2014
11th Annual
Peninsula
women Business IN
Supplement to the
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Women In Business
March 5, 2014
Donna Finlayson Wine Kitz Donna and her husband, Derek, proudly own and operate the Wine Kitz store in Sidney, celebrating their 12th year in business in 2014. Donna was born on the Prairies and fell in love with Sidney on her first visit to the Island in 1995. Donna has been dealing with people, on a professional level, for over 37 years. She enjoys helping others and has a genuine love for people. This is evident from the first time you walk in the store, upon a return visit, or just simply meeting up somewhere in Sidney. Donna will greet you with a warm and friendly smile and, quite likely, extend to you her Prairie girl handshake. Wine Kitz has been in existence since 1959, starting the industry in Vancouver under the name of “Wine Art”. As a member of the Andrew Peller Limited family, Wine Kitz develops and manufactures it’s own “exclusive wines” with grapes sourced from vineyards and wineries around the world. Wine Kitz continues to lead the industry and stands confidently behind the quality and consistency of their product. Donna and her husband have won awards locally and in the World’s largest International Amateur Wine Competition hosted by WineMaker Magazine. Whether you are a home vintner, or make wine on-premises, Donna invites you to visit their store and enjoy the experience of making award-winning wines. Like food, there are wines for every event in your life! Whether you enjoy a glass of wine occasionally or have a wine cellar your friends would envy, Wine Kitz can help you enjoy your favourite wines, all for a fraction of the cost of commercial equivalents. Visit their website often to obtain information on their wine products which includes Limited Release wines, special discounts and in-store promotions. Business Hours: Tuesday to Friday - 9:00am to 5:30pm and Saturday 9:30am to 5:00pm. Closed Sundays, Mondays and Statutory Holidays.
#5A - 2042 Mills Road West
SIDNEY
250.654.0300
www.winekitzsidney.ca
March 5, 2014
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or the last 11 years, the Peninsula News Review has presented some of the people — the women — behind some the Peninsula’s best-known businesses, as well as local personalities and movers and shakers. Most of all, these women have been leaders in the community, helping to shape the places we call home and create a place in which we all want to live, work and play. The 2014 special supplement to the News Review focuses on local women and their role as leaders in the community — what
Q &A What business do you own/are involved with? For how long? I have had the honour of working for the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation for 15 years and still enjoy my position to the fullest.
What role do you and this business have in shaping your community? My capacity in this role allows me to meet lovely and interesting individuals who contribute generously to the hospital to gain up-to-date services and medical technology for residents in this community. What role do women have in making this a better place to live, work and play? Support the local community, we have
they think women can contribute as leaders and advice they can offer to others wanting to be involved in their community — in business and in their volunteer time. Women play an important role in the Peninsula’s business community, in ownership, operation and development of local enterprise. Their hard work in their own fields and alongside others in the communities they serve, contributes to the overall well-being of the Peninsula.
Lesley Webb
great resources and excellent opportunities to enjoy fulfilment of life. In what way can women be leaders in their community? Get involved, work hard, join a group, meet people — you’d be surprised at how many new friends you can make. What do you enjoy the most about your community? So many things to list – the space, kayaking, cycling, hiking, shopping and of course great coffee shops. Everything is here. In your view, what does this area need the most? Bike lanes – I guess that gives my method
of transportation away. What is the next project, initiative or challenge you would like to tackle? My yard work — it’s never ending. And I’d like to learn a new language – probably French. What advice can you offer women who are looking to become involved in their community? There are so many organizations on the peninsula that have opportunities to volunteer for whether it is the Foundation (yes we love volunteers), the hospital, the schools, a service club, the list goes on and on. Choose your interest.
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As one one of of Vancouver Vancouver Island's Island's most most recognized recognized interior interior design design firms, firms, the the team team at at As Kimberly Williams Interiors has been Kimberly Williams Interiors Ltd. brings brings innovative innovative design design talent, talent, expertise expertise and and certification certification Kimberly Williams Interiors Ltd. toVancouver your residential, residential, commercial commercial or or green green project. project. your an instrumental part of theto Island Interior Design community for KIMBERLY WILLIAMS Principal Designer Designer KIMBERLY WILLIAMS -- Principal the past 27 years. Creating timeless, Kimberly stepped into the world of interior design design in in 1987 1987 Kimberly stepped into the world of interior unique, and beautiful interiors for our with the the inception inception of of Kimberly Kimberly Williams Williams Interiors. Interiors. From From a a oneonewith clients continues to be our main goal woman consulting service to one one of of BC BC best-known best-known woman consulting service to when working design closely with individuals. full-service design firms, her creativity creativity and and determination determination full-service firms, her With a diverse portfolio, our worknumerous have helped her complete numerous residential residential and and commercial commercial have helped her complete projects garnering international recognition. Drawing inspiration projects garnering international recognition. Drawing inspiration spans from Residential Design, to from the natural beauty of Vancouver Island, Kimberly has from the natural beauty of Vancouver Island, Kimberly has Commercial Design, and also includes created a a trade-mark trade-mark aesthetic aesthetic that that is is both both innovative innovative and and created Hospitality Assisted Livingfrom projects. timeless.and With support her skilled skilled team team of of designers, designers, timeless. With support from her Attention to detail, and respect for theher Kimberly continues continues to to expand expand her business business and and make make KWI KWI a a Kimberly strong part partare of the the local localthat community through volunteerism volunteerism and and a a focus focus on on the the environment. environment. environment, elements are strong of community through With over 20 years of experience, Kimberly’s passion for design only grows stronger, With over 20 years of experience, Kimberly’s passion for design only grows stronger, maintained in each and every project. finding fresh fresh new new ways ways to to meet meet all all her her clients’ clients’ needs. needs. finding
Throughout our years, we have forged AMBER KINGSNORTH RID, LEED LEED AP AP relationships withAMBER many of the top KINGSNORTH -- RID, Specializing in commercial commercial design, design, Amber Amber puts puts her her technical technical abilities abilities and and Specializing in suppliers and installers throughout problem solving skills to use in seeing large-scale projects to completion. problem solving skills to use in seeing large-scale projects to completion. Greater Victoria and the Saanich She easily easily combines combines aesthetics aesthetics with with function, function, and and her her passion passion for for She Peninsula. KWI ensures quality and long-lasting design reflects reflects her her dedication dedication to to quality quality and and care care for for the the long-lasting design craftsmanship in each project, by With environment. With four four years years at at KWI, KWI, Amber Amber has has achieved achieved both both her her LEED LEED environment. accreditation and NCIDQ NCIDQ certification certification and and sees sees every every project project as as a a new new working with localaccreditation trusted companies and learning opportunity. opportunity. and maintaining alearning close involvement to each project.
The KWI KWI team team includes includes two two other other talented talented Designers, Designers, Chantelle Chantelle The McLarty & Leah Painter (currently enjoying maternity and McLarty & Leah Painter (currently enjoying maternity and Continuing education and product personalkeeps leave) as well as the support support of of Wendy Wendy Marks, Marks, Karen Karen personal leave) the knowledge our as teamwell upto-as date Fraser and and Carmen Carmen Bauder.Together, Bauder.Together, our our team team creates creates a a design design Fraser with the newest products to serve you experience tailored tailored to to each each of of our our Client's Client's individual individual needs. needs. experience
better. The KWI team includes Kimberly Williams, Elaine Martel, Lindsay Smart, Seafirst - Brentwood Bay Proud Member Member of of TheInsurance Canadian Green Building Council Council The Canadian Green Building and Carly Ringstead.Proud Photo by Terrance Lam Creative Services
KIMBERLY WILLIAMS WILLIAMS INTERIORS INTERIORS L LTD. TD. KIMBERLY 7174 W. W. Saanich Saanich Rd., Rd., Brentwood Brentwood Bay, Bay, BC BC V8M V8M 1P6 1P6 tel tel 250.652.6488 250.652.6488 kimberlywilliams.ca kimberlywilliams.ca 7174
Q &A March 5, 2014
What business do you own/are involved with? For how long? I have been in business for over 32 years. I started out with a focus on prior learning assessment and because of that, expanded my business into organisational development. I am the owner of Susan Simosko Associates Ltd.
What role do you and this business have in shaping your community? I’ve been involved in a lot of things — Sidney Sister Cities, the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, Town of Sidney commissions, Star Cinema and the BIA (Sidney Business Improvement Area). I really want to make Sidney a more busy, friendly and forward-thinking place. I would like to see more people involved, to come out and be more informed. We need to keep growing the town’s vitality — creating a sustainable community for living and working. What role do women have in making this a better place to live, work and play? In general, I think women are more collaborative and as a result, influence the way we do things. I’d like to see the community solve more of its problems collaboratively. In general, if a group has more women involved, they can have a different tenor. This
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Susan Simosko
is not meant to penalize men — I enjoy working with men as well and I don’t want to discourage that. In what way can women be leaders in their community? They can run for public office, offer to be on boards or other organizations and volunteer for many things in the community. It’s limitless how women can contribute. There are issues of work-life balance but it’s about expanding parts of your life and I encourage people to find out what works for them, mentally and physically, to make them comfortable with their life. I enjoy being in the hub of activity and contributing to an effort bigger than myself. I also try to fit in one hour of exercise each day — that goes hand-in-hand with my other activities and work. What do you enjoy the most about your community? We have so many cultural and recreational opportunities — the Mary Winspear Centre, community arts council, Panorama (Rec. Centre), kayaking — those are very satisfying for me. And Star Cinema — where would we be without it? I want to be able to use my skills to make a difference and all it takes is to step up.
In your view, what does this area need the most? We do need more people to come forward — we need more volunteers in local organizations. As a business community, we need to work together to face new challenges, such as new shopping areas on the horizon in Central Saanich and North Saanich. There are opportunities in change — we can draw more people to Sidney as they come to the Peninsula to shop. What is the next project, initiative or challenge you would like to tackle? I’m trying to write a book. It’s hard to set aside time to write it. It is a challenge, I have started it — a contemporary version of my first book, Earn College Credit For What You Know. I’ve also volunteered on the Town’s ad hoc work plan committee. What advice can you offer women who are looking to become involved in their community? Find something you really like — or find someone you know and ask, ‘What can I do?’ There are just endless things to do out there. I’m willing to talk to people about anything. There’s just something about being active.
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Women In Business
March 5, 2014
IN-HOME AND STUDIO CONSULTATIONS BY APPOINTMENT
Studio: 250-656-7659 Cell: 205-889-4585 Paula Grypma specializes in window coverings and soft furnishings because she believes they are the jewels of any room. Get them right, and your room will feel and look complete. Years of experience in the business have taught her that personal care is the best way to ensure her clients get exactly what they want. More recently, clients have invited Paula to work on their larger design projects from a macro point of view. From a small powder room update to a major home renovation, her role is to help them to make many decisions, often very quickly: Space changes; flooring, countertops, cabinetry, paint and wallpaper – all are considered. She likes to use natural products whenever possible, manufactured in North America, that harmonize beautifully with existing and new interiors. She always calls on the best local trades people for every step in the design process: from taking down to building up and finishing off.
West Coast Realty
Custom Drapery, Upholstery and Mirage Retractable Screens for doors and windows and other finishing details are also offered by Paula at Outlooks Design. A phone call or email away. . . consultation bookings are available either in your home or at the Studio. Form follows Function, beautifully! 102 - 9840 FIFTH STREET (BEHIND THE BEAUFORT BUILDING)
pgrypma@shaw.ca • outlooksdesign.com
Peninsula Resident Realtor for 25 Years!
Real Estate is one of the largest investments you are likely to make – and, like any investment, you want to entrust that investment with an experienced professional. This is where Inez comes in. Inez began her Real Estate career in 1988, is an Associate Broker, has her Fellow of the Real Estate Institute (FRI) designation and is the recipient of Awards for sales in 2013 from both the Victoria Real Estate Board and Sutton Group. Above all, Inez listens to her clients and puts their needs first. So, next time you are thinking of buying or selling, let Inez work with you in obtaining that goal, because Inez believes in…
“The Professional Approach to Real Estate”
Call today and see what a difference the right agent can make!
Inez Louden, FRI Direct: 250-652-7707 Cell: 250-812-7710
• Associate Broker
March 5, 2014
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The dedicated women at Salvador, Davis & Co., Notaries Public are the kind of people you would like to have as daughters and friends. For 28 years, Salvador, Davis & Co. has handled real estate conveyancing, mortgage re-finances, wills and estate planning needs for their clients. Laurie Salvador, our senior partner, served 9 years as a Director of the BC Notaries and the Notary Foundation. She has developed and taught the Practical Training Course on Estate Planning for graduates of the SFU Masters of Legal Studies designed specifically for new notaries entering practice. Laurie sits on BC Law Institute committees for legislative change in the area of Undue Influence and the Common Law Test of Capacity. She keeps the office current on changes in health care and estate legislation, particularly since there were major changes to health care and estates legislation in 2011. Partner, Lisa Ehrlich ensures that the office has the most up-to-date technology, offering clients conveyancing and re-financing paperwork with efficiency and precision. Whether you need a new Will, Power of Attorney, Representation Agreement for health care or you are buying or selling a home, the staff at Salvador, Davis & Co. are ready to assist you with a warm welcome. Whatever the reason you are coming to us, we want to make you feel at home.
Suites 101 & 103, 9830 Second Street, Sidney, BC, V8L 3C6 Phone (250) 656-3951 Fax (250) 655-0878 s-d@salvador-davis.com www.salvador-davis.com
Real Estate Transfers,
Health care advocacy
Wills, Powers of Attorney,
Bookkeeping services
Representation Agreements Notarizations
Personal financial management
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March 5, 2014
Hazel Mowat - Manager
Hazel Mowat brings over 27 years of lingerie experience, professional bra fittings and knowledgeable service. Hazel is known for her welcoming and friendly customer manner. Along with her team Bea, Lorraine and Liz, they will lift you into the Spring and Summer seasons with new colors, designs, and ever so comfortable bras, lingerie and loungewear. Watch for our new selection of Bedhead, Calvin Klein nighties and PJ’s in our more spacious surroundings. Proper fitting bras, and panties make for a more fashionable silhouette. Toss out those old bras that never seem to fit just right....come in for a proper fitting and enjoy the feeling of comfort and looking more fabulous than ever. Drop by for a visit and a browse all the new and beautiful lingerie fashions. We offer complimentary gift wrapping with your purchase. Let us know if you saw this ad and receive a “Forever New” lingerie washing sample.
&Lace
Sweet Talk
Professional Bra Fittings
A new ‘Image’ is waiting for you. 2424 Beacon Ave., Sidney 250-656-1002 sweettalkandlacelingerie.ca
Elaine Hughesman, CPA, CA Elaine Hughesman practices as a Chartered Accountant in beautiful Sidney by the Sea. She provides a high level of personalized service to her clients, recognizing that each person’s needs are varied and always changing. Elaine is dedicated to working with business owners to not only save taxes but also to help their business develop and grow. Personal tax clients will benefit from the same dedication and personalized service. Believing in the importance of giving back to her community, Elaine is the Treasurer for the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. She encourages all businesses to become a member of the Chamber and experience the benefits of the network. She is also Treasurer for the Saanich Peninsula Foundation, an organization which maintains endowment funds used for a multitude of charitable activities on the Saanich Peninsula. Elaine, together with Scott Hale, CPA, CA, operates Hale Hughesman, Chartered Accountants. They and their staff offer professional, proactive accounting services and business advice, covering all aspects of your business from tax and financial statement preparation, to cash flow management and beyond. They are passionate about what they do and take pride in providing a high level of personal service to all of their clients. Existing clients often comment on the great customer service they receive from start to finish. Elaine Hughesman is accepting new personal tax and business clients. With tax season in full swing and personal taxes due April 30th, contact Elaine at 250-656-3991 to set up a complimentary meeting.
Toll Free: 1.800.286.1212 Ph: 250.656.3991 9768 Third Street, Sidney B.C. V8L 3A4 elaine@sidneyaccountants.ca
Fx: 250.656.6486
Q &A March 5, 2014
What business do you own/are involved with? For how long? I have been involved with the Sidney Lions Food Bank as the Executive Director for 14 years.
What role do you and this business have in shaping your community? We strive to offer nutritional and emotionally supportive service for the community to rely on and to provide that service in a non-judgmental environment. What role do women have in making this a better place to live, work and play? The majority of the volunteers at the food bank are compassionate and dedicated women who strive to offer this invaluable service to the community. I  am fortunate to also have equally dedicated male volunteers who give freely of their time to help facilitate the running of the food bank as well. In what way can women be leaders in their community? I believe that women are every bit as
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Bev Elder
capable and dedicated to their communities as their male counterparts. We strive to become involved and to learn how best to set examples for our communities. I have always believed that you cannot instrument positive change unless you are willing to be present and available to learn how best you might be needed. What do you enjoy the most about your community? I find after 14 years in this position, I am still taken aback by the caring and kindness of the people who support the food bank day in and day out. As a whole, the people interactions that I enjoy every day are what make this career a truly enjoyable one. In your view, what does this area need the most? I believe that this community, like so many others, needs more affordable housing. It is very unsettling that in an area such as ours, many families are struggling to raise their children in very substandard housing situations.
What is the next project, initiative or challenge you would like to tackle? Our main project this year will be the same as last. We strive always to get the community involved and to be supportive of helping us to provide the most nutritious food we can to our clients. Our community is extremely generous through out the Christmas holidays, which is wonderful. However, we want everyone to realize that our clients are hungry all year long and that anything that they can do or anything that they can donate the rest of the year will make an appreciable difference to many. What advice can you offer women who are looking to become involved in their community? There are many places for women to volunteer all over the Peninsula and it has proved time and again to be a terrific place to meet new people and a great way to make yourself feel like you are making a difference in the lives around you.
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Meet Robyn.
Robyn Dosouto, Store Manager Some people take years to discover their career path and passion; for others, it arrives bright and early. So it was for Robyn Dosouto, manager of Thrifty Foods in Sidney. Robyn initially came to Thrifty Foods’ Saanich Centre location for her Grade 9 work experience. Once there, she loved it so much, she never left! Appreciating the friendly, family atmosphere at Thrifty Foods, Robyn was hired as a cashier, where she enjoyed the camaraderie of her fellow employees, and the friendly familiarity with customers. “It’s was a lot of fun and I was attracted by everything Thrifty Foods stood for. I never expected to stay; they just made it too hard to leave!” Over the coming years, Robyn would work her way up to front end manager, then an assistant store manager, then a Retail Operations Assistant, liaising between five locations and the vice-president of Thrifty Foods. Most recently, though, she has been a store manager, becoming the company’s second woman to head a Thrifty Foods store, following colleague Lisa Trotter as Thrifty’s first female store manager at Admirals Walk. “There are more and more opportunities for women every year,” she notes. Robyn thrives on the responsibilities of running a store, enhancing the shopping experience, supporting the community and helping Thrifty Foods stay fresh and modern for its customers. “It’s so challenging – I love that part of it; I love starting something, seeing it through and seeing the results of it.” The family atmosphere at Thrifty Foods is one of the reasons so many staff members stay with the company for their careers. For Robyn, recently returned from maternity leave after welcoming her second child, “Thrifty Foods is all about families and so am I, and being a Thrifty Foods employee allows me to be a great mom and a career woman.” Starting out, “I liked how they balanced students’ school schedules, then later in life, when I had my children, they made it so easy to have that work-life balance,” says the mom to two busy boys, age six and three years. When she’s not in the store, family keeps Robyn and her husband busy at home and in the community as their active boys take after their mom in their love for new challenges. “Sunday is family day, so we all spend the day together and usually end with a movie. It’s all about family.” As manager of the Sidney store, with its incredible staff and loyal customers, Robyn says “I feel spoiled. It’s something that’s very, very special and they make it so easy to come to work every day!”
March 5, 2014
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Heather Thurston As owner/operator of Driving Miss Daisy®, Heather Thurston brings lengthy nursing experience in caring for seniors and a positive approach to meeting challenges of aging. This service is of great assistance to caregiver adults needing respite from busy tasks of assisting parents or spouse to/ from appointments, tests etc. Driving Miss Daisy® can safely accompany seniors during appointments and report back to caregivers as needed. Driving Miss Daisy® is an award winning corporation offering reliable and safe assistance, accompaniment and transportation services including (but not limited to): • Medical & dental appointments (liaise between provider & family) • Groceries & personal shopping • Social outings, country drives, stopping for tea • Airport service (from gate to departure) • Companionship & comfort during hospital tests & treatments
250-507-2336
Email: heather@drivingmissdaisy.net www.drivingmissdaisy.net
BEACON
L AW C E N T R E L AW Y E R S , N O TA R I E S
Lianne Macdonald
104 - 9717 Third St., Sidney 5-7115 West Saanich Rd., Brentwood Bay 104 - 4392 West Saanich Rd., Victoria
250-656-3280 www.beaconlaw.ca
Lianne is a founding partner at Beacon Law Centre. The award winning firm, established in 2000, believes simply in excellence for its clients. Every client’s experience with Beacon Law Centre’s staff and lawyers should be outstanding. How is this achieved? • Through careful listening to your needs, coupled with a friendly but frank and practical approach • With prompt, timely guidance, offered in most circumstances for a flat fee that demonstrates high value for money • With carefully crafted, plain language paperwork that avoids legalese • Through trusted and long standing relationships with clients who can rest assured the firm has their back • With conveniently located offices in Sidney, Brentwood Bay and Royal Oak Lianne brings 23 years of experience and care to bear upon her clients’ matters. Her core services include real estate, wills, estate and executor services, and business law. If you would like to use Lianne for your legal needs, please give her a call at Beacon Law Centre.
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March 5, 2014
The Cowland Paterson Team
Taxes can be complex. Don’t hire an amateur. At Cowland Paterson & Co., our first and foremost goal is to give our clients excellent professional service at a competitive price. We are the largest accounting firm on the Saanich Peninsula, and our team of twelve includes six designated accountants and many years of experience and in-depth tax knowledge. Our firm has existed in Sidney since 1970, and the current partners are
Chris Cowland CPA, CA Caroline Paterson CPA, CGA
Chris Cowland and Caroline Paterson, who both have been involved in the local community for many years. Check out our website, which provides useful information on our firm and the services we provide, plus resources such as informative tax-related articles and interactive financial calculators. We welcome new clients, please come and meet us to discuss your needs.
200-2377 Bevan Avenue, Sidney B.C. V8L 4M9 Ph: (250) 656-5547 admin@cowlandpaterson.com Please visit our website at www.cowlandpaterson.com
Q &A March 5, 2014
What business do you own/are involved with? For how long? I’m coming up on my one year anniversary in the Marketing and Promotions department at Panorama Recreation Centre. What role do you and this business have in shaping your community? I think Panorama is a strong tie that binds the community. Our demographics are diverse and include every neighbourhood, economic status and age on the Peninsula. It’s cliché, but we really do have something for everyone from Kindergym to Elder College. On top of our fitness and wellness offerings, you would be hard pressed to find a more passionately committed staff dedicated to supporting individuals and communities. What role do women have in making this a better place to live, work and play? I think if you look around the Peninsula, you would find that there are plenty of phenomenal individuals who make the Peninsula a dynamic, welcoming place and a lot of them just happen to be women. I would be surprised if the Peninsula didn’t have a higher rate of female entrepreneurs than elsewhere in Greater Victoria.
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Carolyn Birch
In what way can women be leaders in their community? I think women can be leaders by focusing on being the best at what they do and not just being the best “for a woman”. Leading by example is one of the most powerful walks to walk. I do think it’s important for women to help foster the development of girls and this needs to start as early as elementary school. If girls are raised with a sense of self-esteem and value, they will automatically feel empowered to achieve their goals. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention we have a program for that too: For the Girls! teaches girls healthy habits and active living through sampling of different fitness genres and nutrition information. What do you enjoy the most about your community? There is no shortage of people who are focused and committed to growing this community. There are so many committees established that work to develop the growth of the municipalities while maintaining the spirit of the Peninsula. In your view, what does this area need the most? Younger people to get involved and have
a say! The Peninsula is going through a bit of a re-branding right now and most needed is for younger people to help grow the Peninsula into the place they want. What is the next project, initiative or challenge you would like to tackle? I’m really excited to have the chance to grow our promotional partnerships and community connections. I am thrilled to be in a position where I am supported to be creative and explore how we can further give back to the community through philanthropic projects or assist local businesses in connecting with our patrons. We’ve also launched an Employee Wellness program to help businesses provide fitness options for their employees. What advice can you offer women who are looking to become involved in their community? Think about what impact you want to make and find an organization or opportunity that will support you in doing that. Don’t think you have to have a particular skill set to get involved, you can always learn. You just need enthusiasm, passion for your community and the ability to connect with people who have a common goal.
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March 5, 2014
Celebrating 30 years... and Loving it! WHETHER YOUR SPRING
plans include a season of entertaining or an escape to somewhere sunny, a visit to Sidney and three of the region’s favourite sources for fun, quality fashions is a must. Baden-Baden Boutique, Barbara’s Boutique and Barbara’s Showroom together offer an astonishing selection of interesting fashions for women of all ages. Known for their chic, high-quality, fun fashions, the stores offer a mixture of European and North American designers, with outfits to take you out exploring or for a night on the town. Offering exceptional service to match their fine fashions, the stores’ friendly, knowledgeable and highly trained staff is on-hand to provide expert advice if needed. Those planning a cruise or tropical escape will enjoy exploring the Showroom’s Travel Section for an extensive selection of summer wear. “And for those planning for special events such as a wedding or office gathering, discover a wonderful selection of dresses, suits, blouses and more — also in our Showroom where you can browse on your own and get inspired,” says owner Barbara Hubbard. “Come to Sidney-by-the-Sea, spend some time and delight in our wonderful choice of fashions for all occasions!”
March 5, 2014
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Estate Planning Time? New Wills & Estates Law in effect March 31, 2014
Are Your Plans in Order? Complimentary Review of Existing Wills*
Call 250-665-6869 or visit eversonlaw.ca to find out how
I Can Help.
Full Legal Services, Including: Wills & Estates • Real Estate Business * 30 minutes or less
307-2453 Beacon Avenue, Sidney • 250.665.6869 • www.eversonlaw.ca
Dr. Sue McTaggart DVM Dr. Sue McTaggart is a veterinarian who practices advanced dentistry and acupuncture. She started out as a wildlife biologist on Vancouver Island after receiving a bachelor’s degree in Honours Zoology from the University of British Columbia. One of ‘her accomplishments during that time was the successful relocation of sea otters from Alaska back to the west coast of Vancouver Island. After graduating from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatchewan, she started a veterinary practice in North Saanich on Cromar Road, later expanding and moving to her current McTavish Road location. Dr. McTaggart has achieved her ‘International Fellow of the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry degree and she is one of ‘only eleven veterinarians in Canada with this advanced training. She has a passionate interest in creating a healthy, comfortable mouth in dogs, cats, guinea pigs and rabbits. Dr. McTaggart has taught veterinary dentistry to fourth year students at the University of Saskatchewan and was the chairperson for the 2013 Canadian Veterinary Medical Association’s Annual Convention in Victoria where she also served as a dental instructor. When she is finished her day at the clinic, Dr. McTaggart can be found playing her trombone in the Commodores Big Band, the Sidney Concert Band, and Simply Brass, a brass quintet. She also likes to make blackberry jam and listens to Andrea Bocelli while studying for her pilot’s licence so she can help her husband fly his Catalina.
HOURS: Monday to Friday: 9 am to 5 pm Closed 1 pm - 2 pm on Thursdays Saturday: 9 am - noon
1700 McTavish Road, North Saanich, B.C.
250-656-9911
deanparkpet@gmail.com
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March 5, 2014
Jo-Anne L.A. Kahan, Lawyer and Notary Public
KL
Whenever you’re in need of legal advice, it’s important to speak to a professional who understands your needs. This is the case with Kahan Law. We always put our clients first.
Kahan Law
Jo-Anne understands that legal advice can be confusing; she is there to help with a client-centred approach. She wants you to fully understand your legal rights. She will look at your specific needs and will offer a variety of options to fit your circumstance.
C-7159 West Saanich Rd. Brentwood Bay, BC
Kahan Law offers many different aspects of legal assistance; from mediation and negotiation to litigation. We offer a free half-hour consultations.
Corporation
250-652-1700 www.kahanlaw.ca
Hours of operation are 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, or by appointment.
Q &A March 5, 2014
What business do you own/are involved with? For how long? I’m entering my 10th year in business at the Deep Cove Market.
What role do you and this business have in shaping your community? The Deep Cove Market has not only provided convenience for our customers, but it has become a welcoming gathering place where friends meet and new friendships are made. What role do women have in making this a better place to live, work and play? Women are able to identify the needs of others often missed at first glance. They are the back bone and support system of so many aspects of community life. Everything from being mothers, homemakers, fundraisers, wives, friends and also running their own businesses. The community spirit is dependant on social connections and women excel at networking. In what way can women be leaders in
Women In Business
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Rosemary Scott
their community? Community events, be it fundraisers, school programs, political rallies, fitness programs and support groups, are predominantly lead by women. Women are natural leaders and demonstrate compassion and commitment to the tasks they take on. What do you enjoy the most about your community? I’d have to say I enjoy the rural feel. I love the farms, walking trails, beaches and close knit community feeling. While the Peninsula has a small town feel, you can pretty much find everything you need locally. In your view, what does this area need the most? More affordable housing for single young adults and young families. This is not $500,000 condos. We need some apartment rentals and $300,000 homes for our next working generation. A nice little local pub and/or restaurant in Deep Cove would be great too!
What is the next project, initiative or challenge you would like to tackle? Well, at some point retiring and travelling is definitely on my mind. My daughter just got married so hopefully becoming a Nana in the future will certainly be a project. However, this being said, I would like to see myself getting more involved in volunteer work and mentoring some women in opening new small businesses in Sidney to offer the community more retail variety. What advice can you offer women who are looking to become involved in their community? Don’t be afraid to dream and share those thoughts with others. Dreams can become reality if you work at it! There are so many local organizations that depend on volunteers to run successfully. The Deep Cove Market has a community post board outside. There are always people looking for help, you can post your services and get the word out that you are available to participate.
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Women In Business
March 5, 2014
Vibes specializes in a 15-minute low impact workout by combining advanced technology with the personal attention of certified trainers Dawn and Meghan in a comfortable spa-like environment. We genuinely care about your fitness needs and provide a personalized workout for your body in a positive, social environment where you feel MEGHAN RAZA & DAWN ROBERTSON confident tackling your goals. Vibes Fitness Do the same thing and get the same results! We urge you to try something new and get amazing results! After three years in business we have watched members meet and surpass their fitness goals. Call or Drop In to book your Free Trial! Vibes Fitness 108 - 2506 Beacon Ave, Sidney 778.426.2146 www.vibesfitness.ca
Winner of the 2012 Crystal Award for New Business!
March 5, 2014
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MEET THE WOMEN OF HOLMES REALTY
HOLMES REALTY prides itself on providing unsurpassed service. This service is enhanced by our hands on attitude and our Realtors help make every real estate transaction a smooth, successful and stress free process. If you, or someone you know are thinking of buying or selling a home, please feel to call upon one of our professionals. They will be happy to answer any questions or provide you with a complimentary home evaluation. Meet our Realtors: from left to right Winnie Wu, Magdalin Heron, Michele Holmes, Willy Dunford, Debra Bartlett, Irene Dunic, Kimberly Legeard, Karen Dinnie-Smyth
Excellence in Real Estate
250-656-0911 HolmesRealty.com
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Women In Business
March 5, 2014
Peggy Yelland,
Certified General Accountant At Peggy Yelland and Associates Inc we think of our clients as our friends, and when assisting them in making business decisions we consider the effect of those decisions on their entire lives. Our firm consists of Peggy Yelland, who obtained her CGA designation in 1996 after working in public practice for 8 years. Her previous experience included controller of a large Victoria based construction company, which provided her with the knowledge to unravel the complexities associated with the construction industry. With the assistance of three accounting technicians and two CGA students our services include everything from monthly bookkeeping to the preparation of both corporate and personal tax returns, financial statements and business consulting. We pride ourselves in not shying away from clients in difficulty and once we have resolved the past problems we endeavour to ensure the future is problem free. We provide a wide variety of accounting, tax, and financial management services tailored to meet the needs of our business clients. Our accounting services are designed to make your job easier and provide you with more time to focus on building your business in Victoria. Our firm keeps abreast of tax law changes throughout the year to ensure that you are taking advantage of ALL tax incentives. Peggy Yelland and Associates also have individualized services for small businesses in industries like real estate accounting, hospitality accounting, professional services and other service businesses. These individualized services have enabled us to address your industry specific challenges, compliance needs, and industry standard tax practices. Our firm believes in the value of relationships and view every client relationship like a partnership, truly believing that our success is a result of your success. Committed to providing close, personal attention to our clients, we take pride in giving you the assurance that the assistance you receive comes from years of advanced training, technical experience and financial acumen. Our continual investment of time and resources in professional continuing education, state-of-the-art computer technology and extensive business relationships is indicative of our commitment to excellence. 102-7851 East Saanich Road Saanichton, BC V8M 2B4 Phone: 250-652-7845 Fax: 250-652-0843 Email: pyellandcga@shaw.ca Web: peggyyelland.com
Q &A March 5, 2014
Women In Business
Sandy Oliver
What business do you own/are involved with? For how long? We opened the doors at Star Cinema in Sidney in September 1998 — 15 and a half years ago!
Whether it’s the hundreds of volunteers or the Sidney Meet Up group, so many women are driving this town to build the kind of community that we can proudly share and enjoy.
What role do you and this business have in shaping your community? Our role is to offer people a social and community space for entertainment, culture and connection as well as a host of fundraising and informative events. People continually tell us that we bring them real pleasure and it’s a wonderfully social experience to watch films with your own community. We bring current films and offer quality films for adults and always bring the latest family films. We keep things affordable and add more reason for people to stay in town, eating and shopping locally. And by being a uniquely small town atmosphere we also draw many people out from Victoria and the islands for a visit.
In what way can women be leaders in their community? By continuing to share their love for connection. Volunteers out there who know how to reach out and take part in things that they care about and are interested in might share their courage and invite others to do the same. It’s a huge leap for some and natural as can be for others to offer to help. Women especially know the importance of support and as leaders they know how to claim support for their own dreams and turn them into realities.
What role do women have in making this a better place to live, work and play? It’s a vibrant community we live in, with splendidly creative and caring people who work tirelessly to make connections and welcome others.
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What do you enjoy the most about your community? I love the fact that from where we sit, overlooking the water and islands and a view of Mount Baker, we have all the warmth a small town can offer, surrounded by the rural beauty and richness of farms and produce. And of course we’re just a hop, skip and jump away from a fair sized city and only minutes away from an international
airport. We really do have it all! In your view, what does this area need the most? I am still not finished imagining a community cinema taking the next step and having a building that can be purpose-built to give us great sight lines and perhaps include one more screen with all the bells and whistles that make even the teens and young adults feel proud and excited to stay in town for their entertainment. What is the next project, initiative or challenge you would like to tackle? Round two of the Sidney Film Society! What advice can you offer women who are looking to become involved in their community? Volunteer! Meet others, offer your skills and be of use. I think that as a small business owner, I still struggle for balance which means that I don’t always get to participate in all the marvellous things going on in this town. But at least I can try to remember that asking for help can make a huge difference. It certainly has been provided to us a great deal this last while. I dream of being able to volunteer when I retire!
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March 5, 2014
Women of ROTARY When it comes to Polio eradication‌
We mean business! Ethical Environment Good Citizenship International Awareness Service Opportunities Friendship
SIDNEY BY THE SEA From left to right: Silvia Bonet, Colette Thompson, Lianne MacDonald, Judy Byron, Rachelle Paul, Marie Rosko; Meredith Reeve, Michele Holmes; our Rotary exchange student Narmfah Alapach; Linda Edgell and Karen Morgan
Professional Networking Family Foundations Diversity in Membership Leadership Development Entertainment
SIDNEY ROTARY CLUB Club President: Carolyn Morley 250.656.6341
Join Your Local
SIDNEY BY THE SEA BREAKFAST MEETING Bob Leitch 250.656.6694
ROTARY CLUB www.rotaryclubofsidney.org www.sidneybythesearotary.ca
SIDNEY DINNER MEETING Roger Hind 250.656.8685
March 5, 2014
Women In Business
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Do you wonDeR: • Do I have enough to retire? • Are my investments right for me? • How much income will I receive when I retire? Viola can help you answeR all of these questions. Viola specializes in assisting women with their important financial goals. Her clients range from professional women preparing for retirement – to women who already rely on their investments to live life comfortably. As knowledge is power, Viola also enjoys presenting her successful Women, Wisdom & Wealth and Golden Girls workshops. In a relaxed, friendly environment, her clients and guests gain financial confidence without feeling that investing and managing their money has to become their full time job.
for an invitation to an upcoming workshop, or to join Viola for a cup of coffee and a second opinion on your portfolio, please call her at 250.657.2220.
W I S D O M + W E A LT H
Viola Van de Ruyt FCSI, CIM, CPCA • INvESTmENT AdvISor dIrECT: 250.657.2220 • Toll FrEE: 1.866.678.2200 #205-2537 Beacon Avenue, Sidney BC V8L 1Y3 • EmAIl: viola.vanderuyt@nbc.ca • WEB: www.nbf.ca National Bank Financial is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of National Bank of Canada. The National Bank of Canada is a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (NA: TSX).
Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation Recognize these women?
renewal and
You may not know
enjoy a good
this, but they
challenge and
are the glue that
work to provide
holds the Saanich
care that our
Peninsula Hospital
community can
together.
be proud of.
The Foundation
Carmela Vezza
office receives
(left) is the
letters all the time,
Manager of
letters that praise
reinvention. They
Photo by Sandy McElroy
Residential Care
the staff and care
at the hospital,
at the Saanich
and Marg Tennant
Peninsula Hospital.
(right) is the Site
It’s not uncommon to hear people say,
Director of the
“I love the Saanich Peninsula Hospital! I had surgery (or went to Emergency
hospital. As the senior managers of the hospital, they inspire others. They
or had a family member in Extended
work behind the scenes, enabling
Care) and they treated me (or my
others to create the compassionate,
relative) like family!”
professional environment that leads
Well, you can thank these authentic, passionate leaders. In a system that is constantly changing, they understand
to the outstanding care we see and experience at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital.
Help us replace our aging CT Scanner with one that is faster and that provides more detail to our doctors. See your donation do wonders.
Your donation gives our doctors x-ray vision.