Westshore Living July 30, 2023

Celebrating Pride at Starlight Stadium

Although it’s a quiet month of August in terms of the total number of home games for Pacific FC, with the only one coming on Sunday August 13, that match will more than make up for it.

That Sunday will be Pacific’s 2023 Pride Match presented by Volkswagen in support of the Vic-

toria Pride Society. Last season’s Pride Match at Starlight Stadium was a beautiful and joyous occasion all around, and this year things are looking even bigger and better.

With pre-match drag performances from some of Victoria’s best drag performers, as well as complimentary PFC-branded

pride bandanas to the first 1,000 guests, complimentary ice cream treats on the way out, a visit from the Volkswagen mini car, and much more, it’s sure to be a lively day out at the stadium.

What makes the occasion all the more special is how perfectly the annual Pride Match fits into the club’s ethos: soccer should

Ravi Parmar reflects on

Acommentary by Ravi Parmar, the MLA-elect for Langford-Juan de Fuca.

As I bid farewell to my time as a student activist, school trustee, and chair of the Sooke School District Board of Education, I find myself reminiscing about the incredible journey that has brought me to this moment.

As I step into my new role as the MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca, I am filled with gratitude for the people who have been part of my path, shaping my commitment to education, citizenship, and community leadership.

During my tenure with the school district, I have witnessed the transformative power of education first-hand. From the early days of advocating for new schools at the old Belmont Secondary to spearheading the largest expansion of public education in the district’s history, it has been a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

I am particularly proud to have led the creation of 2,200 new seats, the establishment of new schools, expansions, and strategic land acquisitions which laid the foundation for a brighter future for our students and communities.

Reflecting on my time as a student activist, I recall the passion and drive that propelled me to stand up for the causes I believed in.

Together with fellow students, we raised our voices to bring attention to critical issues affecting our education system, from inadequate facilities to the need for more inclusive learning environments.

Our advocacy efforts were not in vain; they served as the catalyst for change and fostered a spirit of empowerment among our peers.

Transitioning into the role of a school trustee allowed me to see the broader picture and become part of the decision-making process that shapes the educational landscape.

It was a responsibility I carried with great humility and dedication, always striving to ensure that the voices of students, teachers, and parents were heard and respected.

The trust placed in me by the community was a reminder of the tremendous responsibility we bear in molding the minds and futures of the next generation.

Leading the school board brought with it its own set of challenges and opportunities. Collaborating with fellow trustees and

education professionals, we crafted innovative policies and initiatives aimed at creating an inclusive, nurturing, and progressive learning environment.

Our collective efforts empowered students to thrive, educators to excel, and parents to be engaged partners in their children’s education.

As I now embark on my new journey as the MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca, I carry these experiences with me, fully aware that the work is far from over.

Education remains the cornerstone of societal progress, and I am steadfast in my commitment to push for further advancements in our educational system.

The role of a public servant grants me the privilege to serve the community at a higher level, striving to advocate for the betterment of education and address other critical issues affecting our region.

As I close this chapter, I want to extend my sincerest appreciation to everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey.

The students who have taught me resilience, the educators and support staff who have shown unwavering dedication, the parents

be a safe and welcoming space for everyone. Through the Pride Match, as well as other initiatives including their collaboration with Common Goal and Play Proud, Pacific FC and its supporters have consistently sought to be a leader in this area of professional sport.

And looking back on last season’s Pride Match with how euphoric and memorable the day off the pitch was, the supporters in attendance were also treated to plenty of action on the pitch. The Tridents came away 3-0 winners against Cavalry FC on that day in 2022 which further enhanced the celebratory atmosphere in the stadium. Given all of that, the team will be motivated to match or better that performance this season.

If there needed to be any more reason to come out to Starlight Stadium on August 13th, Atlético Ottawa come to this town this time around - a fellow championship hopeful and a team with whom Pacific has had multiple memorable matches against over the years.

But in the end, the occasion is all about Pride and celebrating Greater Victoria’s 2SLGBTQIA+ communities as we all work towards a society free of marginalization and discrimination and full of pride in each other.

So don’t miss the chance to celebrate and take part in one of the biggest PFC home matches of the season. Make sure you come out to Starlight Stadium early on Sunday August 13th as the festivities will start when gates open at 12pm.

who have entrusted me with their children’s futures, and the community members who have supported and challenged me – you have all played an integral role in shaping the leader I am today.

Together, let us continue to build upon the foundation we have laid, for there is more work to be done. I am eager and ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that

lie ahead as I embark on this new chapter of service.

The journey may be winding, but with the support and collaboration of our community, we will undoubtedly forge a brighter, more inclusive, and prosperous future for all.

Thank you, SD62, for the incredible memories, the invaluable experiences, and the enduring friendships.

Ravi Parmar won John Horgan’s former seat in the provincial riding of Langford-Juan de Fuca last month. ADRIAN LAM, TIMES COLONIST

WIN resale shop opens on Goldstream Avenue

Looking for bargains on the West Shore? Looking to help the community?

Women In Need has opened a resale shop on Goldstream Avenue, three years after closing its West Shore store at the start of the pandemic. The store sells secondhand clothing for all genders and ages, shoes and accessories, housewares, linens, books, toys, furniture and more.

“It is so thrilling to be back,” says Clare Yazganoglu, WIN’s

executive director.

Revenue from WIN’s stores, along with financial contributions, is used to fund the non-profit’s five empowerment programs: crisis and referral, gift certificates, emergency funding and food certificates, self-sufficiency bursaries, and new start, which provides household items to set up a new home after leaving a transition house or crisis situation. Each year, the organization supports more than 2,000 pro -

gram participants.

“By opening this new location we will be increasing accessibility to program participants living in the West Shore,” said Nicole Lapierre, WIN’s program co-ordinator. “This community is growing, and we are so excited to grow with it to better offer our empowerment programs.”

The new store – the fifth for the charity in Greater Victoria –is at #2-310 Goldstream Ave. , in the plaza beside Thrifty Foods and behind Rexall.

Meet Keenan: One of the 25 Dream Kids for the 2023 Golf for Kids Charity Golf Classic

As the Golf for Kids Annual Charity Golf Classic gets ready to celebrate its 25th anniversary on September 9, the excitement is heightened as dreams are set to come to life for up to twenty-five exceptional young individuals known as the Dream Kids. With unwavering support from generous contributors, like title sponsor Don Mann Excavating Ltd., part of the Mann Group of Companies, the Golf for Kids charity has achieved an impressive feat, raising over 9.5 million dollars to date. These funds have been channeled directly to children’s charities, trusts, and organizations, serving as a beacon of hope for countless families facing challenging circumstances.

One of the many charities that Golf for Kids supports is the Help Fill A Dream Foundation, which has played a crucial role in making dreams come true for children in need. With their participation, the event’s impact has been multiplied, bringing joy and positive change to the lives of young individuals facing various health challenges.

Many local families have been touched by the transformative ex-

periences made possible through the Golf for Kids initiative. With dreams ranging from essential medical equipment tailored to each child’s unique needs to personalized adventure trips, the impact extends far beyond the moments of fulfillment, leaving lasting impressions on the hearts of those involved. With an average cost of $10,000 to fulfill each dream, the Golf for Kids Charity exemplifies the power of collective generosity.

Among the remarkable Dream Kids is Keenan, a 14-year-old boy with an infectious smile that brightens up any room. Born with low muscle tone and dislocated hips, Keenan faces the challenges of a Seizure Disorder and Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder, which have resulted in developmental delays.

Keenan’s dream is a pediatric trike - an adaptive bike that holds the promise of transforming his life. This specialized bike is designed to accommodate his unique needs, offering him not just a mode of transportation but a means to strengthen his core muscles and achieve crucial developmental milestones. Keenan’s family

understands the profound impact this adaptive bike will have on his life. Beyond the physical benefits, the trike will serve as a vehicle for cherished family moments, allowing them to enjoy the great outdoors together.

At this year’s Golf for Kids Charity Golf Classic, the dreams of Keenan and other exceptional Dream Kids are set to come true. With the unwavering support of the community, the event stands as a testament to the transformative power of dreams, compassion and generosity.

From left, WIN production operations manager Natalie Beach-Day, Colwood Mayor Doug Kobayashi, WIN West Shore manager Alison Clarke, Colwood Coun. David Grove and WIN executive director Clare Yazganoglu at the grand opening of Women In Need’s West Shore Resale Shop on July 8. COURTESY WIN

Bathrooms and matte black trends: bold and beautiful inspiration

lines, and a rounded base. We carry both the Single, Top Handle Faucet, and the Widespread Faucet models.”

For all you bathers who love a good soak, you can elevate your Zen time. If your go-to relaxation is a book and glass of wine, look to Kartners’ Free Standing Bath Wine Stand to keep everything within reach. Its modern styling is the perfect accent piece, and accommodates your book or laptop, stemmed wine glass, and towel.

For wall-mounting towel hardware, consider Kartners’ Oslo Collection Towel Bar 12”, with its round minimalist look, softened by round forms, it delivers a strong contemporary style.

Your fluffy robes can have their own home, too, on the Oslo Triple Robe Hook, with three fixed horizontal hooks, and concealed mounting for a seamless look.

Whether you’re going to tackle a bathroom renovation or simply want to kick up the wow factor, matte black faucets and accessories go a long way in making a stylish statement, especially if you want to infuse some depth and drama to your focal points or accents.

The mass appeal of matte black cannot be understated, as it continues to filter into the mainstream and be incorporated throughout home designs. It’s showing up everywhere, but predominantly kitchen and bath spaces.

“We’ve seen matte black grow in popularity over the past few years, and a lot of our customers are asking for it more often,” says Adam Young, marketing coordinator, with Splashes Bath & Kitchen, Victoria, B.C.

“Customers can expect a wider range of options than years ago. We stock a variety of brands that offer matte black in their collections, like Riobel, with their faucets and shower kits, or Kartners’ line of accessories.”

BIGGEST ADVANTAGES OF MATTE BLACK

Matte black offers a more distinct and sleek profile than conventional fixture designs and finishes, so it’s easy to modern -

ize your bathroom. Its timeless quality means it’s unlikely to go out of style.

Known for its versatility, it’s exciting to integrate with other metals for contrast, like satin brass and golds, for instance, even stainless. Plus, it pairs seamlessly with any design styles you want to achieve, like modern, traditional, or transitional.

Additionally, most people gravitate towards a neutral colour palette in their bathrooms, which makes it a great finish option that pops and complements fluently.

If your bathroom is well-lit or sunshine streams in, with an unpolished finish like matte black, you’ll find less glare, without light bouncing off your fixtures.

“It’s softer, more subdued, too,” adds Young, “while maintaining an air of sophistication and elegance.”

The big bonus? Maintenance is virtually effortless, as this black beauty is more impervious to water marks, fingerprints and scratches, compared to chrome or other metallic surfaces.

PRODUCT COLLECTIONS, INSPIRATION

The experts at Splashes Bath & Kitchen share some options to incorporate matte black products into your bathroom.

“The faucets in the Nibi Collection by Riobel have a minimal aesthetic that would complement any bathroom,” explains Young.

“They’ve taken inspiration from the cone-shaped tapering of a lighthouse, with straight, steady

“If you’re considering matte black for your bathroom fixtures and accessories, our consultants will help you with your questions and provide you with design advice,” reveals Young. “Our experts are here to help make your dream bathroom a reality.”

For more information on the