COMPASS MAGAZINE VI | ISSUE 49 | FEB/MAR 2024 | REFINEMENT

ISSUE 49 REFINEMENT · FEBRUARY + MARCH 2024 Sharing the Direction of Vancouver Island Communities

Coastal Chronicles

MAKING ROMANCE IN THE MOUNTAINS

SPONSORED COPIES FREE INSTORE OR RETAIL PURCHASE $5CAD

Growing Up Coastal

TOM SEWID WE BELIEVE!

THE INTREPID BLAIR MCLEAN

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

Wellness Artist

POLARITIES AND JUNCTIONS AT THE COMOX AIRPORT Issue 49 |

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Non-Stop from Comox to Puerto Vallarta Escape Winter with Twice Weekly Service with WestJet.

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Sharing the Direction of Vancouver Island Communities

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WE ARE ART

Wendy Morosoff Smith

CV/ARTS Staff

COASTAL CHRONICLES

A Couple’s Guide to Romance in the Mountains Dave Flawse

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Barry Gough's biography of Richard Blanshard

Dave Flawse

FEATURE ARTIST

Tom Sewid | We Believe!

Kealy Donaldson

WALKING IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS

Environmental Education Pioneers Myrna & Jim Boulding

Catherine Marie Gilbert

WELLNESS ARTIST

Polarities and Junctions at The Comox Airport

Jennifer Casey

GROWING UP COASTAL

The Intrepid Blair McLean Catherine Marie Gilbert

STAY WELL

Refining Your Way Through Life

Dana Mahon

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COMPASS MAGAZINE ISSUE 49 · FEBRUARY + MARCH 2024

Publisher's Note Refinement

By definition, refinement refers to the prevention or minimalization of pain and suffering and to enhance welfare. One can see the relevance in how using refinement would benefit them in their daily mantras and life in general.

True refinement seeks simplicity – Bruce Lee From one of the most accomplished and focused creative personalities that has lived in this past century, refinement is a misunderstood acquisition. Why must we be refined? That doesn’t seem applicable to me or my approach to life. After some digging and soul searching, here’s why I bring refinement up to your consciousness, for much consideration.

I came across a chart on Moon Phases and how they influence you; I never really paid much attention to the waxing and waning of the almighty Luna. The moon heads into ‘waxxing gibbous’ right as it appears full; this phase is referred to as ‘refinement’. At the very beginning of a full moon, it is still gaining strength to position itself and it takes a strong energy to be the brightest it can be.

Hard for us to undertake that capacity when we are not in control of celestial movement and the power of the universe.

So here’s the homework for all of us to apply ~ be cognizant to not invest time and energy into situations that will bring forward outcomes of pain or suffering. Put your own, you - your family - your team’s, welfare first and allow this progress to harness the full energy of external light and flame. Wishing you much peace and happiness ~ dig deep, it is there.

Gilakas’la, Emote, Marsii

Kealy Donaldson PUBLISHER

compassmagazine@ourmail.com www.compassmagazine.ca

MAGAZINE PUBLISHER Kealy Donaldson

COVER

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jessie Stones

Tom Sewid

The Compass Magazine is produced on Vancouver Island, printed on the West Coast of British Columbia and published on Vancouver Island paper by: Kiki's Communications Inc. ISSN# 2369-8063 101-1811 Comox Ave Comox, BC V9M 3L9 250.203.1880 compassmagazine@ourmail.com www.compassmagazine.ca

Jennifer Casey

Entire magazine contents are copyright.

All rights reserved.

Mr Sasquatch with Salmon CONTRIBUTORS Kealy Donaldson Dave Flawse Catherine Marie Gilbert Shaun Koopman Dana Mahon CV/ARTS Staff Andrea Wagemaker CONNECT WITH US Facebook | LinkedIn Kealy Donaldson

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WE ARE ART

Spring is Coming!

Wendy Morosoff Smith at Polarities + Junctions CV/ARTS STAFF

WENDY MOROSOFF SMITH IS a contemporary Canadian painter and printmaker whose work reflects the spiritual aspect of the Canadian landscape. Blending abstraction and landscape symbolism with the study of light and space, Wendy creates meditations on place, time, the elements, memory and perception.

Her upbringing on the prairies influenced her use of the horizon line as a dramatic point of reference.

Wendy studied printmaking at the Santa Reparata Institute in Florence, Italy and at the Emily Carr University in Vancouver. She now lives on Vancouver Island, painting and printmaking in her studio overlooking the Salish Sea. Wendy’s artwork has been collected and exhibited extensively in Canada and abroad.

Wendy is a featured artist at the current CVArts + YQQ Arts and Culture Program, Polarities + Junctions. She describes how her piece on display, Lilac Moon addresses the theme in her artist statement. “This piece

Campbell River Boatland has Silver Streak, Boulton and Shadowline boats on the ground ready for YOU!

is part of a series that I've worked on for the past five years where I observed the full moon as it rose over the Salish Sea each month. I then created a painting inspired by my observations and impressions. There's a mysterious symbiotic relationship between the earth and the moon. The moon is held in orbit by the earth's gravity and in response, the moon's gravity creates our tides and cyclical change. This push and pull convergence is essential to our experience of time, light and the seasons.” www.wendymsmith.com

@wendymsmithartist

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3 1 2 5 N O RT H I S L A N D H I G H WAY 2 5 0. 2 8 6.0752 | 1. 87 7. 2 8 6.0752 W W W. C A M P B E L L R I V E R BOAT L A N D. C A Issue 49 |

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A Wedding with 49 North Helicopters © Erin Wallis Photography

C O A S TA L C H R O N I C L E S Mountain Love : A couple’s guide to romance in the hills DAV E FLAWSE

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE OUTDOOR SPOT to go on

James Headrick from Island Life Expeditions special-

a date? Our coast is a mosaic of stunning natural land-

izes in helicopter-access stand-up-paddle (SUP) tours,

scapes, and the options are limitless—wave-lapped

where adventurers paddle green-blue glacier lakes be-

beaches, dewy, moss-strewn forests, or the boul-

low overhanging, snow-capped peaks. His tour outfit

der-speckled banks of eddying rivers. But some loca-

also airlifts couples to Coast Range and Vancouver Is-

tions are harder to reach.

land mountains where love is in the air.

Why do mountain vistas shared with a loved one cause

A photo on Island Life Expedition Facebook Page cap-

us to sit a little closer together? Is it the solitude? Does

tures a young man on one knee at the moment his part-

the scenic beauty allow our hearts to see more beauty

ner says yes. He’s still holding the little clamshell box,

in person next to us? Is oxygen deprivation making us

and she is leaning in for a kiss, both hands on his cheeks.

cloudy?

“She was surprised,” says Headrick. He’d helped or-

Whatever the reason, mountain love is a growing trend.

chestrate the complicated logistics with the young

Local tourism operators fly couples from around the

man, who had come all the way from Texas, and a

world to otherwise inaccessible mountain tops. And it

connecting flight via Toronto to rendezvous with his

all begins with the proposal.

partner, to this spot.

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For some couples, the lofty, up-high places set the backdrop for a life-long commitment. Tyler Cave from Cave Productions, shoots video for, among other things, mountain elopements.

At one of his most memorable shoots, a couple gazed into each other’s eyes while inside an ice cave. They said I do, the only other sound a cascading waterfall.

Cave suspects the remoteness and the novelty of sharing a unique experience draws lovers here. “These are places nobody has ever seen or been to before.”

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Post 2020, elopements have become more common. “We’re pretty busy with those in the summer,” says Bastain Fleury, a pilot for 49 North Helicopters.

In warm months, he flies at least three couples to get hitched every week.

While a traditional wedding can cost tens of thousands of dollars, even a ceremony that features a helicopter ride becomes comparatively inexpensive without those pesky guests. Also, the pictures and videos offer a scenic beauty you can’t get down low. And, says Fleury, “it’s a really cool flight.”

Whether on a date, popping the question, or sealing a commitment, the mountains offer lovers something poets have been trying to capture in words for millennia. And perhaps it can’t be fully expressed in words, pictures, or video. Perhaps the only way to take it all in is to get there, with your favourite person, of course.

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I SPOKE WITH BARRY GOUGH about his new book the morning after finishing the 300-or-so-page hardcover. While the book spans only a blink of Vancouver Island history, it leaves you with much to dwell on while you panic to think of questions to ask its author.

My challenge for our interview rested on which questions to pull from a roster of potential angles: Blanshard’s not-so-humble origins; the unfortunate circumstances of his short, three-year governorship; the impact he left on the Island besides a Victoria street name (spoiler: not much of one, it turns out); or whether he was one of these old-timey white dudes we’d sooner forget anyways.

I didn’t ask an in-depth question. Instead, I zoomed out and asked Gough why he chose to write about the now largely forgotten figure. The conversation led down a path to something still topical in Victoria today—real estate. (And guess what, the prospects of home ownership were just as depressing for the average person then too.)

For anyone interested in early settler Vancouver Island history, this book is indispensable. You can purchase at your locally owned bookstore or at the Richard Blanshard © RBCM Barry Gough © Zachary Gough

publisher’s website. (I don’t get paid for recommending books, just sleep better at night.) Enjoy!

Dave: Why did you choose to write a book about Blanshard?

Barry: Blanshard was always a ghostly figure, haunting the margins of Vancouver Island's early history.

And I've always thought that so much can be told by secondary figures or even tertiary figures that dance

O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H

around the edges of any great story.

It's all very well for students of history to continue to write another biography of James Douglas or in the history of the American West to do another book on

Historian Barry Gough discusses

Lewis and Clark, just as an example. But sometimes

his latest book, The Curious Passage

about because they're new and they can also tell us

of Richard Blanshard, a biography of the Colony of Vancouver Island's forgotten first governor

these secondary figures are more exciting to write something about the primary characters. And I think the revelatory aspect of this book is it shows how clearly James Douglas was into the Hudson Bay Company project at the expense of the colonization.

And I've demonstrated beyond a shadow of doubt the duplicity of the Hudson's Bay Company in ac-

DAV E F LAW S E

cepting the Charter of Grant, which was designed to populate Vancouver Island with British colonists. But

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James Douglas’s policies and that of his bosses, more particularly George Simpson, The Little Emperor, and his boss, Sir John Pelly, who was the head of the corporation in London, were to look after stockholders’ interests. And those stockholders’ interests were to keep selling furs and engage in the mercantile trades here— selling lumber, selling fish, selling wheat, engaging in the primary trades that the Hudson’s Bay Company had developed so much.

Now the Hudson’s Bay Company was under change at this time, as I explain. They were, first of all, of course, defending their fur realm of the north, which was New Caledonia on the mainland. But they were also engaging in this diversification of their trade. They were getting into shipping, they were getting into selling wheat

Fort Victoria’s exterior © RBCM

to the Russians, trading and exchanging gold to California, servicing whaling ships that needed provisions, etc. So, this is a marvelous company in terms of its adaptability, but the least of their interests, as I've dis-

Metchosin, Sooke,

closed, was colonization and settling of Britons here.

these

So that's a very good first question to start with. Why Blanshard? Well, he's the secondary figure. We can see the unfolding world through his eyes. We can see all the difficulties of the times. We get an indication of how the Americans were closing the border, seizing British ships, fining British traders, and upsetting attempts to take timber from the American side of the border. And from his point of view, we see the developments that occur at Fort Rupert [miners’ strikes and the Nahwitti War.] We see that Douglas may not have

places

are

the

where

the other minor communities have developed, and they are a direct result of the policies of Douglas to steer away the independent settlers and meanwhile to develop the lands in and around Fort Victoria.

chosen the best place for the mercantile activities to

Victoria becomes the first retirement center of the

develop on Vancouver Island.

old Hudson’s Bay Company traders. John Tod comes

Dave: At Fort Victoria?

first. William Henry McNeill settles in. Roderick Finlayson, William Fraser Tolmie, John Work. They all

Barry: Yes, at Fort Victoria in Camosun Harbor. Blan-

end up with these massive properties as of retirement,

shard would have preferred Esquimalt, which is a far

at least 100 acres, sometimes 400 acres. And when the

better harbour. We also see how, because the Hudson’s

Hudson's Bay Company relinquishes all these lands

Bay Company dominates all the metropolitan land

to these people and it goes through the privatization

of Victoria, which is now the city of Victoria, James

process, these are the people who are able to profit

Douglas steers all the private, independent settlers to

mightily from their own investments in the land.

the margins.

So, I wouldn't say there's skullduggery here. I think it's

He steers them to Sooke, where the Captain Grant sets

the natural way of real estate law. That if you acquire

up. He steers them to Metchosin, where James Coo-

a lot of land, you develop it. Then then you subdivide

per and Thomas Blinkhorn have properties. And, as

and sell off portions of it to your own benefit.

one of my readers so astutely pointed out, you can see now how these settlements in and around Victoria are not at the center of gravity, so to speak. Esquimalt,

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Dave: These guys made sure they were in the right place at the right time and able to take advantage of their situation as landowners?

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Barry: Right from the beginning. That's absolutely

Britannic Majesty’s paddlewheel sloop-of-war Driver,

correct. They were they were able to lay down their

steadily thumping forth on Imperial purpose, all that

markers and even the certain jurisdictions went to

Richard Blanshard could make out to port, in reflect-

these people. So, it's a fascinating real estate history

ed purple light upon the northern side, was a forested,

indeed.

rock-clad island rising to considerable height. Vancou-

Dave: Thanks, Barry!

Barry Gough is one of Canada’s premier historians and biographers. His insightful research and lucid writing spanning five decades have earned him high distinction. In 2022, he was awarded the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal for Historical Writing for Possessing Meares Island. He is a Fellow of the Society for the History of Discoveries. He lives in Victoria, BC. Gough brings a defining era of Pacific Northwest history into focus in this biography of Richard Blanshard, the first governor of Vancouver Island—illuminating with intriguing detail the genesis and early days of

ver’s Island they called it in those far-off days. This was his destination.

Richard Blanshard was governor of the young colony for three short, unhappy years—only one and a half of which were spent in the colony itself. From the very beginning he was at odds with the vastly influential Hudson’s Bay Company, run by its Chief Factor James Douglas, who succeeded Blanshard as governor of the colony of Vancouver Island and later became the first governor of the colony of British Columbia. While James Douglas is remembered, for better or worse, as a founding father of British Columbia, Richard Blanshard’s name is now largely forgotten, despite his vi-

Canada’s westernmost province.

tally important role in warning London of American

Early one wintry day in March 1850, after seven weary

of Haida Gwaii. However, his failures highlight the fas-

weeks out of sight of land, a well-dressed Londoner, a

cinating struggles of the time—the supreme influence

bachelor aged thirty-two, stood at the ship’s rail taking

of commerce, the disparity between expectations and

in the immensity of the unfolding scene. From Her

reality, and the bewildering collision of European and

A unique Indigenous experience

cross-border aggressions, including a planned takeover

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Issue 49 |

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FEATURE ARTIST

TOM SEWID WE BELIEVE!

K EA LY D ONA LD SON

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TOM SEWID WAS BORN IN ALERT BAY IN 1965, located off the Inside Passage of Northern Vancouver Island. For many years as a child, he watched the Dznunukwa Sasquatch Dancers carefully, in the Alert Bay Big House. Elders and his parents told the tale of the Wild Woman, and he was told to behave himself or he would get taken. Sewid remembers crying away as he past the graveyard and being so scared that he would be snatched; sometimes he would just run as fast as he could to get past all the memorials. Interestingly enough, his family shared ownership of the potlatch mask and dance that features Dznunukwa.

As a commercial fisherman, he would travel through some very remote marine-based locations. When Sewid started to talk to people about other people’s Sasquatch experiences on the coast, many sightings and recollections were shared. Lots of detailed descriptions, including sightings and vocals of Sasquatches, along the shorelines and in the West Coast forests were recalled.

Sewid started to journal all these activities and sightings. He was definitely fascinated by these creatures and watched a special TV show, narrated by Leonard Nimoy, in the mid 70s that convinced him to follow his passion for more understanding and knowledge about Dznunukwa and Sasquatches.

A little later down the timeline, Sewid worked on Village Island, as a native guardian of the village starting in 1989.

He did maintenance work like weed eating and building preservation for the use of in-bound tourists. He definitely had encounters there. Back again in 1991, on his salmon seiner, mid fall–Octoberish, he thinks–he and his crew heard whistles, chirps and bangs coming from the beach area. They put a spotlight on the beach, and saw two sasquatches on the beach – one female and one male. They must have shocked them as they ran down the beach, away from the spotlight. Later that night they kept watching and listening for any movement; this time between the edge of the forest and the beach, they heard noises and put the spotlight out again. It was a direct hit and it appeared to be the same two figures that they had encountered on the beach earlier, a female and a male.

After that, they took off in to the bush and weren’t seen again that night.

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It was 2012 when Sewid came face to face with Sasquatch on Compton Island. He was completely shocked, but open to the experience; he was working building cabins when the Sasquatch confronted him. He was changed forever.

In 2014 while visiting in Washington State, he was introduced to all the television shows that were featuring the Sasquatch trail. It inspired him to get involved with podcasting about Sasquatch. His interest and sightings made him very popular to interview and when you put his name into the search bar on YouTube, at least 10 interviews appear, most over an hour long each. The listeners to these podcasts are in the 100,000s; more and more interviews brought some popularity to his experiences and he became very involved in the Sasquatch community.

© Tom Sewid

He did a TV series and tells a funny story of how it came to be. “I pulled into Victoria trying to grab some water and food during a road trip. I got detoured by flaggers and found my way into CHEK TV to use their washroom. I introduced myself to the receptionist and asked for their involvement in filming a First Nation Tourism Show on the North Island. I was immediately introduced to the President of Chek TV. After one meeting, I had been signed to host the Aboriginal Adventures Canada. It was an incredible day! I was very excited to share my passion and knowledge of Sasquatch” Sewid shared.

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Sewid adds his concerns regarding the environment and recalls an old TV commercial. “It was Buckskin Indian paddling into the urban areas and was completely saddened with all the progress and thoughtlessness for the environment,” he says. “It is a clear calling to all First Nation peoples to protect the environment and understand that we need to protect all inhabitants on this planet. We are at a critical mass.”

He always uses traditional ways and guidelines with chance encounters and during Sasquatch investigations.

Sewid has been criticized about an incident of photographs of a burial site and remains; he admits he meant no harm. Sewid asked a photographer to take pictures of the burial area for a report for Chief & Council about remains being taken. While there is still much speculation about this incident, no charges were laid and Sewid continues sharing information about First Nation’s heritage along the Pacific Northwest coastline along with his passion for Sasquatch. He adds that there will be a Sasquatch movie released soon via Amazon and to watch for it in 2024.

It is a clear calling to all First Nation peoples to protect the environment and all inhabitants on this planet.

tried to learn. Joe Wilson was the one who really showed him the ropes with shapes and techniques. Many local Kwakiutl members helped him along and influenced his style with his art work.

With such a talent rich environment, he studies under some of the best: Gus Matilpi, Adam Dick, Jimmy Sewid, and Sandy Jacobson, to name a few. Sewid keeps his work very simplistic and traditional; this was the way he was taught.

Sewid was gifted thousands of wooden bowls from a famous bowl turner / lather Bill Luce from Washington State. Luce’s claim to fame was he could turn a perfect bowl; he was hurt a few years back in a bad motorcycle accident and needed to liquidate his supply. This massive inventory landed with Sewid and is now supplying him with a consistent canvas for his art work. Luce has now passed over a year ago; the opportunity has shown a great return on the bowls combined with his artwork. It was definitely a solid investment in the future of his art work.

Artwork and carving has taken more of his time now; he is a past member of Aboriginal Tourism BC and Canada and was an Appointed Chair. His involvement comes from having been one of the first commercial whale watching and bears tours on the west coast. Sewid heavily invests in Research and Development when involved with his business dealings. He was just appointed to the Native Brotherhood of British Columbia as a New Director and is currently the President of Pacific Balance Marine Management. He continues along with his art work daily… and keeps his senses open to a sighting opportunity of you know who!

You can see his work with Sasquatch and his art at www.sasquatchisland.com

Being from Alert Bay, he comes from a line of cultural and creative family members. James Sewid, a late Elected Chief Councilor of the Namgis and Tom's grandfather, produced numerous totem poles for the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. It was a family affair with his dad and others working away on these totems. He became enamored with carving and he would watch his dad, who worked for Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and 1 8 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 9

Aboriginal Adventures Canada www.youtube.com/@EclipsePictures Sasquatch Island Facebook Group

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© thodonal

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Virtual information session on Strathcona Regional District Emergency Support Services SH AU N KOOP M A N THE STRATHCONA REGIONAL DISTRICT (SRD) invites interested community members to attend a virtual information session about our Emergency Support Services program.

SESSION #1 Tuesday February 27th from 7:00pm – 7:30pm SESSION #2 Wednesday February 28th from 7:00pm – 7:30pm Both sessions are the same. No preregistration required, just show up. For more information and to obtain the Zoom link for this session please visit:

www.srd.ca/ess-recruitment Have you wondered how a family receives help when they are displaced by a disaster? Emergency Support Services (ESS) is the “heart of emergency response” by helping people have their basic needs cared for.

AS AN ESS RESPONDER YOU WILL: Fully assess those displaced by the emergency to evaluate their needs immediately following the event; complete documentation and ensure the appropriate supports are provided, such as shelter, clothing, food, comfort.

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Support the recovery of impacted individuals by providing referrals to partner agencies and other community-based assistance.

Within ESS there is a Pet Care Team because we recognize that failure to care for pets during an emergency has negative implications for the emotional and physical well-being of both the guardian and the animal.

During disasters the Pet Care Team offers assistance by providing services such as: Set up of temporary animal intake shelters, including care and maintenance of animals; and reuniting pets with their guardians.

Campbell River ESS trains on the last Monday of every month from 6pm to 8pm at the Campbell River Search and Rescue Hall located at 261 Larwood Rd. Volunteers are expected to contribute a minimum of 20-hours per year. Members receive funded training and are eligible for mileage reimbursement to attend training and exercises, where food is always provided.

If you would like more information or are interested in volunteering but unable to attend one of these sessions, please do not hesitate to contact Shaun at

skoopman@srd.ca or 250-830-6702.

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Myrna and Jim in 1973 © Myrna Boulding collection

WA L K I N G I N T H E I R F O O T S T E P S MYRNA & JIM BOULDING

At the Forefront of Environmental Education CATHERINE M A R IE GILB ERT

TODAY ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION COURSES

Jim solicited the support of Minister of Education

are offered in many schools and post-secondary insti-

Eileen Dailly, explaining that at Strathcona Park

tutions in British Columbia, and have been since the

Lodge they could provide courses in outdoor train-

mid 1970s, but some of the earliest courses were also

ing to teachers so that this would not happen again.

offered right here on Vancouver Island at what is now

The Lodge received a grant, and teachers could attend

a renowned outdoor education centre.

these new environmental courses at the Lodge free of charge.

When Myrna and Jim Boulding decided to transform their Strathcona Park tourist lodge situated on Upper

Still a relatively new concept, environmental educa-

Campbell Lake into an outdoor education centre in

tion at Strathcona Lodge was offered according to the

the early 1970s, they began with teacher training. This

Bouldings' philosophy of experiental learning—that

was prompted by an incident near Kamloops where

is, learning by doing. This meant that teachers would

teachers had taken school children out paddling and a

be taken out on trips that included outback camping,

number of them drowned.

canoeing and kayaking, advanced hiking and survival.

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

The focus of the program was on safety and leadership with environmental awareness, to benefit from being immersed in the wilderness environment.

Integral to the program was practising environmental awareness at the Lodge itself. This included reducing waste through recycling and composting, not commonly practised in the early 1970s, but expected of both staff and guests, and ‘doing more with less’. Because Strathcona Park Lodge produces its own pow-

Participants going on a trip © Myrna Boulding collection

er, course participants were introduced to alternative sources of power and learned how to conserve. For many, the idea of ‘lights out’ when the generator was turned off at nine in the evening was novel.

The Bouldings’ environmental program evolved from various sources. Already educators, having been highschool teachers in Campbell River, Myrna and Jim received supplementary training in England which included visits to Outward Bound institutions such as Plas Y Brenin in Wales, then adapted their classroom teaching skills and training to the outdoors. They also

Strathcona Park Lodge administration building 1974 © Myrna Boulding collection

relied on resource people and the knowledge of skilled instructors, initially British, to add to the course.

seriously declining. The lake water was tested, but it wasn’t until the early ‘80s that biologists determined

Their views on conservation were highly influenced by

that metal levels in the lake were extremely high. The

renowned conservationist and author Roderick Haig-

cultprit it turned out however, was not tailings, but was

Brown who was a close friend of theirs. Haig-Brown

acid waste from exposed ores that was killing the fish,

frequently visited the Lodge where he gave lectures on

and making lake water unsafe for consumption.

his concerns for the environment based on his observations of what was occuring in the province.

The Bouldings stressed stewardship of the environment as a main theme in their courses. Jim Boulding

In resource rich British Columbia, connections be-

said that he hoped that through the experience, teach-

tween industry and environmental degradation were

ers would feel encouraged to participate in preserving

and still are visible. Haig-Brown had observed how de-

the environment, would become aware of ecological

bris from logging clogged the waterways necessary to

problems and consider possible solutions.

the survival of salmon, that needed to swim upstream to spawn. The Bouldings did not resent logging, but

The three week long course was recognized by SFU

felt companies should be considerate of the habitat

(Simon Fraser University) as a credit course for stu-

they were working in.

dent teachers and conducted in cooperation with the Centre for Continuing Education, University of British

Mining however posed a problem that was very close

Columbia, SFU and the BC Teacher’s Federation. In

to home in neighbouring Strathcona Provincial Park

all, during the summer of 1974, 27 instructors lead 330

at Myra Falls, the south end of Buttle Lake. The Boul-

teachers through the courses developed by Strathcona

dings observed first hand that within a month of

Park Lodge & Outdoor Education Centre.

Western Mines beginning operations in 1965, tailings from the milling process dumped into Myra Creek

The year Jim passed away in 1986, he and Myrna’s

were going into Buttle Lake which was the source of

efforts were recognized by receipt of the Heaslip

the Lodge’s drinking water. They began hearing com-

Award for Environmental Stewardship from the United

plaints from fishermen that the trout population was

Nations Environment Program.

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

Issue 49 |

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

WELLNESS ARTIST

CV/Arts and YQQ staff installing large format works using a scissor lift. © CV/Arts Staff

WELLNESS ARTIST Exploring Polarities and Junctions at The Comox Airport JE NNIFER CASEY

THE COMOX AIRPORT HAS BECOME more than just a

the success of "Polarities and Junctions." Comox Valley

transportation hub; it's now an arts space hosting the

Arts, committed to fostering local artistic talent, curat-

inspiring art exhibition, "Polarities and Junctions." This

ed a showcase that not only celebrates diverse artists

carefully curated showcase invites visitors to embark on

but also prioritizes accessibility by offering artworks

a visual journey and be surprised along the way.

for sale without commission fees. The Comox Airport, traditionally a travel hub, has become an arts and

In a unique collaboration between local and re-

cultural space and in so doing, has filled a widening

gional artists, "Polarities and Junctions" offers a

gap for wall spaces to display the works by local art-

thought-provoking exploration of the intersections

ists. This collaboration showcases the powerful impact

between contrasting elements in our world. The ex-

that organizations can have when working together to

hibit, housed throughout the airport, transforms

enrich the cultural landscape of the community.

the bustling terminal into an immersive art experience that captivates passengers and locals alike.

The artists behind the featured works have responded to this year’s theme of “polarities and junctions.”

The

Comox

The result is a collection of works that challenge pre-

Valley Arts and the Comox Airport is at the heart of

long-standing

partnership

conceived notions and invite contemplation on the

2 2 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 9

between

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

inherent beauty found within the tension of opposing forces.

Moving through the exhibition, visitors encounter the concept of junctions—points of connection and convergence. The artists delve into the significance of these junctures, both in the physical and metaphorical sense, illustrating the interconnectedness of individuals and ideas. The artworks encourage viewers to reflect on the intersections in their own lives, where paths cross, decisions are made, and new possibilities emerge.

In a testament to the success of "Polarities and Junctions,” two standout pieces by artists Helen Utsal and Scott Bertram have recently found new homes. Utsal's work, characterized by its bold use of colour, drew the attention of a discerning collector, while Bertram's sculptural painted forms captivated another buyer.

What sets this exhibition apart is Comox Valley Arts' commitment to fostering a vibrant arts community.

Reflecting these values, all artworks are available for purchase without commission fees—a rarity in the art world. This decision underscores the organization's dedication to supporting both artists and patrons, creating a direct connection that aligns with the collaborative and community-driven ethos of the Comox Valley. By facilitating the sale of these pieces without added fees, the exhibition not only promotes the artists but also reinforces the belief that art should be accessible and celebrated within the local community.

ELAI NE SMI T H, “ PLAY I NG K IC K T HE C AN ON 21ST "

The airport setting adds a layer of symbolism to the exhibition. Airports are gateways to new experiences, connecting people and cultures from around the world. "Polarities and Junctions" mirrors this essence, celebrating the diverse narratives that converge at this bustling transportation hub. As you pass through the gates of the YQQ Comox Airport, take a moment to let the captivating visuals of this exhibition transport you into the realms of polarities and junctions—a journey where art serves as a bridge between diverse perspectives and a celebration of the beauty found in both contrast and connection.

SEAN REI LLY, “ NI NE 20”

You can visit the show from now until April 15, 2024.

The Comox Valley Airport is open to the public daily, 4 am to midnight. A virtual show is available online at www.comoxairport.com/yqq-art-collection W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

All works of art in the show are available for purchase, and 100% of sales go to the artists.

Issue 49 |

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

Blair with the Catch of the Day © Blair McLean collection

G R O W I N G U P C O A S TA L THE INTREPID BLAIR MCLEAN Making History on the Coast CATHERINE M A R IE GILB ERT IF YOU DON’T KNOW BLAIR MCLEAN of Campbell

Blair was educated in his home town of Victoria at Vic-

River, there is a very good chance that you’ve heard of

toria College, choosing to take one year of Arts and one

him. Tall and bearded with an unruly mane of white

of Education, since as a minister’s son he said, he felt

hair, he is a man with undeniable presence. As an ed-

without direction. He made his first foray into tourism

ucator, businessman, politician and toursim operator,

in Victoria in 1962, purchasing a beautiful cruiser to

Blair has left his imprint on the region from Campbell

take sightseers around the Inner Harbour. Although

River north, as well as an impression on the numerous

he and his partner found that the vessel proved too

people he has met over the years. An innate good talk-

expensive to operate, it spawned the idea of the Inner

er and entertaining story teller, Blair has the ability to

Harbour cruises that operate today.

get the most out of those who work for and with him.

He is also a man blessed with original ideas which over

His first posting as a teacher was in the communi-

the years he has brought to fruition, succeeding under

ty of West Lake near Prince George where his young

often very challenging circumstances. Most important

bride, June, “the debutante from Oak Bay” had already

of all, he has kept his sense of humour throughout.

been teaching for one year. They moved into a small

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teacherage (accommodation for teachers) which was so basic, they had no plumbing or electricity. This didn‘t faze Blair, who said, “We were in love.” Their first son Kevan was born there, however, when June was expecting their second child, she convinced her husband that it was time to move to friendlier climes and more comfortable housing.

The young family moved briefly to Victoria where their daughter Deanne was born, then Blair was offered a teaching position in Campbell River. They moved to the village in 1963, when it had just a population of about 3000. Blair spent 20 years in education, including six years at Evergreen Elementary School followed by seven years Rockland Elementary School at as principal. He was known for his innovation, taking students on field trips to destinations such as Calgary, a new concept at the time. The Board liked Blair, since he could travel by boat to visit remote schools at logging camps at Surge Narrows, Stuart Island and in Phillips Arm. His wife June was a well-liked elementary school teacher for 23 years, although took time off when their third child Jordan was born.

Although Blair enjoyed teaching, he was at a disadvantage without a university degree, and was paid less than other principals in the community. To earn income over the summer in the renowned Salmon Capital, Blair worked as a fishing guide at April Point Resort when it was owned by the Petersen family, then when the Discovery Inn was built in downtown Campbell River to replace the iconic Willows Hotel that had burnt down, Blair saw an opportunity. He leased a spot across from the Inn, installed a float house to use as an office and from 1964 to 1967 operated a fish guiding and boat rental business.

During this busy time, Blair also took a keen interest in local politics. Observing that the growing Campbell River did not have enough parks or recreational facilities, particularly for youth, nor showers in the Community Centre, he ran for village council, and served as Alderman from 1965 to 1971.

During his tenure he, Bud Adams and Chuck Salts established the first recreation commission and created Willow Point Park, home of the Sportplex. This is, he has remarked, the accomplishment he is most proud of.

He even made a stab at federal politics and hoped to serve as Member of Parliament under Conservative W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Photos from top: Hoeya Hilton brochure featuring Knight Inlet; Blair and Bobby Orr; “Just another day at the office”; Shoal Bay Lodge All photos © Blair McLean collection Issue 49 |

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

Robert Stanfield. While knocking on doors in the

erty and the plane. Bouncing back quickly, Blair pur-

North Island, he commented that he “met a lot of wild

chased Steep Island next to Quadra Island in 1982, and

dogs, but few Conservatives.”

by 1987 had acquired beautiful Shoal Bay Lodge on East Thurlow Island. Sadly, the lodge burned down shortly

At the request of his fishing customers, McLean began

after the new owner bought it from Blair in 2005.

exploring the waters further north in search of supe-

By the mid ‘90s, fish populations were noticeably de-

rior fishing grounds. He eventually made his way up

clining and as an alternative to sport fishing, Blair in-

Knight Inlet to Hoeya Sound. At this protected beach

troduced Grizzly bear tours. To Blair’s surprise these

he established a rough fishing camp with tents for

proved to be popular. “I didn’t think,” he said, “that

sleeping in. The fishing was excellent but his camp was

people would pay money to watch the bears scratch

sorely lacking in amenities, without even fresh run-

their hindquarters.”

ning water. When Thor Petersen was once visiting, he observed a guest poke a hole in a tarp that

In the off season, beginning in 1986, he would

had gathered water after the rain, so that he

spend half the year in New Zealand, where

could add some fresh water to his glass of

he offered fishing and eco tours at Lake

Scotch. “Blair,” Petersen commented,“

Taupo on the North Island. Blair gave

this is just like Hilton service!”

up his interests in New Zealand when June became ill in 1997, and at the

Seizing on this sardonic observation,

same time sold Knight Inlet Lodge

Blair named his camp the “Hoeya Hil-

so that he could be in Campbell Riv-

ton”. Conditions for guests improved

er to assist her.

when he purchased the neighbouring logging camp that came complete

Staying near home, Blair helped

with showers and comfortable cab-

form the Pier Street Association and

ins. Many of his regulars came from

was its first president. Members felt

working in the oil patch in Alberta, and

that this historic section of downtown

were soon nicknamed ‘Albert Crude’ to

Campbell River needed improvement.

describe their rowdy behaviour. One of

Murals painted on the walls of business-

Blair’s fond memories is keeping company with special guest hockey legend Bobby Orr, who as a non-drinker, preferred to stay apart from the

es in Pier Street were commissioned by the Association, and several barrels with flowers were placed along the street. Most importantly, the

‘Crudes’.

popular Pier Street Market was created in 2003.

Blair acknowledges that he never had a “master plan”.

Not quite finished with tourism, Blair became aware

In fact, he says, “It took me 30 years to get where I

of an opportunity in Port Alice. He observed a grow-

was going, but I didn’t know where I was going.” He

ing population of sea otters in nearby Quatsino Sound,

unexpectedly had to give up the property in 1972 and

and considered running tourists out to see them. In

moved further up the inlet to Glendale Cove, and at

2003, he purchased a five bedroom, three bathroom

the same time ran into legal difficulties with adopting

house on Neroutsos Inlet to provide accommodation

the “Hilton” brand name. He renamed his operation

and a boat to transport guests. Upon discussion with

Knight Inlet Lodge, had float cabins towed in and built

the village mayor, it was agreed to apply for the des-

a main lodge. He also created his own mini hydro

ignation “Sea Otter Capital of Canada” for Port Alice,

power system so that they would not be fully reliant

and this was achieved in 2018.

on generators. To bring guests to this remote location, in 1977, he purchased a Beaver floatplane.

Blair will be 85 this year, and has recently sold the house and tour operation in Port Alice, but does not

Two years later, he leased property at Denham Bay in

rest on his laurels. He enjoys taking people out local-

Cordero Channel to create a second fishing camp. This

ly on boat tours in summer to places such as Ripple

venture was short-lived. The economic downturn of

Rock. “I know the history,” says Blair, “and now I’m

1981 forced him to give up both the Denham Bay prop-

part of the history.”

2 6 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 4 9

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Issue 49 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 2 7

© Nikki Zalewski

SHIFT HAPPENS Five Ways to Protect Yourself from Energy Vampires ANDREA WAGEMAKER

HAVE YOU EVER MET someone who left you feeling

There may be energy vampires within your family,

completely depleted? You had lots of energy before

circle of friends, or at work. You can probably think of

meeting that person, but during the conversation you

one person right now who wears you out. Maybe they

literally felt your energy draining from you.

talk your ear off every time you get together and often complain about the same issue over and over again.

What are Energy Vampires?

Or maybe there’s that friend that texts you incessantly

Energy vampires can reveal a range of traits, but

about every little thing that bothers them.

a common characteristic is their negativity. They often thrive on absorbing the energy of others and fre-

The bottom line is that there are those who may not

quently concentrate on and vocalize their issues. Ad-

realize how much they take out of others by their neg-

ditionally, energy vampires may seek validation from

ativity or attention seeking. So how do you learn how

others, constantly craving attention to feel valued.

to cope with such people in a respectful and mindful way so that you can keep your own energy levels high.

These individuals are typically insecure and rely on

The following are some tips on how you can deal with

the approval and acknowledgment of others to feel a

those that tend to drain you.

sense of worthiness.

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

5 Ways to Protect Yourself from Energy Vampires

it may be to your benefit to learn how to just listen and don’t speak.

1. STAY GROUNDED Your first job is to learn how to stay grounded. To be “grounded” means that you secure a strong connection with your energy source or higher power. You may call this Source, God, Vortex, or something else.

Center yourself there consistently by meditation, prayer, silence, etc. That way, when an energy vampire shows up in your life, you’ll have a reservoir of energy to give, as well as wisdom to know when to excuse yourself from the person if they begin to cross your energy boundary.

2. SPEAK YOUR TRUTH Energy vampires may not be aware that they are draining you. They may not realize that they are being negative, controlling, rude, and so on. Know that it’s alright for you to politely speak your truth to these people. Let them know that you’d rather not continue to spend time with them if they are going to act out in such a manner.

What I mean by being quiet is to avoid jumping into "problem-solving" mode right away, as some people might rely on you to fix their issues every time, they face a challenge or feel down.

Of course, you can be there for them – listen attentively and then respond with something like, "I'm not sure what to say at the moment, but I'm really grateful that you reached out and shared this with me."

4. OFFER SUPPORT It's helpful to distinguish between fixing someone and providing support. Individuals who tend to drain others could genuinely be experiencing distress or facing a difficult situation. They may need assistance, but rather than trying to solve their problems for them, focus on offering support or suggest they talk to a therapist for more professional help.

5. LIMIT YOUR TIME

It’s one thing to be upset or sad and need a lending ear,

If you know someone who tends to incessantly drain

but it’s another to incessantly be complaining about

you when you’re around them, begin to limit your

things. Don’t be afraid to say, “Excuse me, this is real-

time with them. If you’ve talked to this person about

ly draining me. Let’s take a different approach to this

their negativity or their refusal to take responsibili-

issue.” You could also say: "I appreciate our conver-

ty for their emotions, you may have to lovingly de-

sation, but I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed at the mo-

tach. You don’t have to spend time with those who

ment. Can we take a break and revisit this topic later?"

constantly whine, complain, or drain you. Take some self-care tips and set your boundaries on who you let

3. LISTEN, DON’T SPEAK It’s wonderful to be empathetic. We should listen to those who have problems or are in pain. In fact, show-

into your personal circle.

TAKE A MENTAL BREAK

ing empathy is something the world needs more of.

The Lucia N°03 is a hypnagogic light that provides the

However, if you’re the type of person that is highly

opportunity to plunge into a great mental break and

sensitive and tends to want to help and heal everyone,

body rest.

Andrea Wagemaker • Shift Happens & Lucia Light • ShiftHypnotherapy.ca • 250-338-3401

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Issue 49 |

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

© Tetiana Soares

S TAY W E L L Refining Your Way Through Life DA NA © Luna Loiseau-Tremblay

M A H ON

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN writing a message, article or

Can you graciously invite the notion of Refinement

even a social media post, and before submitting it you

into your life? There are many examples of how this

save it for later? Do you come back to it repeatedly

might look.

over the next few hours or days to see if it requires editing or just a fresh set of eyes? How about when

•

about;

you’re cooking and you add that last crack of salt that makes everything pop and just come together? Or when you’re painting and you see where that perfect

•

allowing you to truly honor yourself;

•

the counter, stove, sink and faucet before rinsing and hanging up the cloth? These things feel so good, don’t they?! At the very least they conjure a feeling of completion, clarity, and almost like a distillation of sorts.

This is refinement in action—micro indicators that something is now clear, tight, polished, and that feels good! I did that very thing with this article!

As we move along in this new year, where and what might you consider refining? Where can you not only seek clarity, but then take the action and make the choices that will result in that clarity?

Where can you make small but powerful tweaks that will tidy up areas of your life that may have been carrying confusion, ambiguity, or a sense of being

Completing taxes or cleaning up financial loose ends;

Not a writer, cook or a painter? How about when you’re cleaning up after dinner and you do that final wipe of

A difficult conversation you may be avoiding but that when left unsaid is causing anxiety or isn’t

brush stroke needs to go, and how when you add it, the painting officially becomes complete.

A closet or crawl space purge you’ve been talking

•

The overdue car maintenance, or even dental or medical appointments.

Remember, refinement is not about perfection as much as it is a process, a cleaning up, a drilling down and a washing away of extraneous mental or physical clutter that can subtly or not-so-subtly interfere with something feeling complete or tidy.

As you move about your day-to-day life, including chores, examine where the opportunities for refinement lie. Not every aspect of our lives can feel clear, tight and polished all of the time, or all at once; but a few, even some of the time can certainly make a huge difference, so why not take an inventory, and then get to work!

unfinished?

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

Issue 49 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 3 1

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