0625-GHN - June - 2025

Gugu Mbatha-Raw on Refugee Resilience, Reunion, and THE ROLE WE ALL MUST PLAY

MOCIOIU

RAYE

A few years ago, in a quiet backyard in the Dutch countryside, actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw witnessed a reunion that was decades in the making, one in which she had a personal stake. That morning in 2022, a woman named Françoise—a mother, teacher, and refugee that Mbatha-Raw had met years prior—was finally embraced by the parents she’d believed to be dead for nearly 30 years.

For Mbatha-Raw, this moment captured the meaning of her work with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, but also one that felt deeply personal. In her years of work, she’s met countless people who have displayed unwavering courage in the face of often unrelenting hardships. They start and restart their lives, yet their empathy remains steadfast.

“The sound of children singing in Nakivale settlement in Uganda is a vivid moment I’ll never forget,” she recalled. “The music drew me to meet Françoise, a refugee from the DRC whose husband and children were murdered during the Rwandan genocide. Despite her trauma, she became a teacher running a women’s support group.

“The joy she brought to her work, from community women’s groups and a female football team, to the pride she took in showing me her vegetable garden, a piece of the earth, a sense of home—it was powerful.”

BEARING WITNESS TO STRENGTH

Since 2018, the British actor, known for critically acclaimed roles in Belle The Morning Show , and Loki , has worked alongside the UNHCR as a Goodwill Ambassador.

She’s travelled to some of the world’s most overlooked crisis zones, including Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In doing so, she has become an amplifier and an advocate for those forced to flee home.

“One misconception is that refugee camps are temporary,” she explained. “But many people live their whole lives there. They build schools, shops, and even stage fashion shows, as I saw in Nakivale. These are vibrant, resourceful communities. But they also face impossible choices like medicine or food, safety or dignity.”

For Mbatha-Raw, this work is also a way to honour her family’s own legacy of resilience.

“My father fled apartheid South Africa and had to leave his home and everything he knew, so the refugee experience is part of my family history,” she explained. “Every refugee story is different, but I think anyone who has moved country feels a sense of dislocation, that they've left part of themselves behind. I'm very aware of the privileges that I have, but I am also conscious of the challenges my father has faced. My South African cousin calls it an ‘ancestral

It’s part of why I feel that we all have a role to play in welcoming refugees and helping them to find a sense of belonging.”

Her advocacy has helped bring visibility to displacement crises that rarely make headlines, from gender-based violence to housing shortages—a few of the many challenges that come with resettlement.

“Resettlement isn’t an ending. It’s a new beginning, often full of new obstacles,” she noted.

THE ROLE WE PLAY

In our increasingly diverse communities, it’s not uncommon to hear stories from friends and neighbours that strike a similar chord of fleeing a place that was once home to begin again somewhere new. Like Mbatha-Raw, those who share these stories of resilience amid hardship contribute to a deeper understanding of the refugee crisis, which can often seem like a far-away problem.

“We often forget that refugees are not just statistics,” she said.

“They are parents, artists, teachers. They are people like you and me.”

What makes us remember? The power of a story. It’s why hearing the real stories from refugees leaves such a distinct impression in our memories, and why MbathaRaw’s work is all the more important. Listening to these stories matters, and making space for refugees to be heard makes all the difference in fostering a more connected and compassionate community, ultimately making it easier for refugees to begin again.

When Mbatha-Raw visited refugee shelters in the Democratic Republic of the Congo with UNHCR, she was interested in speaking with the people there to learn about their stories and amplify them.

“I remember seeing how many families were making tough choices between buying medicine for their elderly parents or food for their children,” she recalled.

“One woman, Cadette, had fled her village after it was violently attacked. She had seven children, was a carer for her husband, and had to support the rest of her family. I often wonder if she was able to fix the leaking walls of her home while still managing to find enough food for her family. Food and shelter are basic necessities we often take for granted, but for Cadette, meeting those needs came with constant sacrifice.”

UNHCR’s work goes beyond emergency relief—it’s also about long-term solutions like resettlement, inclusion, and education.

“Right now, with major cuts

to humanitarian aid, services for refugees, like education and healthcare, are under serious threat,” the actress explained.

“It’s important to remember that education helps refugees to build skills, support themselves, and give back to others.”

Giving refugees opportunities, she explained, whether through education, resettlement, or learning a skill, is essential.

“I know that for many women, having the opportunity to craft together with their hands, making practical objects or jewellery that they can sell is not only a healing communal practice, but also gives them a sense of purpose to be able to support their family.”

Our role, then, as global community members, is to support organizations like UHNCR in making these opportunities possible. On a smaller scale, MbathaRaw says that compassion can go a long way.

“Kindness is something the world desperately needs,” she said.

“I know from my own family that anyone can become a refugee at any time. No action is too small— whether that’s donating, hiring someone rebuilding their life, or simply listening to their story.”

Visit unhcr.ca to donate, volunteer, or learn more about how you can help displaced people rebuild their lives.

call,’ the impetus to help other people who face a similar sacrifice.

Starbright’s Partnerships Strengthen Kelowna Families

Starbright Children’s Development Centre has been making a significant impact in Kelowna, British Columbia, for nearly 60 years. The Centre provides early intervention services to children under school entry age who are facing developmental challenges, creating lasting change through its work with families. The Centre’s success is not only driven by its dedicated staff, but also by the essential partnerships it has cultivated within the community.

PART OF THE SERVICE

DELIVERY LANDSCAPE

Starbright works alongside a network of community partners, health organizations, and local stakeholders who offer specialized services for children with developmental needs. These partnerships play a vital role in referring children, supporting their families, and delivering the therapeutic services required for the children Starbright serves.

Notable provincial partners include BC Children’s Hospital, Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children, CanAssist, Down Syndrome Foundation, BC Early Hearing Program, and the BC Family Hearing Resource Society. Additionally, Starbright collaborates with local clinics, health centres, daycares, and preschools across the Okanagan.

Through its talented staff, Starbright offers a wide range of specialized services, including infant development, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, physical therapy, inclusive childcare, and counselling. Thanks to a generous donation from the Stober Foundation, Starbright recently hired a Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst to further support the families they serve.

CONNECTIONS WITH OTHER CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTRES

A valuable connection for Starbright is the B.C. Association for Child Development and Intervention (BCACDI), a province-wide organization of child development agencies. As a member, Starbright benefits

from shared best practices, learning opportunities, and advocacy for the importance of early intervention services.

“We work with child development centres throughout the province as part of our mandate,” says Dr. Noreen Simmons, Executive Director for the BC Family Hearing Resource Society, also a BCACDI member.

“Starbright is an agency that does great work for its community. The staff is exceptionally caring and collaborative, always finding the best ways to assist children with special needs.”

SHARING A FOCUS WITH LOCAL CHILDCARE PROVIDERS

Starbright’s collaborations with local childcare providers, such as daycares and preschools, are key to ensuring that children with developmental challenges are included and supported in these environments.

“I’ve been aware of Starbright’s work for 10 years,” says Karen Smiley, Owner of Smileykins

Childcare. “When a child at our daycare needs an assessment, we work with the parents to connect them with Starbright. The staff is always professional, caring, and expert in their approach.”

Jessie Davis, Owner of Knox Kids Co., also highlights the importance of Starbright in the community. “When we have children with developmental delays or autism, we call Starbright. They provide expertise and sometimes place one of their staff with us to deliver the needed support. Knowing we can access Starbright gives us peace of mind and confidence in caring for any child.”

PARTNERSHIPS WITH HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Starbright collaborates with various organizations in Central Okanagan to ensure children with developmental challenges receive the necessary care.

Interior Health is a long-time partner. “As a Speech Language Pathologist with Interior Health, I work closely with Starbright to

provide comprehensive care for children with speech and language needs,” says Deborah Saville. “We share referrals, collaborate on treatment plans, and conduct joint therapy sessions to provide coordinated care. This partnership allows us to address the full range of a child’s developmental needs.”

Meaghan Ross, a Coordinator with UBC Faculty of Medicine’s Southern Medical Program, shares, “Through our partnership with Starbright, our students gain unique learning opportunities, observing and participating in therapies provided at Starbright. Our students gain firsthand experience in speech therapy, physiotherapy, and developmental services, which equips them with a deeper understanding of working with children and families.”

“Families trust Starbright because it’s an essential resource,” Ross adds. “It provides not only specialized therapies but also a network of support for families, offering a safe and child-friendly environment where families can feel empowered and supported.”

COMMUNITY GIVING BACK

Starbright’s longstanding relationships have built a strong reputation within the community. “We have long-term relationships with local businesses that support us every year,” says Dr. Rhonda Nelson, Starbright’s Executive Director. “These organizations recognize the value of the work we do, and their support is invaluable.”

Examples include TD Bank staff who have made Starbright a regular stop for their Days of Caring, where they refresh various areas of the Centre. Earlier this year, they transformed the front landscaping of Starbright.

RBC staff also participates in Day of Caring events, one of which involved assembling bicycles donated to Starbright by Lake Country Cycle, which were then gifted to Starbright families.

The Kelowna Firefighters host an annual Secret Santa event, in which all active client names are put in a draw and those who are drawn receive Christmas gifts presented by “Santa and the Elves.”

Local community members Jason Picklyk and Mohini Singh have fundraised for Starbright since 2016, raising funds for essential developments such as a new playground, a shade sail, a wheelchair lift, and therapy equipment.

A SINGLE-MINDED FOCUS ON FAMILIES

“We know early intervention is key to helping children attain skills and meet developmental goals,” says Nelson. “We provide a vital service in Kelowna, and that’s our entire focus.”

A child can be referred to Starbright with the family’s consent by anyone, including a family member, pediatrician, family doctor, public health nurse, or childcare provider. No diagnosis is required.

Starbright is a charitable nonprofit organization providing therapy and program services to families with young children who have developmental needs. Learn more at starbrightokanagan.ca

The Village That Love Built: A Better Tent City

RAYE MOCIOIU

What happens when a convenience store owner, a city worker, a priest, a builder, an educator, and a philanthropist-entrepreneur unite over a shared goal to care for their community? They give new meaning to the phrase “it takes a village.”

On the surface, it looks like a cluster of tiny homes, but A Better Tent City is far more than that. It’s the result of what happens when a community steps up to care for its most vulnerable members. What started with tents in a vacant industrial building is now a thriving village where people can find dignity, hope, and a fresh start.

Behind this initiative are the inspiring stories of those who made it happen—and the residents who call it home.

A LITTLE KINDNESS

It all starts with Nadine Green, Site Coordinator, Jill-ofall-trades, and de-facto ‘Mom’ at A Better Tent City. Forty years ago, Nadine moved to Canada from Jamaica with her mother and stepfather. At 16 years old, she felt her life had been turned upside down. She moved out of her family home and spent years hiding the fact that she was homeless, searching for unlocked apartment lobbies to sleep in after a day of school and extracurricular activities.

After high school, she moved to Kitchener, which she had heard was a better place for unhoused people. By 2004, she was running her own convenience store down-

FROM TENTS TO HOMES

Just as Rome wasn’t built in a day, the path to creating A Better Tent City was a winding one.

"Supportive housing is not a straight line—you can't just take someone from being homeless to one day putting them in structured housing," said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. "There's a journey that needs to get them there."

When the initiative began, the goal was to create a pathway to employment and stable housing for these people. But what Nadine, Jeff, and Ron came to realize was that homelessness is rarely that simple—mental illness and drug addictions pose significant barriers for those who are unhoused.

Homelessness has long been an issue in Canada, but rates of unhoused people have risen since the advent of COVID-19. Canada faces one of the biggest gaps for developed countries between home prices and income levels, and in early 2024, a study from Equifax found that 50 per cent of Canadians are living paycheque to paycheque. Homelessness may feel like a faraway problem, but in reality, it’s much closer than we’d like to admit. Perhaps that’s why, in the midst of a global pandemic, the Kitchener-Waterloo community banded together to bring A Better Tent City to life.

For people experiencing

town and had earned a reputation for her generosity. She brought food home to struggling neighbours and offered a helping hand to those who needed it—even offering her store as a safe space to stay.

“My goal was to treat all of my customers with kindness and love regardless of their situation—so much so that I allowed unhoused people to start sleeping in my store at night,” she shared. “I knew everyone's name and most of their stories. One winter night, I saw people who had been in my store huddled outside trying to stay warm until morning. I couldn’t leave them like that, so I invited them back into my store to get warm. They had nowhere else to go.”

Word quickly spread, and soon, Nadine was feeding and sheltering tens of people every night. But it couldn’t last— in 2012, Nadine was evicted from her store. Unwilling to let vulnerable members of her community sleep on the streets, she began again in a new location.

“I even got rid of my apartment and built a bed in the back office of the store so I could supervise the scene and make sure I could always be open if someone needed shelter.”

In 2020, Nadine was evicted again. But this time, she had a better plan, thanks to Ron Doyle, a local business owner, and Jeff Willmer, former director of planning for the City of Kitchener.

The two presented Nadine with an idea for A Better Tent City, a community of tiny homes on Ron's underused industrial property. It was the beginning of an initiative that would change countless lives.

“There are so many people who tell us things like ‘I'd be dead right now if it weren't for Nadine.’ She gave them a chance.”

homelessness, a shelter with a place to safely lay their heads is already impactful. But adding a sense of community and family is what makes all the difference. Even so, Ron knew tents were not enough. He came across garden sheds that he believed would work as tiny homes with the right insulation. He purchased 12 cabins, and Father Toby Collins, a spirited local priest, called on his congregation to support the initiative and purchase additional units. They ended up with over 40 cabins, with volunteers installing the insulation for each unit.

A year and a half later, Ron passed away, and his industrial property was sold. Looking to both keep his legacy alive and continue providing this critical support to the community, A Better Tent City was searching for a new home. It was then that City of Kitchener and the local school board stepped in to offer additional land. Even now, the school board staff visit regularly, offering support through donations and personal understanding.

Alair Homes, a custom home building and renovation franchise in the Greater Toronto Area, was more than happy to be involved. As home builders, giving back to the unhoused was already entrenched in Alair’s core values. They coordinated the servicing and construction of the shared-use

buildings on the new site, including washrooms, showers, kitchen, and laundry services. They provided project management, obtained permits and approvals, and coordinated with designers and contractors to bring the new site to life.

Executive General Manager David Butler explained that their involvement was driven by their desire to make things better.

Working closely with Father Toby, who also provided landscaping services, Alair managed the installation, assembly, and supervision of a kitchen shelter that he had purchased.

But even with a stellar team working behind the scenes to bring this initiative to life, A Better Tent City truly came to life due to the tireless efforts of volunteers. These generous individuals, from all walks of life, provided tremendous support throughout the construction of the site and continue to be an important part of the initiative’s success, especially in the kitchen.

Lived experience makes a significant impact in initiatives like this one; several volunteers involved with A Better Tent City act from a place of personal understanding.

Kevin James Thomas, the founder of Big Jerk Smoke House, got involved to honour his father, who had long supported the homeless community.

Kevin and his mother provided hot, fresh meals for A Better Tent City, and Kevin continues to do so to this day.

Organizations like the Sanguen Health Centre, which stepped in with healthcare services tailored to residents’ unique challenges, have an employee base that comes from similar backgrounds and struggles. This mix of experiences is what makes them so effective in creating relationships built on trust and understanding—both critical in supporting such a vulnerable community.

A RIPPLE EFFECT

A project of this magnitude, the first of its kind in Canada, couldn’t be confined to the Kitchener-Waterloo area. Since opening its doors in 2020, A Better Tent City has inspired similar projects across the country.

While some skeptics question whether this model is sustainable, the founding members have been contacted by groups in other Ontario cities, such as Kingston, Peterborough, and Hamilton, that have been exploring replicating their model.

Nadine, for one, is not surprised. “We always knew it was going to work,” she said. “We currently have 42 homes and 50 residents. We are stable here. We are home.”

Like all communities, A Better Tent City is not without issues.

But importantly, the dedicated efforts of Nadine and all who provide support for the community ensure that these issues don’t interfere with the sense of home that has been carefully curated over the years.

"There are so many people who tell us things like 'I'd be dead right now if it weren't for Nadine,'" said Jeff. “She gave them a chance.”

Mayor Berry Vrbanovic says that compassion is the key to making this initiative more widespread.

"If you actually take the time to understand the stories of some of these individuals, you realize who some of them are connected to in the community," he explained. "Something in their life got them down this path. But the reality is that they are part of our community. They are mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles of people we know. The journey that got them here could happen to any one of us."

What began as a simple act of compassion has evolved into a national conversation about grassroots solutions to systemic problems. When communities band together, they can create something remarkable: a model of love that others are eager to replicate.

For those once on the margins of society, A Better Tent City is more than just a place to live—it’s a chance to heal, grow, and belong.

MAKING SPORT BETTER

Inspiring British Columbians to be physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy by leveraging the power of sport.

viaSport is Building a Stronger BC Through Sport

In British Columbia, there’s more to sport than physical fitness. Sport is a vital part of the province’s social fabric. Whether it’s kids playing soccer at the local park, athletes training for the podium, or fans cheering from the stands, sport unites communities, supports physical and mental well-being, and acts as a powerful force for positive change. And like in sport, teamwork is a crucial part of making that happen, which means each of us has a role to play, regardless of the game.

viaSport is a not-for-profit organization that has been leading the development and growth of amateur sport in BC since its creation in 2011. Supported by the provincial government, viaSport champions a vision where all British Columbians can participate in sport and have safe, inclusive, and welcoming experiences.

SPORT AS A FORCE

FOR GOOD

Sport has power: on top of being fun, it brings people together, supports reconciliation with Indigenous communities, and

advances diversity and inclusion. It brings out national pride, fostering community togetherness. Volunteers and participants benefit from the teamwork, collaboration, and social integration that sport brings out naturally. Sport contributes to a diversified economy, providing jobs and stimulating local businesses and tourism through community-based and high-performance sporting events, creating a sense of community pride.

Empowering communities

to support sport means more benefits for all. Many British Columbians, especially those from marginalized communities, would benefit from more opportunities to participate in sport. Removing barriers to entry makes sport more accessible for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.

viaSport helps leverage sport as a catalyst for social development and economic growth, especially for equity-deserving communities. Sport is a powerful tool for

healthier living, lifelong learning, community building, and, most importantly, fun! viaSport knows that with the right kind of support, like through age and stage-appropriate coach development, sport gets better.

STRENGTHENING BC’S

SPORT COMMUNITY

viaSport collaborates with their network of over 70 provincial, disability, and multi-sport organizations to develop an amateur sport system that prioritizes inclusion, noting that barriers to entry can ward off would-be participants. Their Designation Program ensures that these organizations maintain high standards in participation, coaching, officiating, excellence, and governance—four foundational pillars of effective sport delivery.

Importantly, viaSport understands that supporting Designated Sports to create programs isn’t enough—that’s why their approach includes aspects like sport development and coach education, so that athletes and coaches at all levels receive the training and mentorship they

need to succeed. To ensure that everyone feels respected and protected while they play, viaSport has created PlaySafebc.ca and leads other sport safety initiatives in BC. viaSport works across industries and sectors to help build capacity through partnerships and grant programs to set communities on a path to longterm growth.

And this approach has been working—since 2013, viaSport has trained over 21,000 coaches and engaged more than 100 partner organizations in collaboration for sport advancement. On top of that, they’ve secured $152 million in annual funding distributed to designated sport organizations. Inclusion? Check. Collaboration? Check. Economic and social impact? Double check. All that’s missing is you! Whether you're an athlete, coach, parent, or fan, there's a place for you in BC’s sports community, and viaSport is here to help you find it.

To learn more, get involved, or partner with us, visit viasport.ca/make-sport-better

Breathing New Life Into Fashion: VIFW Announces 2025 Theme

Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week (VIFW) is proud to announce the theme for its 2025 showcase: Air. A celebration of movement, spirit, breath, and transformation through design.

Taking place November 1922, 2025, VIFW returns with a renewed focus on creativity rooted in culture. Air invites designers, artists, and community members to explore the stories carried by wind and breath—those that connect us to land, ancestors, and the future.

“This theme is about honouring the invisible forces that shape us,” says Caroline Phelps, VIFW General Manager. “Air is the flow of life. It’s the breath of our ancestors. It’s the energy that moves us forward.”

Since its inception in 2017, VIFW has led Native fashion, becoming the first Indigenous Fashion Week globally—and it all stems from the brain of Joleen Mitton.

After a successful international modelling career working with Kenzo, Clinique, and Vivienne Westwood, Joleen felt a deep calling to reconnect with her Cree

heritage and uplift Indigenous talent in an industry that often overlooked them.

In 2017, she founded VIFW, the world’s first Indigenous Fashion Week, pioneering a space where Indigenous designers could showcase their art on their own terms. Her impact extends beyond fashion runways. She co-founded Supernaturals Modeling, the first Indigenous modelling agency, and launched mentorship programs that empower Indigenous youth to break barriers and thrive in creative industries.

Now, VIFW has showcased over 40 visionary designers, gathering an audience of fashion lovers and creating a name for itself as an international platform for Native fashion.

Art is one of the most powerful forces in the world. Aside from being a tool for self-expression, it’s also a driver for social change and a canvas for sharing stories. In the same way, fashion is more than fabric; it’s a medium for storytelling. And with the right execution, it becomes clear that fashion is not just an industry—it’s a movement.

Earlier this year, to further their

message of empowering art and Indigenous fashion, VIFW partnered with their U.S. counterpart, SWAIA Native Fashion Week, to continue bringing Indigenous designs to the forefront.

“Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week and SWAIA are coming together to unite Indigenous fashion from North and South, telling our stories through art, culture, and design,” explained Phelps. “Through this partnership, we celebrate the

revitalization of our traditions, the strength of our communities, and the power of fashion as a living expression of our identities.”

This collaboration is about more than showcasing designs— it’s about honouring ancestral knowledge, mentoring emerging talent, and creating a global stage for Indigenous fashion. By merging their platforms, VIFW and SNFW are giving Indigenous designers an opportunity to redefine narratives and establish new industry standards, challenging stereotypes at the same time.

VIFW continues to be a platform for Indigenous cultural revitalization, artistic excellence, and community connection. Through runway shows, workshops, markets, and mentorship, VIFW shines a spotlight on Indigenous voices while creating space for the next generation of creators and changemakers.

Learning Without Limits at St. Michaels University School

St. Michaels University School (SMUS) is an independent day (JK to Grade 12) and boarding (Grade 9 to 12) school in Victoria, B.C.

“We believe that education in a diverse and inclusive environment prepares students to thrive in the real world,” explained Eliot Anderson, director of senior school and deputy head of school at SMUS. “Being a school that welcomes students from all communities reflects the broad spectrum of perspectives, identities and experiences they will encounter beyond the classroom.”

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE

One-on-one academic and career advising is a cornerstone of personalized support at St. Michaels University School. Advisers work closely with students to help them identify their strengths and interests while guiding them toward future-focused pathways.

“When current parents talk about SMUS, they highlight the community of people their child gets to interact with daily, from current students to the staff and faculty to the wonderfully

connected alumni who are still engaging with the school regularly,” Anderson said.

SMUS has more than 60 clubs and councils where students can engage in activities that align with their passions and aspirations. Many of these clubs are career-focused, such as the Entrepreneurship Club, Business Club, Investment Club, Engineering Club, Med Talks and Coding/Hack Club, offering exposure to specific fields.

“We’re also excited to launch a new club called Future Focus, where students invite professionals

from various industries to share insights about their careers and work experiences,” shared Ruth McGhee, director of university counselling at SMUS. “We also connect students with mentors through our alumni network,” McGhee continued. “Students have the opportunity to engage with SMUS alumni or other professionals in fields of interest, learning directly from their experiences and gaining valuable networking skills.”

A key component of career exploration is a one-on-one interview every student conducts

with a professional in their field of interest. These interviews encourage students to ask thoughtful questions about industry trends, technological advancements and how the profession may evolve in the coming decade.

“By combining self-discovery, practical experience and mentorship, we aim to empower students to make informed decisions about their futures with confidence and purpose,” McGhee said.

LEADING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Looking ahead to life after graduation, leadership programming is becoming even more crucial in an increasingly complex world.

“When you engage in real, authentic leadership, you are developing a whole suite of human skills or soft skills, including collaboration, building relationships, resolving conflicts, active listening, seeking other perspectives and moving a group toward a goal,” explained Richard Primrose, senior school assistant director, student life and leadership, at St. Michaels University School.

“These are all leadership skills and

the human skills that AI will not be able to replace.”

At SMUS, student councils play a key role in developing leadership skills. The school has eight councils: athletics, arts, academics, interculture, well-being, outdoor, sustainability and service. Each council has two elected Grade 12 heads who plan and run meetings, organize and execute events, and more.

“It’s a microcosm of what leadership looks like in the real world,” says Primrose. “They’re getting a truly authentic snapshot of the leadership experience.”

A prime example of the school’s commitment to leadership and community is an annual fundraiser for Cops for Cancer, an initiative between first responders and the Canadian Cancer Society that raises money through cycling tours and other events. The arts and service councils take the lead in organizing an assembly, a concert and other fundraising opportunities. With initiatives like these, Primrose says, “It’s very much led and driven by students…with adults in the background.”

Learn more at smus.ca

The B.C. Society for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse (BCSMSSA) is one of the only therapy clinics operating in Canada that exists to serve maleidentifying survivors of sexual or domestic violence, a population that often goes unnoticed, unvoiced, and unsupported. The clinic offers therapy for survivors who are seeking to work through the often-burdenous weight of their trauma. This year, the agency celebrates 35 years of serving the community, which makes it the longest-standing men’s sexual trauma centre in the country.

Being a male survivor of sexual violence can be isolating and insulating. Importantly, our culture engages in dialogue about female survivors, and there have been various encouraging movements of support rallying around women who have had to endure and survive both domestic and sexual violence. The unfortunate reality, though, is that men do not have a similar sociocultural system of support. Current statistics show that about one in six men will experience some form of sexual violence in their

lifetime, violence which, left unprocessed, can have dramatic echoes in these survivors’ lives. The talons of trauma dig deep and often impact all facets of life. Clinics like the BCSMSSA exist to support men in healthy recovery, healthy masculinity, and healthy integration with a society that desperately needs men to have a space that understands the unique struggles of men. If you are a survivor who is grappling with the echoes of your trauma, you are not alone. Your body and mind have learned to manage and cope despite hardship and pain, and there are avenues available to work through the trauma and emerge from its shadow.

The BCSMSSA serves hundreds of clients, survivors who otherwise have very few alternative supports that focus on working with them through sexual or domestic trauma. In 2024, the agency had over 2,000 booked sessions; 2,000 hours of witnessing and processing the effects of sexualized violence on men. The agency is also one of the few in the country that facilitates

processing groups for men who endured childhood sexual violence, allowing them a space to connect with other survivors and help shed the feeling of isolation that so often saturates trauma. Because male sexual abuse and trauma are seldom discussed in contemporary discourse, the BCSMSSA also plays an educational role for other clinicians, nurses, doctors, police, first responders, Indigenous

communities, and more by facilitating workshops for other professionals who encounter male survivors in their work.

Overall, the agency serves as a hub of therapeutic, logistical, and educational support for so many men who suffer in silence.

Mason Shell, Executive Director for the BCSMSSA, highlights how working with male sexual or domestic trauma is difficult work, especially at a small

non-profit with limited funds and support. It takes trained master's or doctoral-level clinicians to engage in clinical work, and trained Victim Service workers to support clients through systems, funding, and disclosures. As with any non-profit, BCSMSSA relies on annual grant funding, clients pledging what they can for sessions, and donations from people in the community who understand the value in supporting men who often have nowhere else to turn.

Your support not only helps a rare agency like the BCSMSSA stay operational, it also supports the agency’s ability to fairly pay its team of clinicians and support. A man carrying the daunting weight of his past might never meet you as a donor, but the impact of any donation will be felt by him, his family, and his community. It could be a brother, a father, an uncle, a son unseen. Healing starts with help. Help can start with you.

Donate today at bc-malesurvivors.com/ funding/donations

7 Ways to Spread Kindness in Your Community

We hear it often—we’re living in uncertain, unprecedented times. And while that is true, it also means that acts of kindness can have a more meaningful impact and foster hope in the people around you.

In these uncertain times, small acts of hope can positively impact the lives of those around you. Whether it’s helping a neighbour with a small task, volunteering with a local organization or thanking someone with a handwritten note, small acts of hope can make a lasting difference.

“Hope is looking forward to a better future for the next generation. But hope is now, too,” Governor General Mary Simon said in her most recent letter to Canadians. “It is about what we do right here, right now. It is about a feeling of connection inside us that keeps us going.”

Here are some ways to promote hope and kindness in your community:

• Create a care package for newcomers. Join a volunteer organization that helps newcomers adjust to life in Canada. Create a care package

that includes a small plant, journal or list of free local mental health resources and peer groups for extra support.

• Organize a community cleanup. Gather a group of neighbours or colleagues to clean up a local park, green space or body of water. This not only helps protect the environment but also brings people together, promoting a sense of community and shared responsibility for nature.

• Host an inclusive community gathering. Organize a potluck dinner where everyone is encouraged to share dishes from their cultural traditions. Set up games and activities that foster kindness and celebrate diversity.

• Create a youth kindness project. Partner with local schools or community centres and organizations to develop projects that support youth, such as mentorship programs or cross-cultural workshops on topics that speak to youth, such as creating safe online spaces.

• Host a hope garden event. Organize a neighbourhood garden day where everyone can

come together to plant flowers, vegetables or trees and exchange gardening tips. Share seeds or plants with neighbours to encourage community bonding and environmental stewardship.

• Creating a ripple effect.

When was the last time you experienced a small act of hope or kindness? Chances are, it encouraged you to pay it forward and share the love with others. This is how one act

can create a chain reaction of positivity. For example, buying a coffee for the next person in line can set off a chain of free coffees that lifts everyone’s spirits.

• Build a community. Research shows that people who are more socially connected to others are happier, healthier, and live longer. Small acts of hope can create this sense of social connection and community and help those who may be

isolated or lonely feel like they matter and are part of a group.

“Now more than ever, we must build on our shared values as Canadians,” Simon shared. “We must encourage meaningful dialogue within our society and cultivate a renewed sense of pride and hope as we write the next chapters of our national history together.”

Celebrating 30 Years of Reclaiming Strength, Resilience and Joy Through Dragon Boat Paddling

“In any adventure, who people are can be determined not by what happens to them but by how they deal with it.”

—Rosalind MacPhee, Picasso’s Woman, A Breast Cancer Story

That quote, proudly printed on their team jerseys, speaks to the heart of Abreast In A Boat: proving that life after breast cancer can be vibrant, active, and full.

It all began in 1996 when a group of women aged 31 to 62 joined a groundbreaking study to challenge the belief that breast cancer survivors should avoid upper body exercise. Back then, doctors feared strenuous activity could lead to lymphedema, a painful and often debilitating condition. The plan was simple—train together and race in the Vancouver International Dragon Boat Festival, all while being monitored for symptoms.

But after crossing the finish line, they weren’t ready to hang up their paddles. The experience

purpose. They felt stronger, not just physically, but emotionally. What started as a one-time study evolved into a lasting mission: to show the world that breast cancer survivors could thrive.

From that single team, a global movement was born. Today, there are 380 breast cancer dragon boat teams in 40 countries. In 2025, Abreast In A Boat marks its 30th Anniversary, and to celebrate, they’re inviting the world to Vancouver.

Abreast In A Boat and Dragon Boat BC have partnered together to celebrate 30 years of breast cancer paddling at the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival, June 20–22, 2025. The Abreast In A Boat 30th Anniversary Breast Cancer Division will bring together 33 teams from around the world, including five Abreast In A Boat crews. It promises to be a weekend full of excitement—with a Welcome Reception, races, entertainment, artisan market, and the powerful Flower Ceremony, a moving

tribute to those lost to breast cancer. Admission is free, and all are welcome.

Whether on the water or off, Abreast In A Boat offers a safe, welcoming space for anyone who has had breast cancer. There are no tryouts, no experience required. Members range in age

from their 30s to their 80s and come from all walks of life. Some are watersports enthusiasts; others have never held a paddle. But all share a bond—and find friendship, fun, and empowerment through paddling together. You’ll spot them easily in their vibrant team jerseys and pink life

jackets, whether they are paddling or at community events. Their presence is a bold reminder of resilience, health, and hope. The celebration continues on November 15, 2025, with a special 30th Anniversary Charity Gala. Guests will enjoy dinner, entertainment, and a silent auction. It’s a chance to celebrate achievements and, more importantly, support Abreast In A Boat’s mission.

“We rely on our sponsors and donors to keep us on the water,” says Brandy Pieters, 2025 President and Co-Chair of the 30th Anniversary Committee.

“We are committed to minimizing participation costs to remove financial barriers and welcome more participants who have completed their cancer treatment. One in eight women will face breast cancer in their lifetime— we want to continue supporting them for years to come.”

To learn more, get involved, or donate, visit abreastinaboat.com

The power of positive, solution-based journalism.

HEALTH IS WEALTH

AGE-DEFYING WHOLE-

BODY SKINCARE

When we think of aging skin, we often picture seniors with delicate, paper-thin skin that bruises easily. But skin thinning and loss of resiliency begin much earlier, typically diminishing by around five per cent per decade. Given the ever-trending longevity movement, wellness enthusiasts and biohackers may be wise to consider how living beyond 95 might render the body's largest organ, our skin, vulnerable. At last, there is an easy-to-use, science-based alternative to expensive lotions and potions or invasive, costly body treatments that often deliver little or only temporary results.

Aqua Miraculorum, or “Water of Miracles,” is a patent-pending innovation from Canadian company Bloo Pharmapeutica. These single-use, dissolvable bath sachets combine the power of pharmaceutical-grade Methylene Blue with carefully selected natural ingredients, offering more than just cosmetic benefits. This is skincare designed to support the skin’s function as a vital organ, targeting resilience, hydration, and protection across the whole body.

METHYLENE BLUE: THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE SOAK

First synthesized in 1876 as a fabric dye, Methylene Blue quickly became recognized for its medicinal value. It has been used safely for decades in clinical settings. Today, researchers are rediscovering MB’s potential across multiple domains of human health, particularly for its mitochondrial support, antioxidant properties, and skin-regenerating effects.

Topical Methylene Blue has been shown to:

• Improve skin firmness, elasticity, and tone

• Boost hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss

• Decrease oxidative stress at the cellular level

• Promote the proliferation of healthy skin cells

In studies published by respected institutions such as the University of Maryland and Nature, MB demonstrated the ability to rejuvenate skin cells and counteract visible signs of aging. It enhances mitochondrial efficiency while reducing damage from free radicals, which are known contributors to skin aging and disease. Not all MB is created equal. For

human use, only pharmaceutical-grade, lab-tested MB should be used. Bloo Pharmapeutica sources only high-purity MB from North American laboratories to ensure maximum safety and efficacy.

AN ECO-CONSCIOUS, SENSORIAL EXPERIENCE

Aqua Miraculorum is formulated to fit seamlessly into a modern wellness lifestyle. Each sachet is designed for a standard bathtub and dissolves completely in warm water, releasing its restorative blend of ingredients without leaving behind residue or packaging waste.

The bath aspect of the experience is essential, as the product name, Latin for “Water of Miracles,” evokes the ancient tradition of baths in Roman culture, which were places of hygiene, daily healing, renewal, and vitality. Aqua Miraculorum brings that philosophy into the modern home, transforming the act of bathing into a full-body act of self-care.

Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, and synthetic fragrances, the formulation is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and autoimmune-prone skin. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and environmentally friendly.

TODAY'S SCIENCE-BASED METHYLENE BLUE BATH FOR DEFYING THE SIGNS OF AGING SKIN

The early reception to Aqua Miraculorum has been overwhelmingly positive. Users across a wide range of ages—from those managing the visible effects of aging to younger biohackers focused on prevention—report noticeable improvements in skin resilience, softness, and overall tone.

For those living with sensitive skin for almost any reason, the gentle and practical nature of the formulation is a welcome alternative to some other harsh topical treatments. Customers often describe the product as restorative and relaxing, making it ideal for bedtime or weekly rejuvenation routines.

Professional naturopathic practitioners have also begun recommending the product as part of whole-body recovery protocols-not just for aesthetic benefits, but also to support the body's ability to naturally heal itself.

CRAFTED IN CANADA, AVAILABLE ACROSS NORTH AMERICA

Bloo Pharmapeutica, headquartered in Vancouver and manufacturing on Vancouver Island, takes a vertically integrated approach to product development. From formulation to

packaging, everything is managed in-house to ensure consistency and quality control. Natural ingredients are sourced locally, and MB is sourced from certified North American suppliers.

The product is offered in packs of 10 sachets, available through leading naturopathic clinics and wellness retailers, and online via Amazon (Canada, U.S., and Mexico). Wholesale orders are handled directly through the Vancouver Island facility. Bloo Pharmapeutica is also a proud Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) member and regularly showcases new innovations at CHFA NOW trade shows in Vancouver and Toronto.

The skin is your body’s largest organ and one of its first lines of defence. As we live longer, it's no longer enough to care only for our appearance—we must also care for skin function, integrity, and strength. If health is wealth, then investing in your skin is one of the most important choices you can make. Aqua Miraculorum provides a modern, science-based solution that fits into everyday life, because your skin shouldn’t just survive the years; it should thrive through them.

EASY TO USE, WHOLE BODY DISSOLVABLE BATH SACHETS.

EXPERIENCE IMPROVED SKIN ELASTICITY, RESILIENCY, TONE, AND HYDRATION WHILE RESTORING YOUTHFUL APPEARANCE.

Reviving Black Presence in Strathcona

Learn more about Hogan’s Alley Society and make a donation at hogansalleysociety.org/donate

Hogan’s Alley Society is Reclaiming Roots and Restoring Community

Hogan’s Alley was once the home of Vancouver’s first Black neighbourhood. Until the 1970s, it was a flourishing cultural hub. When urban renewal and the construction of the Georgia and Dunsmuir viaducts demolished the community, that legacy was lost—but it wasn’t forgotten.

Today, the Hogan’s Alley Society (HAS), a Black-led nonprofit, honours the memory of Hogan’s Alley, reclaiming a physical space that was unjustly erased while building a future that envisions housing justice and cultural belonging. Through culturally informed programming, housing support, and community-driven development, HAS works to create inclusive spaces where people of African descent can thrive. It’s a holistic process that preserves history so that, as a collective, we can shape a better future.

BUILDING A BLACKAFFIRMING FUTURE

So, how do you reclaim the legacy of a place that’s been erased? You start by revitalizing the very place where history was made.

HAS has big plans for the future of Hogan’s Alley, and they’re making sure that no community member will be left behind.

Plans for the site include a Black Cultural Centre that will serve as a gathering place for the Lower Mainland, affordable housing that prioritizes Black and Indigenous residents, including those at risk of homelessness, and childcare and social enterprise spaces designed to uplift Black families and entrepreneurs.

This incredible reclamation is supported through the creation of the Hogan’s Alley Community Land Trust, a

non-profit model that ensures long-term affordability and community control. Through a 2022 Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Vancouver, the land trust will resist displacement and gentrification while restoring the legacy of Vancouver’s Black community in Strathcona.

A HOME AND A HAVEN HAS’s impact goes far beyond bricks and mortar. Its Community Care Program blends emergency housing support with cultural revitalization. From eviction prevention and housing advocacy

to African diasporic cultural programming and elder engagement, the program addresses the mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of the community.

Similarly, Nora Hendrix Place, a 52-unit modular housing project named after Black community matriarch Nora Hendrix, provides safe, secure, and dignified housing for Black and Indigenous people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.

As of June 2024, HAS assumed full operations of Nora Hendrix Place, further expanding its leadership in culturally informed housing and restoring

Black presence on the Hogan’s Alley block.

COLLECTIVE ACTION FOR A SHARED FUTURE HAS is a leading policy advocacy voice grounded in research and lived experience. The Hogan’s Alley Housing Solutions Lab contributes innovative, equity-focused ideas to Canada’s National Housing Strategy. The Society’s research, including its COVID-19 Vaccine Intentions Survey, focuses on the urgent need for accessible health and safety information to better serve Black communities in healthcare, housing, and beyond. From collaborating with Indigenous nations and Downtown Eastside neighbours to engaging Black artists, educators, and business owners, HAS is building a powerful coalition for change. As it shapes the future of Hogan’s Alley, the Society invites individuals, institutions, and allies to join in restoring dignity, access, and joy to Black lives.

It takes a village, and that village includes us all. Learn more at hogansalleysociety.org

Health on Wheels: Sanguen Healthcare is Changing Lives

Healthcare isn’t always easily accessible, especially for individuals without stable housing or those navigating complex health challenges. Sanguen Health Centre, a community-based nonprofit healthcare organization, is changing that.

Sanguen, with a mission of harm reduction and education, has been serving individuals navigating precarious living situations in the Guelph-Wellington and Kitchener-Waterloo regions. Since its launch in 2008, Sanguen has received thousands of visits, each marking an instance of compassionate care, harm reduction, and, in many cases, lives saved.

FROM HOSPITAL HALLS TO COMMUNITY STREETS

In the early 2000s, Dr. Chris Steingart was working as an infectious disease physician at Grand River Hospital. Noticing a troubling rise in hepatitis C cases among the homeless community, Dr. Steingart saw the urgent need for a healthcare model that prioritized prevention and treatment for those at risk.

His vision led to the launch of Sanguen Health Centre, but this was only the first step. Originally established as a hepatitis C clinic, Dr. Steingart quickly realized that gaining the trust of a community required more than opening doors, and that their needs went beyond treatment.

For many individuals, traditional healthcare feels out of reach, whether because of mistrust, stigma, or systemic barriers. Sanguen tackled this challenge head-on by adapting their process to meet people where they are—both literally and figuratively.

In 2015, they launched a Community Health Van that makes several weekly stops throughout the region. This fully equipped van, staffed with an interdisciplinary team, connects community members with harm reduction supplies and also provides support such as naloxone training and distribution, food, clothing, hygiene items, nursing, peer, and social support.

Following the successful launch of the Community Health Van, Sanguen received some funding through Telus to launch a clinic

on wheels: The Primary Care Bus. Staffed with a Nurse Practitioner, a Registered Nurse, and two Social Support Workers, the bus offers low-barrier health care to those who are precariously housed or unhoused. The bus is supported by Infectious Disease Physician Dr. Steingart, who offers hepatitis C treatment right off the bus.

At the core of Sanguen’s work is harm reduction—a compassionate and practical approach to drug use that prioritizes safety over judgment. By distributing unused needles, offering overdose prevention training, and teaching people how to use naloxone, they’re equipping community members, shelter workers, and even teens with the tools they need to understand drug use, prevent overdoses, and support those in crisis.

By consistently showing up, Sanguen proves to marginalized communities that someone cares, creating a bridge to healthcare and hope.

A LIFELINE FOR A GROWING CRISIS

Since 2021, the number of people experiencing homelessness has

doubled, which makes the need for organizations like Sanguen all the more critical.

Sanguen believes that people, regardless of circumstance, deserve to be treated with respect and to have access to health and social services. Everyone in our community, whether they use drugs or not, deserves to be healthy and safe. Their outreach team brings harm reduction supplies, medical care, and education to where it is needed. In partnership with A Better Tent City, Sanguen provides access to naloxone training, safer substance use education, and testing for hepatitis C, HIV,

and syphilis—all delivered with a focus on dignity and respect. At A Better Tent City, Sanguen also provides mental health support to people in the community. By embedding itself within this community, Sanguen ensures that residents have the tools and support they need to make informed choices about their health and safety

Sanguen's outreach team works tirelessly to build relationships, listen to individual needs, and connect people with vital services. In all that they do, their mission is to create pathways to a healthier and more inclusive community.

The Race for a Cure is On — But Not Every Kid Is At The Starting Line

DAVID PORTE, FOUNDER, CASSIE + FRIENDS SOCIETY

When my daughter was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), an incurable autoimmune disease, at just 22 months, I didn’t know where to turn. So I started running. I entered a charity race to raise

money for a cure, and to try and outrun the fear of what her future might hold. At the time, I didn’t even know kids could get arthritis. Fast forward 18 years, and we’ve come a long way, but heartbreakingly, most people still don’t know. A recent Ipsos poll shows that only one in five Canadians are aware

that arthritis can affect children.

But Juvenile Arthritis is real. It’s painful. It can cause blindness, disability, and lifelong mental health challenges. And for Cassie and 25,000 other kids growing up with this disease in Canada, especially those from underserved and remote communities, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

That first run marked the beginning of Cassie + Friends— Canada’s only charity 100 per cent dedicated to supporting children and families affected by Juvenile Arthritis and other childhood rheumatic diseases, now with 14 run/walk events across Canada. What started as a group of parents has grown into a national movement connecting thousands of families each year to education, mentorship, support and cuttingedge research. And now, for the first time, the race toward a cure is picking up speed. Innovative treatments. Big data. Personalized medicine. And world-leading researchers based right here in Canada are breaking new ground and moving faster than ever toward

better outcomes and, one day, a cure. But there’s a gap—a dangerous one.

Not all families know what symptoms to watch for. Not every child sees a specialist in time, or at all. Not every treatment reaches the kids who need it most. Without support, without awareness, without equity, too many kids are being left behind.

That’s why Cassie + Friends is here. We’re not just cheering from the sidelines but building the track. We’re ensuring families are seen and supported from Day One. We’re bringing the voices and needs of patients and parents into the lab. We’re funding the tools and partnerships that turn scientific progress into real-world impact.

And we need your help to go further. Cassie, now in her second year of university, continues to face difficult days with her arthritis. Her resilience inspires me, but so does the knowledge that so many other kids are still waiting for answers, care, and a cure.

Half Marathon & 5 km Charity Challenge. I’ll be joined by over 150 families, healthcare, and corporate champions like Nicola Wealth, Westland Insurance and Trillium Projects—all running to raise awareness and support for kids who are too often invisible in the healthcare system. The race of innovation is well underway. But unless we make sure every child has a chance to get to the starting line and the support to cross the finish line, we won’t have won.

So please: run with us. Donate. Share our story. Help us spread the word that #KidsCantWait. Join our team at cassieandfriends.ca/run Donate at cassieandfriends.ca/donate

Learn more at cassieandfriends.ca/kidscantwait

If you believe kids deserve to grow up pain-free, active, and confident in their future, join

© IMAGES COURTESY OF HOGAN'S

Homegrown Help for Strata Councils Across BC

When you serve on your strata council, you make important decisions impacting your entire community. It’s a difficult position to be in, but the way to make it easier is simple—a partnership with a trusted and experienced strata management company.

Beyond that, you want a homegrown management partner. One that understands the nuances of your strata corporation and the neighbourhood it’s located in, and that, yes, neighbourhood is spelled correctly with a u. A partner that understands what it means to be Canadian.

When you choose to work with FirstService Residential, you get just that.

Our roots are deeply Canadian, as we are owned and operated by FirstService Corporation, a proudly Canadian-founded company.

LOCAL SUPPORT FOR YOUR STRATA MANAGER

Our strata managers are supported by a regional director, vice president, president, and administrative and accounting teams local to the Greater Vancouver Area. These professionals provide strategic guidance and handle the administrative needs of our managers.

Our Resident Support Services (RSS) provides additional support to our managers. Working behind the scenes, the RSS team works to answer the residents’ common

inquiries about day-to-day strata living and removes the time-consuming task of responding to resident questions from the strata manager, which allows them to focus on essential council-led tasks and initiatives. Additionally, many of our associates are actively involved in the strata industry, attending important industry events and holding positions on association boards, including CCI Vancouver. This allows us to deepen our understanding of what is taking place in the industry, see emerging trends, and help our councils with community improvements that will help maintain property values and remain a top choice when people are looking for a desirable place to call home.

KEEPING AN EAGLE EYE ON LOCAL LEGISLATION

Legislation changes that will impact a strata corporation can happen in the blink of an eye. When you work with us, you can rest assured you’re partnered with a management company that keeps up with all legislative changes in British Columbia.

When this happens, we are quick to communicate clearly to our councils that outline the changes and what they mean for the community. We then assist our councils in navigating those changes so they can easily reach a place of compliance.

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR STRATA COUNCIL MEMBERS

For a strata corporation to truly thrive, it needs a strong, knowledgeable council. One who feels empowered to make decisions with confidence. To best accomplish this, we believe it goes beyond the standard management company guidance and includes ongoing education for council members.

That’s why we host regular educational webinars on topics ranging from council 101, budget planning, insurance market trends, and planning for EV charging in your community. These educational opportunities allow us and other industry experts to share our depth of knowledge and add additional tools to the tool belts of our councils, setting them up for success.

GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Being genuinely helpful is part of what it means to be Canadian. As a country, we are always ready to support each other in times of need in any way we can. As part of our social purpose initiative, we put tremendous effort into supporting local charities and causes that give back to our shared community.

Our annual Canuck Place Children’s

Hospice Campaign and our partnership with the British Columbia Institute of Technology on multiple scholarships are just a snapshot of the ways we give back to our community every year. To date, our fundraising has brought in over $1 million to support Canuck Place, WELCOME TO LIFE, SIMPLIFIED

“We take great pride in being the trusted management partner to over 700 strata corporations throughout British Columbia,” said Chris Churchill, President of FirstService Residential BC. “We understand that the pace of life in downtown Vancouver is different than Kelowna and that the expectations of the councils in strata communities in these places differ. The management solutions need to be tailored to suit them. We understand that because we don’t just serve these towns, cities, and communities, we live in them too. So let us look after the day-to-day operations of your strata so you can relax and enjoy all that your strata community and surrounding neighbourhood has to offer.” Don’t be surprised if you see a familiar FirstService Residential face at your community ice rink, park, farmer’s market or dining at a local hot spot, because we are your neighbours.

LUKE 15 HOUSE

A Christ-centred home of healing for men with addictions

Learn more at Luke15house.org

A Safe Haven for Recovery and Renewal in Surrey, BC

Every day offers a new chance for hope in Surrey, B.C., for a group of 25 men taking brave steps toward recovery. They’re among the fortunate few who have found space at Luke 15 House, one of the most sought-after recovery centres in the province.

Founded in 1992, Luke 15 House is a registered non-profit that provides holistic support to men living with addiction. Its programming is rooted in care for the whole person, addressing social, emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual needs. The name comes from the 15th chapter of The Gospel of Luke, where stories are told of the “lost” who can be “found.” The organization creates a path to stability, purpose, and community for those who have long felt disconnected from all three.

At its core, Luke 15 House believes in each man’s potential to reclaim his life and take responsibility for his future. The team embraces core values of Christ-centredness, compassion, honesty, integrity, respect, stewardship, and team spirit—principles that guide the day-to-day work and shape the atmosphere of the house.

Set on a quiet residential street, the home includes space for 25 residents and common areas for meals, workshops, peer connection, and counselling. A commercial kitchen anchors the space, where nutritious meals are prepared daily, reinforcing the importance of care and consistency.

Residents often arrive carrying years of trauma, loss, and instability. Some have histories of substance use, incarceration, or homelessness. Others live with mental health challenges such as depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Many have been separated from their families or endured childhoods marked by neglect, abandonment, or abuse. The healing journey begins with being welcomed into a safe and supportive environment that offers structure, dignity, and hope.

“I came into Luke 15 House broken, drug addicted and had zero hope for the future. Today, I am able to love myself and even restore my relationship with my family. Day by day, life gets better, and I am grateful for having a new life.”

—Resident Testimonial

Services include 12-step programs, life skills, and inner healing. Residents work through the lessons with prayer, coaching, counselling, and mentorship. They are taught skills, values, and, most importantly, how to make good life choices. Luke 15 restores men to dignity, reunites families, prepares men for employment, transitions men to the community, and creates an overall safer society.

Unfortunately, demand far

exceeds capacity. According to Executive Director Nigel Vincent, the centre must turn away at least 10 men daily who are in urgent need of support. Even for those who complete the program, the transition to independent living is often hindered by a shortage of second-stage housing and community reintegration supports.

Nigel’s vision is to open a second recovery home in

North Surrey, offering men a safe next step in their journey. But like many grassroots initiatives, the dream faces hurdles: zoning approvals, funding gaps, and lengthy delays in system response. Now, more than ever, Luke 15 House needs community support. Whether through volunteering, donating, or advocating for increased recovery resources in Metro Vancouver, your support can help extend the life-changing impact of this vital program.

Let your local authorities know that you support the mission of Luke 15 House and want to see the expansion of their services in Metro Vancouver.

Feeling lost? We are here to help. Get help: Luke15house.org/services

Support men struggling with addiction: Luke15house.org/donate

Join our community: facebook.com/ luke15housesurrey

Project People Hub: Revolutionizing Childcare, One Family at a Time

DAN KALIVODA

In today’s rapidly shifting world, access to high-quality childcare has become a growing challenge for families, particularly in metro areas like Vancouver, where waitlists for traditional childcare can stretch up to three years. Families are increasingly caught in a cycle of limited options, high costs, and inconsistent quality, especially in home-based settings that often lack structure. At Project People Hub, we are here to change that.

Founded out of a deep-rooted desire to support families, Project People Hub delivers accessible, high-quality childcare through a uniquely modern and mobile approach. Our mission is clear: to put children and their families at the centre of care by offering flexible, engaging programs grounded in proven educational principles.

Our services are built around community needs. We provide

the heart of our model is Child Care Connect, an innovative service that brings trained Early Childhood Educators directly to families—at home, at a workplace, or during special events. Rather than relying on costly, traditional childcare centres, we bring the care to where families already are. This mobile solution increases access and ensures that child development remains at the forefront of convenience.

The foundation of our care philosophy is play—specifically, play guided by emergent curriculum and project-based learning. This child-centred approach is more than just a methodology; it’s a philosophy. We listen to each child’s unique interests, personality, and needs, helping them discover who they are while building essential life skills. Through a scaffolding approach, we support children in a way that is both structured and fluid, allowing them to explore freely, grow deeply,

on various roles—from district coordinator to community board member—always with the same purpose: to nurture environments where children thrive. Project People Hub is the culmination of that journey. It's a space where care meets creativity, structure meets flexibility, and families meet support they can count on.

But we can’t do it alone.

Join us in bringing this vision to life. Whether you’re a parent, a business leader committed to family-friendly workplaces, or a community advocate shaping the next generation, Project People Hub welcomes your involvement. From sharing our mission to offering support and exploring partnerships; your role matters. Together, we can create the spaces every child needs to thrive— where they are free to grow, play, and truly be seen.

Join us in transforming

Diving into Action: Clean Harbours Are Fighting Ocean Pollution in Newfoundland

MOCIOIU

RAYE

After 21 years diving the harbours and bays of Newfoundland as a sea urchin harvester, Shawn Bath had seen enough—enough fridges, tires, ropes, and fishing nets littering the ocean floor. Frustrated and driven to make a change, he launched the Clean Harbours Initiative in 2018 to combat the underwater pollution choking his home province’s coastal waters.

“I just figured the government was going to get on board once they saw the problem,” Shawn recalled. “I never thought it’d all fall on my shoulders.”

As a commercial diver, he harvested sea urchins for food, often from surfaces littered with old stoves, tangled fishing nets, and rusting appliances. But the turning

point came when he realized no one else was coming to fix it.

“I thought, maybe the person who needs to start this is me.”

So he did. With nothing more than a wetsuit, truck, and some rope, Shawn began hauling debris from the sea—alone. In his first year, he swam solo with tires tied to ropes, dragging them ashore, sometimes towing up to 20 at a time. Slowly, people took notice; divers joined, volunteers stepped up, and donations began to trickle in.

THE DIVING POINT

Shawn quickly proved that this problem was real and that he was doing much more than just picking up ocean garbage. In fact, he was removing thousands of pounds of debris, including

ghost nets that had silently snared marine life for decades.

But his efforts struck a nerve, particularly within the fishing industry. “The bulk of what we bring up is old fishing gear,” Shawn said. “Some people don’t want attention drawn to it because they fear more regulations.”

Shawn doesn’t place blame on the industry as a whole.

“Sixty percent of fishers are doing the right thing,” he emphasized. “But bad apples exist in every group.”

Lost gear is often an unfortunate byproduct of storms or strong tides—but in some cases, it’s dumped intentionally when it reaches the end of its lifespan. But this is a serious issue—Shawn has recovered nets that are 40

years old yet still strong enough to entangle whales, seals, and fish.

“We’ve seen whales drown in gear that was never recovered,” he explained. “People wonder where the whales are going—well, they’re going to the bottom.”

With clearer waters in winter, they dive year-round, using boats and surface teams to remove as much as possible before it breaks down into microplastics.

THE DEEP-SEA PROBLEM

Despite limited funding, Clean Harbours continues to push forward, powered by volunteers, small donations, and sheer determination. People from all over Canada—and even as far as Australia—have contributed to help fuel this mission.

“We say: if you can’t clean a beach yourself, let us be your fins in the water,” Shawn said. “A donation for fuel or gear repair can turn into thousands of pounds of debris removed in your name.”

Shawn envisions a future where Clean Harbours operates daily and year-round, with multiple crews tackling pollution along the entire coast of Newfoundland.

“Newfoundland could be the first to take this seriously on a large scale,” he explained. “Imagine the impact. Imagine the tourism, the environmental leadership. We can show the world what it looks like to protect our oceans. One person with a love for the ocean can make a difference. But imagine what we could do with a team, some real funding, and the world watching.”

Hooked on Tradition: How Ches’s Famous Fish & Chips

RAYE MOCIOIU

There’s a saying in Newfoundland: come for the scenery, stay for the people—and if you're lucky, stay for the fish and chips. And if it’s the best fish and chips you’re after, chances are you’ll end up at Ches’s Famous Fish & Chips, a local legend that’s been serving golden battered cod and fresh-cut fries since 1951.

A ONE-MAN OPERATION

“My dad started it all in 1951,” shared Kathy, the current coowner who now helps lead the multi-location business. “He got a small loan from both sets of parents to open the restaurant, and started catching fish out of St. John’s Harbour every morning.”

Those early days were long and rugged, Kathy explained. After hauling in his daily catch, Ches would clean the fish himself, sell what he didn’t need along the coves off Water Street, and then open the restaurant for lunch. He’d work until midnight

Became a Newfoundland Institution

some nights, sleep for a few hours, and be back on the water by daybreak. From the start, what made Ches’s special was its commitment to freshness and quality. “It had to be fresh—always,” Kathy said. “Fresh chips, fresh batter, fresh fish. That’s what Dad believed in.” While today's operations rely on frozen stock during the winter months, quality remains a top priority. “We have someone who freezes the fish for us so it’s consistent. You start with good ingredients, you end up with a good product.”

A RECIPE REFINED BY TIME (AND LOVE)

In Newfoundland, fish is cod. But, during the cod moratorium, the family had to experiment with different species in the restaurant. But it's the secret ingredient that makes all the difference.

“Anybody who asks for our secret, I tell them: it’s the love our cooks put into it,” Kathy shared. And it shows.

In Newfoundland, restaurants double as gathering places for storytelling and community.

“We’ve always been communityoriented,” explained Kathy. “We

donate to fundraisers, help out where we can. We do an annual fundraiser for the Candlelighters Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, which supports families with children going through cancer.”

Their annual fundraiser for the Newfoundland branch of Candlelighters Canada raises money for Camp Delight, a program for kids with cancer and their siblings that Ches's has been supporting for years. Community spirit shows in grand gestures and day-today experiences, and Ches’s is

known for both.

“We’ve got our regulars, people who’ve been coming for decades. And our staff? Some of them have been with us 20, 30 years. They’re like family. Our customers become family, too.”

COME FROM AWAY, STAY FOR SUPPER

Built for and beloved by its community, Ches’s is, in many ways, a reflection of the Newfoundland spirit: welcoming, hardworking, and full of heart.

“You could meet someone at a bar and be invited to their house for supper the next day. That’s just how it is here,” Kathy explained. “The other day, we had a local guy and a visitor from Ireland who’d just met, and that same day, the Newfoundlander was showing him around the city. That’s the spirit of this place.”

So is it that spirit, the feeling of home, or the fish and chips that keeps people coming back? Kathy echoes the locals when she says that it’s a little bit of all three.

ALLIE MURRAY

For those who live along the coastal waters of Canada’s Newfoundland and Labrador, spotting a whale or other marine life trapped in fishing nets or stranded on the shoreline is more common than you’d think. And, when encountering a stuck animal, most people don’t know what to do—either putting themselves at risk by trying to free the animal themselves or simply leaving the animal in distress. But one local organization is striving to change this.

Getting their start at Memorial University in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, in the '80s, Wayne Ledwell and Julie Huntington didn’t set out to study whales. At first, they wanted to help fishermen who would get a whale caught in their nets and didn’t know what to do with it—Wayne, who came from a fishing community, and Julie, who had vast knowledge in fishing nets, thought their expertise could be beneficial. Their journey with marine life rescue transitioned from the university to the Canadian Coast Guard, and then in 2001, Julie and Wayne took the initiative themselves, and Whale Release and Strandings was born.

“We’ve been to every community in Newfoundland disentangling whales and many in Labrador, and we’ve been doing it much the same as when we started

in the '80s,” Julie explained. “We use tools that were developed in the '80s and have changed shape over the years and we find them very successful.”

Having completed thousands of successful disentanglements across the province in the last 30 years, Julie and Wayne have become experts in the field—striving to educate both the public and fishermen about what to do when they encounter a trapped animal.

“Every entanglement is different,” Julie said. “And that’s the problem with people who aren’t officially involved in disentanglement and they want to be helpful. They’ll cut something and they don’t know that they’ve left all of this gear on the whale.”

The most important thing, Julie noted, is to call them as soon as possible. Once they receive a call about an animal in distress, they will ask some

questions about the nature of the entrapment while they prepare to make the trek to wherever the animal is and begin the rescue.

If you encounter an entangled or stranded whale, Julie offers four helpful tips:

• Remember, these are wild animals, and to use caution around them

Do not try to disentangle the whale yourself

• Do not attempt to move large whales

• If possible, take photos of the animal and include an object in the photo for scale to help determine the size of the animal

In addition to their rescue work, Whale Release and Strandings is involved in research projects where they take samples from stranded animals to send back to the Marine Mammal Section of Fisheries and Oceans Canada to better understand the wildlife in the ocean. Similarly, they do educational work in the community by visiting coastal schools to educate youth about marine life, the importance of taking care of our oceans, and to encourage them to connect with the outdoors.

These educational efforts work to not only raise awareness, but also foster a deep sense of responsibility and connection between people and the environment. By engaging with the community, Whale Release and Strandings encourages a focus on a more balanced approach to interacting with nature. This balance, as Julie emphasized, is key to preserving marine life while still allowing for sustainable practices.

“It’s important to learn about the ocean and our whole environmental connectivity,” Julie shared. “We can still fish, but we can also make sure that the environment is safe for the animals in the ocean.”

© IMAGES COURTESY OF CLEAN HARBOURS INITIATIVE

© COURTESY OF WHALE RELEASE AND STRANDINGS

Big Jerk’s Recipe for Change: Food, Family, and Community

“Fed people make for happy people, and happy people make for productive people,” said Big Jerk founder Kevin James Thomas. This philosophy doesn’t just guide his kitchen; it drives his commitment to giving back to the Kitchener-Waterloo community.

For over four decades, the Thomas family has been serving up Caribbean-Canadian cuisine in the Kitchener-Waterloo region. Familyowned and operated, locals share that the food speaks for itself—but serving authentic Caribbean cuisine is not the only family legacy that Thomas upholds.

For Kevin, serving up authentic Caribbean cuisine is about more than great food—it’s about creating connections, fostering belonging, and honouring the legacy of his father, James Nicholas.

Thomas’ father was a trailblazer in the local food scene. In the early 80s, Kitchener-Waterloo welcomed its first and only Jamaican/Canadian club, the Highlight Club, tucked away above OW Sports on King Street. This hidden gem was a weekend hotspot where locals could get a taste of home through dishes like Jamaican patties, jerk chicken, curry goat, and oxtail. This downtown staple was beloved, not just for its flavourful dishes, but for Nicholas’ unparalleled generosity. A pillar of the community and dedicated to helping those in need, his motto was, “Come back and pay when you can.” While some never returned, many did—paying it forward in gratitude for the kindness they’d received.

Over the years, the restaurant has changed names, shapes, and locations but it never lost the beloved flavours it was known for. After his father’s retirement, Thomas stepped up to honour his family legacy. In 2016, he founded Big Jerk, bringing a modern twist to the family’s traditional recipes while staying true to the essence of Caribbean cuisine.

Operating out of the Wooden Boat Food Company, owned by Chef Thompson, Big Jerk has expanded the menu to include crowd-pleasers like jerk poutine, jerk tacos, wood-fired pizza, and smoked brisket, alongside staples like jerk chicken, jerk pork, and oxtail. It’s also become a go-to for catering— offering services for weddings, private events, and large gatherings.

Big Jerk’s food truck even brings a taste of the Caribbean to the streets.

FEEDING MORE THAN BELLIES

In the same way, Thomas continues his father’s tradition of giving back through his partnership with A Better Tent City (ABTC), a community that provides safe and stable housing for residents experiencing homelessness.

Once a week, Thomas and his mother, Lucinda Nicholas, step into the ABTC kitchen to prepare hot, nutritious meals for the residents.

It’s a labour of love and a reflection of the compassion that their family has embodied for decades.

“This is something Dad would always do,” Thomas explained. “At closing time, he would give meals to the homeless. We’re carrying on what he did at this location now.”

The response from ABTC residents has been overwhelmingly

positive. Residents rave about the food, with the jerk chicken being a standout favourite, and the dishes range from beloved classics to holiday-inspired creations.

The weekly meals provide a moment of connection and dignity for ABTC residents, many of whom face daily struggles. Being able to access hot, fresh meals with vibrant flavours brings joy and nourishment to the residents, and being able to uphold the spirit of giving back is especially meaningful to Thomas and his mother. From commercial kitchens to the food trucks and everywhere in between, the mission remains the same: to feed the body and the soul.

“It's a pleasure to keep Pop's culinary dishes up and running and to bring a little taste of the Island to everyone,” said Thomas.

Cranberries: A Bright (and Tasty) Addition to the Great Outdoors

JOHN OBERHOFFNER

Now that the warmer weather is upon us, so is the season of barbequed meals shared with loved ones. But why fire up the grill over meals you’re no longer fired up by? The same old barbecue recipes that have stood the test of time may need some revitalizing or a new twist to rejuvenate the grilled food palate. Believe it or not, cranberries might just be the fuse that ignites the new flavour explosion you’ve been looking for.

You read that right: cranberries!

So many people have relegated this red berry to the gelatinous cylinder of sauce used only at Thanksgiving or Christmas. Woefully, they have never gone beyond that indoor oven cuisine from the frosts of fall and winter. They have rarely, if ever, incorporated this tart and tangy taste intensifier into their spring and summer menus.

There are many reasons why cranberries are a good option. Healthwise, the benefits of cranberry (or its powdered supplements in pill or capsule form) have long been known to help eliminate UTIs by preventing the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections from adhering to the bladder wall.

That’s not all. Studies have placed cranberries in a good light

for reducing fasting glucose levels and improving periodontal health in subjects with Type II diabetes. It’s also high in fibre, which helps with cholesterol and glucose levels. Other advantages to consuming cranberries include anti-inflammatory and additional antimicrobial benefits. For more information and a deeper understanding of cranberry research, visit cranberryinstitute.org Cranberries are available yearround. Harvested fresh in the fall, they freeze exceptionally well, and dried cranberries last a long time in the pantry, ready to be pulled out at any time of the year.

But back to the barbecue. Add those cranberries to your favourite barbecue sauce or glaze to add a new dimension of tanginess to your chicken. Try them in your fall-off-the-bone bourbon rib recipe. Take the crock pot outdoors for cranberry BBQ meatballs. Grilled vegetables work well with a goat cheese and cranberry-based topping. Add cranberries to any combination of spicy, sweet, maple, chipotle, or downright smoky set of spices and herbs, and you’ll have a recipe wafting over to the neighbours that will make their mouths water. You might want to make extra.

Any salad can be boring after a time, but using cranberries in a feta, apple, and mixed greens plate

can up the game. Cranberry vinaigrette is a refreshing and healthy alternative to the heavier dressings out of the bottle in the fridge. Even the old ambrosia or jellied salad recipe can be given a tasty makeover by adding cranberries to the mix, as a side dish or dessert. Quick and easy, these dishes are perfect for the days when you want a changeup without turning food prep into an all-day affair. And what barbecue isn’t complete without beverages? For the non-drinking bunch, consider a cranberry spritzer, cranberry and ginger ale with a lime, or make a simple cranberry punch on a hot day for friends and family. For those who want something stronger, try a cranberry-jalapeno martini, or add cranberries as a twist to a Moscow Mule, a rum mimosa, sangria, or a Cosmopolitan. For the do-it-yourself aficionados, try making cranberry-infused vodka, gin, tequila, or bourbon. If you dream it, you can do it.

So, the next time you get to the grill, don’t forget to bring out the cranberries. These radiant red orbs aren’t just for the cold days—take them outside for a bright, tasty, and healthy update to your open-air cuisine! Try for yourself in this delightfully fresh salad that is the perfect complement to your barbequed meal.

KEVIN JAMES THOMAS © ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF BIG JERK

ADVERTORIAL

Wilder Than You Imagine, Closer Than You Think: Northwest Alberta

Not every journey begins at an airport—but this one might. Tucked into Alberta’s Peace Country and accessible by direct flights from Calgary and Edmonton via WestJet and Air Canada, the Grande Prairie region is closer than you'd expect. What’s more is that the adventures waiting for you here are ones you won’t forget.

WALK WITH GIANTS

Alberta’s prehistoric past comes roaring back to life at the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum. Step inside to check out the life-sized fossil replicas and interactive displays, but the real fun begins when you step outside. This is a “museum without walls,” where you can walk into the Wapiti River Valley

and join guided fossil hunts on one of the richest dinosaur bonebeds in the world. Watch paleontologists at work, join a dig, or take a behindthe-scenes tour that makes you feel like part of the expedition.

WATERFALLS, WETLANDS, AND WILDERNESS

Once you’ve looked 90 million years into the past, shift your gaze to the landscape around you. There’s wilderness and biodiversity in every direction! To the south, Kakwa Provincial Recreation Area is home to Alberta’s tallest waterfalls and is surrounded by boreal forest, perfect for quiet walks where you can tune into the world around you.

For the first time in more than 15 years, The Orient Express is back on the rails.

The glamour of the golden age of travel is back with the unveiling of the new-look interiors of the La Dolce Vita Orient Express. A celebration of the allure and artistic flair of the 1960s, the train design pays homage to the spirit of freedom and life itself. The luxurious new train interior is designed by the internationally renowned Milan-based design firm Dimorestudio and will take passengers to some of Italy's hottest travel spots. The La Dolce Vita Orient Express is the first in a series of ambitious relaunches by the Orient Express brand, which has been part of the Accor luxury group since 2022. The relaunch of the train was born from a visionary collaboration between Arsenale and Orient Express as a way to bring back rail as the ultimate luxury travel. Made in Italy, the train celebrates the country’s cultural, scenic and

It sounds like a dream, but it’s a promise: A View to Remember is an award-winning Bed and Breakfast in West Kelowna that invites travellers to slow down, savour the moment, and wake up to something extraordinary.

SUSTAINABILITY LEADERS

In 2015, A View to Remember became the first B&B in British Columbia to be Sustainable Tourism Certified, earning a Gold rating that celebrates their long-standing commitment to eco-conscious hospitality. For you, this means that on your visit, you can rest easy knowing your stay supports responsible travel practices and celebrates the beauty of the Okanagan without compromising the environment.

BREAKFAST, YOUR WAY

It’s called a B&B for a reason, and here, breakfast is far from an afterthought; it’s half the ex perience! With flexible seating times between 7:30 and 9:30

Over at Saskatoon Island Provincial Park, you’ll find trumpeter swans keeping you company on your lakeside camping trips. Bring your binoculars—this is one of the best birding spots in the province. Even in the city, you’re never far from the wild. Muskoseepi Park has over 1,100 acres of tree-lined trails and placid ponds. Whether you’re walking, cycling, or having a picnic under the trees, you may just forget that you’re not in a nature preserve.

HEART AND HERITAGE

There’s more to the Grande Prairie region than dinosaur bones and hikes, fantastic as they are. You’ll also find countless ways to take in the art

and culture of the region alongside a warm and welcoming community.

The region is home to many art galleries that showcase works by Indigenous artists and regional creators who are reshaping our view of the North. With community exhibits and local voices, these spaces feel less like galleries and more like gatherings.

Don’t miss the Grande Prairie Museum in Muskoseepi Park, where visitors of all ages can travel through time—from Ice Age beasts to the homesteading pioneers of the Peace Region. Throughout the year, community festivals brighten the calendar with Métis fiddle music, local cuisine, and a celebration of the region’s rich roots and modern identity.

gastronomic history, striving to guide guests on a unique adventure through Italy’s most exciting destinations.

“With La Dolce Vita Orient Express, we are introducing a new model to the global tourism landscape, leading an emerging trend: rail cruises, which are becoming increasingly relevant worldwide,” said Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenale. “Thanks to the

synergy between Italian excellence in railways and manufacturing, this project helps strengthen an integrated hospitality system that complements the cruise and hotel industries.”

Originally launched in 1883 and immortalized in Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express, the train ceased operation in 2009. The brand is now undergoing

a.m., guests can begin their day when it suits them best. Each morning brings a rotating menu of signature egg dishes, freshly baked goods, and fruit often picked straight from the property’s trees. Organic coffee, various teas, and fresh juices round out a nourishing breakfast that powers up your day exactly how you like it. To make a good thing better, during the summer months, you can enjoy your breakfast alfresco on the private deck, taking in the views of the surrounding landscape—there’s no better way to start your day than by experiencing the namesake of this charming B&B. But if you

TRAVEL THAT FEELS GOOD TO TAKE

The Grande Prairie region does tourism a little differently. Local tour companies prioritize sustainability, Indigenous guides lead landbased experiences, and restaurants source ingredients from nearby farms, creating menus that are both eco-conscious and delicious. Their care for the land is apparent in everything from food to experiences, and it’s all because they care about making sure that when you return for your next visit, everything feels just the way you left it.

For all its wildness, it’s only a short flight away. Plan your trip today at gptourism.ca

a major revival. Alongside La Dolce Vita, two Orient Express hotels are set to open this spring, followed by the Orient Express Corinthian—a luxury sailing yacht—in 2026. Plans are also underway to relaunch the original Paris-Istanbul route, although no official date has been announced.

The train comprises 31 cabins, 18 suites, and 12 deluxe cabins, including the opulent La Dolce Vita Suite, and will travel across Italy to destinations such as Venice, Tuscany, and Sicily.

“Indulge in the enchanting radiance of La Dolce Vita Orient Express Delight in the allure of an iconic train’s pure elegance and delights,” the website reads. “Embark on an unforgettable voyage through Italy.”

Each carriage is carefully crafted. In the dining car, warm orange leather seating contrasts with gleaming metal walls and brown-toned carpeting. The bar carriage features curving velvet seats and a playful harlequin motif, all coloured in soft creams,

blues and oranges—a nod to 1970s exuberance.

Deluxe cabins, each around seven square metres, are adorned with abstract patterned sofas and wooden panelling that recalls vintage railway charm. Meanwhile, the more spacious 11-square-metre suite cabins are clad in deep red velvet, offset by polished steel furniture—a striking interplay of softness and sheen.

“This unique experience is an invitation to rediscover Italy through a new lens—where the glamour of the 1960s and 1970s Italy meets the country’s rich hospitality and warm conviviality,” said Gilda Perez Alvarado, CEO of Orient Express. “A true celebration of all that Italy represents, this voyage captures the essence of the country’s landscape, flavours, and way of life.”

The Orient Express revival also includes a redesign of the historic train by French architect Maxime d'Angeac, revealed earlier in the year.

(Source: Reuters)

prefer to start your day inside, you can dine in the bright, sunlit kitchen. There’s still plenty to look at, as the walls are filled with hand-painted works by celebrated local artists. It’s a love letter to living local and a great way to get acquainted with the talented community of West Kelowna.

WINE COUNTRY MAGIC

Just a short stroll from the West Kelowna Wine Trail, home to some of the region’s most celebrated wineries, A View to Remember is the perfect base camp for wine lovers. Whether you're in the mood for an intimate tasting at a family-run vineyard or a luxurious dining experience at a globally acclaimed estate, it’s all within reach.

If wine doesn’t suit your tastes, don’t worry—the area is bursting with activities! Drop in for a culinary class, an art exhibit, live music, and seasonal events if you time your visit right. Two breweries and several top-notch restaurants are also

just minutes away on foot, so that you can take in the gorgeous views of the Okanagan Valley on your way. You’ll also find farmers markets and fruit stands offering the region’s famous fresh produce, scenic hiking trails with panoramic views, and plenty of sandy beaches along the waterfront parkway, perfect for a sunny vacation. And just across the bridge, you’ll find downtown Kelowna. Here, you can easily spend a day exploring the Myra Canyon Rail Trail, strolling the Kelowna City Park and Boardwalk, visiting U-pick orchards, or enjoying a family-friendly afternoon at the Kangaroo Farm. Whether you’re planning a wine-soaked getaway, an active adventure, or a peaceful retreat, A View to Remember is the base camp you need to turn a great vacation into an unforgettable one. With its sustainable philosophy, unbeatable location, and delicious breakfasts, this B&B truly lives up to its name, leaving guests excited to return.

Embark on an Unforgettable Journey into the Heart of the Great Bear Rainforest

This September, the wilderness is calling with an adventure like no other. Sea Wolf Adventures is ready to unveil a transformative wilderness experience in partnership with Sointula Lodge. Our all-inclusive four-day/threenight retreat invites you to explore the pristine beauty of the Great Bear Rainforest, immerse yourself in Kwakwaka’wakw culture, and witness the majestic wildlife of the Canadian Pacific Northwest.

A UNIQUE BLEND OF CULTURE, COMFORT, AND WILDERNESS

On the edge of the Broughton Archipelago, Sointula Lodge offers a serene and comfortable base for exploration. Each cabin is thoughtfully designed to blend rustic charm with modern amenities, ensuring a cozy retreat after a day of adventure. Our communal dining experiences feature meals crafted from local ingredients, showcasing the bounty of the coast while supporting sustainable practices—a win-win for the environment and your taste buds!

GUIDED BY INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE

As an Indigenous-owned and operated company, Sea Wolf Adventures is committed to creating meaningful connections between guests and the natural world through the lens of Kwakwaka’wakw culture. Our experienced guides share stories and insights passed down through generations, offering a deep connection to the land and its history. From the ancient cedar forests to the salmon-filled rivers, every journey is designed to build your understanding of the land in a way you may have never considered before.

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS LIKE NO

OTHER

Set out on unforgettable excursions—watch grizzlies roam riverbanks, watch whales interact with the waters around them, or take in the culturally significant sights, like ancient petroglyphs carved into stone. With each encounter, your Indigenous guides

share the stories of their ancestors, connecting you to the land in a way that lingers long after your return home. Every moment connects you to the rhythm of this extraordinary place.

A JOURNEY THAT NOURISHES THE SOUL

The retreat invites you to slow down and tune in to the land, to its stories, and to yourself. A typical day might begin with a guided wildlife tour at dawn, followed by a hearty breakfast of locally sourced fare. Afternoons may include boat journeys through fjords, visits to ancient village sites, or walks through mossdraped forests. Evenings bring fireside storytelling, quiet reflection, and the chance to stargaze beneath unpolluted skies.

YOUR VISIT MAKES

A DIFFERENCE

By participating in this retreat, guests support Indigenous-led conservation and community-based tourism. Your presence helps

sustain cultural practices, protect fragile ecosystems, and create meaningful economic opportunities in remote communities.

RESERVE YOUR PLACE IN THE WILD

The inaugural season runs from September 3 to October 15, 2025, with packages starting at $5,333 per person (double occupancy). Special rates are also available for youth aged 10 to 16.

Whether you seek breathtaking wildlife encounters, cultural enrichment, or simply time to reconnect with nature, this retreat offers something truly special. Space is limited to ensure an intimate and personalized experience, so early booking is encouraged.

To learn more or to reserve your spot, please visit seawolfadventures.ca or contact us at lodge@seawolfadventures.ca.

Reconnect. Rewild. Remember.

Expanded Exhibitions and National Spotlight: What’s New at the Chinese Canadian Museum

As Canadians across the country look to engage more with this nation’s important history and culture, the Chinese Canadian Museum— Canada’s first and only museum dedicated to Chinese-Canadian stories—is set for a busy summer of local outings and domestic traveller visits with newly renovated spaces. Fresh off the prestigious 2024 Governor General's History Award for Excellence in Museums, the Chinese Canadian Museum opened two new exhibitions in May, as well

as the launch of its immersive museum retail store, 1889 Trading Co.

Earlier this year, the new lobby also opened to the public, and soon, an education centre and rooftop garden will also be re-opened.

Housed in the Wing Sang Building—the oldest brick building in Vancouver’s Chinatown—the four-storey museum is filled with rich history, right down to the infrastructure. It offers visitors a journey through ChineseCanadian experiences, from the earliest migrations to contemporary contributions, shedding light on pivotal moments in ChineseCanadian history.

A WALK THROUGH

THE PAST

The museum invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in four thoughtprovoking exhibitions: “Reshaping Collections: Where History Meets Art” on the first floor, “Dream Factory: Cantopop Mandopop 1980s-2000” on the second, and the new military exhibition “A

Soldier For All Seasons” along with “Period Rooms: Historic School Room and Living Room” on the third. The museum offers guided tours in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, ensuring accessibility to visitors of different backgrounds.

RESHAPING COLLECTIONS

Featuring unique art by six diverse Chinese Canadian artists from across the country, this exhibition explores the rich tapestry of Chinese Canadian history. An innovative feature of this exhibition is portable 3D scanning technology, used to scan historical objects in creating new artworks, challenging the boundaries between art, object, and history. The artists were invited to create new artworks derived from their historical research in the renowned Chung Collection at the University of British Columbia's Rare Books and Special Collections.

DREAM FACTORY

Dream Factory celebrates the rise of Cantopop and Mandopop, from chart-topping anthems to devot-

ed global fandoms. Spanning two decades, it traces the genre’s powerful cultural impact and spotlights Canada’s role in this international phenomenon. A must-visit for music fans, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone moved by the rhythms of migration, memory, and creativity.

A SOLDIER FOR ALL SEASONS

Marking 80 years since the end of the Second World War, this exhibition highlights the experiences of Chinese Canadians on the battlefronts. Travel back in time to the 1940s and discover the lives of the Chinese Canadian soldiers through their stories, belongings on display, and immersive audiovisual displays.

PERIOD ROOMS: HISTORIC SCHOOL ROOM & LIVING ROOM

On the third floor, meticulously recreated period rooms transport guests to bygone eras. The oldest school room in Vancouver offers a tangible connection to the community’s educational heritage, and you can even take a seat in a recreated 1930s living room. Play music on

the phonograph or pick up the rotary phone to hear memories of life in the Wing Sang Building. Don’t forget to take your portrait as part of a historic class photo as a keepsake.

BRIDGING PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

Beyond its role as a repository of history, the museum shares stories and showcases the experiences of Chinese-Canadian artists, creatives, academics, and community leaders, and an annual pass gives you access to exhibitions year-round. After your visit, why not extend your experience by immersing yourself further in Vancouver’s Chinatown? Indulge in the neighbourhood’s vibrant culture and support local businesses serving mouthwatering dishes and selling unique products. It’s the perfect ending to a truly unforgettable museum trip.

For tickets and more information on current exhibitions, visit chinesecanadianmuseum.ca/visit

RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER

This year alone, the team raised over $10,000 to help rebuild the Telegraph Cove Whale Interpretive Centre, a vital part of the coast’s conservation efforts. True stewards of the land, the lodge understands that conservation is a win-win for the guests that return year after year and the wildlife companions

EXCLUSIVITY

When you’re looking for a quiet escape in a place that feels entirely yours, Coastal Springs is the place to go. With a maximum capacity of just eight guests, this level of exclusivity is only found here.

Gather a group of six friends or family members, and the entire lodge becomes yours—a private, all-inclusive fishing escape where your only neighbours are orcas, humpbacks, and the towering evergreens of the Pacific coast. Why choose scale and size when you could opt for small, personal, and unforgettable?

Each fishing day is fully guided, with expert career guides (some of whom have been part of the lodge’s story since the 70s) coaching you one-on-one, whether it’s your first cast or your hundredth.

You’ll fish from comfortable, well-equipped boats just five to 15 minutes from the lodge, so you can make the most of your fishing experience without battling the waves. And when the day’s catch is done, the lodge’s full fish-processing service ensures your bounty is cleaned, filleted, vacuum-packed, and frozen—all you have to do is reel it in!

ting to the island is simple: all you have to do is show up at the floatplane dock in Vancouver. Everything else is taken care of: gourmet meals paired with fine wines, top-notch fishing gear, cold-weather clothing, boat fuel, expert guiding, and full licensing.

You won’t lift a finger unless it’s to set the hook. And with excellent deals on remaining 2025 dates and a special opportunity to book your 2026 trip at 2025 prices, there's never been a better time to plan your getaway.

Visit coastalsprings.net to learn more and book your trip.

TIME FOR TRAILS

Welcome to a small city that makes big memories. When you step into Salmon Arm, British Columbia, you’re surrounded by the picturesque Shuswap region, defined by its proximity to Shuswap Lake but distinct in its own casual and relaxed vibe. Salmon Arm offers a mix of natural beauty, a welcoming community atmosphere, and a broad array of activities for visitors. Salmon Arm, less crowds, more space. Your next favourite vacation.

LIVING LOCAL

Salmon Arm is a small city with big ideas. It’s a place of great substance, home to growers, makers, builders, and overachievers. Our community is proud, welcoming, and deeply connected to the land, and there’s always something happening in Salmon Arm, any time of year.

To visit Salmon Arm is to live local at a relaxed pace that values life in the moment. From epic trails and incredible lake access to cozy taprooms and sunset vineyard concerts, Salmon Arm welcomes you to live in the moment, not race through it.

If you love the outdoors, you’re in the right place. Surrounded by water, mountains and rolling hills, Salmon Arm’s beauty and the land’s abundance define the people and the culture. Salmon Arm is home to close to 60 multi-use trails within the city limits and more than 650 throughout the Shuswap region, accessible by bike, foot, horseback, or ATV. Salmon Arm is also home to a top-rated champion golf course, along with a collection of courses to explore. Visitors can take on the Shuswap Golf Trail to enjoy all the courses the city has to offer. Whether you’re planning a family stroll, a solo forest run, or an adrenaline-pumping backcountry ride, there’s a trail here for you.

For outdoor enthusiasts who want to plan out their routes, the Shuswap Trail Alliance allows trail lovers to explore our full trail network and find their perfect path.

Plus, with two full-service boat launches, dog-friendly public beaches, and four-season fishing, you’re never more than 10 minutes from the water. Unlike more crowded

lakes, Shuswap Lake offers peace and space to truly unwind.

DRINKS WORTH TOASTING

Our local food and beverage scene is buzzing with creativity and community. With more than 600 farms, the Shuswap region offers true farm-to-table opportunities that are sure to satisfy. Family-friendly, flavour-filled, and proudly local, these spots deserve a place on your must-visit list:

• NORTHYARDS CIDER CO.: Set in a scenic orchard with on-site camping, their crisp ciders are the best way to indulge in Salmon Arm’s apple-growing heritage. They’re beloved for a reason, after all.

• SHUSWAP CIDER CO.: We’re known for our perfect lake days here in Salmon Arm, and those start with cold drinks from a local favourite. Grab a flight on the patio, catch some live music, or join a yoga and sips event.

• MARIONETTE WINERY: Salmon Arm knows how to

host a great night out, any time of year. With one of the best patios in town, live music Fridays, and monthly markets, Marionette is a vineyard experience you won’t forget.

• RICOCHET BREWING AND TAPHOUSE: 2024’s Salmon Arm Business of the Year, this downtown favourite features 36 rotating taps, a commitment to local makers, a delicious food menu, and a patio overlooking Ross Street Plaza, where you just might catch street performers. Mocktails and non-alcoholic options are available at all four venues, so everyone in your crew can sip something special. So… what’s the rush?

Whether you’re on a road trip between Vancouver and Calgary or planning an extended getaway, make time for a visit. We promise—you’ll stay longer than planned.

Find more reasons to visit at salmonarmtourism.ca

Remote hiking, climbing, mountain biking, wildlife, alpine lakes, and cozy lodges await.

Summer in the Backcountry: Adventure, Solitude, and the Best Views in BC

If your idea of summer includes less traffic and more trail time, it might be time to head into BC’s backcountry. Away from the crowded beaches and busy campgrounds, there’s a quieter, wilder side of British Columbia just waiting to be explored, and summer is prime time to do it.

At Backcountry Lodges of BC, summer doesn’t need a soundtrack of car horns and Wi-Fi pings. Instead, your soundtrack will include waking up to birdsong and the breeze through the trees as you step onto a trail that winds through alpine meadows and spend your day exploring peaks, valleys, and vistas that most people never get to see.

Our member lodges are tucked deep into some of the province’s most spectacular and remote wilderness areas, places where the journey is part of the experience. Whether you arrive by floatplane, helicopter, or on foot, you’ll feel like you’ve left the world behind and stepped into something unforgettable.

2025 has shown a shift in travel trends for Canadians, with more people looking to explore the beauty in their own backyard.

With stunning coastlines, vibrant cities, and breathtaking national parks from coast to coast to coast, Canada offers an abundance of world-class experiences without the need for a passport.

This summer, schedule your vacation around something closer to home—you might be surprised at what’s waiting just down the road.

TOFINO, BRITISH COLUMBIA

With a focus on supporting the ocean and local wildlife, Tofino boasts a variety of ecohotels and initiatives that encourage travellers to connect with nature. As the sur fing capital of Canada, Tofino puts a focus on keeping its beaches and ocean clean by hosting beach cleanups and encouraging travellers not to use single-use plastics in the area.

The restriction of single-use plastic is nothing unusual to Canadians—particularly those in Tofino, since it became the first

THE PACE OF SUMMER

From hiking and backpacking to wildlife viewing and wildflower spotting, summer in the backcountry is all about reconnecting with nature and yourself and with a pace that reminds you to slow down and breathe it all in. The trails are open, the skies are clear, and the views make the effort more than worth it. And for

municipality in British Columbia to ban single-use plastic utensils in 2022, in addition to alreadybanned single-use items like plastic bags. Similarly, they placed restrictions on beach fires to limit the environmental impacts and keep the air clean.

In 2024, Tourism Tofino became a Biosphere Committed Destination with the Responsible Tourism Institute, which recognizes areas that align with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

The commitment highlights their sustainability efforts and helps to distinguish Tofino as a destination of choice for tourists who are seeking sustainable

those craving a little more adrenaline, adventure abounds. Climb craggy peaks with expert guides or test your limits on world-class mountain biking trails that weave through alpine forests and rocky ridgelines. Many of our lodges offer easy access to backcountry climbing routes and bike terrain that promise thrilling challenges and unforgettable views.

experiences and allows Tourism Tofino to go on to seek a Tourism Biosphere Certification.

EDMONTON, ALBERTA

In the summer of 2021, Edmonton became the first city in western Canada to join the Global Destination Sustainability Movement, a global index that tracks environmental sustainability in a bid to become a more attractive tourism destination.

Since then, Edmonton has heightened its focus on environmentally friendly options in the city and surrounding areas. As the fourth most sustainable

LEARN AS YOU ROAM

After a day outside, there’s no better reward than returning to one of our off-grid lodges, where the food is hearty, the hospitality is warm, and your only task is to relax. Summer in the backcountry is an opportunity to deepen your connection to the land. Many lodges offer value-added programming that allows you to engage your creative side while surrounded by natural inspiration. Take a photography class led by professional wilderness photographers, or join a plein-air painting or sketching session to capture the scenery through your own lens. Whether you’re learning how to frame the perfect mountain shot or simply trying something new, it’s a chance to bring home more than just memories.

YEAR-ROUND DELIGHTS

The experiences don’t end with summer, either. Spring and fall shoulder seasons offer even more solitude, stunning scenery, and rich wildlife experiences. In early

spring, you’ll find rushing waterfalls and signs of life emerging from hibernation. By fall, the larches turn golden, the air sharpens, and mountain goats and bears become easier to spot as they prepare for winter.

Whether visiting in July or in the quiet calm of September, you'll still find comfort in the wild—a wood-fired sauna, a cozy cabin bed, or a shared meal around a long table with fellow adventurers.

Curious about where to go?

Visit backcountrylodgesofbc.com to browse our lodge directory and start planning your backcountry escape. You’ll find helpful planning resources, packing tips, and details for every season.

Summer’s calling, and if you’re craving more connection than crowds, consider this your sign. The backcountry is wide open, and the season of sunlit hikes, glacier-fed dips, starry mountain nights, and maybe even a new skill is here.

Find your place at backcountrylodgesofbc.com

destination in North America, Edmonton has an abundance of sustainable initiatives to enjoy— ranging from sustainable eats, shopping, activities, transportation, and hotel stays.

Not only for tourists, Edmonton has put a focus on being greener overall, with projects like Canada’s largest rooftop solar installation, an urban park that’s 22 times the size of Central Park, and one of the first fully carbon-neutral neighbourhoods in Canada.

KELOWNA, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Kelowna has long felt the effects of climate change—with

flooding in the spring and dry summers that have contributed to wildfires and droughts, the transition to sustainability was a natural one for the western city. With a dedication to sustainability, the Thompson Okanagan Region became the first certified Biosphere destination in North America. Biosphere is a certification by the Responsible Tourism Institute that is aligned with the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals. With Kelowna receiving the designation, a collection of businesses around the area have also joined the pledge towards sustainability.

Tourism boards in the area urge visitors to tour Kelowna responsibly to not further contribute to climate change. To do so, Kelowna Tourism encourages travellers to use reusable water bottles and shopping bags, discover local foods, learn about Kelowna’s Indigenous roots, visit businesses that have made the commitment to the Biosphere Adhesion Program, and refrain from idling your vehicle.

Rooted in Culture, Embracing Every Guest: Tin Wis Resort Welcomes You to

Along the secluded, sandy coastline of Tofino, British Columbia, tradition and nature come together in harmony and tranquillity. Tin Wis Resort, owned and operated by the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, offers guests an authentic Indigenous experience honouring the land, community, and culture.

In the Tla-o-qui-aht language, Tin Wis means “calm waters,” a fitting name for this beachfront property on Mackenzie Beach. For generations, this site has served as a gathering place—a role it proud

visitors from across the globe to share in the spirit of community, culture, and care.

WHERE

COMFORT MEETS CULTURE

Tin Wis Resort offers 85 oceanfront rooms, each equipped with private balconies or patios that open directly onto the pristine sands of Tin Wis Beach. From the morning mist rising from the water all the way until you’re warmed by a beach fire at dusk, there are countless activities to partake in, each of

Best of all, each season brings its own charms—witnessing the power of a Pacific storm in winter is its own kind of thrill.

Each room is designed with comfort and simplicity in mind, creating a peaceful space to unwind after a day of West Coast adventure. Guests can enjoy modern amenities while surrounded by the ocean's soothing sounds and the soft glow of coastal sunsets. Whether you’re unwinding in one of our cozy rooms or enjoying the serenity of your private balcony, every detail is tailored to ensure your

Tofino

But what truly sets Tin Wis apart is the way it weaves Tla-o-qui-aht culture into every element of your stay. Indigenous art lines the walls of the resort, self-guided interpretive signage offers insights into local history and values, and a 200-year-old dugout canoe stands proudly on the property—a silent but powerful symbol of tradition and endurance.

AN INDIGENOUS-LED VISION

As an Indigenous Accessible employer, Tin Wis provides

stewardship. Revenue from tourism is reinvested into the protection and caretaking of local lands and waters, supporting a vision of sustainability that will benefit generations to come.

From cultural programming to the respectful storytelling embedded throughout the property, every detail is guided by a commitment to authenticity and respect.

A PLACE TO RECONNECT

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic retreat, or a solo journey to reconnect with yourself and nature, Tin Wis Resort offers more than just a room—it offers a meaningful experience. Guests are invited to slow down, breathe deeply, and feel the rhythms of the land and sea. Here, the calm waters of Tofino meet the rich cultural legacy of the Tla-o-qui-aht people, creating a space for reflection, learning, and deep connection.

Book your stay and learn more at tinwis.ca. Let the calm waters welcome you.

Discover the Artistic Wonders of Hope, British Columbia

Hope, British Columbia, is not your average mountain town.

Tucked away in the heart of the Canadian wilderness, at the junction of the Fraser and Coquihalla Rivers, Hope is a hidden gem of a town overflowing with rustic charm. Known for its stunning natural beauty and charming locally owned gift shops, this quaint community is a haven for chainsaw carving enthusiasts from around the world.

Hope boasts over 80 intricate chainsaw carvings, and many of the works on display feature local wildlife such as bears and eagles, human characters such as cyclists, prospectors, and even John Rambo and Sheriff Teasle from the 1982 film First Blood, the majority of which was filmed in the community.

If you're a fan of this unique art form, there's no better time to visit Hope than during the world-class Chainsaw Carving Event, held every two years in Hope's downtown Memorial Park. Scheduled to run from August 14-17 this year, this free-to-attend event promises to be a feast for the senses, with talented carvers from around the world demonstrating their skills

and creating stunning works of art right before your eyes. In addition to watching world-class carvers flex their artistic muscles, you can bid for a carving of your own at the Speed Carving Auctions.

But it's not just about the carving—the event also features local food and art vendors, offering the perfect opportunity to soak up the unique culture of this charming town.

No vacation is complete without sampling local restaurants, after all.

From classic mom-and-pop spots

to traditional chain restaurants, Hope has something to satisfy any craving. Sink your teeth into local favourites at Sharron's Deli or Stallone's Kitchen + Bar, or grab a coffee and snack from one of the cafes. With so many great places to eat, these small-town restaurants are worth road-tripping for.

Whether you're a chainsaw carving enthusiast or a traveller on the hunt for unique experiences, Hope's Chainsaw Carving Event is the perfect opportunity to extend your stay and explore this bountiful

region known for its breathtaking vistas and rugged beauty.

Experience exhilarating adventure whitewater rafting on the Nahatlatch River or mountain biking on the hand-built black diamond trail, First Blood (opening June 28th). Discover Othello Tunnels in Coquihalla Canyon Park (re-opening this summer), take a day trip out to Manning Park to hike, or ride the Hell's Gate Airtram located in Boston Bar. Rich in Indigenous history,

cultural tours and experiences await you at Tuckkwiowhum Village and Syéxw Chó:leqw Adventure Park. Located about 15 minutes east of Hope is Sunshine Valley, home to the Tashme Museum, where one can learn about the history of the Tashme Japanese Canadian Internment Camp. One can also visit Yale Historic Site, located about 20 minutes north of Hope. More into the arts scene? Visit the Hope Arts Gallery or many of our local gift shops to peruse the fantastic creations of our local artisans. No matter what interests you, you're sure to be captivated by the beauty and charm of this small mountain town, and the entire Hope, Cascades & Canyons region. Don't forget to mark your calendar for the 2025 World-Class Chainsaw Carving Event—this free event is not to be missed! For more information about the competition, as well as places to stay and things to do in and around the Hope area, visit tourismhcc.ca. The competition can also be found on Facebook at @HopeChainsawCarving.

This Is What 40+ Years of Conservation Work Looks Like

Deep within British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest, Nimmo Bay isn’t just a luxury wilderness resort; it’s living proof that sustainability and hospitality can not only coexist but thrive together.

For over four decades, the Murray family has stewarded this remote outpost with a simple but powerful ethos: live a life in balance with nature. Long before sustainability became a buzzword, Nimmo Bay was building a future rooted in environmental responsibility, cultural respect, and thoughtful innovation.

POWERING

THE FUTURE—SINCE THE '80S

One of Nimmo Bay’s earliest and most impactful conservation achievements happened in the early 1980s when the family constructed a small hydroelectric plant powered by the on-site waterfall. This off-grid initiative provides about 85 per cent of the resort’s energy needs each year— quietly, cleanly, and consistently. And plans are in place to integrate solar energy by 2027, further minimizing the need for diesel during the summer months when the water levels are too low for hydro power.

LITTLE CHANGES, BIG RIPPLES

friendly meals, sustainable ingredients, and a rigorous garbage and recycling sorting policy help ensure that behindthe-scenes operations tread lightly on the land.

LIGHT ON THE LAND, RICH IN COMMUNITY

BIG-PICTURE PARTNERSHIPS

Beyond the lodge, Nimmo Bay actively supports regional conservation projects, working to protect wildlife habitats and wild places. Their grey and black water treatment systems go above and beyond, originally engineered for use on cruise ships, to ensure the surrounding environment remains pristine. Even guest experiences are designed with care. Programming is increasingly centred close to the lodge to reduce fuel use from helicopters and boats, and the culinary team sources ingredients from small-scale Vancouver Island farms and fisheries, slashing food miles while supporting the local economy.

A LIVING LEGACY

From composting to chemicalfree cleaning products, the team takes "leave no trace" from a motto to a mission. Vegetarian-

At Nimmo Bay, sustainability isn’t just in the infrastructure, it’s in the daily choices. Guests sip from reusable bottles filled with UV-treated, mountain-fed water. There are no single-use plastics. Amenities come in refillable containers, and bath products are sourced from local, woman-owned companies like Sangre de Fruta. Even the Fox Fold toilet paper is chosen for its eco credentials.

Nimmo Bay’s physical footprint is intentionally delicate: over half of the resort floats, and the rest is perched on stilts or nestled along cedar boardwalks, significantly reducing the need to clear forests. Buildings are constructed using locally sourced materials wherever possible. In an industry known for fast furniture and constant updates, Nimmo leans into longevity—curating spaces with antiques, upcycled treasures, and custom-made pieces from local artisans. Staff uniforms come from Anian, a Victoria-based clothing brand focused on natural fibres like wool and circular fashion using recycled materials. Meanwhile, the lodge’s shop supports Indigenous makers, women-owned businesses, and Canadian small enterprises, ensuring every purchase benefits both people and the planet.

After 40+ years, Nimmo Bay remains a leader in regenerative tourism—quietly proving that luxury doesn’t need to come at nature’s expense. With every refillable bottle, every locally sourced meal, and every cedar boardwalk, the resort continues to model a better way forward: one where sustainability isn’t a sacrifice—it’s the story.

Where Wild Meets Welcome: The Captivating World of Mount Logan EcoLodge

Surrounded by the untamed beauty of the Yukon wilderness, Mount Logan EcoLodge & Yukon Guided Adventures offers warmth, comfort, and a deep connection to the wild. It’s where adventure and tranquillity come together to create unforgettable experiences. Whether seeking exploration or rest, guests are met with breathtaking landscapes, genuine hospitality, and a touch of Yukon magic.

A WILDERNESS RETREAT

LIKE NO OTHER

Mount Logan EcoLodge is a gateway to adventure and a retreat for the soul. Reaching this wilderness haven from British Columbia is surprisingly convenient. Whitehorse International Airport is an approximately two-hour flight from Vancouver or Victoria, with Air North, Yukon’s Airline, and Air Canada offering year-round service. From Whitehorse, the lodge is then a stunning 1.5-hour scenic drive, bringing you to our doorstep. The lodge proudly takes its name from Mount Logan, Canada’s highest peak. While the summit itself isn’t directly visible from the lodge buildings, its spirit is ever-present

and a significant part of the local grandeur. In fact, on clear days, guests can behold its majestic peak during spectacular flightseeing tours or from the vantage points of several hikes offered as part of our Yukon Guided Adventures. Though it lies roughly 150 kilometres away, feeling like it's just in our 'backyard,' its formidable presence and the entire St. Elias Mountain Range define the surrounding landscape and offer jaw-dropping views in every direction.

Roxanne Tanase-Mason, a seasoned explorer, guide, visionary, and the owner of Mount Logan EcoLodge and Yukon Guided Adventures, along with her dedicated local team, ensures that every moment here is an experience to cherish.

With nearly four decades in the tourism industry, she has led adventurers across Canada and Europe, working with world-class travel companies like Butterfield & Robinson. The heart and soul of this wilderness haven, Roxanne is dedicated to providing exceptional hospitality, curating unforgettable experiences through Yukon Guided Adventures' old

and new packages, and creating a welcoming space where guests feel like family. With a touch of magic and a sprinkle of stardust, she transforms every stay into a cherished memory.

“From the cozy ambiance of our lodge to the exquisite flavours of our cuisine and the curated adventures we offer, I want every aspect of the experiences to be both rejuvenating and unforgettable,” she explained.

If you’re craving an escape from the hustle and bustle of crowds and city life, this is the place to find it. Whether marvelling at the Northern Lights dancing overhead, hiking through glacier-fed valleys, or spotting Dall sheep, grizzlies, and caribou in their natural habitat, Roxanne and her team are the people to bring your adventure to life.

WHAT SETS MOUNT LOGAN APART?

• Rustic Charm: Cozy, well-appointed accommodations that blend comfort and wilderness.

• Expert Guides: Explore Kluane National Park’s vast terrain with passionate local guides.

• Seasonal Beauty: From winter

sunrises to the midnight sun, the Yukon dazzles year-round.

• Authenticity: This is the true Yukon—raw, wild, and real.

A CULINARY EXPERIENCE ROOTED IN THE NORTH

At the lodge, food is part of the story. The culinary team highlights Yukon farms and wild-foraged ingredients—spruce tips, fireweed, rosehips—while growing their own garden each season. House-made jams, compotes, and creative meals round out an authentic northern menu, whether it’s a hearty break fast or dinner under the stars.

YOUR YUKON ADVENTURE AWAITS

With new Yukon Guided Adventures packages and summer and fall openings still available, now is the perfect time to plan. If you’re ready to trade the ordinary for the unforgettable, the Yukon is calling—and Mount Logan EcoLodge is ready to welcome you home.

Why wait? Whether you're dreaming of summer hikes, autumnal colours, or the magical winter getaway you

Get

“Carried Away”

Nothing can quite prepare visitors for the step back in time they experience when they cross the threshold at the Northwest Carriage Museum: pictures of these vehicles just don’t do justice to how gorgeous and impactful this world-class collection is in person. Devoid of glass walls and velvet ropes, this museum truly does feel like a stroll through a bygone era. The exhibits not only showcase the beauty and craftsmanship of the vehicles and artifacts, but also perfectly encapsulate their lives and personal histories. The love of this collection by those running the museum can be felt in every detail, and the experience leaves visitors stunned. Even kids of all ages are deeply engaged: playful and thoughtfully crafted interactive exhibits allow visitors to get their hands on history and thoroughly debunk the myth that learning about history can’t be fun!

The Northwest Carriage Museum focuses on horsedrawn transportation and related artifacts. The collection

at the Northwest Carriage Museum

has grown to an astounding 64 horse-drawn vehicles, including several featured in old Hollywood films such as “Gone with the Wind.” It also features thousands of 19thcentury artifacts, including period clothing, carriage-making tools, and day-to-day objects that bring the period to life!

This stunning display is not what you would expect to find in a small town: the collection is world-class and invites visitors to “Come get Carried Away!” to another era.

The museum began in 2002

with a donation of a 21-vehicle private collection from local businessman Gary Dennis. Over the past 23 years, the museum has seen growth not only in its collection, but also in visitor numbers, community and industry partnerships, and renown.

Museum curator Jerry Bowman has played a key role in the museum's growth. The “why” behind this is no big mystery— spend five minutes with Jerry among these incredible vehicles, and he’ll have you so enthused that you’ll be chomping at the bit to restore your own

carriage! The “how” is the more serendipitous tale: after retiring early from corporate careers in Southern California and moving to Raymond 22 years ago, Jerry and his wife Laurie had no idea the adventure into which they were about to be drawn when they started volunteering at the newly opened Northwest Carriage Museum. Laurie ended up at the helm of the organization as Executive Director, where she focused her efforts on spreading the word about this hidden gem. Jerry, a long-time history buff who had

previously restored antiques and classic cars, was spellbound by the history and craftsmanship of these vehicles and became a historian of the horse-drawn era, as well as a restoration and conservation resource for carriage lovers worldwide. Under the guidance of the Bowmans, the Northwest Carriage Museum has gained renown worldwide, becoming a must-see destination for travellers in the Pacific Northwest and a tourism boon to the small town of Raymond. The Northwest Carriage Museum—located on the pristine Willapa River in the natural wonderland of Southwest Washington—is full of surprises, to say the least! Its story is one not only of history, but also of community—its mission to keep horse-drawn history alive has changed the face of the town, and the stewardship of transportation history is for the better.

Visit them from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., year-round, at 314 Alder Street in Raymond, WA. To schedule a guided group tour, call (360) 942-4150.

Kind Traveler: The Travel Revolution That Gives Back

Kind Traveler announced a major expansion of its Every Stay Gives Back (ESGB) program. With 20 newly onboarded hotels and 16 charity partnerships across 16 destinations worldwide, Kind Traveler continues its mission to make travel a force for kindness, creating measurable impact on local communities and ecosystems.

New destinations include Patagonia, Chile; Maui, Hawaii; Palermo, Italy; Victoria, Canada; Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts; Cannonville, Utah; and nine locations across California in collaboration with Visit California. Since launching in September 2023, the program has raised more than $601,690 for local charities.

"At Regent Santa Monica Beach, we believe that luxury should also be purposeful,” said Claudine Espinoza, Director of Sales and Marketing at Regent Santa Monica Beach, one of the newest partner hotels. “Through the Visit California x Kind Traveler Every Stay Gives Back program, we’re proud to align our values with action—giving back to the Marine Mammal Care Center,

whose work in ocean conservation deeply resonates with our identity as a coastal destination. It’s a meaningful way for our guests to make a positive impact with every stay.”

TURN YOUR VACATION INTO A GIFT TO THE PLANET

Kind Traveler's Every Stay Gives Back program—founded by a woman-and-veteran-owned public benefit corporation—makes charitable giving part of every hotel stay. Regardless of how a stay is booked, a portion of the revenue supports vetted nonprofits in wildlife conservation, food security, disaster relief, and environmental restoration.

During their stay, guests receive access to live impact dashboards to see how their visit contributes to real-world change, fostering transparency, education, and inspiration to travel kindly.

HOW YOUR STAY MAKES A DIFFERENCE

• 91,652 ser vings of locally grown produce shared by Farm to Pantry in Sonoma County

• 1,932 students served with art

supplies via La Playa Centro Comunitario in Los Cabos

• 458 native seabirds rehabilitated by Wildlife Center of the North Coast (Oregon Coast)

150 trees planted with Visit San Luis Obispo’s Key for Trees program

FEATURED HOTEL AND CHARITY

PARTNERSHIPS

• The Sur frider MalibuLos Angeles Emergency Preparedness Foundation

• Regent Santa Monica Beach

– Marine Mammal

Care Center

• Westdrift Manhattan Beach

– Marine Mammal

Care Center

• Nonpareil Stays (Los Angeles)

- Wolf Connection

• The Bower Hotel (Coronado)

- Emerald Keepers

• Casa Cody & Acme House Co. (Palm Springs) - Friends of the Desert Mountains

• Coasting Home (Mendocino) – Redwood Coast Land Conservancy

• Mar Vista Farm & Cottages

(Mendocino) – Redwood Coast Land

• ConservancyNoyo Harbor Inn - Mendocino Land Trust

• Ojai Retreat & Inn - Ojai Retreat Cultural Center

• Geneseo Inn / JUST INN (Paso Robles) - Echo Shelter

• Dunton Hot Springs (CO)Bridge Shelter

• Clear Sky Resorts (UT) - Grand Staircase Escalante Partners

• Nobnocket Boutique Inn (MA) - Lagoon Pond Association

• Hale Akua Garden Farm (HI) - Leilani Farm Sanctuary

• Brentwood Bay Resort (Canada) - Power to Be

• Eko Patagonia (Chile)Fundación Renoval

• La Bella Palermo (Italy)Medicare Onlus

“At Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa, our deep connection to the Oregon Coast inspires us to be active stewards of its natural beauty and biodiversity,” said Will Farrow, Area Managing Director at Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa, A Noble House Resort. “We are proud that as

part of the Every Stay Gives Back program with Kind Traveler and the Oregon Coast Visitors Association, each guest stay helps protect injured and orphaned wildlife through our support of the Wildlife Center of the North Coast. This partnership allows our guests to make a meaningful difference simply by choosing to stay with us—fostering a more compassionate and sustainable future for Oregon’s coastal wildlife.”

CHOOSE A STAY THAT GIVES BACK

A recent New York Times report found that 71 per cent of travellers want to leave destinations better than they found them. Kind Traveler meets this demand by helping travellers create a positive impact through intentional stays.

"It's clear that travel can be a powerful catalyst for change," said Jessica Blotter, CEO and co-founder of Kind Traveler. "Through Every Stay Gives Back, we're reimagining hospitality to uplift communities and protect the planet."

Ellensburg and Beyond: Your Basecamp for a Peaceful Central Washington Escape

Tucked between the rugged beauty of the Cascade Mountains and the wide-open skies of the Kittitas Valley, Ellensburg, Washington, offers the perfect retreat for those looking to trade the hustle and bustle for something quieter and more meaningful.

Whether you're travelling by RV, car, or sprinter van, this mountain town welcomes you with wide-open Bureau of Land Management camping sites, cozy stays, and direct access to outdoor adventures. Wake up to crisp air and golden light before heading out to hike nearby Snoqualmie Pass, wander through the sagebrush of Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park, or roam the living history of Olmstead Place State Park.

Sip your way through the region’s emerging wine scene with art-inspired scenic tastings and farm-to-glass pours, then dine at one of Ellensburg’s local PNW-inspired restaurants.

Embrace small-town charm with a walking tour of historic

downtown, take on the barn quilt tour along backcountry roads, or retrace the steps of the iconic Northern Exposure series filmed in the area.

Where

and natural beauty

Design lives in the details here.

From the latte art at a local café to the curated window displays in downtown boutiques, Ellensburg pulses with creative energy and

is an official Washington State Creative District. Stop by to check out the vibrant murals, art galleries, and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes. The rolling hills position Ellensburg and Kittitas County as a whole as a place to find peace and calm.

THERE’S SO MUCH TO LOVE

When you visit Ellensburg, you’ll never feel out of place. Wherever you go, you’ll find our customer service is warm and welcoming, with a small-town personal touch. Restaurants serve fresh, well-crafted dishes that reflect the local flavours, and breweries offer small-batch beers in relaxed, thoughtfully designed spaces. Whether you're staying in a

with an opening performance under the stars. Weekend “perfs” add to the excitement, and by Labour Day Monday, the Championship Finals bring it all to a fun-filled close as the best of the best go head-to-head in a showdown of grit and glory. Plus, don’t miss the Kittitas County Fair, which brings carnival rides, farm exhibits, and a celebration of local heritage that families have cherished for generations. There’s no wrong time to visit Ellensburg—from art walks and live music nights to seasonal festivals and one of Washington’s top farmers markets, there’s something for everyone, every season. Pair that with the old-west hospitality of the city, and you’ll quickly see why Ellensburg is more

tre stretch passes secluded hamlets, campgrounds, and picnic areas, perfect for taking a pit stop to enjoy your surroundings. As well, winding through the Park is the Eel River, with perfect, kid-friendly swimming holes, and fishing areas.

Sport Fishing in Shelter Cove is one of California's premiere ocean fishing destinations. Sport fishing enthusiasts come for the salmon,

perch and can fish from the shore for perch or rockfish. Fishermen can also launch a boat from the cove, which Point Delgada protects from the northwesterly winds.

Sanctuary Forest is a land and water trust with a mission to conserve the Mattole River watershed and surrounding areas for wildlife habitat and intrinsic values in collaboration with the community.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon of

hole Scottish link golf course with spectacular Pacific Ocean views at every hole.

As the sun sets on your day's adventure, settle in for a world of flavour. Southern Humboldt County has two award-winning wineries and is home to California's most remote brewery. Whitethorn Winery is family-owned and offers tastings by appointment. Briceland Vineyards Winery is the second-

spectacular meeting of land and sea as mountains thrust straight out of the surf with King Peak (4,088 feet) only 4.8 kilometres from the ocean. The King Range NCA encompasses 68,000 acres along 56 kilometres of California's north coast.

MAKE IT AN ANNUAL TRADITION

With so much to do and see,

6 Expert Tips to Maintain Gut Health While Travelling RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER

Sometimes, the joys of travelling can come with unpleasant side effects—namely, stomach issues. Bloating, indigestion, constipation, and diarrhea are all common travel complaints.

“Travelling in general can just naturally disrupt GI function,” says registered dietitian Ethan Balk, clinical associate professor of nutrition at NYU and director of the Masters’ Programs in Nutrition and Dietetics.

Changes in routine and nutrition are the main factors that lead to GI distress while travelling, says Balk. Sleep disruption, not drinking enough water, and eating less nutritious and lower-fibre meals—especially more ultra-processed meals and snacks—can all contribute to an unbalanced gut, Balk says.

“Especially if you’re travelling in the United States, you’re more likely to eat more processed foods that are going to have less fibre, that are rich in salt and fat and sugar,” Balk says. “Those three nutrients sort of introduce a party to our intestine tract that can disrupt digestion.” Below, Balk provides tips to

keep your gut healthy and happy wherever you go.

STAY HYDRATED

Balk recommends bringing a reusable water bottle to fill in the airport—once you’re through security—and before the plane ride. Drinking enough water is especially important to help prevent and treat constipation while travelling, he says.

Balk also adds that despite the social media claims, you likely don’t need to bring electrolyte packets with you.

“Most people don’t need a whole lot of electrolyte replacement, it’s really just making sure you’re getting enough water,” he explains.

WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY

Be wary of traveller’s diarrhea, which is caused by eating or drinking contaminated food or water or not washing dirty hands before eating or touching your face, cautions Balk. He advises keeping your hands away from your mouth and face, and washing your hands frequently—maybe more so than you would normally.

Drinking plenty of water is also important should you end up with a case of traveller’s diarrhea, as it can quickly dehydrate you. Additionally, sleep is key, as that will help keep your immune system strong.

“If you’re tired and dehydrated and then you get a virus, that’s just the perfect storm,” Balk says.

BRING OVER-THECOUNTER MEDS

If you’re prone to GI issues, Balk recommends keeping some over-the-counter stomach medications on hand should you need them. That includes drugs like antidiarrheals (like Imodium), Pepto Bismol, antacids, and even probiotics.

“[Over-the-counter medications] can work wonders,” he says.

Balk recommends getting a probiotic that has at least 10 billion strains of bacteria and taking it a few days leading up to travel—but speak with your doctor before beginning any new supplement or medication.

ENJOY YOUR TRIP—BUT KEEP IT BALANCED Enjoy your vacation and the

Southern Humboldt County will surely become your family’s cherished tradition. Every Father’s Day weekend, come to celebrate the spirit of adventure at The Garberville Rodeo Parade and the Garberville Rodeo, annual gems in Southern Humboldt County. Stay for the whole week and immerse yourself in music and culture. The Mateel Community Center Summer Arts & Music Festival typically takes place the fourth weekend in June at the County Line Ranch—a beloved family event for over four decades. At the Southern Humboldt Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center, we are the trusted source for guiding you on your journey through our region. With years of experience and knowledge, we provide unparalleled support for local tourism. We are the first visitor's centre you come across when entering Humboldt from the south.

Visit garberville.org to let the adventure begin.

delicious food you find, but try to eat as balanced as you can. That means incorporating fibre into meals (think: whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) and going easy on foods high in fat, salt, and sugar.

SKIP SOCIAL MEDIA HACKS

While social media has plenty of travel hacks—like bringing along greens powders, dandelion tea, colostrum, and even chia seed water, Balk is skeptical that they will help your gut issues.

“If it seems kind of out of left field and there’s an expensive

price tag attached to it, it’s probably not going to do much,” he tells Fortune.

MOVE YOUR BODY “Don’t discount the effectiveness of physical activity,” Balk says. Walking around the airport and getting up and stretching on the plane are especially important. That can help counteract the issues that arise from keeping your body—and your GI tract—stagnant, like bloating and constipation. “If you’re moving then things are moving,” Balk says.

—Fortune via Reuters Connect

Base Camp Redding: Your Gateway to Northern California’s Natural Treasures

Calling our Canadian neighbours to the north! Now is the perfect time to come and visit the sunshine city of Redding, California!

Our Mediterranean climate offers those warm summers you’re looking for, but elevated by lush scenic greenery year-round! If forests, mountains, swimmable lakes, and small-town charm sound inviting, make Redding your next vacation destination. Start your journey in Redding as you explore the surrounding national and state parks, dozens of waterfalls, million-year-old caverns, and unique architectural wonders only found here, such as our famous Sundial Bridge, one of the largest working sundials in the world. Go deep inside one of the tallest gravity dams in the U.S., Shasta Dam. If you’re looking for a modern way to enjoy nature, try renting a pedal-assist bicycle and cruising along the scenic Sacramento National Recreation Trail.

With so much to explore, we recommend using Redding as

your base camp for adventure. If you plan on staying at least two nights or more, book your stay through ChooseRedding.com and receive instant rewards that can be used at restaurants, rentals, theatres, and various other fun activities! Where’s Redding? The charming town of Redding lies in the heart of upstate California. With Mt. Shasta and Shasta Lake to the north, Trinity Alps and Trinity River to the west, Lassen Volcanic National Park to the east, and family-owned wineries and vineyards to the south, the Redding area offers many unique attractions that will satisfy any wandering explorer. Redding is also ideal for group retreats, team building, company meetings, or large conferences. With many indoor and outdoor venues to choose from, you’re sure to make your next group event a success when you have it in Redding. Bring the pets when you come to Redding! As a pet-friendly

destination with various accommodating restaurants, lodging options, and walking trails, it will also be the trip of a lifetime for your furry companions!

Plan your trip at ChooseRedding.com , where you can view attractions, itineraries, and lodging, and check out our seasonal events. If you’re in the area, plan a stop by the Anderson California Welcome Center, which is staffed with friendly local experts who are eager to help. Open seven days a week and conveniently located along one of California’s most well-travelled highways: Interstate 5. You can also get your questions answered by talking directly with a staff member by calling 530-365-7500.

Experience endless adventure, scenic natural beauty, and friendly hospitality by making new memories in a destination filled with wonder around every corner. We look forward to seeing you in Redding, California!

Enjoy All That Juneau Has to Offer At The Jorgenson House Cooking Classes

Meet one of Juneau, Alaska's most luxurious accommodations. This exclusive boutique inn offers the perfect retreat with spectacular mountain views, manicured gardens, luxurious accommodations and easy access to all the adventures that Juneau has to offer. It is located within walking distance of Juneau’s business and shopping districts, restaurants, hiking trails and historical sights. Whether you’re travelling for adventure, a romantic getaway, business meetings, or a solo trek, you will experience the hospitality enjoyed by celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey and famous Chefs Emeril Lagasse, Gordon Ramsay and Guy Fieri.

STAY IN COMFORT AND STYLE

After a day of adventures, you can retreat to the luxurious comfort of this boutique inn, originally built in 1915 following the Klondike Gold Rush. The property has remained family-owned and carefully renovated to preserve its historic charm. Each suite is thoughtfully designed

to provide comfort and unparalleled amenities.

In addition to impeccable lodging, The Jorgenson House is pleased to offer premier culinary experiences with local

expert Chefs, such as cooking classes, sumptuous breakfasts and private gourmet dinners. You will enjoy a private and exclusive retreat with in-house catering that specializes in

custom, fresh dishes.

The Jorgenson House has been recognized for ‘Best of Juneau’ and ‘Most Romantic Alaska Destination.’

SUMPTUOUS FRESH

ALASKA SEAFOOD

COOKING CLASSES

The Jorgenson House’s Wild Alaska Cooking Classes are a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure for seasoned home cooks and food lovers alike. No matter your experience level, these classes are designed to bring the best of Alaska’s seafood to your plate, tasting as you go.

Led by an expert local chef in a modern, open-air studio kitchen, you’ll learn how to prepare wild-caught seafood from the waters of Southeast Alaska, then enjoy a Chef-prepared meal, special for you. As you learn to prepare seafood dishes, you’ll also pick up insider tips, techniques and seasonings to recreate these delicious meals at home.

It’s an unforgettable class that blends learning with the simple FUN of creating delicious dishes, and the intimate class sizes

make it the perfect activity for families, friends, or even solo travellers looking to meet fellow food enthusiasts.

ADVENTURE IN EVERY DIRECTION

If you wish to explore Juneau to its fullest, their concierges are always available to assist with opportunities to explore the most enviable excursions. Where else can you see an iceberg, a bear and a whale, all on the same day? And don’t miss a visit to the stunning fjords of Tracy Arm Wilderness Area or the expansive Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Feeling adventurous? Experience Alaska from the sky with a helicopter tour that lands you on a thousand-year-old glacier or dog sledding with a team of incredible canine athletes. Experience seaplane tours and visit brown bears in their natural environment. And hiking, biking and nature tours! You will find all special requests are welcome. Book your stay and let your Alaskan adventure begin! Visit jorgensonhouse.com

Uncover the Magic: Discover These 3 Hidden Gems of Europe

Europe has long been a favourite holiday destination filled with iconic, must-see cities, including Paris, Rome and London. But beyond those classic, culturally important centres, Europe offers a diverse array of options for travellers. Here are three European hidden gems to consider for your next vacation.

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

Copenhagen boasts historic architecture, a decades-old pedestrianized downtown core and an inner-city harbour that’s clean enough to swim in. Take a boat tour through the city’s canals, enjoy the amusement park rides at Tivoli Gardens and sample open-faced smørrebrød sandwiches.

DAY TRIP IDEA: THE VIKING SHIP MUSEUM

The museum houses five 1,000-year-old Viking ships, plus a variety of Viking-themed exhibits and workshops. It’s located in Roskilde, less than an hour from Copenhagen by car or train.

MILAN, ITALY

Italy’s second-most populous city is the country’s capital of fashion and design. Explore ancient Roman ruins, people-watch—with a coffee or spritz in hand—in one of the many medieval squares, and visit one of the largest cathedrals in the world. Art lovers won’t want to miss Leonardo DaVinci’s famed Last Supper.

DAY TRIP IDEA: LAKE COMO

Roughly two hours from Milan by train or car, visiting the charming villages and breathtaking villas that dot Lake Como will make you see why celebrities like George Clooney regularly holiday there.

VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Vienna is one of the great European capitals. Take a cruise down the Danube River, catch a performance at the opera house and admire the historic buildings, including the majestic Schonbrunn Palace.

DAY TRIP IDEA: SALZBURG

At about three hours by train or car, it’s a long day trip to get to Salzburg’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But the views and stops along the way make it well-worth the journey.

Explore Logan, Utah for Outdoor Adventure, Foodie Trek and Sizzling Summer Fun

Logan, Utah, is an undiscovered treasure with the ideal blend of outdoor adventure, a charming historic downtown, live theatre and musical performances, a living history of the American West, and so much more.

Logan is perfectly situated between two mountain ranges on the most scenic way from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

First, your hotel is only a 10-minute drive from the national forest, and exploring the beauty of Logan Canyon National Scenic Byway is at the top of your list. You can hike, picnic, mountain bike, canoe, fish, bird-watch, rent horses or side-by-side RZRs, take beautiful pictures and even rock climb. The 69-kilometre Logan Canyon National Scenic Byway features dramatic limestone cliffs, the Logan River and pine forests and alpine trees on the way to the breathtaking turquoise waters of Bear Lake. Then, discover why each

summer Logan becomes Utah’s Heart of the Arts with three live-performance theatres in the historic theatre district and two on the campus of Utah State University booked with professional performances. Free hour-long concerts every summer weekday downtown.

Logan will host more than 150 live performing arts events from mid-June through August. That’s not to mention

community festivals, a giant classic car show, and rodeos. The new outdoor Laub Plaza downtown features a splash pad, live performances, fire pits and largerthan-life games like checkers, chess and Jenga. Stroll our charming rodeos and downtown Logan’s brand-new plaza, cafes, unique specialty shops and theatres.

Logan is the largest city in the beautiful agricultural Cache Valley, and because of that

heritage, dozens of food products are made or grown here and shipped out all over the world.

Taste your way through the valley and sample Gossner cheese and boxed milk, Aggie ice cream (made for more than a hundred years), internationally renowned Caffe Ibis coffee, Pepperidge Farm cookies and Goldfish crackers, gourmet honey products at Cox Honeyland, hand-dipped Bluebird chocolates and more.

They’re all part of our selfguided Foodie Trek and Signature Products Tour. The Gardener's Market is held every Saturday morning at the historic courthouse midMay through mid-October. The courthouse is home to the Cache Valley Visitors Bureau and Gift Shop with a friendly and knowledgeable team and a local gift shop that can’t be beat.

You’ll never forget a chance to step back in time at the American West Heritage Center, a 65-hectare outdoor living history museum. Experience the Old West hands-on and learn about mountain men, farmers and pioneers. Throw hatchets, milk the cow or play pioneer games. Watch the blacksmith at work, take a wagon or pony ride, see the bison, make arts and crafts, listen to stories and more.

Make your summer sizzle by visiting Logan. Check us out at explorelogan.com for area info and a calendar of events.

Rails Through the Wild: Reliving the Spirit of the Klondike Gold Rush

Built in 1898 to open the Klondike region of Yukon Territory to gold seekers, this narrow-gauge railway, initially stretching from Skagway, Alaska, to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, was completed in 1900, just in time for the Klondike Gold Rush to be over. It took the labour of 35,000 men, using only black blasting powder and crude tools to battle the elements and treacherous landscapes, to hew out the 177-kilometre narrow gauge line. The railway hauled freight and passengers for over 80 years before closing down in 1982 after a dramatic fall in world ore prices. But White Pass & Yukon Route (WP&YR) persevered and reopened its doors six years later as “The Scenic Railway of the World,” providing rail excursions to tourists from all over the globe. In 1994, WP&YR was named an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, joining the likes of the Statue of Liberty and the Panama Canal in this prestigious honour.

Today, guests experience

the breathtaking panorama of mountains, glaciers, trestles and tunnels from the comfort of vintage rail cars. Hear a fully narrated tour of the White Pass featuring tales of villainous gun-slingers, good-time girls, or would-be gold seekers struggling towards the Yukon, and see with your own eyes the untouched, pristine beauty of the Pacific Coastal Mountains.

Trips depart from Skagway, AK, Fraser, BC, Carcross, YT, and Whitehorse, YT, between early May and late September each year. The WP&YR is Alaska’s most popular shore excursion and a favourite on many Alaska and Yukon travellers’ must-see lists.

Don’t miss these excursions in Alaska’s scenic railway of the world!

WHITE PASS SUMMIT EXCURSION

Relax in vintage passenger coaches as you retrace the original route to the White Pass Summit, passing Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point and Dead Horse Gulch.

Enjoy a breathtaking panorama

of mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels, trestles and historic sites. See the original Klondike Trail of ‘98 worn into the rocks, a permanent tribute to the thousands of souls who passed this way in search of fortune.

BENNETT SCENIC

JOURNEY

Travel just over 108 kilometres by train between Skagway, AK, and Carcross, YT, along the same

route the Klondike stampeders traversed in 1898! Couple that with a motor coach tour along the scenic Klondike Highway to complete your 193-kilometre round-trip excursion.

Enjoy a scenic Bennett, BC, only accessible via the White Pass train or by hiking the world-famous Chilkoot Trail. Experience the 1910 Bennett Station and stroll through our historic museum. Take the selfguided walk along the trails and tour the historic Gold Rush townsite.

LAKE BENNETT STEAM EXCURSION

Travel back in time to the golden age of railroading aboard the pride of the White Pass fleet, Engine #73. Pulled by a 1947 Baldwin steam locomotive, you will travel to historic Lake Bennett in the Coastal Mountain Range. Step into history on the Chilkoot Trail or visit the 1910 Bennett station house with interpretive displays and a short video depicting the heyday of this isolated spot. Learn about the history of the Klondike Gold Rush as you pass through tunnels and over trestles to Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and the White Pass summit. Catch the incredible views through large picture windows on this limitedcapacity excursion, offering the unique experience of riding an authentic steam train on the Scenic Railway of the World.

Plan your trip today at wpyr.com

Where Wild Hearts Meet: Elsa the Mountain Goat’s Journey to the North

In the remote wilderness of northern British Columbia, on the Traditional Territory of the Witset First Nation, a newborn mountain goat—known

as a kid—was swept away by a mighty river in a spring flood. Orphaned and vulnerable, her survival seemed improbable, yet a powerful story of community

and compassion began to unfold through the animal's resilience and the care of those who intervened. They named her Elsa. Thanks to a united effort between the individuals who found her, the Northern Lights Wildlife Society in Smithers, B.C., the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, and Indigenous youth from the Yukon First Nation Education Directorate, Elsa made her way to a new forever home in the Yukon. Her story is more than just a rescue—it’s a powerful example of what’s possible when people come together to care for the natural world.

COME FOR THE BEAUTY,

STAY FOR THE PURPOSE

Elsa now lives at the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, the Traditional Territory of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and Ta’an Kwäch’än Council. A 700-acre wildscape, the Preserve is a biological community to some of Canada’s most iconic wildlife, including commanding moose, ancient

muskoxen, and majestic lynx.

It is more than just a place to see wildlife. The Preserve is an impactful, accessible landscape that cultivates reciprocal, respectful relationships between people and the natural world. It’s a refuge where nature offers solace.

RECONNECT WITH NATURE, REKINDLE YOUR

RESPONSIBILITY

The Yukon is a land of extremes, where endless summer days contrast with long winter nights. These dramatic conditions have shaped the people who live here and have profoundly influenced the wildlife in fascinating ways, from the thick, insulating fur of the caribou to the incredible migratory journeys of birds and mammals alike. Each adaptation tells a story of survival, resilience and the deep connection between life and land in the North.

The Preserve champions conservation through thoughtful stewardship and meaningful

connection to the land.

Through immersive educational encounters, guided experiences, and stories of wildlife rehabilitation, we’re encouraged to think more deeply about our interconnectedness with nature. Answer the call of the wild and visit the Yukon Wildlife Preserve. Stand in the presence of wild beauty. Witness the power and grace of wildlife, and walk with humility and a renewed sense of wonder and responsibility for our shared world.

Elsa’s story is a reminder that protecting the wild doesn’t take superpowers—only compassion, a lifelong curiosity about the natural world, and the courage to act together. Can’t make the trip? You can still be a hero for the wild. Donate today and help heal, protect, and celebrate the spirit and magic of the North.

Visit yukonwildlife.ca to learn more and take your first step toward a wilder, more connected life.

Into the Northern Wild: Adventures Along the Alaska Highway

With the warmer weather upon us, it’s time to embrace new adventures in the great outdoors— and the Northern Rockies are the perfect place to begin. Tucked into the northeastern corner of British Columbia, this region is defined by dramatic mountains, jade-green lakes, and welcoming towns. The stretch of highway between Fort Nelson, B.C., and Watson Lake, YT, invites travellers into a landscape rich with opportunity.

Nicknamed the “Serengeti of the North,” the region is renowned for its incredible wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of wood bison, caribou, elk, bears, stone sheep, and countless bird species.

of World War II and remains one of North America’s most iconic wilderness routes. Whether you're road-tripping or venturing off the beaten path, the Northern Rockies are a destination like no other—alive with nature, history, and the promise of adventure.

SPRING INTO THE WILD

The Alaska Highway winds through true animal territory—a natural northern wilderness where humans are the visitors. Here, the wildlife has the right of way. Iconic species like the wood bison—the largest land mammal in North America, weighing up to 2,000 pounds— frequently share the road, and

lush, warm-water ecosystem. This unique environment supports a range of species, including some found nowhere else.

The region also encompasses the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area (M-KMA), one of B.C.’s largest and most ecologically significant wilderness zones— roughly the size of Ireland. This globally important area protects diverse wildlife and ecosystems while honouring the cultures that call it home. Whether you stick to the highway or strike out (on your own or with a guide) by hike, paddle, plane, or horse, adventure in the Northern Rockies is as wild as it is unforgettable.

and natural beauty. From rugged mountains to wide-open vistas, the journey offers some of Canada’s most photogenic highway stretches. Be sure to pull over in safe pull-outs to snap photos, stretch your legs, and take in the views.

No matter the season, preparation is key. Carry the proper equipment, plan for changing weather, and visit the Fort Nelson Visitor Centre for upto-date information and local tips. With so much to discover, give yourself time to stop, explore, and fully experience the northern wild.

Learn more at

OF WHITE PASS &

YUKON ROUTE RAILWAY

RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER

PRISMA: Music Meets Magic on the Coast of BC

A remote town with a population under 20,000 and access by ferry or short flight only might not seem the obvious setting for an internationally renowned classical music experience, but every June, the coastal town of Powell River, British Columbia, comes to life with music.

It’s all because of the Pacific Region International Summer Music Association, better known as PRISMA: a globally respected training academy that hosts a beloved summer festival, which creates an opportunity to hear and engage with world-class musicians locally.

LAUNCHING MUSICAL

CAREERS

Founded in 2012, PRISMA focuses on the culture behind the music. This means connecting aspiring musicians with the right mentors and fostering a sense of cultural belonging through powerful musical experiences.

What makes it happen is the PRISMA Academy, the training ground for the world’s next great musicians. It’s a summer program that brings together 80 promising young musicians from around the

globe to receive guidance from internationally acclaimed faculty and real-world training that strengthens their professional performance.

These musicians may not know each other when they arrive, but within days, they’re performing as a unified orchestra, forming friendships and artistic partnerships that last a lifetime. PRISMA has mentored more than 800 students from over 50 countries, and many now hold principal chairs in major symphonies or thriving solo and teaching careers.

But without donor support, many of these students wouldn’t get here.

Thanks to the Musical Merit Fund, tuition, accommodation, and meals are covered for dozens of participants each year. In an ideal world, every student would attend PRISMA on a full scholarship. That vision requires an annual fundraising goal of more than $100,000 and the support of individuals who believe in levelling the playing field for talent.

THE MAGIC OF THE MUSIC

The PRISMA Festival draws over

5,000 audience members each year for 10 days of unforgettable programming. The festival features full symphonic concerts, chamber performances, student recitals, and public masterclasses, with signature events like PRISMA on the Beach, a free outdoor concert that attracts over 1,500 people.

This year’s lineup is equally unforgettable, featuring Mahler’s Symphony No. 6 and Kindertotenlieder, Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 6, and the world premiere of Alexander Mosolov’s Symphony No. 3, unearthed by PRISMA’s artistic director, Arthur Arnold, from a Moscow library.

The music is moving on its own, but the camaraderie of the art lovers in attendance, hailing from all over the world, makes this festival one of Canada’s most impressive artistic retreats. Visitors from Vancouver and beyond make the trip year after year, many even returning as donors so that future generations can experience what they have.

WHY IT MATTERS

PRISMA’s next act is already underway: Construction has begun

on a 5,000-square-foot Arts & Culture Hub, a permanent space for education, performance, and creative community programming set to open in 2026. With $1.2 million raised, PRISMA is seeking support to close a $150,000 gap and to fund a future-phase purchase of a concert grand piano (valued at $200,000).

The vision for this space has already captured the attention of funders focused on music, tourism, and economic development.

PRISMA’s current donors know that their contributions make it possible for the show to go on. For new donors, supporting PRISMA means joining something meaningful and lasting by helping open doors for students who couldn’t otherwise afford this level of mentorship. Investing in live music is an investment in the community and ensures Canada’s musical legacy continues.

Come for the music, stay for the magic, and leave knowing you helped make it possible. Learn more or make a contribution at prismafestival.com

The Only Dirty Laundry You’ll Want to Share This Summer

The next time someone asks if you have any plans coming up, tell them you’re doing the Dirty Laundry.

That way, it won’t be a lie when you end up sitting on the sunsoaked patio of Summerland’s Dirty Laundry Winery, which is celebrating spring and summer with the return of its popular patio and restaurant, both of which are open for the season.

Visitors can now enjoy tastings of award-winning wines, local craft beer and meals on the gorgeous patio daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Red Iron Grille, open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., offers returning favourites like Forno oven pizzas and BBQ, along with a fresh slate of seasonal offerings.

“We are excited to welcome our patio regulars and new faces to the winery this summer and look forward to an action-packed summer,” Dirty Laundry wine shop and restaurant manager Kristen Thurlin says. “Our menu offers something for everyone—a brand new line up of locally crafted beers and ciders as well as returning fan favourites plus fun espresso drinks, new merchandise and of

course those misters cooling down our patio when the temperatures start to climb.”

The restaurant offers a diverse lineup of Italian-style Forno pizzas, with options for meat lovers, vegetarians and spice seekers. Highlights include the hearty Red Iron Special, loaded with meats, and the Veggie Vixen, packed with pesto and Mediterranean veggies. The BBQ menu is just as mouth-

watering, featuring housecrafted meats smoked with locally sourced Canadian maple and cherry wood. Featuring Alberta beef brisket, pork shoulder and chicken thighs, each dish is carefully prepared to maximize flavour.

Guests are encouraged to sip, savour and socialize as they take in the vineyard views. Wine club members can reserve patio tables and enjoy exclusive early

access to new dishes, as well as guaranteed seating throughout the summer. For those not yet part of the wine club, now is the perfect time to join.

Dirty Laundry Winery is rolling out a full slate of summer events designed to pair great wine with memorable evenings on their scenic patio. Among the highlights is the return of Wine & Brine Lobster Nights, where guests can enjoy fresh Maritime

lobster dinners on July 24, Aug. 7 and Aug. 28. Advance purchase is required. The summer also features Sangria Sundays from June 29 to Aug. 31, offering complimentary live music and Dirty Laundry’s signature sangrias every Sunday evening. Finally, the popular Blues & BBQ night returns on July 31, featuring smoked ribs and chicken alongside live blues music by Penticton’s own Gerry and the Blueshounds. With limited availability and high demand, guests are encouraged to secure their tickets early for these signature summer experiences. Tickets for all events will be available through the Dirty Laundry website on May 15. To stay up to date on all the latest happenings at Dirty Laundry Winery, register for the newsletter online and follow along on Instagram and Facebook at @dirtylaundrywinery. Wait no longer—it’s time to do the Dirty Laundry.

For more information, visit dirtylaundry.ca

Where the Wild Things Are

Your Guide to Riding Nelson and Kootenay Lake

A WEALTH OF TRAILS

Nelson and Kootenay Lake might be famous for their top spot on B.C.’s Powder Highway, but come summer, there’s a whole different bounty on offer. The dense stretch of wilderness draped over the Purcell and Selkirk Mountains also boasts a hidden empire of trails that is a mountain bike mecca for those in the know.

Gifted with supernaturally grippy soils, Trailforks counts 261 mountain bike trails in Nelson alone, with burgeoning networks also emerging in Kaslo, Crawford Bay, and Riondel: a secret wealth of singletrack tracing ancient rock slabs and loamy forest floors for thousands of vertical feet before spilling onto idyllic sandy beaches.

Like the eclectic Queen City of Kootenays, the riding here is a mix of old and new: traditional, natural downhill trails tamped by decades of fat tires and modern pedal-friendly tracks with flawless jump lines and miles of blue flow. It’s everything you can find in a bike park, accessible throughout the world’s largest inland temperate rainforest.

Wine,

Start with the Bottoms Up climb trail on Nelson’s morning mountain to experience the ecstasy of Rhythm and Blues, which is also an adaptive trail (the Kootenays are the global leader in adaptive

riding) or test your mettle on the perennial DH classic Power Slave, amongst the old-growth cedars high above. Pedal directly from town along the Great Northern Trail, reclaimed from the railroad, to link into the Mountain Station

and Svoboda networks.

Maximize laps by shuttling the Kokanee system, where three-time Red Bull Rampage winner Kurt Sorge honed his skills, and then find a warm stretch of sand for the afternoon at the provincial park below by the same name.

Take the longest free ferry in the world from Balfour to Crawford Bay to hit up Tam O Tiger for a surprising, remote, machine-built wonder. Or make your way to Kaslo’s Friendly Giant, where you’ll find 4,400 vertical feet of climbing and descending for all abilities. Time your visit with the Kaslo Jazz Festival to experience the iconic floating stage, along with top acts from across North America.

A KOOTENAY RESET

Summer is the season of water. A mountain bike trip to the West Kootenay region goes hand-inhand with morning swims, afternoon paddle-board sessions, and endless affordable camping options, from provincial parks to BC Rec Sites. Or stay in one

of the many Victorian B&Bs or hotels that make Nelson and Kaslo architectural standouts in Western Canada.

Soak in Ainsworth Hot Springs to bring your legs and arms back to life, or cool off at more than a dozen public beaches spanning the lake.

You’ll need all the hearty calories you can get to keep up with the riding options. Tap into seasonal takes on global cuisine with more restaurants per capita than Vancouver, San Francisco, and even Manhattan, with fivestar chefs from across the globe travelling to the region to tenure in its famed food scene. Nelson also happens to be a global hub for world music and culture, with venues, theatres and galleries lining Baker Street and beyond.

But if a simple burger at a pub or brewery is more your speed, you’ll find that too, right alongside a burning desire to come back every summer.

Book your trip today at nelsonkootenaylake.com

Wilderness, and Wonder Meet at Nighthawk Vineyards

At Nighthawk Vineyards, every bottle tells a story, and their impressiv e catalogue of award-winning wines doubles as an endless trove of delightful tales. Nighthawk Vineyards is a true Okanagan original: family-owned, thoughtfully designed, and deeply rooted in local pride. This boutique winery offers one of the most immersive wine country experiences in British Columbia, with a distinctive terroir that contributes to some of the finest grape growing conditions,

and family members who infuse passion into every bottle.

TASTE THE LAND

Voted “Best Outdoor Dining Experience in BC” four years in a row and recently named “Favourite Winery” in the Best of the South Okanagan 2024, Nighthawk knows that there’s no better pairing than good wine and great food— unless you add an unbeatable view. Here, wine tasting is both an art and an experience. Guests are invited to sample a curated selection of handcrafted wines,

with tastings available indoors or on the vineyard-view patio (weather permitting). Walk-ins are welcome, and pre-booking is encouraged for groups.

To pair with your glass, try a wood-fired pizza, fresh from their Portuguese oven, or linger longer over a seasonal dish at the Vineyard Kitchen & Patio, which offers lunch, happy hour, and dinner service—all served with a side of panoramic valley views. And if you prefer to picnic among the vines, the pizzas are available to go during lunch hours, too.

STAY AMONG THE VINES

With on-site vineyard access, nearby hiking and cycling trails, kayaking, and the charming Okanagan Falls beach just five km away, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the region. And after a day of hiking, cycling, kayaking, or wine tasting, there’s no better way to unwind than in a private tenthouse retreat tucked above the valley.

Nighthawk takes glamping to a new level, offering guests the chance to stay overnight in nature without sacrificing comfort. Their signature Tenthouse Suites—eco-friendly, solar-powered, and custom-designed—offer an elevated retreat quite literally nestled in the trees. With king-sized beds made of local "Medevil Walnut," private decks with outdoor soaking tubs, and original Okanagan artwork, every suite invites rest, romance, and renewal.

delivered to your door • Private ensuite with rain shower and hardwood finishes

• Custom amenities and peaceful views of the lake and vineyard

These suites have all the benefits of modern comfort combined with the knowledge that your stay leaves nothing behind but footprints and memories. While pets aren’t allowed in the accommodations, nearby pet resorts mean your furry companions can enjoy their own Okanagan holiday, too.

Guests can also inquire about private dinners during their stay to really make their visit feel like a personalized retreat—a perfect option for a romantic escape! The winery also offers vineyard tours and curated wine club memberships for those who want to take a piece of the mag-

Plenty Canada Hemispheric Indigenous Work

Plenty Canada is dedicated to bringing together Indigenous and Western knowledge systems for the protection and restoration of Indigenous cultures and communities. We believe that as Native communities strengthen and thrive, the whole world benefits.

Our commitment is to the Indigenous spirit of cultural revitalization and to the building of economic capacity within our communities. As an Indigenousled organization, we recognize that humans are one species among many; we are guided by natural law to care for our children and to consider our responsibilities to the next seven generations.

Throughout the Western Hemisphere, Indigenous communities have focused on improving the dire economic circumstances facing their peoples.

A strong call for community leadership focuses on strengthening local self-sufficiency in agriculture, traditional health and economic potential. The idea is to restrengthen the Native communities’ cultural and economic self-determination.

Problem: impacts from climate change are leading to shifting rain patterns that exacerbate heat and drought seasons. The issues of water, its catchment, utilization and eco-enhancing drainage are paramount. Native farming communities have asked for assistance in accessing solution-oriented sources and resources.

Indigenous agricultural development supports many productive traditional skills useful to communities of people. Indigeneity appreciates and values the home medicinal knowledge, including traditional midwifery, as well as healing practices of herbal and massage-bone-structure (“hueseros”) practitioners. The ancestral weaving

is particularly strong among our partnering communities in Guatemala and Peru. One focus: Indigenous culinary skills—the culture of “from the garden to the table.” Self-reliant traditional and contemporary crafts, such as basketry and ceramics, sewing and embroidery in the production of wearables, all useful skills that build community.

MAYA GUATEMALA:

CULTURE-WEAVING

OUR PEOPLE

Maya-Guatemala—a Plenty Canada partner—supports the work of people who uphold the preservation of cultural values and traditional knowledge. Dozens of elder women of the Maya Q’eqchi’ people, traditional weavers, are teaming up with young women to safeguard that ancestral knowledge, “uniting in defense of our beliefs and values that roots us in our Mother Earth, the Mountains and even the cosmos,” according to Maria Leonor Teni de Leon (Maya-Q’eqchi’), project director.

They are reweaving the family networks within that ancestral tradition. Their indigenous way of resilience restrengthens kinship relations that are guided by reciprocity. Catalina Xo, a community elder and leader, expressed that the weaving tradition in itself is a way of life. “The more ancient weaving patterns carry stories and symbols important to our people,” said Catalina.

Among the elder weavers are midwives and healers of various types, many with important traditional culinary skills. The younger women assist their elders in their daily work in the corn and bean gardens, and in the gathering and preparation of medicinal plants.

“We take stock of our elders

and can see that many are marginalized, the older women, many widowed; these are our treasures, and they are often living in severe poverty with very poor housing,” said Teni.

Climate change is felt. Hurricanes cause widespread flooding, damaging the foundations of many houses. The project’s work in home repairs revealed a serious need of upgraded water management, as contamination was impacting health in the communities. The project has organized an active, community-based team of workers, engineers and others who are working successfully on these water issues.

Director Leonor’s circle trained in available traditional and contemporary technologies for house construction using local materials and sustainability skills. The specialized team has gathered impressive expertise in appropriate and indigenous construction of superlative water catchment and drainage systems.

ANDEAN MOUNTAINS: A QUECHUA COMMUNITY REACHES OUT

Near Cuzco, the heart of Indigenous Peru, Plenty Canada partners with a Quechua ancestral community of considerable traditional leadership value. Master weavers and artisans, this Quechua community of llama herders and potato farmers leads a valley of communities in the famed Potato Park of Andean Peru. Elders strongly guard their traditional institutions, particularly the ancient Council of Elders called Wachu, which conducts community feasts and ceremonies. A treasure of ancient wisdom, this Andean Indigenous (“originario”) community safeguards several

important ancient sites dated at 5,000 years or more. Quechua speakers are expert farmers, and the traditional Andean reciprocity system, or Ayni, continues to be an intricate part of the culture.

More recently, Chawaytiri has prepared housing and activities for receiving visitors and tourists seeking to immerse in a genuine and participatory Andean experience. “Come visit with our Indigenous people,” says Elder Lucio Ylla Mesa, “Our old ways are still important and good for us.”

CARIBBEAN INDIGENOUS: TRADITIONAL COMMUNITIES CUBA

Plenty Canada’s “Caribbean Indigeneity—Values and Knowledge” is based in the remote mountain and coastal region of eastern Cuba. It partners with communities of Taino-guajiro (rural) Indigenous families under the leadership of a traditional cacique (chief), women elders, and a new generation of leaders.

Cuba’s Indigenous population has been marginalized from contemporary history, even considered extinct in many national histories. In fact, it has been ‘hiding in plain sight,’ and it is now re-emerging and reconnecting as an extended Native community of related families.

Since 1974, Francisco (Panchito) Ramírez, elder of this core community of Cuban Indian people at Caridad de los Indios, Guantanamo Province, has led his people to “reweave” the families, to unite once again.

The Gran Familia people, marginalized through most of the 20th century, are now in a serious process of self-actualization. The main objective of our project is to assist this self-actualization.

CARIB COMMUNITY: CANOE AS A WAY OF LIFE

For Plenty Canada’s Kaligano (Carib) partners in the Caribbean island of Dominica, the art of canoe making provides a living, and it is a way of life.

Plenty supports Kaligano Elders, expert fishermen who are committed to passing on the complex set of skills required. From the selection of proper trees and their ceremonial cutting, to the skill-sensitive methods for carving, firing and cooling, much culture passes in shaping and presenting a sea-worthy canoe. The young people are enthusiastic, and elders are working confidently, teaching the tradition to a new generation.

GOOD MIND GRAPPLING

Twin wrestlers from Akwesasne Mohawk Reservation, national Canadian champions Phillip and Thomas Barreiro use the Art of Grappling to promote self-esteem and mutual empathy among First Nations youth in several communities.

"Plenty Canada’s work in Canada includes supporting the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Network and the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Network to ensure that Indigenous Peoples and their knowledge systems are included in achieving shared goals and maintaining the UNESCO standards."

"Please assist Plenty Canada by supporting its vital work. To learn more and to donate, www.plentycanada.com/donate" Contact Plenty Canada at: info@plentycanada.com and (613) 278-2215.