December 2019www.burnsidegorge.ca

Burnside Gorge

Community NewsThe Joy of GivingThis time of year is extremely busy and joyful at the Community Centre

as we get ready for all of our seasonal events and programs. Some of our upcoming events include:

• Christmas Dinner for families – Thur, Dec 5, 5-6pm. Enjoy a deli-cious holiday dinner with all the trimmings. Suggested donation of $5. Registration is required, please contact us at 250-388-5251.

• Santa’s Pancake Breakfast – Sat, Dec 7, 9am-11:30am. Enjoy a yum-my breakfast, music, crafts & photos with Santa. Tickets at the door, $10/family (up to 4 members), $5/person.

• Christmas Lunch for Seniors – Thurs, Dec 12, 12-1:30pm. Enjoy a delicious Christmas lunch and seasonal entertainment. $6/person. Registration is required, please contact the Centre at 250-388-5251.

We’re also working hard on our annual Christmas Hamper program which helps low-income families who may not be able to provide a special Christmas experience for their children without assistance. The families we support are currently involved with one of the many programs here at the Burnside Gorge Community Centre. Christmas Hampers include food cards for fresh produce, a box of non-perishables, and personal gifts for children to open on Christmas day. We are reaching out to our community to ask for your help!

We realize that this is a busy time of year and recognize that helping looks different to everyone. No gift or offer of support is too small and there are many ways to give: Sponsor a family Christmas Hamper with friends & family or with a work or church group; Raise funds through your respective group to make a cash gift to the BGCA and we will purchase gifts and food vouchers; Collect non-perishable food items and grocery gift certifi cates to include with Christmas Hampers; Purchase gifts or gift cards for the BGCA to distribute in hampers. If you are collecting non-perishable food items or toiletries, here are some of the items needed most:

• Peanut Butter, Nutella, Jams & Jellies

• Pancake mix & Syrup

• Cereal & Oatmeal

• Condiments

• Pasta & Sauce

• Instant Noodles / Mac N Cheese

• Granola / Cereal Bars

• Fruit cups, snacks, leathers

• Cookie/cracker snack packs

• Pudding packs

• Juice boxes

• Laundry & Dish soap

• Toothpaste, toothbrushes, fl oss, mouth wash

• Shampoo & Conditioner

• Toilet paper

• Diapers & wipes

We are also currently collecting coats for our Coats For Kids program. All coat donations should be new or gently used and in clean condition. We’re cur-rently looking for sizes 4T through adult XL. However and whatever you choose to give, we greatly appreciate your support and contribution. Tax-deductible receipts are available upon request, where applicable. For more information on any of our seasonal progams please call us at 250-388-5251.

Give the Gift of Good FoodThe Gift of Good Food fundraiser is underway and running until December 31st

2019. Fernwood Neighbourhood Resource Group is partnering with Community centres across the Capital Region to reach a goal of $100,000! This money will be used to provide 200 families with fresh fruit and veggies every two weeks for an entire year.

You can donate directly at https://thegoodfoodbox.ca/donate. If you would like your donation to support a specifi c neighbourhood or agency you can specify that on the donation form.

It's easy to start a fundraising team with friends, neighbours, staff, and/or families. Email melissa@fernwoodnrg.ca for more details.

250-384-6424wwww.cucvictoria.com

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Community NewsBurnside Gorge

December 2019, Volume 33, No. 12

Published by The Burnside Gorge Community Association

471 Cecelia Road, Victoria, BC V8T 4T4 Phone: 250-388-5251

Website: www.burnsidegorge.ca

Note: Written contributions do not necessarily refl ect the opin-ions of the BGCA or its staff.

BGCA Board of DirectorsGreg Arnold, Director

Elizabeth Cull, Vice-ChairAndrew Johnson, Director Benji Miskuski, Director

Michelle Peterson, Secretary John Sanderson, Treasurer

Avery Stetski, ChairJamie Van Delft, Director

To AdvertiseEstablish yourself as a community supporter with an ad in your community newsletter.

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

ContributionsThe BGCN welcomes submissions. Submissions are subject to editing as required for clarity and brevity. Please note that submission does not guarantee publication. Contact us for submission guidelines and deadlines.

Editor: Rachel O'Neill Email: rachel@burnsidegorge.ca Phone: 250-388-5251

About usFounded in 1991 in response to community need, the Burnside Gorge Community Association provides a continuum of programs and services that strengthen the lives of children, youth and families in Greater Victoria.

Programming includes: a range of childcare programs for ages 3.5 to 11; community and school based youth and family services; housing and asset development supports for youth and families; community recreation and special events for all ages; and a variety of community development initiatives.

As a non-profi t organization, we rely on the support of individuals, businesses and partner organizations to continue providing a high level of service to our communities. If you’re passionate about the work that we’re doing there are a number of ways that you can get involved.

Join our team! Want to join a fun and dynamic team? BGCA is a great place to work. To see current opportunities please see our website at:

http://www.burnsidegorge.ca/opportunities/employment

Volunteer!Do you have some time to spare and a passion for community? We’re always looking for volunteers to help out. Current opportunities are listed at:

http://www.burnsidegorge.ca/opportunities/volunteer

Become a member!Are you interested in being a part of our mission? Become a member and take an active role in shaping our community. For more information contact the BGCA directly at:

info@burnsidegorge.ca

Burnside Gorge Community News: December 2019

Connect & PrepareDo you live in a multi-unit apartment or condominium building? Are you interested in strengthen-

ing emergency preparedness and connections between your neighbours? The Connect & Prepare team are looking for groups of neighbours living in the same apartment/condominium building within the City of Victoria to be part of an exciting program called "Connect and Prepare". Through a series of facilitated workshops, and with the support of micro-grants, program materials, and resource people, you and your neighbours will:

• Learn about different kinds of potential emergencies;

• Participate in fun gatherings for socializing and discussing preparedness;

• Develop strategies to improve your individual and collective safety and resilience;

• Explore opportunities to become more connected and mutually supportive before, during and after emergencies;

• Receive a bundle of micro-grants and resources!

Resources include:

• Small micro-grants to help cover refreshments and other costs of hosting workshops

• A customized bin of shared emergency supplies for you and your neighbours, valued at $500

• Access to $200 in grants to launch other projects that build connections and preparedness with your neighbours

Interested? Up to four multi-unit buildings will be selected to participate! To learn more and fi ll out a simple expression of interest application. The deadline to apply is Friday, December 13th, 2019http://m.sgizmoca.com/s3/Connect-and-Prepare-Expression-of-Interest-2020

Connect and Prepare is based on the understanding that building social connections between neigh-bours is a critical foundation for becoming better engaged and resilient to different types of challenges, stresses and emergencies that may come our way either suddenly or gradually over time.

Celebrating Community VolunteersBGCA recently had a plaque installed on a bench in the new playspace in Cecelia Ravine Park to hon-

our and celebrate a long-time community member and volunteer. Kate Forster has lived in Burnside Gorge for more than 30 years and has been involved with the Association since it began in 1991. During her many years with BGCA Kate has edited and delivered the newsletter, chaired the Board of Directors, chaired the Land Use Committee, and taken on countless other roles as the need arose. She spent 15 years serving on the BGCA Board of Directors, stepping down in 2010.

Kate also worked tirelessly for the restoration of Cecelia Ravine Park including the removal of a septage facility and the daylighting of Cecelia Creek. Kate’s sense of community pride was, and still is, infectious. A strong community advocate, she has been able to rally those around her to achieve the highest good, laying a foundation for positive change in Burnside Gorge. We would like to thank and honour her for her commitment as a steadfast community champion.

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WINTER PROGRAMsAll programs held at Burnside Gorge Community Centre, 471 Cecelia Rd,

unless otherwise noted. Schedule is subject to change without notice – please call 250-388-5251 for the most current info.

Burnside Gorge Community News: December 2019

BURNSIDE GORGE COMMUNITY CENTRE

RECREATION PROGRAMS

PROGRAM REGIsTRATION

We have an exciting line-up of programs for all ages, from toddlers to seniors. To regis-ter for a program call 250-388-5251 or drop by the Centre in person. Pre-registration is required for all programs except those specified as drop-in. The Front Desk hours are 8:30am-5pm, Monday to Friday. We are closed on statutory holidays and weekends, unless noted otherwise.

Payment is required at the time of registra-tion and can be made by cash, cheque, credit card (VISA & MC), Debit or City of Victoria LIFE credits.

REGIsTER EARly TO AvOId

dIsAPPOINTMENT! Programs may be cancelled or postponed if there are not enough registered partici-pants. Decisions to run or cancel a program are usually made two days prior to the first class.

REFUND POLICY:

• For a full refund, request for with-drawal must be received at least 1 day prior to the first class.

• A full refund will be issued if BGCA cancels a program.

• If a participant withdraws after the first class, they will be refunded the pro-rated cost of the program.

• Withdrawing after the second or third class, the participant will be refunded the pro-rated cost of the program minus a $5 administrative fee.

• No refunds for withdrawals after the lesser of the 4th class or 50% of the course has been completed.

GET IN TOuch Do you have an IDEA for a program that you would like to see offered at Burnside Gorge Community Centre? Are you an instructor interested in running a program with us? Contact Travis Chater, Community Recre-ation Coordinator, at 250-388-5251 ext 225 or email travis@burnsidegorge.ca.

FAcIlITIEsThe Burnside Gorge Community Centre is located just outside downtown Victoria at 471 Cecelia Road, between Burnside Road East and Gorge Road East. Outdoor public facilities include the Cecelia Ravine Park, Sport Court and Bike Skills Park, adjacent to the Centre.

The Community Centre is readily acces-sible by public transit: buses #8, 11, 21 and 22 routes on Gorge Rd East, Jutland Rd and Burnside Rd East, run parallel or border Ce-celia Road. It is also easily accessible by the Galloping Goose Trail, which is adjacent to the Centre.

Activity GuideBurnside Gorge

FAMILY CENTRE DROP-IN

**Family Centre programs will be closed from Dec 4, 2019 - Jan 3, 2020. Regular progamming will resume on January 4, 2020.

Wiggles a nd giggles (Pa r en t a nd tot, 2-4 y r s) Join us for active play in the Burnside Activity Centre. Get the wiggles out with this new interactive

program that includes games, movement, and fun! The program includes organized games, movement, exercise, and free play. Best suited for ages 2–4 yrs; all children under 5 yrs are welcome. Caregiver par-ticipation is required. Family Centre will not be open during program time.M Sept 16 – March 23 9:30–10:15 a.m. Drop-in/Free

Fu n For lit tle ones (2-5 y r s) Enjoy singing, movement, reading and fun with your little ones. The program encourages child de-

velopment through singing, movement, stories and bonding between child and caregiver. Caregiver participation is required. Tu Sept 10 – Mar 24 9:30 - 10:15 a.m. Drop-in/Free

toddler arts a nd Cr a F ts (2–5 y r s) Explore your creative side! Each week features a different craft designed with the preschooler in

mind. Smocks and soap provided. Creative activities can be messy, so please dress children appropri-ately. Caregiver participation is required.W Sept 11 – Mar 25 9:30–10:30 a.m. Drop-in/$1 per family and daycare child

Pa r en t a nd tot Pl aygrouP (0 to 5 y r s)This is an opportunity for young children and their caregivers to meet and play in an informal atmo-

sphere with toys, and books. Snacks provided. Groups may not meet on school holidays and Professional Development Days. Drop-in/Free

M Sept 16 - Mar 23 10:15 a.m.–12 p.m T Sept 11 - Mar 24 10:15 a.m.–12 p.m. W Sept 11 - Mar 25 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m. Th Sept 12 - Mar 26 5:30–6:30 p.m.

Fa mily din ner & droP-in (Fa milies/Childr en 0-18 y r s)Families are invited for a delicious dinner prepared by staff and volunteers every Thursday evening.

After dinner, stay and have a play in the Family Center. Assistance with set-up and clean-up is appreci-ated. Dinner is served at 5pm. Suggested donation $2 per family.Th Sept 12 - Mar 26 Dinner: 5–6 p.m. Drop-In: 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

da d’s grouP (0-6 y r s)Welcome all Dads and your children under 6 to a new program designed just for you! We offer a

friendly atmosphere to learn together with other Dads to follow your child’s lead in play. Learn about your role in your developing child’s life, discuss parenting successes and challenges with fellow Dads, and enjoy free time, play, coffee, and snacks with your little one. Sa Jan 4 - Mar 28 1–3 p.m. Drop-in/Free

FAMILY CENTRE - REGISTERED

noBody's PerFeCtNobody's Perfect is a place where parents can:

MEET with other parents of young children (ages 0-5)SHARE questions or concerns and ideas about being a parentLEARN about child development, safety, health and behaviourTALK about real-life parenting experiencesWORK together with the support of a trained facilitatorDISCOVER ways of positive parenting

Within a group setting, parents participate in facilitated sessions that: • promote positive parenting

• increase parents' understanding of children's health, safety, and behaviour

• help parents build on the skills they have and learn new ones

• improve parents' self-esteem and coping skills

• increase self-help and mutual support

• bring them in contact with community services and resources

• help prevent family violence

Childcare will be provided. This is a registered program. Call today to book your spot, 250-388-5251. F Feb 7 – Mar 13 10 a.m.–12 p.m. 6/Free (registration required).

4Burnside Gorge Community News: December 2019

YOUTH

you th yoga (12 - 18 y r s)This vinyasa style yoga class is a great way to increase body awareness,

physical and mental health, and mindfulness. Increase fl exibility, balance and strength while focusing on your breath. Leave the class feeling ener-gized and calm. No experience required for this class – each class will in-clude descriptions and technical explanations. Come ready to have fun and move your body!Th Jan 16 - Jan 30 2:45-3:45 p.m. 3/ FREE ClassesTh Feb 6 - April 9 2:45-3:45 p.m. 10/$80 or $10 Drop-in

CliFFside you th droP-in (8 – 16 y r s) Bring your friends or meet new ones at the Cliffside Youth Centre. Activi-

ties include pool, air hockey, and foosball. Watch movies on a big screen in our unique theatre or join us on an out-trip to places about town. For more information on the Youth Drop-In nights contact Jaz Young, Youth Recre-ation Coordinator, 250-388-5251. Th Sept 12– Dec 19 5:30–8 p.m. Free

CAMPS

Ca mP surV i Vor sPr ing ser ies (10-15 y r s) This camp is packed with exciting activities such as; rock climbing, paint-

ball, swimming and more! If you are looking for a week of adventure and fun, this is the camp that won’t let you down. Registration packages will be available in the new year. Call for more information: 250-388-5251M-F Mar 16 - 20 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 5/$175M-T Mar 23 - 27 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 5/$175

sPr ing Br e a K Ca mP (5-11 y r s)Wondering what to do with your kids over Spring Break? Enjoy exciting

activities, great fi eld trips, and a nutritious afternoon snack. This licensed care facility offers quality care in a safe environment where children are treated as individuals. Please bring: Picnic style lunch, hat and sunscreen, water bottle, running shoes (no fl ip fl ops, clogs or high heeled shoes), appro-priate clothing for the day’s weather, bathing suit & towel. Hours: 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. dailyWeek 1 March 16-20 $175/weekWeek 2 March 23-27 $175/week Daily Drop-in $40/day (subject to availability)

ADULT – HEALTH AND WELLNESS

strong By Zu mBaPerfect for those who want to party, but put extra

emphasis on toning and sculpting to defi ne those mus-cles! The challenge of adding resistance by using Zum-ba® Toning Sticks (or light weights), helps you focus on specifi c muscle groups including arms, core and lower body. This class is open to everyone, no previous dance or Zumba class experience necessary. Instructor Sylvie Dowse W Jan 15 – Mar 4 5–6 p.m. 8/$80 $12 Drop In

Zu mBa Join us for one of the fastest growing Latin dance-inspired fi tness crazes

across the world! People of all ages are falling in love with its infectious mu-sic, easy-to-follow dance moves and body-sculpting benefi ts. Come dance to the rhythms of Salsa, Merengue, Mambo and other Latin beats. This is a fi tness class you will not want to miss! Instructor Ximena LondonoW Nov 13 – Dec 18 6–7 p.m. 6/$48 W Jan 15 6–7 p.m. Free Trial ClassW Jan 22 – Mar 11 6–7 p.m. 8/$64

Zu mBa gold a nd yoga Always wanted to Zumba but thought it might be too much for you?

This class combines gentle Zumba Gold dance and fi tness moves with yoga stretches, breathing exercises and deep relaxation. It is ideal for beginners, active older adults and other participants who may need program modifi ca-tions. Instructor Ximena LondonoT Nov 12 – Dec 17 10:15–11:15 a.m. 6/$48 T Jan 14 10:15–11:15 a.m. Free Trial ClassT Jan 21 – Mar 10 10:15–11:15 a.m. 8/$64

YOGA

all leV els yogaWith a focus on linking breath with movement, this class is designed to

ground and energize students. This vinyasa style class includes meditation so you can come back to the present moment and experience stillness. C ome ready to build strength, fl exibility and stamina! T Jan 14 - Mar 3 5-6 p.m. 8/$80 $12/Drop In

r estor ati V e yoga Longer holds in seated and reclined postures will bring the body into a

state of conscious rest. Developed to help with fatigue, insomnia, stress, grief and loss as well as self-care. Complimentary to active movement practices. Benefi cial to all. Sa Jan 18 – Mar 7 1:30–2:45 p.m. 8/$80 $12/Drop In

Xl-yoga Yoga for large people taught by a large person. The benefi ts of yoga – in-

creased balance, fl exibility, stamina, and relaxation are wonderful for ev-erybody. We’ll make the poses work for our bodacious and strapping bods using modifi cations and props (bolsters, blankets, and straps). Instructor Jill MoranTh Nov 14 – Dec 19* 7–8 p.m. 5/$50 $12 Drop In *No class Dec 5 Th Jan 9 – Feb 27 7–8 p.m. 8/$80 $12 Drop InTh Mar 5 – April 23 7–8 p.m. 8/$80 $12 Drop In

LEARN FOR LIFE

the sCienCe Behind ha Bit ma stery There are many myths about habits. The market’s full of claims of how to

strengthen useful ones or obliterate bad ones. Join us for a serious examina-tion of the science behind habits. We’ll unpack research into methods for the workplace, at the dinner table, at school, in relationships—just about any situation imaginable. In Week 1, we’ll walk through at least one promising technique. In Week 2, we unpack the results. M Jan 13 & 20 6:30–8 p.m. 2/$60

hoW ProCr a stination, in ner Cr itiCs & Cr e ati V e indeCision r e a lly Wor K - a nd hoW to Fight BaCK & W in!

This will be a wild and funny adventure, exploring our daily lives as we look at how these 3 “uglies” get in the way. Whether it’s for your writing, your art or just for everyday living—like when you can’t see your way past defrost-ing the pizza for dinner, there are some great tools to try out. Come along so you can leave these undesirables behind!M Jan 27 6–8 p.m. 1/$40

ha nd ma ssages For your he a lthReceiving a hand massage can provide you with signifi cant health ben-

efi ts. Hand massage typically is quick, relaxing and provides you with im-mediate health benefi ts, such as improved fi nger and wrist range of motion, enhanced circulation and reduction of your trigger points—hyperirritable nodules—in your hand muscles. According to Refl exology-Research.com, your hands contain many acupressure and refl exology points, which are as-sociated with your organs and certain parts of your body.

You will receive a 15-20 minute hand massage and learn why you have soreness/tenderness in certain parts of your hands.W Jan 15 – Feb 19 6–7 p.m. 6/$45

Catenos Ju n tos ChoirIn Spanish this means “Let’s Sing Together” Are you learning Spanish or

studied it in the past and would like to practice it? Is Spanish your native language? Come and join Marcelina and her guitar in an adventure into the Spanish and Latin America music culture. Let’s get together to sing songs from our folk and popular repertoire.T Jan 21 – Mar 10 1–3 p.m. 8/$60T Apr 7 – May 26 1–3 p.m. 8/$60

Active LivingActive Community

5 Burnside Gorge Community News: December 2019

55+

senior s lu nCh ‘n le a r n Socialize with other seniors in the community while enjoy-

ing a delicious and nutritious homemade meal. This program features a mix of guest speakers, social activities and theme ac-tivities during the holiday seasons. Call 250.388.5251 for more information.Th Sep 5 – Mar 26 12–1 p.m. Drop-In /$5

senior s Chr ist m a s lu nChEnjoy a delicious Christmas Lunch and the seasonal sounds of the Esqui-

malt Ukelele Club. Call today to sign up, 250-388-5251.Th Dec 12 12–1:30 p.m. $6

str ength, Conditioning a nd Ba l a nCe For 60+ The fi rst step is the most important! This well rounded program will focus

on activities to improve strength, balance, mobility and cardiovascular fi t-ness. A certifi ed BCRPA instructor will use light weights, resistance bands, fi tness props and a fun selection of agility games to improve overall fi tness. Have fun, make new friends and feel good about yourself. All levels of ability welcome. Instructor Janice ArnotTu Nov 4 – Dec 17 9–10 a.m. 7/$42 Tu Jan 14 – Mar 3 9–10 a.m. 8/$48

str ength a nd str etCh In this 60 minute class, we use small weights, bands and balls to strength-

en your muscles. We then spend time to ensure that each muscle group is stretched out. These exercises increase your strength, balance, and fl exibil-ity; which, increases your ability to walk and move with greater ease and cer-tainty. This class can be done sitting or standing. Instructor Helen DoughertyF Jan 10 – Feb 28 10–11 a.m. 8/$48

Monster Mash was a Scream!Submitted by Travis Chater, Community Recreation Coordinator

The 2019 Monster Mash at Burnside Gorge Community Centre was a ghoul-ish goodtime indeed!! Almost 100 people attended the family friendly af-

ternoon and took part in some fang-tastic activities. Thanks to all who came and supported the event. We hope you enjoyed yourself and we look forward to having you back next year!

A special thanks to Theresa James-Bates for managing the event and for her help in setting up the amazing backdrop to the photo booth. Japan Camera’s generous donation of the photography equipment enabled families to have some spooktacular photos taken! A huge thank-you to the Island Savings Community Crew who came and offered face painting and button making. Jaz Young, our Youth Recreation Programmer and youth volun-teers, Amelia Stallard and Sophie Ruhl, ran a delicious concession. A special thanks to students from Royal Roads University for volunteering their time and assisting with the activity stations. There were some great door prizes thanks to the generosity of Save On Foods Tillicum, Flying Squirrel Trampo-line Park and Villages Pizza Gorge.

Photo booth pictures are on a shared folder. If you have not already re-ceived a link to the site, please contact Travis Chater 250 388 5251.

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, tea & coffee service, and A/V equipment rentals, all at affordable prices. Nestled in Cecelia Ravine, our rooms also offer outstanding natural views and are accessible from the Galloping Goose Trail. Activity Centre: max 120 guests Board Room: max 8 guests$65/hr $240/half day $35/hr $110/half day $400/full day $180/full day

Education Centre: max 40 guests Group Room: max 10 guests$55/hr $180/half day $35/hr $140/half day $300/full day $220/full day

Non-profi t rates are also available. Call today to book or view our spaces, 250.388.5251 ext.224.

Burnside Gorge

RENTALS

Friends of Cecelia Ravine Work Party Join us for a work party in Cecelia Ravine Park. Work will focus on in-

vasive species removal. Please bring work gloves and wear sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Snacks and refreshments will be provided after the work party.

The Friends of Cecelia Ravine meet the fi rst Saturday of each month at the Burnside Gorge Community Centre, 471 Cecelia Road. The next work party will be held on Saturday, December 7, from 10am-12pm. Call the BGCA for info, 250-388-5251, or email at info@burnsidegorge.ca.

Help us Cram the Cruiser Every year students and staff from Colquitz Middle School partner with

the Saanich Police Department to collect donations of non-perishable foods and toys for BGCA’s Christmas Hamper program.

Please join us on Thursday, December 12th, from 9am-11am at Colquitz Middle School for our 2019 Cram the Cruiser event. The event kicks off at 9am and at 11am police cruisers will deliver the proceeds to the Burnside Gorge Community Centre.

6

BGCN

Burnside Gorge Community News: December 2019

'Tis the Season to be Savvy - a message from BGCA s FSS TeamSubmitted by Olivia Girolami, Family Advisor

The holiday season often seems more stressful than we’d like it to be. We’re pulled in many directions and we’re tempted to think that if we just buy the right gifts and enough of them, we can feel better about ourselves or that others will feel better about us. We know this isn’t true but it can lead us to spend

more than we can afford and pay the price in the New Year. If you would like to have a little less stress, a little more fun, and start the New Year off in better fi nancial shape than usual here are a few suggestions for your holiday planning.

1. Creative giving.Drawing names, gifting games, or trading quality time in the New Year can be great new traditions. You might agree to cook each other dinner at set dates

in the New Year, help a friend or sibling with a project, offer babysitting, snow shovelling, or family movie-night coupons, etc. Fancy home-made wrapping makes gifts seem more special, too! If you do decide to do this, it helps to let everyone know beforehand that you’re changing gears so they won’t expect the same gift giving behavior that was offered in the past. Think about what you remember most fondly from your own childhood holidays. Often times it’s the small but thoughtful gift, the kind gesture, the sincere letter that people remember, not the most expensive gifts.

2. Retail tricks!Retailers employ so many strategies to get you to spend your money. Loyalty cards, retail credit cards, decoy pricing, incentives to return to the store, and

constant sales are some of them. Plan your shopping and don’t give in to impulse buying or retailers’ tricks. Make up a mantra “I’m only going to buy this for this person today” and repeat it to yourself before going to the store or onto the website.

3. Take a time out.Go for a walk in nature or do whatever helps you relax and slow down. The constant sensory stimulation of the season takes its toll on our nervous system

and when we’re stressed we don’t make the best decisions, even if we did make a budget and get off to a good start. When we’re relaxed and happy, we may realize that we’d rather go see the harbour lights or bake cookies with those we love, rather than buy in to the hype of holiday spending.

4. Price gifts online. Then compare.Find general price ranges from websites such as mySimon.com or apps like shopsavvy. Find out if you can buy the same items locally. Don’t forget taxes,

shipping and other buried costs of buying online.

5. Create a holiday spending plan.Figure out how much money you can realistically set aside and stay as close to that number as you can. Don’t forget to budget in that extra festive food. If

you’re in a position where you need to use your credit card, make a plan to pay it off in a reasonable length of time. And try not to compare yourself to others as everyone has a unique fi nancial situation.

6. Track your spending on a daily basis. If you’re not in the habit of doing this, there’s no better time. This is absolutely essential to avoid overspending during the holiday season. You can do it quite

easily in 5 minutes at the end of the day. Save your receipts, add them up, and compare it to your spending plan.

We hope that you have a joyous Holiday Season.If you find it difficult to get a handle on your finances in the New Year, for whatever reason, give us a call. We have just the program for you. You

must have a housing subsidy and be supporting at least one child. To find out more about the Family Self-Sufficiency program or discuss your eligibil-ity, please call 250-388-5251 or see: http://www.burnsidegorge.ca/family-self-suffi ciency-program. We are currently accepting applications.

December at Point Ellice House Museum and GardensSubmitted by Dr. Kelly Black, Executive Director

December is a time of celebration at Point Ellice House. For the O’Reilly family, it was December 1867 when they moved into the house on Pleasant Street. December also brought the anniversary of Peter and Caroline O’Reilly’s marriage (December 15th, 1863), and the birth of their daughter, Kathleen (De-

cember 31st, 1867).

The O’Reillys often spent Christmas day calling on neighbours and family around the city. Many Christmas dinners were held at Fairfi eld, Joseph and Julia Trutch’s residence (located today at 601 Trutch Street). The family also attended communion at St. John’s Church (then located at Douglas and Fisgard Streets). Peter’s diary entry from December 25th, 1878 records:

Splendid day – bright and clear. We all went to St. Johns. Revd Jenns offi ciated. Holy communion…John [Trutch] came at 5 p.m. to know what hour we dined, lent him the pony carriage to drive Zoe [John’s wife] and Fanny over to dinner – they, Arthur Mc-Creaight and Jin-Win formed our party.

The family was not always together at Christmas. Peter travelled across British Columbia for work, keeping him away from the family for long periods. In December 1869, Peter was away on the mainland while Caroline remained at the house with toddlers Frank and Kathleen,and newborn Mary. Caroline wrote to Peter on December 14th, one day before their anniversary:

I wonder if you are thinking of this time six years ago. Do you remember coming to Fairfi eld for a few moments the morning before when you were on your way to Mr. Burnaby’s & I am sure you will think of it tomorrow. I feel anxious and worried about you this time you are away darling, perhaps because I am weak. Do take care of yourself formy sake…Now good bye my own dear love how much more so than ever six years ago.

Throughout the 1870s to the 1890s, the O’Reilly children were also away - at school in England,travelling in Europe, or working. In 1888, Peter found himself alone in the house while Kathleen, Jack, and Caroline were in England; Frank was working in South America.

Like most homes during the holidays, Point Ellice House could be a bustling site of activity - cooking, baking, card writing, holly harvesting, and hosting neighbours kept the family busy. At other times, the family was away and house labourers and maids maintained the grounds,fed the animals, and kept the house in order.

Many of the modern Christmas traditions in Canada trace their origins to the Victorian-era - Christmas crackers, cards, and trees to name just a few - and there is no better collection of Victoriana than Point Ellice House. For Christmas 2019, we are featuring special holiday displays, decorated rooms, lights, and a family-friendly craft table where you can make your own decorations; we invite visitors to experience the holidays as three generations of the O’Reilly family might have.

7 Burnside Gorge Community News: December 2019

Local Champions - Building Community from the Ground UpLocal Champions is a new community-based leadership development program for Victoria residents

to gain foundational skills, confi dence and relationships to become more active and engaged “local champions” in their neighbourhood or community.

As part of Local Champions, you will join a diverse group of participants from across Victoria for a se-ries of fun and interactive learning workshops between January- June 2019. Participants are supported by community mentors and apply their learning through a community-based practicum such as hosting a neighbourhood learning event.

The deadline to apply is December 13, 2019. Find out more and apply now to become a Local Champion in your neighbourhood, please see https://www.victoria.ca/EN/main/residents/Neighbourhoods/tools-and-resources.html

The Entrepreneurial Spirit is Alive and Well in Burnside Gorge Submitted by Sarah Wagsta�

On the evening of Friday November 22 and during the day on Saturday November 23rd Abeego Designs held its second annual Makers Market.

Thirteen vendors came together to showcase and sell their wares and notably four out of the thirteen were under the age of fi fteen. The event was held at 2716 Rock Bay Ave, which is both the head offi ce, retail space and production facility for the “Abeego’s”, the name fondly used by those who are familiar with the beeswax food wrappers.

The market was not your typical holiday craft fair due to its location be-ing in the offi ce used by Abeego’s sales, marketing and human resource team, which I imagine sparked the interest of many market goers. Toni Desrosiers is the inventor of the beeswax food wrap-pers and founded Abeego Designs in 2008. The wrappers were created as a plastic wrap alternative and a way to ad-dress both plastic waste and food waste as the wrappers are proven to keep your food alive longer than plastic wrap. The Abeego wrappers are now enthusiasti-cally sold and used world-wide.

We asked Toni what inspired her to invite the community into the space during what is the busiest time of year for her team (Abeego is a fantastic “green” gift under $20, so the holidays are the busiest time of year for the small but mighty Abeego team).

“It takes a community to raise an entrepreneur! I fi rst sold Abeego at the Moss Street Market ten years ago and today we’re selling Abeego in over 40 countries -- and it all happened from right here in Rock Bay. With commu-nity support, small businesses can make a big impact! Rock Bay is known for being this industrial neighbourhood, and it is. But it’s also home to a ton of creative people. There are galleries, eateries, furniture makers, and artisans of all sorts. Supported by this neighbourhood for the last decade, the Abeego Makers Market is our way of giving back by creating a space that showcases the amazing talent we have in our community. It’s a great way for us to come together and celebrate each other, too,”

Abeego Designs Inc. is located at 2716 Rock Bay Ave. and is actively open for business Monday through Friday 9:00am-4:00pm. Please visit them at www.abeego.com for more information and follow them on facebook and In-stagram for more event updates and fun times.

Thank You to Michell’s Farms Submitted by Jaz Young, Youth Recreation Programmer

The Burnside Outdoor Adventure Team (B.O.A.T) program had an AMAZ-ING Halloween Party where we carved pumpkins, decorated Halloween

crafts & danced to ‘Monster Mash’ throughout the evening. We would like to give a ghoulish THANK YOU to Michell’s Farm for graciously donating pumpkins for our party. The youth had an amazing time taking a break from the outdoors, carving spooky faces and playing with pumpkin guts! The fol-lowing week we went trick-or-treating at Hillside Mall and fi lled our bins with candy all the way to the top!!

In partnership with Colquitz Middle School, Burnside Gorge Communi-ty Association operates the B.O.A.T Program which provides students with indoor and outdoor opportunities to safely have fun, learn new skills, play games, make new friends and challenge themselves.

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Jeanne Socrates Visits Seniors LunchSubmitted by Travis Chater, Community Recreation Centre

Recently, participants of BGCA's Seniors Lunch and Learn Program were treated to a presentation by Jeanne Socrates. Amazing, incredible, as-

tonishing, are all understated adjectives when it comes to describing Jeanne and her journeys. Jeanne has made four successful circumnavigations of the world on her sail boat unassisted, nonstop, and by herself! In 2013 her adven-tures crowned her the oldest female to accomplish the feat. That didn’t sat-isfy her, so in 2019 she did it again and this time beca me the oldest person, at seventy-seven years young, to complete the voyage.

We were delighted to hear about some of the adversity she faced and some of the magnifi cent things she experienced while on board her boat The S V Nereida. Thank-you Jeanne for visiting our program and inspiring us all!

Be sure to join us on Thursday Dec 12 for our annual Seniors Christmas Luncheon. Turkey with all the fi xings will be served. Please contact Travis Chater 250 388 551 to be added to the list.

Jeanne Socrates with Seniors Lunch participants

8December Calendar ListingsHerbs for Healthy Aging

We will be gathering to taste herbs which grow in our local environment and are used to support the processes of aging, share the traditional uses of the herbs, and be guided by herbalist Jumana Risheq in western herbal knowledge and practice . Participants will share and be provided knowledge on the actions of the herbs that can be grown in the gardens, their history, and tools on how to use these herbs in day-to-day life in the kitchen, medi-cine cabinet and the garden. Each participant will have the opportunity to make a custom herbal mixture (infused oil or tea blend) to take home and work with at the end of our time together.

Friday, Dec 6, 2019 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. VIRCS/Victoria Social Innovation Centre, 1004 North Park Street.

Please RSVP to welcomegardens@vircs.bc.ca as spaces are limited.

39th Annual Dickens Fair

Hosted by the James Bay Market Society, the Dickens Fair has something for everyone. From treasures to toys, you will fi nd everything from great homemade foods to uniquely crafted gifts. This is an amazing opportunity to meet and support our local artisans, hear their stories and learn fi rst-hand how they make, bake and craft their wares. There will be an ATM on site for customer’s convenience. Admission: $2 - Children under 12 and accompa-nied by an adult are admitted at no charge. Sat, Dec 7 from 10am-4:30pm. James Bay Community Centre, 140 Oswego Street.

CMS Craft Fair

Join us at the 8th Annual Craft Fair hosted by the Central Middle School PAC. A wide variety of vendors from the local area will be showcased, in-cluding Central Middle School students. There will also be a raffl e, a food and drink concession and a bake sale. Ample free parking and is wheelchair accessible. Admission is by donation and money raised supports Central Middle School students. Saturday, Dec 7, 10am. Central Middle School Gym, 1280 Fort Street.

Wreath Making Workshop

Join Bespoke Blossoms at Point Ellice House Museum & Gardens for a wreath making workshop. Everything you need will be provided - including holly harvested from Point Ellice House. Admission to Point Ellice House included. Sunday, Dec 8, 1pm. For tickets https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/wreath-making-workshop-tickets-83250511521

Ghosts of Christmas Past: A Paranormal Investigation

Join Beyond Belief Paranormal and participate in an investigation of the many strange and ghostly encounters at historic Point Ellice House. Dec 13th, 7-10pm. For tickets see: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/ghosts-of-christmas-past-a-paranormal-investigation-tickets-79227364179

Victoria Etsy Artisans Holiday Event

Your Local Etsy Artisans come together for the First TWO Day Holiday Event! Saturday, Dec 14, from 10am-6pm & Sunday, Dec 15, from 11am-5pm. Tillicum Centre, 3170 Tillicum Rd.

Makehouse Pop-Ups - RuthandNelly

The Makehouse is hosting a series of Weekend Pop-Ups in December featuring local makers! Stop by on Dec 14& 15 and meet Darcie Zibin from RuthandNelly! Darcie makes unique handmade goods made with vintage and secondhand fi nds. Saturday 10 am-4pm (Talk/Demo 1-1:30pm) & Sunday 12-4pm (Talk/Demo 1-1:30pm)

https://www.facebook.com/events/2489309828061851/

Family Holiday Crafternoon

Join The Makehouse team Saturday, December 21st for a family crafter-noon! This event is designed to bring all generations together for an afternoon of holiday themed crafting. There will be stations set up to make ornaments, mini stockings, bunting by hand sewing or felting. There's lots of choice and room for creativity! $20/person, costs includes all materials. Saturday, Dec 21, 1-3pm. The Makehouse, #400-2950 Douglas St.

Makehouse Pop-Ups - Rad Juli Leather Designs

The Makehouse is hosting a series of Weekend Pop-Ups in December fea-turing local makers! Stop by on Dec 21 & 22 to meet Rad Juli Leather De-signs! Rad Juli creates quality leather bags, wallets and accessories made from offcut upholstery & boot leather that is sourced from local manufactur-ers.

Saturday 10am-4pm (Talk/Demo 12-12:30pm) Sunday 12-4pm (Talk/Demo 1-1:30pm)https://www.facebook.com/events/940929619595993/

12th Annual Cool Aid Labour Pool Coat Drive

It’s cold. It’s windy. And it’s wet. Some of your neighbours need warm clothing. Cool Aid clients need coats, jackets, mittens, gloves, hats, scarves, socks, sweaters, footwear, sleeping bags and blankets. Can you clean out your closet? Help make hundreds of people warmer, healthier and happier? Ev-erything you donate is given away. Drop your warmth off at Cool Aid’s Com-munity Casual Labour Pool, 465 Swift Street near Wharf, 9 to 3 on weekdays, until Monday, January 6. For more info call Wendy at 250-388-9296 or see www.CoolAid.org/labour

Christmas Victoria!

All are welcome to a Christmas Eve Community Service, hosted by Light-house Church. Come for Carol singing, hearing the Christmas story, followed by light refreshments and treats for the kids to take home.

December 24th, 4:00 PM, @ Centennial Church 612 David Streetwww.christmasvictoria.com

Museum Tots

This program introduces kids ages 3-5 to the fun environment of muse-um learning through games, crafts, and stories. Saturdays, Nov 2 – Dec 21, 11:00am - 12:00pm. Free with admission or membership. Maritime Museum, 634 Humboldt St.

Victoria Gingerbread Showcase

Nov 16th through Jan 5th, 9am - 9pm. This is the best tasting seasonal fam-ily event in Victoria! The Habitat for Humanity Gingerbread Showcase, pre-sented by Revera is the ultimate holiday treat. Come and view the sensational edible creations and donate to vote for your favourite, this year our bakers will be building a diverse community. All proceeds support Habitat’s afford-able homeownership program. Open November 16th to January 5th, Parkside Hotel & Spa, 810 Humboldt St.

Christmas at Point Ellice House

Visit Point Ellice House Museum & Gardens this December to experience Christmas in one of Victoria’s oldest homes. Special holiday displays, lights, and family-friendly crafts!

Saturdays & Sundays through to Dec 22, 12-4pm.

Wikipedia Edit-a-thon at Point Ellice House

The Electronic Textual Cultures Lab and the University of Victoria Librar-ies welcome you to join us for a community-based Wikipedia edit-a-thon at Point Ellice House! Our Honorary Resident Wikipedian, Dr. Erin Glass (UC San Diego), will start the day with an overview on open knowledge. Matt Huculak (UVic Libraries) and Michael Radmacher (Transgender Archives) will then lead participants in an edit-a-thon.

Wed, Jan 15th, 2-5pm.Point Ellice House (2616 Pleasant St). The event is free but registration is required: https://events.eply.com/PtElliceHouse

Burnside Gorge Community News: December 2019

From the BGCA family to yours, we wish you a safe and happy holiday

season.

9 Burnside Gorge Community News: December 2019

Cool Aid is working hard each and every day to improve the quality of life for everyone in our community.

With the holiday season almost upon us, many of us have much to be grateful for as we consider and celebrate our friends, families and community.

But for thousands of Victorians, the holiday season can be hard — a time of sadness when they’re reminded of what they don’t have or what they’ve lost — a well-paying job, a warm, safe and secure roof over their head, a loving family close by, or access to the health care and support they need to thrive.

With your help, Cool Aid can be there — during the holidays, and every other day of the year — to help rebuild lives by providing access to housing, healthcare, food security, a wide variety of

support services, and perhaps most importantly, a community.

At Rock Bay Landing, Cool Aid’s volunteer coordinator Michelle Latour has seen first-hand how challenging the holiday time can be for emergency shelter guests. But thanks to donors and volunteers, Michelle is able to coordinate a range of events in December to bring holiday cheer and hope to the individuals staying at the shelter.

There are many ways you can help your neighbours in need. Consider donating a hot breakfast to the guests at Rock Bay Landing where you and your colleagues, friends or family can serve the most important meal of the day to about 100 shelter guests. To learn more,

please visit CoolAid.org/breakfast. Donations of hot chocolate, warm blankets and clothing are also welcome.

Every year, Cool Aid’s Casual Labour program also coordinates a Warm Coat Drive. We welcome your donations of winter coats, sleeping bags, hats, gloves and socks. All donations can be brought to the REES office located at 465 Swift Street.

And of course, when you make a financial donation to Cool Aid you support our many critical programs.

CoolAid.org/donate

Donate$10 or more

CoolAid.org/warmerto donate

to Cool Aid towards the Winter Warmer and be entered in a draw to win fabulous prizes from the Rock Bay Food District, a group of local food and beverage producers, restaurants and shops including:

Singing Bowl Granola • Hoyne BrewingVic Food Guys • Jenny Marie’s Crackers

Bows and Arrows Coffee • AbeegoPoint Ellice House • Holy Homous

Driftwood Brewery • The Fat MacaronSaltchuck Pies • Ile Sauvage Brewery

The Mighty Cookie Company

A Home for the Holidays...

Team RBC at last year’s Holiday Meal

VicCoolAid Victoria Cool Aid Society

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