May-June 2014www.burnsidegorge.ca

Community NewsBurnside Gorge

Mark it in your calendar! Selkirk Waterfront Festival: May 24, 2014

Selkirk Waterfront feStivalSaturday May 24, 2014

10aM 3pM

Be sure to attend this fun-filled family event that of-fers something for everyone - Explore exciting car-nival style rides and FUN activities in the family fun zone, savour tasty foods in the international food court, shop for unique items in the Artisan Craft Market and enjoy live entertainment by local performers!

This years line-up features Caleb Kennedy and the Colts, Salsa Caliente, as well as Boogaloo en Orbit, and the hot sound of Motown masters The Soul Shakers are guaranteed to shake things up!

VOLUNTEERS are needed for many different areas of the festival: set-up and take-down, traffic flow, stage assistants, and the vendors market and food caf. A great opportunity to enjoy the festival AND contribute to your community!

Email: selkirk@burnsidegorge.ca or call Suzette at 250-388-5251, ext 225 for more information.

How to Get to the Festival The Selkirk Waterfront Festival takes place in the

Selkirk Waterfront Community along the Gorge, just off of Gorge Road East where it meets Jutland Road. It is easily accessible via the Galloping Goose Trail or public transit buses #11 or #8. See you there!

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Burnside Fun n sun Camp (5-11 yrs)

Weekly Rates & HoursRegular Care 8:30am - 4:30pm Fee: $145Extended Care 7:30am - 5:30pm Fee: $165Daily Drop-in (subject to availability) Fee: $35

Each child receives a summer camp t-shirt. Please do not send candy, soda, gum, electronic games, cell phones or toys.

We Offer:

A licensed child care facility for children aged 5-11.

Quality care in a safe environment where children are treated as individuals.

Exciting activities, great field trips and a nutritious daily snack.

Summer Day Camp Programs at the Burnside Gorge Community CentreWhat to bring:

Picnic-style lunch

Hat and sunscreen

Bathing suit and towel

Water bottle

Appropriate clothes for the days weather

Itinerary Slide Into Summer- Join our summer camp to meet and make new friends, play games and explore our communityW-F July 2-4 * (pro rated for 3 days)

Eco Exploration- Be kind to our planet. Fun and educational activities that help us all contribute to maintaining a healthy environment.M-F July 7-11

Healthy Kids- Have fun while learning about good nutrition and everyday fit-ness, lets GO! Bowling, gymnastics, swimming.M-F July 14-18

Natures Art- Using na-ture to inspire our creative side, painting, clay, collage, sun prints, Goldstream Na-ture House.M-F July 21-25

Farms & Gardens - Spend the week visiting farms and gardens on the island, berry picking, dairy farm, so much to see and learn.M-F July 28-Aug 1

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Burnside Gorge Community News: May-June 2014

May-June 2014 Volume 28, No. 3

Published by theBurnside Gorge Community Association

471 Cecelia Rd Victoria BC

V8T 4T4

Phone: 250-388-5251 Fax: 250-388-5269

www.burnsidegorge.ca

Note: Written contributions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the BGCA or its staff.

BGCA Board of DirectorsTamara Leonard-Vail, President Tracy James, Vice-PresidentJohn Sanderson, TreasurerMichelle Peterson, Secretary Samuel Jang Murray LangdonAvery Stetski

To AdvertiseAs a not-for-profit organization, we depend on advertising to cover publishing costs. Establish yourself as a community supporter with an ad in your community newsletter.

The Burnside Gorge Community News is published bi-monthly. 7,000+ copies are delivered throughout the Burnside Gorge and Tillicum neighbourhoods.

The deadline to purchase ad space is the 15th of each month prior to publication. Please contact us for current rates and information.

Editors: Geraldine Bulosan, Rachel O'Neill Production & Layout: Geraldine Bulosan Phone: 250-388-5251 Email: geraldine@burnsidegorge.ca or rachel@burnsidegorge.ca

ContributionsThe Burnside Gorge Community News welcomes contributions from community members. Please note that submission does not guarantee publication. Articles will be subject to editing as required for clarity and brevity.

About the Burnside Gorge Community Association Your community association is your link to the City of Victoria on neighbourhood ideas and concerns. We welcome residents to participate in our committees and we host regular meetings to bring neighbours together to ensure your voices are heard.

The Burnside Gorge Community Association operates the Burnside Gorge Community Centre. The community centre is both a neighbourhood house and a recreation centre.

We provide family resource programs and services that respond to the needs of families in the area such as family outreach, parent & child programs, childcare, a youth centre and special events. We offer educational and recreational activities such as yoga, dance and language courses.

We also provide a number of popular special events throughout the city, including the Selkirk Waterfront Festival, the Gorge Waterway Cleanup, the Halloween Monster Mash, Santa's Pancake Breakfast and the Community Christmas Dinner.

Stay connected with Burnside Gorge:

2

Community NewsBurnside Gorge

twitter.com/BurnsideGorge

facebook.com/BurnsideGorgeCommunity Association

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Burnside Gorge Community Centre Room Rentals

For meetings, conferences, parties and family gatherings, we have a wide variety of rooms available to suit your needs. We offer wireless internet, in-house or order-in catering services, and rental equipment, all at afford-able prices. Activity Centre: max 120 guests Board Room: max 8 guests$65/hr $250/half day $400/full day $35/hr $110/half day $180/full day

Education Centre: max 40 guests Group Room: max 10 guests$55/hr $200/half day $300/full day $45/hr $150/half day $200/full day

Gymnasium: max 150 guests$35/hr $150/half day $250/full day For more information, or to make a booking, call 250.388.5251 ext.226.

My name is Samuel Jang and I joined the Board of the Burnside Gorge Community Association last August. I am very appreciative to work with people who are passionate about Vic-toria and place such a high value on improv-ing the living conditions for people who call this place home.

I moved to Victoria from Vancouver three years ago. My employer, BC Investment Manage-ment, is located in the Selkirk waterfront; I am the owner of a lovely two bedroom apartment fac-ing the Galloping Goose trail at 365 Waterfront Crescent; and my spiri-tual activity SGI [Soka Gakkai International] Buddhism takes place once a month at the Burnside Gorge Com-munity Centre where space is rented out to in-terested parties.

I grew fond of the BGCA after one of many Buddhist chants - exploring the downstairs of the community centre, I admired the childrens draw-ings, the bright open spaces used as classrooms,

and the rooftop garden. Seeing a posting online for a board member, I felt I could contribute my business and financial skills as well as offer con-tacts at my employer for fundraising purposes.

On the BGCA board, one of the topics that always comes up is making our community more liveable and invit-ing to live in, whether it involves making a rec-ommendation for a spe-cific change or a broader set of planning activities that will lead to bigger solutions.

It is an honour to be working on the board! If you see me, please feel free to say hi.

On Board: with Samuel Jang, Board of Directors

Burnside Gorge Community News: May-June 2014 3

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The Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week is turning 20!By Theresa Gulliver, Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society

A Few Cycling Safety TipsBy Cst. Kathi Brown and Cst. Allison Johnson,

Community Resource Officers

Now that the sun is shining, it seems that more people have dusted off their bikes for some spring cycling. We are lucky to have such great pathways and so many bike lanes in the city so that we can cycle in safety. We want to pass along a few safety tips to keep yourself and your family safe while enjoying cycling:

Ensure that you have a helmet which fits you properly and that you wear it on your head (it doesnt keep you safe when it is hanging from your handlebars).

Before going riding, do a quick safety check of your bike to ensure that your wheels are attached firmly to your bicycle, your chain is in good working order and that your tires are adequately pumped.

When you are ap-proaching an intersec-tion, slow down, even when you have the right of way, to ensure that other drivers are yield-ing to you. Even though you may not be at fault, you will be the one who gets injured in a col-lision so please enter intersections cautiously.

When you see a car getting ready to pull out or merge in front of you,

try to make eye contact with the driver to ensure that the driver sees you coming.

Wear bright clothing and ensure that you have a working headlight and tail light and reflectors for riding at night.

Have fun and be safe!

The Camosun College Certified Dental Assistant Program visited our Burnside Out of School Care program on March 25th. They talked to the children about oral hygiene, brought some giant teeth for the children to brush, and gave each child a goodie bag that included a tooth brush, floss and other information related to oral hygiene.

They also shared information about their Preventive Public Clinic for children and youth age 5-15 years beginning in May for 3 weeks. Services are $25.00 or less and may include: polishing, fluoride application, x-rays, sealants and oral hygiene instruction. Contact 250-370-3184 to make an appointment.

OSC brushes up on Dental Hygiene; Camosun College's annual public Dental Clinic starts in May

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The Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week is cel-ebrating its 20th Anniversary May 26 June 1, 2014!

Since 1995, Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week (GVBTWW) has grown to be one of the regions most supported and recognizable events. The week-long event attracts over 7,000 commuter cyclists each year, including about 1,000 new cyclists. Have you ever participated?

This busy community event introduces participants to a viable transportation alternative in a fun and accessible way; many commuter cyclists in Greater Victoria credit Bike to Work Week with getting them out of their cars and onto their bikes for good.

With fun events, prizes, peer and employer sup-port, the 2014 Bike to Work Week event will fea-ture over 20 high-profile events across the Capital Region, including the popular kick off barbeque and the 20th Anniversary closing celebration. Our 20th anniversary grand celebration is expected to draw the largest participation this event has ever seen at Centennial Square on Saturday, May 31.

The Commuter Challenge bike versus car friendly race will be held one week before Bike to Work Week on Wednesday, May 21. Following the rules of the road, teams plan their own starting point and end in downtown Victoria demonstrat-ing that cycling is convenient and comparable (or even quicker) in time to driving.

1995 was the inaugural year of the Bike to Work Week event. A core group of commuter cyclists felt that a commuter cycling event was intrinsically at-

tractive to current enthusiasts and could raise the profile of cycling to work to interest more people in

the activity. Minis-try of Government Services supported the first year of the event with govern-ment employees as the target audience.

Two years later the non-profit Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society was formed. To this day the Society remains focused on developing the profile of the cycling community and of course, safety. The Greater Victoria event has grown substantially from the approximately 50 teams and 500 partici-pants in 1997 to 660 teams and over 7,000 partici-pants today.

To aid cyclists safe-ty, the Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society of-fers a suite of Bike Skills courses for beginners and experienced riders. For the first time you can register for a course in your own community!

Get ready to have fun and show your support in Canadas cycling capi-tal!

Registration for the Commuter Challenge, Bike to Work Week and Bike Skills Courses start in April. Visit

www.biketoworkvictoria.ca Stay up to date with event information by fol-

lowing us on Facebook or Twitter at: www.face-book.com/BiketoWorkVictoria or @BiketoWorkVic

Burnside Gorge Community News: May-June 20144

activity GuideHow to ParticiPate in

a BGca ProGram The Burnside Gorge Community Centre

offers a variety of free and low-cost programs for all ages ranging from tots to seniors.

Outdoor public facilities include the Cecelia Ravine Sport Court and Bike Skills Park. Public transit buses #8, 11, 21 and 22 run along the streets that parallel or border Cecelia Road.

The community centre is located just out-side the downtown core at 471 Cecelia Road, between Burnside Road East and Gorge Road East. We also operate the Burnside Community Campus at 3130 Jutland Road.

The Community Centre is also accessible via the Galloping Goose Trail.

We look forward to seeing you and hope you enjoy your time in the neighbourhood! For more information, please call us at 250-388-5251.

CHoose a proGram

Have a look at the various programs available for you, your family or your friends. A number of our programs are either drop-in programs or registered programs.

drop-in proGrams

Participation in a drop-in program does not require you to register. The drop-in programs are open to everyone suitable for the age range and the interests which are described by the write ups.

Drop-in programs may have a low-cost fee or may be free of charge as listed in the write up.

reGistered proGrams

Registered programs require participants to register for the program according to the program registration options and payments. It is always recommended that participants register as this helps ensure that your favou-rite programs will run.

Unfortunately some courses may be cancelled due to low registration. If this occurs, refunds will be provided.

payment options inClude

Cash, cheque, debit or credit cards (MC or Visa), and City of Victoria L.I.F.E. credits.

Registration and payment may be done in person or over the phone with a credit card or valid L.I.F.E. credits.

Call us at 250-388-5251 for more info.

FaCility loCations

All programs take place at the Burnside Gorge Community Centre unless otherwise noted.

Burnside Gorge Community Centre 471 Cecelia Rd

Burnside Community Campus 3130 Jutland Rd

L.i.F.e. leisure involvement For everyone

The L.I.F.E. program is designed to ensure equitable access to recreation for all City of Victoria residents regardless of their ability to pay.

The program provides a combination of annual credit and a regional admission card to eligible low-income individuals and fami-lies to use towards recreational programs and services in all City of Victoria recreational facilities and jointly-operated centres.

Application forms for L.I.F.E. 2014 are available at the Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre.

Call Crystal Pool at 250-361-0732 for more information.

Family Centre proGrams

the Family Centre will be closed from sunday June 22 to tuesday July 1st, re-opening Wednesday July 2.

Toddler Art Drop-In (25 yrs)Explore your creative side! Each week features a different craft designed with the preschooler in

mind. Smocks and soap provided. Please dress children in clothing that can get messy and they can be creative in. Parent participation is required.

$2 per child/drop-in46932 Wed Apr 30- June 18 9:30am-10:30am 46932 Wed July 2 Aug 20 9:30am-10:30am

Kindergym Parent and Tot Drop-In (2-4 yrs) Join us for active play in the Burnside Campus gymnasium. There are ride-on toys, climbers, slides,

balls, hoops and various sports equipment. The program includes free play, organized games and circle time. Best suited for ages 24 yrs yet all children under 5 yrs are welcome. Parent participation is required.

Free drop-in at Burnside Campus, 3130 Jutland road 46928 Tue April 29-Jun 17 9:30am-10:45am

Playground Drop-In (2-4 yrs)Join us on Tuesday mornings throughout the summer at Rudd Park. Socialize with other parents

while your child enjoys outdoor play. A nutritious snack is included - Free of charge. Parent participa-tion is required. Remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses and sun hats.

Free drop-in at rudd park (irma st at Harriet rd or Boleskine rd)46930 Tue July 8 Aug 19 9:30am 10:45am

Family Dinner & Drop-In Families are invited for a delicious dinner prepared by staff and volunteers every Thursday eve-

ning. After dinner, stay and play in the family centre or hang out in the youth centre. Assistance with set-up and clean-up is appreciated. Dinner is served at 5:00pm.

*Donations appreciated46921 Thu May 1 June 19 Dinner: 5:00pm-6:00pm Drop-in: 6:00pm-7:00pm

Summer BBQ & Drop-In for FamiliesJoin us for a delicious BBQ and salad served out on our back patio. Lawn chairs and blankets rec-

ommended as seating is limited. Program is by donation.

*Donations appreciated46922 Thu July 3 Aug 21 Dinner: 5:00pm-6:00pm Drop-in: 6:00pm-7:00pm

Parent and Tot Playgroup Drop-In (0 to 5 yrs)This is an opportunity for young children and their caregivers to meet and play in an informal at-

mosphere with toys, books and crafts. Snacks provided. Groups may not meet on school holidays and Professional Development Days.

46923 Apr 1 Jun 28 Free Drop-In

Tue 11:00am-12:00pm Wed 10:30am-12:00pm Thu 6:00pm-7:00pm Sat 11:00am-12:00pm

Mother Goose (0 to 5 yrs) This program incorporates music, stories, and fun for you and your little one! The Parent Child Moth-

er Goose program encourages child development through music, stories, movement, and attachment parenting. This program is offered in partnership with Success by 6 South Vancouver Island. Parent participation is required. Please call 250-388-5251 for more information or to register.

*mother Goose will not run in the months of July and august 201446929 Sat Mar 29 Jun 21 10:00am 11:00am Free Drop-In

CheCk Out Pages 1 & 8 for Summer Day Camp

listings!

Burnside Gorge Community News: May-June 2014 5

Sol Food Cafe & Sol Fine FoodsCafe, Deli, Catering

7am-4pmMonday-Friday

T. 250-381-6629F. 250-381-6618

#101-2955 Jutland Rd

solfinefoods.com

aCtive youtH

Burnside Youth Centre Drop-In (Ages 12-18) Bring your friends or meet new ones at the Scene Youth Centre. Activities

include playing pool, air hockey, free internet and computer use, foosball and more. We also have a WII, Playstation 2 and an awesome theatre room where you can watch movies on a big screen. For more information on the Youth Drop-In Nights contact Brittany at 250-388-5251, ext 254 or email brittany@burnsidegorge.ca

Mar 26 Jun 27 | Free Drop-In

Wed 5:30pm-8:00pm Thu 4:30pm-8:00pmFri 4:30pm-8:30pm

Guy Stuff at BurnsideGuy Stuff is a safe and supportive program for youth ages 11 to 16. A variety

of activities are offered including pool, air hockey, free Internet and computer use, foose-ball, WII, and Playstation 2. This weekly drop-in will help youth to build self-esteem, manage conflict and develop social skills in a group setting. For details contact anthony@burnsidegorge.ca.

April 30- Jun 25 | Free Drop-In46924 Wed 4:30pm-5:30pm

dont miss tHe youtH Centre launCH party!

Friday June 13, 5-8pm

Were having a party to celebrate the launch of a new name AND a new Facebook page for the Youth Centre.

BBQ & Refreshments Prizes Games and other Fun Stuff!

This event is free and open to all youth and their families.Call Brittany at 250-388-5251 for more info.

aCtive Kids sportBall *Pre-registration is required

*No class August 3Note: For parents who have never registered their child in a Sportball pro-

gram before, Sportball is offering a first class free trial for the Outdoor Soc-cer programs. Parents need to call the Burnside Gorge Community Centre in advance to sign-up for this offer. When a parent calls to sign up for the free class (make sure they know it is for the first class only), fill in their name and contact information on the spreadsheet provided in the Program Binder. Let them know that if they want to sign their child up for the rest of the program, they must call us to register their child in the remaining 5 classes (pro-rated for 5 weeks).

To register or for more info call 250-388-5251

Parent and Child Outdoor Soccer (2-3yrs)* Parents and caregivers can have a direct hand in a preschoolers develop-

ment through our Sportball soccer classes. Children are taught the funda-mental skills necessary to excel in soccer. These include throw-ins, dribbling, trapping, passing, goalie skills and more. Classes are dedicated to skills de-velopment and putting those skills to work in an exciting, non-competitive game.

location is Burnside Community Campus, sports Field47110 Sun July 6-Aug 17 9:00 -9:45am 6/$104

Outdoor Soccer*Sportball coaches develop competence and confidence on the field in Sport-

ball soccer classes. Children are taught the fundamental skills necessary to excel in soccer. These include throw-ins, dribbling, trapping, passing, goalie skills and more. Classes are dedicated to skills development and putting those skills to work in an exciting, non-competitive game. Fees include a Sportball jersey in spring program, jersey and ball in summer program.

outdoor soccer (4-6yrs) | location is Burnside Community Campus, sports Field47113 Sun July 6-Aug 17 9:45-10:45am 6/$104

outdoor soccer (7-10yrs) | location is Burnside Community Campus, sports Field47115 Sun July 6-Aug 17 10:45am - 11:45am 6/$104

Multi-Sport Camp*What a fantastic experience for a child! Available in morning or afternoon

half-day sessions. Sportball camps focus on eight core sports: hockey, soc-cer, tennis, baseball, basketball, volleyball, golf and football, and also include arts and crafts, snack time, stories, music, co-operative games and theme days. Camps are run indoors and outdoors, depending on the location and weather.

July three day Camp | location is Burnside Community Centre 47116 Ages 3-5 Wed-Fri Jul 2-4 9:00am-12:00pm 3/$84

47118 Ages 6-9 Wed-Fri Jul 2-4 1:00pm-4:00pm 3/$84

august - Four day Camp | location is Burnside Community Centre 47117 Ages 3-5 Tue-Fri Aug 5-8 9:00am-12:00pm 4/$112

47119 Ages 6-9 Tue-Fri Aug 5-8 1:00pm-4:00pm 4/$112

aCtive Bodies

Bringing Your Practice Home Tips, tricks, & information to create your own personalized home prac-

tice. This two hour workshop will cover essential aspects of a well-rounded yoga practice including breath, joint health, strengthening & building flex-ibility and stamina, and the importance of relaxation - as well as ways to stay interested & motivated. Hand-outs & practice cards will be provided to set you on your way to a successful personal practice. Instructor: Cedar Sorensen

47365 Sat May 17 10:00am 12:00pm 1/$25

Flow YogaFlow yoga is a practice in which the postures are linked with the breath in

a flowing sequence, one posture gracefully flowing into the other. Practiced mindfully and with attention to alignment, this practice calms the mind, in-creases flexibility, strength and balance. Instructor: Cedar Sorensen

46933 Mon May 5 June 16 5:15pm 6:15pm 6/$54No class May 19

46934 Mon June 23 July 28 5:15pm 6:15pm 6/$54

Fresh Air Yoga Get refreshed through this invigorating outdoor hatha flow yoga class.

Gain strength, improve flexibility, enhance balance and release stress through breathing, posture, flowing movements, relaxation, and inspiring nature ap-preciation readings. Jenny Feick of Nature Wise Yoga provides alignment guidance and a range of options with increasing challenge, so all levels can play and progress. Class will move indoors in poor weather.

47091 Tues June 3-June 24 5:30pm 6:45pm 4/$3947092 Tues July 8- July 29 5:30pm 6:45pm 4/$39

Gentle Yoga Therapy for 50+

Yoga therapy takes the approach of gen-tly and slowly gaining strength and mobil-ity in intelligent and educated ways. In a supportive environ-

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Burnside Gorge Community News: May-June 20146

ALSO ON-SITE : X-RAY LAB PHARMACY PHYSIO

101 Burnside Rd. West ( between Tillicum and Harriet )

Mon. to Fri. 7:30am to 9:00pmSat.,Sun.& Hol.9:00am to 6:00pm

EXTENDED HOURS

www.burnsideclinic.ca

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ment, learn how to strengthen yourself and how to move and hold your body to prevent injury and speed recovery.

Erica will focus on areas that affect how you function in daily living, in-cluding hands, fingers, hips, feet and toes. Learn tools and exercises to bring you ease of movement. Instructor: Erica Fritch

47121 Fri May 2 June 6 11:00am 12:00pm 6/$59

47125 Fri June 13-July 18 11:00am 12:00pm 6/$59

Lunch Hour Yoga TherapyTherapeutic yoga focuses on mobility of the joints and strengthening the

muscles that govern and support those joints. Erica will teach the use of props (blocks, straps, therapy balls, a chair, wall space) to support and deepen your poses and increase awareness of how you hold your body. Ideal for your mid-day break, join us for a guided stretch and stress-release time that will bring you ease. Instructor: Erica Fritch

47120 Fri May 2 June 6 12:15pm 1:00pm 6/$5947124 Fri June 13-July 18 12:15pm 1:00pm 6/$59

Mom and Babe Yoga (0-1 yrs)The life of a new mom is hectic, exhausting, demanding. Sometimes we for-

get that it is also beautiful, full of wonder, and a short part of our lives. Come connect with other new moms and their babies and take time to nourish your body and mama spirit. Keep your priorities in line through the changes in your life and experience a time of release for yourself and your babe. Instruc-tor: Erica Fritch

47122 Fri May 2 June 6 1:15pm-2:15pm 6/$5947123 Fri June 13-July 18 1:15pm-2:15pm 6/$59

Yoga for Active PeopleThis series of classes will help you get in condition for the outdoor activi-

ties you love to do - hiking, running, cycling, kayaking, sports, etc. Learn to mobilize the power of your body, mind and spirit through posture, move-ment, breath and optimism so you can stay active throughout your life. Jenny Feick of Nature Wise Yoga offers alignment conscious, nature-inspired, hatha flow yoga, and provides options for all levels.

46925 Wed April 2-May 28 7pm 8:15pm 8/$79 *No class May 21

Yin Yang YogaThis class will begin with a more vigorous yang sequence based on the

sun salutations to build heat & strength in the body. In the second part of the class, well slow things down with longer held postures that build flexibility & mobility in both the body & mind. This allows us to move beyond the muscu-lar level & exercise the connective tissues of the body. Yin yoga is a wonder-ful practice that creates space and length in the body and renews our energy resources (qi / chi / prana), as well as affording us the opportunity to grow in mindfulness & presence. Instructor: Cedar Sorensen

47366 Wed May 21 Jun 25 5:00pm 6:00pm 6/$59

50 plus proGrams

Seniors Lunch and Learn Join us for a nutritious soup luncheon, make new friends, and learn some-

thing new from a variety of guest speakers and weekly themes. A delicious homemade soup is served from 12-1pm, complimented by a delicious dessert. We then move into a social setting or hear from guest speakers on a variety of topical subjects. Call 250.388.5251 for more information.

46931 Tue April 1-Aug 19 12pm2pm $3/Drop-In

upCominG presentations to marK on your Calendar!

Yoga Therapy for the Older Adult Tues, May 20, 1:00pm-2:00pm Learn how yoga therapy can assist you in gently and slowly gaining strength

and mobility. Erica will focus on areas that affect how you function in daily living, including hands, fingers, hips, feet and toes. Learn tools and exercises to bring you ease of movement. Erica Fritch, Certified Yoga Therapist

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Gluten & Wheat Sensitivities & Autoimmune Disorders Tues, April 29, 1:00pm-2:00pm Dr. Jennifer Gratton, Naturopathic Physician, will discuss the following

key topics: overview of glutens history and modernization, unraveling glu-tens overall effect on the gut and body, distinguishing between gluten allergy, sensitivity and/or intolerance (Celiac Disease), how un-diagnosed gluten sen-sitivities can contribute to many auto-immune disorders and helpful tips to avoiding gluten in you diet and safe ways to repair gut health.

Living to 100 & Beyond Tuesday May 13, 1:00pm-2:00pmMany of todays children will live for a century or longer... not just a few -

many! As for todays generation, it has caught many of us by surprise - were living longer - way longer - so even more important that we take care of our-selves to be prepared for our journey and the bonus years ahead. Living to 100 and beyond is here... now!

With this new longevity, how and what do we need to do to be prepared? Living longer requires a Whole Picture perspective that includes not just mental and physical fitness but also the financial fitness to support and enjoy your longevity & lifestyle.

Frank and Tina Moore will share valuable insights on preparing for those bonus years, and explore concepts and tools that can be used to achieve opti-mal health in all aspects of your life.

presenter profiles:

Tina Moore Tina has over 10 years of experience in fitness training on land and in wa-

ter, and lives her lifelong passion for fitness by assisting active adults. A certi-fied Personal Trainer and Aquatic Instructor with BCRPA*, she develops tar-geted programs that help her clients meet their goals and objectives, whether they are seeking to improve their cardiovascular endurance, entering a rehab program, or engaging in fitness for the first time. Tina will provide a picture of healthy aging, exploring the many benefits of an active lifestyle, and the steps to get there.

Frank MooreFrank has an extensive background in business development and plan-

ning, an MBA, and over 25 years of being engaged in wealth planning. After attending a workshop on Living to 100 and Beyond, Frank was inspired to connect his lifelong passion for finances with the realities of what it takes for people to support and enjoy an active, rewarding lifestyle in their senior years. Frank will look at the big picture of how were living, and provide us with practical tools to prepare for the future.

CoMMunity Corner

May 4: Plant Sale, 1-4pm, 71 Obed Ave. By donation proceeds benefit the Gorge Park Community Gardens. Donations of plants (flowers, veggies, herbs, berries) in labeled containers

for this fundraiser are welcome and can be dropped off between April 29-May 3.

For more info contact Gabe at 250-382-1328.

The Annual Balfour Avenue Street Sale is looking for a volunteer to coordinate this 20+ year old community event which takes place in June. To apply or for details call 250-385-6154.

May 28: Imagining PossibilitiesPresented by Soroptimist International of Victoria WestshoreThis one day conference offers young women ages 16-24 the opportunity to

find their passion in life and take charge of their future. Wednesday, May 28, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Olympic View Golf Club, 643

Latoria Rd, Victoria, BC. Transit, shuttle van from Langford Exchange, and parking available.

Entry by donation, $10.00 minimum suggested, payable by PayPal or at the door. For more information and registration:

si-victoriawestshore.com/ImaginingPossibilities or contact either Suzanne Heron via email at suz.heron@gmail.com or phone 250-891-7495 or Michele Hansen via email at michelehansen@shaw.ca or phone 250-896-2294.

Burnside Gorge Community News: May-June 2014 7

Rob Fleming, MLAVictoria Hillside

1020 Hillside Avenue

250 360.2023 rob.fleming.mla@leg.bc.ca

Serving Our Community

Dodds Furnitureacross from Mayfair shopping centre

715 Finlayson StCall 388-6663

We wont be undersold!

Locally owned and operated. Serving Victoria since 1977.www.doddsfurniture.com

650 Hillside AveVictoria BC, V8T 1Z2Guaranteed service since 1959

250-384-4722Fax 250-384-8860

info@russhays.comwww.russhays.com

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By C.A. LHirondelle

As I was developing My Help Book of community resources, the most frequent question asked was: why are you publishing a paper version? There is an assumption today that everyone has good access to the internet.

Yet despite the image of everyone walking around with smart phones, tab-lets, laptops and wifi, a digital divide separates those who have good access to the internet and those who dont. A 2012 Statistics Canada survey shows income as a key factor in determining personal internet use. In Greater Vic-toria the top income group ($87,000+) has 98.4 percent online access and the lowest income group ($30,000 and below) has 73 percent access (27 percent without). Canada-wide the numbers are 95 percent for highest income group and 62 percent for the lowest.

Lack of internet access is a huge barrier for people who need to find help online or who need to apply for jobs, programs or benefits. Less obvious but more poignant is the affect on isolated people who might also lack transporta-tion or mobility and who are desperate to stay in touch with friends and fam-ily. And politically, the digital divide means a double democracy whammy of lack of access to information (being informed) and lack of giving information (having your voice heard).

Beyond complete lack of access, there are also other barriers to online re-sources:

Having a slow computer and/or internet connection;

Needing to print things out and not being able to afford ink for cheap printers;

Vision problems due to lack of eye care or proper glasses;

Having a computer but not enough time to use it;

Too many people sharing one computer;

Literacy barriers and difficulty knowing key words when searching for important information.

Lack of computer skills due to not enough equipment, practice and mentors.

In addition, Canada is one of the most expensive countries for internet and cell phone service (OpenMedia 2013; CBC Mar.20, 2014). Combine that with high housing and transportation prices (a bus pass is $85/month) and it is not surprising significant numbers of people use public computers at libraries, community centres and cafes.

For environmental reasons many people cheer the demise of printed sourc-es of information. However, anyone reading Made to Break: Technology and Obsolescence in America by Giles Slade can see that the green argument is actually grey. There are big environment costs to tech gadgets, however, most of these are invisible to the consumer, unlike paper, which causes visible clut-ter and tedious recycling chores.

The trend towards digital information will continue. Yet, the digital divide will remain for some time as the impact of the problem is too easy to ignore given more visible and pressing social problems.

More information is available at www.MyHelpBook.me or write: P.O. Box 8441 Victoria BC V8W 3S1.

For past 20 years Find A Computer A Home has provided recycled com-puter equipment to assist the disadvantaged citizens of the Victoria area. If you have a newer working laptop that you want to donate, contact them via: http://www.freewebs.com/facah/donate.html

The Digital Divide

The reception desk at the Burnside Gorge Community Centre is a busy hub of phone calls, clients visiting for an appointment or a drop-in program, or a family looking for help. The volunteers who help with these daily tasks have been invaluable in many ways. They help make the community centre a friendly and wel-coming place to visit and are a helpful resource for staff, clients and the public.

In our Spotlight for this Spring issue, please meet Caroline, one of the volunteers youll meet here at the community centre.

Why is volunteerism important to you? After having raised my own family I realize

that is it vital to have support available. Some-times it can be difficult to get the resources you need, or even know where to look. One of the most important ways to lend a hand is through the community centres. I hope that by giving

BGCA Volunteer Spotlight

a few hours of my time each week, I can make a small difference to someones day.

Do you have a favourite spot in the Burnside Gorge neighbourhood?

My husband and I spend a lot of time walking our dogs in the many convenient parks and trails. I feel privileged to have so many amenities close by.

What do you enjoy doing when youre not volunteering?

I like to spend time with family and friends, as well as working part-time at Cupcakes Uptown. Both my sons have recently moved from home, but I still like to give them a hand when I can. Also now that spring has come, I look forward to getting out in the garden.

Thank you, Caroline, for volunteering with the Burnside Gorge!

If youre interested in volunteering other cur-rent opportunities include:

Selkirk Waterfront Festival: May 24, 2014 see page 1 for details or call Suzette Del-mage at 250-388-5251, ext 225 or email suzette@burnsidegorge.ca

Friends of Cecelia Ravine: 1st Saturday of every month help remove invasive species, replant native plants and monitor the natural areas in Cecelia Ravine Park. Contact Rachel ONeill at 250-388-5251, ext 223 or email rachel@burnsidegorge.ca

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Burnside Gorge Community News: May-June 2014

Have you heard of Zorbing?

Climb into a giant inflatable human hamster ball for

your next party!

875 Viewfield RoadVictoria, BC V9A 4V2

250-384-6424 | office@cucvictoria.com

My name is Laurel MacKay and I am one of three Youth and Family Counsellors at Spectrum Community School who are employed by the Burnside Gorge Community Association. The Youth and Family Counsellors have many roles in the school one of them is assisting young people and families in believing things can be different and helping them find hope dur-ing times when it may seem like it is not possible.

Many of the young people we work with strug-gle with grief and loss issues, mental health con-cerns as well as substance use. Their world can often feel so small and they can be disconnected from the wider community. I am working on a project that may change this for some of our stu-dents.

The idea originally came from a neighbour of mine Brenda Heath who used to work at the

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Austin State Hospital in the United States. She cre-ated a project where local artists in the commu-nity worked with the youth at the hospital to create murals that symbolized what Hope looked like to them.

We decided to create a similar opportunity at Spectrum Community School. The idea is to gather as many ideas and pictures as possible from stu-dents that reflect what Hope looks like for them. Then, artists from the community will work one on one with some of our students to create a piece of art that will later be transferred onto a wall at the school.

The goal is to have a gallery of Hope that these students can leave behind for other students to en-joy and be inspired by. It can be easy for youth to engage in unhealthy coping mechanisms in order to get through difficult experiences the hope is

If you could visualize Hope, what would it look like? By Laurel McKay, Youth & Family Counsellor at Spectrum Community School

Fun with Science- A week full of science experiments, hands on activities, building volcanoes, egg drop, invisible ink, and more!T-F Aug 5-8

Take a Hike- One of our favorite weeks, full of outdoor adventures, nature hikes, enjoy our local parks and beaches: Wittys Lagoon, Christmas Hill, Mount Doug.M-F Aug 11-15

Its a Wrap- Last week of camp to take in as much as we can.M-F Aug 18-22

Camp survivor summer series (11-15 yrs)*

An action-packed adventure camp that takes you outdoors for rock climb-ing, zip-lining, motocross, swimming and more! If you are looking for a sum-mer full of adventure and fun, this is the camp for YOU!

Priority space for weekly camp registration with daily registration options available once minimum numbers are met ($39/day if space is available). Register early, as spaces are limited. Call Brittany for detailed information at 250-388-5251 ext 254.

A Sweet Start to SummerBurnside Gorge Community Centre 4/$129 46903 M-F Jun 30 Jul 4 9 a.m. 4 p.m.

No camp on Tues July 1

Pedal to the MetalBurnside Gorge Community Centre 5/$159 46904 M-F July 7 - 11 9 a.m. 4 p.m.

Epic AdventureBurnside Gorge Community Centre 5/$159 46905 M-F July 14 - 18 9 a.m. 4 p.m.

Island SummerBurnside Gorge Community Centre 5/$159 46906 M-F July 21 - 25 9 a.m. 4 p.m.

Summer BlastBurnside Gorge Community Centre 5/$159 46907 M-F July 28 Aug 1 9 a.m. 4 p.m.

Island DiscoveryBurnside Gorge Community Centre 4/$129 46908 T-F Aug 5 - 08 9 a.m. 4 p.m.

No camp on Mon Aug 4

...Summer Camps continued from page 1

Swim, Explore, RideBurnside Gorge Community Centre 5/$159 46909 M-F Aug 11 - 15 9 a.m. 4 p.m.

Ultimate SummerBurnside Gorge Community Centre 5/$159 46910 M-F Aug 18 - 22 9 a.m. 4 p.m.

*Registration and waiver forms for Camp Survivor will be avail-able online starting April 28, 2014.

that through this process, they can make some healthy connections in the community and learn to explore their creative selves while realizing they can see light rather than darkness.

This event will take place at Burnside Gorge Community Association on May 24th and 25th. If you are an artist who wants to share some of your gifts with our students or if you have do-nations of food, time, money or art supplies to, offer please contact me via email at lmackay@sd61.bc.ca. We look forward to hearing from you and collaborating with you.

When the world says, Give up, Hope whispers, Try it one more time.

- Author Unknown

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