Boulevard Magazine, Victoria June/July 2022

DECEMBER 2020JUNE / JANUARY I JULY 2022 2021

VICTORIA LIFE AT ITS FINEST

A W orld of

POSSIBILITIES

WILD FLOWER Puffy sleeves, full skirts and wild west fashion

GET YOUR BRAIN IN GEAR The growing interest in brain health

METAMORPHOSIS Old meets new in this sleek upgrade of a century-old home

DESIGN + BUILD + ENJOY

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CONTENTS 28

58 FEATURES

38 Photo by Jody Beck Interior of a renovated, century-old Fairfield home. Construction by Green Island Builders; interior design by Brooke Hatfield Design.

58

By Ellie Shortt

WILD FLOWER Fashion in the wild west

By Sarah D’Arcey

64

GET YOUR BRAIN IN GEAR The growing interest in brain health

By Jane Zatylny

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NOURISH YOUR NOGGIN Creating food for the brain

By Angela Cowan

HOT PROPERTIES

8

90

Old meets new in beautiful Fairfield reno

On the Cover

38

METAMORPHOSIS

100

WALKS AND WINE IN MADEIRA A visit to the world’s top island destination

By Suzanne Morphet

38

106

18

DEPARTMENTS

10

CONTRIBUTORS

12

EDITOR’S LETTER The best way to give a speech (in writing)

By Susan Lundy

14

22

On the move

28

16

By Lia Crowe

18

32

GOOD TASTE Wunderbar!

Eva Schnitzelhaus

IN STUDIO

By Tess van Straaten

106

By Angela Cowan

WEEKENDER

108

SPOTLIGHT Down to a fine art: Gallerist reflects on 25 years

NARRATIVE March of the critters

By Susan Lundy

48

SECRETS AND LIVES Caitlin McKenzie

Go west coast: The Spirit Loop

LIFE.STYLE.ETC. Ryan Messer

By Kaisha Scofield

By John Atkinson

Calm horizon

BUSINESS CLASS Family business: Confortis thrive as a family and as work mates

Charles Campbell’s world of possibilities

DESIGN NOTES

By Janice Jefferson

54

WELL AND GOOD

By Susan Lundy

112

BEHIND THE STORY

By Darren Hull

By Lauren Kramer

By Jane Mundy boulevardmagazines.com |

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9

contributors V I C T O R I A L I F E AT I T S F I N E S T

“When Brooke Hatfield and Green

JODY BECK

PHOTOGRAPHER METAMORPHOSIS

PAGE 38

Island Builders collaborate on a project, I know documenting it is going to be a pleasure. Brooke has a unique ability to incorporate fabrics, textures and materials into her designs that fit within the context of the architecture. The subtle touches in this project lean towards a modern and clean aesthetic, yet embrace a rustic tone which is authentic and warm. Green Island has an intentional and thoughtful construction process paired with a high level of detail and precision. The Bond Street project is a testament to how good collaborations result in outstanding work.” Jody is an architectural and interiors photographer, capturing the work of architects, builders and designers in Victoria and Vancouver.

“For the fashion shoot in this

SARAH D’ARCEY

issue of Boulevard, I went back to my roots, having grown up in the interior of British Columbia on a farm. We packed up our fashion trunks and headed west to The Hatching Post in West Kelowna, offering the optimal saloon backdrop for our fashion story, with femininity and flair shining through.” Sarah is a celebrity fashion stylist and is known for her exceptional creativity and attention to detail.

J U NE | J U LY 2 02 2

BOULEVARD GROUP Mario Gedicke PUBLISHER 250.891.5627

info@blvdmag.ca MANAGING EDITOR Susan Lundy ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lia Crowe CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lily Chan DESIGN Michelle Gjerde Tammy Robinson Kelsey Boorman ADVERTISING Mario Gedicke

Vicki Clark

CONTRIBUTING John Atkinson WRITERS Angela Cowan

Lia Crowe Sarah D’Arcey Janice Jefferson Lauren Kramer Susan Lundy Suzanne Morphet Jane Mundy Kaisha Scofield Ellie Shortt Tess van Straaten Jane Zatylny

ILLUSTRATION Sierra Lundy

CONTRIBUTING Jody Beck PHOTOGRAPHERS Lia Crowe

STYLIST WILD FLOWER

PAGE 58

Don Denton Darren Hull

CIRCULATION & Marilou Pasion DISTRIBUTION 604.542.7411

“Madeira surprised me in the best

SUZANNE MORPHET

of ways. For an island less than half the size of Maui, it offers a fascinating variety of experiences, along with a culture all its own. This unique sense of place and fierce independence comes from being cut off from the European mainland for centuries, yet being on the trade route of the early explorers. Its gentle subtropical climate is a bonanza.” Suzanne is a journalist who focuses on travel writing.

She loves to discover places that are off the beaten path, but deserve to be better known.

WRITER WALKS AND WINE IN MADEIRA

Tel: 250.381.3484 Fax: 250.386.2624

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Victoria Boulevard® is a registered trademark of Black Press Group Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Ideas and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Black Press Group Ltd. or its affiliates; no official endorsement should be inferred. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents, both implied or assumed, of any advertisement in this publication.

Printed in Canada. Canada Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #42109519.

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JUNE/JULY 2022

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The best way to give a speech (in writing)

It was a grand, glitzy night at the annual Ma Murray newspaper awards gala in May, especially when Boulevard took Gold in the Best magazine category. However, although editor of the magazine, I was okay to not be in attendance.

I’ve been to many awards galas over the years and I know well the dread I feel watching winners traipse up to the stage—often in challenging high heels— pluck the award from the presenter and, worst of all, lean into the microphone and give a little thank-you speech. During that lead-up time, which often occurs over dinner—to drink or not to drink?—I’m at about 40/60: 40 per cent it would be cool to win and 60 per cent I don’t want to go up onto that stage and give that speech.

It’s not that I’m a coward exactly: I’ve white-water rafted; I’ve flown in a plane with the door off (to get better photos); I’ve even signed up for sky-diving at least twice in my life before finding my brain and un-signing myself; I’ve flown in an ultralight contraption. I like wild-sailing seas and fast motor boats.

But public speaking and I aren’t on good terms. I think my abhorrence of it reaches back to childhood when I blushed so easily, even the thought of blushing made me blush. I grew my hair long so I could tilt my head forward and cover my flaming cheeks with it. I wore a red sweater, hoping people would think my scarlet face was merely a reflection of the wool.

All through school and university I sat at the back of the class, avoiding teachers’ eyes. In a high school course that required an oral presentation, I created a slide show and spoke in the dark. I don’t know how many university courses I dropped to due to their oral component. Ironically, in my final semester of university, I was stuck in a class that required a presentation. I decided to skip the oral presentation and forfeit the marks by merely neglecting to sign up for a time slot. Unfortunately, the professor discovered me on the second to last day of my post-secondary experience. He squinted at me, looked slightly perplexed and asked when I would be honouring the class with my oratory presentation.

“But I’ve gone four years without having to do this,” I told him.

“Too bad,” he said.

I believe I became a writer so I would never have to give another speech.

At first, newspaper-award winning was fun. In the early days, winners walked up to the stage, retrieved a trophy and walked back to their seats while people applauded. Scary, but not terrifying. This all went downhill in the mid-’90s at my first Jack Webster awards gala—an exclusive, high-stakes event, featuring all sorts of famous-faced media people. I watched with mounting alarm as winners accepted their awards, pulled little bits of notepaper from pockets and gave Oscar-style speeches, thanking everyone from their moms to their pet parrots.

I suddenly, adamantly, did not want to win. But—god help me—my name was called and up I went, any semblance of a coherent thank-you speech turning to mush in my mind. I accepted my trophy, leaned into the microphone, choked out a simple, “Thank you very much,” and headed off the stage.

(Later—once the drinks were flowing—people said my speech was the very best of the night.)

Over the years, I’ve had to give other speeches. There have been book launches, a wedding toast, another Webster gala. It turns out I’m actually not bad at it. But I’m quite happy to see photos of my Ma Murray-award-winning colleagues, standing on the stage with publisher Mario Gedicke at the microphone. (Congrats to all the winners, especially those of you with whom work daily on Boulevard: Lia Crowe, Don Denton, Lily Chan, Michelle Gjerde and Tammy Robinson.)

Susan Lundy Managing Editor Susan Lundy is a former journalist who now works as an editor, author and freelance writer. Her latest book, Home on the Strange, was released earlier this year via Heritage House Publishing.

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design notes

Calm horizon

By Janice Jefferson, Modhaus Design

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Natural sand colour with hints of lavender and peach calm my soul— it's chill and relaxing. Add these elements to your surroundings to calm your mind and heart.

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1. Marset Jaima LED Outdoor Pendant, Gabriel Ross, $2,441

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8. Wonderland by Annie Leibovitz, Bolen Books, $100

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friends who’ve visited more than 80 countries.

life.style.etc.

RYAN MESSER, REALTOR WO RDS SUSAN LU N DY + PH OTOG RAPHY DO N D ENTO N

“G

ood style to me is whatever makes you feel comfortable in your own skin. Once you accomplish that, nobody can tell you different,” says Ryan.

And his own personal style?

“Outside of work, I like to keep things casual: fitted jeans, designer sneakers, black T-shirts, a nice timepiece and ALWAYS my Tom Ford sunglasses.”

Ryan grew up in the Okanagan and played provincial- and premiership-level rugby throughout high school and for years afterwards.

“I got into real estate because I have a personality for sales and a passion for helping people,” Ryan says. “I also wanted a career that would allow me time to do the things I love, which are hiking with my dog, mountain biking, road biking and travelling.”

Ryan’s work ethic of “do not quit until the job is done or let my foot off the gas in the process,” coupled with a strong problem-solving ability, has led to his success.

Asked what are the biggest life lessons he has recently learned, Ryan says: “Be yourself and get comfortable being alone now and then. The things you can accomplish and enjoy in your own time are immensely empowering. Outside of that, surround yourself with people of a similar mindset and interests, and especially people you consider to be more successful than you. Doing this has driven me to work harder, adopt new skills and keep positive energy throughout life.”

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CLOTHES/GROOMING Uniform: Jeans, good sneakers, T-shirt, blazer.

Favourite denim, brand and cut: Neuw Jeans: Iggy Skinny (tapered-up, of course).

Current go-to clothing item: Desoto short-sleeved button-up.

Favourite pair of shoes: St. Laurent leather sneakers.

Best new purchase: Matinique sports coat from Hughes Clothing.

Favourite day-bag: OXFORD Messenger bag.

Accessory you spend the most money on: Watches.

Favourite work tool: Passion Planner.

Sunglasses: Tom Ford.

Necessary indulgence: Gucci Ghost Chain Bracelet.

Scent: Le Labo Santal 33.

Favourite hair product: Agiva Sea Salt Spray.

READING MATERIAL Fave style blog: Men’s Fashion Post.

Coffee table book/photography book: Boulevard Magazine or Modern Home Mag. Last great read: The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene.

Book currently reading: The Almanack of Naval Ravikant: A Guide to Wealth and Happiness by Eric Jorgenson.

Favourite book of all time: Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins.

STYLE INSPIRATIONS & LIFE Style icon: Anderson .Paak.

Favourite artist: Zach Langer, Vernon, or Michael Goodwin, Victoria.

Favourite fashion designer or brand: Virgil Abloh.

Favourite musician: J. Cole.

Favourite local restaurant: Boom & Batten for casual; Zambri's for formal(ish).

Favourite cocktail or wine: Negroni / Tignanello Super Tuscan.

Album on current rotation: Kendrick Lamar's Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers.

Favourite city to visit: Prague, Czechoslovakia.

Favourite hotel: Fairmont Pacific Rim. Favourite app: Spotify.

Favourite place in the whole world: Victoria, BC.

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good taste

Wunderbar!

Eva Schnitzelhaus: German-inspired fare that’s fun, casual and delicious WORDS JANE MUNDY PHOTOGRAPHY DON DENTON

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W

e know that a good cook can serve up memories from faraway places or offer a ticket back to childhood.

If you’re craving currywurst like you once scarfed down in Berlin, a pretzel at Oktoberfest, schnitzel at a Michelin-star restaurant in Munich or spaetzle that your mother lovingly made, go directly to Eva Schnitzelhaus, where chef Maxime Durand will transport you to Deutschland and satisfy your cravings.

But don’t just take my word for it. Patron Duane Bell had only just returned from Austria and Germany when I met him at Eva’s.

“Germans and Austrians take their schnitzel seriously, so I was shocked at how good it was at an eatery in Victoria,” said Duane. “The currywurst was so good that it took me back to the street stall in Berlin, and all four of us ordered seconds—as well as every appetizer on the menu.”

Like most Austrians, Duane takes schnitzel seriously. “You can tell there’s a lot of pride behind this food, and combined with great service we are thrilled to discover this eatery—my German and Austrian tastebuds zing.”

Eva’s menu is simple and spare, but the flavours are complex and the portions are big. For instance, Maxime adds 10 spices, perfectly balanced, to his currywurst, and ginormous schnitzels barely fit on the dinner plate. The breading is crisp and greaseless and the meat so tender. You’ll find classic choices such as schweineschnitzel (German pork schnitzell), roesti and raclette, but with modern twists. Fresh, local produce and the eggplant schnitzel—prepared sous vide with a side of rutabaga and sauerkraut—will bring a vegetarian back for more. I will return for a plate of braised red cabbage alone.

You won’t know from the menu that almost everything, from schnitzels and spaetzle to pretzels and pickles, are haus-made at Eva’s and there’s even a smoker in the kitchen to smoke ham hocks and bacon, thanks to chef Maxime and his sous-chef Emile pulling double shifts.

One afternoon, I witnessed the pretzel prep. The dough is fermented overnight and chilled. Once about four dozen are shaped, they are dipped in an alkaline solution to caramelize the dough and proofed for half an hour before baking.

“We try to serve them hot-out-of-the-oven just before dinner time,” Maxime explained.

And getting back to the currywurst, it’s classic Berlin street food, served with dollops of curried ketchup and potato

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“The currywurst was so good that it took me back to the street stall in Berlin, and all four of us ordered seconds—as well as every appetizer on the menu.” chips. North America’s equivalent is the steamed, smothered hot dog at the hockey game or street stall—but it’s way better. Just for starters, Maxime’s ingredients don’t include preservatives.

Naturally, there’s a decent beer selection at Eva’s with lager and pilsner on tap to wash down your wurst. And if you’re not starved for a full meal but want a snack with that stein anytime after 4 pm, go for the big and chewy, soft and twisty pretzel with mustard butter. But be warned: it’s addictive.

Breakfast is an important meal in Germany. There’s a German saying: Iss dein Frühstück wie ein Kaiser (eat your breakfast like a king), which at Eva’s refers to brunch; it will soon open for lunch as well.

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Some items on the dinner menu are featured with a twist, such as schnitzel hollandaise and cured trout Benny with a mouth-watering sauerkraut pancake—hold the bread.

The space itself is like the menu: small and unpretentious with a low-key vibe, whimsical décor with a nod to a ski chalet and just enough kitsch on the walls.

You’ve got to hand it to anyone opening a restaurant during the pandemic. Added to the fray, German food sometimes gets a bad rap, often perceived as heavy and stodgy: boiled sausages and potatoes and cabbage covered in cream and served by round men wearing lederhosen in beer halls. Austrian cuisine fares better perception-wise: considered more spa-like and sophisticated.

But when Victoria’s Rathskeller Schnitzel House said auf wiedersehen after half a century, there wasn’t much else in the city serving schnitzels and steins, and people crave comfort food in stressful times.

Chef Maxime, who previously helmed the kitchen at the award-winning Agrius, saw an opportunity. However, he says, it was nerve-wracking opening in November 2021 because nobody knew if the pandemic would get worse.

“At the same time, people wanted to experience something new, although we aren’t re-inventing the wheel. Sure, I have doubts sometimes when I wake up, but after a few beers they fade away, and questioning yourself is part of the learning experience,” he said, laughing. “As well, restaurant restrictions were lifting, so we had a bit of momentum right off the bat—it was like a slow opening and now we are ready for a busy summer.”

Maxime chose not to deliver or offer take-out because “schnitzel doesn’t travel well.” Comfort food is a source of hearty, warming pleasure year-round and that is something you’ll find at Eva Schnitzelhaus.

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well and good

IMAGE

on the move 22

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Stay healthy this summer with a movement-based holiday WORDS KAISHA SCOFIELD

X PHOTOGRAPHY MICHELLE GJERDE

We are lucky enough to live in a province that is packed full of world-class activities that will keep you entertained while keeping you active and supporting wellness.

A

h, summer: long lazy days at the beach, slow evenings around the campfire, carefree floats on the lake and idle hours in the hammock.

The ease of summer can be wonderful, but it can also be a time when positive movement and nutritional habits are tossed out the window. It’s easy to understand why. Summer schedules are more relaxed, days are longer, and there are opportunities for physical and nutritional compromise around every corner—cowboy coffee by the beach, weekends of day drinking and s’mores-infused camping trips.

It is, however, possible to achieve summer bliss without completely losing track of your health. We are lucky enough to live in a province that is packed full of world-class activities that will keep you entertained while keeping you active and supporting wellness. Here are a few summer vacation ideas that offer adventure, movement, relaxation and fun.

OCEAN:

We are rich with stunning ocean vistas and wild beaches here in BC, but too often we are unfamiliar with the vast and mysterious waters that surround us. A great way to become one with the ocean is to take a kayaking trip alongside Pacific Rim National Park, in Northern Barkley Sound and Clayoquot Sound.

Whether you are a seasoned paddler or still getting your sea legs (or arms, in this case), this adventure has it all. Paddle through the shores surrounding Tofino or Ucluelet, exploring the Broken Group Islands, ancient First Nations villages and old-growth forests. Many tour companies offer a variety of outings from quick day trips to epic five-day adventures.

These are the gains: kayaking works your arms and shoul-

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ders but is also an incredible way to build core and back strength.

Spending time on the water is one of the best ways to boost mental health and wellness; the sound of the waves, coupled with the salty air and motion of the water can provide mental clarity and peace of mind.

MOUNTAIN:

We are spoiled with incredible skiing opportunities in BC, and when the snow melts those hills turn into topnotch hiking destinations. Spend a weekend in Whistler and Blackcomb, exploring the stunning glacier-fed lakes in Garibaldi Provincial Park that boast water so blue it has to be seen to believed.

Or head to the beautiful Taylor alpine meadows with awesome mountain formations like The Chimney, found on Black Tusk hike.

This area offers everything from challenging multi-day hiking trips and mountaineering to smaller day hikes with stunning waterfalls.

These are the gains: any walking activity is beneficial to your legs, hips, glutes and core, but alpine hiking takes things to the next level.

Working under strain, with a backpack and/or at higher altitudes challenges your body (muscles and cardiovascular system) in a way that you won’t experience in the gym. Alpine hiking is a great way to combine adventure with physical activity.

SELF:

Yoga retreats abound in BC but there is something extra special about Savasana on the Gulf Islands. The Salt Spring Centre of Yoga is a non-profit facility that is one of the longest running retreat centres in the province. Its annual Community Yoga Retreat is a popular multi-day, family-centred event that includes activities for kids, evening events, food and, of course, plenty of yoga. Yogis can choose to camp on the vast property or rent a private or shared

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Strap on your hiking boots, fill up your water bottle (don’t forget your electrolytes, and get your body and mind into nature. room in the main centre. There are yoga retreat centres all through the Gulf Islands that offer single- or multi-day retreats.

These are the gains: yoga is full-body training for every level. The various styles and poses allow for excellent movement and stretching of the big and small muscles of the body. Because of the extensive breathing and mindfulness practised during yoga training, physical and mental strength are perfectly combined. A yoga retreat is an ideal holiday for someone who is looking to boost their physical and mental health while also engaging in some deep self care.

SKY:

If you are looking for something extreme, there’s nothing better than skydiving over the Pacific Ocean. Skydive Vancouver Island, located just outside of Nanaimo in Nanoose Bay, will take you 10,000 feet into the sky where you will tandem jump and enjoy a 200-kilometre/hour free-fall for 45 seconds, before your guide pulls the chute that will sail you back to earth.

If the thrill of jumping out of a plane isn’t enough, the views from the sky of Comox and Cowichan Valley, Mount Baker, Mount Arrowsmith and Barkley Sound will blow your mind. This adventure is one for the bucket list.

These are the gains: the majority of growth in this experience is mental, the importance of which can not be understated. Bravery and self-reliance are huge parts of training, for sport and life. It is

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safe to say that jumping out of a plane, while several thousand feet in the air, can provide a new perspective.

LAND:

The Okanagan is famous for its wine, and for good reason: it has more award-winning wineries than anywhere else in BC. What do you do when there are so many amazing wineries in one place? You go on a tour, but not just any tour. These tours are by bicycle.

Throughout the Okanagan there are companies offering wine tours via manual and electric bicycle. These tours often include delicious picnics, extra activities like hiking and, of course, wine.

These are the gains: cycling is one of the most efficient forms of movement. Your leg and glute muscles are definitely doing the bulk of the work, but cycling involves participation from the entire body, including the mind. Road cycling is an excellent way to combine motor and cognitive training because of the necessity for the collaboration of physical and mental movement, navigation and coordination.

The best way to experience the beauty of British Columbia is by getting into the wilderness through nature and movement-based holidays. There are endless possibilities and incredible companies and guides ready to take you on the adventure of a lifetime. So strap on your hiking boots, fill up your water bottle (don’t forget your electrolytes, and get your body and mind into nature.

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in studio WITH CHARLES CAMPBELL

A world of possibilities

Victoria artist wins Shadbolt Foundation VIVA Award WORDS JOHN ATKINSON

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X

PHOTOGRAPHY LIA CROWE

F

or Jamaican-born visual artist Charles Campbell, making good art is about expanding his world and its possibilities—and then inspiring others to do the same.

The now Victoria-based painter, sculptor and performance artist has been exploring multiple disciplines and his own creative mind for nearly 30 years, and this year he has been honoured with the Jack & Doris Shadbolt Foundation for the Visual Arts VIVA Award.

“I can be extroverted, but mostly I tend to come into myself, and so the art production is where I kind of move into the world and imagine its possibilities in a bigger space,” Charles says. “At this moment, in the world, it feels like things are closing down.

There’s this ecological tragedy we’re living through and a kind of segmentation of groups into smaller categories. There’s so much possibility in the world, so let’s recapture that sense. And hopefully, through my art, I can help and inspire other people to imagine that bigger perspective.”

As for what he’s discovered is possible for himself, the 52-yearold highlights race and climate change as his most prominent motivations in creating art.

“It’s often about both capturing the experience I and other Black folks/racialized people have lived through, and seeing how that can assist us in navigating the future.

“Our history has demanded we reinvent our cultures and move forward. When you think about the history of slavery, its brutality and attempt to annihilate our social structures and personhood, it necessitated a kind of cultural ferment. We have to reconstruct ourselves.”

When Charles was five, his family moved from Jamaica to Prince Edward Island. Keen to reconnect with his homeland, he moved back to Jamaica after obtaining a degree in fine arts from Concordia University in Montreal. And that’s where he cut his teeth as an artist.

Charles had investigated issues of race and identity at art school and felt compelled to properly connect with his Jamaican-ness. He stayed for five years and later returned for another two-year spell, including time as chief curator at the National Gallery of Jamaica.

The artist was captivated by Jamaican history, not least its period of slavery, and how the colonial past and social fractures affect the current-day social dynamics and problems with violence. His art helps investigate and expand these ideas.

“I think the question I always ask is ‘how did we end up here?’

In Canada, I feel like we try to gloss over the fact our foundation is rooted in Indigenous genocide. But it’s harder to pretend Jamaica’s economic foundations were anything other than as a slave colony.”

Charles left Jamaica after his five-year spell to do a master’s degree at Goldsmiths College in London, England, and then spent five years there, marrying his first wife, having two kids and eventually moving to Vancouver Island to reconnect with family.

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Working out of his home studio in Fernwood, Charles now focuses more on sculpture and performance art—although, he also began painting.

“Then, really through my master’s degree at Goldsmiths, I started getting interested in performance. I found any references I made to Caribbean history in my paintings were dismissed. They were just seen as ‘he’s talking about Blackness’ or ‘he’s a Caribbean artist’.

“Performance art placed me in the middle of these categorizations and really allowed me to answer back to my audience.”

Having reinvented his painting, Charles explored both performance and sculpture through a character.

“I got obsessed with this character from a Jamaican folk festival called Jonkonnu and started reinventing it. I created a character called Actor Boy from a utopian future and embedded that question of ‘how did we get here?’ in him. Then he started making objects and that became my sculpture practice.”

Charles portrayed Actor Boy in Travels in Birdsong on stage in PEI and interacted with his sculptures as part of the performance.

Travels in Birdsong also featured audio sound captures of wetland birds singing from The Bog, a place on PEI which was previously home to a Black community.

“The idea was refined for my airport piece [Time Catcher: The Fruiting of Chaos, a permanent exhibit at Victoria International Airport].

It’s made out of these vessels that hang in a torus. And the pattern on the surface is Morse code: a quote about paradise from Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower. She’s a Black science fiction writer known for being very prescient.”

Charles is especially proud of his airport exhibit and his piece Maroonscape 3, portraying a 17-foot tree in a Y shape (and with miniY’s in the branches) and the human respiratory system, which was

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displayed at the Vancouver Art Gallery’s 2021 Vancouver Special show, and later reinstalled in Montreal.

Charles now works full-time as an artist, but says his major success and recognition has come only in the last three or four years.

“Yes, now it feels like a career. But it hasn’t always paid the bills.

I’ve worked in the environmental non-profit sector for many years.

However, I always made art and it got to the point where there were enough opportunities to really go for it.

“I’ve been making work for nearly 30 years and it’s only the past three or four where I’ve made a decent living. So hopefully you’re doing good work that gets recognized. The stars won’t always align for you, but I’m confident I can work through the challenges.”

His exceptional art has this year enjoyed the sublime salute of a Jack & Doris Shadbolt Foundation for the Visual Arts VIVA Award.

His near three-decade career as an artist—and the outstanding achievement and commitment he has shown—earned him a $15,000 grant as selected by an independent jury.

Since their inception, 59 VIVA Awards have been given, and Campbell says it was “pretty thrilling” to get the call from the awards committee.

“It feels good to be recognized closer to home,” he said. “The list of previous recipients is impressive and it’s especially meaningful to share this year’s award with Jan Wade. Recognition for her work is long overdue!

“Beyond that, the cheque certainly comes in handy. I’m looking for a new studio that can accommodate larger work but wasn’t quite sure I could afford it. Now the search is on.”

To learn more about Charles’ work, visit charlescampbellart.com.

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Go west coast Adventures on Vancouver Island’s Spirit Loop WORDS SUSAN LUNDY PHOTOGRAPHY LANDON COPPLESTONE COURTESY TOURISM LANGFORD

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ake the Pacific Marine Circle Route, add in a passion for nature, a need for relaxation and a palate that’s craving divine flavours, and you’re ready for the Spirit Loop—a driving tour that explores the Vancouver Island communities of Langford, Sooke, Port Renfrew and Malahat.

This is a well-loved route that my husband and I have traversed many times. But as we undertook our journey in late April—amid typical west coast sun-rain-sun weather—we were astonished by the array of new-to-us sights and experiences, and elated by the Spirit Loop’s celebration of everything west coast.

It’s tough to decide what stood out the most.

Was it the views? Because they were spectacular. On our first evening we dined in the newly renovated Masters Lounge at Westin Bear Mountain Resort, gaping at the expansive edgeof-the-mountain view as seen through the retractable glass roof and walls above and beside our table.

Then there was the inky ocean vista from the rocks at Sheringham Point Lighthouse in Sooke, and the mesmerizing, top-of-the-world scene from the Malahat SkyWalk. And almost capping it all was the view from the window-encased bathtub at the Malahat’s Moon Water Lodge, where the sight line extended up and down Finlayson Arm. In the distance, we could see the hive-like structure of the Malahat SkyWalk jutting out from the trees; and it was here in the morning that the sunrise stretched pink fingers from the horizon straight into the room.

So the views stood out, definitely. But the hikes were great too. At Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail in Langford we followed an easy-to-navigate path through a dense thicket, where the sun shone on lichen-draped trees and it felt like an enchanted forest. The trail led us to a waterfall-viewing platform and a suspension bridge. Later, we strolled the windy-sunny-rainy Whiffin Spit in Sooke, then scrambled down a hillside path to the Sheringham Point Lighthouse, wandered the rocky beach in front of our dockside cabin at Wild Renfrew, and explored the beautiful blossoming trees in the orchards at Merridale Cidery & Distillery in Cobble Hill.

But perhaps most surprising was our hike along Sombrio Beach—a surfers’ paradise near Port Renfrew—where we followed directions just off the beach to an absolutely spectacular waterfall and water-carved canyon.

Food and drink options on the Spirit Loop also stand out as highlights, starting with our impeccable dinner at Masters Lounge, where a three-course meal paired with wine by master sommelier Bipin Bhatt had us swooning over both the flavours

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We serve German inspired fare in a fun and casual way, and bring a touch of our Pacific Northwest bounty to the rich heritage of German/Austrian cuisine.

We pride ourselves with using local and fresh ingredients to create our own rendition of such traditions.

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At House of Boateng in Langford we met chef-owner Castro Boateng and got the story behind his restaurant’s menu, which merges flavours of West Africa, the Caribbean and Pacific Northwest cuisine. (More info below.) Not only did we relish our breakfast here, we walked up the road to Castro’s store and purchased a bottle of HOB hot sauce. Recommended!

PH: Jody Beck

and the artistry of the presentation. Elevated even higher by the view, it was a royal feast.

Bridgemans Bistro, nestled along the Mill Bay shoreline at the foot of a marina, was also a revelation. Views from the floorto-ceiling windows, the chill atmosphere and excellent food will, going forward, forever command a Mill Bay detour from Highway 1. It claims to pay homage to the blue-collar sensibility of the hardworking, adventurous bridge worker, offering “dishes that are

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But as we undertook our journey in late April—amid typical west coast sun-rain-sun weather—we were astonished by the array of newto-us sights and experiences.

We also found spirits on the Spirit Loop, first at Sheringham Distillery in Sooke, where we sampled the distillery’s unique west-coast take on gin, liqueur and aquavit. Divine.

At Merridale, we discovered that in addition to producing a full line of ciders, Merridale was one of the very first craft distilleries in BC. We ended up tasting a flight of spirits and a flight of ciders, and headed home with a bottle of Rumb—a very tasty rum-style spirit made with honey instead of cane sugar.

Our tasting took place in a beautiful indoor setting but (had the sun been shining) we could have sat outside in the picturesque orchard picnic area.

Accommodations? Options are plentiful, and all our overnight spots were pet-friendly. Our experience included a spacious, upscale room at the Westin Bear Mountain. (While the rooms are lovely now, they are all scheduled for renovation. New owners at the Westin are renovating much of the hotel, and if the new Masters Lounge is any indication, the results will be spectacular.)

In Port Renfrew, we stayed at Wild Renfrew in a sweet two-room cabin accessed off a dock and in close proximity to great food at the Renfrew Pub. We spent our final night at Moon Water Lodge, and while the location just off the highway on the Malahat might not be optimum, you can solve the problem by hopping in the bathtub, drinking in the views (and perhaps a glass of something bubbly) and forgetting all about everything else.

The final stop for me on the Spirit Loop left me in excellent spirits. Back at the Westin Bear Mountain, I stepped into Amatista Spa and slipped into the velvety world that is their signature West Coast Body Wrap, using award-winning BC-made Beauty Through Balance products. This luxurious, detoxifying body treatment features Pacific seaweed, sea salts and pure green tea, as well as a Canadian glacial mask, with ingredients harvested from the mountains on Vancouver Island. The experience was so deeply relaxing, I drifted into a light sleep, dreaming I was wrapped in a cocoon while my face was gently rubbed and my scalp massaged.

A true west coast experience and a perfect conclusion to the Spirit Loop journey.

(To learn more or watch a mini documentary on the Spirit Loop, visit spiritloop.ca.)

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AFRICAN BOWL AT HOUSE OF BOATENG.

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We had so many amazing feasts on the Spirit Loop, but a meal at House of Boateng is really something special. There is a lot of love and creativity here, with West Coast flavours enhanced by an African influence. Take the highly-popular Hippie Bennie, which has an African-style chickpea base with a hollandaise sauce featuring wild BC mushrooms and nettle. I’m not generally a big breakfast person, but my gluten-free, dairy-free vegetarian African Bowl (jollof rice with Senegal flavours, pickled vegetables, scrambled eggs and smoked eggplant puree) was so good, I may have to change my morning ways.

Our pet-friendly, two-bedroom cottage at Wild Renfrew gave us lots of space to spread out. It was comfortable with a seaside, west-coast vibe, a full kitchen and space outside on the deck to curl up, drink a morning coffee and watch the play of the ocean. The Renfrew Pub, located on the same property, is a waterfront restaurant and homey gathering place, obviously popular with locals. The menu has many good options, and our selections were delicious.

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Malahat SkyWalk starts with an easily-accessed 600-metre “TreeWalk” through a beautiful arbutus forest. It leads to a gentle-elevation spiral ramp that winds upwards 32 metres to a sightseeing lookout. The views are spectacular, extending over Finlayson Arm, Saanich Peninsula, Mount Baker and distant coastal mountains.

There’s also a cool slide to zip back down on, and construction is underway for a nearby food and picnic area. This is a world-class attraction, and definitely worth a visit.

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hen designer Brooke Hatfield took on the challenge of renovating her 1929 Fairfield home, she did it with a clear vision of marrying the original features with fresh, contemporary design, and finding the perfect balance point where the old and the new complemented each other.

Nearing its century landmark, the house came with well-worn outdoor stone steps to the front door—itself housed in a turret—plenty of leaded windows, original bathroom fixtures and an ancient brick fireplace. The home had seen some updates through the years, most recently in the ’90s, says Brooke, but the overall design was still very compartmentalized.

“We wanted to open it up,” she says. “The challenge of the house was how to bring it up to today’s standards and today’s windows, but keep some of that old character.”

After working with architect Graham Smith in Vancouver, Brooke got in touch with Martin Scaia of Green Island Builders to put the plans into action.

“We had a lot of fun with that one,” says Martin. “We specialize in renovations, and I really enjoy those projects where we can take an older house and bring it into the modern age.”

Virtually everything on the main and upper floors was updated or replaced. A bedroom at the front of the house was transformed into a home office for Brooke, full of efficient built-in shelving and workspaces. Several walls were taken out to open up the dining room-kitchen-media room triad, and a narrow wall was added at the end of the front hallway, which creates a sense of escaping the world outside as you go around the corner into the media room.

Here, an ingenious nook houses a hide-able television, surrounded by built-in shelves and a sleek gas fireplace.

Black French doors lead out onto the back patio, letting in a huge amount of natural light.

The contemporary angle is stronger in the kitchen with its deep granite sink, quartz countertops and marble backsplash. The space is done in a classic palette of white and matte black, with waterfall edges on the island and a touch of brass hardware for warmth. The wall opposite the windows holds the panelled fridge and freezer, cupboards, and the door to the basement, all done in a

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streamlined matte black that unifies them in an unobtrusive way.

The painted black windows in the kitchen also tie in nicely with the original leaded windows in the adjacent dining area, again tying the old to the new.

Coming into the dining room, it’s the light fixture that’s the most immediately impacting element of the design. Geometric and bold, it’s the Triad: 9 Linear Pendant piece from famed New York lighting designers Apparatus Studio. Crafted from brass, blackened brass and hand-cast porcelain cones, it’s gorgeous, and it was a must-have.

“It’s my favourite. I blew the budget on that one,” says Brooke, laughing. “But I love lighting! And having a couple of feature lights is a way to really elevate a space. To have the old windows juxtaposed with quite a contemporary light, I really like the way that works.”

Coming back around to the front of the house into the living room, original leaded windows frame the cosy, bright space. What was once an old red brick hearth and fireplace was transformed with Venetian plaster and a simple black arched fireplace. The result stands out as a focal point on the main floor. The plaster

“The challenge of the house was how to bring it up to today’s standards and today’s windows, but keep some of that old character.” catches and reflects light in subtle but striking ways, sometimes soft, sometimes pearlescent, and evokes feelings of designs both old and luxurious.

“I wanted it to be fresh, but I still wanted it to be warm, so that came in with the textiles and the carpets—and the lighting was really important,” says Brooke. “And then I wanted drama somewhere, so that was the powder room.”

The powder room—just beyond the staircase—is a work of

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art. Striking swooshes of black on stark white walls, all beneath a black ceiling and a sharply geometric light fixture, are paired with the home’s original pedestal sink and leaded glass windows. Adding to the drama of the house are the seven-foot doors throughout the main floor, something Brooke includes with many of her professional projects.

Upstairs saw a dramatic change in the bedroom and en suite, with the angled ceiling shifting higher to allow for usable space around the vanity in the bathroom.

“That was a real dance to figure out how to make that a functional space and still get through all of the permits and inspections,” says Martin.

The crew ended up taking off the back end of the roof and enlarging the dormer to create enough space to stand in front of the vanity mirror, redesigning the bathroom layout on site. The result is an en suite that’s as functional as it is beautiful, with large hex tiling, abundant natural light spilling in from the skylights, a roomy standing shower and the newly painted original tub.

Behind the scenes, the insulation, plumbing and wiring were all significantly updated. A built-in sound system was installed throughout the main floor, with discreet speakers placed strategically in the ceiling. Each of the bathrooms got an in-floor heating upgrade, and the separate basement suite was freshened up with new paint and trimmings.

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spotlight

Down to a fine art Gallerist Jennifer Kostuik reflects the world of art WORDS LAUREN KRAMER PHOTOGRAPHY LIA CROWE

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t’s a thundering, rain-filled day in April, but there’s a peace and calm that hovers over Kostuik Gallery on Vancouver’s Homer Street. In a 3,000-sqaure-foot space filled with stunning pieces of contemporary art, Jennifer Kostuik reflects on art and why people buy it.

“Some buy it because they like the colours or texture—very surface things,” she says. “They like how a piece of art makes them feel. For others it’s because they have a connection to a particular work and can’t get it out of their mind; they don’t know why they love it, they just do. And some people like to meet the artist and hear the story behind the work. The art represents a change they’re going through in their own life.”

As the owner of the gallery, which is celebrating 25 years in business this year, Jennifer sees herself as a broker, easing a customer’s way through an art purchase. “It’s almost like being a psychologist,” she says. “I know what my artist is saying and I’m figuring out what my customer is looking for, even though they may not know it.”

A Canadian raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Jennifer studied art history at Queens University in Kingston, Ontario, initially intending to be an artist herself. Early on she realized she didn’t have the vocational drive to produce art full time, and felt she could better fulfill her creative process by promoting living artists.

Post-college she worked in Toronto, learning about contemporary Canadian art before moving to Vancouver in 1996 to open her own gallery.

In 1997, her gallery opened with a collection of work by artists who had previously been represented in a gallery that had just closed. Those first years included a steep learning curve, Jennifer admits.

“I didn’t have a formed relationship with those artists, and because I didn’t know them and wasn’t behind the ideas that inspired their work, I found it difficult to sell some of their art.”

As she began to understand the significance of choosing her own aesthetic and having meaningful relationships with her artists, Jennifer began actively pursuing artists she wanted to represent.

She flew around Canada to meet them and perused artists worldwide. She was looking for art that spoke to her and that would resonate with her clients in British Columbia, as well as with new clients made through exhibiting in international art fairs in Miami, San Francisco and New York City.

“As a gallery owner, I believe you need a good working relationship with an artist, like any business relationship, because art is very personal,” she says. “Art is an expression of someone’s soul, the spirit inside of them. And you’re representing someone else’s career as much as you’re furthering your own career. So, I worked hard at going after artists whose art I related to, who I wanted to represent, and who I felt I could work with.”

Today she represents 27 artists, ranging in age from 32 (Whitney

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“Some buy it because they like the colours or texture—very surface things. They like how a piece of art makes them feel. For others it’s because they have a connection to a particular work and can’t get it out of their mind… And some people like to meet the artist and hear the story behind the work.”

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Lewis-Smith) up to 72 (Stu Oxley). Just over half the artists are Canadian, while the remainder are from the United States, Europe, Mexico and Argentina. Just five of the artists are local to BC: photography artists David Burdeny, Judy D. Shane, Philip Jarmain, Whitney Lewis-Smith and painter Ghislain Brown-Kossi.

The price tags of art in Kostuik Gallery vary significantly, ranging from $650 up to $50,000 for the most expensive pieces. Jennifer’s advice to buyers is that if you’re buying anything over $20,000, “ask who the artist is and why their work is in that price range.” Anything below that number is within the average range, she adds.

“Art is an investment, and I believe it’s the best investment in any volatile market,” she says unequivocally. “It’s a better investment than gold because it never depreciates, it always goes up.”

She cites the work of local artist David Burdeny as an example. “His photography is collected internationally and his market value has gone up more than 50 per cent since 2001.”

Jennifer has developed a knack for knowing what her local customers are looking for. So, when American artist William Betts recently offered to send her a selection of line paintings from the series he had first exhibited and sold successfully with her in 2007, she gladly accepted them.

“My newer clients had never seen this series before and I had a collector of Betts' work itching for more, so I had a feeling it would fly,” she recalls. “It did. I sold six of his pieces in one week!”

Some gallery clients are personal art collectors, while others are corporate clients including CBRE Ltd, Concert Properties and Hollyburn Properties. Liquidity Wines in the Okanagan

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Chin Yuen ‘Symbiosis’

Unique, contemporary Canadian artworks in painting, sulpture and photography.

430 Campbell Street, Tofino (behind Rhino Coffee) www.TofinoGalleryofContemporaryArt.com Instagram: @tofinogalleryofcontemporaryart

Tofino Brick House, Sculpture: Birgit Piskor

Unique, refined, and artful Vacation Rental Homes at Chesterman Beach, Tofino 430 Campbell Street, Tofino (behind Rhino Coffee) www.TofinoBeachCollective.com Instagram: @tofinobeachcollective

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featured a collection of work by David Burdeny and Philip Jarmain.

Jennifer relishes her connections to her artists and watching their work develop.

“I love forging new relationships with artists, and I really believe in what I do and in what they do. I believe having art in one’s life is a need, a necessity, and that’s why I do it,” she says.

The bonds with her artists are deeply personal, and many artists have become close friends. Often, the relationship is collaborative.

The artists understand what Jennifer sees in their work, and sometimes even request her feedback on their new creations.

A collector herself, it can be hard for Jennifer to resist adding to her personal art collection.

“I know what the best artwork is and it’s hard not to buy the best of the best that you know your artists have made!” she admits.

As she reflects on 25 years in Vancouver’s art world, it’s gratitude that Jennifer feels first and foremost.

“It’s been a tough journey running a gallery in this city, but I’m very grateful for being able to do what I do here,” she says, adding, “The past two years were the best I’ve had in a long time, perhaps because of the pandemic. People weren’t traveling and weren’t distracted by life, so they could focus on themselves, their homes and their office spaces. I had the opportunity to reconnect with clients I hadn’t seen in years, and met new clients that finally had time to enter the doors of my gallery.”

618 Broughton Street | 778 406 1600 bagheeravictoria.ca

business class

Family business Confortis thrive as a family and as work mates WORDS TESS VAN STRAATEN

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PHOTOGRAPHY DON DENTON

M

ario Conforti began his career as a builder when he was just 14 years old—working for his cabinet-maker dad back in Italy—and he says he couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

“Whatever we needed, we would make,” the 79-year-old founder of Conforti Homes says. “We used to make windows and doors, and we would even make furniture. You start from the beginning and when you finish, you’ve done something. You’re creating something with your hands and the more you build, the more you want to do it.”

After moving to Canada in 1965 and starting a homebuilding business with his wife, Vera, that building bug spread to their sons, Gino and Maurizio (Mo).

“Both my brothers have worked with my dad since they were 13 or 14 years old, keeping up the family tradition,” Tania Conforti explains. “I saw that and said, ‘I’m not doing that!’ I actually worked as a paralegal for 18 years

and I never thought I would go into the family business.”

Tania began helping out part-time in 2006, but as the Conforti family’s custom home business grew, she realized she couldn’t keep juggling both jobs.

“I was working at a law firm and I was burnt out and this was far more enjoyable,” says Tania, who came on full-time in 2019 and handles all the contracts and designs. “I love design and I love the creativity of it. And because of my background in law, I have the ability to read and write contracts and that makes it a lot easier for us.”

“It was not planned that everyone would work in the business, but it’s fun and we all get along very well,” adds Mario, who’s now semi-retired. “We respect each other and if there’s a problem, we sit down and talk.”

The three siblings all have distinct roles—Mo is the project manager on job sites and they call Gino, a gifted interior finisher, “the artist.” Tania believes their ability to work well together and

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“It was not planned that everyone would work in the business, but it’s fun and we all get along very well.

We respect each other and if there’s a problem, we sit down and talk.”

make both the business and the family work is because they grew up watching their parents do it.

“We learned that business is business and family is family,” she says. “Family is important and, at the end of the day, family is more important than our business.”

For Tania, the biggest learning curve has been getting used to working for herself and finding the right work-life balance.

“I spent 18 years working for somebody else, and suddenly I went from my day being 8 o’clock to four, or eight to five, to my time not always being my own,” says Tania, whose adorable dog, Lola, joined us for the interview. “When you work at home and your office is at home, it’s always there. You don’t get to walk away from it and it’s all about finding those boundaries and that balance.”

The biggest challenges for the business right now are the same many companies are facing—labour shortages and supply-chain issues.

“Getting products that we need in a timely manner has really been an issue since COVID-19,” Tania says. “We try to get our custom homes done within a year and we’re really good at that, but we’ve had to give ourselves a buffer because there’s just things we can’t control.”

The pandemic has also hammered up demand for renovation and building projects, which is something that initially surprised this tight-knit family in the early days of the crisis.

“When the pandemic hit, we all had that nervousness that something might happen to our business because we weren’t sure that people would still want to build,” explains Tania. “And the shocking part for all of us is that the construction industry boomed. People

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couldn’t travel so they took their travel money and said, ‘I’m going to make my home my sanctuary.’”

With their business growing even faster than they expected, Conforti Homes has several exciting projects coming up, including smaller developments, and Tania is planning for more growth in the future.

“We’ve really found a niche in the building market and we have a good reputation so we get a lot of referrals,” she says.

“If you’d asked me two years ago if I could foresee where we’re sitting today, I would have said no. I thought it would have taken us longer to get here.”

There are lots of lessons Mario has passed down to his children over the years, but Tania says the one that resonates the most has nothing to do with construction.

“The best advice my dad has ever given me is to do what makes you happy, as long as it’s not hurting anybody else in the process. And I try to live my life like that.”

After building a successful business and spending 65 years in his field, Mario also has some key advice for other entrepreneurs or people thinking of starting a business.

“Go for it, but you have to be willing to work,” he says.

“That’s the main thing because you have to like to work because it takes a lot of your time.”

“Make sure you love what you’re going to do because it’s something that’s going to be with you day and night for a number of years,” Tania adds. “We love what we do and it’s more than just building a house for us. We always say we’re building a home because we’re building people’s dream homes.”

LOCALLY HANDCRAFTED DESIGNER KITCHENS

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WILD fashion

WILD Head west this season along the covered-wagon trail as fashion gives a nod to “Little House on the Prairie,” with puffed sleeves and full skirts. Hop on the stagecoach as we head back in time to The Hatching Post’s old-time saloon on Kelowna’s wild west side.

PHOTOGRAPHY: DARREN HULL STYLING: SARAH D’ARCEY CREATIVE DIRECTION: LIA CROWE

Ulla Johnson Nerida Embroidered Ruffle Cotton Dress, $774, and Sea Vienne Long Sleeve Eyelet Lace Cotton Blouse, $384, both from Nordstrom Canada; Ariat Women’s Heritage Lacer Boots, $209; vintage gloves and hat, stylist’s own.

Sea Ida Flora Cotton Dress, $585, from Nordstrom Canada; Ariat Round Toe Western Boots, $335.

Costarellos White Maxi Dress, $789, from Turnabout Luxury Resale.

Brixton Joanna Felted Wool Fedora, $80, Simone Rocha Long Sleeve Cotton Shirtdress, $2,410, and Simone Rocha Broderie Anglaise Cotton Shorts, $1,295, all from Nordstrom Canada; Ariat Women’s Heritage Lacer Boots, $209.

Brixton Joanna Felted Wool Fedora, $80, and MUGLER Cutout Gabardine Trench Coat, $3270, both from Nordstrom Canada; Costarellos White Maxi Dress, $789, from Turnabout Luxury Resale.

Simone Rocha Floral Tiered Egg Dress, $2,885, from Nordstrom Canada; Ariat Women’s Heritage Lacer Boots, $209.

Makeup: Jenny McKinney.

Model: Nadia de Vos, represented by Déjà Vu Model Management.

Photographed on location at The Hatching Post Saloon and Smokery.

Get your brain in gear Brain clinics, qEEG brain mapping and TMS are catchwords of a new focus on brain health WORDS JANE ZATYLNY

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Brain health relies on three pillars: healthy biology through positive sleep and nutritional habits, a positive social environment, and a sense of purpose.

T

he human brain is the original information superhighway. And like the electronic networks that control so much of our lives, it is unimaginably complex, with overpasses and off ramps, service roads and four-lane freeways, country laneways and congested city streets. Without a road map, we can easily lose our way.

Many of us know only too well what a loss of cognitive function can mean. I watched my own mother struggle with dementia following her stroke at age 72. If possible, I hope to avoid the same condition. Given the number of apps, cookbooks and supplements that promise to improve our memory and attention span, I know I’m not alone.

According to Psych Central, an independent mental health information and news website, mental health will continue to be a top health trend in 2022 as we move through the third year of the pandemic.

“A recent poll by the American Psychiatric Association showed that one-quarter of Americans made a new year’s resolution to improve their mental health in 2022,” they note.

The trend, which has been fuelled by the athletes, celebrities, and various public figures who discussed their challenges with mental health over the last year, is leading to a growing interest around brain health. Techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and qEEG brain mapping are gaining momentum, along with the private brain clinics that offer them.

What exactly is brain health? A report published last year in The Lancet Neurology proposed a definition of brain health in adults as “a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing through the continuous development and exercise of the brain.”

“People are realizing that mind and body are very much connected,” explains Dr. Kourosh Edalati, psychiatrist and boulevardmagazines.com |

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medical director of Elumind Centres for Brain Excellence, a private outpatient brain health centre in North Vancouver. “We are outgrowing the stigma surrounding mental health…Look at tennis star Naomi Osaka. She courageously talked about her mental health struggles and everyone applauded her.”

He adds: “This realization allows us to bring mental health, which was in the background before, to the forefront, without feeling judged.”

Brain health relies on three pillars: healthy biology through positive sleep and nutritional habits, a positive social environment, and a sense of purpose. Interestingly, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated our need for physical, psychological and social well-being, intensifying the interest in brain health.

“The pandemic slowed everything down,” explains Kourosh. “It forced us to be much more reflective. Everyone really looked at their priorities and their real purpose of life while they were isolating.”

THE MIND-BODY CONNECTION Kourosh, a long-time practitioner of meditation, was first exposed to benefits of the mind-body connection when he was a young immunology student at McGill University. He noticed that certain foods had a major impact on his immune system, not only helping him fend off illness but also calming his mind.

“People around me nicknamed me the ‘Zen dude,’” he says.

After observing the connection between the domains of biology, psychology, spiritual beliefs and social networks, the psychiatry graduate from the University of British Columbia decided that a more comprehensive approach to healing the brain and the body was needed. In 2019, he opened his clinic, where he offers an integrated approach to brain health.

TMS is a targeted non-invasive treatment with very few adverse effects that allows us to get to the areas that need better blood flow.

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TMS (TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETIC STIMULATION)

TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)

During this Health Canada-approved procedure, an electromagnetic coil is placed against the scalp in the forehead region, where it painlessly delivers a magnetic pulse. This pulse is believed to stimulate or inhibit nerve cells in the region of your brain involved in mood, pain and cognitive control. TMS treatments for depression, for example, are typically administered over a six-week period, in five 10- to 40-minute weekday sessions. The cost, which is not yet covered by BC’s Medical Services Plan, is $220 per session for 30 sessions and includes the qEEG brain mapping.

“TMS is a targeted non-invasive treatment with very few adverse effects that allows us to get to the areas that need better blood flow,” says Kourosh. “This allows better regulation of neurotransmitter chemicals in that region through neuroplasticity and really alleviates the symptoms the patient may be experiencing.”

While the clinic treats patients of all ages except the very young, Kourosh says that the baby-boomer generation has been the most impacted by the lifting of the stigma surrounding mental health.

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“I now see baby boomer parents supporting young clients to come get help. It’s very refreshing.”

He congratulates those who search for ways to improve their mental and brain health, noting, “It’s a courageous journey, but a journey that has absolute wonders embedded in it.”

Wherever you may be on your own journey, brain mapping, TMS and other mental health-related services may help you better navigate your neural superhighway.

QEEG BRAIN MAPPING “When I discovered qEEG (quantitative electroencephalogram) brain mapping a few years ago, I saw the connection between biology and psychology beautifully displayed,” says Kourosh. qEEG brain mapping adds a quantitative dimension to an electroencephalogram (EEG) test. It painlessly captures electrical activity in the brain using small, metal discs (sensors) attached to a cap worn by the patient, then clinicians measure brainwaves and compare them against a database of conventionally functioning or “neurotypical” brains.

“When we do a qEEG map, we can relate biological processes to the brain’s electrical activity and display the relationship between the psychology and the biology, or lack thereof,” explains Kourosh. “qEEG brain mapping is a very objective process of showing areas of strength and deficiency.” qEEG brain mapping is just one of the services offered at Elumind clinic, where visits begin with a complete therapeutic assessment.

“We take an integrated approach with the assessment,” says Kourosh. “We look at every aspect of mental health including the spiritual aspect, make recommendations and then go with our patients’ preferences for treatment.”

qEEG brain mapping.

CHOOSING A BRAIN HEALTH CLINIC A reputable clinic should have a psychiatrist or clinical neuropsychologist on staff to interpret the results of patient assessments and testing.

“Many diagnoses share the same symptoms, so interpretation requires a trained eye,” says Kourosh. “For example, anxiety can look like depression, trauma can look like insomnia, and side effects of medication can present as ADHD or other mental focus issues.”

A psychiatrist can also clarify what (if any) medications could be useful for treatment, or in some cases eliminate the need for medication altogether by identifying possible therapeutic interventions that will specifically address the presenting issue successfully, he adds.

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VICTORIA’S FINEST REAL ESTATE

L U X U R Y AT YO U R D O O R S T E P

546 Taylor Road Metchosin, BC $9,600,000

Luxury Farm Estate on 18 acres of Oceanfront property. Private sanctuary allows a self-sufficient lifestyle. Updated main home is a renovated 1930 farmhouse, offering 4 beds, with an additional 1 bed suite below and a 2 bedroom barn for guests. Outside, resort style living, with 550 feet of low bank shoreline, expansive patios, gardens, walking trails, fruit trees and more.

One of a kind opportunity!.

249 King George Terrace Oak Bay, BC $10,500,000

‘Muir Haven’, a refuge by the sea! Sweeping water & mountain views from this architectural gem in Oak Bay. Panoramic water views from all principal rooms. With over 14,000 sq ft of designer living space, 5 beds, 10 baths, and a separate guest suite, there is ample room for friends and family to enjoy this stunning property. True resort style living, with a rec room, billiards room, movie theatre, gym, sauna and an outdoor pool, extensive patios, and beach access.

735 Humboldt Street, Victoria BC, Canada V8W 1B1

The local real estate agent with the international network: vi.evcanada.com Scott Piercy, Private Office Advisor Personal Real Estate Corporation 250-686-7789 scott.piercy@evcanada.com www.luxurybchomes.com victoria.evcanada.com

N807 737 Humboldt Street

4771 Timber Place

967 Osprey Drive

Chic urban living in the Aria. Sophisticated suite is flooded with natural light & large picture windows that frame ocean, mountain & city views. Designer interior blend style & comfort in this 2 bed, 2 bath condo. Outside, enjoy your spacious covered balcony & large private terrace with gardens. Building amenities include a concierge, gym, sauna, bike rooms & guest parking. Pets & rentals welcome.

Ocean front estate on a private cult-de-sac behind mature Cedar trees. Set on a half acre lot, this luxurious residence is a harmonious balance of style & comfort. Designer interior compliments the panoramic ocean and mountain views. With over 6,500 sq ft, this 7 bed, 5 bath home offers ample space for friends and family to enjoy. Low tides reveal a large sandy beach and tidal pools accessible from your private staircase.

West Coast custom built estate steps from the ocean! Perched on a 1+ acre lot, situated in the highly sought-after Marine View Estates in beautiful Maple Bay. An architect designed, 3 bed, 3 bath home with a modern interior and multiple sun soaked decks. Minutes away from the ocean, beaches, yacht club, rowing club, and plenty of biking and hiking nearby. A true West Coast gem.

1319 Champions Court

4276 Gordon Head Road

1004/1005 100 Saghalie Road

Custom designed estate overlooking the fairways at Bear Mountain. Desirable open-plan living encourages entertaining. This 3 bed, 3 bath home offers a gourmet kitchen with bar seating and a gorgeous formal dining room opening into an inviting living room with a fireplace and built-ins. Enjoy resort style living year round with ample outdoor living space and an abundance of amenities nearby.

Sizable Saanich property, steps from the ocean with exceptional development opportunity! Set in the sought after Gordon Head community.

Investors take note of the duplex status. This generously sized corner lot with R.D1 zoning affords the possibility of building two large homes (4,400 sq ft each). The existing home is a bright 3 bed/2 bath home with some updates & long term rental potential with great cash flow.

Executive, custom designed penthouse suite in the highly sought after Bayview One. This 3 bed, 3 bath 2,000+ square foot residence is appointed with the highest quality finishings and the most spectacular views of the ocean, mountains and downtown Victoria. Building amenities include a gym, spa, steam rooms, business centre, meeting rooms, outdoor lounge, bbq and firepit and more!

Victoria, BC $1,499,999

Cordova Bay, BC $3,500,000

Langford, BC $2,750,000

Duncan, BC $1,089,000

Saanich, BC $1,799,000

Victoria, BC $2,799,000

2249 Oak Bay Avenue, Victoria BC, Canada V8R 1G4

The local real estate agent with the international network: vi.evcanada.com James LeBlanc, Private Office Advisor Personal Real Estate Corporation 250-812-7212 james.leblanc@evcanada.com www.luxurybchomes.com victoria.evcanada.com

The Show Stoppers BROUGHT TO YOU BY JASON BINAB

After more than 17 years of working in Real Estate in Victoria, Jason has had the privilege of working with many wonderful people in the community.

He considers it an honour to serve our incredible city and sell some of the most beautiful properties in the area. While each property has its unique charm, there are always a few that stand out from the crowd. These are a few of Jason’s current show-stopping listings!

376 KING GEORGE TERR ACE OB GONZ ALES | $ 3,888,000 4 BEDS | 4 BATHS 3,427 SQ . F T. | 6,360 SQ . F T. LOT

45 KING GEORGE TERR ACE OB GONZ ALES | $ 3,788,000 4 BEDS | 4 BATHS 3,113 SQ . F T. | 11,676 SQ . F T. LOT

435 CHADWICK PL ACE VI FAIRFIELD E AS T | $ 3,000,000 3 BEDS | 4 BATHS 3,783 SQ . F T. | 6,757 SQ . F T. LOT

CUS TOMS HOUSE AT 888 GOVERNMENT S TREE T UNITS S TAR TING AT $2,949,000

Let’s Work Together JASON BINAB *

JASON.BINAB@THEAGENCYRE.COM 250.589.2466 *PERSONAL RE AL ES TATE CORPOR ATION

E XPLORE RE AL ESTATE AT THE AGENCYRE.COM 3350 WE ALD ROAD OB UPL ANDS | $5,998,000 7 BEDS | 8 BATHS 5,705 SQ . F T. | 17,727 SQ . F T. LOT

101-960 YATES STREET, VICTORIA, BC V8V 3M3 AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATES LICENSEE OF UMRO REALTY CORP

LOCAL AGENTS, 48+ OFFICES | 5 COUNTRIES LUXURY REAL ESTATE AT THEAGENCYRE.COM AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED LICENSEE OF UMRO REALTY CORP

GLOBAL REACH | 1 CONNECTED COMMUNITY 778.265.5552 | @THEAGENCYVICTORIA

1755 W. Shawnigan Lake Rd – $3,750,000

MAGICAL SHAWNIGAN LAKEFRONT

Beautiful 4 bedrm home steps from sheltered swimming area with 2 docks & covered Seedoo/boat storage, private boat ramp, covered boat lift & new 1400sqft steel ‘shop’

3005 Rutland Road – $4,990,000

GORGEOUS UPLANDS

5-6 bedrm/6 bth residence exquisitely upgraded, stunning .62 acre property adjoining Uplands Park. Enjoy total privacy & sunny S/W exposure, just steps from beach access

403-847 Dunsmuir Rd – $1,925,000

2898 Mt. Baker View Rd – $6,880,000

EXCLUSIVE 10 MILE POINT WATERFRONT

Immaculate & beautifully upgraded 5100sqft, 5 bed/4 bth westcoast home on a private, gated 1.3 acre property. Incredible views, plus a swimming pool at the water’s edge

SWALLOW’S LANDING

Stunning unobstructed views from this fabulous 2 bed & den condo, gorgeous new kitchen & ensuite bath. Unique 2 storey design in a premier location, steps from the waterfront

3155 Beach Dr. – $13,195,000

3708 Arbutus Ridge – $2,450,000 SO

10 MILE POINT EXECUTIVE

Quiet, park-like .8 acre property with sunny exposure. Unique & spacious 6 bed/4 bth design & over 3600sqft with lots of upgrades; a peaceful oasis just steps from parks & trails

LD

PREMIER UPLANDS WATERFRONT ESTATE

Spectacular 12,000sqft residence on a private, gated 1.67 acre property.

JUST SOLD - HIGHEST RESIDENTIAL SALE EVER RECORDED ON MLS

250-514-1966 DIRECT

lisawilliams.ca * Pe r s o n a l R e a l E s t a t e C o r p o r a t i o n

The Ultimate Lifestyle 4035 Locarno Lane, Victoria

$8,777,000

Locarno Lane offers the discerning buyer a work/live retreat to de-stress & revive in a private gated 1 acre oceanfront estate with 300 degrees of uninterrupted ocean & island vistas. Energizing & alluring, the incredible 6,044 sq.ft. custom home snugs almost 370 ft of rocky shoreline. Encapsulating the paradise that is Vancouver Island.

SOLD

306-1655 Begbie Street

$599,000

This sunny, southeast-facing 2-bedroom condo has been transformed by the current owners and offers a peaceful garden courtyard view. Steps from Oak Bay and Fernwood Villages and the vibrant downtown core, this is the perfect location to take advantage of all that Victoria has to offer.

Sunny Oak Bay

Prestigious Ardmore

Tranquility in the City 9723 Glenelg Avenue

$1,875,000 2149 Lansdowne Road

This beautifully landscaped property offers an idyllic exposure on a sunny, gently sloping .85 acre lot in a very desirable neighbourhood of fine homes. The tudor-style front facade conceals an unconventional and inviting open plan layout which is sun-splashed by a large centrally located skylight.

$2,258,000

This 1950’s gem has seen many updates and enjoys an idyllic warm, southerly exposure with dramatic Olympic mountain, City and ocean views from all primary rooms.

Generous living room with huge picture windows & main floor primary bedroom with spa-like retreat.

“We believe every home is a mansion regardless of size, location or price.”

MACLEOD GROUP Kirsten MacLeod

Shaelyn Mattix

Glynis MacLeod

Sales Associate

Sales Associate

Personal Real Estate Corporation

250.686.3385

250.908.0184

250.661.7232

macleod-group.com

macleodgroup@sothebysrealty.ca

sothebysrealty.ca

Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Independently Owned and Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective Purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal.

CARROLL GROUP Alex Carroll PREC

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

alexcarroll@evrealestate.com

250 889 9060

3901 Tudor Avenue SE Ten Mile Point – $6,499,000

One of the finest waterfront properties on Southern Vancouver Island. Located on prestigious Ten Mile Point, 3901 Tudor Avenue boasts 150 feet of south-facing low bank waterfront and what could be considered the best view in Victoria. Opportunities for a world-class home are endless with rarely seen acreage and flat and level yard spaces.

SO

LD

785 Murphy Place SE Cordova Bay – $2,099,000

An expansive executive home on a private cul-de-sac in Cordova Bay. 785 Murphy Place has room for the whole family and designer finishes throughout. The open concept kitchen, dining, and living spaces flow seamlessly between one another and naturally expand onto a south-facing wraparound outdoor living space.

4601 Seawood Terrace SE Gordon Head – $1,955,000

Executive west coast contemporary home in Gordon Head with stunning ocean views.

Originally designed in the 1970’s this 6 bedroom home has been renovated to a contemporary standard. The chef’s kitchen, dining area, and formal living space are all placed to take advantage of expansive views of the Salish Sea.

SO

LD

779 Cains Way SK East Sooke – $1,599,000

An executive home perched high on Mt Matheson in East Sooke. 779 Cains Way is an as new home in one of the West Coast’s most magnificent natural settings. Attention to detail and build quality is evident throughout. On the main level, the spacious principal rooms take advantage of the westward treetop views over the Sooke Basin.

Licensee of Engel & Völkers Canada, Inc. 735 Humboldt Street, Victoria 250-889-9060 | alex.carroll@evrealestate.com carrollgroup.evrealestate.com | alexcarroll.ca

Your Specialist in Saanich & Oak Bay

8224 West Saanich Road CS Inlet – $1,799,900

The peace and tranquility of the country with the refinements of modern living. 8224 West Saanich is a beautifully renovated west coast home with a charming country feel set on an exceedingly private 31,000 sq. ft. lot. Boasting over 3600 sq. ft. of living space this 5 bedroom home can be configured in a variety of ways and offers flexibility for all kinds of families and couples.

SO

LD

2533 Margate Avenue OB South Oak Bay – $1,349,000

Opportunity abounds in South Oak Bay. Set in one of the most advantageous sections of Oak Bay, 2533 Margate is equidistant from Windsor Park, the Oak Bay Marina, and the Victoria Golf Club. The 1928 home is chockfull of character details consistent with the era including oak and fir flooring with inlays, generous living and dining spaces, and a decorative archway in the main hall.

3433 Drinkwater Road

NEW LISTING

3433 Drinkwater Road

NEW LISTING

COWICHAN VALLEY | $2,699,000 3 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 2,785 SQ. FT. | 3.9 ACRE LOT

COWICHAN VALLEY | $2,699,000 3 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 2,785 SQ. FT. | 3.9 ACRE LOT

Sleek details – this stunning residence focuses on a connection to tradition with the flair of a modern country farmhouse. Set on 3.9 level acres with spectacular views of Mt. Prevost. There is custom cabinetry in every room, 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, custom home office, custom media room, fully landscaped and powered electric gates. Massive detached shop has room for all the toys, cars, boats or whatever you need secure space for. This new home is ready for your family to move in now!

Sleek details – this stunning residence focuses on a connection to tradition with the flair of a modern country farmhouse. Set on 3.9 level acres with spectacular views of Mt. Prevost.

There is custom cabinetry in every room, 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, custom home office, custom media room, fullyTHEAGENCYRE.COM/VANCOUVER-ISLAND landscaped and powered electric BRIAN DANYLIW* gates.

Massive detached shop has room for all the toys, cars, boats or whatever you need secure space for. This new home is ready for your family to move in now!

BRIAN.DANYLIW@THEAGENCYRE.COM 725 CANADA AVENUE, DUNCAN C 250.710.6844 BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA V9L 1V1 O 250.710.8779 AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED LICENSEE OF UMRO REALTY CORP BRIAN DANYLIW* BRIAN.DANYLIW@THEAGENCYRE.COM C 250.710.6844 O 250.710.8779

*PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION THEAGENCYRE.COM/VANCOUVER-ISLAND

725 CANADA AVENUE, DUNCAN BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA V9L 1V1 AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED LICENSEE OF UMRO REALTY CORP *PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

when others see a

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KRISTA V AND MARK G TEAM

Krista Voitchovsky, Real Estate Advisor 250-888-3256 | krista@kristav.ca

Mark Gutknecht, Real Estate Advisor 250-880-1000 | mark.gutknecht@engelvoelkers.com www.kristavmarkg.ca

W G! E N TIN LIS

824-21 Dallas Rd, Shoal Point in James Bay | $1,799,000 2 bd, 3 bath, 1741 Sqft.

AMAZING VIEWS from all main rooms and your large covered balcony at the iconic Shoal Point!

This thoughtfully laid out 2 bed, 3 bath condo has hardwood floors throughout and lots of natural light. Both bedrooms have their own ensuites (Primary with heated floors). The open layout with the kitchen(heated floors), dining and living room is great for entertaining or just enjoying your space.

The living room is graced with a gas fireplace and an alcove for extra seating or perhaps a piano? The office has cork flooring and a floor to ceiling window. A laundry/utility room and 2pce powder room complete the layout. All closets have quality organizers and this unit has Air Conditioning. Shoal Point is located close to Fisherman’s Wharf and Park, restaurants, shopping and Dallas Road ocean walkway. Enjoy the many amenities including a 25M lap pool, fitness centre, sauna, steam jacuzzi, concierge, 2 guest suites, workshop & library. Friday night socials to meet your neighbours!

LD O S

980 Greenridge Crescent, Saanich East, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms $1,090,000

2249 Oak Bay Avenue, Victoria, BC V8R 1G4 • Office +1 778-433-8885

Helping you make the right decision.

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Your home is more important than ever…

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Better together

We are thrilled to announce The Properties in Victoria Professionals™ Real Estate Team has joined forces with The Modern Real Estate Team. Let’s strategize your next move together. team@modernrev.com

office: 778 432 4611

modernrev.com

theagencyre.com 960 Yates St #101, Victoria, BC 778.265.5552

Welcome to the Hudson, one of Victoria’s most iconic and historically rich buildings. This 2 bed,2 bath+den penthouse boasts southwesterly views to the ocean, both harbours, and mountains beyond. A designer kitchen is fitted with upscale integrated appliances, w/gas range and built in coffee system.

Dark hardwood floors sprawl throughout. 10’ ceilings give a spacious feeling to the open concept living/dining area, w/floor to ceiling windows letting an abundance of light in. Here you will find access to your large, full sun deck.

RYAN MESSER, REALTOR® 250-938-5609

THE HUDSON 606 - 770 FISGARD STREET, VICTORIA • 2 BED, 2 BATH AND DEN

ryan.messer@theagencyre.com

$1,488,000

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CHARMING COUNTRY FARM Meander down the long country driveway and you’ll come across a 6 stall barn, 2 fenced hay fields, a 24’ x 24’ workshop/garage, plus there is an impressive 962 sq.ft. manufactured home completely rebuilt in 2019.

The updates are significant and well thought out. At the back of the home is a stunning pond …all this and more on 3.75 acres.

ALEXANDRA DAWES

RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL Gautam Arora

Alexandra Dawes, CPA

Real Estate Advisor

137-1325 Bear Mountain Parkway, Victoria 1 778-433-8885 | Cell: 1 250-710-7311 www.alexandrarealestate.ca alexandra.dawes@evrealestate.com

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Licenced Realtor, Pemberton Holmes

Established 1887

Gautam Arora Personal Realestate Corporation 250.384.8124 | Arorarealty.org

101-960 YATES STREET, VICTORIA, BC V8V 3M3 AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATES LICENSEE OF UMRO REALTY CORP

Briggs & Stratton and Associates Reach out to work with our knowledgeable team of Real Estate Professionals

Sophia Briggs

861 NOSE POINT RD | SALT SPRING | $1,925,000 2 BEDS + LOFT | 3 BATHS | 2,990 SQ. FT. | 1.6 ACRE LOT

Nancy Stratton

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION Sophia.Briggs@TheAgencyRE.com 250.418.5569

REALTOR® Nancy.Stratton@TheAgencyRE.com 250.857.5482

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Erin Smith

REALTOR® Rebecca.Barritt@TheAgencyRE.com 250.514.9024

Featured Listings

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Kawther Sidhoum

178-3501 DUNLIN ST | ROYAL BAY | $949,000 3 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 1,466 SQ. FT. | 1,466 SQ. FT. LOT

REALTOR® Kawther.Sidhoum@TheAgencyRE.com 250.217.3476

250.592.1042 | BRIGGSANDSTRATTONREALTORS.COM

3912 ASCOT DR | CEDAR HILL | $1,198,000 4 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 2,830 SQ. FT. | 10,437 SQ. FT. LOT PENDING

ANDREW WADE Mortgage Broker

CELL 250.886.1956 Andrew@modernmortagegroup.ca FAX 250.590.3519 FindMeAMortgage.ca

food and feast

Miso Glazed Salmon Brain Bowls.

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i Nourish your noggin Ingenious ingredients to create food for the brain WORDS ELLIE SHORTT

X

PHOTOGRAPHY DON DENTON

t’s 10 am. You’re staring at a computer screen seemingly floating in and out of consciousness as you struggle to type out another report and send off another email. Why won’t the words come to you? Why does your mind keep going blank? Why is your memory failing and your thoughts escaping?

You think back to your breakfast of an unremarkable pastry and sour coffee from the anonymous café in the lobby of your office building and wonder, “Could that be contributing to this baffling brain fog?” Endless research, thousands of scientific papers and a seeming consensus across wellness approaches, cultural perspectives and ancestral practices say a resounding yes!

Long have traditional communities recognized the power of food for body, mind and spirit, and now western scientific approaches are beginning to catch up with some impressive studies that would humble even the most skeptical naysayers. Specifically, researchers are finding that foods rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, as well as certain vitamins and minerals (vitamin K, folate, and iron, to name a few), provide your brain with energy and aid in protecting brain cells, which may ward off the potential development of certain brain diseases.

Equally as important, a well-functioning digestive system is seemingly essential for cognitive health, whereby a number of hormones and neurotransmitters are created in the gut and are then able to enter the brain, which influences things like memory and concentration. With research in areas of chronic and systemic inflammation growing, scientists keep finding evidence to prove that highly processed diets rich in pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids release inflammatory cytokines, which can ultimately damage the brain when in excess, and have been linked to a number of mental and cognitive conditions, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

And now you might be wondering, “That’s great and all, but what does all that mean for my day-to-day dietary choices?” Well, if you’re wanting to translate all this biology classroom jargon into a grocery list, I’ve provided a list of some (of many) cognitively friendly foods. I’ve also included three of my personal go-tos for meal time, snack time and drink time, when it comes to brain-boosting deliciousness.

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Researchers are finding that foods rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, as well as certain vitamins and minerals… provide your brain with energy and aid in protecting brain cells, which may ward off the potential development of certain brain diseases.

But before I get into the details, I should take this opportunity to once again remind readers that I am a certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and have worked with dozens of clients in clinical practice. I remind anyone needing to hear this that when talking about nourishing foods, it’s imperative to avoid a discourse of guilt, judgment or shame regarding food choices. Similarly, it’s arguably unwise to think of certain ingredients as magical cure-alls for an illness or disease. If you’re wanting to work on something specific when it comes to your diet and wellness, I encourage you to reach out to a certified or licensed professional, understanding that every

body is different and will require different approaches and paces.

With that said, incorporating some of the following foods and recipes rotationally into your routine is certainly not a bad place to start if you’re looking for a happier body and healthier brain. And even if you’re not, at the very least they’ll please your taste buds, as all edible delights should in my humble (and professional) opinion.

So with that said, have a look at the following, maybe even try your hand at the recipes on offer, and as you do, take a moment to consider how remarkable these gifts from nature are in all their delicious complexity and yummy nourishment.

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BRAIN-FRIENDLY FOODS TO TRY TODAY:

SALMON:

Not only does salmon offer a major hit of protein, which is essential for optimal cognitive function, omega-3-rich foods like salmon have also been shown to increase the efficiency of various brain operations, including improved memory, while also reducing systemic inflammation. In fact, some preliminary studies even suggest that long-term omega-3 supplementation can help prevent and treat Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s symptoms, both of which have been linked to chronic inflammatory damage.

EGGS:

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Eggs, in particular the yolks, not only provide your protein-hungry brain with high-quality, easily assimilated protein, they also contain almost unparalleled levels of carotenoids, a type of antioxidant compound that can help protect against oxidative damage to brain cells.

BUCKWHEAT:

This nutrient-dense ancient grain is packed with polyphenols, which are disease-fighting antioxidants. Rutin, one antioxidant found within buckwheat, in particular has proven promising in recent studies regarding Alzheimer’s prevention and treatment. Buckwheat is also an easily digestible complex carbohydrate that is also gluten free. With increasing correlations between brain fog and gluten, many folks seeking a healthier brain often benefit from avoiding or reducing gluten in their diet.

AVOCADOS:

Containing both vitamin K and folate, avocados may help prevent blood clots in the brain (protecting against stroke), and help improve brain functions related to memory and concentration. The healthy fats contained within avocado are also some of the brain’s most favoured forms of fuel.

BEETS:

Beets are some of the most nutritious foods for the brain that you can eat; they help reduce inflammation, are high in cancer-protecting antioxidants, and help rid your blood of toxins (which can collect in the brain).

The natural nitrates in beets actually boost blood flow to the brain, helping with mental performance.

BROCCOLI:

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Along with other cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, kale and Brussels sprouts, broccoli is one of the best brain-healthy foods out there, thanks to its high levels of vitamin K and choline, which can help keep your memory sharp.

RAW COCOA:

Raw high-quality cocoa is full of flavanols, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Studies show cocoa can increase cerebral blood flow and cerebral blood oxygenation, plus it can help lower blood pressure and oxidative stress in the brain and heart.

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Seafood Paella Blueberry Ginger Brain-Aid.

WALNUTS:

With their substantial omega-3 levels and decent protein content, walnut benefits for the brain include supporting memory and thought processing, with recent studies suggesting prevention and treatment of conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

SPIRULINA:

Preliminary studies of this blue-green algae hold promising results for conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia, with one study even finding that a spirulina-enhanced diet given to rats provided neuroprotection with regards to Parkinson’s disease. Spirulina is being explored for heavy metal toxicity, which is a potential cause of cognitive decline, memory loss, and mood and personality disturbances.

CHIA SEEDS:

Rich in omega-3s, packed with protein and full of fibre, chia seeds are great for the brain, the gut and everything in between. Chia seeds may also help in blood sugar management, which is good news for your brain, as blood sugar spikes have been shown to diminish cognitive function, decrease memory and lead to systemic inflammation in the body.

BLUEBERRIES (AND OTHER BERRIES):

Blueberries have one of the highest antioxidant levels of all known foods, and also contain substantial levels of vitamin C and vitamin K. Blueberries are especially good at protecting our brains from degeneration, cognitive decline and stress due to their high levels of gallic acid.

Serves 6-8 ⁄4 tsp saffron 1 lb white fish (lingcod or rockfish), cut into 2” pieces 1 ⁄4 cup high heat oil (canola or grapeseed) 8 head on spot prawns 1 ⁄2 lb squid or octopus, thinly sliced 1 Tbsp smoked paprika 1

4 roma tomatoes, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 bell pepper, diced 1 onion, diced 7 cups flavourful stock 2 1⁄2 cups paella rice 1 ⁄2 lb clams or mussels

1) Place saffron in 1⁄4 cup of hot water and allow to steep.

Season the fish with salt and pepper. Place your pan over medium/high heat and add the oil. Sear the fish and prawns in the oil allowing it to brown. You do not need to worry about cooking through at this point.

2) Once the fish has colour remove it from the pan and set aside. Add the squid, peppers, onions, garlic, and paprika and cook about 5-6 minutes until soft.

3) Add saffron water and broth, bring it to a boil, and season well. Sprinkle rice over the broth and stir to incorporate.

THIS IS THE LAST TIME YOU WILL STIR THIS DISH. Sprinkle tomatoes over the rice and cook for 10-12 minutes still on medium/high heat. If your pan is larger than your heat source move the pan around a few times to ensure that it cooks evenly.

4) Reduce the heat to low, add the seared white fish. Place the clams or mussels in the rice hinge side down so they can easily open. Cook for another 5-10 minutes over low heat until liquid is fully absorbed and shellfish pops open.

Remove from the heat, add prawns, and cover with foil for 5 minutes before eating.

GREEN TEA:

Research shows that regular green tea consumption helps limit the breakdown of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter strongly linked with memory, and drinking green tea also inhibits enzymes known as BuChE and beta-secretase, which are found in protein deposits found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

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Coco Spirulina Brain Bars Cook time: about 10 minutes, plus overnight setting time Makes about 16 bars Ingredients 2 loose cups soft, pitted dates ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk ½ cup almond butter ½ cup coconut oil, melted 2 tsp pure vanilla extract ¼ cup collagen powder 1 ⁄3 cup raw cocoa powder 3 tbsp spirulina powder 2 tbsp chia seeds 1 tbsp cinnamon ¼ tsp sea salt 2 cups old fashioned rolled oats ½ raw walnut pieces ½ cup dried goji berries Directions Grease a 9-inch square pan with a small amount of coconut oil and line with an overhanging strip of parchment paper for easy removal. In a high-powered food processor, blend the dates, milk, almond butter, coconut oil and vanilla until smooth.

Add the collagen, spirulina, cocoa, salt and cinnamon and blend until fully integrated. Blend in the chia seeds and oats until well combined. Pulse in the walnuts and gojis until well integrated.

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Coco Spirulina Brain Bars.

Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan, and flatten and smooth down the top with your palm.

Allow it to set in the fridge overnight, then carefully remove from the pan (I like to loosen the sides with a dull knife, and then flip it upside down onto a cutting board), peel back the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Store in fridge or freezer in an airtight container.

Blueberry Ginger Brain-Aid Cook time: About 30 minutes Makes about 3 ½ cups of mixture that can be diluted with still or sparkling water to your flavour preference Ingredients 1 ⁄3 cup raw honey ¼ cup high-quality green tea leaves Large piece ginger (about 2 inches), peeled and sliced 1 cup fresh blueberries ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice Water (both boiling and cold) Directions In a small saucepan, combine the honey, 1 cup water and ginger slices. Bring to a boil and then turn immediately down to a simmer, letting it steep for about 20 minutes. Place the blueberries and one half cup of water in a blender. Blend on medium-high speed for about 1 minute, until the blueberries are completely pureed (it might be a bit jelly-like—don’t worry, this is normal).

Steep the green tea in 1 cup of boiling water for 3 minutes (*do not over-steep!).

Combine the steeped green tea, honey ginger water and blended blueberries in a large jug or container. Add in the lemon juice and then strain the entire mixture through a fine mesh sieve into another jug or container. Store the mixture in the fridge, pour over ice, and top up with still or sparkling water to your liking.

CUSTOM HOME BUILDER RENOVATIONS

Blueberry Ginger Brain-Aid.

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Miso Glazed Salmon Brain Bowls Prep time: 30 minutes Makes about 2 servings

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Ingredients 1 package 100% whole buckwheat soba noodles (about 220 grams) 2 medium-large fillets of wild salmon (I used sockeye here) 3 tbsp Shiro miso 3 tbsp pure maple syrup 1 tbsp plum vinegar 1 tsp tamari sauce 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice 2 cloves garlic, peeled 1 large chunk of ginger, peeled (about 1-2 inches’ worth) 2 small-medium beets, peeled and cut into wedges 4 stalks broccolini 1 large bunch spinach, thoroughly rinsed and dried 2 medium boiled (or “6-minute”) eggs ½ cup edamame, peeled (you can purchase frozen and defrost before using) 1 large avocado, peeled and sliced 2 small-medium radishes, trimmed and thinly sliced 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced Extra virgin olive oil (you’ll need about 1 cup, divided throughout) Optional garnish of sesame seeds

Directions Preheat your oven to 400 F and line three baking sheets with parchment paper (one for the salmon, one for the beets and one for the broccolini). Cook the buckwheat soba as per the instructions on the package and set aside.

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Shiro miso, maple syrup, plum vinegar and tamari sauce until smooth, and set aside one quarter to be used for the dressing. Place the salmon in a medium baking dish and coat evenly with the remaining miso sauce.

Cover the baking dish and place the salmon in the fridge while it marinades. *Note: this can be done overnight.

Take the remaining miso sauce and combine it in a small blender with the lemon juice, garlic, ginger and 6 tbsp olive oil. Blend until smooth and set aside.

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, toss the beets with 1 tbsp olive oil and a light sprinkling of salt and pepper. Place them on one of your pre-prepared baking sheets and bake for 30 minutes until soft and tender, turning once or twice as they roast. Once cooked to your liking, set aside.

Meanwhile, place the broccolini on another pre-prepared baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tbsp of olive oil, sprinkling with a pinch of

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Miso Glazed Salmon Brain Bowls.

salt and pepper, and bake for 15 minutes until cooked through and slightly crispy, turning once as they roast. Once cooked to your liking, set aside.

Once the salmon has been marinating for at least 30 minutes, place the fillets on the third prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes until the salmon is tender and flaky when pulled apart with a fork (but not over-cooked and dry). Once cooked to your liking, set aside.

In a saucepan over medium heat, sauté the spinach with about 1 tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper until soft.

Remove from the heat and set aside.

When ready to plate, place a large handful of soba noodles into the centre of two medium-sized bowls. On top of the soba, arrange your broccolini (about 2 stalks per bowl), beets (about 4 wedges per bowl), spinach (a small handful per bowl), a few slices of cucumber, a few slices of radish, one egg cut in half, about a quarter cup of edamame, and a salmon fillet.

Drizzle with a generous serving of the miso-ginger dressing and garnish with a sprinkling of sesame seeds (serve at room temperature or cold).

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travel

Walks and wine in Madeira A visit to the world’s top island destination

BY SUZANNE MORPHET

Madeira coastline.

PHOTO BY HENRIQUE SERUCA, COURTESY VISIT MADEIRA

CREATING A SPACE THAT IS UNIQUELY YOURS For seven years running, it has beat out higher-profile islands like Hawaii, Fiji and Seychelles in the World Travel Awards, considered the “Oscars of tourism” by the travel industry.

| ESTABLISHED IN 1980 |

O

f all the islands in the world, who would have guessed that tiny Madeira, best known for its fortified sweet wine, would become the world’s leading island destination?

Yet for seven years running, it has beat out higher-profile islands like Hawaii, Fiji and Seychelles in the World Travel Awards, considered the “Oscars of tourism” by the travel industry.

About two hours by plane from Lisbon (Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal), this volcanic island in the Atlantic doesn’t even have natural sand beaches.

So what’s the draw?

Partly, it’s the other natural assets—mountains, forests and sea. And partly, it’s because Madeirans have (to borrow from the French) the savoir faire to look after their guests. As they should; they’ve been welcoming tourists for almost 300 years.

European visitors first came in the mid-18th century to be cured of tuberculosis while convalescing in the island’s sub-tropical climate. Soon, writers and aristocrats, poets and politicians followed, relaxing in stylish hotels such as Reid’s Palace, where Winston Churchill wrote his memoirs and George Bernard Shaw learned to tango.

Even during the pandemic, tourism has continued to evolve, with younger, more active visitors arriving, attracted

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Wine tasting at Quinta Do Barbusano.

PHOTO BY SUZANNE MORPHET

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PHOTO BY JOSE MENDES, COURTESY VISIT MADEIRA

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Outdoor fu rnitu r e has ar rived!

New shipment of fountains, fiberglass and ceramic planters.

by outdoor adventures from canyoning (exploring canyons by rappelling and jumping) and coasteering (traversing a rocky coastline by swimming and jumping), to mountain biking and surfing.

What grabbed my attention when I visited were the almost unparalleled opportunities for walking.

First, there are the levadas. These are stone channels built by hand beginning in the 15th century to transfer water from the wet side of the island to the dry side. This vast network is still used today and running alongside each of them are footpaths open to anyone.

Then there are other trails that locals created to get around on foot long before roads were built, including shepherd’s trails.

“Imagine a big grid over the island,” says Fabio Castro, who traded his desk job to become a certified mountain guide, as we follow a well-trod trail one misty morning. “Trails crisscross it.”

Some trails lead hikers to the highest point on the island, Pico Ruivo, at 1,862 metres. Other trails and levadas cut through the Laurisilva—a laurel forest so rare it’s been given UNESCO World Heritage status. The mature, ecologically rich forest is the largest surviving laurel forest in the world.

Fabio says there are 5,000 kilometres of trails altogether on Madeira, including 3,400 kilometres along levadas.

“You could do 10 days of hiking, staying at different hotels and mountain huts each night,” he adds.

My half-day hike with Fabio began along a levada high above a valley dotted with red-tiled houses and terraced farm crops, including sugarcane, once the economic engine of Madeira.

Turning off, we follow another trail to a ridge with dizzying dropoffs. The green coastline spreads out before us. Mist swirls and dark clouds gather on the horizon. Far below, waves break against the rocky shoreline.

“Smell this,” says Fabio, breaking my nature-induced reverie.

“Does this smell like mojitos?”

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MAY 17—JUNE 12, 2022 WORLD PREMIERE

A fairy tale for adults.

Climbing to one of Madeira’s highest peaks at sunrise is a popular experience.

PHOTO COURTESY VISIT MADEIRA.

Pay What You 250-385-6815 Want Tickets belfry.bc.ca ROSA DOLORES – PLAYWRIGHT | LAUREN TAYLOR – DIRECTOR | PAM JOHNSON - PRODUCTION DESIGNER EMILY FRIESEN - COSTUME DESIGNER | BRAD TRENAMAN - LIGHTING DESIGNER | MARY JANE COOMBER - SOUND DESIGNER | LIAM KEARNS - STAGE MANAGER | BECCA JORGENSEN – ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER PRODUCTION SPONSOR

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It’s mint, of course, and it thrives in the island’s rich soil, along with a Noah’s ark of plants that sailors brought from every corner of the planet during the Age of Discovery.

“We have dandelions that look like palm trees,” Fabio laughs after I exclaim over the size of the heathers.

Something else that flourishes are grapes, the basis of that famous Madeira wine. A decanter sits on my bedside table at Reid’s Palace, but I didn’t know the story behind it until I went on a walking food and wine tour with Sofia Maul in Funchal, Madeira’s capital.

Sofia tells us that winemakers in the late 15th century couldn’t understand why their wine tasted better after it had spent months on ships at sea, often crossing the equator.

“At first they thought it was the motion,” and they wanted to duplicate the conditions so they could make it faster and cheaper.

“So,” she grins, “you’d have 12 men rocking these barrels backwards and forwards.”

When that didn’t work, they tried subjecting the wine to heat and oxygen. Bingo!

“And this is why you will never find Madeira wine aging in a cellar,” Sofia smiles as we sip three-year-old medium-dry and sweet wine at Blandy’s Wine Lodge, which is housed in a former Franciscan monastery from the 16th century. “It’s always kept in the warmest rooms in the house.”

In the same way tour operators are finding new adventures to keep active guests amused, winemakers are creating new wines.

One day we drive to the north coast to Quinta do Barbusano, a winery named for one of the island’s species of laurel trees. Stone walls divide the steep slope into small terraces,

where vines grow on overhead trellises. Sheep graze beneath the still-bare branches, eating weeds and fertilizing the vines with their manure. The grapes are laboriously picked by hand here, just like everywhere else on the island.

Inside the glass-walled tasting room, we sample whites, reds and rosé.

“Our soil is volcanic so it’s normal that this composition is transmitted to our wine,” explains our hostess, noting the acidic tones along with the fragrance of apple, pineapple and passion fruit.

Later, she suggests a crisp white to wash down our lunch of salty, smoky espetada—beef skewered on laurel branches, then barbecued.

After lunch I bask in the sun and admire the extraordinary view. A chapel with a clock tower stands out on a distant hilltop, framed by mountains. It’s a chapel Sofia Maul told us about earlier.

“It was built entirely by women,” she had said.

“The women promised that if the men came back safe from the First World War, they would build a chapel that could be seen and heard from the whole valley.”

Now that I think of it, it’s not so surprising that Madeira has been repeatedly chosen as the world’s leading island. Madeirans, it seems, can do anything they put their minds to.

For more information, see visitmadeira.com

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secrets and lives —

AND THE 7 SINS WITH CAITLIN MCKENZIE

After spending 15 years away from the family business, Caitlin McKenzie took the reins as CEO for Monk Office in the middle of 2018, marking the third generation of the family to head up the company.

Caitlin, who grew up in Victoria, started in the business dusting shelves and sweeping as a kid when her father had to go into the office, and eventually graduated to working Saturdays in the retail stores once she turned 13.

“I continued to work in office retail stores until past graduation, and then I did a few years full time. And then my dad said I had to leave, because if Monk was ever going to be a part of my future, I needed to have some outside experience that I could bring back and be of value,” she says.

Caitlin worked as an assistant to a life insurance agent and as a cashier for Thrifty Foods for a number of years.

Then she worked with Oak Bay Marine Group, which took her to the Bahamas to help run a boutique hotel there.

And then in 2016 a job opportunity opened up with Monk’s school supply program.

“I could see myself in that role and it was an opportunity to get my foot back in the door at Monk,” she says. Caitlin applied, interviewed and got the job, leading to what she calls a “challenging year.”

WORDS ANGELA COWAN

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PHOTOGRAPHY LIA CROWE

“From a personal standpoint, I was going through a lot in my life, not really knowing where I belonged or what I should be doing, and I wanted to see if Monk Office was going to be a part of my future,” she explains.

She admits that she hadn’t expected at the time to be where she is now, but a conversation over martinis with her dad in 2018 put her on the spot.

“He says ‘the time has come and I have two questions for you: do you want the job, and do you think you can do it?’ I was terrified,” says Caitlin with a laugh, “because I would never want to take on something with this kind of legacy behind it without genuinely and confidently thinking I could do it. But by the end of that martini, the answer was yes to both of them.”

Once at the helm, Caitlin re-established a strong family-minded culture within the business and then successfully—though not without stress—navigated the pandemic and its fallout.

And then in January of this year, Caitlin had the opportunity to carry on another legacy when Monk purchased Island Blue Art and Framing from the retiring Shemilt family. Island Blue, which first began as a map-making company in 1912, has a long and respected history in the local community, and to be able to safeguard its future was hugely important to Caitlin and Monk Office.

“To know that we were going to stay true to our promises to the Shemilt family, and integrate Island Blue Art and Framing into the Monk Office family and maintain a presence on the island, was very satisfying,” says Caitlin. “If you’re from Victoria you know how important supporting local is, and it’s worth its weight in gold to maintain those relationships and those connections to the community. Island Blue has certainly been a bright light for us. It was a long time coming.”

GLUTTONY:

What is the food you could eat over and over again?

Mashed potatoes. Thick, creamy (but not whipped!), riddled with butter, garlic, salt and pepper, and some cream cheese in there.

GREED:

You’re given $1 million that you have to spend selfishly. What would you spend it on?

A weekly delivery service of fresh flowers, a piece of jewellery—likely a ring—and three extended vacations. One to Europe and the UK, one to South America and one to the Bahamas. Each of those areas of the world offer me different, but important things I need in my life: non-judgmental culture, my heritage and heat.

WRATH:

Pet peeves?

Loud yawns and people talking through their yawns! If you’re not sitting next to a person when you hear them yawning you can never tell if they’re alright...it’s alarming and always far too dramatic.

SLOTH:

Where would you spend a long time doing nothing?

A quiet place with a view (specifically, Shawnigan Lake or Tofino), drinking wine and sharing the space with the person I love. But whether I’m surrounded by water or mountains, it wouldn’t matter. I love sitting in silence and just thinking and looking around. I’m in my head a lot and silence helps me focus on what’s right in front of me, or what I’ve been avoiding.

PRIDE:

What is the one thing you’re secretly proud of ?

The 7 Sins ENVY:

Whose shoes would you like to walk in?

There are certainly people I admire, but I’m not sure whose shoes to choose! Instead, I’ll say that I would want to walk in someone’s shoes who has survived adversity and come out the other side not jaded. Just to see how they actually managed it all. As we all know, adversity is just a thing about life, but it’s how humans manage it and how we strengthen ourselves that I find extraordinarily inspiring.

Being an Auntie. Be it by blood relation or by friendship, I love being an Auntie. As someone who doesn’t have children of her own, I find it such an honour to be an important part of a kiddo’s life. There is a really special bond there and it makes me feel happy. Once they get to an appropriate age, I put in place the rule that they can trust me with absolutely anything, unless they’re in danger. Then I have to tell their parents.

LUST:

What makes your heart beat faster?

LOVE. When I see that face, hear that voice, feel that touch. It’s magic. Pure magic.

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narrative

WORDS SUSAN LUNDY

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ILLUSTRATION SIERRA LUNDY

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It wasn’t until years later, when a bat became trapped in our second home and my younger daughter began cooing at it that I realized these little guys are actually adorable—kind of like hamsters with wings.

L

et me warn you about the term rustic. A “rustic” home may conjure winter scenes of soft-alpaca-sweater-clad couples sipping mulled wine in front of a crackling fireplace, or summertime visions of lazy days spent lounging outdoors on a backyard deck—perhaps the deck is waterworn and slightly haphazard, but still worthy of a photo shoot for Country Cottage.

These images are not entirely false, but let’s do a reality check: hours of back-breaking wood splitting and wood stacking will quickly temper a wood-heat love affair; that deck likely needs a visit from a gazillion-dollar-an-hour carpenter, and be damned if all that cosy ambiance doesn’t just make every little creature want to live in that house too.

My first house on Salt Spring Island was an early-century log cabin, and it embodied the term rustic. Belying its picturesque exterior were the various creatures that marched in and out of it, depending on the season. These included ants in the spring, hornets in the summer, mice in the winter and periodic bats year-round.

We received much advice on ways to evict the hornet tenants. Calling pest control might have been the optimal choice, but we were young and broke and willing to try any suggestion, including dangling a fish head over a jar of water.

The the only casualty here was the sweet scent of the room.

But one night, when some 20 hornets clustered together for a snooze in the crease between the wall and ceiling, Derrick, my husband of the time, said, “Here’s our chance. We’ll vacuum them up.”

The “we’ll” actually meant “he’ll” because I watched the entire exercise from a small crack between the comforter and pillow. As soon as the nozzle hit the cluster, the hornets

spewed outwards and voiced their anger by loudly buzzing around the room.

The next scene (observed from my pillow fortress) involved Derrick jumping about, Electrolux nozzle extended. It seemed to work! And while we didn’t usually vacuum the house at midnight, living in a rustic home sometimes called for the unorthodox. (And, honestly, now that I knew the vacuum was a weapon of mass destruction, I couldn’t wait for the flying ants in the spring.)

The attic-residing bats in the log cabin only dropped by once in a while, making a distinct soft flapping sound as they fluttered into the bedroom through an open French door, and sending us diving for cover under the duvet. Derrick, who as a youth in the late ‘60s had long curly hair, once had a bat get caught in his thick locks. He was quite terrified of them and he instilled the same fear in me. Hence the ensuing scenes of us hiding under blankets, running about the house opening doors and windows, trying to shoo out the unwelcome bats.

(It wasn’t until years later, when a bat became trapped in our second home and my younger daughter began cooing at it that I realized these little guys are actually adorable—kind of like hamsters with wings.)

In selecting our second house, we carefully avoided the word rustic. However, on an island of misfit homes—many constructed over several years, with addition built upon addition and where the level of completion depended on how quickly the money ran out—there was bound to be issues.

Salt Spring homes that aren’t rustic are likely quirky. This means you might have to walk through one room to get to another; curtains might replace doors on bathrooms; and potholed driveways often rival BMX racing tracks for negotiability.

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And either way, as homeowners of either rustic or quirky, everyone dreads the arrival of city-dwelling visitors.

Once, I was preparing for two visitors from Calgary. Things were going quite well on the clean-up end of things (a bout of insomnia the night before had produced a clean fridge by 4 am), and I even got the sliding bathroom door working. But drama was inevitable. Two days before the two sets of fancy city shoes were set to cross the quirky-country threshold…the bird arrived.

Although by this time I’d lived in the house for decades, it was somehow still a surprise every spring when I heard the early-morning thunk on the guest bedroom window. Reflective glass drew at least one randy bird each year, and upon seeing its reflection, it struck the window with force and then happily bounced up and down the length of it for a loud half hour or more. This early bird rose with the sun—arriving about 10 minutes earlier each morning—until its cheery crash hit at 5 am and resonated throughout the house. It was preferable, I guess, to the woodpecker, which for several mornings one year, mistook the gutter outside our bedroom for a tree trunk.

But my current husband Bruce’s favourite time of the year was the annual march of the ants, which started in the early spring with a regiment of tiny sugar ants and moved into an army of larger black ants. As explained by one of my friends, who lived in a rustic and quirky home and knew about such things, the ants merely come and then they go; they are on the move and the house just happens to be in the way. The march of the ants took place for just a few days, but Bruce’s aversion to anything that crawls is strong enough to be amusing, so at least there was that.

And, of course, when all else failed, there was always the vacuum cleaner.

And, honestly, now that I knew the vacuum was a weapon of mass destruction, I couldn’t wait for the flying ants in the spring.

CHARLES CAMPBELL

JAN WADE

CHARLES CAMPBELL • JAN WADE VIVA Award for Visual Arts

An award of $15,000 each is granted by the Jack and Doris Shadbolt Foundation to mid-career artists chosen for outstanding achievement and commitment by an independent jury.

The Jack and Doris Shadbolt Foundation, Vancouver BC

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THEOLONIUS DULE MTHOMBENI

SHAWN SHEPHERD

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SCOTT WATSON

SCOTT WATSON Max Wyman Award for Critical Writing The award is a $5,000 prize established by the Yosef Wosk Family Foundation to celebrate excellence in writing on the visual, performing and literary arts.

The Shadbolt Foundation

is pleased to announce its 2022 awards recipients For more information on the awards and to see artwork and biographies, visit our website: shadboltfoundation.org

behind the story

Zimmermann Dancer Glitter Tulle Peplum Blouse, $2,060, and Zimmerman Dancer Ombré Check Wide Leg Silk Pants, $925, both from Nordstrom Canada; vintage belt, stylist’s own.

Welcome to the wild west! The fashion story in this edition of Boulevard takes a step back in time, courtesy of The Hatching Post, located in West Kelowna. Dubbed “The only brewery and smokery parlor on the west!” the authentic saloonstyle ambiance at The Hatching Post provided the perfect backdrop to stage our shoot.

PHOTO BY DARREN HULL

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Change is in the air.

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