, giving them a sense of motivation. In an article published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, it was noted that a dimly lit office or too many artificial lights tend to make employees sluggish, tired and can

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LEFT: An office

renovation by Highlands Master Builders.

RIGHT: Andrew

Macintosh, president, Highlands Master Builders in Coquitlam.

affect cortisol levels, making it difficult to manage stress, and can increase or lead to mood disorders.

Andrew Macintosh, president of Highlands Master Builders, based in Coquitlam, points out why fluorescent lights are a no-no. “Fluorescent tubes naturally flicker in such a way that has been proven to cause migraines, dizziness, eye strain and emit UV radiation outside the safe range for our eyes, which can actually cause long-term, permanent damage,” he says.

“Natural light is best. Letting plenty of natural light shine into a workspace is a proven way to increase productivity, not to mention your overall mood and wellbeing. This helps to maintain an overall positive mindset throughout the day. Unfortunately, that may not be an option for all workspaces.”

The alternative, Macintosh explains, is smart LED lighting, “We advise our clients to invest in automatic LED fixtures. This kind of light feels gentler and is designed to adjust automatically for a more natural feeling.”

Invest in ergonomics Employees spend a lot of time working at their desks, so investing in quality furniture drastically improves comfort, interaction, collaboration and productivity.

Research compiled by the Mayo Clinic suggests that there is a significant increased risk of obesity, high blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels that can be attributed to prolonged sitting. By offering employees options in workstations, they can switch up how and where they work throughout the day.

This can combat fatigue and burnout and help with mental and creative clarity.

Some things to consider when choosing to upgrade your office furniture include: • Ergonomic furniture is an awesome way

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to improve productivity. By designing a workspace that allows for good posture, less exertion and fatigue, better heights and reaches, the workstation becomes more efficient. Adjustable desks give employees the option to be more active.

•

Computer monitors are best at or just below eye level. Also, make sure that the eye is around 24 to 36 inches away from the computer screen.

•

Ergonomic chairs are a great way to help employees minimize back problems, as well as general aches and pains. Chair posture should be slightly reclined. This can help reduce the amount of pressure on your spine and also helps to reduce lower back pain.

Space to collaborate Presently, many newly renovated offices have implemented breakout spaces. These areas are designed to give employees an alternative space to work away from their desks. It’s been an attractive selling point when recruiting Millennials and Gen-Zs. Being creative with your office floor plan can maximize collaboration and give employees the option to choose how they work.

Knocking down wall barriers offer a sense of visual connectivity that inspires collaboration. “For those who want to collaborate in a quieter space,” Macintosh explains, “there are some really cool architectural building solutions for office furniture that our fabricators are working on. For instance, we can build breakout areas with coffers that give you acoustic privacy. It’s a great low-cost solution to an open office.” n

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People like Kelly Lum, who has been a sales manager since 1995 — that’s almost 25 years!

Lum has a big smile for all who visit the dealership on the corner of Lougheed Hwy and Christmas Way. “The most enjoyable part of my job is helping people as the car world keeps evolving,” he says. “We need to be just as informed as years ago when vehicles were not so sophisticated.”

Helping people comes naturally to Lum, who is also a local Rotarian, regularly supporting the service club’s community projects. “We believe in service above self,” says Lum, who has also been married for 36 years.

Lum, whose favourite things outside of work include travel, golf and family gatherings, adds: “When considering Coquitlam Chrysler for a new or preowned vehicle, know that there is an effort among all employees — whether entry-level or owner — to maintain the customer’s confidence in choosing us as the dealership of choice.”

FOOD AND CULTURE

Singer-songwriter Etienne Siew brings storytelling, healing and a love for the outdoors together in his music

By Rose Kapp

P

ursuing your dreams takes dedication, and in Coquitlam-based musician Etienne Siew’s case, he’s transforming his dreams into reality, one note at a time.

The alternative folk singer-songwriter, who studied sports science before deciding to focus on his music, realized he could bring just as much healing to people through music and storytelling.

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“In my late 20s, I decided to pursue music professionally for a few reasons. Being educated in sports science, I noticed how I was able to help heal and make people stronger through exercise, but through music there is something unseen and very special I have witnessed. Music has an amazing ability to impact the listener and provide escape, inspiration, feelings of nostalgia and, above all, healing.”

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PHOTO COURTESY ETIENNE SIEW

MUSIC FOR THE SOUL

Siew’s music encompasses the feelings of vulnerability he experiences in life, the raw emotions of love, loss and friendship, all tied together with the beauty he finds in the outdoors. He weaves these experiences into true and imaginative storylines as in the song “Where She Belongs.” The result is music many of us can relate to.

“My music is generally born from some sort of emotional experience or from something someone around me has gone through. Most times the story comes first and then an acoustic or vocal melody follows, but there is no set way of doing this for me,” says Siew, who recently released Better Man, a six-song EP recorded at Paranoyd Sound Studios in Port Moody.

There’s a lot of work and planning behind releasing and performing your own music. Siew has had to learn everything about his new business including promotion, booking, grant writing, social media as well as the artistic side of music production, filming, video editing, sound engineering and content. He seeks out the support of fellow music professionals where he can, pushing himself out of his comfort zone as well as ensuring he

schedules enough time for his craft. “Sometimes I’m so busy with the business end of things that I realize I haven’t actually touched my guitar in a week.”

When it comes to performing, Siew has been busy with more frequent and larger performances, including a 2018 tour on the Sunshine Coast he planned and booked himself. He prefers concert-style venues and performs his own songs with few covers. Occasionally, he will push his gentle voice into blues and folk-rock. Listening to him is like being around a campfire, intimate and reflective. Except for a bit of reverb to fill out his voice, it’s just Siew, a guitar and his heartfelt originals.

He admits to feeling some nerves before a performance — not stage fright but feelings of vulnerability. “Your soul is on display for the world, so I always try to remind myself the impact I want to have and why I am doing this. That I am going to rock it, and after two or three songs, everything just starts to melt away and I hit my stride.”

Siew’s Better Man EP is available now on Apple Music, Spotify and CD Baby, or listen at etiennesiew.com. n

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EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SPRING 2020

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FOOD AND CULTURE

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For the foodie in you 5 FOOD TRENDS FOR 2020 TO SHOW OFF YOUR CULINARY KNOW-HOW

By Andrea Jabour

I

f you follow food influencers, bloggers and celebrity chefs on social media, you know that new trends pop up in your Instagram or Facebook feed every year. Just like fashion or home design, there are ideas, styles or ingredients that become more and more popular — 2020 is no different. For all the foodies out there, here are five trends to keep your eye on.

1. Plant-based meats Visited a fast food joint lately? It seems as though everyone is getting in on the “plant-based” action.

Plant-based burgers, nuggets, pizza toppings and even jerky seem to be everywhere. Even local supermarkets are starting to carry alternative products next to the ground beef and chicken thighs. Although they are not necessarily “health” foods, they do provide an option for those wishing to reduce their animal-product intake. But do your research and read the labels.

2. Rise of the infused spirit

As the current environmental trend toward reducing our carbon footprint continues, so does the prevalence of clever uses for our food scraps.

While composting continues to be debated, we’re seeing more and more recipes using your scraps to create new dishes. One example is making your own vegetable stock. By keeping your vegetable scraps instead of throwing them away, you can make your own stock to add to other recipes instead of buying a pre-made product.

Yes … you read that right. No longer is the

5. Ube’s purple power

This purple yam is no stranger to Filipino cooking and desserts, but you may start to see it pop up on many restaurant menus and cookbooks over the coming year. It’s sweeter than its orange cousin, with a slightly nutty, vanilla taste. Want to start with something easy? Don’t miss the Sorbetes (ube and vanilla ice cream) at Kulinarya Filipino Eatery in Coquitlam.

Because of the ube’s purple colour, it is also Instagram-able as heck. Step aside acai, there’s a new purple food in town. n

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HUMMUS PHOTO COURTESY DELIGHTED BY DESSERTS

3. Dessert hummus

| SPRING 2020

4. Reducing food waste

Because of the ube’s purple colour, it is also Instagram-able as heck.

The craft beer movement has had the spotlight for a while and for good reason, but now another beverage option is creeping up behind. The rise of the local spirit-based cocktail. A good mixed drink with a local spirit with real ingredients is a treat.

The Apple Rosemary Gin & Tonic, Pom Gimlet and Cranberry Muddler at Provincial Spirits Workshop and Tasting House in Port Coquitlam sure sound good to me.

Local fruit and botanicals can make for some wonderful beverages that not only highlight some creative distillers, but promote local farmers and growers — a win-win!

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Mediterranean chickpea spread only being seen with vegetables and crackers; it is now appearing with chocolate and other sweet accompaniments.

Snickerdoodle hummus? Hmm, I’m game. It’s a legume, so doesn’t count as dessert, right?

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HOME AND FAMILY

DESIGNING YOUR SANCTUARY What home design trends are in — and out — for 2020?

By Cheryl Jordan

I

t’s 2020, and it feels like a year for extreme change; the carbon footprint of home building and design is big, and I’m hopeful we’re all paying attention. From a consumer standpoint, impulse shopping is out; practising patience and thinking sustainability is in. Buying temporary furniture to fill a space is a thing of the past, it’s wasteful.

Waiting for that perfect piece to reveal itself is worth it — and the environment will thank us.

Our homes need to be our sanctuary now more than ever. Harsh, cold industrial design is out. We’re creating spaces that nurture and envelope us, where we want to enjoy our families and the important things in life.

Warm imperfection Mixing and matching old with new, and living with worn pieces that have patina is in. Perfection is out, you should feel comfortable and at ease in your home without concern for precious objects.

Is your house layered with the cool grey tones of the 2010 era? Time to warm it up with chocolatey earth tones and palettes that include olive green,

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yellow ochre and rich wine colours. Out are the pale monochromatic schemes of all white, grey or taupe. They’re making room for bold monochromatic schemes using colours like Pantone’s colour of the year, Classic Blue 19-4052.

When it comes to making a change to your home, you get the best bang for your buck with paint. Rich, dark cabinet doors are on trend and add character and warmth to a space, so keep that in mind if you’re getting the paint brushes out in 2020.

Beyond paint Wallpaper just gets better and bolder, and we say go for it! If you’re shy about using a bold print or colour, try it in a small space like the powder room. I promise you’re going to feel the love.

Fully or half-upholstered walls are in, too, and they make a great option for a headboard. Have any antique landscape tapestries packed away? They’re back in style! Hanging them up on your walls will add a beautiful, warm focal point to your space.

Single print drama is not for everyone, but it is a trend. Yes, that means carrying the same print on

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LEFT AND BELOW: Designs by First Impression Designs.

Photos by Oliver Rathonyi-Reusz

RIGHT: Cheryl Jordan.

Photo by Carly Overs

your sofa, wallpaper and drapery floor to ceiling. I think the look is bold, stylish and perfectly glamorous!

Breathing life into your home Biophilic design is in. What’s that, you say? We’re adding living walls to our spaces because we want to feel more connected to nature and there are health benefits, too. We’re so connected to our technology today, a simple low maintenance biomantage is not going to only make your space more

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Harsh, cold industrial design is out.

We’re creating spaces that nurture and envelope us.

beautiful, but it could improve your mental health and our ecosystem.

It’s a win-win!

There are many design trends in 2020 and every year for that matter.

Be mindful that all trends are cyclical, so take your time deciding which ones are right for you and will stand the test of time. n Cheryl Jordan is a design associate with First Impression Designs in Coquitlam.

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HOME AND FAMILY

Good credit GETTING A MORTGAGE WITH A GOOD INTEREST RATE

By Ryan Oake

Y

our credit score will be one of the biggest single factors in determining your approval for a mortgage and the interest rate you qualify for. Here are five factors that will impact what kind of credit score you have, from 300 at the weakest, to 900 at the strongest.

1. Credit mix. The different types of credit you have attached to your name, such as credit cards, lines of credit, car loans, student loans and so on are a small factor in your credit score (about 10 per cent). Lenders like to see two different types of credit on your credit bureau.

2. New credit. Inquiries made for adding new credit to your name and the opening of new credit cards or loans also have an impact (about 10 per cent). Many people are under the impression that every time your credit score is requested, it will take a hit. When it comes to applying for a mortgage, there is no real impact on your credit score when an independent mortgage broker requests a copy.

3. History. Your credit history is a bit more important (about 15 per cent). It relates to the length of time you have had different types of credit loans open. Lenders like to see a minimum two-year history for each type of credit.

4. Utilization. Lenders look more intensely (about 30 per cent) at how much of your available credit you owe and how much you have access to. They add the total available credit limits across all credit cards and lines of credit, and subtract all outstanding balances. Having 75 per cent or more of all available credit outstanding will negatively impact your score.

5. Payment history. Your payment history relates to whether you make your payments on time and in what amount. Every month you need to pay the minimum, however, the more you can pay, the better. A single missed payment can have significant impacts on your credit score, more so than any other factor listed above. Missing two consecutive months of payments or two payments within the same year can put you on the fence between being approved or declined regardless of available down payment, income or overall score. n Ryan Oake is an accredited mortgage professional with Oake Mortgage. Learn more at oakemortgage.ca.

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HOME AND FAMILY

Changing neighbourhoods MLA SELINA ROBINSON ON WORKING TOGETHER TO KEEP OUR COMMUNITIES VIBRANT

By Jennifer McKinnon

I

t was never about politics, in the beginning or now.

Today, as she holds the title of minister of municipal affairs and housing, MLA Selina Robinson says it was just about finding a way to give back to her community. Robinson and her husband, Dan, live in the Ranch Park neighbourhood of Coquitlam where they raised their two, now adult, kids. They grew up in what, back then, was a typical family home. Their house, situated in a quiet cul-de-sac, was frequently visited by the neighbours; kids went outside to play kick-the-can with each other. And when Robinson was diagnosed with cancer in 2006, she reflects on the importance of community and how her neighbours were there for her.

“They checked in. They made sure I was OK and brought me food,” she says, reminiscing about the delicious tiramisu from one neighbour; Robinson has no hesitation confessing that she refused to share it.

Unfortunately, this community feel is all changing, explains Robinson.

“Neighbourhoods are changing. Kids are growing up and moving away, and families can’t afford to stay or move into the neighbourhood. This, in turn, makes it hard for the small businesses in the area to survive.

It all creates a reverberating effect.”

Robinson says that governments need to create policies that keep vibrancy in neighbourhoods. “We need to bring back affordable housing for families, which will in turn support small businesses, all of which help us to connect with each other. Think about how we see our neighbours in grocery stores, coffee shops and so on. If we hollow out our neighbourhoods, there is no one there for the businesses. I don’t want people to just survive. I want them to thrive.”

But she admits change is a process. “It takes a long time to create change,” Robinson claims as she thinks back to when she was door knocking in 2017.

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“I remember speaking to a couple about their home and thinking how great it was that they were in the neighbourhood.” It was then that they told Robinson they were living with their in-laws. “They wanted a house, but they couldn’t find anything affordable. I worry for the next generation. Young people need to go out and figure things out on their own at that age.

Living with your parents doesn’t allow you to do that.

That’s why I push so hard on affordable rentals and better land use.”

If these issues are important in our community, Robinson suggests getting out to public hearings. “If these are relatable issues for you, council needs to hear the voices of those who want to see these changes.”

Standing up at a council hearing for what she believes in is, in fact, what got her started in politics.

Robinson, with a psychology undergraduate and master’s degree from SFU, was working with youth and addictions and recalls the uproar caused by the Cold Wet Weather Mat Program (CWWMP) hosted by several Tri-Cities churches to offer shelter during the colder months for people living on the street.

Robinson remembers how sad she felt that peoples’ fear and anxiety surrounding the program interfered with their compassion and the problem at hand. “If we don’t invite people into our communities, then who are we? I remember being puzzled and heartbroken about how we got here,” she says. “We have a responsibility as individuals, as a society, to heal the world.”

Robinson began receiving unsigned letters in her mailbox, opposing the support of the CWWMP, which is still in operation today. It was at this time that she decided to speak up about the issue. And so, Robinson went to speak at council, which also happened to be the longest public hearing in Coquitlam’s history.

Robinson fondly remembers, the now retired MP of Port Moody–Coquitlam, Fin Donnelly’s words to her

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RIGHT: MLA Selina Robinson.

about running for council. She started thinking about the work she was currently doing, with one family at a time as a family therapist, and the possibility of doing something with a greater impact, a possible solution to helping create more resilient communities and stronger families.

Prior to being elected, Robinson was no stranger to the needs of the people and community. Robinson ran a home-based family therapy practice and was the director of development for SHARE Family and Community Services (sharesociety.ca), an organization providing support to those in need in the Tri-Cities. Robinson then served the City of Coquitlam for two terms (2008–2013), before being elected to the provincial government in 2013 and then re-elected in 2017, representing Coquitlam-Maillardville.

Although now a minister, she believes government is not the only answer to those problems. “I don’t believe that government is necessarily the best way to take care of people. It’s communities. Things will happen to you that are hard to manage. But what helps you get through those times is other people. You lose your job, you know there’s someone around to help you; divorce, death, etc. it’s the people you are surrounded by that get you through.” n

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HOME AND FAMILY

Curb appeal SPRING INTO ACTION WITH THESE HOME CLEANUP TIPS

By Louise Hendricks, RE/MAX All Points Port Moody

T

he spring real estate market is upon us. Spring cleanup is important for any home, but it is especially important for a house going on the market.

Your home needs to shine at first glance! You need to have curb appeal!

But what does that really mean?

Potential buyers will be looking for visual clues that your home is well cared for and will often do a drive-by before they decide to look inside. To give them the best impression of your home, consider the following tips.

To start, go outside your home and look at it from the sidewalk. Does the garden need a cleanup? If your home

has trees, there are likely fallen branches and leaves on the ground after a long rainy winter. Clearing up the lawn and garden should be your first priority. Mow the lawn and add fresh sod if needed. Trim shrubs and trees. Plant fresh flowers and greenery.

After that, look at the house itself. Power wash the siding and walkways. Make sure you are not causing damage to your siding. If you are in doubt, call a professional.

A detail often overlooked is to clean the windows inside and out. It really makes a huge difference. The house will literally sparkle as people drive by.

Once the house is clean, look further at the condition of the siding, facia boards, trim and eaves troughs. Replace any rotting facia boards or wood trim. Any dirty or damaged eaves troughs or downspouts should be cleaned, replaced or mended.

Exterior painting may also be a good idea. Repainting a front door makes a world of difference and is so inviting.

Repaint or stain the front porch or stoop as well. Add a welcome mat and a planter of flowers by the front door.

Nighttime curb appeal is important, too.

Make sure all the exterior lights are working and that the numbers on the house are visible and easy to read.

Once you have done all that, you are ready to tackle the inside of the house. But first call your realtor to take a look at what really needs doing before you list your home for sale. In most cases, a good clean, decluttering and possibly some fresh paint is all that is wneeded. Before you list is not the time for an expensive unnecessary renovation as you may not get a return on your money. n Louise Hendriks is a realtor with RE/MAX All Points Port Moody. She can give you a free market evaluation and talk about preparing your home to sell for top dollar. Call her at 604-454-4367.

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I started my journey around 5 years ago and through books and Youtube have learned about many methods of self-care. However, at one point in my evolution, I started to feel that I was not moving forward, I felt stuck! It wasn’t until White Lotus came into my life that everything started to shift quickly and dramatically. All of the women that are a part of the store have taught me so much and given me such special advice that I can honestly say progressed my healing tenfold. The practitioners are powerful and hold so much experience and knowledge which enabled me to shift back into balance and continue my personal journey. I would have never been able to bounce back so rapidly on my own. If you are just starting your journey or are deep within it, I highly recommend stopping by the store for a healing, a reading or just to browse through all of their amazing locally and ethically sourced products. I can promise you will feel a shift simply by walking in and having a chat with whoever is on shift that day. It is one of the most safe and special places you can rely on to find great advice and products that heal.

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Starfish packs LOCAL ROTARY CLUB PROGRAM GIVES BACK

By Jennifer McKinnon

I

f you think about what you do within a typical week, it probably involves work, maybe kids, school, activities, grocery shopping and making dinner. A Rotarian’s week is a little different. Aside from their weekly meetings with guest speakers, planning projects and looking for ways to support needs within the Tri-Cities, each Friday, you’ll find them busy filling backpacks.

In partnership with local schools and other community groups and volunteers, Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Coquitlam Sunrise and Port Coquitlam Centennial organize and prepare backpacks of food for students identified as being in need to help feed them and their families over the weekend. The Starfish Pack Program was started by the Rotary Clubs in Abbotsford in 2013 in response to stories from teachers of students arriving to school hungry. The growing program currently operates in 20 communities, serving approximately 150 schools and more than 1,600 students.

The Rotary Club of Coquitlam Sunrise has been involved with the Starfish Pack Program since April 2014, beginning with a pilot

program at one local elementary school. They now support four Coquitlam elementary schools, helping feed 38 students and their families.

“It truly is a community partnership,” says Jason Jakubek, Rotarian of Coquitlam Sunrise. “Save-On Foods at Pinetree has been our food provider since the beginning and continues to fill our menu, designed by the Abbotsford Food Bank with input from local nutritionists. Volunteers, including our members from the Coquitlam Sunrise Club, a packing team from Resonate Church that manages two schools and a volunteer team at one of the elementary schools, pick up the backpacks at the schools on Wednesday and the food from Save-On Foods and fill the backpacks.”

There is no cost to the families participating. The program is supported through the generosity of local donors and sponsors and third-party fundraisers. All administrative costs are covered by the Rotary Club so 100 per cent of donations and sponsorships go to the purchase of food items and backpacks for the students.

Thanks to the pricing offered by Save-On, the annual cost for a backpack for each student for the school year is only $575. n

Thinking of selling this spring?

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38 EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES

| SPRING 2020

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PHOTO COURTESY ROTARY CLUB

HOME AND FAMILY

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

PHOTO COURTESY ALEX BELL

Conquer the Crunch!

5 tips to help you crush the famed Coquitlam Crunch hike

By Alex Bell

C

oquitlam is blessed with a natural community asset known as the Coquitlam Crunch. Although it has been a local feature for many years, the Crunch really took off in 2012 when stairs was built on the lower steep section just off Lansdowne Drive. Then, in 2017, another set of stairs was added to parallel the first set.

There are 437 steps on the original set of stairs and 457 on the second, and it’s free, open all year-round, and suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

The full Crunch experience It’s not just about the stairs. If you want the full experience, you should start in the parking lot located between Scott Creek Middle School and Eagle Ridge Elementary school off Lansdowne Drive. From the parking lot, the trail goes up, crosses Lansdowne and then it is up the stairs. Which set you go up is your choice. This is the steepest part of the trail.

You will then cross Lansdowne Drive again at the top of the stairs, and then you are on a gradual rise that will take you across two more streets. The one-way trip is 2.27 kilometres and gains more than 270 metres in elevation!

start, then you keep going on the gradual rise to the top of the trail.

2. Remember the Crunch is south-facing. That means on hot days, the trail really heats up. So, bring a hat and water. If you forget, Northside Four Square Church often has a table with cold water by the trail in the summer.

3. If you want to avoid the heat, early morning or late evening is the best time to go. This is also the best time to observe the wildlife on the trail. Deer are common visitors among the wild roses, but you may also see snakes, hummingbirds, bunnies, coyotes and even bears.

4. Bringing along a furry four-legged friend? When you cross David Avenue, you will walk right by a dog park.

There is a water pipe there for your dog’s refreshment.

5. If you want to make this a social activity, then there is another way to enjoy the Crunch. Starting

1. Decide what kind of workout you want. If you want

in April through to September, there is a drop-in group called the Coquitlam Craft Crunchers that walk the Crunch one evening per week, starting at 7 pm from the parking lot of the Mariner Brewery on Barnet and Lansdowne.

This turns the walk into a 7-kilometre round trip, ending off with some food and drinks back at the brewery.

Learn more about this group on Marine Brewing’s Facebook page. n

an intense workout, do circuits on the stairs. You can go in one direction to begin with and then change direction to switch things up. If you want more of an endurance workout, then don’t just stay on the stairs; continue to the top. Your heart is pumping at the

Alex Bell is a Coquitlam Crunch enthusiast and founder of the Coquitlam Crunch “Diversity” Challenge fundraiser (coquitlamcrunch.com), which happens in the second weekend of September.

Crunch tips Worried about your stair stamina? Here are five tips to help you conquer the Coquitlam Crunch.

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EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SPRING 2020

39

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

We row crew

From teens to seniors, there are many opportunities in the Tri-Cities to get out on the water with this social sport

By Andrea Jabour

I

n the 2010 film The Social Network, the mantra “We row crew” was reflective of the sport of the Harvard elite, when, in fact, nothing could be further from the truth. It’s an accessible, social sport that has benefits far beyond the fibreglass shell. Here in the Tri-Cities, residents have many options to get out on the water, but rowing is one activity that can accommodate a wide range of abilities and ages.

The Inlet Rowing Club was established in 2000 and makes its home at the Old Mill Boathouse in Port Moody, adjacent to Rocky Point Park. It’s an organization whose goal is to promote the sport with exciting and fun opportunities to try rowing by catering to the needs of both recreational and competitive rowers. They also have skilled coaches on hand to help members reach their personal goals.

According to Christine Dyson, head coach at the Rowing Club, the sport is a great way to foster community, especially among their youth members.

It is an easy way to segue into a sport at a later age with very few barriers to entry. Other than having to meet a minimum size requirement to fit safely into the boat, it is a sport that can grow with you into your later years. Many rowers, including Dyson, discover the sport after an injury.

“I came to rowing after a knee injury as it’s a non-

40 EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES

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weight bearing, low-impact sport that allows for allover body work,” says Dyson. “Our oldest member is well into his 70s, but just started two years ago!”

The youth program at the Inlet Rowing Club is a great place to start if you have a teen interested in getting out on the water. Most start at age 14, but some can start at 11 or 12 if they are tall enough.

The club has a Learn-to-Row program for people who have never experienced rowing before. It is a six-lesson commitment with the goal of having the participant row proficiently in a quad (four rowers).

It allows a taste of the sport, which can then lead to a competitive youth racing scenario or a recreational program. Learn-to-Row programs start in May or June, depending on interest levels.

This year, Coach Dyson is looking for eager teens who have an interest in rowing to compete at the 2020 BC Summer Games in Maple Ridge.

The club is hoping to enter in both the Under 15 and Under 19 age categories. Currently, the Port Moody area doesn’t have a team for the younger age category, and Dyson would love to find some eager rowers to work with.

For more information on all the programs offered at the Inlet Rowing Club, you can visit inletrowingclub.com. n

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LEFT: Dr. Aaron Binstock of Strive Health and Performance.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

who try to stay in the game can take up to two times longer to recover, which also puts them at risk for additional injury.

If your child is vomiting, has a severe or worsening headache, has trouble staying awake or answering simple questions, they should be taken to hospital emergency immediately.

What steps should you take for optimal recovery?

Concussions and our kids IT’S A TOPIC THAT CAN’T BE PUSHED ASIDE IN TODAY’S AGGRESSIVE SPORTS PROGRAMS

A

re your kids playing hockey, football or other sports that could lead to injury or a concussion?

We talked to local concussion management expert Dr. Aaron Binstock of Strive Health and Performance (strivehealthandperformance.ca) in Coquitlam to learn more about concussions and the risks for our children on the sports field.

ETC: What exactly is a concussion and why is it important?

AB: A concussion is a form of brain injury that causes a temporary disturbance in how your brain functions.

Concussions happen because of a hit, bump or blow to the head or elsewhere on the body. This impact causes the brain to move back and forth inside the skull. Most concussions don’t result in loss of consciousness.

It’s important to remember that a concussion is a functional injury, not structural. It is not a bruise of the brain, and can’t be seen on routine X-rays, CT scans or MRIs.

Can you prevent concussions?

Unfortunately, there is nothing that can fully prevent a concussion, including helmets and mouth guards. It’s still recommended you where these pieces of equipment, as helmets can help prevent skull fractures or other catastrophic brain injuries, and mouth guards help protect your mouth and teeth. However, these pieces of equipment can’t prevent concussions.

Can athletes continue to play or practise if they think they sustained a concussion?

In all suspected cases of concussion, it’s important to stop the activity immediately. Research shows us that athletes

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Research shows that the quicker you seek an assessment and treatment, the greater the chance of a faster recovery. Anyone suspected of concussion shouldn’t just go see a doctor, they should seek a collaborative approach with a licensed health care professional with training in concussion management.

What can you do to treat a concussion?

Rest is no longer considered the best approach to concussion care. Contrary to popular belief, there are many ways to treat a concussion. Research demonstrates the benefits of early intervention of treatment and rehabilitation to support concussion management and improve recovery. Therapies can include physical exercise, cervical spine (neck), vestibular (balance, dizziness, coordination), visual, psychological, nutritional and more.

What’s baseline testing?

Baseline testing is a valuable tool to help health care providers in concussion care. It’s important to note that baseline testing is not used to diagnose a concussion, but helps in making a decision on return to play. But not all baseline tests are equal. A baseline test should include a variety of tests, not just a single computer test or SCAT5, and should always be administered and interpreted by a health care professional with training in concussion management.

How long does it take to recover from a concussion?

Most people feel “back to normal” (symptoms go away) within 10 to 14 days after injury, but a full recovery is typically within three to four weeks. Children as well as people with a history of concussions or mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression, may take longer to recover. It’s important to remember that just because your symptoms go away does not mean you’ve fully recovered from a concussion. You need to follow your health care provider’s advice and complete a full return-to-school, work or sport protocol before being fully cleared. n

EXPERIENCE TRI-CITIES | SPRING 2020

41

LEFT: Dr. Sharon Gurm.

What are the benefits of an integrative approach?

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Cancer care with a difference DR. SHARON GURM SHARES WHAT AN INTEGRATIVE CARE APPROACH LOOKS LIKE

T

oday, patients have many different options when it comes to seeking integrative care. Dr. Sharon Gurm, BSc, ND, FABNO, a naturopathic physician (oncology) and founder and medical director of Port Moody Health – Integrative Medicine and Cancer Care (portmoodyhealth. com), helps us to understand how taking a holistic, integrative approach can have an impact on cancer.

ETC: How do you describe an integrative approach to health care compared to the conventional approach?

SG: The conventional approach to health care follows a diseasefocused model primarily with pharmaceutical management.

Integrative health care blends naturopathic medicine with conventional medicine, defining a new standard of care.

Integrative health care considers many aspects of disease, health and overall wellbeing. It follows a patientfocused model of health care that involves therapeutic interventions — including diet, nutrition, lifestyle, mindbody medicine, use of natural health products, physical therapy and counselling — aimed at prevention, disease treatment and management. While this may include pharmaceuticals where appropriate, the backbone of integrative care is a functional, whole-person approach.

How can the two approaches be combined?

Integrative medicine is not a replacement to conventional care; rather it elevates conventional care to a higher standard. Integrative care “integrates” conventional care with a combination of evidence-supported therapeutic strategies and often requires an “integration” of several providers as part of the health care team for the individual.

It is a modern approach to health care ideally involving collaboration between family physicians, specialists and naturopathic physicians, along with allied practitioners, such as nutritionists, physiotherapists and counsellors.

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The backbone of integrative care is patient empowerment and education. The patient becomes an active participant in their care. Naturopathic physicians and other private health care physicians have the flexibility of devoting longer consults with their patients, providing the space and time for explanation, questions, discussion of various therapeutic options and shared decision-making for treatment. When patients understand the factors impacting their health and why, in addition to learning what can be done to improve their health, they are motivated to make change and more likely to commit to a plan aimed at achieving the end goal.

When is the best time to seek integrative care?

Prevention is much easier and preferable than treating disease! The best time to seek integrative care is before the disease manifests.

Whether you are extremely healthy, starting to experience a decline in your health, or are dealing with a chronic disease such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, diabetes or chronic pain, you need to take accountability for your health and seek out appropriate care. Even if you are healthy now, the reality is that many serious illnesses are “silent” until they progress to the point that symptoms become evident — cancer and cardiovascular disease are two classic examples of silent diseases. In my practice, I see a lot of young, healthy individuals diagnosed with cancer, even without a strong family history or major risk factors for cancer. The reality is we are never immune from developing cancer, no matter how “healthy” we may be.

Making healthy choices for diet and lifestyle will reduce the risk and lead to better treatment-related outcomes.

What should you look for when selecting a naturopathic physician for cancer treatment?

The Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians is a fantastic resource of naturopathic physicians offering oncologic care. Some naturopathic physicians have obtained further training in naturopathic oncology and completed a fellowship with the American Board of Naturopathic Oncology (FABNO).

FABNO naturopathic physicians follow an integrative, collaborative, patient-focused approach to cancer care, with the goals of improving quality of life during cancer treatments and beyond, reducing the side effects to cancer treatments, improving outcomes from cancer treatment, preventing recurrence, and maintaining or improving overall health of the patient. n

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HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Spring self-reflections PLANTING THE SEEDS OF CHANGE FOR MORE POSITIVITY IN YOUR LIFE

By Lynn Oldenburg

S

pring is the opportune time for self reflection and assessing the happiness and joy in our lives. We awaken from the winter with fresh eyes and a new perspective, enabling objectivity and compassion for ourselves and those around us. It is a time to reflect back on past challenges and review belief systems that may be outdated.

Time to re-evaluate Humans are meant to grow and evolve. It is in our nature to learn and understand who we are and what we we are meant to achieve while on this earth. I am not talking about a job; I am referring to activities that promote creativity, self empowerment and growth — basically anything that makes our heart sing.

Everything in our body is interconnected from the toes to the top of our head, including the emotional and physical state. When your emotional health is out of balance, it can directly impact your physical body with aches, pains and exhaustion.

Stepping into the self-reflective work The first step is to identify and recognize what you want to change. Assess experiences that may have had an uncomfortable outcome and be curious about it. Develop the inner witness that watches the experiences and your responses to them. It does not judge, nor comment and is a completely unbiased review of a situation. It allows you to reflect in a neutral manner to understand how you got from point A to point B. Now you can discern what you have outgrown and what is no longer serving you.

Getting rid of negative energy Harbouring negativity can spin you into excessive worry, fear and loneliness. It is closely related to stress and illness, and can attract more negative experiences into your life. Look inside to understand why negativity is pervading your psyche and environment. How do you feel about yourself, who do you surround yourself with and can you make changes that reflect more positivity?

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The inner critic or ego is the voice in your head that judges you and admonishes you for making mistakes.

You develop the ego at a very young age, and initially its development is required to keep you safe. However, it can eventually spiral out of control as we experience life’s ups and downs. Understanding that this is not your conscience nor your voice, and knowing that the words are not true, can help to break the incessant cycle of negative thoughts.

The key to transforming your life is to be honest with yourself and trust that you know what is best for you. If you make a mistake, let it go, knowing the next day is a new opportunity to shift. Planting these seeds will flower into new behaviours and experiences that can create a more fulfilling life. n Lynn Oldenburg is a Reiki master and a trained life coach.Her selfhealing and life transformation program can be practiced in clinic and at home. Find her at White Lotus Divine Healing in Port Moody.

5 ways to cultivate positive thoughts 1. Be kind to self and others. When we spend time on self care and feed our soul, we are at peace. When we are able to love the self, we can then love others and spread empathy.

2. Gratitude is a powerful healer! Use gratitude daily and with intention setting, to create the best outcome for the day ahead.

3. Exercise can boost immune function, clear your head and create serotonin, the happy hormone.

4. Journalling your thoughts daily helps you to recognize belief systems that may not be your own. Explore this fully and make any necessary changes.

5. Mindfulness is about living in the present moment, where there is no fear or worry.

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