GRAND Magazine Vol 7, Ed 2 by Island Parent Group

Walking Thru My Fires

Francis Dick

Jim Schneider Publisher publisher@islandparent.ca

Stacie Gaetz Editor editor@islandparent.ca

RaeLeigh Buchanan Account Manager raeleigh@islandparent.ca

Kristine Wickheim Account Manager kristine@islandparent.ca

Exploring Creativity

Local Creator Transforms Trauma into Beauty Walking Thru My Fires

• 39 years of creating

• Work in more than a dozen mediums

• Hundreds of pieces

• Art featured in galleries in Germany, Beijing, United Arab Emirates, USA and Canada

Despite these accomplishments, Francis Dick doesn’t see herself as an “artist.”

“I have a hard time with that word. I don’t feel like an artist,” says Dick from her downtown Victoria apartment.

“I didn’t set out to be an artist. My work is really about my experience and my journey of excavating my life and turning the fragmented parts of me into something beautiful and light.”

Dick was born in 1959 in Alert Bay, B.C. She is from the Musga’makw Dzawada’enuxw, or Four Tribes of Kingcome Inlet and was inspired to start painting after the death of her grandmother in 1985. She was so moved by her grandmother’s passing that she created an acrylic painting on paper.

Residential School Desk Project

“I needed to honour her in some way,” she says. “I created an image that represents the creation story because her telling it is one of my last memories of her.”

Dick was a social work student at the University of Victoria at the time, but her brother, Kwakwaka’waka Artist and Chief Beau Dick encouraged her to bring the painting to a local gallery. The gallery manager agreed to make it into prints for her and she walked up and down Government Street trying to sell it for $15.

“No one wanted to buy it back then and I often think, ‘Look at me now, suckers!’” she says with a laugh.

Pain on Canvas

Four months after the passing of her grandmother, Dick’s youngest brother committed suicide. She was once again moved to honour his life with art.

“The piece I made for him is an eye inside of an eye,” she says.

“One side is an eagle, and one side is a human. When you look at it full on, it looks like a face. The outside of the eye is stylized with tear drops and trees. I used the eagle to honour him because as we were lowering his casket into the ground, I saw an eagle overhead.”

She adds that the title of the piece Kalalilam translates into “Shaking Away the Tears.”

Dick creates in the traditional Indigenous Northwest Coast formline style. However, she adds her own flair with vibrant colours that seem to jump off the page. Her passion for her work took off when she spent three summers teaching language, dance and song in the secluded village of Kingcome Inlet and painted

pictures of the locations in the area that are included in the stories she was told as a kid.

“I wanted to bring the stories to life on paper,” she says.

“When something moves me, I process it through designing and painting.”

Walking Thru My Fires

One of her most famous pieces Walking Thru My Fires embodies this sentiment. The moving painting depicts a wolf—a symbol of Dick’s descendants of the Kawadelakala (Supernatural Wolf)—who in legend, shed his animal form to become the first of the Kingcome people.

She adds that she never studied art but growing up, she was surrounded by artistic elements like masks, songs, stories and designs on canvas.

That early exposure to art has translated into her desire to work in an array of mediums and “canvases.” Dick admits to “getting bored easily” and says she has worked in jewelry, wood carving and sandblasting. She has painted everything from guitars and drums to clothing and furniture. She also works with shadow boxes.

“I am affected by different mediums differently,” she adds.

As impactful as tangible art has been in her life, Dick says music is one of the “three tethers that keep me on the planet.”

She has created portraits of several local musicians including her favourite blues artist Deb Rhymer.

“She is the most beautiful and powerful woman I have ever met in my life. She’s my muse.”

The other pillars in Dick’s life include what she refers to as “trekking” and her work.

“I love to go hiking or walking,” she says.

“I have my loop that I do regularly and that is how I convene with the higher power of greatness.”

Legacy Art Gallery

Dick was featured in an exhibit at Legacy Art Gallery in Victoria from April 22 to September 9, 2023.

The Walking Thru My Fires exhibit explored Indian Residential School legacies, urban Indigeneity, reconciliation, and the healing power of art through Dick’s prints, paintings, carvings and music.

“It was incredible to see all of my work in one place,” says Dick of the exhibit.

“I walked in and thought, ‘Is this who I am?’ Every room in the gallery was about my work. Being honoured in that way was incredible. Emotionally, it

was hard to take in as my whole journey was laid out before me and it was never easy.”

Part of the exhibit was a collection of six school desks that Dick painted. As a Residential School survivor, she says she wanted to “turn something horrible into something beautiful.”

The desks had lights in them and were interactive with the music in the exhibit that included children’s items and clothing strewn about.

“You knew you were walking into a sacred space,” Dick said of the Residential School Desk Project.

“People walked out in tears. Seeing people’s response to what I do was powerful. I never felt so raised up in all my life. It’s about sharing a story that might help someone.”

She is currently working on several projects including painting Telecaster guitar bodies and creating wearable art. She plans to launch a website in

the coming months to make her art more accessible to all who want to own it.

When asked about her success, Dick says, “Am I successful? I guess so. How do you define success?”

“When I look back at it, I thought my life would look completely different,” she says.

“Funny how that happens...”

Humble words from an inspiring creator whose talent has no boundaries and artistry knows no bounds.

Stacie Gaetz

is the managing editor of GRAND. She runs on exploring new and exciting places and getting to the heart of people’s stories.

Photos courtesy of University of Victoria Legacy Art Galleries.

K’alalilam

Walking Thru My Fires

Upside Down Turning Negative Thinking

Negative thinking is that voice in our head that tells us that things won’t work out. It tells us that we will end up failing at something, or people just don’t like us. It is not an uncommon problem and can lead to a destructive spiral if not addressed.

As we get older, the habit of filling our thoughts with negativity can get worse. For example, if we are experiencing physical limitations, loss of loved ones and feelings of isolation and loneliness, our thoughts can easily turn to negativity.

One of the biggest pitfalls for many older adults is the habit of ruminating on the past, of failures, unattained goals or

personal/professional regrets. This tends to magnify the negative aspects of past events while minimizing the positive memories and successful events. Negative thoughts begin to “take on a life of their own” and colour our day-to day-lives. We lose the ability to feel enjoyment in our lives as we focus on our perceived regrets and shortcomings.

Constant worrying or negative thought patterns can easily lead to social anxiety, depression, stress and low self-esteem. Our day-to-day behaviours also begin to spiral into negativity. For example, if a person’s negative thoughts are telling them they are

not well liked in their social circle, they might feel awkward and stressed in those situations. The resulting behaviour might be to avoid talking to people or avoiding social situations, thus further establishing and reinforcing negative thought cycles. This only compounds feelings of loneliness and depression.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. The cycle of negative thinking can be interrupted using well-researched approaches that have been proven to make a difference. The following is a strong foundational strategy to do this:

1. Become an observer of your own thoughts

• Instead of allowing yourself to get pulled into negative thought patterns, think of yourself as a detective and try to objectively notice the negative pattern. Don’t immediately believe everything you think.

• Write them down. This is a very powerful tool as it forces you to be objective and can slow down the negative spiral. Once you have a collection of thoughts, is there a pattern to them? Do they tend to focus on the same negative theme? Is there a time of day or trigger that makes the thoughts tend to crop up?

2. Challenge the accuracy of the thoughts

• Become a litigator of your thoughts and patterns. This is a very powerful way to begin to break the pattern.

• Try and see all your thoughts as just what they are—thoughts and not facts. Ask yourself some questions such as “What concrete, indisputable evidence do I have that this is true?” or “Am I over generalizing how one experience applies to all?”

3. Practice mindfulness

Simply said, mindfulness is basically “living in the moment.” It does not include

multitasking or allowing thoughts to carry us away from what we are doing. Some easy ways to start:

• Try mindful walking outside. Focus your attention on what you are observing around you such as the colour of the leaves, the sound of the wind through the branches and the scents around you. If your thoughts begin to intrude on your walk, gently return your attention to the present experience of walking outside. This serves to reduce the power and frequency of negative thoughts.

• Find a quiet and comfortable place to focus on your breath for 10 minutes, once a day. Close your eyes, focus on each inhalation and exhalation. If thoughts begin to intrude, gently return your attention back to your breath. This daily habit, although brief, serves to interrupt the negative thought spiral.

Above all, practice self-compassion and be kind to yourself.

If you are interested in learning techniques to help you combat your negative thoughts, you might consider working with a counsellor who specializes in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness or Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).

The cycle of negative thinking can be interrupted using well-researched approaches that have been proven to make a difference.

George Bielay

is the Clinical Director of Waypoint Counselling Network and has been a clinical counsellor since 1991. George developed Waypoint Counselling Network with the goal of providing the public with professional and tailored support in being matched to the most appropriate counsellor based on their needs and experience. Learn more at waypointcounselling.ca

Explore the Joy of Giving Back with Habitat Victoria

With more free time comes a wealth of opportunities to do things you always wanted or always meant to get around to doing. Pursuing special interests, learning new skills or volunteering, for example. At Habitat for Humanity Victoria, you will find a community of like-minded folks who have chosen to do all that and make a lasting impact on their community at the same time.

Building Hope

Maybe you’re not ready to lay down the tools of your trade for good. Habitat Victoria offers you a chance to help build homes for local families who would not otherwise be able to afford to purchase them. You may even want to bond with your children and older grandchildren over the experience.

Perhaps you have keen DIY skills you would love to share with others who will really appreciate your knowledge of tinkering, repairing and repurposing. As a ReStore volunteer, you can help connect thrift shoppers with the right surplus building materials, gently used furniture and appliances for their needs.

Your passion for life, fun, helping people and building relationships might make you a great ambassador at Habitat Victoria’s seasonal fundraising events. But beware—making

friends and influencing people are common beneficial sideeffects of becoming invested in our mission.

Leaving a Legacy

Strong communities can find a way through every challenge, even the current housing affordability crisis. When a problem touches so many families to such devastating effect, there’s tremendous satisfaction to be found in being a part of the solution. Owning affordable homes of their own allows Habitat families to grow strong, grasp their dreams and make wonderful memories.

You can help keep the transformational power of home ownership within their reach by lending the charity your strength, at your own pace. And help uplift future generations by donating land or funds. Contributions to Habitat Victoria, no matter how small, do add up quickly.

It Feels Good!

Eating more vegetables and getting regular exercise are healthy, rewarding retirement goals. So is discovering purpose, connection, accomplishment and reward in what you do next. Start today. For more information or to donate, visit habitatvictoria.com and join us in building hope and homes for families in our community.

Drought-Proof & Delicious Water-Wise Edible Gardening

As summer approaches, and the heat intensifies, gardeners everywhere are reminded of the precious nature of water. With hotter summers and water restrictions more prevalent, growing a waterwise, drought-proof, edible garden not only conserves water, it also ensures you’ll have a bountiful harvest even through dry spells. This article will guide you through the essentials of growing a garden that is drought-proof, delicious and resilient.

Soil: The Foundation Beneath Us All

The soil is the foundation that feeds us, plants and people alike, and its health determines how drought-tolerant our soil will be. The more organic matter, the better it can retain moisture, so it is one of our fundamental goals to increase the life in our soil. If you do nothing else, start by adding compost to your soil. Compost not only adds organic material, but it also adds essential nutrients and inoculates

the soil with healthy microbes, improving soil structure, and allowing it to hold onto water longer.

Mulching is also magic for droughtproofing. Applying a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw (not hay, which is filled with seeds), woodchips or shredded leaves, helps to protect the soil and its life from the sun, keeping it cool and moist. Mulch also suppresses competition from weeds, and as it breaks down, it further enriches the soil, feeding its biology, including worms, which greatly enhance water percolation and retention.

Water: Wise Principles & Practices

It is essential to make every drop count, especially the rain that falls from the sky. We want this water to slow down, spread out and sink into the soil, rather than forming a stream and rushing away, taking with it organic matter and nutrients. Creating terraces, ponds, rain gardens and swales (shallow ditches on contour, that spread water out), are excellent forms of passive water harvesting systems that can help to conserve water, reduce erosion and maintain soil health.

Active forms of water harvesting include cisterns and rain barrels, which can significantly reduce reliance on external water sources. Greywater systems, which recycle household water from sinks, showers and laundry, are a cost-effective form of active water harvesting. For your first greywater system, we recommend starting with your laundry, biodegradable detergent and a three-way valve you can redirect into the municipal or sewage systems during the rainy winter.

For most gardeners, especially for those with summer droughts like on Vancouver Island, an irrigation system will still be necessary. Even drought-tolerant plants

require water for the first three years while they get established. Water deeper and less frequently, forcing roots to grow strong and deep.

When choosing an irrigation system, drip irrigation is highly recommended, as it ensures direct delivery of water to the soil, with minimized evaporation. Soaker hoses are a simple alternative. However, drip irrigation is superior in that it can work on a slope, and delivers consistent water from every emitter, whereas soaker hoses often pool in the low spots.

Water your plants when it is cool, ideally early in the morning or later in the evening, while following your local water regulations.

Plants: Picking Purposefully

Choosing plants appropriate to your climate and micro-climates is essential for drought-proofing. Trees, shrubs, vines and other perennials are generally the hardiest, as they have the most established roots. Most native species are drought tolerant, however, even native species are affected by our changing and unpredictable weather, so we recommend growing a diversity of plants, and never relying too much on one given crop. Our favourite drought-tolerant edible plants are listed below, with native plants marked with an asterisk.

• Fruits: fig, mulberry, red-flowering currant*, salal*, evergreen huckleberry*, serviceberry*, black raspberry (Rubus leucodermis)*

• Vegetables: beets, camas*, tomatoes, peppers, squash, zucchini, New Zealand spinach, nodding onion*, stinging nettle*, Swiss chard, kale, rhubarb, perennial kale, perennial chard.

• Herbs: rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano, lavender, fennel, marjoram, bay laurel,

Designing a Swale

savory, yarrow*, nodding nnion*, yerba buena*

Planning: How to Proceed

Consider planning your water systems before you plant or build raised beds. Irrigation, rain gardens, swales, ponds, storage tanks and greywater systems all require excavation, potentially disturbing plants. Do this work first and place these systems as high on the landscape as possible, let gravity help you distribute the water.

Next, focus on building healthy soil, increasing organic matter, and feeding the soil food web with compost and organic amendments recommended by your soil tests. The more mulch the merrier!

Finally, choose drought-tolerant plants, especially natives and perennials, and group them together according to water needs, which is known as hydrozoning. Program your irrigation system to water each zone accordingly.

A Drought-Proof & Delicious Future

Creating a water-wise edible landscape is not just possible, it is necessary and highly rewarding. By focusing on soil health, efficient water use, drought-tolerant plants and effective design, we can cultivate beautiful and bountiful gardens that will thrive in even the driest conditions, helping to ensure a fruitful future for generations to come.

and Edible Landscapes Design are a team of passionate professionals serving homeowners, businesses, farms and DIYers to design, install and maintain landscapes that nourish, feed and regenerate.

Joshua Clae Wagler

Surface Runoff

Infiltration

Freshwater Lens

Sediment Filter

Flat & On Contour

Berm

Mulch & Vegetation

Paul Kearsley 2014

ElderDog Canada

helping seniors keep love in their home

My heart sank as I saw the Facebook post requiring an urgent new home for Trixie—a blind, arthritic, incontinent, white maltese. As a rehoming coordinator with ElderDog Canada, I knew that dogs with medical needs are often hard to place. But within a week there was a local senior who said this was just the sort of dog that she could give a loving home to.

The home visit went well, the references checked out and it was clear that Vickie, a sprightly 77-year-old senior, who needed a reason to get up every morning after losing her husband last year, thought that Trixie might be just the answer. Fast forward another month and the trial adoption period has been completed successfully and Vickie and Trixie are a common sighting in the communal gardens of the condo complex where they live in Victoria. Vickie says she is happier than she has been in months!

Supporting Seniors

Finding suitable homes for dogs whose senior owners have passed or are unable to look after them is only a small part of what ElderDog offers. ElderDog is dedicated to aging dogs, aging people and the important connection they enjoy. ElderDog helps “keep love in the home” by supporting seniors with dog care needs such as walking their dogs and helping with transportation to vets and groomers. If a senior has a hospital stay, then a short-term foster home can be found.

ElderDog Canada is a national charity founded by Ardra Cole in Nova Scotia in 2009, which now has 34 “pawds” across the country. Pawds are the local chapters of ElderDog and there are three in Victoria: Victoria, Sooke-Westshore and the new, soon-to-be-launched Saanich to Sidney pawd. Cowichan, Nanaimo and the Comox Valley also have local pawds.

Volunteers

ElderDog is made up entirely of volunteers and there is no charge to seniors who use our services. Walking dogs is a big part of what Elderdog volunteers do. Walkers can walk one dog, once a week or several dogs, several times a week. Their choice!

It is flexible and there is something for everyone. Some volunteers appreciate being able to get their dog fix when they can’t commit to dog ownership because of where they live, the cost or frequent travel. Other volunteers have their own dogs and are passionate about the benefits of dog ownership for seniors and want to help foster that.

As one Comox Valley volunteer said, “We don't have a pet of our own so we love to be able to get our dog fix. As an added benefit we also get to meet some lovely seniors in our community. Clients are so appreciative of the ElderDog volunteers as it allows them to keep their furry friends with them as long as possible.”

Volunteers need to be over 18 and undergo a Police Information Check for Vulnerable Sector, which is free.

ElderDog is always looking out for more volunteers to help with elders and their animals. Volunteering with ElderDog is a great way to meet new people and their dogs while giving back to the community.

If you are interested in volunteering, ElderDog is hosting Pet-a-Palooza in Bullen Park, Esquimalt on August 10 between 10am and 4pm where there will be dogthemed stalls and activities.

Learn more at elderdog.ca

Kirsten Cannatella

is semi-retired and living in Sooke with a husband, grown-up daughter, a springy Welsh Springer Spaniel named Finn and a rescue cat named Bayou. When not working or doing nosework with Finn, she volunteers for ElderDog as well as a variety of health and nature organizations.

Preventing Caregiver Burnout and Strategies to Promote Well-being

Caregiver burnout arises from the demanding nature of caring for a family member or friend, leading to significant physical and emotional exhaustion. The relentless cycle of caregiving without adequate self-care can result in profound depletion. Caregivers who prioritize their loved ones’ needs over their own may experience feelings of irritability, overwhelming exhaustion, deep-seated resentment and constant anxiety. These emotions can take a toll on their mental and physical health, compromising their ability to provide compassionate and effective care.

Recognize Burnout Warning Signs

Recognizing caregiver burnout is essential for maintaining both the caregiver’s well-being as well as the quality of care provided. Signs include anger and impatience towards the care recipient, denial about personal impacts, social withdrawal, emotional instability, chronic exhaustion, difficulty concentrating, increased illness susceptibility and emotional breakdowns. Early recognition of these signs empowers caregivers to prioritize self-care and seek support, thereby preventing burnout and ensuring sustained effective caregiving.

Address Feelings of Guilt

Many caregivers struggle with guilt when focusing on their own needs. It’s important to acknowledge that caregivers deserve to prioritize their well-being. Seeking support from peers or counsellors can help process and alleviate feelings of guilt. Recognize that self-care not only benefits oneself but also enhances one’s ability to care for others effectively.

Set Realistic Expectations

Accept that while you can provide a certain level of care, you cannot manage everything alone. Knowing when to ask for

help and being open to sharing caregiving responsibilities can lighten the load, reduce stress and ensure sustainable care for both you and your recipient.

Promote Personal Self-Care and Well-being

Self-care is essential for preventing burnout. Practice selfcompassion by engaging in regular exercise, eating healthily, getting enough sleep, carving out quiet time, pursuing enjoyable activities, connecting with others, expressing feelings and seeking help when needed.

Explore Fulfillment Strategies

Engaging in activities beyond caregiving, such as hobbies or social interactions, is vital for relaxation and maintaining a balanced life. These activities rejuvenate caregivers and contribute to their overall well-being.

Have Compassion for Yourself as a Caregiver

Self-care involves understanding and nurturing your emotions and needs. Being kind to oneself and engaging in activities that promote well-being, like walks or rest, helps maintain emotional resilience. By prioritizing self-compassion, caregivers sustain their ability to provide effective care while staying grounded.

Prioritizing self-care and recognizing early signs of burnout enable caregivers to sustain their well-being and provide effective support to their loved ones. For additional resources and support, visit the Family Caregivers of BC Caregiver Resource Centre at familycaregiversbc.ca or contact the BC Caregiver Support Line at 1-877-520-3267. Strengthen your resilience, acquire new skills, and find the support you need—we are here to help.

A family or friend caregiver is someone who provides care and support to a person living with illness, disability, or aging frailty. Caregiving is rewarding but also emotionally and physically demanding, often causing stress, burnout, and isolation. Caregivers juggle financial constraints, work-life balance, and navigating complex healthcare systems. One in four Canadians are family caregivers.

Family Caregivers of BC is a provincial non-profit organization dedicated to supporting over one million caregivers in British Columbia who care for family members, friends, or neighbours. We provide leadership to strengthen the voice of family caregivers and the significance of their role.

Award-Winning Restaurant in Victoria Named Best in Canada

Victoria’s Marilena Café and Raw Bar was recently named the Best New Restaurant in all of Canada.

Voted on by a panel of food critics, chefs, restaurateurs, discerning diners and industry insiders from across the country, Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants Magazine revealed its extensive compilation of top dining destinations for 2024 in May.

You may recognize the names of a few of the other restaurants the team behind Marilena has launched. Blue Water Cafe, Elisa, CinCin, Whistler’s Araxi, Il Caminetto and Bar Oso, as well as New York City’s Oceans and Carlotto. Toptable Group does not disappoint with this addition to their portfolio that opened last year.

Judges evaluated restaurants based on the entire dining experience including service, décor, the depth of the cellar and food quality.

The menu at Marilena emphasizes seafood, a Japanese-inspired raw bar, cocktails and a 42-page wine program, with Executive Chef Kristian Eligh at the helm.

“…it’s culinary ambition that makes this place interesting. The goal was to give coastal Victoria the grand, modern seafood restaurant it’s theoretically entitled to,” reads the Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants Magazine review.

“Their combined menus are vast, but not at the expense of detail… Service is slick and the wine cellar as ambitious as the rest of the program.”

Hometown Chef

An avid free diver and fisherman, Eligh returns to his hometown with a menu that draws inspiration from memorable West Coast cuisine with an emphasis on local and globally sourced seafood.

Prior to Marilena, he held positions in world-renowned Michelin-star restaurants like Jean George in New York City, The French Laundry in Napa and Blackbird in Chicago. Most recently, Eligh spent six years as Culinary Director for Vancouverbased Hawksworth Restaurant Group, leading the Nightingale and Hawksworth teams respectively, achieving accolades such as Vancouver Magazine’s Chef of the Year in 2011 and 2012.

According to the Marilena website, inspired by local offerings, Eligh’s approachable dishes celebrate global flavours accented by seasonal ingredients, creating

YOUR SUPPORT EMPOWERS US TO

Reduce Isolation

With a social phone call, a friendly visit at home, or a stroll through the community, we are here to bring the community together.

Support Independence

Help from a volunteer with medical drives, document assistance, basic household repairs, or meal delivery helps make independent living more accessible for residents of Oak Bay.

Increase Connections

We connect neighbour to neighbour through more than 7,200 hours of direct volunteer services annually.

an unforgettable dining experience for guests.

“Chef Kristian looks forward to delivering a hospitality experience that speaks to the Victoria community and to be able to contribute to the growing dining scene on Vancouver Island.”

The Experience

The restaurant was also ranked number 27 for Canada’s best restaurants on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants List, making it the only Victoria restaurant to make the list.

Marilena features local and global seafood paired with high-quality sustainable ingredients that adhere to the highest standards. Guests can choose from a selection of nigiri, sashimi and sushi rolls at the impressive Japanese raw bar.

Marilena’s expansive wine list celebrates far-reaching varietals from notable regions while also honouring the Island’s premier wineries.

The 27-page collection of premium vodka, gin, tequila, mezcal, rum, whiskey,

brandy, cognac and aperitifs was meticulously curated by mixologist Jayce Kadyschuk.

The next time you are looking for a date night spot or want to treat a visiting friend to the best Vancouver Island has to offer, consider making a reservation at Marilena Café and Raw Bar.

Learn more at marilenacafe.com.

Top 10 Best Restaurants in Canada:

1. Marliena Cafe and Raw Bar

2. Casa Paco (Toronto, ON)

3. Sushi Yugen (Toronto, ON)

4. Bar Prima (Toronto, ON)

5. Sabayon (Montreal, QC)

6. Casavant (Montreal, QC)

7. Espace Old Mill (Stanbridge, QC)

8. Buvette Daphnée (Ottawa, ON)

9. Parapluie (Montreal, QC)

10. Magari by Oca (Vancouver, BC)

Stacie Gaetz

Make a one time donation today or become a Helping Heart Monthly Donor via Canada Helps

Consider us in your legacy planning through The Victoria Foundation

Our services are available to anyone who lives within the municipality of Oak Bay.

Help us spread the word about the work we do, so that no neighbour is left behind..

OBVS would not be possible without the ongoing support and commitment from our incredible community of volunteers. Reach out today to learn how you too can become a part of our volunteer team!

A community of Helping Hands ”

Executive Chef Kristian Eligh

WRadiance Embracing at Any Age

hat changes when we reach midlife? Everything and nothing. As we get better with age, our skin undergoes transformations and focusing on managing optimal skin health, rather than a “quick fix” approach, becomes a helpful mindset to adopt.

What Does More Experienced Skin Need?

Mature skin craves extra hydration, a strong barrier to shield against environmental stressors and ingredients that promote collagen and elasticity. Seventy to 80 percent of our skin is made up of collagen so as we age, it is important to introduce products rich in antioxidants, Vitamin A (retinol), AHAs (glycolic/lactic acid) and peptides to replenish moisture, neutralize free radicals and support skin firmness.

Apply a mineral SPF 30+ Year-Round

“The best sunscreen for you is the one you will apply every day.”

It is crucial at any age to protect against UVA and UVB Rays:

• UVA Rays: Penetrate deeply, affecting collagen and elastin in the dermis (middle layer) of the skin. Present all year-round and go through glass and windows.

• UVB Rays: Immediate impact on the skin's surface, causing sunburns and contributing to skin cancer risk.

Protecting your skin with an SPF reduces your risk of skin cancer, supports collagen and elastin and helps to prevent photoaging. Photoaging is the process in which UV exposure leads to age spots and uneven skin tone.

Simplifying Your Skincare

Why is it essential to change and adapt your skincare products as you get better with age? Just as our bod-

ies evolve, so does our skin. Some of the top skin concerns of women include dryness, uneven skin tone, sun damage, fine lines, redness, sensitivity and thinning skin. Simplifying your skincare routine and strategically targeting hydrating and nourishing ingredients become paramount for replenishing and maintaining the skin’s vitality.

Skin Tip

Circulation tends to slow down with age. Try and incorporate a nightly routine where you position your head upside down off the side of the bed. This technique aims to enhance blood flow to the face, promoting increased oxygen supply and delivering fresh blood and nutrients to your skin cells. The immediate result is a revitalized complexion, but keep in mind that this technique is not for someone with rosacea, redness or weakened capillaries.

Sample Skincare Routine

Age: 55

Skin Type: Dry, Sensitive

Top Skin Concern: Sun damage/Uneven skin tone and Dryness

Morning

1. Gentle Gel Cleanser—wash off with warm, not hot, water.

2. Apply Vitamin C serum—allow it to absorb for two minutes.

3. Mist Dewy Moisture Mist.

4. Apply Moisturizing Face Cream to damp skin.

5. Apply Mineral SPF 30+—year-round and don't forget the neck.

Night

1. Double Cleanse with Gentle Gel Cleanser.

2. Apply Radiance Brightening Serum—allow to absorb.

3. Mist Dewy Moisture Mist.

4. Apply Moisturizing Face Cream to damp skin.

5. Mist Dewy Moisture Mist.

6. Apply Luminous Facial Oil—pat into the skin

with a charitable estate donation in your will. Your gift provides amputees, including veterans and children, with essential programs that make a lasting difference in their lives.

This article was provided by Glow Jar Beauty, a company that celebrates the beauty of every woman, of every age. Rejecting the toxic culture of anti-aging, which disproportionately targets women over 40, Glow Jar strives to broaden age representation, fostering an inclusive environment that uplifts and supports women at every stage of life.

Community Theatres Across Vancouver Island All the World’s a Stage!

Whether you want to be entertained by taking in a show or are considering becoming involved in a production, there are a number of local theatre groups on Vancouver Island.

Participating in theatre can enhance personal growth, social skills and overall well-being. You’ll learn the true value of teamwork, practice self-expression and give back to your community. It’s also a great way to network with people who have similar interests.

If the spotlight isn’t the place for you, there are plenty of ways to participate in local theatre that don’t require you to take the stage. Theatre groups need more than just actors and an audience to put on a successful show. They need stage managers, people to handle lighting and music, stagehands and people to run the box office. Depending on the theatre, jobs can also include choreographers, costume designers, set designers, ushers and a marketing team to help with promotion. Don’t be afraid to ask what your local theatre needs and how your skill set can fill a void.

Ready to learn about some incredible theatres on Vancouver Island? Here are a few that have been putting on shows and engaging their communities for years.

Find one near you and pull up a seat, or consider adding your name to the list of people that make sure the show will go on!

1. Victoria on Stage (VOS)

This musical theatre society is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to bringing high-quality live musical theatre to Victoria. For over 76 years, locals have enjoyed performing and watching the many forms of talent cross their stage.

vostheatre.ca

2. Theatre SKAM

Active since 1995, Theatre SKAM brings innovative theatre to Victoria through their shows and festivals.

They also offer a popular performing arts school to help kids and youth become involved in local theatre.

skam.ca

3. Belfry Theatre

The Belfry Theatre has been producing plays since 1976 and has grown to be one of the most popular local theatres in Victoria—often selling out their shows quickly! The Belfry not only hosts local plays, they also welcome innovative and alternative work from across Cana -

da. A few of the Belfry’s 250 volunteers have been volunteering since its inception! belfry.bc.ca

4. Langham Court Theatre

For over 90 years, the Langham Court Theatre has been producing engaging and high-quality theatre in Victoria. They offer six productions a year that are a mix of traditional and modern works. They have youth volunteer positions available as well as a variety of workshops.

langhamtheatre.ca

5. Chemainus Theatre Festival

With its 30th season starting this year, the Chemainus Theatre Festival puts on great productions that often draw people from all over the island! They are known for their incredible “dinner and theatre” offerings.

chemainustheatrefestival.ca

6. Theatre One

Theatre One has been entertaining and educating the city of Nanaimo for over 40 years by developing and producing Canadian plays. With programs for kids as well as adults, they welcome volunteers and rely on your support. theatreone.ca

7. Courtenay Little Theatre

The Courtenay Little Theatre loves to produce local plays and even asks for input and scripts from the community. For over 60 years, they have been an active member of the local theatre scene and give back to the community in many ways. courtenaylittletheatre.com

8. Tidemark Theatre

The Tidemark Theatre is that recognizable bright pink building located in downtown Campbell River. Operating as a community theatre

since 1987, the Tidemark showcases local performing groups, as well as hosts travelling productions from across Canada.

tidemarktheatre.com

9. River City Players

Since 1960, the River City Players Society has been putting on accessible and intimate community theatre in Cambell River. They offer workshops and shadowing for anyone who is interested in being involved in the productions.

rivercityplayers.ca

10. Portal Players Dramatic Society

The Portal Players Dramatic Society are the main users of the Capital Theatre in Port Alberni and operate an annual season of three to four productions. They also offer various workshops and even some improv nights.

atthecapitol.org

There you have it! No more waiting in the wings—check out one of our 10 community theatres where you can take in a show, take the stage or help make the magic happen behind the scenes.

Erika Palmer

is a writer living in Victoria with her husband and daughter. She believes most problems can be solved with a good cup of tea and a huge piece of chocolate.

Spacation The Ultimate Getaway

What’s better than a vacation— a “spacation!”

You don’t need to go far to leave your stress behind you. As a tourist destination, Vancouver Island has an abundance of luxury hotels, many of which house awardwinning spas.

Whether you need a day away to be pampered, or you’re looking to take the ultimate weekend with a loved one or a group of friends, here is a selection of hotel spas on Vancouver Island for you to enjoy this summer.

1. Oak Bay Beach Hotel & Spa

The Oak Bay Beach Hotel & Spa in Victoria is an elegant retreat where luxury meets coastal charm. Their renowned oceanfront spa offers a range of indulgent face and body treatments, all designed to pamper and rejuvenate. After your treatment, unwind in the hotel’s seaside mineral pools, jacuzzis and eucalyptus-infused sauna, where panoramic views of the Salish Sea provide a serene backdrop for relaxation.

oakbaybeachhotel.com

2. Magnolia Hotel & Spa

Located in the core of downtown Victoria, the Magnolia Hotel & Spa has been rated Victoria’s top boutique hotel. Tucked away beside their elegant lobby is their luxurious spa, which offers an integrated holistic approach to health. Using allnatural products, their curated selection of face and body treatments along with their relaxation lounge ensure you will be leaving there rested and rejuvenated. magnoliahotel.com

3. Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa

Overlooking the beautiful Saanich Inlet, the Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa offers a tranquil space to rest and relax, just 30 minutes outside of Victoria. Experience ultimate pampering with your personalized body and/or face treatment and allow yourself to be guided to relaxation. Spa and

hotel guests are free to enjoy the heated pools, jacuzzi and serene garden. brentwoodbayresort.com

4. Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort

This rustic meets luxurious spa resort is located right on the beach mid-island in Parksville. The Grotto spa has recently undergone renovation and now offers cedar barrel saunas in addition to the mineral pool, whirlpool and cascading waterfalls. Enhance your relaxation with one of their body and facial treatments. Make sure you leave time to dine in your robe and slippers while overlooking the surrounding forest at the Treetop Tapas & Grill on site. tigh-na-mara.com

Oak Bay Beach Hotel

Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa

5. The Wickaninnish Inn & Ancient Cedars Spa

Located between the ancient rainforest and the sea, The Wickaninnish Inn & Ancient Cedars Spa is located in Vancouver Island’s west coast gem of Tofino. The serene treatment areas offer tranquil views of both the forest and the ocean while you receive customized treatments to restore a healthy mind, body and spirit. Before or after your treatment, participate in a yoga class, visit the steam cave or relax on the oceanfront patio.

wickinn.com

6. Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa

Nestled along the shores of Comox Harbour in Courtenay, the Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa takes inspiration from nature to offer guests an experience they will not soon forget. Their unique

standout feature is the hour-long Pacific Mist Hydropath, a water therapy journey to relax the body and mind. Add other feature spa treatments such as a facial or pedicure to enhance your pampering even more. All hotel and spa guests are welcome to enjoy the outdoor heated pool, hot tub, infrared sauna and steam cave. kingfisherresort.ca

7. Poets Cove Resort & Spa

Just a short boat ride from Victoria, Poets Cove Resort & Spa is a premier luxury boutique hotel located on Pender Island. Enjoy the Arts & Crafts style architecture of the resort, fine dining and picturesque walking trails before heading to the Healing Spa. Pick out one of the incredible treatments for your face and body, then venture into the Eucalyptus Steam Cave and hot tub to reawaken your senses. poetscove.com

8. Hastings House Country House Hotel & Spa

Enjoy the enchanting charm and casual elegance of the Hastings House Country House Hotel & Spa, located on Salt Spring Island—just a short boat ride away from Vancouver Island. Natural beauty abounds at this serene country hotel to provide you with a tranquil experience. Visit the spa in the cedar-clad barn nestled in the gardens to continue your relaxation with a variety of customized massage, body and facial treatment options.

hastingshouse.com

Hastings House Country House Hotel & Spa

Wickaninnish Inn & Ancient Cedars Spa

Top Places to Picnic on Vancouver Island

Nothing beats a good picnic—your favourite foods eaten outside surrounded by gorgeous views, chirping birds and quality connections with the people you love.

Whether you are looking for a view of the ocean, to be engulfed in a forest or nestled in a meadow blooming flowers, there is a place for you to park your picnic basket on Vancouver Island.

Don’t forget your picnic necessities:

• Blanket

• Garbage bag

• Sunscreen and sunglasses

• Towels (if it’s a beach picnic)

• Supplies—of course the food you pack is the star of the show, but you don’t want to be caught without utensils, napkins, cups, etc

• A great book!

Greater Victoria

Holland Point Park: The breakwater offers stunning views and refreshing saltwater mist. Watch the sailboats and enjoy some great food or a good book.

Gowlland Tod Provincial Park: This is your place for a magnificent view of the water. There are also more than 25kms of trail to hike, from Goldstream to Brentwood Bay, with scenic viewpoints dotted throughout and plenty of wildflowers along the way.

Gonzales Beach: If you visit this beach with shallow water and gorgeous water-front homes, don’t forget to bring your camera!

Sidney

Lochside Waterfront Park: Pull up a log or lay down a blanket and watch the boats skim

along the water. You may even spot the dorsal fin of an orca or see a friendly seal.

Robert’s Bay: The bay is surrounded by residential homes yet the waters and shoreline are a terrific place to observe migratory and resident birds and wildlife. Don’t forget your binoculars and keep any eye out for sea otters.

Gonzales Beach: If you visit this beach with shallow water and gorgeous water-front homes, don’t forget to bring your camera!

Cowichan Valley

Cherry Point: Located in Cobble Hill, Cherry Point Nature Park is an ocean waterfront park with stunning views across the channel to Separation Point and Saltspring Island. This beach is teeming with life and offers many nature viewing opportunities.

Bright Angel Park.

Photo: Cowichan Valley Regional District

Bright Angel Park: Experience the subtle rumble of the Koksilah River and the surrounding woods that lend some shade on a warm day. Once you’ve finished picnicking, pack up and check out another feature of the park—the suspension bridge!

Bamberton Provincial Park: A scenic spot to sit down for a bite to eat with friends and family. The Bamberton beach offers plenty of seating making it easy to find a table or bench to enjoy the picturesque view of the Saanich Inlet.

Nanaimo

Neck Point Park: Visitors will find rugged rock cliffs, with pebble bay beaches, and winding trails through Garry Oak groves. The park is a great location for photographers wanting to capture the essence of Nanaimo and the west coast lifestyle.

Beach Estates Park: The ravine is not to be missed! There are huge big-leaf maple trees and tall conifers leaning out, or fallen across Northfield Creek, as well as a waterfall. There are boardwalks and stairs, adding to the woodsy atmosphere.

Moorecroft Regional Park: The previous site of “Camp Moorecroft,” this park is a beautiful example of the seaside ecosystem common to

the area. There are gentle walking trails through an impressive forest, leading to a protected bay that’s great for swimming.

Parksville & Qualicum Beach

Qualicum Beach—East Beach: When it comes to picturesque West Coast beaches, Qualicum Beach might be the best of the bunch. The beautiful views of the Coast Mountains on the mainland are unbelievable and make this the perfect place to spend a day.

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park: Impressive waterfalls cascade down a rocky gorge in a beautiful forest setting bordered by steep mountain peaks, making this one of the area’s most beautiful parks.

Smuggler Cove Marine Provincial Park: Smuggler Cove is a small, picturesque allweather anchorage on the south side of Sechelt Peninsula near Secret Cove. To access this park by land, visitors can hike 4km from a parking lot off Hwy 101.

Comox Valley

Kyle Bay Beach: Kyle Bay offers beautiful sandy beaches and many shallow tidal pools. If you plan it just right, the water is incredibly warm as it passes over the hot sand. It’s the

perfect place to enjoy a picnic and spend the day at the beach.

Goose Spit Park: This is the best picnic place for the bird lover in your group! The oddly named park offers excellent views to the south, east and west. On the inside is a sheltered lagoon that provides food and habitat for many migratory and resident waterfowl, and is home to a number of beautiful plants and interesting animals.

Lewis Park: Spread out under the shade of one of the park’s gigantic trees, bring a lunch or order take out, and enjoy it on one of the many picnic tables overlooking the river. On a hot sunny day, you may feel tempted to take a dip in the cool, refreshing water, go the extra mile by renting a kayak or paddle board to explore the Courtenay River and estuary.

*Editor’s note: These descriptions use information gathered from tourismcowichan.com, nanaimo.ca, nanaimoinformation.com, experiencecomoxvalley.ca and bcparks.ca

Stacie Gaetz

Bamberton Park. Photo: BC Parks

AI and Our Grandchildren: Embracing the Future Life in the Era

of Artificial Intelligence

Transformative Education

AI presents incredible opportunities for children’s futures, and Code Ninjas is at the forefront of harnessing this technology to empower young minds.

“AI offers far reaching opportunities for our kids,” says Jesse Bowness, owner of Code Ninjas, former tech industry executive and local parent. Since 2021, Code Ninjas has instructed over 45,000 coding sessions, inspiring local youth to embrace the limitless possibilities of AI and coding.

Why AI and Coding Matter

AI is already a part of our daily lives, assisting with everything from creating grocery lists to developing new software.

While AI can generate basic code, it still requires human creativity and problem-solving to refine and innovate. By leveraging AI, we can shift focus from teaching basic coding skills to fostering critical thinking and creativity—skills essential for tomorrow’s job market.

“By embracing AI, we can spend less time on basics and more on nurturing creativity,” Bowness explains. “Coding teaches kids invaluable life skills such as problem-solving and approaching challenges from different angles.” These skills are crucial as AI becomes an integral part of our world.

The Future of Coding and AI

The demand for programmers who can enhance and maintain AI models is rapidly increasing.

Understanding the code behind our technology is essential for leveraging AI’s full potential. “To inspire the next generation of innovators, we must continue teaching coding,” says Bowness. “By doing so, we prepare our children for a future where technology and creativity go hand in hand.”

Take Action Now: Free Coding Session

Give your grandchild a head start by enrolling them in a free coding session at Code Ninjas. It’s an opportunity for them to explore the exciting world of coding and AI, and join hundreds of kids in the CREATE Coding Program. The super fun curriculum, comprehensive instruction and program flexibility offer a learning path for beginners to experts.

Visit soon to meet and talk to some of the grandparents and parents who are gifting their children a bright future in the Era of Artificial Intelligence.

Register Today!

• Visit: CodeNinjas.com

• Email: westshorebcca@codeninjas.com

• Call: 778-265-2633

• Location: 890 Goldstream Ave, Langford

• Follow us on Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Summer Camps Available

Our summer camp programs still have limited spots available! Running until the end of August, camps are available from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. or 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Book two half-day camps for a full-day program, with supervised outdoor playtime from 11:30am to 12:30pm. Don’t miss this opportunity! Find a full list of available summer camps and register online here. Prepare your child for a future filled with innovation and creativity.