Monday February 20, 2023 ~ LANGFORD, BC
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
The weather is still cool in February on Vancouver Island. In fact, there’s a below-zero cold snap in the forecast for south Vancouver Island next week.
But people are enjoying this three-day long weekend (February 18 to 20), with today being the BC Family Day statutory holiday. Just time to relax, a nice lunch, or a short trip away… it’s a day off and long weekend without grand expectations.
“BC Family Day gives families the opportunity to spend time with their loved ones. The BC government is funding free virtual and in person Family Day activities throughout the province over the Family Day weekend. This makes sure celebrations are accessible for everyone.” There are free activities outdoors at the BC Legislature in downtown Victoria today, 9 am to 4 pm.
BC Family Day on the third Monday in February lines up with most provinces across the country, producing a welcome break with a long weekend in mid-winter. “BC Family Day is a time for joy & relaxation. Whether you choose to celebrate with friends and family, or enjoy time to yourself, wishing everyone a peaceful Family Day weekend,” as was posted this morning on Twitter.
BC Family Benefit boost:
Today on Family BC, the BC Government announced that more than 350,000 families in BC will get their second BC Family Benefit boost to help with the cost of living, starting immediatly. That’s in response to the financial squeeze brought on by inflation.
“Through the second enhanced BC Family Benefit payment, parents will have a little extra money this month to stretch their budgets and provide their family with life’s essentials,” said Finance Minister Katrine Conroy in a news release today.
Eligibility is based on income and number of children.
Leadership messages:
Families come in all shapes and sizes. Moments with young children are especially memorable. “Whether born into or chosen, family supports us in hardships, celebrates our victories, and drives us to accomplish the next steps in our dreams,” said Alberta Premier Danielle Smith today in social media.
As has been the tradition for a few years, BC’s Premier issues a statement on Family Day. This is Premier David Eby’s first Family Day in the top job, for which he posted a photo of himself on social media with wife Cailey and young children Ezra and Iva, saying that time with his family “are precious moments”. Premier Eby’s full Family Day message is posted below.
BC Liberal Leader Kevin Falcon posted on social media that Family Day is “an opportunity to rediscover our beautiful province and all it has to offer by spending quality time with family and friends”.
E-Comm 911 in BC posted: “A special thank you to all our call takers, dispatchers, technology specialists & support staff for working 24/7 to help keep our first responder partners and communities safe.”
Pets in the mix:
For many, pets are a big part of their family. “Whether you are with your family, friends, pets or having a day of self-care by yourself today, we hope you have a wonderful day,” posted WorkLink Employment Society here on the west shore.
The Juan de Fuca Emergency Program reminds people to include an emergency kit for their pets, among their year-round emergency preparations.
Industry sectors:
Some industry sectors have jumped into the Family Day social media frenzy. For example, BC Dairy posted that “dairy farming is really a family affair as 98% of dairy farms are family owned and operated”.
Midwifery:
Timed ahead of Family Day weekend, last week the BC Government announced 20 more post-secondary seats for training more midwives in BC.
Premier David Eby’s Statement on Family Day 2023:
“Family Day is a wonderful opportunity for us to gather with friends and family.
“The days are getting longer. Spring is around the corner. We have all been through a turbulent time, yet we have persevered by taking care of one another. Let us all enjoy this chance to share food and stories and to take some time to appreciate the simple pleasures of life.
“I always look forward to being with my wife Cailey and our children Ezra and Iva. Those are precious moments. I encourage everyone to find the time to enjoy the company of your loved ones.
“From my family to yours, I wish you a joyful and peaceful Family Day.”
====== RELATED:
BC Family Day statement by Premier John Horgan (Feb 21, 2022)
Esquimalt-Metchosin MLA Mitzi Dean reviews constituency accomplishments (February 21, 2022)
BC Family Day coming up February 21 (February 11, 2022)