Local Connections: The Comox Valley Food Bank

The Comox Valley Food Bank (CVFB) was founded on the idea of neighbours helping neighbours. They believe that providing additional food to support those struggling with food insecurity increases individual and community wellbeing and capacity. Offering people additional support around food security increases their capacity to show up as their best selves in work and in community. In particular, they are dedicated to the role that they play in the social support network, working to reduce food waste and improve food security in the Comox Valley.

The CVFB currently rescues approximately 80,000 pounds of food each month from major distributors within our catchment area (same as School District 71), such as Costco, Thrifty Foods, Hugh’s Independent, Quality Foods, Shopper’s Drugmart, and Walmart. They collect and purchase food daily, bring it to the Food Bank at 1255 McPhee Avenue, and organize it to be distributed, stored, and shared with the community. The Food Bank provides supplemental food sources, ideally on a temporary basis, from Monday to Friday, 9am-12pm to over 3,500 client visits from Oyster River to Bowser each month. While there are some reasons, such as disability, where a client may need extended support from services like the CVFB, their internal research indicates that many clients visit either once per month or for a period of approximately 6 months or less. For community members who have mobility or transportation challenges, the Food Bank also provides a home-delivery service of fresh and non-perishable goods every two weeks.

The CVFB also distributes food to as many as two dozen like-minded community partner organizations, like Lake Trail Community Education Society (LTCES), Cumberland School Society, the Transition Society, Family Services Association, and Vancouver Island Health Authority. In particular, relationships with schools like LTCES support fantastic food programs and food classes that increase young people’s capacity to learn and develop and engage with food-related education. In the last year, the CVFB has increased their relationships with local farmers, which has allowed them to offer beautiful, fresh, local produce that enhances the nutritional value and quality of the meals that clients are creating for themselves and their families. Because of generous donations from local producers, conscious of sharing with neighbours in need and reducing food waste, produce such as beans, lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, apples, and fresh herbs were available to Food Bank clients. In the near future the CVFB will see the completion of a Community Kitchen that will facilitate proper food portioning, preparation, preservation, and could eventually lend space to community partners.

In August and September of this year, they harvested their very first crop of three different squash varieties! A generous donation of a cleared field and expert guidance from Arden Farms meant that, for the first time, they were able to grow their own produce specifically for Food Bank clients. They are looking forward to expanding the types of produce that they grow, as well as their knowledge and understanding of farming in the coming years.

With dedicated and passionate support from community members and volunteers, the Food Bank offers a few initiatives that extend their support to local families beyond food supplies. In September, they put together and distributed over 300 backpacks full of school supplies to families with young people starting school. Additionally, they have birthday party kits available throughout the year for families with young people wanting to host a birthday party. They love receiving photos that community members send in so that we can all experience the full impact of these initiatives. If you have benefited from or been a part of these initiatives and have photos or stories that you would like to share, please reach out to the Food Bank directly and ask to speak with their Strategic Communications person, Sarah.

The CVFB is grateful for everyone in this community who is contributing actively and thoughtfully to the food security movement, from financial donations, food drives, and produce donations to sharing information, building relationships, and using rescued foods effectively and intentionally to create nutritious meals for people in need. Their website, comoxvalleyfoodbank.ca, provides established information, including a tour video illustrating what a basic visit to the Food Bank could look like. Their Facebook and Instagram (@cvfoodbank) accounts provide regularly weekly updates for clients, community members, and partners. They are always happy to have conversations with local community members looking to have a positive impact on the food security movement or partner in a way that increases access to healthy, balanced, nutritious meals. If you have questions or would like to speak to a member of staff about anything, please reach out by email to administration@comoxvalleyfoodbank.ca or by phone at 1-250-338-0615.

Brought to you by the Comox Valley Food Bank

The post The Comox Valley Food Bank appeared first on My Comox Valley Now.

In a world where young hearts bear the weight of trauma, Raven’s Nest is a beacon of compassion, care, and justice. With a deep-rooted commitment to youths’ physical, emotional and mental well-being, Raven’s Nest has become a powerful force in the realm of youth advocacy and trauma support for youth who have disclosed incidents of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, and are entering into the criminal justice process. Through their unwavering dedication and nurturing approach, they have brought light and healing to countless young lives, guiding them on a path towards recovery, empowerment, and justice.

Holistic Youth Advocacy:

Raven’s Nest embraces a holistic approach to youth advocacy, recognizing that healing is a multifaceted journey. Their team of professionals, including caring advocates, compassionate law enforcement officers, nurturing medical staff, and empathetic mental health experts, join forces to prioritize the unique needs of each individual. By fostering collaboration among these diverse expertise, Raven’s Nest creates a unified and integrated response that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of every youth they serve.

https://youtu.be/DEqwkE6S-Xw

Creating a Safe Haven:

Within the physical center of Raven’s Nest lies a sanctuary—a haven of safety and warmth. Every detail is thoughtfully designed with the comfort of young hearts in mind. From the inviting waiting room to the interview rooms adorned with child-friendly touches, Raven’s Nest ensures that youth feel secure and at ease. The presence of plain-clothed RCMP officers during forensic interviews provides an added layer of reassurance, safeguarding the well-being and trust of these vulnerable youths. Raven’s Nest tends to emotional wounds, nurturing the spirit and fostering healing. The journey toward justice can be a long and challenging road, and Raven’s Nest works to shield young survivors from the most difficult and traumatizing aspects of that journey.

Advocates Who Go Above and Beyond:

Raven’s Nest's team of advocates is the heart and soul of the organization. These compassionate professionals are dedicated to helping youth through every step of their criminal justice journey. Whether it's providing essential information, connecting them with vital resources, or offering a listening ear, Raven’s Nest advocates offer unwavering support. They understand the importance of empathy, actively working to create a safe space where youth can share their experiences without fear of judgment or blame.

Healing Pain – Not Reliving it:

One of the key strengths of Raven’s Nest lies in its commitment to minimizing re-traumatization. The program recognizes the impact of repeated storytelling on youth who have experienced trauma. By centralizing services and bringing all resources under one roof, Raven’s Nest significantly reduces the number of times youth have to recount their stories of abuse. This approach not only helps alleviate their emotional burden but also empowers them to regain a sense of control over their lives.

Community Collaboration:

Raven’s Nest understands that addressing youth trauma requires a community-wide effort. They actively collaborate with law enforcement agencies, child protection workers, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations. By working together, they ensure a comprehensive response to child maltreatment, promote education and awareness, and enhance prevention strategies. Through public talks and educational programs, Raven’s Nest actively engages with the community to promote understanding and empower individuals to act against and work for justice against child abuse. This involves helping parents, caregivers, educators, and other youth serving adults understand the very real and present dangers of child maltreatment, including abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, online exploitation and extortion, and child-trafficking. Raven’s Nest provides guidance and support on how to discuss these topics with youth by removing shame and approaching with compassion and care.

Empowering Youth:

Above all, Raven’s Nest is driven by a vision of healing, empowerment, and justice. By providing centralized services, they offer youth the opportunity to access the support they need conveniently. The program recognizes that each young person's journey is unique, and their individual voices are valued and respected. Through unconditional support and personalized care, Raven’s Nest helps youth rebuild their lives, equipping them with the necessary tools to overcome their trauma and thrive.

Raven’s Nest is a shining example of youth advocacy making a difference on Vancouver Island. With their compassionate and caring approach, they create a safe space for young individuals to heal and find their voice. By embracing a holistic model of support, minimizing re-traumatization, educating about the modern dangers of the many forms of child maltreatment, and seeking justice through fostering community collaboration, Ravens Nest is transforming the lives of youth affected by trauma. Together, we can stand alongside Ravens Nest, empowering young survivors and ensuring a brighter future for all.

Ravens Nest is a program of Cowichan Women Against Violence Society.

For more information visit ravensNestCYAC.ca
Call: 250-606-1712
Email: intakeRavensNestCYAC@cwav.org

 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/RavensNestCYAC/

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When it comes to playing golf, many people assume they need to be a member of an expensive private club to enjoy the sport. However, this is simply not true – there’s an excellent public golf course available to golfers of all skill levels in the heart of Comox.

The Comox Golf Club is a public course that offers a fun and challenging golfing experience for players of all ages and skill levels. With a beautiful nine-hole course, a full-service pro shop, and friendly staff; this course is a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a round of golf in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

One of the best things about the Comox Golf Club is that it’s accessible to everyone. Whether you need to rent some clubs, or need a few replacement tees - the staff at the pro shop are always happy to help golfers get set up with everything and anything you need. And are happy to explain the rules and offer tips!

Scenic fairways, challenging greens, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean; the course itself is reason enough to visit the Comox Golf Club. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon with friends or family enjoying the beauty of the Comox Valley while getting some exercise and fresh air.

Of course, golfing at the Comox Golf Club is not just about the gorgeous course. It's also about the people who make up the community of golfers. From beginners to seasoned pros, everyone is welcome here! And the atmosphere is always friendly and enthusiastic. Whether you're looking to play a round of golf, hit the driving range, or just enjoy a meal or drink at the clubhouse; you'll find that the Comox Golf Club is a great place to be.

Speaking of the clubhouse restaurant; you don’t even have to play a round of golf to enjoy their world class menu! Featuring special dishes from the creative mind of their head chef, and local beers on tap; it’s the perfect spot to take your favourite people for a delicious meal. Or a good way to avoid making a mess in the kitchen during the week. And pay attention for special themed weekends designed to take you to new corners of the world.

The Comox Golf Club is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a round of golf in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. With its accessible public course, stunning scenery, and friendly staff, this course is a true gem in the Comox Valley.

Visit Comoxgolfclub.ca for more information, or stop by, with or without a membership, at 1718 Balmoral Avenue in Comox!

 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ComoxGolfClub

The post A Public Course A Lot Closer Than You Think – The Comox Golf Club appeared first on My Comox Valley Now.

The drone of the engine as it reaches its final elevation. The smell of the plane. The feel of nylon in hand as they check every strap, clip, and tie. The door opens – and wind comes rushing in. They brace themselves as they step up to the open hatch. A shaky breath is met by a comforting hand on their shoulder. One step and they’re in open air – letting gravity do it’s thing. The wind gets so loud it feels like the only thing they’ve ever heard. THIS is healing.

The frontlines are not a hospitable place. Whether in a combat zone, or as a first responder, the frontline is where they see the worst. But time and time again these incredible human beings rise to the occasion. That’s why Operation Pegasus Jump was started. To help veterans, serving military, first responders, and their families deal with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder while creating a community and support structure.

It was just last year Operation Pegasus Jump had their first organized jump day in Campbell River. There’s a very good reason they chose Campbell River – It’s home to the only veteran run skydiving companies in Canada. From across the country 89 veterans, serving military, first responders and their families came to the Island just for Op Pegasus Jump. From their oldest member at 81 to the youngest at 23, they all came to get trained, meet with people they hadn’t seen in years, and find a whole new hobby.

They offer training and tandem jumps for those that have never stepped out of a plane while it’s in the air. First Responders with jump training can get into the air sooner, after some safety training.

More than jumping; Operation Pegasus Jump makes sure to have mental health professionals on hand ready and eager to help. Paired with poignant ceremonies honouring those that are no longer here – Op Pegasus is a healing experience like no other for all first responders.

Operation Pegasus Jump’s impact cannot be measured. It cannot be quantified. It can only be felt. And there is no one better suited to convey that feeling than the people who have jumped.

Master Sailor Kate Stewart

"I ATTENDED OP PEGASUS TO HELP GET OVER MY FEAR OF HEIGHTS AND TO MEET SOME NEW PEOPLE! LITTLE DID I KNOW, I WOULD FIND MY NEW HOBBY. I’M NOW ADDICTED TO SKYDIVING, AND I’M PART OF AN AMAZING NEW COMMUNITY OF CURRENT AND FORMER MILITARY/LEO MEMBERS. GET OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE AND JOIN US THIS YEAR!”

Warrant Officer Shaun Taylor

"I WON'T WASTE YOUR TIME. WANNA FEEL BETTER, DO BETTER, BE PART OF SOMETHING THAT YOU WILL NEVER FORGET? GOOD. GO REGISTER, YOU WON'T REGRET IT. YOU HAVE MY WORD ON THAT.”

To get an even better feel for what Operation Pegasus Jump feels like on the ground for attendees, visit OperationPegasusFoundation.com – to watch the incredibly impactful documentary from their jump last year in Campbell River.

https://youtu.be/mMgFTTuBnD8

With such an incredible outpouring of support and results, Operation Pegasus Foundation has set their sights even higher, which is quite hard when you jump out of a plane for fun. They want more Military and first responders to know there is a unique way of getting the help so many First Responders struggle to find. And those lofty goals aren’t far with your help.

Right now, many attendees jumping have to cover their own costs. Which affects how many people can afford to attend. And with only one location it’s a far way to travel. Through your compassion and support Operation Pegasus Foundation wants to ensure all costs are covered for the First Responders, Veterans, and Serving Military members. As the number of attendees increases so will awareness, which will help find even more locations to host jumps.

To donate visit their website, OperationPegasusFoundation.com and find the donate button, or go directly to their gofundme page. No matter the donation, it will help ensure more support for First Responders, including paramedics, fire fighters, police officers, and more. As well as veterans and serving military members. They also offer sponsorship opportunities as another great way to help support them in their incredible mission.

 

Website: www.operationpegasusfoundation.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile

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TD Bank Group (TD) launches the TD Scholarship for Indigenous Peoples, a new scholarship program tailored specifically for students from the Indigenous community, managed by AFOA Canada. TD understands the unique challenges and systemic barriers we face as Indigenous Peoples. Which is why we have worked closely with TD to customize a scholarship program focused on the needs of students from the Indigenous community. 

"It's important that students from Indigenous communities have equitable access to education. The TD Scholarship for Indigenous Peoples aims to help provide students from Indigenous communities with the financial freedom and stability to explore the benefit of a post-secondary education and work education. I am thrilled to see this program launch and look forward to continuing our relationship with AFOA Canada." – Doris Bear, Vice President, Indigenous Banking, TD Bank Group 

The scholarship program will provide 25 successful applicants with $15k annually (with a maximum of $60k across 4 years) to be put towards tuition costs and living expenses for the duration of their studies. Additionally, recipients will be offered an internship opportunity with TD to gain valuable work experience aligned to their career aspirations. Internship opportunities will be available for students throughout their time as a recipient. 

“The new TD Scholarship program will be transformational in the lives of the Indigenous students” says Terry Goodtrack, President and CEO, AFOA Canada. “It will set them up for success in achieving their academic goals and chosen career path” 

Scholarships are available for First Nations, Métis and Inuit who are members / citizens of a First Nation, Métis or Inuit community. You must be a permanent resident of Canada and have applied for or are currently enrolled in a full-time, minimum 2-year program with an approved post-secondary institution in Canada. 

Applications will open Friday, November 18, 2022, at 4:30pm ET, and must be submitted by no later than January 16, 2023, at 5:00pm ET. For complete information about the program, please visit: www.afoa.ca/td. 

Background: 

AFOA Canada 

AFOA Canada, founded in 1999, strives towards their mandate to help Indigenous Peoples better manage and govern their communities and organizations through a focus on enhancing management, finance and 

governance practices and skills. It is the only organization in Canada that focuses on the capacity development and day-to-day needs of those Indigenous professionals who are working in all areas of management, finance, band administration, leadership, and program management—We are Building a Community of Professionals. 

TD Bank Group 

At TD, we recognize there is more work to be done on our collective journey towards Truth and Reconciliation. Supporting community initiatives that promote a connection to the land, enhance financial education, and foster a sense of belonging is important. We believe society is stronger when we work together and that we can help be a catalyst for dialogue to bring people, communities, and cultures together. 

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In short, a co-op is a co-operatively owned and democratically controlled business that strikes a balance between profit and supporting members and community as a whole. And that’s just the first way Peninsula Co-op backs up every community you can find them in.

https://youtu.be/z1QyC0rKsgA

Co-operatives have been around for a long time, but over the past few years they have
been gaining attention due to their ethical and sustainable approach to doing business.
Peninsula Co-op considers how they affect communities on a social level, and how they can have a positive impact.

https://youtu.be/T1094JKcGSY

Equal Say for Every Member

Anyone can become a part of Peninsula Co-op! No matter where you live, what you do for work, or where your family is from; every member has an equal say and every vote matters. Member-owners vote for a co-op’s board of directors, and unlike many businesses, each member has an equal share in the company.

Peninsula Co-op is 100% locally-owned by our members and keep all of our profits right
here, in our community. Every year, Peninsula Co-op gives half a million dollars to
charities, community groups and projects that make a difference in the lives of
Islanders like you.

https://youtu.be/xc_1l31tTJI

Make Your Money Back

One of the best reasons to be a Peninsula Co-op member – The annual rebate! Every
year members earn a cash rebate that can help offset fuel or other purchases. That means
you’re earning money on the things you would be spending money on anyways. Most
people earn back the one time 27-dollar membership fee in the first few months! Once
you’re a member - that’s it! No annual fees, or hidden costs, and tons of ways to benefit.

https://youtu.be/R4XvDkiOYsQ

The more you choose Peninsula Co-op, the more they can invest in our community and
return profits to their members. Not a member? Join today at www.peninsulaco-op.com.

Website: www.peninsulaco-op.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pencoop

The post What is a Co-op? appeared first on My Comox Valley Now.

The rumble of a Motorcycle creates images of surly men and women that cause some people anxiety. But when vulnerable kids see the bikers from Bikers Against Child Abuse®, they only see friends. And feel courageous. Emboldened. Safe!

Bikers Against Child Abuse, or B.A.C.A.®, is an organization stretching across North America and overseas; dedicated to helping children who have faced trauma and abuse no child deserves to go through. The brothers and sisters of B.A.C.A.® work with Provincial officials, but first and foremost, their only priority are the children themselves.

Their Mission Statement makes it clear how seriously they take their responsibility:

“Bikers Against Child Abuse, Inc. (B.A.C.A. ®) exists with the intent to create a safer environment for abused children. We exist as a body of Bikers to empower children to not feel afraid of the world in which they live. We stand ready to lend support to our wounded friends by involving them with an established, united organization. We work in conjunction with local and state officials who are already in place to protect children. We desire to send a clear message to all involved with the abused child that this child is part of our organization, and that we are prepared to lend our physical and emotional support to them by affiliation, and our physical presence. We stand at the ready to shield these children from further abuse. We do not condone the use of violence or physical force in any manner, however, if circumstances arise such that we are the only obstacle preventing a child from further abuse, we stand ready to be that obstacle.”

https://youtu.be/XDOwg6L6YXE

B.A.C.A.® was founded by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who was a Registered Play Therapist. He was in practice for over twenty years, most of which was spent in the treatment of abused children. He became keenly aware that while the system was able to offer much in the way of helping children to heal, there were gaps that needed to be filled.

Starting with a single chapter in Utah, B.A.C.A.® today has chapters worldwide and continues to grow!

With growth B.A.C.A.® knew they had to create a network stronger than steel. Their membership process is stringent and ensures that every brother and sister is dedicated and ready to rise to the call. It all starts with someone attending a general meeting at their nearest B.A.C.A.® chapter. Potential supporters must be 18 years old and have access to a motorcycle. They are expected to continue to attend events and meetings through the year. After three meetings a vote is held by the Chapter. The vote must be unanimous and if so, triggers a criminal record check to ensure no history of child or domestic abuse. Once cleared the supporter will receive their road name and supporter patches. From there a rigorous 16 months of trailing begins (off and on the road) in order to become a patched member and, ultimately, to become a Primary to a child.

B.A.C.A.® Has two Levels of Intervention.
During a Level 1, B.A.C.A.® will ride out with as many bikes as possible to the child’s home or a secured location where they meet with the child and parents and/or guardians. During the ceremony the child is presented with their own biker vest patched with a road name they choose and a teddy bear that is hugged by each B.A.C.A.® attendee and is filled with positive energy and empowerment. The child will be given two Primaries. Primaries are available to the children 24/7, 365 days a year; starting the path to empowerment.

A Level 2 intervention is used when there has been a threat or contact made by the abuser and the child is fearful. B.A.C.A.® will guard the home 24/7 until the threat is no longer present. Their visible presence helps reinforce to the child that they are not alone during their most vulnerable times.

B.A.C.A.® will also escort the child to court when needed. It has been proven that B.A.C.A.® children are 4 times more likely to testify on the stand.

https://youtu.be/ydP9iY9nAek

Bikers Against Child Abuse® is helping children overcome abuse and trauma by bringing them into our organization and making sure they know they’re not alone. We will always act as the obstacle between children and their abusers. B.A.C.A.® is a non-profit organization and no B.A.C.A.® member is ever paid. Watching a scared child become empowered and stop living in fear is all the payday B.A.C.A.® members need. If you know someone who needs B.A.C.A.’s help, or you’re interested in becoming part of this incredible family, reach out to the Chapters we have in B.C.

Victoria Chapter : info@vi-can.bacaworld.org

Mid Vancouver Island Chapter : info@mv-can.bacaworld.org

Fraser Valley Chapter : info@fv-can.bacaworld.org

Greater Vancouver Chapter : info@gv-can.bacaworld.org

Kamloops Chapter: info@ka-can.bacaworld.org

North Caribou Chapter: info@nc-can.bacaworld.org

Website: www.bacaworld.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BikersAgainstChildAbuseInternational

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Does your child, tween, or teen have an interest in the stage, or big screen? Do they need a space to explore their emotions? Tulloch Academy is hosting a summer sampler of their Acting, Musical Theatre and Voice Work program in Cumberland so your child can find the right fit for them!

And You Thought It Was Just Acting Out!

More often than not, disruptive behaviour in youth is because they have more energy and emotions than they know how to deal with. Acting up is a way for them to deal with that energy and test their ever-evolving world. Tulloch Academy takes great pride in teaching the tools to not only curb those behaviours, but actively encourages healthy ways of exploring and interacting with the world and people around them.

If you know a child, tween, or teen that needs a little encouragement coming out of their shell; Tulloch Academy has been building confidence since the day they opened their doors. The summer sampler is the perfect opportunity for your wall flower to explore new opportunities, and find new passions, that can help them become the Center of Attention you know they deserve to be! From giving them the courage to belt out a song on stage, to sharing their ideas openly with their peers without anxiety.

They Might Be Called Classes, But They’re So Much More!

During the Summer Sampler, you can visit the Cumberland Studio Location and explore the opportunities and programs that may be right for your children. They can explore dancing and acting so everyone gets to find out where their passions lie. Every Sampler Session is three hours 12 to 3, and there are three sessions available: June 4th for 6-to-8-year-olds. June 11th for 9- to 12-year-old. And June 18th for Teens.

But the Summer Sampler is just a taste of the experience you can give your child at Tulloch Academy!

Their Acting classes focus on articulation, projection, body language, how to create a character, and much more to become an effective stage actor. But more than that, it also teaches patience, better communication, how to respect your peers, and how to help them when it’s needed.

Give your child of any age the tools to work off any extra energy, and a new way to express themselves! Tulloch Academy's Musical Theatre Program gives every student the chance to sing, dance, and tell their own story through movement. Exploring storytelling through body language, and healthy ways to express intense emotions for all kinds.

With Tulloch Academy’s Voice Over Technique program, your child will learn all the best practices to become a voice actor for Commercials, Audio Books, Gaming, Animation and all the other burgeoning opportunities. Learn how to prepare and audition the voice NOT the character, and how to enhance their voice for any public speaking.

Fall programs are year long including a production to shine light on all the skills your fledgling actor, dancer, or singer has learned throughout the year. Taking great pride in their productions, Tulloch Academy will often tailor a classic tale to be more relevant in today's environment, continuously striving to be more culturally conscious, and representative. That includes working with local community and cultural leaders.

Not Just Unique Classes! Unique Teaching Too!

To say that every student who enrolls at Tulloch Academy learns a lot more than how to project, emote, and dance is not an understatement. While the focus is on stage and acting skills; there are so many life lessons to take a way from their unique approach to teaching your kids.

Getting on stage with an audience can be a nerve-wracking experience. So many eyes on you… nerves start to kick in. Then the mistake happens! It rings through your ears as you try to get back on track, but you’re sure everyone is judging you for saying Right instead of Left. That’s the feeling Tulloch Academy looks to overcome in every program.

Mandy Tulloch has a unique approach to teaching, and it starts with listening. Whether her student is a 6-year-old struggling to find the right words to explain how they’re feeling, or a teen not participating; Mandy’s approach equips them with a unique set of tools to help them.

Maybe it’s talking with them in a one-on-one setting about what’s keeping your child from giving their all. Or working with them to understand what they’re feeling and helping them express it, Mandy doesn’t just teach how to put on a good show, there are life skills that go far beyond the stage. So, no matter if they continue onto Broadway or take on a new challenge in a few years, Mandy wants to make sure everyone benefits when they attend Tulloch Academy.

Enrolling at Tulloch Academy

Let your children, of any age, flex their creative muscles in an all new way! Tulloch Academy is offering a Summer Sampler that includes Acting, Musical Theatre, some dance, and Voice Coaching. Then you can enroll them into the full year program designed to further their skills, and give life long skills that can be taken off the stage and away from the camera.

Find more information, and register, at www.TullochAcademy.com!

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Karen Phytoplankton - Inspired by his Family, Created for yours

Karen Hunter lived a life caring about others - that’s why her son, Dave Hunter, named his business after her. Karen Phytoplankton was a long time in the works for Dave.

After working several professions including cutting shingles on Vancouver Island, pulling wrenches as a mechanic, and founding a bottled water company, Dave was looking for a new challenge. 

While attending a trade-show Dave was introduced to a billion year old plant - marine phytoplankton. Dave learned that phytoplankton grows when the earth’s oceans absorb sunlight and create a “garden” of phytoplankton blooms that are the nutrition source for all life on the planet. For example, fish are not the source for omega-3 fatty oils, the phytoplankton at the bottom of the food chain is! Phytoplankton is so essential to the planet that NASA has said our planet could not survive without it. Phytoplankton not only provides the base nutrition to the food chain, but it recycles 60% of the earth’s carbon dioxide into clean oxygen – more than all the rainforests combined! 

Dave was shocked to learn this microscopic plant was so important! At the time, phytoplankton was used to help keep fish tanks full of oxygen and nutrition, but Dave wondered what would happen if he ate a scoop of the phytoplankton, going straight to the source for nutrition.

This led to a profound discovery when the next day Dave noticed personal health 
improvements. Experimenting more, Dave continued to eat the phytoplankton daily and
continued to see his health improve. He felt sharing this discovery with Canadians was
his new life mission.

What followed was the beginning of an almost 20-year journey. Dave first moved his
young family to a small town in New Brunswick called Sackville, where he could focus on
building his phytoplankton business. After years of working with the top
phytoplankton growers in the world and Health Canada, Dave decided to name his marine
phytoplankton supplement after his late mom, Karen. It was an overnight success and
quickly grew to become a national brand for good health. 

Thousands of Canadians have now fallen in love with Karen Phytoplankton. It’s not just nutritious, it is nutrition. Many of daily discomforts we experience are the result of malnourishment: If you crash in the afternoon, have digestive issues, regularly have headaches, trouble sleeping, joint or muscle pain, trouble concentrating or more – it may just be your body experiencing a lack of one of the essential vitamins or minerals we call nutrition. Earth’s original source of nutrition, Karen Phytoplankton is now available at the island’s Costco’s, Shoppers, Rexall’s and online at www.thekarenproject.ca. 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/karenphytoplankton/

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Inn at Laurel Point – Reopening Has Never Been So Grand!

There’s a certain feeling that takes hold the moment you arrive to Inn at Laurel Point. Their recent multi-million dollar renewal joins the Erickson and Laurel Wing bringing the hotel into a new era of modern luxury. The entire transformation of the lobby, ground floor event space and Aura Restaurant infuses modern, warm, relaxed and a serene design inspired by the area’s natural beauty.

Beautiful Views in The Middle of a Beautiful City

Inn at Laurel Point calls downtown Victoria home for a good reason. As one of Canada’s most beautiful cities, Victoria offers a luxurious, world class escape, and provides adventure, natural beauty and exploration for all to enjoy. Inn at Laurel Point embraces the beauty of Victoria and Vancouver Island as a whole.

The Inn’s two wings balance clean, classic design elements with a modern style that steeps guests in tranquility from the moment they arrive to long after they’ve left.  The Laurel Wing, the Inn’s original, offers rooms and suites that blend cozy traditional style with comfy practicality and the Erickson Wing, completed in 1989, offers spacious suites that make for a serene getaway just a stone’s throw from the city centre’s hustle and bustle.

Inn at Laurel Point offers 128 guest rooms, 51 studios, 17 suites, and one magnificent 1,106 Square foot panoramic penthouse suite. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable place to recover from an exhilarating day of adventuring, or want to be pampered from the moment you wake up, Inn at Laurel Point has the perfect guestroom for your stay. Including pet friendly rooms!

The Arsens, the original founders of Inn at Laurel Point, had a passion for local First Nations and Pacific Rim inspired works and artifacts. The Arsens Collection is displayed in guestroom hallways and in public spaces for guests. This work gives a glimpse at some of the history and culture of Vancouver Island Indigenous Peoples and the relationship the Arsens had with local artists.

Meet and Celebrate!

Inn at Laurel Point takes pride in ensuring guests have a wonderful and memorable stay, and that’s especially true for celebrations! As one of Victoria’s premiere wedding venues, Inn at Laurel Point offers three distinct packages – Iconic, Lux, and I Do for Two. Whether you’re keeping it simple with a guest list of 2 guests or inviting 200 of your nearest and dearest, Inn at Laurel Point is the perfect setting for a unique wedding.

Impress bosses, potential clients, and strategic partners with the newly added Hunt, MacKenzie, and Martin meeting rooms. With 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space, you can host a meeting with your team, or the whole company! Tons of natural light, and fresh ocean air makes Inn at Laurel Point a completely unique meeting space. Conference rooms range in capacity from 2 to 200 guests.

Health, Wellness, and The Inn at Laurel Point

Don’t interrupt your health routine with the brightly lit, glass encased compact pool, or the Fitness Studio! They have everything you’ll need for a good workout and offer cardio machines and free weights. Or maximize your workout time with some sightseeing on the side and get outdoors for a walk or run. And the newly redesigned gardens offer serenity and the perfect place to rejuvenate mind and spirit.

Satisfied Senses

Aura Waterfront Restaurant + Patio is open with the same incredible views and intimate atmosphere, but a whole new menu! With a revitalized interior, Aura Restaurant has become a beacon for foodies, and those who love a great night out. Embracing Victoria’s vibrant food scene, Aura’s small plate menu is globally inspired and locally sourced, often from just around the corner. Incredible flavours, and views are on the menu every day at Aura Waterfront Restaurant + Patio.

The Inn at Laurel Point – A Social Enterprise

As a proud Social Enterprise since 2008, Inn at Laurel Point is dedicated to making improvements to the hotel in the safest and wisest ways possible. That means prioritizing the social, financial, and environmental well being of the community. This dedication is what led Inn at Laurel Point to be the first carbon neutral hotel in BC.

With Inn at Laurel Point successfully completing the Renewal Project, the Arsen’s original vision for the hotel has been completed. Both the Erickson and Laurel wings have been connected, with a welcoming lobby and entryway welcoming you into a truly unique hotel in the heart of Victoria.

Explore the newly redesigned and reopened Inn at Laurel Point - Located at the end of Montreal Street on the edge of the Inner Harbour. If travelling from Vancouver Island, you will travel down Highway 1 until you reach Douglas Street. Continue on Douglas St as it will become Belleville Street. Travel past the BC Legislature building, the road will turn to the left, then after a park on your right, turn right onto Montreal Street. You will see the sign for Inn at Laurel Point at 680 Montreal Street.

Visit Laurelpoint.com to book now.

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