


Exercising is Hard!
Keeping up with a routine can be difficult in the best of times. So, how in the world is someone supposed to stay on top of their exercise schedule during COVID-19? Gyms haven’t been open long, and all the convenience of dropping in whenever at the VIU gym to shoot hoops, or do a workout, … Continued

Playing Across Borders:
VIU students have grown accustomed to change over the past six months. Oftentimes, the changes have been unexpected and out of their control. One particular group of students that has had to face more unexpected challenges than most—ones domestic students may not—are international student athletes. Student athletes who have arrived in or returned to Canada … Continued

October Horoscope
Aries (March 21 to April 19) You need to slow down. Like really, stop whatever you’re doing and take a deep breath. It must be hard juggling six classes, two jobs, 3 clubs, and hiking Mount Benson at 5 am every morning, but you really need to slow down and take some time for … Continued

Queen & Slim
The film Queen & Slim written by Lena Waithe and produced by Melina Matsoukas is a provocative, timely drama of crime pursuit. It is a fearless reflection of the present day issues of race in America. The movie’s opening scene is at a diner in Ohio where the main characters, Queen (Jodie Turner-Smith) and Slim … Continued

Pedal to the Metal:
Pump up those tires and clip on that helmet—it’s GoByBike Week in BC. GoByBike BC, formerly known as Bike to Work BC, runs from September 28–October 4. The event calls attention to the importance of healthy transportation for adults and children alike, encouraging people to record their cycling trips online during the week. It’s been … Continued

Healthy Lentil Curry
Yes, it’s true that summer is over. Cozy sweaters, colour-changing leaves, and fall cuisine are all positives we can look forward to. I’m reminded of all my favourite fall dishes I like to cook. I’m not much of an inventive chef, but I’m constantly browsing the internet for easy, delicious, and healthy meals. My recent … Continued

Lantzville Flowers
Last summer Jenny Dawson began her journey selling self-grown, organic flowers from her farm in Lantzville. Her enthusiasm for finding a balance between business and sustainability was obvious when I spoke with her on her farm. “It’s a hobby that will take me into retirement,” Dawson said to me as we strolled around the eleven … Continued

OK Zoomers
Well, week two of being “back” to school has come to a close and surely you’ve all had the privilege of attending anywhere from one to 25 Zoom classes or maybe even popped into some “office hours” that were definitely not awkward. Are you a fan of the gallery view or the speaker view? Personally … Continued

How to LFH (Learn From Home) Like a Pro
At the beginning of the year, when attending class meant climbing the 403 steps at VIU in the dreary, pouring rain of January, the idea of studying from home sounded like a pretty good gig. Blankets. Snacks at your disposal. Not having to wear pants. Dreamy, right? Fast forward nine months, and we’re quickly finding … Continued

VIU Helps Students Stay Active
So, you’re an active person. You were a frequent sighting at Vancouver Island University’s weight room or participated in intramurals like basketball and volleyball—maybe you even took advantage of VIU’s Outdoor Recreation program. The good news is these options are still open to you, only they’ll look a little different this year. VIU’s weight room … Continued

VIU Mariners Hopeful for Spring Seasons
They all knew the news was coming, but it didn’t soften the blow. Partway through the summer while the world watched COVID-19’s steady spread, players, coaches, and staff of the Vancouver Island University Mariners soccer and golf programs learned their national championships for 2020 were cancelled, along with all competitive play for the fall. Questions … Continued

Comfort Bread
Well, I’ve been waiting for the time when we’re all holed up with time to actually cook. Humour me and give some new recipes a shot in between online classes this week. Besides, is there anything more comforting than a thicc loaf of focaccia bread? Unless you’re GF, in which case please avert your eyes. … Continued

A Hidden Gem: Input Cowork
I’d walked past Input Cowork in the heart of downtown Nanaimo many times before I decided to go inside to check it out. It’s Nanaimo’s only tech and design-focused co-working space, and I was unsure if I would fit in. But upon entering, I was pleasantly surprised. I was greeted by their Community Manager, Adelaide … Continued

Nanaimo’s Own: Good Life Juice
Good Life Juice is the only one of its kind on Vancouver Island; creating raw, unpasteurized juices meant to pack your body full of nutrients. Good Life Juice was started by Andrea Dershin in 2014, and she couldn’t be more thrilled with the growth and evolution of her company. Dershin started out by making juices … Continued