VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS EDUCATION FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
New home opens for classes April 10, 2021.
FROM OUR TO YOURS
"When you're safe at home you wish you were having an adventure; when you're having an adventure you wish you were safe at home." – Thorton Wilder
I think back to just over a year ago. Our family was like ships passing in the night. "Divide and Conquer" was our motto, taxiing kids to hockey practices, indoor baseball clinics, school events, and more. We were lucky if we had a couple of family dinners each week. And then CoVid hit.
At first, it was quiet and peaceful with lots of good time together: family dinners, movie nights and game time. Remote learning sent us into a tailspin trying to set up Zoom at home and keep the kids engaged and learning. Teachers were left scrambling to set up home offices and virtual connections.
Summer was a fantastic reprieve. The weather warmed up, and we all went outside to hit the parks and beaches. We rented and bought RV's at a furious pace, and went camping, hiking and biking all around our great province. What a fabulous way to explore our own backyard and things almost felt "normal" for a while.
Fall brought us back to school, and Winter brought us back indoors. It's been a hard few months as the virus caught up again and forced new restrictions over the holidays. We missed loved ones and traditions, we rang in the New Year at home, and we definitely missed the sunny vacations. Sports games, performances, and tournaments were shut down again and kids practiced over and over to stay engaged with their passions.
Here we are now in Spring 2021. The weather is improving and we're all looking forward to Summer and seeing friends again in the fresh air.
It's ironic that when we were all so busy we were wishing to be home more, and now that we're restricted, we are wanting the freedom to be out again. Partly it's wanting what you can't have, but maybe it's more about finding the balance where we enjoy our peace and quiet at home, but also have time with the people and places we love without overcommitting.
In our house, we've realized that we really like some weekend time at home, on our own, without making plans. We like having more family dinners at home, even if it's not fancy or it's ordered in. We also miss our friends and family and are looking forward to being together again with people that bring meaning and happiness into our lives. It feels good to have some quiet scheduled in and give ourselves room to breathe.
We've also realized we really miss travelling and exploring. We've found some amazing places within our communities and our province, but we are really looking forward to getting on an airplane again and exploring new places and cultures abroad.
If nothing else, this time has given us space to reflect and pivot, and we're grateful for that.
This is our first issue back to print in almost a YEAR! wow, how that time has flown by. We're thrilled to bring you a mix of new information, great local resources, and fun ideas to explore for Spring. Read in print and online too.
Happy Spring!
Andrea Vance, Publisher
Publisher & Managing Editor Andrea Vance editor@westcoastfamilies.com
Editor Bianca Bujan bianca@westcoastfamilies.com
Contributing Editor Jodi Iverson jodi@westcoastfamilies.com
Art Director & Layout Kristy Hill studio@westcoastfamilies.com
Accounts Receivable & Payable finance@westcoastfamilies.com
Advertising sales@westcoastfamilies.com 604 249 2866
Contributors Claire Newell
Alyssa Bauman
Ariane Fleischmann
Jaydeen Williams
Andrea Vance
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All contents copyrighted © Written permission from the publisher is required to reproduce, quote, reprint or copy any material from WestCoast Families
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Y o u t h R o o t s
f t e r s c h o o l P r o g r a m
Shake things up with some outdoor activity after school this Spring
Canoeing, rock climbing, kayaking, archery and much more! Tuesdays or Wednesdays from 4:006:00pm for 10 weeks, beginning April 20th. Visit sasamat org/afterschool-programs to register
Summer Road Trips!
Preparing for a Summer family road trip this year is easy if you plan ahead.
By: Claire Newell
Dreaming of a road trip later this summer? It’s going to require a lot more preparation than you’re used to. No more hitting the open road on a whim — you need to plan ahead.
Even with restrictions easing in most provinces, there are still some significant challenges travelers will face — from how they eat to where they can stop and rest along the way.
PLOT YOUR COURSE
If it’s a route you’ve covered before, consider which rest stops and gas stations are usually less crowded and plan to stop there. If it’s a new route, remember you want to minimize the number of places you visit and the people you come into contact with. Keep in mind, there might not always be a clean, well-ventilated washroom available; plus some small communities are isolating and visitors may not be welcome. Do your research.
FIND SAFE ACCOMMODATION
While many hotels are enacting stricter sanitization strategies, not every business has rolled out its plans for guests. Call ahead -- find out what measures the hotels and other lodging options at your destination are taking and book accordingly. As for vacation rentals, results will vary. AirBNB has updated requirements for hosts who take part in its enhanced cleaning initiative, which includes at least 24 hours between rentals. Camping sites and RV parks are a fairly safe option, if you can enforce physical distancing. For an even lower risk option — consider visiting family or doing a house swap with someone you know. Whatever you do — confirm before you leave.
STOCK UP
When it’s time to hit the road — stock up. Bring a picnic blanket and pack a cooler with enough food and water to get you from point a to point b — because you may find fewer restaurants open along the way.
Ensure you’ve got enough hand sanitizer and necessary cleaning supplies — not only to keep you clean but to disinfect the surfaces you’ll encounter along the way. And make sure you have enough non-medical masks or face coverings for everyone in the vehicle.
KEEP EVERYONE SAFE
Once you reach your destination — keep hygiene at the top of your mind. If you are at a hotel or vacation rental, as soon as you enter your room give the light switches, door handles, faucets, remote controls, and tabletops a wipe down with a disinfectant wipe or spray. If you’re at a hotel, display the ‘do not disturb’ sign and let housekeeping come in after your stay. If you can, eat in your room and avoid common areas like gyms and restaurants. And wash your hands as often as you can.
Even without the pressures of the pandemic, there can be plenty of hiccups on road trips. You really can’t be too prepared. Make sure you minimize your risks and contact with others — not only to protect yourself — but anyone you encounter along the way.
Preparing for a Summer road trip this year for your family is easy if you do a little planning ahead of time. And don't be afraid to reach out for help!
Claire Newell is an author, Mom, international travel expert, and owner of Travel Best Bets and Jubilee Travel.
VANCOUVER-BASED MEAL KIT COMPANY SERVING UP SUSTAINABILITY AND TASTY FAMILY MEALS
My son loves trying new things! When he finds something new and interesting, I hear about it constantly. So when he asked about meal kits after seeing an ad, we thought it was a great solution to family dinners and a week later we had one delivered. We were all excited, and that night we cooked up a storm.
The kids got the condiments and seasonings ready, Dad read out the recipe, and I started cooking. It was a fun and connecting experience with music on and everyone playing a part. After we finished our amazing dinner, though, we were surprised to find a counter filled with containers, baggies, and boxes.
The problem with meal kits, we soon realized, was what was leftover at the end: the packaging! As great as the experience was, the packaging was more than we bargained for and put us off meal prep delivery services.
Things have evolved in a big way over the past year, and families have even more demands on them than ever. We’re all looking for a little break and a lot of help. But our past experience with other meal kits had us hesitant to try again.
Bring us to 2021, and we discovered that Vancouver-based meal kit provider, Fresh Prep has provided a solution to the problem. Earlier this month, the meal kit delivery service brought a first-of-its-kind sustainable product to market, with the launch of its Zero Waste Kit.
The Fresh Prep Zero Waste Kit is a reusable meal kit container that significantly reduces waste from single-use plastic, and allows for an easier and more organized cooking experience. Delivered in Fresh Prep’s signature cooler bags, all parts of the Zero Waste Kit are made with BPAfree reusable plastic.
One of the many benefits of using the kit is that you receive preportioned ingredients in each compartment, resulting in no excess food waste. You’ll spend less time cutting open plastic as the kits are structured for grab-and-go cooking. And since the ingredient cups double up as measuring cups and mixing bowls, there’s instantly less of a mess for you to clean up afterwards.
Finally, a meal kit that is delicious, convenient AND sustainable! No cardboard boxes here, as deliveries are made in reusable, insulated cooler bags that are exchanged upon next delivery.
Today, families are much more aware of their footprint in the world: our cities have massive recycling programs, schools require zero-waste lunches, and we use reusable containers as much as possible. So it just
makes sense that Fresh Prep is providing convenience and enjoyment at mealtime together and helping us manage our waste too.
Using a service that helps in our busy lives really adds to our quality of life. Fresh Prep provides tasty menus each week that you can choose together as a family, which means the kids get involved in the planning too. When the meals arrive with pre-measured ingredients, it’s easy for everyone to participate in the cooking. It’s a great way for busy families to spend a little time together in the kitchen and around the dinner table!
Given the value, we’re amazed that Fresh Prep is one of the more affordable meal kit offerings having a lower price per serving and minimum order costs than competitors.
As a family, we still get the same locallysourced, high-quality ingredients and chefquality recipes that Fresh Prep is known for, at a great price and without the waste we don’t want.
As if there wasn’t already enough to love, there is more to Fresh Prep than just meal kits. They have also added quick meals, salads, kids meals and sides to your delivery options which make great lunches and snacks too. Over 75% of ingredients and Add-on items are supplied by local companies and suppliers, and the kits are also prepared and packaged locally, to deliver fresh and high quality ingredients to people across BC.
Plus, you can gift meals to a family or friend who needs a little extra help too. We’re hooked!
ZERO WASTE RECIPES ARE ON THE FRESH PREP WEBSITE NOW, AND ARE GRADUALLY ROLLING OUT ACROSS THE ENTIRE MENU. IF YOU HAVEN’T SIGNED UP YET, YOU CAN PREVIEW THE MENU AT WWW.FRESHPREP.CA/MENU/THIS-WEEK
FOOD TO WAKE YOU UP FOR SPRING
by Alyssa Bauman, www.Nourished.ca
Spring is in the air! After months of winter and indoor activities, we’re all ready to get outside more and enjoy the open spaces. Hiking, biking, and exploring this amazing west coast we call home.
Great adventures call for good nutrition, and with the sun and spring time we’re looking for refreshing ideas to quench our thirst and fill our cravings.
Here’s some ideas from Alyssa Bauman of www.nourished.ca to keep you going all Spring and into Summer!
SWEET BERRY FREEZE
THE NOURISHED PINA COLADA
Pineapple’s star-enzyme Bromelain aids in digestion and lowers inflammation, turmeric is the go-to anti-inflammatory root which also adds just a bit of bite while ginger’s zing and circulation boosting elements makes this spring time sipper my latest obsession. Come on Spring!
INGREDIENTS:
1 cups Frozen pineapple
1 tsp Organic coconut oil
1 cup Coconut water
DIRECTIONS:
1 inch Fresh ginger
1 inch Fresh turmeric
1/2 Lime peeled
Blend and enjoy. Top with a squeeze of lime.
What is sunshine without the popsicle? I mean really. And why buy them when they take 5 minutes to prep and you know exactly what’s in them and what you are eating. No filler, no chemicals, no preservatives. NO Fuss. I love these hydrating sweet treats especially when summer berries are in their prime. Watch the kids devour them. Sure, have a popsicle for breakfast, Why not?!
INGREDIENTS:
4 cups Organic strawberries
1/4 cups Fresh orange juice
1/4 cups Unsweetened coconut water or almond milk for a creamier
DIRECTIONS:
consistency
1/2 Juice from a lemon
2 tbsp Honey
1 cups Blueberries
1. Puree strawberries and blueberries with orange Juice, lemon juice and honey together until smooth.
2. Add coconut water or almond milk. Mix Pour into popsicle molds and freeze for 4 hours.
3. Run molds under hot water to remove. Enjoy!
Pictured: Sweet Berry Freeze
FLOURLESS BANANA MUFFINS
Yup, they are yummy. My girls love these sugar-and gluten-free muffins. We aren’t gluten free or sugar free in this house, but I do like to limit both. They are a great grab-and-go breakfast and snack and also a healthy nut free lunch box treat. Loaded in flavour, these fiber-rich muffins are also a great protein source.
INGREDIENTS:
4 Very ripe bananas
1 1/2 cups Oat flour
1/2 cups Unsweetened apple juice
1/2 cups Unsweetened apple sauce
1/2 cups Hemp seeds
2 tbsp Ground flax seeds
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 350ºF.
1 tsp Ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp Vanilla extract alcohol free
1/2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
1/2 tbsp Baking powder aluminum free
1/2 tsp Baking soda sodium free Dark chocolate chips (optional)
2. Line a muffin pan with 12 cupcake liners. Place in oat flour in large bowl and add all the other dry ingredients. Puree bananas in a food processor. Add the apple juice, applesauce and extract and process again until combined. Pour over dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not over mix.
3. Pour into muffin liners filling about 2/3 full. Bake for 20-22 minutes until tops are golden brown and toothpick comes out clean. Optional to add chocolate chips or cocoa nibs.
A to B is a nutrition methodology developed by certified holistic nutritionist, Alyssa Bauman Fascinated by how food effects the body, and the body’s marvelous ability to heal and care for itself when fueled properly, Alyssa is dedicated to helping people learn healthy nutrition habits that set them up for a lifetime of wellness
Kids and Summer Camp: they go together like peanut butter and jam! When your child gets to the age where you are exploring options for summer camp, it’s hard to know where to begin.
Camp is one of the best experiences your child can have. Making lifelong friends, trying new activities, and visiting new locations are just a few of the benefits that will help them learn and grow.
With wild action and pure fun, sun-soaked days, friends, and great food, Camp Qwanoes is a fantastic choice for Mainland and Island families,
QWANOES HAS MADE A WAY FOR MAINLANDERS TO ENJOY DAY CAMP TOO! THE MAINLAND EXPRESS IS RUNNING FOR SUMMER 2021. LEARN MORE AT WWW.QWANOES.CA
and they love kids! This camp is built from the ground up for kids to experience an unforgettable life-changing experience. We’ve dug in to find out more.
For Summer 2021, Camp Qwanoes is currently planning day camp experiences you have to see to believe. All the great activities, facilities, and leadership they are known for, each week all summer. Sign up for a whole week, or a couple of days.
FIVE REASONS YOUR CHILD SHOULD ATTEND CAMP QWANOES
1. Day Camps and The Mainland Express!
Qwanoes has opened the way for mainland campers. Even if overnight camps are still not permitted, the Mainland Express can get you there. Campers may sign up for one or two days for their age group. A camp leader will meet campers at the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal at 7am to supervise the group across the Strait of Georgia. Once they arrive in Nanaimo, a camp bus will pick them up for transport for a day of adventure at Camp Qwanoes. Campers will return the same way that evening.
If overnight camps become available, Camp Qwanoes will be ready for them. Campers booked in Mainland Express or a Day Camp will have first priority to change to an overnight camp.
2. Making Lifelong Friendships
Qwanoes is a fully-accredited member of the BC Camping Association and Christian Camping International-Canada. As a Christian camp, Qwanoes takes principles of the Bible and makes them relevant to everyday life.
Campers will arrive looking for fun will find even more - new-found friends, newly acquired skills, and a truly caring environment. The goal of Qwanoes is for children to have the greatest time of their life, that will change them forever. The uncomplicated life that is enjoyed at camp affords kids the time to develop lifelong friendships. Many campers return year after year and the friendships just keep building.
Qwanoes counsellors are trained to help campers develop social skills, facilitate friendships, and have a positive experience overall. An enhanced sense of belonging, accompanied by a feeling of welcome and social acceptance is only a small portion of the attributes experienced by campers.
3. Loads of Fun
Rain or shine, every day will be action-packed and friend-filled. More than 75 activities await all the guests that arrive at Camp Qwanoes: The Aqua Park, Airwalk Village, the Triple Biscuit, Screamer, archery outdoor laser tag. Plus many more options to choose from like Qwanoes Beach, Challenge Course and other land activities.
Enjoy the band in “Q-Town,” check out the Tuck Shop, Ice cream Island, and Shave Ice Palace. Hang out at Carpetball! Your child’s day will be filled with fun and discovery.
Get launched off a 35-foot Blob. Feel the rush with two other friends on the SkyScraper. Blast off with five others for a wild Rocket ride. Drop-in at the skatepark, cut loose on the Rockin' Roll, bike to the peak, bounce on a floating trampoline, snag some hoops or shoot a bulls-eye. Or maybe just soak in the sun and share time with new friends. Whether an expert or beginner, there’s something for you! The qualified staff will encourage your child and ensure their safety.
4. Amazing Leadership
Founded in 1966, Qwanoes places high importance on quality staff, and is committed to providing the best experience to their guests. They have an amazing team of staff ready to welcome your child and share an unforgettable summer experience.
For Summer 2021, Qwanoes is planning for two counsellors per group of 10 campers, plus staff dedicated to activities, All-Star Games, Q-Town, video creation, camp store operation, leadership, and a dedicated team making sure the camp is clean, safe, and that all COVID19 safety and hygiene standards are met and exceeded. Whew! Day Camps will be staffed by experienced Qwanoes leadership, providing a ratio of no less than one staff member for every two campers. Campers will be grouped together by age in a group, so parents can be comfortable knowing their child is well taken care of and enjoying every minute!
5. Fifty-five Acres of Adventure
Qwanoes is a youth-focused high adventure Christian residential camp situated on 55 acres of magnificent scenic waterfront property on Vancouver Island between Victoria and Nanaimo. This means water sports, beach time and a fantastic natural setting. Kids will feel instantly at home with amazing counsellors and fellow campers showing them around the buildings, open grounds, and forest settings. There are many multi-use buildings so rain isn’t a problem, and the outdoor space goes beyond the beach to include a soccer field, sport court, skate park, climbing wall, rope course, and more. For exploring, kids can check out the open field, forested area, and nature trails too.
Don’t just take our word for it! To learn more and watch an amazing highlight video of camp life at Qwanoes from 2020, go to www.qwanoes.ca
For the experience of a lifetime, check out Camp Qwanoes for Summer 2021!
1. SIGN UP EARLY
Options are a bit more limited for Summer 2021, so plan ahead. Many families will be making plans as soon as possible.
2. VIRTUAL CAMPS
Make sure you have read instructions in advance and downloaded any apps or software you may need.
3. MASK UP
Make sure your child is well equipped with extra masks and hand sanitizer. We all know how those can easily go missing throughout the day.
4. READ
Make sure you have reviewed all instructions thoroughly for transportation, drop off and pickup times, what to bring (and not to bring). There won’t be much flexibility so you don’t want to miss out.
5. ASK
What are the protocols in place at the camp to limit CoVid exposure and what procedures are in place in case of contact?
6. KNOW YOUR OPTIONS.
Are refunds available if camps are cancelled or changed? Check with the camp to see what their alternate plans are if CoVid restrictions change. Is there cancellation flexibility?
Revelstoke
Top6
by Andrea Vance
1. EAT
Rock Climbing with Flexpeditions
HIkingatRevelstokeMountainResort
3. HIKE
Revelstoke is known for its great downtown food scene. The historical streets are lined with great little cafes, cook shacks, and eateries. Not to mention the micro breweries and distilleries too. Stroll around and hit locations with great names like Chubby Funsters, The Village Idiot and the Nomad. For fantastic hand made pizza with amazing flavours, we loved Nico’s Pizzeria with its great vibe. For breakfast pastries and to-go lunches, try La Baquette but be prepared to wait in line a little. Totally worth it!
2. BIKE
Revelstoke is legendary for mountain biking. Easy to bike around town, even across the bridge, and at the nearby Revelstoke Mountain Provincial Park. Thanks to Revelstoke Cycling Association (RCA) and local avid cyclists and volunteers, Revelstoke enjoys vast biking trail systems suitable for all different levels. Check out Mount Macpherson's Griffith Creek area for beginner loops and skills park, or Frisby Ridge for a cross-country trek good for more intermediate riders. If you want extreme, Revelstoke has that too!
Take the gondola to the top of Revelstoke Mountain and start on the Stoke Trail to an amazing meadow in the summertime, filled with flowers. Perfect for that summer family photo! Be prepared with water and good shoes to make this trek, but it is worth it. The Greenbelt Trails can last from 30 minutes to a full day, with easy meandering trails through meadows and along rivers. Or take the Williamson’s Lake Trail to jump in the water on a hot day. Only 40 minutes round trip! And the Giant Cedars Boardwalk takes you through old growth forests on an wooden boardwalk in Mount Revelstoke National Park.
4. VISIT A BREWERY OR DISTILLERY
This small town boasts two fantastic distilleries and two microbreweries and they’re all worth a visit. Jones Distilling makes the award winning Revelstoke Gin that should definitely be on your list. Stop in their gorgeous distillery located in the old Mountain View school house on 3rd Street West. Mt Begbie and Rumpus Brewing will satisfy your thirst for lagers and ales, and Monashee Spirits makes a fantastic Ethos Gin you’ll want to take home.
5. RIDE and PLAY
Buy a “Play All Day” pass for Revelstoke Mountain and enjoy the aerial adventure, disc golf, gondola ride, and axe throwing. Best of all, it includes 2 rides on the Mountain Coaster, which is a must-do. Slide down the mountain in a cart on rails that reaches speeds of 42 km/h! It’s a good idea to get up early and hit the mountain right away to avoid lineups and waits. Once you’re there, get your number for the mountain coaster and lineup for the aerial adventure so you don’t miss out.
6. CLIMB
Revelstoke is a world-class climbing destination, and there is something for every age and every level. You can book a private guide for your family, to take you to a great spot, gear you up, and teach you how to climb a fabulous 20’ or 30’ wall. This is one activity that will challenge you and reward you. A fantastic adventure we highly recommend. www.flexpeditions.com/activities/rock-climbing/
WHERE TO STAY
The Mountain Coaster at Revelstoke Mountain Resort
by Andrea Vance
There are so many benefits to decluttering your space: reducing stress & anxiety, improving sleep, boosting productivity, discovering lost treasures, saving money, easier cleaning and
WHEN YOU DECLUTTER YOUR HOME, BENEFITS INCLUDE:
Reduce Stress and Anxiety; Improve Your Sleep; Boost Productivity and Creativity; Discover Lost Treasures; Rid the Home of Allergens; Save Money; Easier to Clean and Tidy; Smarter Storage.
Instead of you spending hours trying to find something you need, a well-kept and organized space saves you loads of
Some experts recommend one room at a time, and others advise to tackle one category after another. However you do it, you will reap the benefits and feel great about the time spent. So grab a cup of tea, open the windows and get
Here's a kick start to your journey of 30 days to declutter
SOCKS! MATCH UP STRAYS, PURGE SINGLES, THROW AWAY OLD ONES
DONATE OLD GAMES
CLEAR OUT ALL BATH & SHOWER BOTTLES
ORGANIZE THE LINEN CLOSET
CLEAN OUT YOUR PURSE & WALLET
PURGE YOUR MAKEUP DRAWER
CLEAR OUT MOVIES: VHS, DVD
PURGE ONE KITCHEN FOOD CUPBOARD
CLEAN OUT THE FREEZER
PURGE THE HALL CLOSET
DONATE OLD COATS AND ACCESSORIES
MATCH LIDS & PURGE STORAGE CONTAINERS
ORGANIZE YOUR OFFICE DESK PURGE SERVING BOWLS AND PLATES CLEAR OUT MEDICINE CABINET & DRAWERS
UNSUBSCRIBE TO AT LEAST 10 EMAILS
DONATE COOKBOOKS YOU HAVEN'T USED IN A YEAR!
THROW OUT OR GIVE AWAY OLD, UNWANTED ALCOHOL
REMOVE MISMATCHED, OLD THROW PILLOWS WASH THE REST
FILL 1 BIN OR BAG WITH CLOTHES TO DONATE
PURGE YOUR JEWELLERY AND KEEP ONLY SPECIAL AND WORN ITEMS
DONATE OR THROW AWAY OLD PURSES AND BAGS
ORGANIZE UNDER THE SINK(S) CLEAN ONE BATHROOM DRAWER
CHECK PANTRY: THROW OUT OUTDATED ITEMS AND ORGANIZE THE REST GATHER CORDS AND CHARGERS LABEL EACH ONE, RECYCLE THE REST
CLEAR OUT NIGHT STAND DRAWERS
BC Best Coastal
By: Claire Newell, Travel Expert, Travel Best Bets
Getaways
BEAUTIFUL BC HAS SOME OF THE MOST AMAZING COASTLINE IN THE WORLD. AND ALTHOUGH IT FEELS LIKE TRAVEL IS NOT AN OPTION AGAIN THIS YEAR, I’M HERE TO TELL YOU THAT’S JUST NOT TRUE. WE WILL CERTAINLY HAVE TO SPEND ANOTHER YEAR TRAVELING CLOSER TO HOME, BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN YOU CAN’T PLAN A WONDERFUL FAMILY VACATION AND MAKE SOME AMAZING MEMORIES. HERE ARE SOME SPECTACULAR BC DESTINATIONS TO CONSIDER FOR YOUR BEST FAMILY GETAWAY THIS SUMMER.
Depart from Horseshoe Bay and set sail on a BC Ferry towards the Sunshine Coast. Relax and enjoy the panoramic mountain views on this quick, scenic sailing. Ruby Lake Resort boasts a spectacular natural setting, nestled between the Caren Mountain Range and Ruby Lake, the warmest fresh water lake on the Sunshine Coast. The resort’s cozy cottages are situated on a large lagoon, which is also a natural wildlife and bird sanctuary. Explore the area via an extensive trail network, and take advantage of outdoor activities like stand up paddle boarding, canoeing and lakefront yoga. A short drive away is The Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina. This luxury resort is tucked into a peaceful waterfront harbour, surrounded by fir, red cedar and arbutus trees.
Sooke is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island just a 38 km drive from Victoria. With local artisans, cafes and extensive parks and hiking trails, Sooke is a great option for a seaside family getaway. The Prestige Oceanfront Resort offers breathtaking views of the Sooke Harbour and has a spa, restaurant, and luxurious guest rooms.
Next up, Victoria, with ts charming heritage buildings and cobblestone streets, top-rated restaurants, and amazing waterfront location, it’s a fantastic place for a family getaway. There are so many things for families to enjoy like the Bug Zoo, Royal BC Museum, Miniature World or Butterfly Gardens. Plus, lots of options for family-friendly hotels including Oak Bay Beach Resort, Magnolia Hotel & Spa & Inn at Laurel Point.
And also situated on Vancouver Island, just a 30 min drive from Nanaimo, is Parksville which has long been a favourite destination for families. You can stroll along its vast sandy beaches or if you’re craving something more adventurous, head over to Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park and discover
why Vancouver Island is called the “Island of Caves.” Some great options for accommodation in Parksville are The Beach Club Resort, Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort or Beach Acres Resort.
Tofino has a gorgeous rugged coastline, beautiful sandy beaches, and lush old-growth forests with a charming town filled with artisan boutiques, surf shops and incredible restaurants --- all the makings for a fun-filled family vacation. Some of the family friendly accommodation in Tofino include Best Western Tin Wis Resort, Ocean Village Resort & Pacific Sands Beach Resort.
About 30 minutes from Tofino is Ucluelet which in my opinion is a little less touristy and more affordable. It is still pretty close to all of the beaches that the west side of Vancouver Island is famous for and has plenty of other things for families to enjoy. Some of the top attractions to visit are the Wild Pacific Trail, Amphitrite Point Lighthouse, the Ucluelet Aquarium & Thorton Creek Hatchery. There are lots of options for family-friendly accommodation, two worth considering are the sleek, luxurious Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, as well as the plush suites & woodsy cabins at The Cabins at Terrace Beach.
Sunshine Coast
Victoria
Tofino
FUNDRAISING AT A DISTANCE
By: Andrea Vance
HOW TO RAISE $$ WITHOUT CONTACT & GATHERING
Fundraising has become a way of life for most school parent groups, sports teams and community organizations. With the pandemic, many in-person fundraisers like carnivals, pub nights, and live auctions aren’t possible and organizations are looking for alternatives to make up the missing funds.
ART CARDS BY KIDS
Bring art into the classroom while fundraising in a fun and rewarding way. Parents purchase their own child's art cards with their art on the front and their name and age on the back. It's profitable and easy to facilitate. Perfect for holidays, birthdays and keeping in touch with family at a distance. www.artcardsbykids.com
SPELLATHON
A great way for kids to learn AND raise money. Work with teachers to develop age-appropriate lists of words for each class. Kids get the words ahead of time to practice, and solicit pledges from family, friends, and neighbours for each word they spell correctly. Pledges can be made by email transfer so no contact required! On spellathon day, you can award prizes for top spellers, top pledges collected, and a live virtual spelling bee too!
50/50, RAFFLE, OR WINE DRAW
These are always popular with family and friends, and are relatively easy to coordinate. Cash and electronics make great prizes for all ages and audiences. Keep in mind that many small businesses have been affected by CoVid restrictions and are struggling, but many other businesses are thriving. You can use funds from the sale of tickets to purchase prizes, or ask some businesses for donations. Please note a provincial gaming license is required for these draws, and can be applied for online.
PLANT SALE
Work with a local plant wholesaler, like Growing Smiles, West Coast Seeds, or Windsor Greenhouse, to provide plants and flowers for pre-order. Each plant sold means dollars for your school or community group. www.growingsmilesfundraising.com www.windsorgreenhouse.ca www.westcoastseeds.com
PIZZA
Everyone loves pizza — especially when it’s from Rocky Mountain Flatbread. Parents love the fresh and healthy ingredients, and kids just love anything pizza! Rocky Mountain offers a frozen pizza fundraising program, or fundraising evenings in the restaurant, giving back 10 per cent of food sales. Great way to have fun as a team and raise money too. www.rockymountainflatbread.ca
BIRTHDAYS
AS THE PANDEMIC CONTINUES
By: Andrea Vance
SPRING IS IN THE AIR AND BRIGHTER DAYS ARE COMING! IT’S TIME TO GET OUTSIDE AND ENJOY SOME FRESH AIR. THIS MAKES BIRTHDAY PARTIES SO MUCH EASIER, WHETHER YOU HIT THE PARK OR THE BEACH, GO FOR A WATERFALL HIKE OR CREATE A MAGICAL PICNIC.
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A BIGGER PARTY IDEA, WE’VE FOUND SOME GREAT WAYS TO CELEBRATE LOCALLY, NO MATTER WHAT YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD.
Neverland Tea Salon
Vancouver and anywhere
Enjoy High Tea in your own home… with the Neverland takeout Spring High Tea Towers. Chef Gordon Kuang has brought back some of your favorite savories and Pastry Chef Candice Morrow has created an amazing variety of beautiful sweets to take you on a wonderful adventure! Set the table, get dressed up, and enjoy a special birthday celebration with your best china and silverware. www.neverlandtea.com
WildPlay
Maple Ridge
Climb, zip, and slide through the trees with your family or close friends. This is all outside in the fresh air and keeps all ages busy for hours. Add in Axe-throwing and the Freefall jump and really get your adrenaline going. Perfect for the whole family or a small group of friends too.
www.wildplay.com
6 Pack Beach
Richmond
Rent a court for 2 hours for your household or small bubble. Play dodgeball, hoverball, spikeball, volleyball and more games together. Belly up to the cafe for great pizza, and lots of other food and treats. Rentals include all your equipment and instruction and the people at 6 Pack Beach are fantastic! For a family it’s just $100 and you get 15% off food too. https://6packbeach.com/kids-and-youth/beach-fest/kidsbeach-camp/
Luminous Elephant
Vancouver
Make bath bombs, bead bracelets or tie dyed totes with your child and a few close friends. There’s also painting class, movie making, and pet clay projects. The studio is spacious and open to fit up to 8 kids with proper distancing and protocols In place. Pick your art, have kids dropped off (mask on) and explore art together. When you book a party this bright, beautiful studio - the entire studio is yours. You never share the space with another event/class or party. www.luminouselephant.com/parties
STATE OF THE ART: THE NEW ARTS UMBRELLA FACILITY IN VANCOUVER OPENS THIS SPRING!
By: Ariane Fleischmann
CHILDREN’S ARTS EDUCATION IN VANCOUVER WILL REACH A WHOLE NEW LEVEL WHEN A GROUND-BREAKING CENTRE FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH OPENS ITS DOORS TO FAMILIES THIS SPRING.
Local not-for-profit Arts Umbrella will unveil its new Granville Island facility at 1400 Johnston Street on April 10, 2021. A project years in the making, the new building more than triples the organization’s current space on Granville Island and provides scope for vastly expanded and enhanced programming.
The 50,000 net-square-foot building on Granville Island repurposes the former South Building of Emily Carr University of Art + Design. The centre will transform the organization’s delivery of visual art, theatre, and dance programs for young people ages 2-22.
To date, close to $35 million in funding has been secured toward the $37-million capital and endowment goal. This includes significant funding from all levels of government, including the Government of
“Now, we have room to support and inspire more young people to seek wonder through the arts.”
Canada through a $7-million contribution from the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund and $2.6 million from the Canada Cultural Investment Fund, as well as the Province of BC with an additional $1.4 million.
Arts Umbrella hopes the building will create additional excitement and energy on Granville Island, complementing the many artisans, artists, theatres, and small businesses who make the Island a nationally recognized hub for arts and culture.
“Over the past few years, our staff’s hard work, innovations, and programming leadership have steadily pushed against the boundaries of our current space,” says Paul Larocque, President & CEO at Arts Umbrella. “Now, we have room to support and inspire more young people to seek wonder through the arts.”
The state-of-the-art building will house six spacious dance studios, four theatre, music and film studios with specialized technical and audio equipment, 10 art and design studios, media labs, a ceramics studio, and a photography darkroom. A dedicated workshop area for
woodworking and a stagecraft building area will offer training to future industry professionals. Capping it off is a 132-seat theatre where dance and theatre performances crafted in the studios will be shared with the public and students from across Metro Vancouver.
The facility will also prioritize the ongoing health and safety of staff and students with state-of-the-art engineering and retrofits, including an AtmosAir ionization system that naturally filters pollutants from the air.
The building marks a significant leap forward for this storied organization. Arts Umbrella was founded in 1979, opening on Granville Island to 45 students. It has since expanded to locations across Metro Vancouver, serving more than 600,000 young people over the past 42 years. Today, close to 200 artist-educators help students unlock their passions for the arts, empowering them with essential skills such as creative thinking, confidence, and compassion.
In recent years, demand for programs has increased significantly. The organization currently serves more than 24,000 young people across Metro Vancouver annually. Within the first 3-5 years in the new facility, approximately 15,000 children and youth are expected annually, through a wide range of programs, including community initiatives, distance learning for children in Canada’s remote North, bursaries, and scholarships.
Arts Umbrella programs are developed and delivered on the basis that creativity plays a fundamental role in development, particularly in the early learning age group of 2-6. That includes problem-solving, play, nurturing curiosity, and self-confidence.
“It’s important that young children are able to look up to youth and teens,” says Larocque. “The opportunity to witness older students expressing their creativity and finding success is an empowering experience. These role models across all artistic disciplines are a critical part of a well-rounded and inspiring arts education for our youngest population.”
Increasing access and participation in the arts is part of the non-profit’s core mission. Arts Umbrella engages nearly 20,000 young people each year in donor-funded programs designed for at-risk communities. The building will significantly expand their capacity to work with school boards, community centres, and neighbourhood houses to provide transformative experiences for vulnerable members in our community.
The organization offers a diverse curriculum of creative activities for this age group. Parent & Me classes offer a fun and supportive environment for parents to bond with toddlers through art, drama, dance, and music. Creative Dance classes encourage young kids to express themselves through play, percussion games, and choreography. Visual Arts classes teach children to engage with shape, colour, pattern while trying new materials and techniques, while in Creative Drama, children gain social skills and discover new ways of relating to one another in an engaging and interactive environment. Making Music classes introduce kids to hand-held percussion instruments and musical stories.
Importantly, the new building will offer a dedicated studio space for children ages 2-6, with facilities adapted to their needs. Larocque emphasises the benefits of this one-stop arts hub for all stages of childhood.
Registration is now open for Spring Session programs, which will take place in the new facility.
Arts Umbrella artist-instructors are bristling with anticipation at the opportunities the new space presents.
“All the studios are bigger and better-equipped with really nice lighting,” says artist Suzy Birstein, who teaches Drawing & Painting and Clay Sculpture classes. “The exhibition spaces are going to be so important. It will create a more natural interplay amongst the different disciplines [of visual art, dance and theatre]. There will be more opportunity for instructors, children, and families to see the breadth of what’s really going on at Arts Umbrella.”
“It will really launch Arts Umbrella,” says visual artist and instructor Andre Seow. “We can involve kids, youth and teens in curating their own shows and mounting their own exhibitions open to the public.”
Arts Umbrella hopes that the new building will build on its 42-year legacy to become a cherished part of the province’s arts and culture community, serving as a model for arts education across North America.
“This momentous civic accomplishment is something for the whole community to be proud of,” says Larocque. “It demonstrates what can be achieved through community, corporate, and government collaboration for the benefit of children and youth.”
Registration is now open for Arts Umbrella Spring Session classes in the new Granville Island facility. Visit www.artsumbrella.com/programs or call 604-681-5268 for more information.
What’s Growing On
By: Jaydeen Williams, Development and Communications Director
TOO MANY KIDS DON’T KNOW WHERE FOOD COMES FROM OR HAVE ACCESS TO HEALTHY, WHOLE FOODS. GROWING CHEFS IS ON A MISSION TO CHANGE THAT.
At Growing Chefs, kids ages six to 12 engage in the entire food cycle. This includes digging in the soil, planting seeds, caring for a garden, harvesting herbs and vegetables, learning basic cooking skills, composting, and so much more! With a home base in Vancouver, B.C., programs are delivered in schools throughout the province. Growing Chefs was founded in 2005 by pastry chef Merri Schwartz, and became a registered Canadian charity in 2014. The organization relies on donations from the community.
At Growing Chefs, they envision a world where sustainable, healthy, just food is accessible for all. They enact our mission through edible education—food literacy programs, delivered by teams of local chef and community volunteers, that give kids hands-on experience with the whole food cycle, from seed to plate to compost.
The team at Growing Chefs believe food can be a catalyst for change in the lives of kids and youth and that it plays a crucial role in supporting healthy communities and a healthy planet. It’s not just about giving kids food; it’s also about getting them excited about it! By providing a space where they can feel joy, autonomy, and dignity in their interaction with food—watching seedlings sprout from the soil, learning to chop with a knife, or eating third and fourth helpings of a salad they grew and prepared for themselves.
In these programs, kids plant and care for their own gardens, learn to prepare and cook nutritious meals, and share meals together. When kids grow and cook their own food, they want to eat it.
THE PROGRAMS
There are two school-based programs. The first is the Classroom Gardening & Cooking Program. Working with community volunteers and volunteers from the chef and restaurant industry, kids engage in a three-month hands-on food literacy program. The program equips them with the skills and knowledge to empower and excite them to make healthier food choices. What sets this program apart is the relationship built over time between kids and food systems champions in their communities—chefs, farmers, master gardeners, nutrition educators, and more.
The second program is LunchLAB, a collaboration with another charity, Fresh Roots. LunchLAB is an innovative school lunch program, where kids learn to grow food, and with the support of a chef in residence, prepare healthy meals for themselves and their peers twice a week.
Through hands-on education, Growing Chefs strive to create a behavioural shift in children’s and youth’s food choices and in their understanding of the role food plays in their lives. In these programs, kids and youth become aware of the healthy options available to them and learn all of the ways food and their food choices affect their health, their community, and the environment.
During this pandemic, the Growing Chefs program has not been able to work in elementary schools in person. However, the edible education and agricultural awareness programs has not missed a beat! They have pivoted their programming to offer a variety of online resources and virtual programming for classrooms and home-learners to continue learning about urban agriculture, healthy food, and healthy food systems.
(continued on page 30)
CURRENT ONLINE PROGRAMS INCLUDE:
• Virtual lessons with videos, worksheets, and activities
• Virtual field trips
• A program for home-learners
• A “vegeta-pal” program (chef and community volunteers acting as video pen pals to school classrooms) And more!
Growing Chefs can’t wait to be in classrooms again in person when it is safe to do so. Tell your children’s teachers about Growing Chefs or participate with your kids at home.
Growing Chefs is where kids’ connection to food takes root.
For more information, please visit our website: www.growingchefs.ca
WANT TO GET INVOLVED?
• Volunteer
• Attent a (virtual) event
• Subscribe to the newsletter
• Follow @GrowingChefs on Facebook or Instagram or @GrowingChefsBC on Twitter
HOST A FUNDRAISING EVENT
Donate to keep the programs going and grow more chefs. Please give today!
CONTACT GROWING CHEFS:
500-610 Main Street Vancouver, BC V6Z2V3
778-885-1308
admin@growingchefs.ca
Charitable Registration 841127566RR0001
COMPOST QUIZ
Adding compost to your garden feeds your soil with nutrients and microorganisms. This improves plant growth and helps Your vegetables get big and strong! Composting recycles kitchen and yard waste and reduces landfill waste. Composting is good for you and good for the environment.
WHAT ITEMS CAN YOU PUT IN YOUR COMPOST?
(FIND THE ANSWER BELOW)
• Eggshells
• Coffee grounds
• Dog fur
• Fruit and vegetable scraps
• Meat, bones, fish, and seafood shells
• Noodles, rice, beans, grains, and bread
• Empty cereal boxes
• Popsicle sticks
• Wine corks
• Wooden chopsticks
• Paper bags
• Cotton balls
• Wax paper
• Your haircut
• Pizza boxes
• Food-soiled newspaper
• Leaves
• Weeds
• Flowers
RECOMMENDED READING:
IN THEIR WORDS
“I got a great kick out of the kids’ surprised reaction when I had them smell lemongrass and basil separately, then again together.”
— Chef Wade Rowland, classroom volunteer
“One highlight from my time in the classroom was when a student who had never eaten salad at home helped themselves to three servings in the classroom!” — Sarah Jameson, classroom volunteer
COMPOST STEW: AN A TO Z RECIPE FOR THE EARTH,
BY
MARY MCKENNA SIDDALS FOR AGES 4 TO 8.
Answer: All of them!
“I had parents emailing to tell me that their kids are eating more vegetables, trying new veggies for the first time, and helping out in the kitchen more.“ — Rosa Oudt, teacher
“You are really kind and you help us grow plants. I liked it when you were here with us!!” — Heather, age 9
“I learned how to plant kale, mint, parsley, and even more! My favourite part was when we got to eat everything we made.” — Kyle, age 10
“I love Growing Chefs! I liked to watch our beans grow taller than us!” — Harveer, age 7
“I had a great time with Growing Chefs! It was cool. I learned that you can put newspaper in the compost. We learned how to grow peas and beans. It was epic!” — Jonathan, age 8
