Publisher: Commodore Mark Watson, DGMWS
Translation: CFMWS Translation Service
Editor in Chief: Ryan Cane
Contributors: Ryan Melanson Virginia Beaton Dr. Darrell Menard Rachel Lallouz Simon Leblanc Christine Meyer Captain Karine Roy Sarah Francis
Art Director and Graphic Designer: Melissa Gauthier Senior Editor: Jennifer Seipp Public Affairs Officer: Lt(N) Michèle Tremblay
ON THE COVER
Contributing Graphic Designers: Mike Leahy Richard Seguin Play magazine is made possible under the Non-Public-Property accountability framework and authorized by the Director General Morale and Welfare Services of the Canadian Armed Forces. Although all content herein is reviewed and examined by the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) PSP editorial staff and the CFMWS Public Affairs Officer, opinions expressed in articles and ads are those of the contributors and do not automatically reflect those of the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces. Opinions expressed herein are those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Canadian Armed Forces, the Department of National Defence or Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services. Advertisements are published in the language they are received and are the responsibility of the advertiser. For more information: www.cfmws.com or email recreation@cfmws.com Cette publication est également disponible en français.
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THE CONTENTS JUNE IS REC MONTH 18
FEATURES
THE BUCKET LIST CHALLENGE 20 THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL: THE CHALLENGE OF A LIFETIME 24 PSP RECREATION REACHES NEW HEIGHTS THROUGH HIGH FIVE 28 BOOMER'S LEGACY 34 IN THE KITCHEN WITH A MASTERCHEF 30 ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FINDING & FIXING YOUR PERFECT HOUSE 42
OTHER ARTICLES
CFMWS Celebrates its 20th Anniversary............................................ 5 Parks Canada Fun for the Whole Family .......................................... 22 Reaching New Heights: Outback Climbing Club ............................ 26 I Can’t Afford It, What Does This Actually Mean? ............................ 31 Soldier On - Active for Life............................................................... 36 Living in a Remote Area and Staying Active... It’s Possible!................ 38 CFB Shilo Museum Showcases Local Military History..................... 40
IN EACH ISSUE
Publisher’s Note.................................................................................. 4 What’s Cool ....................................................................................... 6 #Trending .......................................................................................... 8 48 Hours In….................................................................................. 10 Your Safety ....................................................................................... 14 Ask the Expert .................................................................................. 16 Discover Ad-REC-tising! .................................................................. 48 Spotlight .......................................................................................... 41 The Backpage .................................................................................. 54
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PUBLISHER'S NOTE I’m thrilled to present our second edition of PLAY, the annual June is Recreation Month online magazine published by the Canadian Forces Newspaper Association. As we enjoy warm temperatures and outdoor activities, many of us are also facing some challenges this summer. Whether you’re settling in to a new job, moving to a new posting, transitioning back home after training or deployment, or adjusting to changing family dynamics, the military lifestyle is never dull. That’s why this year’s June is Recreation Month campaign, “This is my therapy”, illustrates how doing a recreational activity we love – be it a bike ride, a music class, or a soccer game – can help us unwind, manage stress, and stay physically and mentally healthy. This edition offers plenty of ideas to incorporate more play into your everyday life this summer. Planning a Maritime vacation or “staycation” this summer? Our 48 Hours in Halifax feature is packed with ideas for family fun. If you are interested in spending your recreation time giving back to the community, check out our article on Boomer’s Legacy and learn more about how recreational activities like cycling are helping our troops help those in need. Or, get inspired in the kitchen with healthy recipes from television’s MasterChef Michael Bonacini. Whatever your summer recreation plans, make sure to check the CF Appreciation deals and discounts. I hope that you enjoy reading this edition, and get out there and PLAY this June! Yours Aye, Commodore Mark Watson Director General Morale and Welfare Services
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CFMWS CELEBRATES ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY This year, Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) is celebrating 20 years of unrelenting dedication to helping Canadian Armed Forces members and their families with services that are tailored to handle many unique aspects of the military lifestyle. It was on September 3rd, 1996 that the Canadian Forces and the Department of National Defence implemented a VCDS Instruction that launched the provision of Personnel Support Programs through a Non-Public Property (NPP) delivery model. Prior to Unification of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), virtually all NPP activities were controlled and managed at the local level. However, the idea of a common system of NPP control and administration was recommended back in 1966 in a study conducted by Rear Admiral C.J. Dillon. Three years later, the concept of delivering Morale and Welfare (MW) programs through a combination of Public and NPP resources was introduced and approved. These defining actions opened the door to a concerted MW program delivery in the CAF and greatly impacted the direction that led to the birth of the present thriving model that is in place now. By merging PSP services with those offered by CANEX, SISIP Financial and NPP administration, the Canadian Forces Personnel Support Agency (CFPSA), the precursor to today’s CFMWS, was created. Later, administration of Military Family Services and Casualty Support Management were added to CFMWS’s mandate to become a unified organization and the service provider of choice for the military community. In the 20 year span of CFMWS’ existence, more than
just the name has changed. However, its mandate has remained constant throughout. To echo the original 1996 mission statement: CFMWS continues to excel in supporting the operational effectiveness of the CAF and contribute to morale, esprit de corps and unit cohesion, by ensuring that CAF members and their families have access to programs at levels consistent with military tradition and to those services normally available in comparable progressive Canadian communities. Today, CFMWS manages more than 4,100 Staff of the Non-Public Funds, Canadian Forces employees on bases, wings, units, and at headquarters in Ottawa. In partnership with bases, wings, and units, we ensure that our customers, the CAF Regular and Reserve Force members, retired and former CAF members, military families, Department of National Defence employees, NPF employees, and RCMP personnel, receive access to morale and welfare programs, services, and activities, no matter where they are located. This anniversary provides our dedicated CFMWS staff and the military community with an opportunity to celebrate the undeniable progress achieved over the last 20 years. Therefore, we invite you to visit our 20th anniversary virtual gallery http://cfmws20th.strikingly. com/ where you can learn more about significant milestones that marked our organization’s existence and to find out more about upcoming anniversary-related events.
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WHAT'S COOL
TAKE FLIGHT this summer on an unforgettable camping trip, equipped with this collection of sweet, quality camping gear courtesy of CANEX.ca. Scoop up your gang, and make the great Canadian outdoors your setting for new adventures and joyous memories.
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WIN THIS PACKAGE
To celebrate Recreation Month, we’re giving ALL these items away to one lucky CFOne member! All you have to do is go to fb.com/CANEX.ca and enter for your chance to win this prize package
PELICAN Flashlight 1920 The new ultra compact aluminum 1920 flashlight is designed with style and function in mind. Long burn times combined with hi-lumen output make for an efficient lighting tool the perfect personal light.
valued at over $500!
World Famous ORION 7 TENT A spacious 7 x 7 three person tent, with a square dome design. The World Famous tent features a rugged woven polyethelene bathtub floor, and front “T” door with mesh inner and nylon outer flap.
CADPAT Backpack The
Advanced Study CADPAT 600 denier waterproof backpack holds 30 litres, capable of fitting a water bladder, and incorporates back padding, padded shoulder straps and an adjustable chest strap for comfort.
World Famous SLEEPING BAG With a cotton
lining and draft tube, the Nomad series of sleeping bags from World Famous is sure to keep you protected on cool summer nights - no matter where you roam.
Visit CANEX.ca
JETBOIL Zip Black A simple Front-
Country cooking system, featuring a drink-through lid with pour spout & strainer. Rely on Jetboil Zip to provide hot food and drinks quickly and conveniently when you want them the most.
VEGA Snack Bars This box of
awesome non-GMO, gluten-free, superfood bars is a delicious and convenient source of plant-based protein and 1g of omega-3 (Chocolate Peanut Butter - 12X42g) YUMMM...
GERBER Mini Covert Fast Knife delivers one-
hand opening for quick deployment of the titaniumcoated blade, and the G-10 handles give you a tacky grip, while boasting a slim and sleek profile.
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#TRENDING
Plan Your Next Canadian Adventure with the CF Appreciation Program If you are a thrill seeker and into adventure, you do not have to travel far and wide to find excitement. Canada has many possibilities and some may even be in your own backyard. Read on to find out how the CF Appreciation Program can not only get your adrenaline pumping but save you a bundle on your next escapade.
British Columbia Soar above the breathtaking beauty of Cougar Mountain on Superfly Ziplines, rip through the wild waters with Wedge Rafting, maneuver through the trees like Tarzan at Treetop Adventures or enjoy the thrill of a snowmobile ride through the pristine backcountry of Whistler. The Adventure Group Whistler offers 20% off the best activities and things to do in Whistler, BC.
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Manitoba Frontiers North’s Tundra Buggy Adventure of Churchill, Manitoba offers the best way to view and photograph the polar bears in their natural habitat. This world-famous destination provides breathtaking journeys to see polar bears, beluga whales, musk oxen and more. Enjoy 20% off Tundra Buggy day tours. Ontario Become mesmerized by the richness and beauty of the 1000 Islands as can only be seen from the air. With 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours, you can see the unspoiled beauty of the St. Lawrence, marvel at the vastness of the Ivy Lea Bridge and find romance with the breathtaking views of Boldt and Singer Castles. Choose from three different tours and receive 10% off.
Quebec Navigate on suspension bridges, climb nets, explore caves and fly full speed on a giant zipline with Arbraska Quebec. They have four parks in Quebec and five parks in Ontario. Make your reservation today, get a 15% discount and aim for the higher level. Prince Edward Island Ride the Cyclone roller-coaster, Ferris wheel and over 15 carnival favourites at Sandspit Entertainment Ltd. Try your hand at one of their old fashioned games or enjoy a tasty carnival treat. Purchase your tickets online through the CF Appreciation Program and receive a 15% discount on daily and weekly bracelets.
These are just a few examples of many discounts and saving available to our Canadian Armed Forces community through the CF Appreciation Program. Visit www.cfappreciation.ca to plan your next great Canadian adventure. Access to the Exclusive Members Only area of CF Appreciation Program is available with your CFOne Card. Do not have a CFOne Card yet? Visit www.cf1fc.ca or call toll free 1-855-245-0330.
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48 HOURS IN... HALIFAX Day 1 - Dartmouth / Halifax Ryan Melanson and Virginia Beaton, CFB Halifax Whether you’re posted, on temporary duty or on vacation, Halifax is a great city steeped in military history.
8 a.m. - 11 a.m.
HARTLEN POINT GOLF CLUB PSP operates one of Nova Scotia’s most scenic and challenging golf courses. The Hartlen Point Golf Club is an 18-hole links-style course in Eastern Passage, just a five minute drive from 12 Wing Shearwater. Popular for its high-quality course and low green fees, Hartlen Point is open to all golfers, with serving and retired CAF members getting the best rate. The proximity to the ocean brings spectacular views and ever-present winds that are sure to challenge your game. SHEARWATER AVIATION MUSEUM While you’re in the area, explore RCAF history at the Shearwater Aviation Museum. The museum chronicles the history of Canadian naval aviation from 1918 onward, with a collection of more than a dozen aircraft, including an Airworthy Fairey Swordfish Mk II, an ex-Shearwater C45 Expeditor as well as a full-scale replica MK 1 Hawker Hurricane. An art gallery, flight simulator and other displays round out the collection. Noon - 2 p.m.
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GO FOR CHEF INSPIRED FOOD TRUCK FARE When it’s time for a bite to eat, you can’t go wrong at the Truck-Side Food Truck Food Court, located in Dartmouth’s Burnside Business Park and run by retired CPO1 Bill Pratt, a former Command Food Services Chief. Patrons order grub from food truck windows set up in the indoor space, with five separate kitchens cooking up everything from gourmet burgers and hand-battered fish to Asian noodles and Mexican fare.
2 p.m. - 6 p.m. HARBOUR FERRY SERVICE Dating back to 1752, the Halifax-Dartmouth ferry is the oldest saltwater ferry service in North America. Skip the bridge traffic and enjoy a comfortable sail with a great view of the city, including the Royal Canadian Navy Dockyard. The latest additions to the fleet pay tribute to two CAF members who lost their lives in Afghanistan: MCpl Christopher Stannix and PO2 Craig Blake. From the ferry terminal, walk up to Spring Garden Road. This bustling commercial street is ideal for strolling, people-watching, and shopping in stores such as Jennifer’s of Nova Scotia, where 100% of the merchandise is made by Atlantic Canada artisans. HALIFAX CENTRAL LIBRARY Stop at Halifax’s newest architectural landmark. This spectacular building opened in December 2014 and features not only books, magazines, CDs and DVDs, but also a creative space and media room, First Nations Circle, gaming and IT area, and on the 4th floor, the Books of Remembrance that commemorate the Haligonians who were killed serving during the First and Second World Wars. Enjoy the 360° vistas from the fifth floor rooftop terrace. HALIFAX PUBLIC GARDENS This formal Victorian garden covers 16 acres and boasts a bandstand, fountains, statues, and a pond with swans, ducks, and model ships. From a table at the Uncommon Grounds Café, sip coffee and take in the colours of dozens of perfectly tended flowerbeds.
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Grab an early supper. Across the street at The Arms, the menu ranges from classic fish and chips to beef short ribs. Nearby on Spring Garden Road there is a wide variety of eateries from sushi to Middle Eastern to Thai. 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. SHAKESPEARE IN POINT PLEASANT PARK The play’s the thing, when you visit the park for summer theatre by Shakespeare By the Sea. Enjoy fun-filled live theatre against the backdrop of the park’s old fortifications.
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DOWNTOWN If Shakespeare isn’t your cup of tea, Halifax has a dynamic downtown social scene with clubs, pubs and restaurants. Play the night away at the Board Room Game Café, catch a comedy act at Yuk Yuk’s, or order Chocolate Lava Cake and espresso at The Middle Spoon Desserterie and Bar. To cap off the evening, head over to The Old Triangle for live music.
Day 2 - Halifax 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. HALIFAX SEAPORT FARMERS’ MARKET Whether you’re looking for a full breakfast, a sweet treat or to browse the local arts and crafts, the market is a great place to start your morning along the waterfront. The spacious interior offers plenty of spots to stop and chat, enjoy delicious homemade foods, and take in the weekend buskers. CANADIAN MUSEUM OF IMMIGRATION AT PIER 21 This modern museum is just steps from the farmers’ market and tells the fascinating story of the entry point for more than a million Canadian immigrants. The main hall underwent renovations in 2015, with new artefacts and interactive exhibits like scale replicas of colonist train cars and the bedroom of a passenger ship. Those whose families came to Canada through Pier 21 may find the visit an especially emotional experience, but anyone can appreciate the building’s history, which includes the movement of nearly 500,000 military personnel during the Second World War. 10 a.m. - noon HALIFAX WATERFRONT BOARDWALK The boardwalk is home to some of the city’s best restaurants and unique shops, some right along the water and others tucked inside Historic Properties, a heritage site of restored timber-frame and stone warehouses dating to the late 1700s. The boardwalk also serves as the summer berth for the museum ship HMCS Sackville, Canada’s last remaining Flower-Class Corvette. Noon
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HALIFAX CITADEL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE Atop Citadel Hill, watch the 78th Highlander re-enactors load and fire a cannon for the daily Noon Gun. Take the 45-minute guided tour, or try firing three rounds on an authentic Snider-Enfield rifle used by the Highlanders in 1869.
2 p.m. - 4 p.m. ALEXANDER KEITH’S BREWERY TOUR A Scottish immigrant and former mayor of Halifax, Alexander Keith ran the brewery himself until 1863, and tour guides do their best to transport visitors back to that time. Period dress, heritage decor and an entertaining routine of skits and song mean this brewery tour is ideal the whole family. For those of age, of course, part of the draw is sampling the various ales while learning how they’re made. 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Too many dining options to count: seafood, Italian, pub fare, Asian, vegan, and Middle Eastern restaurants are all downtown within easy walking distance. 8:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. Feel like getting some sea air? Try a harbour tour on the tall ship Silva. Bring a sweater because it’s always cooler on the water, and relax as you wind down from an action-packed 48 hours.
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YOUR BICYCLE SAFETY Summer cycling season is here, so it’s a great time to review safety tips for parents, cyclists and motorists.
DRESS THE PART
Most importantly: wear a helmet! Helmets are required by law, and a head injury can mean a brain injury. Wearing one doesn’t mean you can be reckless, but a helmet will provide some protection in case you fall. Even experienced cyclists sometimes fall off their bikes. It is hard to prepare for a fall and it is easy enough to hit your head – you could be knocked unconscious or worse. Your bike helmet should fit properly and you should not wear a hat under your helmet. Make sure it is worn level to cover your forehead. The straps should always be fastened or it will likely fall off your head when you need it most. If you fall and put your helmet to the test, get a new one. They don’t work as well after a major crash. Wear bright clothes and affix reflectors to your bike to help others on the road see you. Make sure nothing will get caught in your bike chain, such as loose pant legs, backpack straps, or shoelaces. Wear sneakers when you bike. Sandals, flip-flops, shoes with heels, and cleats won’t help you grip the pedals. NEVER RIDE BAREFOOT.
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Avoid wearing headphones because the music could distract you from noises around you, such as a car blowing its horn so you can get out of the way. Parents should discuss approved biking areas with their children. Kids younger than 10 years old should consider riding on the sidewalk rather than the street. Regardless of where cyclists ride, they need to watch for cars and trucks.
What to teach young cyclists about cycling on the sidewalk:
lways yield to pedestrians. Get off and walk your A bike, or put your foot down. Ride slowly. Always walk your bike through a crosswalk. Use a bell or horn to let pedestrians know you are there. Make eye contact with drivers. Assume drivers don’t see you. Look for cars in driveways, laneways and at intersections. Be prepared to stop. Expect pedestrians to exit from stores. A bike path free of cars is a great choice if there’s one in your area. Just remember to share the path with other riders, walkers, and strollers.
Some Road Rules:
lways ride with your hands on the handlebars. A Always stop and check for traffic in both directions when leaving your driveway, an alley, or a curb. Cross at intersections. When you pull out between parked cars, drivers can’t see you coming. Walk your bike across busy intersections using the crosswalk and following traffic signals. Ride on the right-hand side of the street, so you travel in the same direction as cars. NEVER ride against traffic. Use bike lanes or designated bike routes whenever you can. Don’t ride too close to parked cars. Doors can open suddenly. Stop at all stop signs and obey red lights, just as cars do. Ride single file on the street with friends.
hen passing other cyclists or pedestrians on the W street, always pass to their left side. Learn hand signals. These are akin to turn signals and brake lights for cyclists – they help vehicles know where you’re headed.
HOW TO AVOID A COLLISION The Door Prize:
A driver opens his door right in front of you. You run into it if you can’t stop in time. How to avoid this collision: Ride far enough to the left that you won’t run into a door that’s opened unexpectedly. You may be wary about riding so far into the lane that cars can’t pass you easily, but you’re more likely to get “doored” by a parked car than you are to get hit from behind by a driver who can clearly see you.
The Crosswalk Slam:
You’re riding on the sidewalk and you cross the street at a crosswalk. A car makes a right turn, and hits you. How to avoid this collision: Get a headlight – if you are riding at night, it is required by law. Slow down enough that you’re able to stop if necessary. Don’t ride on the sidewalk – crossing between sidewalks and crosswalks is a fairly dangerous maneuver.
The Wrong-Way Wreck
You’re riding the wrong way (against traffic, on the left-hand side of the street). A car makes a right turn from a side street, driveway, or parking lot, right into you. How to avoid this collision: Don’t ride against traffic. Ride with traffic, in the same direction.
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ASK THE EXPERT –MAKING INDOOR CYCLING MORE FUN upper body), swimming gives your legs a break while developing the upper body musculature that is often neglected in runners. This not only reduces your risk of injury but it reduces the amount of time you spend cycling indoors.
Q:
I got a stress fracture in my foot running a marathon this spring. In an effort to stay fit, I started cycling and discovered I really enjoy it. My foot healed well and I now alternate running and cycling workouts. On the hot and humid days of summer, I plan to maintain my training schedule by switching to indoor cycling, but I am concerned cycling indoors will be boring. Do you have any strategies to make indoor cycling more fun? ~ Major Wheeler
A:
Dear Major Wheeler: Great to hear your foot has healed and that you have discovered the joys of cycling. Indoor cycling is an extremely good way to stay fit but the number one complaint is that it can be mundane. I cycle indoors throughout the winter and while it isn’t as much fun as being outdoors, there are many things you can do to make it more enjoyable. Here are some suggestions: 1. Keep your mind busy while you bike. Put on some music, watch TV or movies, listen to audio books, catch up on the news or learn from educational CDs. Some people even manage to read while they cycle. 2. Cross train. For example, swimming can be a beneficial cross-training activity for runners, especially those recovering from injury. By targeting all the major muscle groups (quadriceps, hamstrings, gluts, abdominals, lower back and
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3. Join a spin class. Cycling with other people is always more fun! Contact your local PSP recreation department for more information. 4. Vary your workouts. Doing the same workout every day can be a drag. Try adding interval work into at least one of your weekly cycling sessions to make your training time fly by and help you get fitter. 5. Use your bike as a circuit training station. Warm up and cool down on your bike and go hard whenever you get to the cycling station. Log on to DFIT.ca for more training ideas. 6. Live stream classes from the comfort of your home. Here, everyone in a cycling group has their bike equipped with a special screen that shows them how everyone in the group is doing during a workout. These sessions get competitive and this can make your workouts more exciting. 7. Register for a cycling event. This will motivate you to work harder. The bottom line is that indoor cycling is an excellent way to stay in shape – you just have to figure out some ways to keep your brain from getting a numb as your butt sometimes does! Dr. Darrell Menard, MD Dip Sport Medicine
DFIT POSTER
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THIS IS MY THERAPY Speeding down a bike trail under sunny skies, the day’s stressful moments melt away: that’s Lt (N) Aaron Bradley’s recreation “therapy”. Each June, Personnel Support Programs (PSP) marks June is Recreation Month by illustrating the many benefits of recreational activities. The 2016 theme, “This is my therapy”, highlights how recreational activities restore us and better prepare us for challenges ahead. “Cycling is a getaway. Time spent in the saddle is stress free time that can be used for reflection,” Lt (N) Bradley says. “Besides physical strength, cycling will increase your mental toughness which will naturally transfer to other areas of your life.” From triathlon clubs to safety rodeos, cycling is one of many forms of recreation that the military community can engage in through PSP. Recreation programming has special value for military personnel functioning in a technically oriented force. A well-balanced program helps to maintain total fitness, a state of well-being which includes the physical, emotional, intellectual, social and spiritual health of the individual. For Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) family members of all ages, postings, deployments, careers, and hectic family schedules can lead to periods of stress. Road to Mental Readiness (R2MR) training advises that engaging in things we enjoy actually gives us more energy to manage stress. When under stress we often stop having fun due to a lack of time or a decreased interest or drive. However, during stressful times it is even more important to schedule positive activities in our day in order to effectively manage the demands in our life. “By recharging with physical activity and community programs, CAF members and their families help protect their physical and mental health,” says Col Andrew Downes, Director of Mental Health. “Scheduling fun, recreational activities into our day can help us to effectively manage the stressful demands in our lives.” For Lt (N) Bradley, hitting the road on his bike three times a week is a priority on his schedule. As a youth, he was a runner and swimmer, so he added cycling to his recreation routine with the goal of trying a triathlon. “I have competed in triathlons, road racing, and most recently cyclo-cross,” Lt (N) Bradley says. “Anytime you reach a goal you get a feeling of accomplishment and cycling is no exception. Whether it’s finishing your first Century (100 mile ride) or winning your first race, each goal completed will leave you thirsting for more!”
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To learn more about community recreation and to enter the June is Recreation Month contest, visit cfmws.com/JRM.
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THE BUCKET LIST CHALLENGE: SEA KAYAKING Rachel Lallouz, CFB Esquimalt
Before launching my kayak into Esquimalt Harbour, I joined five other rookie kayakers to learn basic safety skills and manoeuvres at the Naden pool. Corporal Aaron Miller, lead instructor for the club, started us off with a wet exit. We had to self-tip and, while upside-down underwater, unlatch ourselves from the kayak to swim to the surface.
Looming before me is the colossal hull of a warship. From the vantage point of my kayak, I am level with the ocean, and the water mirrors the ship in a wrinkled gray reflection.
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I paddled to the shallow end and steadied my kayak. With a deep breath I threw my weight to one side and tipped over. I kept my eyes tightly closed underwater to guard against the chlorine, felt for the latch on the rubbery skirt, pulled it back and freed myself from the kayak. When I came to the surface, I realized my paddle was not in my hand. Perfecting this maneuver would have to come later as Cpl Miller moved us on to tackle the partnerassisted T-rescue.
In this scenario, one kayaker tips over, resurfaces, and with the help of another kayaker flips the The ship is berthed at one of the jetties in dockyard water-filled kayak upright.The rescuer must grab at CFB Esquimalt. Tethered to another jetty is the the bow and pull it across their boat until the front long black body of a partially submerged submarine hatch is almost in the rescuer’s lap. This causes bobbing eerily in the dark water. the water trapped in the kayak to pour out of the upside down cockpit. The kayak is flipped upright, My destination today is the pebbly shore of Fisgard and with the two boats close together and the Lighthouse across the harbour. I dip my paddle rescuer stabilizing the boat, the submerged kayaker into the water and pull the kayak forward. I feel then launches their body across the cockpit, kicking the water resist and my uncertainty to navigate the their legs and pulling up at the same time. distance grow. We were also taught to angle our paddles in the This is one of only a handful of times I have water, and tried different correctional paddle clutched the double-ended paddle. But that novelty strokes. In the face of high wind or risky currents, will dwindle today as I am taking part in the Pacific knowing how to wield my paddle could get me out Fleet Kayak Club’s introductory course – a twoof a sticky situation quickly. phase course that starts in the pool and ends on the ocean. With the trial run in the pool over, I now find myself rocking precariously on the open ocean. My arm muscles strain to keep the kayak balanced with each stroke of the paddle.
Once we reach the outskirts of the harbour, Cpl Miller teaches us contact towing, a safety procedure used in an emergency where one kayaker cannot continue to paddle. In this event, another paddler pulls alongside the injured person, and the injured person latches their kayak to the other with their arm. The towing paddler then paddles them to safety. As the winds pick up, we are also shown how to create a raft by lacing our kayaks together to form
a single floating vessel that is a surprisingly strong defence against stormy conditions. We break from our raft formation and continue to paddle towards the lighthouse. Cpl Miller navigates his kayak among us, telling stories of the sea life he’s seen: a school of porpoise swimming close to his kayak, seals sunning themselves on the rocks, and underwater creatures visible through shallow, clear waters – anemones, jellyfish, starfish, and spiny crustaceans. The choppy waves rock my boat. I straighten my back, relax my hips and centre my weight to counteract the ocean’s sweeping motion.
We approach the tiny cove below the lighthouse; the water is translucent blue-green. A few metres from shore I hop out of my kayak, wading through the knee-deep water to pull it onto beach. As I lounge on the sun-warmed beach with the others, I watch Cpl Miller demonstrate a self-rescue. In the center of the cove he angles his kayak to face us. His chest expands as he takes a deep breath. Then he plunges into the frigid water, self-tipping his kayak. In one fluid motion he
reappears, and hauls his dripping body into the kayak, paddle and emergency gear intact. With that, he motions for us to return to our kayaks. Back at the clubhouse, we take turns hosing down the salty gear with fresh water. Without a good rinse, the plastic body of the kayak and any fabric can corrode and deteriorate. As I dunk my lifejacket into a tub of freshwater, I glance at the sun setting on the horizon. Past the warships and submarine is the open ocean. I feel a desire to get back on the waves sweep over me.
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PARKS CANADA – FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Whether you’re looking for adventure or just a break from the everyday, Parks Canada has countless unique experiences to suit your needs. It’s time to connect! With nature - with history - with friends and family.
LONG BEACH CHALLENGE
Up for some world-class scenery and adventure? Experience Vancouver Island’s longest beach on foot! Challenge your body, calm your mind and breathe in the salt air. Discover 9.5km of surf-swept beach in rugged Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Purchase a Challenge Time Card and clock your time start to finish. Push yourself, challenge your friends, and try the Long Beach Challenge.
DISCOVERY TOUR
Take the “Discovery Tour” in the birthplace of Banff National Park. Connect with nature and history - the very essence of the Park. Join a Parks Canada guide, visit the sulphurous hot springs, have your photo taken at a traditional railway workers camp, and immerse yourself in the story of one of the greatest conservation movements in the world, Parks Canada.
HANDS ON HISTORY
Step through the gates of Fort George National Historic Site and travel back to a time when Canada’s very existence hung in the balance. Enjoy a once in a lifetime opportunity to fire an authentic soldier’s musket, the same used 200 years ago to defend our country in the War of 1812. An experience like no other!
MISSION FORTIFICATIONS
Watch out! Quebec is under attack and it’s up to YOU to defend the colony. Patrol the outer wall of the Fortifications of Quebec on the lookout for key information. Will you know how to use your sense of observation, find the clues, make the right decisions, thwart the enemy’s plans and save the town? Open your eyes and see the Historic District of Old-Québec like never before.
FOLLOW THE STORY OF THE 1758 SIEGE
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An exciting challenge awaits you. Who knew that the Fortress of Louisbourg covered so much ground? Discover the place where General Wolfe landed and built redoubts to attack the fortified town. Find all the caches hidden inside and outside the walls of the Fortress. Enjoy the exhilarating outdoors, the fresh sea air and fascinating history. For more information and to plan your visit: parkscanada.gc.ca
MFSP Banner - liv and logan
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THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL: THE CHALLENGE OF A LIFETIME
Richard Sneddon at the summit of Mount Katahdin in Baxter State Park, Maine.
Simon Leblanc, CFB Valcartier “It’s a dream come true…the challenge of a lifetime,” declared Richard Sneddon in an interview with Adsum. The 48 year old retired major from 2nd Batallion, Royal 22e Regiment, will spend the next five months crossing all 3,510 kilometres of the Appalachian Trail. Sneddon left Quebec City on March 16 for Atlanta, Georgia, officially starting his adventure that same day from the southern terminus at the foot of Springer Mountain in Chattahoochee National Park. He warmed up with a little 13 kilometre jaunt along the approach to Amicalola Falls State Park. His final objective is the northern terminus at Mount Katahdin, in Baxter State Park, Maine. “Failure is not an option,” he pointed out. Not that this challenge is without obstacles. The trail along the U.S. east coast is very rugged, and will repeatedly test his mettle. He will face all kinds of weather, including variations in altitude of over 141,580 metres. That would be akin to climbing and descending Mount Everest 16 times (without the added challenge of the lack of oxygen). The highest point he will reach, Clingmans Dome, sits at an elevation of 2,025 metres, straddling North Carolina and Tennessee. During his months-long trek, Sneddon will cross paths with many of the 3,000 people who attempt this feat every year. Only 25% of them complete the entire journey, which spans 14 states. In order to achieve his goal, the former soldier will walk an average of eight hours a day. In the beginning, he expects to cover 20 to 30 kilometres a day. After a few weeks, he hopes to maintain a daily pace of 30 to 40 kilometres, conditions permitting.
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PRECISION PLANNING
A mission like this would be difficult to carry out without painstaking preparation. Sneddon planned his movements down to the last step. He gave himself a year to work out distances to be covered between stops a and to identify reference points. Once on site, he’ll be able to rely on the trail maps and landmarks provided to guide hikers. Covering those kinds of distances demands a healthy, energizing diet. To this end, he consulted Health Promotion Manager and nutritionist Julie Riopel-Meunier. With her help, he drew up a food program designed to maintain a 5,500 calorie a day diet. As for his food supply, Sneddon is fortunate enough to have a sister, Laura, who lives in the U.S. She will send him rations at supply points along the trail, and will even join him in Virginia for a little family support. After his rigorous route and food planning, there was the matter of selecting the hiking gear. The right gear is critical to the success of the adventure. This is where Sneddon’s military training kicked in. His 24 years of service in the Canadian Armed Forces were most helpful in preparing him for choosing what to take along and what to leave behind. His backpack, which only weighs 16 kilograms, contains a tent, a sleeping bag, a first aid kit, hiking gear, clothes, rations and a litre of water. “I was very careful not to carry non-essentials. I picked the lightest equipment possible. My military experience helped me figure out how to minimize my load,” he noted.
THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY SUPPORT
Even though his experience with the Royal 22nd Regiment prepared him for living far from his family for months at a time, Sneddon is quick to admit that his family’s moral support during this five month hike is crucial. Appalachian trail This is why his wife will accompany him in the White Mountains near Mount Washington. Two of their three sons, who accompanied their dad on expeditions on 46 of the highest peaks in New York State, will likely join him as well for a few days. “This adventure would be much more difficult with my family’s support,” confirmed the seasoned hiker. At the end of the day, the main motivation driving him in this exploit is setting an example for his children to let them know that you can take concrete steps to go after your dreams.
APPALACHIAN TRAIL FOLLOWS THE U.S. EASTERN SEABOARD
3510 kilometres Approximately 3,000 people set out to hike the trail every year 25% of hikers complete the route Crosses 14 states Variations in altitude over 141,580 metres
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REACHING NEW HEIGHTS: OUTBACK CLIMBING CLUB Ryan Melanson, CFB Halifax If you’re looking to make friends, learn new skills and push yourself physically while having a whole lot of fun, climbing may be the right fit. The CFB Halifax Outback Climbing Club meets twice a week inside the Fleet Fitness and Sports Centre, and club president Leading Seaman (LS) Matt Corbett is on the lookout for new members.
“We’re open to serving and retired military members, DND employees, civilians, anybody. The climbing community in Nova Scotia is very small but it’s a tight-knit group, so we have a lot of civilian members from that community,” LS Corbett said. The fleet gym’s climbing wall is one of the largest east of Montreal. It’s an impressive sight, measuring 32 feet high and covered in a variety of colourful holds to aid with gripping and stepping. Different routes along the wall offer challenges for climbers of all levels, from those with decades of experience to firsttimers. While a belayer (climbing partner) is required for safety, feel free to head in solo. There’s a wealth of climbing experience inside the gym on any given night, and the club supervisors or other members will be happy to partner up and offer insight for those learning the craft.
“Even if you know nothing about climbing and don’t have a partner, we’ll give you the basics, send you on your way and make sure you’re safe the whole time,” LS Corbett said. Thanks to the technology, equipment and instruction available at the gym, there’s never been a safety issue, despite the heights involved.
“Climbing is big on redundancy, and having a backup for any piece that can fail, which is very comforting,” LS Corbett said. LS Corbett, a hull technician at the Canadian Forces Naval Engineering School, got involved in the club upon his posting to Halifax in 2011. Through the club, he honed his skills while learning new techniques to use both inside and outside the gym. Club members also get together for climbing excursions, sometimes tagging along with members of the larger Climb Nova Scotia community, and sometimes on their own. It can be tough to break into a new community, and the club helped LS Corbett find like-minded people. After being introduced to former president Captain Brent Cullen and a host of helpful members, he was hooked. Now, he’s on the other side, helping members develop a passion for the unique sport and passing knowledge along.
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He hopes to boost military membership, and said the club is a great way for CAF members new to the area to meet people and pick up a new hobby.
“It’s really great to watch that spark grow in people. It’s something that I really enjoy and it’s nice to pass that on to someone.”
Formation Halifax Outback Climbing Club member Nathan Benjamin makes his way up the wall at the Fleet Fitness and Sports Centre with Billy Boutilier acting as a belayer below.
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PSP RECREATION REACHES NEW HEIGHTS THROUGH HIGH FIVE PETAWAWA PROVES EXCELLENCE WITH HIGH FIVE ACCREDITATION
For her leadership throughout the accreditation process, Felicia was honoured with a HIGH FIVE Champion award from Parks and Recreation Ontario.
Garrison Petawawa is the first PSP Community Recreation Department to become a HIGH FIVE Accredited organization. To achieve this special designation, the department passed a formal, three-year assessment process to ensure that their programs meet the highest recognized levels of quality and safety, with well-trained staff and excellent programming.
“To be recognized for something I do every day was unexpected and special,” she says. “I truly believe in the HIGH FIVE mission and vision and wanted to be part of something that was making a difference and positively impacting our children.”
Driving the HIGH FIVE program in Petawawa was particularly important to Felicia Arsenault, Community Recreation Coordinator. “We know that the military community is unique and transient by nature, so every child whose experience can be enriched is a victory in my opinion,” Felicia says. “By offering multiple streams of programming and reducing the many barriers that traditionally exist, we have ensured opportunities for maximum participation with ease of access.”
While Petawawa is the first PSP Recreation Department to become accredited, others such as Valcartier and Kingston are following in their example. All PSP Recreation Departments use the HIGH FIVE model to train their staff and assess their programs. This year, 397 additional PSP staff members across Canada received HIGH FIVE training, and 195 programs were evaluated.
About HIGH FIVE HIGH FIVE is Canada’s only comprehensive quality standard for children’s sport and recreation. HIGH FIVE holds true to the following five Principles of Healthy Child Development that research indicates are essential for quality programs: • • • • •
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A Caring Adult Friends Play Mastery Participation
HIGH FIVE is built on a quality framework consisting of training and development for staff, program assessments, risk management policies and procedures, and more.
THE FAMILY PERSPECTIVE: JULIE MCGIBBON Julie’s four year old son, Evan, attended Summer Camp and March Break Camp with PSP Recreation in Petawawa. Here’s what she had to say about the impact the recreation program and HIGH FIVE has had on her family: “It is important for Evan to attend recreation programs because as a child with autism it helps him learn social skills in a fun, safe setting and to make new friends. I choose PSP programming because of the staff, who are amazing, professional and treat each child with love, patience, care and respect. When I see the itineraries for the camp days, I almost wish I could attend too! Each day is filled with activities to engage the imagination, broaden horizons, have fun and learn. Being attentive to Evan’s needs and adjusting activities based on his capabilities or comfort is crucial to his well-being and development. They have encouraged him to safely test boundaries by trying new things and joining in activities. They make him, and all the kids, feel like an integral part of the group. I have seen an amazing difference in Evan after attending the programs. He forms strong bonds with everyone involved, his communication skills have improved, he shares stories about his day and his recall improves, he displays more independence and is more relaxed. He comes home every day with a big smile on his face, looking forward to the next day. What more could a parent ask for?” CFMWS was recognized with the 2016 Parks and Recreation Ontario President’s Award of Distinction. This award recognizes exceptional contributions or a long-term commitment to the advancement of parks and recreation in Ontario. “Our services are tailored to help families with the challenges they may face due to postings and deployments, and make the most of everyday activities such as recreation and sports. By ensuring the highest quality of programming, we help create stronger, more resilient and happy families.” Peter Atkinson Senior Vice President PSP
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IN THE KITCHEN WITH A MASTERCHEF If you have attended Health Promotion’s Weight Wellness Lifestyle Program, you understand the importance of developing an eating plan and adjusting portion sizes for healthy weight loss. If you think that means being stuck with lettuce and rice cakes, you could not be further from the truth. “Contrary to popular belief, healthy dishes can be made as delicious and as exciting as you want,” says celebrity chef Michael Bonacini. “More than ever, chefs are appreciating that vegetables are so much more than just a garnish. Sourcing fresh, high-quality ingredients from trusted local suppliers allows the dish’s natural flavours to shine.”
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Bonacini currently appears as a judge on CTV’s MasterChef Canada. He was born and raised in Tenby, South Wales where he spent his youth helping out with the family-run hotel business. Bonacini trained under Chef Anton Mosimann at London’s Dorchester Hotel before immigrating to Canada in 1985 and partnering with veteran restaurateur Peter Oliver in 1993. He recently opened Beaumont Kitchen, a fashionable all-day dining lounge, in Saks Fifth Avenue in Toronto.
“We wanted the menu to be ingredient-driven, with a focus on natural flavours,” he says. “By showcasing whole foods in simple, authentic and unique ways, the menu encourages guests to indulge without guilt. After all, a dish can be indulgent without being deep-fried.” Bonacini has noticed that people are becoming more fascinated with food and are more inspired to cook. Getting involved with MasterChef was a way to share his knowledge
and passion for food. He encourages families to reap the rewards of eating healthy meals, and to show his support of the troops he has shared these recipes from Beaumont Kitchen. “I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the work that you do and some of the challenges you face,” he says. “Speaking from myself and many Canadians, we appreciate what it is that you do for us each and every day. I hope that you are all able to come back home and enjoy great meals.”
SMOOTHIE BOWL RECIPE Serves 1 INGREDIENTS 2 cups frozen banana 1 cup frozen cherries 15g dates, seeded and softened in the microwave 2g cocoa powder ½ cup almond milk ½ cup granola Fresh fruit, to garnish Method Purée the frozen fruit, dates, cocoa powder and almond milk together. Pour into a bowl that has been thoroughly chilled in the fridge. Garnish with fresh fruit of your choice – we use strawberries and mango!
Chef ’s Secret - Buy the bananas ripe and let them go black while they sit on the counter, until they are almost rotten. The fruit inside will be as sweet as caramel.
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SPICED BEET SALAD RECIPE Serves 2 INGREDIENTS 4 large red beets 330ml white wine vinegar 2/3 cup sugar 1 tbsp salt 2 ¾ cups water 1 tbsp cinnamon 1 tbsp fennel seed 1 tbsp star anise 1 cup ricotta 1 tbsp olive oil 1 lemon, zested 2 tbsp lemon juice Ground black pepper 3/4 cup crushed walnuts, roasted 2 sprigs of mint
Method Toast the cinnamon, fennel seed, and star anise, and add to an airtight plastic bag. Bring the white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and water to a boil and then chill to fridge temperature. Use this liquid to marinate the beets in the bag overnight. Combine ricotta with olive oil, lemon zest and juice, salt and pepper. Assemble the salad of beets and ricotta. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, roasted walnuts, and mint.
Chef ’s Secret – For the ricotta, use an olive oil that is very green and in your face. This gives the otherwise mild ricotta a nice punch of flavour. SET YOUR SIGHTS ON HEALTHY EATING:
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Eat a wide variety of brightly coloured vegetables and fruit every day to help you reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke! -Strengthening the Forces
I CAN'’T AFFORD IT”…: WHAT DOES THIS ACTUALLY MEAN? “
Pierre S. Goulet, CFP, FMA, FCSI, Associate VP, Client Services Delivery, SISIP Financial In every life choice, whether in matters of health, finances or otherwise, we are constantly deciding between what we can and what we can’t afford to do. Can I afford not to exercise? Can I afford movie night every week? While the importance of keeping fit by exercising and eating well is a secret to no one, we often fail to realize that getting one’s finances in shape is a huge factor in achieving overall health and wellness. My spouse and I are somewhat uneasy with the phrase “we can’t afford it,” particularly in front of friends, co-workers, and even family. But why does it cost so much to utter those few straightforward words? People envision a number of scenarios, both positive and negative: • I n the negative scenario it means “We literally cannot scrape together enough money to buy this, even with credit cards or a loan…we may even have to sell our SMART TV in order to afford it!” Not to mention one always feels compelled to add the word “sorry”! • Another, more positive scenario could mean “We have consciously decided to forego using a credit card or loan until we have accumulated enough savings to actually pay for the purchase up front”. This is a very positive and healthy attitude, requiring determination and conviction!
• I n another positive situation, the money is allocated elsewhere.“We can afford it but we choose not to go out for wings and a movie with co-workers because we would rather save that money to build a down payment for our first home.” This could also apply to your choice of vehicle: “We can afford the new car with all the bells and whistles (built-in Wi-Fi, heated steering wheel…), but we choose to buy a 3 year old, economical four door sedan with low mileage.” In the first case, the stigma of not being able to “keep up with the Joneses” is in part to blame for our reluctance to say these words out loud. Or perhaps, we do not want to worry relatives and friends with our situation, or even talk about why and how we choose our priorities. Ultimately however, it is important to realize that not being ashamed of articulating these four words, early on in life, can be the difference between living with the burden and stress of a never-ending debt load, or laying down the building blocks to a healthy, long term financial plan for our family. SISIP Financial believes that financial health and security go hand in hand with physical and mental health and wellness… Talk to a SISIP Financial advisor about getting your finances in shape as part of your overall health and wellness plan.
To help secure your financial health and wellbeing, know when to say… “I can’t afford it” CONTACT A FINANCIAL ADVISOR TODAY! sisip.com
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Camille Douglas, 19 Wing Comox
BOOMER'’S LEGACY
BOOMER'S LEGACY August 11 will mark a decade since Maureen and Hans lost their youngest boy. Corporal Andrew James Eykelenboom was killed by a suicide bomber attack while serving with the 1st Field Ambulance in Afghanistan. He was 23, in the final days of his seven-month deployment. Andrew was the 26th Canadian killed in Afghanistan and the first Canadian medic to die since the Korean War. It was that day in 2006 that the Eykelenboom family formed a bond with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) that would impact the lives of thousands in Canada and around the world.
“I knew the day after he was killed that I would start a foundation called Boomer’s Legacy,” Maureen explains, “so that soldiers on patrol could access funds for humanitarian projects in Afghanistan.”
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Nicknamed “Boomer”, those who served with him knew that he left this world a better place. “One of the things Andrew wrote home about was a small thing he did that put a smile on a child’s face. He said it was the most important thing about this tour,” Maureen shares. Andrew’s humanitarian spirit lives on today through Boomer’s Legacy, with over a million dollars raised in the last ten years to help men and women in uniform make a positive difference by providing food, medical supplies and other essentials to those affected by the conflict. “A process has recently been established to distribute funds on domestic projects that meet the original mandate and mission of Boomer’s Legacy,” according to Chief of the Defence Staff, General J.H. Vance. “This foundation will remain forever the symbol of the impact that Cpl Eykelenboom had on those with whom he served to help others.”
The foundation is now a fund under the Support Our Troops Program, part of Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS). At home or abroad, when a member of the CAF is in a position to help local people, Boomer’s Legacy can assist. The application process is outlined at supportourtroops.ca. Hundreds of Canadians have played a role in Boomer’s Legacy, many by joining the annual Boomer’s Legacy BC bike ride, an incredible two-day cycling experience that covers 240 km of Vancouver Island. The ride’s hundred cyclists each carry the biography of a fallen soldier, and a ceremony to honour the soldiers’ service to Canada concludes the event. Similar Boomer’s Legacy bike rides and ridea-thon events have also been held in Ottawa and Nova Scotia.
“I know that this is what my son would have wanted,” says Maureen. “Helping our soldiers help others is our mission, and it’s what we will always do, no matter where they are.”
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SOLDIER ON - ACTIVE FOR LIFE Soldier On is a Canadian Armed Forces program that supports serving members and veterans to overcome their physical or mental health illness or injury through physical activity and sports. No matter a person’s skill or fitness level, Soldier On is sure to offer something of interest, from elite sports events to local recreation activities. Here’s just a sample of the opportunities that bring members together:
SADDLE UP – FOR THE EQUESTRIAN ENTHUSIAST Participants receive training from world-class RCMP instructors and are introduced to the fundamentals of horsemanship.
HIKING CAMP – FOR THE NATURE LOVER
An introduction to outdoor activities such as hiking and climbing in the scenic landscape of Nova Scotia.
GOLF CAMP – FOR THE GOLF FANATIC
An opportunity for instruction, practice and a round of golf for those who want to make golf a part of their active lifestyle.
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PADDLE CAMP – FOR THE PADDLER
Participate in a number of different activities including ground training and the practical application of paddling activities.
ALLIED WINTER SPORTS CAMP – FOR THE COLD WEATHER SPORTS FAN
A chance to participate in moderate to high-paced winter sporting activities.
BIKE RIDES – FOR FAMILY BONDING
Taking bike rides are a fun way to spend some quality time with your family and stay active for life.
ARCHERY – FOR THOSE WITH A KEEN EYE
Archery brings a sense of calm, providing discipline, focus, training and clarity of the mind for absolute situational awareness.
Soldier On is more than just sport. It challenges members in ways they never thought possible by rediscovering confidence in their abilities and regaining that feeling of belonging. Thanks to donations and support from Canadians, Soldier On funds equipment and training expenses that will keep members active for life.
VISIT WWW.SOLDIERON.CA FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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They live in remote and isolated communities in Quebec. They have in common their youth, enthusiasm, and openness to the world, and they are proud of their culture. These young people live in northern Quebec and on the Lower North Shore. It would take a lot more than isolation and different living conditions to keep them from engaging in the activities that help them grow and develop. HOCKEY: A SHARED PASSION
LIVING IN A REMOTE AREA AND STAYING ACTIVE... IT’'S POSSIBLE! Captain Karine Roy Information Officer, 2nd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (2 CRPG)
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From north to south, hockey is certainly a shared passion among many remote youth. They are true fans, and many wield a stick and a puck for fun or as part of a structured team. The Nunavik Youth Hockey Development Program gives Inuit youth a chance to play hockey while passing on values such as cooperation, respect and perseverance. This winning combination builds team spirit and contributes to individual development, as embodied by the journey of 17 year-old Naomi SalaGauvin from Kuujjuaq. Naomi was a player and later a goalie, and is now involved as a goalie coach. This year, she accompanied an Atomlevel team to several tournaments. Joé Juneau, a former NHL player who is very involved with this program, describes Naomi’s story: “She really get the purpose of the program and its objectives. She has reached a point where she shares her knowledge and wisdom as a coach.
She does outstanding work, and makes a difference by supervising and guiding the young people.” TRADITIONAL GAMES Hockey is not the only game in town. Youth play broomball, run, bike, snowshoe or swim. There are also traditional Inuit games that help build physical strength, skill and endurance such as the sledge jump, which involves jumping over a row of 10 sleds, or the one-foot high kick, where the player has to kick an object suspended a certain distance from the ground with one foot. These games are also among the events in the 2016 Arctic Winter Games in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. Living in a remote area also means having direct and privileged access to nature and outdoor activities. Young people fish and hunt using traditional or modern methods, according to how they were taught. THE JUNIOR CANADIAN RANGERS PROGRAM The Junior Canadian Rangers program is a national program for youth aged 12 to 18 who live in remote or isolated communities where Canadian Rangers are present. Young people who join this program learn about traditional lifestyles and acquire basic skills. The program includes a variety of activities (sports, fishing, first aid, etc.) that enable youth to be active and to take on different challenges. The Rangers program has a flexible approach that enables communities to impart cultural values, local languages and regional skills. In addition to local and regional activities, there are developmental training sessions in the summer. In Quebec, more than 700 young people from 33 communities take part in the program. Of these, 200 will attend the Valcartier summer session between June 25 and July 1, 2016. This is convincing proof that it is possible to live in a remote area and stay active. As Naomi sums it up, “You have to love what you do, never give up, and never let anyone discourage you. You should never shy away from trying a hobby or a sport just because it does not seem like fun. Give it a chance, because otherwise you’ll never know.”
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CFB SHILO MUSEUM SHOWCASES LOCAL MILITARY HISTORY Sarah Francis, CFB Shilo Did you know ammunition used by soldiers in the First World War was manufactured in Brandon? The 26th Field Brandon Royal Canadian Army and 12th Manitoba Dragoons Museum has two 18-pound rounds donated to their collection. Artifacts continue to roll in every day at the museum. Curator Ed McArthur is proud to be a part of the team preserving Canadian military history. It’s not just artifacts they have on hand, there’s also an extensive archive and library. “I think it’s important to have the museum so people can come in with a name and maybe a service number and research the history of these soldiers,” he said, adding that often people don’t know the value of items they possess. McArthur said Brandon has changed a lot in the last 100 years. A miniature reconstruction of what part of the city looked like a century ago is on display. It shows the area behind what is now the Ag Centre.
A family would receive a dead man’s penny if they lost someone on the battlefields during the First World War. It was converted from a teachers college into the Canadian Army Training Centre. It is the only building left from that era. The museum is lined with displays and features a number of headdress and weapons on the walls and banisters. Clothing from both World Wars is on display as well as a collection of items from a Prisoner of War. One artifact on display is a Memorial Plaque or “Dead Man’s Penny”, which is of particular interest to McArthur. “[For] every soldier that died in the First World War, one of these memorial plates was issued by the King with a little letter that went with it in memory of his service,” explained McArthur. “It has inscriptions on it with Britannia and things in the nature of interest to the military in the First World War. There is a little rectangular box on it and in that is a person’s name.” The plaque was issued to the mother of the fallen, with the idea of having it placed on the parents’ gravestone. McArthur believes that any community with a military history should try to invest in a museum.
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A museum staffer shows off a German helmet from the Great War that is part of the collection.
“If you do not record your history and have it [where] it’s accessible to the public, then you’re bound to lose that history,” he offered.
Spot light - CFB Gagetown Trews Concert May 14 2016
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’ ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FINDING & FIXING YOUR PERFECT HOUSE Jonathan and Drew Scott have taken television by storm with their four hit shows, Property Brothers, Property Brothers at Home, Buying & Selling, and Brother vs. Brother. The talented duo’s good-natured rivalry, playful banter, and no-nonsense strategies have earned the popular twins millions of devoted fans. In this issue of PLAY, they share some of their tips and tricks for the renovations that give you the best return on investment, but also give you the most enjoyment and functionality in your home. OPEN FLOOR PLAN: Boxed-in, tiny kitchens cut off the social function of a house. In the past, you wanted to shut out the noises of the kitchen—but now it’s all part of the enjoyment of family and friends. The majority of older, un-renovated homes in North America are closed off and compartmentalized. The only way to bring a feeling of spaciousness to those homes and make them feel bigger is to open them up. STORAGE: No matter how we try to downsize, we’ve still got stuff. And home life is more pleasant if there’s a place to put it. Adding storage in the basement, mudroom, bedrooms, and attic (or all of the above!) is a big plus for future buyers too. Look for creative storage solutions too, because you can never have too much. For instance, elevated shelving for bicycles and other gear in a garage helps keep lower areas clear. In one house we built hidden storage drawers right inside the first three steps of the stairway to the second floor. It was a great place to keep shoes and boots, dog leashes, gloves, and so on. Likewise, we love putting in toe-kick drawers on the bottom of lower kitchen cabinets; they are the perfect place to store large flat items like serving trays and baking sheets. To one kitchen cabinet toe kick, we added a drawer for the family dog’s dishes. Banquettes and window seats can be built with hinged tops for loads of hidden storage. There is generally enough room on the inside of the pantry door to install storage racks and hooks. Sometimes Jonathan will screw a magnetic plate to the underside of a pantry shelf, which will hold numerous Mason jars (with metal lids) that can store all sorts of things.
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HOT AND COOL STUFF: Up-to-date, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems go a long way to making life more comfortable—and your monthly utility bills more affordable. These are big-ticket items that add a lot of value.
HIGH CEILINGS: If there is plenty of space up in your attic, depending on the roof structure, it can be pretty easy to vault the ceiling, giving you an additional five to ten feet in the room. High ceilings make a huge difference. MASTER BATH: A bath attached to the master bedroom in a house is a pleasant surprise, even for homebuyers who don’t put it on their wish list. Sometimes an adjoining room can be converted to create a master bath and even a bigger walk-in closet. DURABLE SURFACES: We love materials like quartz and NeoLith for durability and no maintenance, but other products add beauty and value too, like marble and granite—they just need more maintenance. Try to avoid materials that scratch too easily because you’ll shed a single tear when you scuff them up within the first week. Solid surface flooring takes many forms as well. Take your pick of tile, hardwood, single board laminate, or vinyl plank; most people prefer an easy-to-care-for floor to highmaintenance, allergencollecting wall-to-wall carpet. CUSTOM CLOSETS: A great closet system, with shelving and multiple height rods, is a bonus for you and future buyers. This is especially true if you have no room in a master bedroom for a walk-in closet. A properly organized closet exploits existing space to its best advantage and many systems can be installed for only a few hundred dollars.
FINISHED BASEMENT: Real estate pros argue about this one, but we think anytime you can add finished storage or living space to a house it’s worth it. It’s also one of the least-intrusive but bigimpact changes you can make to a home. Work can go on downstairs while you’re living upstairs without too much stress and strain on the family. Just don’t cut corners as basements need to be renovated properly or you’ll have moisture problems. And really, really think about the best use of the space. A little extra work like putting in another bathroom may separate your place from other houses when you decide to sell. NATURAL LIGHT: We’ve yet to meet a buyer who tells us they want a dark house. There’s probably one somewhere, hard at work looking for a good deal on a deep cave, but that person has never been a client of ours. Adding or enlarging windows is generally a safe bet if your home is noticeably dark. In addition to updating your home’s look and enhancing curb appeal, installing new windows can help save on heating and cooling costs. Just be very careful to run the numbers because this is the one upgrade that can easily get out of control. FUNCTIONAL, ATTRACTIVE EXTERIOR DOORS: Updating an old manual garage door with new, automatic garage doors adds both curb appeal and functionality to the exterior of
your house. New front and back doors do the same. A new front door can really brighten up a house and give it a whole new look without a lot of expense or work. Also consider swapping the back sliding door for beautiful French doors that open to your back deck.
RENO NO-NOS Of course, you want to emotionally connect with your home, but you can’t allow emotions to steer the direction of your renovation. Just as there are features you want in a house, and that also increase the value of the space, there are changes you should not make to a house. These are features that can bite you back when it’s time to sell—and that may even start to annoy you after a while. We don’t want you to make these mistakes. So …
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Don’t turn a small third bedroom into a walk-in closet. In family-friendly neighborhoods, a house with three small bedrooms is still more valuable than a house with two bedrooms and a big closet. If you do commandeer a bedroom for storage, don’t do anything that destroys the structural integrity of the room’s “separateness.” In other words, don’t annex it to another bedroom, or close off a door that opens to a hallway.
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Don’t get rid of the only bathtub. If you ever hope to sell your house to a family with kids, a house without a tub is going to be a turnoff. You don’t have to have a bathtub in the master, unless the house is in a retirement community, but do keep a tub in the shared or family bathroom.
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Don’t convert a garage into a family room. Buyers expect to see a garage in communities that commonly feature them. So if your house is the odd man out, many buyers won’t even look at it. If you need extra space for family gatherings, consider finishing the basement, or enclose a threeseason porch and make it into a real room. Just don’t permanently eliminate the garage; make sure it can easily be converted back if necessary.
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Don’t spend a fortune building in a custom home theatre. Flat screen televisions will only continue to improve in terms of sound and picture quality. The components needed to create a feeling of being surrounded by sound will get smaller and less intrusive. The problem is that buyers say they love the idea of a movie room, but they’re not willing to pay for it. In addition, technology is changing so fast that all this gear you spent a fortune on easily becomes dated … even if you sell in five years. Consider having some cool technology in a flexible space, like a family room that offers a variety of uses. Wireless surround sound systems give you great sound without having to tear open walls; recessed lighting on dimmers in basements where ceilings are typically low and rooms dark gives you options for brightness in a room for watching movies. If you want both a fireplace in the family room and a TV and the only place to put the TV is over the fireplace, which can be too high for comfortable viewing, consider getting a high tech TV wall mount system that not only lets you tilt the screen to any angle, but also lets you pull the TV away from the wall and lower it to a more natural and comfortable height.
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Don’t put in a pool. In most cases a swimming pool does not add enough value to a house to offset the cost of putting it in. Not even close. In fact, many buyers consider them a maintenance hassle, and those with small children are often afraid of the safety risks associated with backyard pools. The only place a pool makes sense is in very warm climates where people spend time outside all year long. For instance, in Southern U.S. states and certain areas of California, a pool is an asset to you and future buyers. But still keep in mind you won’t get all your money back for putting it in, even in these climates, mainly because of on-going maintenance and energy costs. So if you put one in you’d better use it a lot because from a financial standpoint it’s still a no-no. Don’t build highly specific rooms that can’t be easily changed. A bowling alley, indoor hot tub, indoor basketball court, wine cellar, and cigar room may have extremely limited appeal. Unless the market you’re in can sustain these kinds of luxury add-ons, they just are not worth the money. Get a simple wine cooler and smoke your stogies outside! DREAM HOME Copyright © 2016 by SB Publications LLC. Reproduced by permission of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. All rights reserved.
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Military Family Panel Process #MyVoice is part of the Military Family Panel Process. Led by Military Family Services, it’s a forum that’s open to all military family members. Every voice counts – join in and discuss what matters to you! Your feedback is shared with other service providers and military leadership, and will be integrated into programs and services. Any actions that are taken from your feedback will be communicated back to you.
Family Info Line
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The CFOne card was recently enhanced giving cardholders more access to Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) programs. In addition to giving it a new look, the enhanced card now displays the member status within the Canadian Armed Forces community on the face of the card, making it easier for corporate partners to extend their services. With more than 165,000 cards in circulation, the CFOne card now provides access to the following programs and services: a) C F Appreciation Program – The Official Discount Program of the Canadian Armed Forces community with thousands of opportunities to save; b) Members Only Pricing, the No Interest Credit Plan and CANEX Reward Points through CANEX, Canada’s Military Store; c) DFit and DFit for Families: a mobile platform to support physical fitness and well-being; d) The Canadian Defence Community Banking (CDCB) Program, delivered by BMO Bank of Montreal with savings on banking plans and preferred mortgage options; e) Vacations for Veterans*: complimentary accommodations delivered by Shell Vacations Club; f ) Support Our Troops Scholarships*: full time and part time education bursaries awarded annually; and g) Support Our Troops National Summer Camp Grants*: providing military families with a grant to defray the cost of one week of summer camp. *program eligibility applies – for details, refer to the program terms and conditions
With cards available to each family member, it is encouraged that all apply. As additional programs leverage the CFOne number, you and your family will be prepared for when they integrate. CF Appreciation will also leverage the growth in cardholders to gain deeper discounts at existing partners, and establish new partnerships for your benefit. Be sure to tell everyone you know about CFOne, and encourage them to apply.
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RECREATION BY THE NUMBERS TOTAL RECREATION MEMBERSHIPS
325
50,845
CAF FACILITIES USED FOR RECREATION
HOURS PER WEEK CAF FACILITIES ARE DEDICATED TO CASUAL RECREATION USE
282
SPECIAL EVENTS
100,146
SPECIAL EVENT PARTICIPANTS
228
RECREATION CLUBS
RECREATION CLUB MEMBERS
3,267
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978
RECREATION PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS
17,956
RECREATION PROGRAMS
59,810
Board with photos
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