Gold River Buzz

Those of you who frequent the ice arena or the golf course will recognize Jordan’s familiar face.  I hope you enjoy his spotlight as much as I did, and oh – I do believe congratulations are in order as he is also a newlywed!

How long have you lived in Gold River? What brought you here?

I’ve lived in Gold River for almost 6 years. I came here for work.

What do you do for (paid) work?

I work for Western Forest Products at the Nootka Forest Operation office. I create and edit geographic data for WFP’s TFL 19 that I then use for conducting analysis and making the maps that go to the falling, yarding and road building crews as well as planning and forestry staff, First Nations and Provincial Government Ministries.

Please tell us about any volunteer work you do.

I’ve volunteered as Referee-in-Chief for Gold River Minor hockey on and off since I moved to town. As RIC I work with our young officials to teach/remind them of on ice positioning, signaling, answer any questions they have about the rules and help to guide them through those inevitable situations when parents and coaches voice their displeasure. This season I’ve been fortunate enough to have a awesome group of kids that I think are doing a great job enforcing the rules of the game as well as developing personal responsibility, confidence and integrity that I hope will help them on and off the ice well into their futures.

Please tell us a bit about your family.

My wife, Margie, and I have two young kids, Cooper and Claire. Cooper is two and a half and Claire is eight months old. They keep Margie and I very busy, but almost everything they say and do is hilarious.

Do you have any pets?

No pets, our family dog, Oakley, passed away late last year. We’re waiting for the kids to get a little older before we add another puppy to our already chaotic lives.

What do you like to do for fun?

For fun I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, until golf season… No, I’m kidding. This time of year I’m always a little anxious for the snow to melt and get back out on the golf course. I’m not a very good golfer, but I love trying to improve my game.

What do you wish Gold River had that it doesn’t? Is there anything missing for you?

I wish Gold River had another 9 holes on the golf course. Don’t get me wrong, I love the course the way it is, but a back 9 would be phenomenal.

And just for fun – if you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

If I could have any superpower I would definitely want to be able to move objects with my mind. I’d never get hit with a slapshot when reffing or miss a putt again.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I would like to add a big thank you to the Gold River Minor Hockey executive, team managers, coaches, time keepers, score keepers, referees, Maureen our Referee Assignor and everyone else that makes hockey possible in Gold River. I’d also like to take the opportunity to thank the 4 adults referees that came through and signed up to referee this year. Mike, Bruce, Colin and Cam – great job, thanks for being there and helping me out.

When I asked Haven if she’d be willing to be the next resident spotlight, I knew she was a little wary, but she was a great sport nonetheless!

Thanks so much Haven!  I know the Gold River Buzz readers will enjoy your answers as much as I did!

How long have you lived in Gold River?  What brought you here?

I moved up to Gold River from Victoria 3 ½ years ago with my husband, Jay, and our children; Ayden who’s 6 now and Dylan who’s 8.  Where would you move to if you could move anywhere?  We became willing to choose where we wanted to be and after that it was simply a matter of criteria.  Jay and I are Island children; so we didn’t cross the water.  It is a priority for us to be close to both Mt. Cain (patrol, snow sports, and the like) and the west coast (fishing, hiking, surfing, et al).  Gold River is the perfect base camp.

What do you do for (paid) work?

Well, I work for this awesome little gallery that opened up a few months ago (next to Village Video) and I’ve got a great title (owner) and loads of responsibility, I mean opportunities, but it can’t spring for paid staff yet!

Please tell us about any volunteer work you do.

In the past, I’ve enjoyed Light Urban SAR, SAR, and Volunteer Ski Patrol/First Aid.  However, it’s been challenging to involve my children and that is important to me.  Aside from Pitch-In Day, we look for ways to contribute that are meaningful for us and will probably try to find some things to do at Mt. Cain when Jay is doing his volunteering on the Patrol there.

Please tell us a bit about your family.

Jay and I have been together 11 years.  We met in OFA 3 class, naturally!  The kids and I are really happy to have him working in Gold River and coming home for dinner every night after working mostly out of town since soon after our arrival.

Ayden and Dylan have similar interests and enjoy the same activities (handy) though they are two very different personalities!  They do two combined paper routes on Friday mornings; I’m just helping.  Both chose to continue with homeschool and because I know this just doesn’t work for every family I’m very appreciative this works so well for us.  The boys enjoy playing with the local soccer teams and as they are avid readers they visit the library regularly.

Do you have any pets?

No.  No pets.  Yet.

What do you like to do for fun?

When I am feeling fun I like to; explore, do something new or unusual, or ride my bike (it’s a 599 Hornet).  Sometimes when the boys and I are feeling fun at the same time I’ll play the drum set while they get their groove on and/or play along for a bit of an impromptu jam session.

What do you wish Gold River had that it doesn’t?  Is there anything missing for you?

You know, I was thinking along these lines when I embarked on my little gallery adventure!  But what else…  Picture this.  I skip down my driveway carrying a blue box and add it to the others full of clean and sorted recycling.  Bundled and sorted are cardboard, including soy and milk cartons, mixed paper, hard plastic, soft plastic, metal and foil, and glass.  A truck pulls up and the driver hops out cheerfully to pick it all up.  Every other week.

And just for fun – if you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Maybe Aquaman’s abilities; I sorely miss diving and there’s some excellent spots off our coast here.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Yes, it’s me, “the knife lady”.

Loved it Haven – thank you again! :)  And don’t forget – you can visit Haven in person at Haven Gallery, and see all the wonderful works by our local artists!

People have suggested that I do a Resident Spotlight on the person I know best in the world – me!  Although I think even at 38 I’m still learning new things about myself each and every day.  (Like last month I learned that no matter how much time and effort I put into a rib recipe, ketchup and brown sugar still wins!)

How long have you lived in Gold River? What brought you here?

We came to Gold River in the Summer of 2003 for my husband Jason’s work.  He was the lone Constable up in Kyuquot (when Kyuquot was still part of the Nootka Sound Detachment) and would fly back and forth every week.  We were only here for a year however, as he was promoted to Corporal in September of 2004, and we moved to Ahousaht where we spent two years.  After Ahousaht, we spent a year in Kaslo (in the Kootenays) and when the Sergeants position in Gold River came open unexpectedly, we knew we had to go for it.  We’ve been back in Gold River since the Summer of 2007.  Gold River is classified as an LDP (limited duration post)  in RCMP terms, and it’s a four year post.  Four years will put us due out in the Spring of next year, 2011.  I’m not sure what will happen, but my husband is allowed a one year extension, and then the RCMP really does want you to move along.  A one year extension would enable Mikayla (our oldest) to graduate, but would leave Kristanna (youngest) facing entering Grade 12 in an unfamiliar community.  I don’t want to leave, and it is honestly not something I plan to consider until both girls are done school.

What do you do for (paid) work?

Currently I am the Program Coordinator for the Nootka Sound RCMP Victim Services.  I’m employed through Campbell River Family Services, but most of my referrals come through the RCMP.  No, my husband is not my boss – and I remind him of that daily!

I also still do some contract work for my old boss from Kaslo – he’s a business consultant, and I maintain his CRM software.

Please tell us about any volunteer work you do.

I was the secretary for the RWES PAC years ago, and have been on the GRMHA executive for the past two years – again in the capacity of secretary.  For the 2010/11 hockey season, I’ve stepped down as secretary, and now have the new title of Equipment Manager.  My husband will be the President, so as soon as I heard that I dropped my secretary position like a hot potato!  (I know him all too well.  He’s all yours now Barb!!)

Please tell us a bit about your family.

Jason and I have been together for 18 years and have two beautiful daughters, Mikayla (16) and Kristanna (15).  Jason and I met in Cranbrook (his hometown) as we were both attending College there.  Our story is really not all that romantic – we met in the bar on Pub Night.  I’m still pretty positive he slipped something into my drink….

Do you have any pets?

Oh yes!  The love of my life, our Great Dane Mattie!  He is a brindle Dane from an excellent breeder in Washington state.  In fact, three of his relatives appear in the new Marmaduke movie.  Two of which actually share the lead role!

We also have a ten year old cat named Missy who sleeps all day and coughs up hairballs wherever she pleases.

What do you like to do for fun?

For fun we like to spend time with family and friends, and over the years have spent a great deal of time out at Muchalaht Lake.  This has proved both good and bad in the past as many people assume that my husband should be dealing with whatever shenanigans go on out there while he’s on his holidays or days off.  I have used the explanation that were a Doctor to be out camping, I’m sure no one would expect him to be running around bandaging every scraped knee, but should something more serious occur, he would of course step in and help.

(Whoops – little bit of a rant there.)

We have also been blessed with being able to travel quite a bit the last few years as a family, and have enjoyed a few trips to Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel and Jamaica.

I will also be spending two months this Fall in Puerto Vallarta at a Spanish Language school.  I’ve always wanted to learn a second language (high school French doesn’t count), and we’d also like to retire in the PV area, so learning the language is the first step.  The condo I rented for the two months has internet, so nothing will change with the Buzz website.  It would be great however if y’all could keep a eye on my family (and pets) while I’m away – if any of them start looking unusually thin or dirty, please let me know.

What do you wish Gold River had that it doesn’t? Is there anything missing for you?

I agree with some of the other past remarks about needing a vet in town.  It would be comforting to know that in an emergency situation, help is close for your pet.  The other thing that I can think of is needing somewhere to buy more computer related items – flash drives, labels, ink, etc.

And just for fun – if you were invisible, where would you go / what would you do?

Honestly, I’m pretty snoopy.  I didn’t babysit much as a kid, but when I did, I was that babysitter who would go through your photo albums.  So I know if I were invisible I would want to snoop or spy.  (Hey – at least I’m being honest!) It’s not like I have anyone in particular in mind really, but you never know – the invisible me might be lurking at YOUR house soon!

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I would really like to thank the residents of Gold River for being so supportive and positive about this website.  I always feel that I’m not doing enough on it, but none of you ever make me feel that way, and I appreciate it very much!  To all of you who send thoughtful emails – THANK YOU – it means the world!

Kyra

Carol was one of the first people we met when we first moved here in 2003.  I can’t remember exactly when, but I’m almost positive it would have been out at Muchalaht Lake!  Carol is one of THE kindest and most caring people you could ever meet.  She is a fantastic friend and is always there to help anyone in need.  You are truly one of a kind Carol!

How long have you lived in Gold River? What brought you here?

This is the third time I have lived in Gold River. First time was in 1969 & 1970 when my father was working here building roads. I attended RWES for Kindergarten and grade 1 while 3 of my 4 older sisters attended GRSS.  After I graduated in 1983 I lived here for a year and worked as a Special Needs Assistant.  In 1999 my family moved to Gold River for the affordable housing and we wanted to raise our children in a small community.

What do you do for (paid) work?

I have two very rewarding careers in the Gold River area. The first, I am very proud to have been elected in 2005 to represent the district as a School Trustee. Secondly, I am a Stopping the Violence (STV) Outreach Worker who supports women and their children when they are in or have had an abusive relationship.

Please tell us about any volunteer work you do.

Since I moved to Gold River I have volunteered many hours to PAC’s at both schools, Grad Parent firewood & trip organizer, Chair of the Literacy Committee, Gold River Residents Association, Gold River Interagency, Hockey fundraisers, Leading Communities Participant and Celebration organizer (as a team player) and pretty much whatever groups my kids were in and there was a need, my husband and I would volunteer. As of June of last year I’ve had to step down and say “no” to my volunteer adventures due to health issues. I will continue to support my husband with Rod & Gun 3D Archery Shoot that takes place this year September 4th & 5th. My wish is to return to volunteering in the near future.

Please tell us a bit about your family.

I love my family. Brent and I have been married for 18yrs. He is a Heavy Duty Mechanic for WFP. He is always and I mean always helping people out. My honey do list is always on his back burner but he enjoys supporting friends and the community.

Our son Cody just turned 20 in April. He lives in Abbotsford and works full-time at Lordco. He attended the University of Fraser Valley last year to become a Physiotherapist but has since changed his mind.

Nikida our daughter will be 19 in November. After she graduated last June she moved to Nanaimo to be with her boyfriend Jesse. They are doing well working for Jesse’s mom in the industrial cleaning business that Jesse hopes to take over one day. They have 2 dogs Murphy(mastiff & wolf)  and Buddy (collie).

I miss my children dearly and I know I’m still going through the “Empty Nest Syndrome” even though there’s food in fridge and the house is clean…lol

Do you have any pets?

All our pets are named after chocolate bars, Oh Henry the dog, Snickers & KitKat the cats and a fish tank full of fish.

What do you like to do for fun?

For fun I like playing golf, camping, traveling (to see the kids) and spending time with our friends.

What do you wish Gold River had that it doesn’t? Is there anything missing for you?

When I was a child here in Gold River the bowling alley was always a family night out, so I miss that. I also feel we should be recycling more than we do already.

And just for fun – if you were invisible, where would you go / what would you do?

If I could be invisible I would have gone to all the Canucks games and would have stood behind Luongo and stopped all the pucks from going into the net, so they could have won the Stanley Cup! Maybe next year.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I’m pretty sure I have said enough but I would like to say the Gold River Community has always been supportive and caring when individuals or families have needed help. I’m proud to say “I live in Gold River!”

Thanks so much Carol – I loved your answers!  Especially the one about giving Luongo a helping hand!

I met Jim and his wife Carmel when we lived in Gold River the first time in 2003 – our kids are around the same age, and back then I believe the three girls were in figure skating together.  This time around, we’re all involved together in hockey hockey and more hockey!  Jim gives a lot of his time working with minor hockey, and will be doing so again for the 2010/11 season as Referee In Chief.  He’s a great person with a fun sense of humour – and I’ve even heard rumours that his karaoke voice is not too shabby as well?  Enjoy his spotlight!

How long have you lived in Gold River? What brought you here?

Since June 2003, so almost 7 years.  Work brought me to Gold River.  After the company I was working for ceased operations, I left my native Nova Scotia in the summer of 2001 to work for a fisherman coop in SE Alaska.  We ended up on an uninhabited island in SE Alaska where I managed a salmon hatchery.  There were us 4 and 2 other people on the whole island, which was accessible only by boat or float plane.  After a few years of playing Gilligan Isle, the women folk said “get us off this island”.  So they headed off to Nova Scotia for the summer, leaving me alone in Alaska to find a way off the island.  I headed to the internet and found a hatchery managers job for a company I had never heard of (Grieg) in a place I had never heard of (Gold River).  Sent my resume, got the job and the rest as they say is history.

What do you do for (paid) work?

I am the manager of the Gold River Hatchery for Grieg Seafoods BC Ltd.

Please tell us about any volunteer work you do.

As for volunteering, I am currently the referee in chief for GR minor Hockey, and coach the bantam division.  I was the president for a few years and have been involved with minor hockey since I came to Gold River.  I am also a volunteer fireman with the GR fire Dept.  In addition I am usually volunteered by my wife for various activities, school functions, BBQ’s at Supervalu, etc…

Please tell us a bit about your family.

Family consist of my lovely wife of 18 years Carmel.  We just had our 18^th anniversary last Sunday.   We have 2 kids, Matt whose 15, and Christina who is 13.  We are originally from a small town in Northern Nova Scotia called Pictou.  (That is pronounced Pick toe, not Pick Too.)  If you have ever taken the ferry to PEI from Nova Scotia, then you were in Pictou.  If you have ever been to the largest and longest running Lobster fisherman’s carnival, then you were in Pictou.  If you went to Citadel Hill, then you would not be in Pictou, you would be in Halifax.

Do you have any pets?

I personally do not have any pets, but my wife and kids have a hound named Jasmine.  She is a beagle Bassett cross, commonly referred to as a bagel.  She was rescued from death row in Los Angeles by the Powell River SPCA.  My kids found her on the internet, contacted the SPCA and found she was available.  I said no way under no circumstances am I going to drive to Powell River to get some dog.  So as I am driving to Powell River…..

What do you like to do for fun?

I like to fish, hunt, play hockey,  camping,  and getting firewood (yep I like to go out and get firewood, also the splitting, but not the stacking, that’s a pink job) (No I won’t come do yours, I don’t like it that much.)

What do you wish Gold River had that it doesn’t? Is there anything missing for you?

A good donair shop, Brothers pepperoni, and Humpty Dumpty Cheesies.  A donair is a Greek dish which was modified by a restaurant in Halifax in the 60’s.  It consists of spicy beef on a flat pita and piled high with onions, and tomatoes and a special sauce which has a sweet/ sour garlicky flavour.  It is not Tzatziki, and there is no lettuce or sprouts.  The whole thing is eaten like a wrap.  There are Donair shops all over the Maritimes.  I am told that there is a shop in Courtenay which does do an authentic east coast donair, with the sweet sauce and everything, but I have not verified this claim. The pepperoni comes from Chris Brothers Deli in Halifax, and really makes a pizza.  The Cheesies are simply addictive.  Seriously though. Since I am from a small town back east, I am used to what a small town offers, and in many ways Gold River offers much more than your typical small town.  I like the fact that people tend to look out for one another here.  When we first came here from Alaska, people would ask if we would mind the isolation, being in such a small town.  My response was if I can drive here, and there are more than 6 people, and I can pick up a take out pizza, then this isn’t isolated.

And just for fun – if you were invisible, where would you go / what would you do?

Invisible eh?  It has been suggested by others that I am not very spontaneous; I’m not going to say by whom.  I of course think I am very spontaneous, as long as it is carefully planned.  This is actually a very tough question, especially given the family nature of the Buzz.  Of course I immediately over think it, trying to look at it logically, and in a planned way.  OCD can be quite a drain on creativity.  To illustrate, my thought process would go something like this:  I would figure that Invisible would mean that you wanted to be somewhere to observe or participate in an event without being observed or detected yourself.  Now what event would I want to be part of without being detected?  If I wanted to be undetected, could I simply not hide?  But hiding would not be participating would it?  See the problem coming up with something?  I mean you could do something like go onto a golf course and mess with people’s putting, or you could go to some private exclusive Hollywood high mucky muck party to see if they really are worth going to.  Another thought would be to stow away on the space shuttle, or to follow Oprah around to see if she really does do what she tells everyone else to do on her show.  So you see I can’t come up with a single thing, totally blank here.  I guess I really did over think it.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I think the person or persons responsible for the GR Buzz is/are doing a fine job, whoever he/she/they may be.

Thanks for taking the time to put together such a great Resident Spotlight Jim!  I enjoyed it a lot, and I know others will too!