Pack your bags! Autumn in the Comox Valley has it all - Pacific Coastal Airlines
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Inflight
Magazine for
Pacific Coastal
Airlines
Pack your
bags!
Autumn in the
Comox Valley has it all
SAVOUR THE
FLAVOUR
Thompson Valley
wine region
HIDDEN TREASURES
A Powell River artist hides a
trail of raku pottery
September/October
July/August | Volume| Volume 15 | Number
15 | Number 4 5
Your
ED HANDJA
& SHELLEY MCKAY
Personal Real Estate Corporation
BC Oceanfront Real Estate Team
Personal Real Estate Corporation
Specializing in Unique Coastal Real Estate in British Columbia
Ed 250.287.0011 • Shelley 250.830.4435
Office 250.286.3293 Toll Free 1.888.286.1932
edhandja@bcoceanfront.com
Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com • Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com
shelleymckay@bcoceanfront.com
Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com • Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com
Zeballos, Vancouver Island: 14 room motel with commercial kitchen, restaurant space, one bedroom owner/manager’s suite and management office.
Separate laundry facilities. Guest rooms each have a 3 piece bathroom and come furnished with two beds, microwave and mini-fridge. High demand for long-
term and short-term rental accommodations in the area, or use for commercial crews. $629,000
West Coast Vancouver Island: 1920sqft residence in Haggard Cove, part of a water access residential coastal vacation community at the entrance to Alberni Inlet,
Barkley Sound, Broken Islands Group and the open Pacific. Community has a substantial marina in a protected location. The home, which overlooks the marina, is
a great layout for a large family/group. $490,000
Cortes Island Oceanfront Residence: 2.1 with 268ft of walk-on oceanfront in Gorge Harbour. Welcoming modern 2256sqft home with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms,
open concept kitchen and living space. Lots of appealing features. Expansive partially covered deck overlooking the gardens and ocean. 19x26ft shop with power. A
beautiful and well kept oceanfront island home and property. $1,200,000
The BC Oceanfront Real Estate Team offers over 40 years of
combined experience in recreational and remote real estate.
If you are looking to buy or sell that special property on the BC coast, give us a call!
w w w. b c o c e a n f r o n t . c o m
September/October 2021 | 2 | pacificcoastal.com
Cover: By Jordan Dyck, courtesy Discover Comox Valley and Tourism Vancouver Island.
CONTENTS
Features Departments
9 PACK YOUR BAGS! 20 WILLIAMS LAKE WELCOME 4 UP FRONT
Autumn in the Comox Valley A nurse's 1960s adventure President’s Message
14 HOPE MEETS ACTION 5 AROUND BC
23 RAPTORS UP CLOSE
Black history exhibit News from Pacific Coastal
Birds of prey in Cowichan
16 SAVOUR THE FLAVOUR
Airlines' destinations
Thompson Valley wine region 27 HIDDEN TREASURES 6 MEET A PCA EMPLOYEE
Artist hides raku pottery
Group Publisher Penny Sakamoto, psakamoto@blackpress.ca - 250.480.3204 Advertising Patty Doering, pdoering@vicnews.com - 250.480.3244 • Ruby Della Siega, ruby@mondaymag.com - 250.480.3222
Managing Editor Susan Lundy, lundys@shaw.ca Natasha Griffiths, natasha.griffiths@northislandgazette.com - 250.902.8040
Creative Director Lily Chan | Graphic Design Janice Marshall, Michelle Gjerde Annemarie Rindt, arindt@blackpress.ca - 250.480.3244 • Mario Gedicke, mario.gedicke@blackpress.ca - 250.891.5627
Published by Black Press | www.blackpress.ca • 818 Broughton Street , Victoria, BC V8W 1E4
SOAR magazine is published six times per year and is distributed on all Pacific Coastal Airlines flights. The points of view or opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views
of the publisher or Pacific Coastal Airlines. The contents of SOAR magazine are protected by copyright, including the designed advertising. Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher.
Black Press Media Brand Assets Guide
INTERNAL DOCUMENT Version 1.0 - May 2018
Love
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https://www.naivictoria.ca 1475 Cedar Avenue, Trail, BC
September/October 2021 | 3 | pacificcoastal.com
LOOKING
AHEAD
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
N
ew service, flexible tickets—and impact of COVID-19, we are still only operat-
continued patience! ing at approximately 60 to 65 per cent of our
As we head into fall and look previous levels. You have only to note the re-
back on the summer months, we introduction of COVID-19 protocols to appre-
are excited to see that travel is slowly coming ciate that this is not over, nor is the powerful
back and that our flights are filling up with effect that it has had and continues to have
more passengers every day. on businesses and the aviation industry.
After a 503-day hiatus, we relaunched We remain committed to our customers
scheduled service to the community of Bella and we will continue to offer a schedule that
Bella (ZEL) on August 10. The response has supports the communities that we serve. At
certainly been stronger than anticipated. the peak of our 2021 fall and winter schedule,
We are currently offering Sunday to Friday we plan to be offering 282 flights throughout
service between Vancouver and Bella Bella our network each week. We continue to offer
on our Beechcraft 1900, and with the high our flexible change policy to provide our
demand for this service, we will begin to customers the freedom to make unlimited
operate flights on Monday, Wednesday and changes to new reservations. For more details,
Friday using our Saab 340, starting the week please visit our website pacificcoastal.com/
of September 26. unlimited-ticket-changes/.
Although we experienced an increase Thank you again to our customers, part-
in travel demand, we were able to respond ners and staff for your continued patience
operationally and are proud to be recognized and understanding as we continue to navi-
as North America’s most punctual airline in gate the challenges of COVID-19. We appreci-
July (on-time arrival means landing at the ate your support and for choosing to fly with
destination within 15 minutes of the sched- Pacific Coastal Airlines.
uled time).
As much as there have been many posi-
tive steps forward in the recovery from the
Quentin Smith
September/October 2021 | 4 | pacificcoastal.com
AROUND BC
with few intact swaths of open plains
PCA service between Vancouver remaining.
Located some three kilometres north-
and Bella Bella returns west of the community of Willowbrook
within the Regional District of Okanagan-
Similkameen, the Park Rill Floodplain
property supports many species of con-
servation concern and provides critical
habitat for federally listed species at risk,
including Lewis’s woodpeckers, peregrine
falcons and western screech-owls.
“The diversity of species and habitats
protected by this project exemplifies
the importance of the native grasslands
within the South Okanagan," said Dan
Buffett, CEO of the Habitat Conservation
Trust Foundation. “The Nature Trust of BC
has a sterling track record for protecting,
managing and restoring these and other
critical habitat types in BC.”
He added: “For that reason, the
Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation
of our flights between these two airports is a proud funding partner of the Nature
RICHMOND: Pacific Coastal Trust and of our shared goals of con-
run as “triangles,” where the route runs
Airlines resumed its non-stop service serving fish, wildlife and their habitats
between Vancouver, Campbell River,
between Vancouver International Air- through the protection and conserva-
Comox and then back to Vancouver. PCA
port South Terminal (YVR) and Bella tion of BC’s natural landscapes.”
notes that having the non-stop flights
Bella Airport (ZEL) on August 10. The Nature Trust expressed its thanks
will be an improved service offering to
“Over the past 16 months we have to landowners and conservationists Ray
customers.
been working closely with the Heilt- and Jennifer Stewart, who have cared for
suk Nation operating charter flights
to support their essential service
travel requirements,” said Quentin
151 acres of the land for 33 years.
The project was undertaken with
biodiverse South
the financial support of Environment
Smith, president of Pacific Coastal and Climate Change Canada, Habitat
Airlines. “I am excited that we have Conservation Trust Foundation, George
received approval from the Heiltsuk
Nation to resume our scheduled Okanagan land Galbraith and Family, Val and Dick Brad-
shaw and many individual donors.
flight service and we are looking for-
ward to supporting the community donated to
Nature Trust of BC
of Bella Bella again.”
“The pandemic has seen many
travel restrictions in place for our
health and safety. We are pleased to By Monique Tamminga,
westcoasttraveller.com
see commercial flight services back
to our community, now that it is SOUTH OKANAGAN: Nature Trust
safe,” said Chief Marilyn Slett, Heiltsuk of BC has announced that—through
Nation. the generosity of donors—151 acres (61
Non-stop flight service will oper- hectares) of land, known as the Park Rill
ate on a Beechcraft 1900D between Floodplain, will be added to the White
Vancouver and Bella Bella six days a Lake Basin Biodiversity Ranch complex in
week. The 1900D offers comfortable the South Okanagan.
seating, six-foot cabin height, and The native grasslands of the South
generous cargo capacity. Okanagan are a hot-spot for biodiversity,
Also, in PCA news, a schedule hosting numerous at-risk species.
Wildflowers, rare grasslands and at-risk
change slated for September 26 Grasslands are also one of the rarest species are part of the rich landscape of
will add non-stop service between land cover types in BC, covering less than the Park Rill Floodplain. (Graham Osborne
Vancouver and Comox. Currently all one per cent of the province’s land base, photo)
September/October 2021 | 5 | pacificcoastal.com
MEET A Vancouver Aquarium
PACIFIC COASTAL
EMPLOYEE:
reopens after near
DEENA year-long closure
By Katya Slepian, westcoastraveller.com
VANCOUVER: The Vancouver
Aquarium has reopened after a COVID-
related closure shuttered its doors for
nearly a year.
Destination Greater Victoria has used Stats
The aquarium said in a release that Canada data to confirm Victoria as the
it is also launching a Marine Mammal Canadian city with the most restaurants,
Rescue Exhibit to showcase the facility’s eateries, pubs and bars per capita. (Black
work in rehabilitating marine mammals. Press Media file photo)
The 65-year-old aquarium was sold
by Ocean Wise Conservation Associa- Statistics Canada data shows the
tion to Herschend Enterprises in a deal city of Victoria to have 4.6 restaurants,
announced last April. At the time, the eateries, pubs and bars for every
Position: Customer Service Agent aquarium said the only way for it survive 1,000 residents, with Vancouver and
Location: Cranbrook was to be taken over by Herschend, a Niagara Falls next in line at 3.6 and
Vancouver Airport Operations 3.4, respectively. All other Canadian
US-based theme park company that
Time with PASCO: 3.5 years cities measured have less than 2.8
owns properties like Dollywood, mul-
tiple resorts and two aquariums. such businesses per 1,000 residents.
Job description: “We are very delighted to be reopen- “It is a claim to fame and we are
I am a Customer Service Agent working
ing. The Vancouver Aquarium has been proud of it, but it’s also great being
in Cranbrook BC. In Cranbrook we are a able to back up our claims,” Des-
dual base, offering flights to YVR via Pacific one of the top attractions in this region
Coastal Airlines and to both YVR and YYC and a leader in marine mammal rescue tination Greater Victoria CEO Paul
via Westjet Link. I am also the base trainer for over 60 years,” said aquarium execu- Nursey told Black Press Media.
for both Westjet Link and Pacific Coastal Data on restaurants, eateries,
Airlines. tive director Clint Wright. “Everyone at
the aquarium has been working hard pubs and bars comes from Stats
Where were you born and where did Canada’s June 2020 Canadian Busi-
you grow up? to prepare for this reopening after 17
months of partial or complete closure.” ness Counts, while population num-
I was born in Penticton, but was raised all
over BC. I spent 25 years in Williams Lake, Along with the new exhibit, the bers come from 2016 Census data.
before moving to Kimberley five years ago. aquarium will be showing Octopus from Nursey, who has a background in
Who is your family? the BBC series Blue Planet II. economics, said he spent the “dark
My husband Glen and I celebrated our Existing memberships will be days of the pandemic” fact-checking
25th wedding anniversary in Febru- claims with a pair of researchers to
ary 2021. Our daughter, Kyleigh, lives in extended to make up for the months
when the aquarium was closed. Due to verify the assertion that Victoria is
Kelowna and our son, Rylen, lives in Cal-
gary. We also have a new addition, Shyla, COVID-19 safety measures, capacity will Canada’s leader in food and drink
our six-month-old puppy.
be limited and tickets and reservations destinations per capita.
What path did you take to get to can be made online at vanaqua.org. Mayor Lisa Helps wasn’t surprised
this job? Masks are recommended for everyone that Victoria leads the country in
My very dear friend Monica worked for restaurants per capita, she said,
PCA in Williams Lake and loved her Pacific ages 12 and up who has not yet been
Coastal family. When I relocated to Kim- fully vaccinated. considering not just the quantity
berley and a job opening came up at the of restaurants but also the quality,
Cranbrook airport, I knew immediately the variety and diversity offered.
job was for me. Sadly, Monica passed away
that same year.
Victoria leads “The food and drink options in
What do you like best about this Canadian cities in Victoria are endless,” added BC Res-
taurant and Food Services Associa-
restaurants, pubs,
job?
I love that every day is different. There is tion chair Peter de Bruyn in a state-
always something to learn. ment. “There is always something
Hobbies? bars per capita new on the menu and a reason to
I am an avid downhill skier, enjoy both try a new establishment.”
cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, as VICTORIA: Victoria is the Canadian For more information on Victo-
well as summer hiking, running, paddle ria’s food and drink scene, visit tour-
boarding, kayaking and golf. I had my first
city with the most restaurants, eateries,
Eagle this year! I also learned how to knit pubs and bars per person, according to ismvictoria.com/eat-drink.
socks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Destination Greater Victoria.
September/October 2021 | 6 | pacificcoastal.com
September/October 2021 | 7 | pacificcoastal.com
Pack your
bags!
Autumn in
the Comox Valley
has it all
Photos by Jordan Dyck, ,courtesy
Discover Comox Valley and Tourism
Vancouver Island.
September/October 2021 | 8 | pacificcoastal.com
P
lanning a trip during the The temperature is perfect, the Nestled in the foothills of the
crisp, less-crowded season leaves are changing and the views of Beaufort Mountains, Cumberland is
of fall unveils one of the best the majestic mountains and tree-lined the epicentre of mountain biking on
times for hiking, biking and paths are clear. Vancouver Island. With more than 80
other outdoor pursuits, including all the From intense multi-day hikes to kilometres of the island’s most leg-
flavours of the fall harvest. leisurely walks, there is something for endary singletrack, it’s a great place
As the heat of the summer all skill levels. for seasoned riders and newcomers to
season subsides and the crowds Some of our favourites include: Para- the sport.
decrease, it’s the perfect time to visit dise Meadows in Strathcona Provincial Opt for a guided tour with Island
the Comox Valley. Park, Seal Bay Regional Nature Park, Joy Rides, where you can cruise the
Here’s our guide to enjoying the Nymph Falls Nature Park, Cumberland scenic coastal routes that take you
fall season before winter sets in. Community Forest and the Courtenay through communities, near waterfalls
Airpark. and even to nearby islands.
Hike
Or choose a self-guided adventure
Whether you choose to head up Bike in farm country along the One Spot
to Mount Washington or to flock Make the most of this transitional Trail. This trail has three separate com-
to nearby parks and waterfront season from your bike! Whether you’re pleted sections, taking you along the
pathways, you’ll be a short drive a road cyclist, a gravel rider, a mountain former railway grade of the Comox
from some of the best trails that the biker or all of the above, you’ll be well Logging & Railway Company.
Comox Valley has to offer. covered here.
September/October 2021 | 9 | pacificcoastal.com
As the heat of the
summer season subsides
and the crowds decrease,
it’s the perfect time to
visit the Comox Valley.
Comox Valley Kayaks & Canoes
carries various kayaks, canoes, stand-
up paddle boards and gear to rent,
or you can sign up for a guided tour.
Fish
Enjoy spectacular freshwater and
saltwater fishing paired with incred-
ible scenery!
Hire a professional, fully certified
guide to help you throw in a line
for various fish species, as well as
shellfish like crab and prawns.
Expect to encounter views of
coastal mountains, wildlife, sweep-
ing seascapes and a tug on the line
during your time on the water.
Family fun
The fall is a great time to travel with
the kids: autumn-themed activities,
fewer crowds and a chill in the air
make the season magical.
Enjoy a hayride, visit barnyard
animals, find your way out of corn
Golf lenge and reward for all levels.
Mulligans Golf Course is in superb and hay bale mazes, play fall games
Don’t put away your clubs just be-
condition year-round, and the course, and pick a pumpkin from the 20
cause summer’s gone!
which provides a challenge for golf- acres of fields at Coastal Black’s 9th
The Comox Valley and surround-
ers of all calibres, is known as “The Annual Pumpkin Fall Fest.
ing areas have nine golf courses, six
Friendliest Little Course In The Valley.” Shamrock Farm has a vast assort-
of which are open year-round.
ment of pumpkins to pick off the
Play a round at the award-win- Paddle vine, or collect one that's already
ning, platinum-rated golf course at Some of the most serene paddling picked and waiting in the barn for
Crown Isle Resort; extend your visit conditions can be found throughout carving and cooking.
by staying on site in one of their villas the fall in the Comox Valley. Don’t leave without picking
located along the fairway. If you’re a passionate sea kayaker, up Comox’s own Benino Gelato’s
The Comox Golf Club is a champi- a complete beginner or if you’re look- pumpkin pie gelato made with
onship nine-hole golf course located ing for a unique, multi-day adventure, Shamrock Farm’s pumpkins!
in the heart of Comox and is open discover the range of water trails with Fall is also a glorious time of year
year-round with beautifully main- a friend or go with a guide! for horseback riding. Bear Creek
tained greens, offering both chal-
September/October 2021 | 10 | pacificcoastal.comThe ultimate getaway, or your everyday. | It’s your move.
PGA of BC Golf Facility of the Year 2020
Full Service Resort & Community in the heart of the Comox Valley
Restaurant and Conference Services
Host facility of the Mackenzie Tour - PGA TOUR Canada Qualifying School
THE NEXT STEP IN THE
EVOLUTION OF CROWN ISLE.
New home building lots are available from $425,000
FOR MORE INFO, CONTACTJason Andrew, Director of Real Estate
RealEstate@CrownIsle.com | 250-207-0070
Come for a tee time, stay for a lifetime.
CrownIsle.com
September/October 2021 | 11 | pacificcoastal.comRanch offers rides to suit all needs, locally produced food items and a variety Where to eat and drink
from half-hour excursions to full days of meats. Savour the selection of the valley’s
on nearby trails, which lead to the Arrive hungry: treats like fresh baked many great food offerings, available
area’s hills, rivers and lakes. goods and warm drinks await you. everywhere from food trucks to fine-
Disc golf (also known as frisbee The vendors move indoors to the dining restaurants.
golf ) is an outdoor sport involving Native Sons Hall at 360 Cliffe Avenue in Warm up with a bowl of authentic
throwing plastic discs into metal Courtenay between October and April. Japanese ramen at Nikkei Ramen-
baskets along an outdoor course, and ya, feast on superb ingredients at Il
Where to stay
it is a great way to include the family Falcone, which is a favourite among
on a walk through the forest. During autumn, you can often find lower
locals and visitors, taste bold wines
There are four disc golf travel rates than during the peak
at 40 Knots Winery or savour award-
courses to choose season.
winning dishes at the Tidal Cafe.
from, including Vil- Consider a stay in a glam-
Still have room on your “to-do”
lage Park Disc Golf ping tent on the 90-acre
list? Pick up a famous cronut at
Course in Comox lakefront property at
Cumberland’s 100-plus-year-old
and the Coal Smith Lake Farm.
Village Bakery; treat yourself to a spa
Creek Historic Or, pamper yourself
treatment paired with a Pacific Mist
Park in Cumber- with a visit to the
Hydropath at Kingfisher Oceanside
land. Kingfisher Oceanside
Resort & Spa; get a head start on
Resort and Spa, where
Farmers' your holiday shopping by strolling
luxury and relaxation are
the main streets in Cumberland,
market top priorities.
Courtenay and Comox to find the
The Comox Valley The Old House Hotel &
perfect gifts; or relax at the Euro-
Farmers’ Market is a year- Spa could possibly be Vancouver
pean-style sauna house at The Lost
round gathering place that supports Island’s best-kept secret; the all-suite
Faucet.
a community of growers. hotel located just blocks from downtown
The Comox Valley hits all of the
What better season for home Courtenay has quick access to the airport.
highlights with outdoor activities,
cooks to perfect those hearty sea- Find rustic charm at The Alders Beach
wineries, shopping and mouthwater-
sonal dishes? Resort; it’s an ideal spot for couples or
ing cuisine—all that’s left to do is
At the market, you can pick up ev- families looking for a remote beach-front
pack your bags!
erything from fresh farm produce to escape.
September/October 2021 | 12 | pacificcoastal.comPLAN YOUR VISIT TO THE COMOX VALLEY
experiencecomoxvalley.ca/fall
Tumble into Fall
Plan your visit to the Comox Valley
www.experiencecomoxvalley.ca/fall
September/October 2021 | 13 | pacificcoastal.comVICTORIA
HOPE MEETS
ACTION
Royal British Columbia Musuem's pocket gallery
exhibit examines BC Black history
A
t a time when many British “We will extend and grow this Dr. Daniel Muzyka, acting CEO of the
Columbians are already re- legacy through resilience, hard work, Royal BC Museum. “Right now, many
examining the province’s history creativity and leadership, with the British Columbians are re-examining
and who gets to write it, the BC humbling acknowledgment that we the province’s history and challenging
Black History Awareness Society and Royal are not Indigenous of these lands.” its longstanding bias toward European
BC Museum have partnered to produce a The exhibition follows the seldom- settler history. We’re indebted to the
new pocket gallery exhibition that reclaims told stories of Black women such BC Black History Awareness Society for
and retells the complicated history of Black as Sylvia Stark, who was born an leading the way on this long-overdue
British Columbians. enslaved person in Missouri, taught retelling of Black history in BC.”
Hope Meets Action: Echoes Through herself to read by secretly listening Hope Meets Action was curated
the Black Continuum, which opened in to her master’s children’s lessons and and written by Josh Robertson and
mid-August and runs to March 2022, eventually became a pillar of the Black designed by Rodney Hazard.
traces an unbroken line of strength pioneer community on Salt Spring Is- Access to the Royal BC Museum’s
and resistance from the distant past land. Her daughter Emma Stark would Pocket Gallery, located in Clifford Carl
to the present and into the future by later become the first Black teacher on Hall on the main floor, is always free.
highlighting the contributions of Black Vancouver Island. Visit rbcm.ca/pocketgallery to learn
leaders, whose actions echo across It also features audio recordings more.
the centuries. of Black British Columbians calling The BC Black History Awareness
“With this exhibition, we not only in from around the province to lend Society has worked diligently for
want people to learn about the his- their voices to this history, and—with more than 25 years to keep BC’s Black
tory of Black settlers and their legacy, a focus on decolonization—artwork history from being erased. This exhibit
but we want people to know that by young Black artists speaking to the is an important step to recognize the
contemporary Blacks in BC are very history of the Hogan’s Alley commu- role Black history has played in the
proud of this legacy,” explains Silvia nity in Vancouver, BC. province by highlighting the past and
Mangue Alene, president of the BC “This pocket gallery marks an im- present contributions of BC’s Black
Black History Awareness Society. portant moment in time for BC,” says communities.
September/October 2021 | 14 | pacificcoastal.comSeptember/October 2021 | 15 | pacificcoastal.com
KAMLOOPS
Savour the flavour
The Terrace Restaurant at
Monte Creek Winery.
Thompson Valley wine region serves up
its own unique tastes
By Susan Lundy / Photos courtesy Tourism Kamloops
W
e are sitting at a picnic wines, from a crisp, sparkling rosé region in 2018, the Thompson Valley
table in a lush, grassy to the creamy Hands Up white and is home to one of the northernmost
setting at Monte Creek the winery’s signature blueberry vinifera growing areas. The most com-
Winery near Kamloops. wine. Like the wines at Harper’s Trail monly planted grapes in this region
Rows of vines climb the hill at our backs winery—our first stop in this Kam- are Riesling, Marquette, Maréchal
and, looking forward, we can see the loops-area wine tour—the reds are Foch and Chardonnay.
South Thompson River weaving its path delicious, but it’s the whites that truly In this wine region—nestled amid
through the valley. show off the region’s unique flavours. the North and South Thompson riv-
We have tasted a wealth of Recognized as an official wine ers—well-drained soils rich in mineral
September/October 2021 | 16 | pacificcoastal.com“[In this area], the rain shad-
ow of the high coastal moun-
tains, the semi-arid conditions
and diverse microclimates
provide many creative options
for our winemakers to shine.” Monte Creek Winery.
content have resulted in white wines mloops’ largest winery—features Sagewood on this tour, it’s high on
that are bright, crisp and aromatic, as seasonal al fresco patio dining at our to-do list for when we return.
well as fruit-forward reds. The flavours The Terrace Restaurant or at the On our wine tour, we were able to
are unique to this region and it’s easy (pet-friendly) picnic tables where we split our winery visits up and enjoy
to see the difference between wines sat. The menu is extensive and we sipping and savouring over a few
here and those in the nearby Okana- savoured the cuisine along with the days. But those who wish to do a
gan region. selection of wine samples. Ultimately, one-day tour have the opportunity
According to the Wines of BC we bought bottles of red and white, of embarking on the journey with
website: “On the edge of cool climate the blueberry wine and a haskap DiVine Tours. Specializing in groups of
viticulture, Thompson Valley winer- berry liquor. two to 22, the tour company is based
ies are pioneering an exciting new More purchases occurred the next out of Kamloops, but also provides
region and expanding the boundar- day, after sampling the vintages at wine and brew tours in the Shuswap,
ies of quality BC winemaking. [In this Privato Vineyard & Winery, which has Lake Country, Kelowna, Summerland
area], the rain shadow of the high a to-die-for selection of pinot noir and Naramata regions.
coastal mountains, the semi-arid and premium-quality, single-vineyard Cheers!
conditions and diverse microclimates Burgundy wines. This boutique win- The patio at Privato Vineyard & Winery.
provide many creative options for our ery, which crafts wine in
winemakers to shine.” small batches and distrib-
With four wineries covering six utes to a small selection
vineyards and 120 acres under vine, of restaurants and wine
the growing wine industry in the aficionados, is set on an
Thompson Valley is winning pro- eight-acre Christmas tree
vincial, national and international farm, and the patio—
awards. where we enjoyed a
At Harper’s Trail, located right on generously portioned
the banks of the South Thompson charcuterie plate—is set
River, we tasted the vintages of the ar- amid a lush garden set-
ea’s first winery (established in 2012), ting. A stop here should
seated on the patio, with hoodoos include a walk through
and rolling hills of sage and antelope the gardens and vines.
brush behind us. The wines were The fourth and final
all excellent, and we couldn’t resist winery in the Thompson
purchasing bottles of the sparkling Valley wine region is
Chardonnay and pinot noir. Sagewood, a family-
Back at Monte Creek, it was time owned-and-operated
to tuck into dinner. In addition to its boutique vineyard. While
excellent wine, Monte Creek—Ka- we ran out of time to visit
September/October 2021 | 17 | pacificcoastal.comWhich BC brewery offers
the best overall experience?
Just a few days left to vote
By Joe Wiebe, the BC Ale Trail
B
ritish Columbia’s craft breweries
have built an incredible reputa-
tion for their ability to create an
amazing experience for visitors—
award-winning beers in infinite varieties
alongside delicious food, served by proud
staff who are the backbone of this warm
community. Combined with the unique,
modern, classic and eclectic designs of tap
rooms across the province, they provide
customers with a lasting impression.
Three years ago, the BC Ale Trail
launched the Best Brewery Experi-
ence Award. There are many ways
that breweries provide an exceptional
experience besides just making great
beer. For instance, the inaugural
winner, Townsite Brewing in Powell
River, installed an artisanal museum
space called an Économusée within
its brewery, which itself is located in a
gorgeous historic building.
The 2019 winner, Land & Sea
Brewing in Comox, was lauded for its
open-concept tasting room, where
customers can see the brewer in ac- Townsite Brewing in Powell River
tion while they sample the beers and was the inaugural winner of the Best Brewery Experience award
enjoy delicious food featuring local
ingredients prominently. into a prize draw. Two lucky vot- What is the BC Ale Trail?
Last year, it was Port Alberni’s Twin ers will win a Grand Prize Weekend The BC Ale Trail is a series of
City Brewing that won the award both in Victoria, including round-trip self-guided itineraries highlighting
for the quality of its beer and food, and transportation from Vancouver via local craft brewery destinations and
for the way it adapted to the pandem- Helijet, overnight accommodation, a the super, natural landscapes that
ic with an eye to both its employees $100 gift certificate to the brewery of surround them. Within each Ale Trail,
and its customers. their choice and a BC Ale Trail swag you will find recommended itinerar-
Which brewery do you think should pack valued at $200. Plus, five ad- ies to explore the respective destina-
win the 2021 Best Brewery Experience ditional lucky voters will win a $100 tion—this includes an array of craft
Award? gift certificate to the BC brewery of breweries, pubs, restaurants, cafes,
This year the BC Ale Trail has their choice and a BC Ale Trail deluxe liquor stores, outdoor activities, sight-
teamed up with West Coast Traveller to swag pack. seeing, accommodations and more.
encourage BC residents to think about To vote for the brewery you think Ale Trail itineraries are not gospel;
what they love about their local brew- should win the award, visit the West we recommend you venture off the
eries, what makes them special, and to Coast Traveller website at westcoast- grid and explore points of interest
place a vote for their favourite. traveller.com and look for Craft Beer wherever you choose to visit. New
Everyone who votes gets entered Enthusiasts under Contests. experiences are brewing nearby.
September/October 2021 | 18 | pacificcoastal.comSlow down and see more!
Enjoy Fuel Freedom as
you explore Penticton by
foot, pedal or paddle.
visitpenticton.com
@visitpenticton | #visitpenticton
September/October 2021 | 19 | pacificcoastal.comWILLIAMS LAKE
WELCOME
to Williams Lake
A nurse’s adventures in the 1960s Cariboo
A
uthor Marion McKinnon Crook valley, and brown grass on the hills Cariboo.” It could only be my nursing
was just 22 years old when she rolling into conifers at the skyline. It supervisor, Rita Browning. “Good trip?”
arrived in the small community was a land of sunshine—a land of log- she asked.
of Williams Lake in BC’s Cariboo ging and ranching, remote from urban I climbed into the truck and
region as a newly qualified nurse. Always centres, and I was going to be part slammed the door.
Pack a Candle: A Nurse in the Cariboo- of it. Perhaps I’d read too much Zane “It was long and hot, but I’m glad
Chilcotin is the true story of this adventur- Grey. Too late for second thoughts to be here.” I wasn’t going to start this
ous young nurse who provided much-need- now; I was committed. Whatever was job by complaining about the heat
ed health care to these rural communities in coming my way, I was not going to and the winding road that had made
the 1960s. Here is an excerpt: return home where my mother would me nauseous. I was still influenced by
When I was training to become immediately find a job for me, a safe the conventions of the Second World
a nurse, I had no intention of work- and boring job, close by. I would man- War era, even though that was two
ing within the four walls of a hospital age. decades ago. “Don’t complain, we’ll
and no interest in working in a city or I scanned the bus depot and the get through it,” my dad would say. My
suburban community. So when the parking lot. Williams Lake, Cariboo mother’s adage was “If you can’t say
Cariboo Health Unit advertised for a District, the sign said. Why “Cariboo”? something nice, say nothing at all.” My
public health nurse, I grabbed the job. Why not “Caribou”? Had there been mother valued conformity. We were all
As my bus had laboured around the caribou here in the past? I didn’t think pressured to conform and endure, but
winding corners on its twelve-hour there were any around now. Then I women were leaned on to be quiet
trip north from the Coast, I gazed at saw a tall, thin woman standing by a and self-effacing as well. As a rule, I
the Thompson River dashing danger- farm truck, piled high with feed sacks. wasn’t good at being quiet or self-
ously close to the canyon road. This She beckoned to me. I waved. She effacing.
was the Cariboo: blue skies, a wide called across the lot, “Welcome to the “We’re delighted to have you,
September/October 2021 | 20 | pacificcoastal.comMarion. Welcome to Williams Lake.” ogy, psychology, ethics, and even
Her British accent was still strong, philosophy . . . but not much prac-
although she told me she’d been tice. Public Health Nurses were
here for years. I knew the Cariboo- expected to cover vast amounts
Chilcotin District in this most western of territory, so much of my work
province of Canada was 104,000 would be focused on getting to
square miles, the size of New Zealand those remote areas. I would be
or the United Kingdom. I’d looked it alone out there in the far reaches
up in Encyclopedia Britannica. I wasn’t of the district. There would be
prepared for the openness, the vast no one to check to see if I was
expanse of rolling hills and grass- correct about a diagnosis or
the dosage of a medication. No
books to get more information.
I would be alone out there in No doctor. No other nurses.
the far reaches of the district. Probably no phone for miles.
What had seemed like an ad-
There would be no one to venture when I first applied for
check to see if I was correct the job was beginning to look
about a diagnosis or the dos- overwhelming.
age of a medication.
lands, the miles of hillsides covered
in evergreens. Were they fir? Or pine?
The sparkling air fresh, dry, invigorat-
ing. The description on the printed
page somehow hadn’t translated to
the almost overwhelming awe of the
landscape. The Cariboo was huge. I
was fascinated and eager to explore.
This was where I wanted to be. Would
there be moose, bear, coyotes, deer,
mountain lions? Probably not caribou.
I asked Rita about that.
“No, no caribou.” She yanked on
the steering wheel, piloting us much
too fast for comfort through the
almost empty streets. Williams Lake
was a small town, serving the ranch-
ers, loggers, and sawmill operators
and their families, she’d told me on
the phone when she’d offered me the
job. She’d said I’d be responsible for
the area east of Williams Lake and, at
times, the vast ranching country to
the west. It looked immense when
we stopped for a moment at one of
the road’s high points. Hills sloped
out for miles. I could see the faint
blue of mountains.
I swallowed. I was a newly gradu-
ated public health nurse. I had the
theory: anatomy, physiology, biol-
ogy, chemistry, organic chemistry,
mathematics, microbiology, sociol-
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September/October 2021 | 22 | pacificcoastal.comCOWICHAN VALLEY
RAPTORS
up close (really close)
Hard-working birds of prey can be seen
at The Raptors visitor centre
B
irds of prey have always inspired including gulls, starlings, crows, robins, ing services that include falconry-
awe—they are silent predators geese and other birds. As natural based wildlife management, but also
of the sky, swooping down with predators, the use of hawks, falcons traditional techniques, including pyro-
precision speed and deadly and eagles at airports offers an alterna- technics, distress calls, chasing, habitat
intent. Not only are raptors’ natural skills tive to shooting, poisoning or trapping. and management recommendations.
fascinating to see, but some can also play Using traditional falconry tech- In addition to this highly specific and
an important role in working to save human niques, The Raptors, a birds-of-prey unique work, The Raptors also works
lives and millions of dollars. wildlife organization based in the hard to engage people about wildlife
Bird strike risk at airports is a very Cowichan Valley, helps control these conservation and the immediate need
real threat to human safety. Many species at a variety of industrial sites to protect our planet before it is too
airports provide attractive habitats like airports, landfills and others areas. late.
for bird species, and may be built on Working with trained birds of prey The Raptors’ Cowichan Valley visi-
migratory flyways or estuaries. The at airports and other industrial sites is tor centre on Vancouver Island offers
presence of birds and the risk they effective, quiet and natural, and the a variety of opportunities to learn
pose can be mitigated by many wild- birds love their jobs. It’s a win-win-win about and connect with birds of prey.
life management strategies, including for wildlife management, animal wel- Throughout the day, flying demonstra-
trained raptors. fare and environmental conservation. tions highlight the birds’ unique flying
Raptors can be an effective solu- The Raptors organization works skills. Visitors can also get closer to
tion for controlling a variety of species, across Canada at various sites, provid- these remarkable birds by participat-
September/October 2021 | 23 | pacificcoastal.coming in hands-on learning encounters.
A hawk walk experience engages visitors by encouraging
a hawk to fly directly onto their outstretched arm. A close
encounter introduces visitors to several different raptor spe-
cies on their gloved hand as well as participating in a hawk
walk. Other opportunities offer more chances for in-depth
learning.
Rarely do people connect with nature and birds of prey
in such an intimate way. The Raptors' goal is to bring their
amazing birds closer to people with the intent of inspir-
ing visitors to want to make changes that will help protect
natural spaces. The best way to understand nature and the
importance of raptors is to see and engage with them up
close. Visit The Raptors centre today.
Tom Shypitka
Your MLA for Kootenay East
250-417-6022
tom.shypitka.MLA@leg.bc.ca CRANBROOK, B.C.
302-535 Victoria Ave., N. Cranbrook, BC Spacious rooms & suites
1908 Cranbrook Street N (Hwy3/95)
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September/October 2021 | 24 | pacificcoastal.comSeptember/October 2021 | 25 | pacificcoastal.com
September/October 2021 | 26 | pacificcoastal.com
POWELL RIVER
Hidden Treasures
Ceramic artist Ed Oldfield kneels next to his current raku pottery display at the Qualicum Art Supply and Gallery, July 5, 2021.
(Mandy Moraes photo)
Artist leaves raku
A
Powell River artist who fell in love with raku-fired ce-
ramics more than three decades ago has hidden pieces
pottery to be discovered
of his work on Vancouver Island and the Sunshine
Coast for people to take home.
Ed Oldfield said he was first introduced to raku pottery
across Vancouver Island, while attending a British Columbia Art Teachers’ Associa-
tion workshop in 1989.
Powell River “It was just absolutely stunning,” he says. “And I thought,
‘I have to figure out how to do this.’”
By Mandy Moraes, westcoasttraveller.com Raku firing is an ancient Japanese ceramics technique
that has been used for centuries to create a unique finish
to wares. In this technique, glazed ceramics are taken
September/October 2021 | 27 | pacificcoastal.comSince July 1, 2021, however, Oldfield
“It was just absolutely On the bottom of each sea star, he
sketches his website’s address, edsraku. has started a new similar project,
stunning,” he says. “And I com, so people can contact him once involving orange maple leaves instead
of sea stars.
thought, ‘I have to figure they have found his work in the wild.
The project first started years ago, He calls it his 215 Project, where
out how to do this.’” Oldfield said, at a year-end beach party each maple leaf commemorates and
for his Grade Seven class. honours the remains of the 215 Indig-
Wanting to give each student a enous children uncovered earlier this
from the kiln while still red hot and unique parting gift, he thought to year at a former BC residential school
placed on a combustible material create raku sea stars and hide them in Kamloops.
such as sawdust or newspaper. This among driftwood and sand for the He anticipates the project will take
starves the piece of oxygen, ultimately youngsters to find. Since he wanted
creating a range of colours within the
glaze: the colour of the finish is deter-
to make sure everyone found a piece,
he created more ceramics than there
To this day, Oldfield says, he
mined by the minerals in the glaze, were students, leaving several sea stars keeps the project going as a fun
the temperature of the clay piece, the
type of humidity of the combustibles
undiscovered.
The beginning of the current proj-
way to put his work into the
and how fast the oxygen burns off. ect started that summer when strang- world for people to enjoy.
“When working with raku, the ers reached out to him once they had
magic is that by the end of the day found an unclaimed sea star.
I don’t know what I’m going to get,” To this day, Oldfield says, he keeps a year to complete, both to create all
Oldfield says. the project going as a fun way to put 215 leaves and to hide them along
To show his love for the process, his work into the world for people to beaches and hiking trails on Vancouver
Oldfield has an ongoing art project enjoy. Island and in Powell River.
where he creates raku sea stars and “Sometimes months will go by Oldfield’s work is currently on
hides them on public beaches on before someone emails me. And then display at the Qualicum Art Supply and
Vancouver Island, Powell River and the sometimes, I’ll get multiple emails a Gallery, as well as at galleries in Oak
Lower Mainland. week!” Bay, Duncan, Bowser and Tofino.
September/October 2021 | 28 | pacificcoastal.comBOUTIQUE HERITAGE HOTEL
Only hotel in Powell River offering
complimentary full hot breakfast of your choice
Save 10% on your first night’s stay
Please bring in ad to receive discount
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Breakfast 1/2 block from
Tues-Sun 9-1PM
Townsite Brewing
Mon - Closed
604.483.4000
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September/October 2021 | 29 | pacificcoastal.comSeptember/October 2021 | 30 | pacificcoastal.com
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