West Shore
+ LIFE STYLE
M O D E R N L I V I N G : C O LW O O D
HIGHLANDS
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METCHOSIN
V I E W R O YA L
SOOKE
SPRING 2019
INSIDE S P E C I A L F E AT U R E :
Women of the
West Shore
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PEOPLE HOMES FOOD DESIGN
OVER 40 SHOPS & SERVICES AWAIT YOU
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Millsream Rd @ McCallum Rd (across from Home Depot) www.millstreamvillage.com
Planning for your future is important. And so is your time. You can’t predict the times when you’ll have questions on your finances or investments. Why should getting answers be limited to a 9 to 5 schedule? Whether it’s on the phone or in-person, during the day or after hours, I can be available when and where you are. With my flexible and personalized approach, there’s never a wrong time to ask for advice. This is just one of my commitments to you as a Scotiabank Investment Specialist. In addition, benefit from my expertise in:
• Cash flow planning • Retirement saving • Retirement income planning
• Tax-efficient strategies • Investment solutions
Contact me today for a complimentary financial plan.
Max Seeley, CFP Investment Specialist and Financial Planner
250-589-8636
max.seeley@scotiabank.com scotiabank.com/investmentspecialists
® Registered trademarks of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used under licence. Scotiabank includes The Bank of Nova Scotia and its subsidiaries and affiliates, including Scotia Securities Inc. As used in this document, “Investment Specialist and Financial Planner”, “Scotiabank Investment Specialist” and “Financial Planner and Investment Specialist” refers to a Scotia Securities Inc. mutual fund representative or, in Quebec, a Group Savings Plan Dealer Representative who is also registered in the category of Financial Planner. Scotia Securities Inc. is a member of the Mutual Fund Dealers Association. 4516-2018-1218 R1
TABLE OF CONTENTS SPRING 2019
28 14
34
19 6 7 8 12 14
4
Our Contributors Publisher’s Note Salads for the Soul Floral Frenzy Dream House Rising
/ SPRING 2019
8 19 28 34 37 38
Women of the West Shore At Home With Bare Bamboo For the Love of Dogs Meet the Advertisers
WEST SHORE LIFE + STYLE OUR TEAM
GROUP PUBLISHER Penny Sakamoto 250.480.3204 PUBLISHER + ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Michelle Cabana michelle.cabana@goldstreamgazette.com 250.588-2275 EDITOR Susan Lundy lundys@shaw.ca ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lia Crowe
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lily Chan WS LIFE + STYLE CREATIVE & DESIGN Lorianne Koch PHOTOGRAPHERS Don Denton, Lia Crowe
ADVERTISING
West Shore
Joan Stiebel joan.stiebel@goldstreamgazette.com 250.478.9552
LIFE+STYLE
M O D E R N L I V I N G : C O LW O O D
HIGHLANDS
LANGFORD
Jenna Kite-Hall jenna.kitehall@goldstreamgazette.com 250.478.9552 Vicki Clark vicki.clark@blackpress.ca 250.588.2424 DISTRIBUTION Wendy Denison 250.478.9552
WS Life + Style magazine is published four times a year by Black Press. The points of view or opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher of WS Life + Style. The contents of WS Life + Style magazine are protected by copyright, including the designed advertising. Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher.
V I E W R O YA L
INSIDE › PEOPLE › HOMES › FOOD › DESIGN
Women of the
on our cover
SOOKE
SPRING 2019
S P E C I A L F E AT U R E :
CREATIVE SERVICES Michelle Gjerde Cara Robbins Tammy Robinson Crea Zhang
METCHOSIN
West Shore
Exterior of the owner-built-anddesigned home of Don and Bev Sault. Photo by Heath Moffatt
GAZETTE GOLDSTREAM NEWS
205-774 Goldstream Avenue Your wealth Victoria, British Columbia is almost as PH 250.478.9552 important as your health. www.goldstreamgazette.com
It deserves a second opinion.
Your wealth is almost as important Your wealth is almost as as your health. important as your health. It deserves a second opinion.
It deserves a second opinion.
DALE COLLINS CFP EPC Certified Financial Planner
DALE COLLINS 250-818-2626CFP EPC
BRANDING {Prosperity Planning}
Certified Financial Planner prosperity-planning.com 250-818-2616 | prosperity-planning.com
DALE COLLINS CFP EPC
BRANDING {Prosperity Planning}
Certified Financial Planner 250-818-2616 | prosperity-planning.com
/ SPRING 2019
5
Colwood Crawl? We Have the Solution!
OUR CONTRIBUTORS SPRING 2019
LIA CROWE
DON DENTON
Lia spent years in the fashion industry, and now works on the editorial side of lifestyle magazines.
Don is the Photo Supervisor for Black Press, Greater Victoria.
HEIDI FINK
JANICE JEFFERSON
Heidi is a chef, food writer and culinary instructor, specializing in local foods and ethnic cuisines.
Janice is an interior designer who creates well-functioning spaces with an eye-catching mix of playfulness and refinement.
Integrated Swiss made motor + battery With a maximum range of up 130 km
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Get Ready for Summer! The Ultimate Lawn Mowing Machines & more…
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/ SPRING 2019
DARCY NYBO
HANS TAMMEMAGI
Darcy is a freelance writer, author, book editor and publisher, as well as a writing instructor.
Hans’ writing includes travel, environment and Indigenous culture. He has penned 10 books and writes for numerous newspapers and magazines in Canada and internationally.
PUBLISHER’S NOTE MICHELLE CABANA
W
ELCOME to our spring issue of West Shore Life + Style. Let’s hope by the time you’re reading this, you’ve enjoyed a magnificent spring break and are getting ready for the warmer weather.
This edition of WS Life + Style is a celebration of local lifestyles, beautiful home design, food and fascinating people. This issue also features the special section “Women of the West Shore.” Through these pages, get the lowdown on floral home products, tour a beautiful home in Sooke, and meet some award-winning entrepreneurs. To all our readers, advertisers and contributors, I wish you a very Happy Easter, a lovely Mother’s Day and a fun-filled Father’s Day. Take some time out, relax and enjoy. We’ll see you again this summer. WS
— Michelle Cabana
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COMPOSITE DECKING
/ SPRING 2019
7
Salads for the soul Go green this spring! by CHEF HEIDI FINK photos DON DENTON
At its simplest, the salad is a plate of lettuces and spring greens, drizzled with homemade vinaigrette ‌ At its most elaborate, a spring salad can be a fantastic hearty meal.
Classes - Artisan Gift Shop Local Hand Made Art & Craft
Dixie MacUisdin: “Whorl” 11 x 15 Watercolour
CoastCollective.ca info@CoastCollective.ca | 250.391.5522 103 - 318 Wale Road Colwood BC Canada Wednesday - Sunday, 11am-5pm
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Y WINTER’S END, MANY OF US ARE ABSOLUTELY CRAVING FRESH GREENS AND VEGETABLES. I WANT FOODS THAT ARE JUST OUT OF THE GROUND, TASTING OF REAL SPRING. Greens that mean
it: sharp, peppery, earthy, mineral, pungent, refreshing. Fresh new vegetables that entice the palate and spark a jaded appetite. I hope you’re with me. For this reason, among many, we are blessed to live on Vancouver Island. Our sub-Mediterranean climate allows for a longer growing season and earlier harvest of the freshest new vegetables. Right now, we can be enjoying a meal of locally grown lettuces, spring greens and baby greenhouse-grown vegetables. By late May, it feels as though the farmers’ markets are in full summer swing and I have to hold myself back from spending my entire paycheck on boutique vegetables. Craving satisfied.
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My spring salad comes in many forms, depending on what I find at the market or what I have on hand in my pantry. At its simplest, the salad is a plate of lettuces and spring greens, drizzled with homemade vinaigrette. This is my go-to if I don’t have a lot of time, and especially if I have some more flavourful salad leaves in my crisper: chicories like radicchio and endive; peppery greens like mizuna and wild arugula; or something tender and sweet like miner’s lettuce and pea sprouts. At its most elaborate, a spring salad can be a fantastic hearty meal. By mixing leaves and a delicious dressing with a variety of steamed and raw vegetables, proteins (fish or boiled eggs are my favourites), herbs, cheeses, nuts, even fruit, you can create a seasonal meal that is both simple and elegant. No matter how involved the recipe, I focus on the vegetables — their peak-of-freshness is really what sets this kind of salad apart. The joy in finding a local greenhouse-grown snap pea or cherry tomato in early spring, or delicious local asparagus and early potatoes in later spring, calls for celebration in the kitchen and attention to preparation. It’s important to focus on what you like and what you are able 10
/ SPRING 2019
to cook without making yourself crazy. Find a salad dressing that you love, and work with the ingredients on hand or those you have wanted to try. I prefer to lightly steam or cook a variety of harder vegetables (carrots, broccoli, snap peas, asparagus, new potatoes, beets) and include them with the fresh raw vegetables (radishes, chives, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers). Lightly cooking the harder vegetables improves their colour, flavour and digestibility. All the ingredients (salad dressing, washed and ripped leaves, cooked vegetables, cooked proteins) can be prepared in advance and assembled when ready to eat. As a final note, remember that many salads can be served warm, meaning that one or more of the main ingredients, as well as the vinaigrette, can be heated before being tossed with the rest of the ingredients. For my favourite warm salad, try the Warm Endive Salad with garlic and grainy Dijon mustard. Satisfy your spring appetite with any of the following recipes. Happy cooking!
WARM ENDIVE SALAD
This sophisticated and flavourful salad can be served as a first course to any meal, or as a side vegetable. Its slightly bitter edge, rounded with plenty of sautéed garlic and tangy Dijon, makes for one of the tastiest palate-tinglers around. 8 oz (about half large head) curly endive, washed and chopped into 2-cm pieces 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar 1 ⁄8 tsp salt 1 tsp grainy Dijon mustard ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 fillets of anchovy, minced ¼ cup roasted pine nuts or walnuts In a large mixing bowl, combine the red wine vinegar, salt, grainy Dijon and black pepper. In a large saucepan, combine the extra virgin olive oil with the minced garlic and minced anchovy. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant but not coloured. Immediately add the washed and chopped endive, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon or tongs until the leaves are coated with the garlic-oil-anchovy mixture and have begun to wilt very slightly, about 1 minute. Immediately dump the contents of the saucepan into the mixing bowl with the vinegar-Dijon mixture. Toss with tongs or two wooden spoons until well mixed and the endive leaves are evenly coated with the vinegar mixture. Transfer to a serving bowl or platter, garnish with the toasted nuts and serve immediately. Leftovers can be kept up to 5 days and be eaten cold. The salad will lose its vibrant green colour after the first few hours.
Buy a weekend pass! New exhibitors and workshops each day. 11am - 5pm May 4th & 5th 2019
Cost: $3 /day per person | $5 / weekend pass. | Under 12 free When: May 4th & 5th and September 14th & 15. May 4th - Special ticket Event https://withangela.com/events.html Where: Langford Legion Who: Amazing gathering of local services including Readers, Energy Workers, Crystals, locally crafted goods and more! Why : To provide our community with an opportunity to explore new ideas and meet practitioners who offer wellness solutions for Mind* Body* and Spirit*
www.westshoremindbodyspiritexpo.com Langford Legion, 761 Station Ave
LEMON VINAIGRETTE
My favourite salad dressing in the whole world. The oil will solidify in the refrigerator. Bring the dressing out to sit at room temperature while you are making and assembling the salad, to give the oil enough time to “melt.” 1 small clove garlic, minced or pressed 1 Tbsp finely minced shallot ½ tsp Dijon mustard ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp fresh ground pepper ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (or substitute 2 Tbsp local apple cider vinegar) Grated zest of ½ lemon, or more, to taste 1 Tbsp honey ½ cup extra virgin olive oil In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, shallot, mustard, salt, pepper, lemon juice, lemon zest and honey. Slowly drizzle in the oil, whisking until thoroughly emulsified. Pour into glass jar and refrigerate. This dressing will last up to 2 weeks stored in the fridge. Shake well before using. Makes ¾ cup.
HERBED VINAIGRETTE
Use the Lemon Vinaigrette recipe (above) omitting the lemon zest, substituting 2 Tbsp of a good-quality vinegar of your choice (red wine, white wine or apple cider) for the lemon juice, and adding 1 to 2 tsp minced fresh thyme, 1 Tbsp minced chives and 2 Tbsp minced flat-leaf parsley to the mixture. WS
WestShores Best Metaphysical Supplies and Crystals Check out Facebook for all of our amazing events, groups and workshops. 250-208-6643 findyourself@hidden-gem.ca www.hidden-gem.ca
A cozy little shop that features creative classes and locally crafted gifts. Check out the website for upcoming classes and workshops. Come visit us at the store to see our awesome selection of handcrafted items, beads, silver and polymer clay creations. Tea is always on! 250-391-1780 www.westcoastcreativespirits.ca westcoastcreativespirits@gmail.com
104 & 108 -688 Granderson Road, Langford / SPRING 2019
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WS INSIDER [ home design]
A peek of petals and moody evenings provide an antidote to grey skies and spring showers.
floral
4. Sarafina Chandelier Coleen and Company $3,675 USD
frenzy by JANICE JEFFERSON
MODHAUSDESIGNS.COM
1. Magnolia Frieze Wallpaper by Osborne and Little Bespoke 3 panel mural $1,050
3. Industriell Vase Ikea $20
2. Signoria Rosa Sham Gabriel Ross $152
12
/ SPRING 2019
5. Madelyn Faceted Sconce anthropologie.com $128 USD
Join Victoria’s friendliest place to play....
Highland Pacific’s HP and HP Premium Club $129 and $1799 per year respectively
6. Isabelle Coat Smoking Lily $175
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7. Daphne Black Dishware CB2 $10-$13
8. Covet Daphne Floral Curved Chair CB2 $1,499
Anyone can join – become a member today. Only $55 per year Weekly Meat Draws On Saturday 3-5pm Members & Guest Welcome Call us for Catering & Room Rentals
The New Era Legion
www.rcl91.ca rcl91.ca
Prince Edward Branch #91
761 Station Ave. Langford, BC 250-478-1828 / SPRING 2019
13
WS INSIDER [ smart spaces]
Dream
house rising QUICK FACTS
Living space: 7,800 sq. ft. Garage, workshop and mechanical room: 4,070 sq. ft. Deck area: 2,000 sq. ft. Total outside finished space: 3,740 sq. ft. Bedrooms: 5 Bathroom: 4 full and 1 half Amenities: Infinity edge pool, hot tub, waterfall, media room, artist studio, gym, library and office. Two garages on two levels. 14
/ SPRING 2019
POST MODERN INDUSTRIAL MEETS NATURE IN SPECTACULAR HAND-BUILT SOOKE HOME by DARCY NYBO photography HEATH MOFFATT
XPECTATION EXCEEDED. THAT WAS MY FIRST THOUGHT AS I DROVE UP THE DRIVEWAY TO THIS SPECTACULAR SOOKE HOME.
At the front door, I froze. I barely noticed the great room through the double glass doors. All I could see was Juan de Fuca Straight and the Olympic Mountains beyond. After a few moments of taking it all in, I rang the doorbell and met Don and Bev Sault — both the homeowners and the
Once upstairs, you get a better feel for the size of this house, especially as you stand on the 40-foot walkway.
builders. Don is an engineer and Bev is an artist and the two combined their talents and passions to create this beautiful 7,800-square-foot home. The tour started in their expansive, south-facing outdoor living space, where Don began by easily sliding away the corner glass walls, leaving nothing between the deck and the great room. There is over 2,000 square feet of deck area on this side of the house. A large, infinity-edge pool sits inconspicuously beyond a large rock outcropping. They’ve built a waterfall into the rock which flows down into a calming koi pond. To the right, sits an outdoor shower. The builtin hot tub is barely noticeable between the pond and the pool. Further along the deck — which has propane connections for outdoor heaters and a custom-made fire bowl — is a separate entrance to a lovely self-contained two-bedroom guest suite. The suite exits into a short hallway that leads to a large laundry room to the right, and a kitchen to the left. “All the cabinetry and decorating was picked out and designed by me,” Bev said. “Don designed the big stuff and I did the little stuff. It’s all about the details, and it was fun!” The kitchen is as warm and inviting as the rest of the house. The island has a raised bar on the end with an arbutus top. There’s a cosy window seat with built-in storage. The great room, dining room and kitchen have a beautiful openconcept style, and an open walkway of metal and wood soars above, connecting an upper floor art studio to an office, gym and library. The entire main floor is a mixture of gorgeous, warm woods, quartz countertops, metal beams and modern lighting. The floors are Doussie, also known as Afzelia Africana, a sustainable wood product. The wood that stands out the most in this house is a 37-foot-tall red cedar that is over nine feet round at the base. They found it felled on a property in East Sooke, fell in love with it and decided it would be the centerpiece of their home. “We had to bring it in and place it before we could even put up the walls,” Don said. Once in place, Bev went to work. “I remember coming here in the dark with trouble lights, lying on the floor and pulling off the bark and / SPRING 2019
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removing the limbs. After a few weeks of sanding and carving the knots, we had it sand-blasted smooth.” Then, it was time to finish it. “It took about 10 gallons of linseed oil to get it looking the way it is now,” Don said. “It just kept soaking it up!” Once the cedar was in place, the couple could focus on building the house. The tree is surrounded by a curved staircase that extends from the lower floor, through the main level and up to the top floor. “The riser on the winding staircase is tubular steel bent into a curve. Each of the risers weighs 800 pounds,” Don said. “The treads of the staircase are laminated fir.” Once upstairs, you get a better feel for the size of this house, especially as you stand on the 40foot walkway. All the railings inside are made of structural steel and hand-painted by Bev. Don designed the railings and fabricated everything on site. “We had three companies come in and quote,” Don said, “but none of them could do what we wanted. It’s definitely one of a kind.” This home displays several true feats of engineering. As Don explained, “I was the general contractor and oversaw the entire build. When ordering the steel and concrete, the suppliers couldn’t believe the quantity. There are miles of rebar and 100,000 pounds of steel in this home. On top of that is 450 cubic metres of concrete. We used a lot of insulated concrete forms as well. If steel is resting on anything in the house it’s on 16
/ SPRING 2019
concrete or more steel. Where it’s less structural, we used structural insulated panels.” The lower floor is as expansive as the one above it with two guest bedrooms, a bathroom, media room, games room and a lower-level garage that easily holds eight or nine vehicles. The house has some other great features. The large, double-entry front doors are made with switch glass and with the press of a button become opaque. The island-sourced, stone-faced fireplace reaches up 26 feet to the ceiling of the second floor. The Rumford wood-burning fireplace is flanked on the left by an artisticlooking metal cage to house the wood, and to the right, by floating cherry wood shelves. Beside the living area is a guest bathroom, with an entrance out to the pool and hot tub. The inside shower has an ethereal mural of Bev’s daughter, who looks as if she has just stepped out of a dream garden. “The airbrushed mural took me three months to complete,” Bev said. “It is protected with an epoxy finish.” Then there is the master suite. The bed faces a wall of glass that looks out onto the waterfall, koi pond, infinity pool and beyond to the relaxing ocean and mountain views. “I love waking up in the morning, looking at the mountains and watching the birds play in the waterfall,” Bev said. “It’s the perfect way to start the day.” Don and Bev loved creating this home together and are more than thrilled with the result. “A lot of it was about the project,” Don said. “We may have gotten carried away with the design. We didn’t envision having a house like this, but we both turned it into something special.” WS
The wood that stands out the most in this house is a 37-foottall red cedar that is over nine feet round at the base. / SPRING 2019
17
We had three companies come in and quote,” Don said, “but none of them could do what we wanted. It’s definitely one of a kind.
The
dream
team Don and Bev met in 1999, bought an old house by the river and renovated it together. They were pleasantly surprised to discover they worked quite well together.
D
on and Bev Sault didn’t plan on moving to Vancouver Island. The Winnipeg couple were considering becoming US “snowbirds.” But when they visited Vancouver Island, they fell in love with the area. Don, an engineer, had his own commercial real estate development company. His first project was to restore a 100-yearold building in Calgary now known as Woodstone Manor. He returned to Winnipeg and purchased an old building that was near demolition. The now-renovated six-storey building in the heart of downtown Winnipeg is home to APTN, the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network. On top of his business successes, Don hoped to one day build and design his own dream home. Meanwhile, Bev, a graphic artist and designer, had her own business as a decorator, mural painter and restorer. She did restoration work on a mural painted by famous artist and 18
/ SPRING 2019
sculptor Leo Mol in a small church in Manitoba. She also created murals for schools, churches, private residences and commercial spaces. Don and Bev met in 1999, bought an old house by the river and renovated it together. They were happy to discover they worked well together. But the Winnipeg winters were wearing thin on them and they decided to start looking for a place to escape the freezing prairie. They came to Vancouver Island in 2009 to visit friends and decided this is where they wanted to live. After an extensive search, they found the perfect lot in Sooke, overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountain range, and in the middle of a rare arbutus forest. It was a dream come true as they created their dream home together. WS
Women
WS INSIDER [ Advertising feature ]
West Shore
of the
Opening the doors to the community by SHALU MEHTA
F
n 1998, Stephanie Dunlop began volunteering with a fire department in the Okanagan, a job that soon advanced into a paid position.
Dunlop decided to volunteer in the first place because she wanted to try something new, engage with the community and experience the challenge of doing something that was different. “Twenty years ago it was outside of the norm for a female to be doing that work,” Dunlop said. There were three females who started at the same time as her
and Dunlop said they were all welcomed in by the crew. She said being a woman has never gotten in the way of her job, although funny moments do come by from time to time. To this day, Dunlop said people are sometimes confused about the fact that she is the fire chief in Metchosin. “Is it an issue? No,” Dunlop said. “As a firefighter I’m just a firefighter, I’m just a fire chief, not a female fire chief.” Dunlop has been working in Metchosin for close to 20 years now. She started off as a volunteer, went on staff and was appointed part-time fire chief for the District in 2008. Two / SPRING 2019
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years later, she became a full-time fire chief. Dunlop said she and other firefighters have worked hard to engage with the community. She said fire departments used to be a closed club, where the community never really knew what happened in the fire hall.
“
We’ve opened the doors to make it a community thing now… We try and engage as much as possible and have a community that accepts that as well.”
“Here in Metchosin, it’s a bit beyond that,” Dunlop said. “We’ve opened the doors to make it a community thing now. . .We try and engage as much as possible and have a community that accepts that as well.”
Dunlop said that while there are still people out there who don’t think women belong in the career, she has become resilient to gender expectations. “I just want to get my work done,” Dunlop said. And her advice to young women entering the workforce is the same. “Don’t get hung up on all this other stuff. . .Enjoy your job,” Dunlop said. “Don’t forget your small community and Mrs. Smith and treat
everybody like they’re your grandma. Whether they’re a crack addict on the street that you’re pumping full of narcan or it’s the person you’ve been to a hundred times before, treat everybody with equal respect and be on top of your game. . .and that’s regardless of your rank or position in life quite frankly.”
Moving forward, Dunlop is working on a masters degree in fire services administration. She is hoping to get a training facility together to do some regionalized training with her team and get a dog trained in accelerant investigations for arsons. She said she’s also getting to the age where she can start thinking about retiring in the next 20 years. As for the Metchosin community, Dunlop said she would like to say thank you. “Thanks for letting me be here,” Dunlop said. “Thanks for engaging us and reminding the fire department that we are a community fire department.” WS
Dale Collins Prosperity Planning 250-818-2616 122-2871 Jacklin Rd. prosperity-planning.com
PROSPERITY PLANNING — Planning finances for the future Prosperity Planning, owned by Dale Collins, has been operating on the West Shore since 2005. Collins has lived and worked in the community for more than 20 years, and she takes pride in offering holistic financial planning advice. Collin’s role as a Certified Financial Planner is to “help my clients figure out where they are going, and how to get there. My greatest satisfaction comes from seeing my clients reach their goals. This could mean buying their first home, retiring comfortably, or 20
/ SPRING 2019
creating an estate plan that ensures assets will be transferred seamlessly to their loved ones. Having a solid financial plan in place, and updating it as life changes, is essential.”
their legacy. I help them to construct an estate plan that provides maximum benefit and minimizes complications for their family members.”
Collins has a keen interest in estate planning. With a plan in place she is able to take away some of the stress for her clients’ families.
Always active in the community, Collins is invested in her clients’ wellbeing.
“One area in an overall financial plan that is often overlooked or delayed is estate planning. I educate my clients on different options available when it comes to planning
Why choose Prosperity Planning? “At Prosperity Planning, we believe in go- ing above and beyond to make you feel secure and taken care of, so you can focus on the things that really matter to you.” WS
WS INSIDER [ Women of the West Shore ]
Mitzi Dean MLA, Esquimalt-Metchosin Carole James MLA, Victoria-Beacon Hill
LEADING THE WAY by lifting people up We are working every day to make life better for all British Columbians. By investing in people, we’re building a strong economy for today and tomorrow. We are opening doors of opportunity and creating a foundation on which everyone can thrive. Our balanced Budget 2019 is about creating opportunities by lifting people up so that they can thrive. We’re putting thousands of dollars back in people’s pockets with the biggest middle-class tax cut in a generation. MSP premiums will be fully eliminated at the end of this year, saving individuals up to $900 a year and families up to $1,800 a year. We’ve eliminated Fair Pharmacare deductibles for people with low incomes and are now investing an additional $42 million to expand the drugs covered by Fair Pharmacare. We’re increasing benefits to seniors living independently by an average of $930 per year under the Shelter Aid for Elderly
Renters (SAFER) program. The B.C. Child Opportunity Benefit will provide support to families for every child they have through to age 18, with up to $1,600 per child per year. By eliminating interest on B.C. student loans, young people will get a better start in their lives and careers, interest-free. The housing crisis has left many people in our region struggling to afford basic, safe shelter. We are moving quickly to respond. In our community, several projects are nearing completion that will provide muchneeded rental homes for families, seniors, and people with disabilities. Our government is working to make sure people get faster access to the quality health care they need with urgent primary care, team-based care networks, and community health centres functioning together. Addressing the shortage of family doctors is a top priority. We are training more doctors, nurses and allied health
professions and creating pathways for experienced physicians from overseas to work in British Columbia. We are also focused on providing patients with better and faster access to surgeries. The Sooke School District (SD 62) is one of the fastest growing in B.C., with a projected increase of 1,800 students in the next five years. We’re taking a proactive approach by ensuring the proper investments are made to support families in growing communities like the West Shore. Our government recently made $300,000 available to help all public schools provide free menstrual products for students in school washrooms by the end of this year. Students should never have to miss school, extracurricular, sports or social activities because they can’t afford or don’t have access to menstrual products. For more detailed information on Budget 2019, visit www.bcbudget.gov.bc.ca WS / SPRING 2019
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HELPING WOMEN find clothes to fit their curves
Angela Soukoreff Curvalicious Boutique 250-590-2799 #109 - 751 Goldstream Ave
Having worked for the federal government, in finance and wealth management as well as overseas supporting development workers, Angela Soukoreff made a change two years ago and became the owner of Curvalicious Boutique in Langford. “I have always wanted to own a women’s clothing store, so when the opportunity for this local business became available, I was thrilled,” Soukoreff said. Her vision for the boutique is to give women a place to find clean, quality, affordable consignment pieces to enhance their wardrobe. She also wants to give women the chance to invest in pieces that are primarily designed by Canadians are are either sewn in Canada or produced ethically overseas.
Sheri-Lynn Ellwood Diane Ellwood 250-391-6033
797 Goldstream Ave Collaborating with women and for women is the motto at Baja Rosi’s Consignment Cabana. Sheri-Lynn Ellwood and her mother, Diane Ellwood, have owned Baja Rosi’s Consignment Cabana for the last three and a half years but the business itself has been part of the Langford community for 16 years now. “I love what I do and love the way that we do it,” said Sheri-Lenn Ellwood. “It’s about community and family.” Ellwood said she and her mother have a vision of making the store a place where all generations can work together. Currently, Diane, Sheri-Lynn and Sheri-Lynn’s 20-year-old daughter all work there and bring their generation’s perspectives to the job.
“They are made of better fabrics and for the North American woman’s curves,” Soukoreff said.
Ellwood said she wants all three generations to be able to help women find what they are looking for in their own wheelhouse.
The boutique also offers wardrobe building services and image consulting and sells formal wear for women attending galas, weddings, vacationing or on a cruise.
The store has a consignment database of over 17,000 women and features clothing, shoes and purses from various brands.
“Curvy women struggle to find modern, quality clothing yet 67 per cent of North American women are size 14 plus,” Soukoreff said. “We’re the majority yet treated like a niche. We’re trying to change that.” Some products that are sold at the boutique include Thigh Society anti-chafing underwear, Nygard Slims to size 3X, Parsley & Sage, Papa Fashions and Sleevey Wonders. The business also has two formal partnerships with Wear 2 Start — a company that helps women in need find a work wardrobe — and the Victoria Women In Need Cooperative. Clothes from consigners who do not want their items returned if they don’t sell are given to these organizations.
Ellwood said every day working there is exciting because she never knows what types of products will be coming through the door. With 70 per cent of the store’s shoppers living in Langford, Ellwood said it truly is part of the community — one that she has worked in for many years as well as part of different businesses. Sheri-Lynn and Diane decided to buy the store after Diane had worked there for about one year. The owner at the time was leaving, so the Ellwoods stepped in and love what they’re doing to this day. “When we make money, other women are making money,” Ellwood said. “It’s very eco-friendly, there’s just a lot of plusses.” While Sheri-Lynn said she had to learn about the business very quickly, she wouldn’t trade her job now.
Curvalicious Boutique also occasionally donates to special fundraising events and activities.
“My very favourite thing that I love. . .is fashion fades, style is eternal,” Ellwood said. “I think that’s what we do, style.”
Soukoreff said she has a great passion for food and similarly, is passionate about fashion.
Baja Rosi’s Consignment Cabana also donates to the Victoria Pregnancy Centre, as well as to local events and people in the community.
“This translates into my desire to offer a safe, welcoming location where all women, and especially those who dislike shopping and clothing, can have the time, space and selection to find what they need,” Soukoreff said. For more information, visit www.curvaliciousboutique.com WS
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BAJA ROSI’S CONSIGNMENT CABANA: fashion with women and for women
/ SPRING 2019
“I just really like my job,” Ellwood said. “It’s a collaboration with women and for women.” https://www.facebook.com/bajarosis/ @bajarosisconsignment http://www.bajarosis.com/ WS
WS INSIDER [ Women of the West Shore ] WS INSIDER [ Women of the West Shore ]
#101 - 891 Attree Ave. 250-478-9141
Photo by: Jon-Mark Photography
KEEPING AHEAD OF THE CURVE A wealth of experience, professional, courteous client service and attention to detail, has enabled Pemberton Holmes to raise the standard for property management for more than a century. “Ensuring our clients are completely happy with the services provided is a key focus,” said Claire Flewelling-Wyatt, Managing Broker for the property management division at Pemberton Holmes. “You have to provide people with the confidence and knowledge to ensure all of their concerns are being addressed in the most timely manner.” Having a staff that can shift seamlessly from one area of expertise to another is essential. “Part of building a successful team is instilling the ability to wear whatever hat the situation requires,” explained Flewelling-Wyatt, who has been with Pemberton Holmes for the past 15 years. She feels fortunate to have colleagues like Gail McClymont, Managing Director of commercial services, and Tara Paddon, Managing Director of strata. “These team
members each have a unique touch to the services offer and we all agree the diversity is what keeps us going” said Flewelling-Wyatt. “Every day is a new challenge,” said Paddon, who brings eight years experience to the fold. “There’s never a dull moment in this industry, and the constant changes in regulations keeps us on our toes.” McClymont has 23 years in the industry to draw upon when it comes to saving clients precious time and money. Flewelling-Wyatt, Paddon and McClymont put an emphasis on constantly furthering their education to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to the frequent changes in legislation, rules, property tax, non resident tax, assessments, depreciation reports, financials and new wrinkles such as the speculation tax. “It’s much more diverse than most people realize,” Flewelling-Wyatt noted. “In addition to all of the above, you also have to be skilled at dealing with the human component of property management as well.”
The family-owned company has more than 45 property management employees and 250 real estate agents serving the area from Sidney to Sooke and beyond, as well as offices in Nanaimo and the new addition on Salt Spring Island. Pemberton Holmes Property Management on Attree Avenue in Langford manages an impressive mix of residential, commercial and strata properties. The company supports many community organizations, sports teams and local charities, including the SPCA, Our Place and Kid Sport, to name a few. “The company has a long history of helping those in need,” McClymont said. “They believe that giving back is the best way to build better communities.” That philosophy is an essential element in what has enabled Pemberton Holmes to thrive in an expanding, constantly changing market. “We’ve built our reputation on exceeding expectations,” Flewelling-Wyatt said. For more information on Pemberton Holmes, visit thepropertymanagers.ca. WS / SPRING 2019
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WS INSIDER [ Women of the West Shore ]
Carolin Roussel
HELPING PEOPLE move forward through mediation
Eye Etiquette 250-474-1941
189-2401 C Millstream Rd
Lori Frank
EYE ETIQUETTE puts the focus on selection and service There’s more to purchasing the perfect pair of glasses than meets the eyes. The selection of frames has to suit the prescription, as well as the type of work the glasses are required for, explained Carolin Roussel, who opened Eye Etiquette Optical in Millstream Village in 2007. “Perhaps your work requires something more robust, or maybe you’re simply looking for frames that provide the look you want for your everyday lifestyle.” “Sometimes contacts are a better way to go, especially with more complicated prescriptions,” added Roussel, who has more than 20 years experience in the optical industry. “We’re really excited to be able to offer brand new technology as of April 1 in transitional contacts that adapt to changes in sunlight.” An emphasis on staying on top of the latest improvements in technology and styles has enabled Eye Etiquette Optical to build a devoted base of customers. Many return with each new prescription, which underlines their level of service and satisfaction. “We’re here to exceed our customers expectations,” said Roussel, who fell in love with Vancouver Island when she moved here in 1996. “I couldn’t do that without our amazing staff.” Doctors Gurpreet Leekha and Jesse Peterson have more than 20 years of experience in the field, and all four of Roussel’s staff members are licensed optometric assistants or licensed opticians. “We also specialize in children’s frames, and everyone here is great at developing a real rapport with our younger patients.” Eye Etiquette Optical offers a wide selection of the latest trends in eye wear, contacts, prescription sunglasses and safety glasses as well. “There’s literally hundreds of choices available, something for all tastes and styles.” Roussel credits her loyal customers and their numerous referrals for the success of Eye Etiquette Optical, and is looking forward to opening another location at Belmont Market in the fall. “We’ve become a household name in the Capital Region through Westshore Moms on Facebook,” she noted. “I really appreciate the people who have taken the time to post testimonials on our website. It speaks volumes to the service we provide.” For more on the Millstream Village location and news on the new one at Belmont Market, check out eyeetiquetteoptical.ca. Call 474-1941 for more information. WS 24
/ SPRING 2019
Lori Frank Mediation 250-516-4234
Originally from Ontario, Lori Frank has been on the west coast for 20 years and has been working with families for even longer than that. Her business, Lori Frank Mediation, opened in April of 2017 and helps with separation mediation, workplace mediation and individual or organization consulting and coaching. “In a previous role I had the opportunity to sit in on some mediations with a family I was working with,” Frank said. “After the first session I knew this was what I should be doing. It was the first time I saw a process that gave parties the opportunity to really listen to each other, to understand one another better and to take control over decisions that needed to be made in a way that worked for everyone involved.” Frank brings a high level of empathy, understanding, problem solving and conflict resolution to the table amongst families and professionals. She uses and model of mediation that focuses on moving forward from the present to get to an agreed-upon outcome. In the near future, Frank is also planning on offering online conflict resolution coaching. “Being able to access a service online and at a time that works for them can be so valuable,” Frank said. Mediation functions as a modern solution to separation and divorce and through it, Frank helps create parenting plans and considers the uniqueness of every situation. She also specializes in working with separating parents where the interests of a child with special needs is being considered. When it comes to workplaces, Frank helps build teams up and creates a workplace employeed want to come to, rather than avoid. In the past, Frank was the president of the Victoria Society for Children with Autism and is involved with 100 Women Who Care Westshore. In her spare time, she enjoys getting out in nature with her family and her dog and being surrounded by the beauty the Island has to offer. “I really enjoy working for myself and being able to do things and make changes in a way that I think works best for clients,” Frank said. To find out more, visit https://www.lorifrankmediation.com/ WS
WS INSIDER [ Women of the West Shore ]
“
Local government, I really feel, is where the rubber hits the road. It was a wonderful experience and I thoroughly enjoyed it.” photo ARNOLD LIM
The journey never ends From businesswoman to city council by SHALU MEHTA
F
ormer Colwood Mayor Carol Hamilton has been working for as long as she can remember.
A retired businesswoman, Hamilton was previously a correctional officer for the provincial government and a Colwood councillor from 2005 to 2008, before being elected as mayor in 2011. “I think I’ve always worked right from being a kid,” Hamilton said, and she continues to keep busy after her sevenyear term as mayor as well. “Local government, I really feel, is where the rubber hits the road,” Hamilton said. “It was a wonderful experience and I thoroughly enjoyed it.” Hamilton decided to run for mayor
because the City of Colwood has always felt like home to her. Community members have also played a big part in her experience in the city, as she spent her adult life in Colwood. Hamilton’s kids played on sports teams and she was involved in their schools when they were younger. Her husband was a police officer and MLA as well. “You end up knowing a lot of people just by living here,” Hamilton said. She credits many of the connections she made to making her transition to mayorship — despite being a woman — an easier one. “I think I could hold my own in council because I knew people first before I had
to work with them,” Hamilton said. The work she did in her two terms on council makes her proud, as she helped put together foundations for the community and strengthen it. Hamilton said she also wanted to encourage people to start to think about what Colwood is as a city, something she said she noticed is happening now with new projects like Colwood Corners and affordable housing. While she said not being able to see the work first-hand the way she did when she was on council is different for her, she knows good work is still being done. In her own personal life, Hamilton said she has faced challenges, but said the key to moving past them has been to / SPRING 2019
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WS INSIDER [ Women of the West Shore ] As for advice for young women thinking about entering politics, Hamilton said to “just go for it” and seek advice from mentors if needed. When Hamilton first became mayor, she was on a council with two men and five women. She compared that with her her experience on council with two women and five men in 2005. “The whole tone and demeanour and presence changed in that council chamber and we all worked hard,” Hamilton said about her council when she was mayor. She said council was able to have good discussion and make decisions together when she was mayor, and she credits that to giving everyone an equal chance to talk about their thoughts rather than feel pressure to act aggressively. keep meaningfully busy — something she feels she is doing now too. Additionally, Hamilton said she has always received great support from the community during personal hardships.
“I think we can see change coming,” Hamilton said. “There has to be some engagement on things but I think we see more change.”
With five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren as well as family members like her mother and husband to help care for, Hamilton said she has plenty to do.
“She just really thinks having a lady mayor was super awesome and she wants to do that,” Hamilton said. “And I said bang on kiddo, keep your dream because one day it could be you.” WS
Hamilton said she still remembers a young girl from Colwood Elementary School who sent her notes when she was mayor.
A SECOND LIVING ROOM where community can gather It’s been about two years since Hollis Turbine and her business partners Sheena Lind, Aaron Lind and Joe Cunliffe purchased The Rose Public House. The quartet purchased it on August 17, 2017, and after 17 days of renovation, opened its doors to the public again. At the helm of the operation is Lind, who holds down the kitchen, and Turbine, who manages the front of house.
Hollis Turbine Sheena Lind 592 Ledsham Rd
A true neighbourhood pub, The Rose deems itself as “your second living room,” offering fresh home cooked food and the coldest pints in the west. “I have been hosting and feeding guests for as long as I can remember,” said Turbine, who grew up in a bed and breakfast in southwestern Ontario. “There is something so special about having the ability to create an experience for someone and genuinely working to make that someone smile.” Turbine has been in all roles of the food and beverage industry and said she and her partners couldn’t pass up the opportunity of buying The Rose Public House. Lind is a Red Seal chef and graduate of the culinary arts program of Niagara College. Lind said she made a trip to the Island 12 years ago and instantly felt at home. She began working at the Sidney Pier Hotel as a junior sous-chef and worked up the ranks to executive chef where she held that position for two and a half years. After, she took a position at Ferris’s Upstairs Oyster Bar in Victoria. 26
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250-478-4200
“In a few years time I found myself really testing my culinary skills with the raw and nourishing foods of Be Love restaurant,” Lind said. “It is at this point I realized how much my family in B.C. has grown and where opportunities such as The Rose transpired from.” Lind said she never dreamed she’d be an owner of a pub just a few blocks away from home, let alone be cooking beside her husband and watching their daughter grow while the business grows. “I think it’s safe to say we had blind faith in each other’s abilities,” Lind said. “I am constantly impressed with [Turbine] and her abilities to create a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere in our pub.” Turbine and Lind now plan on further expanding the business and were just approved to build a licensed patio behind the place, making a big
renovation next on their to-do list. “We are so excited,” Turbine said. “It’s going to be a hidden gem.” The Rose Public House has also played host to fundraisers for surrounding schools, has donated to neighbourhood children’s sports teams and has their bottled collected in support of breast cancer. “We are definitely interested in learning more about our community and helping out in any way we can,” Turbine said. “We are striving to be the second living room for our community where friends and families can all get together for some good food and laughs.” For more information, visit www.therosepublichouse.com @therosepublichouse https://www.facebook.com/rosepublichouse/ WS
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WOMEN IN BUSINESS: STEPHANIE BENEDICT Manager, Business Services
Deb Alcadinho CEO and Founder
250.261.8227 stephanie.benedict@cccu.ca For all your business banking needs.
JODI LUNDGREN Insurance Representative 250.818.7363 www.wwbnvictoria.com
SISTERHOOD through business Giving business women and professional women a platform to grow their business, build relationships, learn and be inspired was Deb Alcadinho’s goal when she started the Westshore Women’s Business Network (WWBN) in 2010. Now, after almost nine years, it has grown to become a supportive sisterhood of women helping each other to achieve excellence. “I believe in the power of connection,” Alcadinho said. “I know we are stronger together and we have much to learn from each other’s success and challenges.” WWBN gives women in business a chance to attend a variety of networking events comprising of keynote speakers, connection and inspiration. It also gives women resources and learning opportunities to help with their businesses. “At our networking events, you’ll hear a keynote speaker who shares learning to move your business forward,” Alcadinho said. “(It’s an) opportunity to showcase your product or service with a display table, build ample connections, receive a catered lunch and have great conversations.” Soon WWBN’s online store offering courses and training in topics relating to business development and growth will be expanding as well. At the heart of WWBN is giving back, and it does so by funding several women’s non-profits and charities. Each quarter, a charity also receives a donation from WWBN and the network is presently supporting Wear 2 Start. For more information, go to WWBNVictoria.com ttps://www.facebook.com/WWBNVictoria WS
250.391.5359 jodi.lundgren@cccu.ca Helping to protect what matters most.
KARALEE VANTASSEL Senior Account Manager 1-888-741-1010 karalee.vantassel@cccu.ca Helping to protect what matters most.
To learn more about how we can help you, connect with our experts directly, visit us at the Goldstream location or online at cccu.ca or call 1.888.741.1010 GOLDSTREAM VILLAGE LOCATION 752A Goldstream Avenue
Banking services provided by Coastal Community Credit Union. Insurance services provided through Coastal Community Insurance Services (2007) Ltd. / SPRING 2019
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WS INSIDER [ lifestyles]
Crafting world-class spirits J A S O N A N D A L AY N E M A C I S A A C by HANS TAMMEMAGI photos DON DENTON
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S
eeking top-line spirits to impress my friends and make stimulating cocktails — the current hot trend — I headed to Sooke and Sheringham Distillery. In an unassuming twostorey grey building just off the main street — surprise! — I found the world’s best contemporary gin. While sipping a Seaside Gin, with its hints of the nearby ocean, I spoke with Jason and Alayne
MacIsaac, the owners and operators, and learned about the passion and care that results in a small distillery producing spirits with tastes and quality that far surpass those from a massive assemblyline production. That Sheringham crafts the finest became glaringly obvious when their Seaside Gin was entered in the World Gin Awards competition in London, England. The MacIsaacs were overjoyed to win the qualifying competition for contemporary
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gins made in Canada. But when their overall victory against 22 other countries was announced in London in February of this year, they were ecstatic. A critic said, “Really gorgeous on its own, when you sip this gin it tastes nothing like you’d expect a gin with kelp in it to taste like.” And it wasn’t a fluke, for Sheringham’s four spirits have won more than a dozen awards in the past few years. Alayne explained how the idea for Seaside Gin was born one day as she and Jason walked along French Beach. “It was a glorious sunny day with waves rolling in, and a wonderful fresh breeze carried the aromas of blooming Sitka roses, the forest and the ocean,” she said. “Jason and I were enchanted by the beauty of the moment and wondered how we might capture the terroir and its mystique in a bottle.” Jason began experimenting using different botanicals — the flavourings added in the third
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distillation that gives gin its character. In addition to juniper, coriander, rose, anise and lavender, he tried foraged winged kelp. Jason, a local surfer, likes the briny and umami notes that kelp adds to his gin: “It’s clean as a south island surf,” he said. Little wonder that a prize-winning libation emerged, for Jason, a chef by formal training, has a superb palate and has memorized an extensive “catalogue” of flavours and aromas. He also knows how to source local products such as organic barleys and wheats. He had a home still almost two decades ago and learned the trade by reading and speaking with local master distillers like Victoria’s Ken Winchester. Alayne has a business degree and studied Mandarin overseas. With a strong business acumen, she looks after the financial, administrative and promotional side of the company. It was risky to give up their separate successful careers, but the couple wanted to work together, so in 2015 they started Sheringham Distillery, combining the strengths and talents of each. Thanks to their skills, passion and hard work, the distillery has succeeded. Their first operation was home-based in Shirley, BC, but in 2017 they moved to nearby Sooke and more than tripled their production. They live above the distillery with Cassandra, their six-year-old daughter. “My favourite part of Sheringham Distillery,” said Jason, “is working with Alayne. We’re a great team.” Indeed, I could sense their mutual support, synergy and strength.
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Jason MacIsaac checks the gin at his and Alayne MacIsaac’s Sheringham Distillery in Sooke.
In addition to Seaside Gin, Sheringham crafts four other spirits. Kazuki Gin was born out of a love of both eastern and western botanicals experienced during their travels, and also of Japanese cuisine. Kazu means harmony and ki means radiance. Two of the botanicals — cherry blossoms and yuzu peel — are imported from Japan. Akvavit, a traditional Nordic spirit, is not common on this side of the Atlantic, but Sheringham’s version, nicely spiced with local botanicals, may change that. William’s White was an un-aged whisky that was gaining popularity, however, Jason discontinued it to pursue whiskies aged in oak barrels. I was happy to hear that a few will soon be reaching the age of three years, a requirement in Canada to be officially called a whisky. Sheringham also produces a notably smooth vodka. Jason led me on a tour. One side of the main hall was filled with four large, vertical stainless-steel tanks, a mash tun and three fermenters. But the centre of attention was the three gleaming stainless-steel stills with shining orange copper cladding. “The large one is a stripping still, the next in size is the spirit still and the third, smallest still is where I add the botanicals,” Jason explained. “I enjoy experimenting with different botanicals and have tried quite a variety over the years.” He added: “As in cooking, terroir is important in making spirits. We love this part of southern Vancouver Island overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca.” The moniker Sheringham Distillery pays homage to the name given to the area in 1846 (later shortened to Shirley so it would fit on a postage stamp). The Sheringham Point Lighthouse, built in 1912, is located nearby. “We’re definitely growing,” said Alayne with a smile. “We’re planning to produce more by being more efficient and we’re adding a new tank soon. Our public relations strategy is something we love: connecting with and meeting our customers.” Driving away, I had a new and profound respect for the creativity and passion that makes a craft spirit. WS
“Jason and I were enchanted by the beauty of the moment and wondered how we might capture the terroir and its mystique in a bottle.
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Bare Bamboo Royal Roads B Comm Project Goes International by DARCY NYBO photos DON DENTON
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/ SPRING 2019
We’ve had orders from Europe, Australia, South Korea and, of course, North America. The state of New York was our number-three top selling area behind British Columbia and Alberta.”
I
t’s not often a school project turns a profit, but in the case of five Royal Roads B Comm students, that’s exactly what happened. They not only turned a profit, the business they created is quite viable and will continue long after the project is completed. Back in early 2019, five students from across Western Canada got together and decided their B Comm project would be an online website selling an ecofriendly, renewable resource, organic product. Simon Gillett, (chief brand officer), Thomas Tobin (CEO), Bartholomew Yong (chief information officer), Ashley Monk (chief quality officer) and Michaud Smith (director of sales), decided upon bamboo toothbrushes as their product, and set out to create a business and website. “We all come from some sort of business background and work in a variety of sectors,” said Simon, the group’s only locally based resident attending the West Shore university. “I really appreciate that Royal Roads has us working with people from all over Canada, and with people who have both career and life experience.” The team worked together through the Royal Roads online portal and in group video chats. The plan was simple enough: create an online business, measure the number of people who come to the website, the number of sales, raw sales and profitability. “Choosing a product(s) came with a fair number of ethical parameters that had to be established,” Simon said. “We chose bamboo because at first we thought it was an easy product to promote, since it is renewable and organic. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of greenwashing out there with people who misbrand themselves as renewable or organic. On top of that,
as it was a requirement of the Royal Roads B Comm course, all profits had to go to a charity.” Finding a charity was easy. Once they decided on bamboo toothbrushes, they connected with Dentistry for All, a nonprofit group based out of Alberta. “This group of dentists go down to South America to do cleanings and checkups and surgery,” Simon said. “They’ve had quite a few trips and most of it is usually funded out of pocket by the dentists themselves.” With the charity part of the process in place, sourcing of products was top of mind. At first glance, one would think it would be easy to find suppliers of eco-friendly bamboo toothbrushes. Simon and his team soon discovered just how hard it could be. “We found some places that made biodegradable, organic toothbrushes, but they were covered in a substance that protected them, making them non-biodegradable. At one point we even looked at using animal hair bristles, but that thought was quickly abandoned for obvious reasons.” Eventually they found three different suppliers for three different kinds of toothbrushes, one in each of China, Vietnam and France. “The one with no paint is 100-per-cent natural and biodegradable, and comes from Vietnam. There is one with charcoal bristles and that one comes from China. The one from France has a natural biodegradable paint on it, which makes it colourful for the kids. However, the bristles in that one are not biodegradable. It was difficult to find suppliers that didn’t use nylon in their bristles. The ones we sell have bamboo bristles.” With the charity and the product line solidly in place, it was time to launch the website.
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Creating a business can be hard work, but when your business partners are located in different cities, across three provinces, that task becomes all the more complicated. Still, the five students not only met their goals, they exceeded them — because what happened next surprised the entire team. As Simon explained, “Our first month goal was to have 250 unique visitors come to website. In our first month there were 2,045 unique visitors. We also had a goal of 1,500 pages views. We more than tripled that at 4,729. Our sales goal for the first month was $750 and we did $1,562. And, we had over 20,000 views on social media. It kind of exploded.” After expenses were paid, the team was able to donate $725 after 28 days online. By the second month they had even more money to contribute to their charity. “We have a little under three months left in the course,” Simon said. “Once this project is complete, the profits all revert back to us. We won’t be keeping all of it, though. Half of our sales will go to charities of our choosing.” So far it doesn’t look like sales will be slowing down any time soon. “We’ve had orders from Europe, Australia, South Korea and, of course, North America. The state of New York was our number-three top selling area behind British Columbia and Alberta.” The team, who reside in British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Alberta, are planning on some changes to their business model. “I hope we can expand into different products and it will be something that continues to get bigger,” Simon said. “It would be wonderful if at some point this would become a more fulltime career for a few of us that want it.” Check them out online at barebambooprojects.com. WS
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Simon Gillett, of Bare Bamboo Projects, with a bamboo toothbrush.
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A Full Service Pet Care Facility 250.652.2301 • puppylove.ca • e: info@puppylove.ca 2918 Lamont Road, Saanichton Just minutes from Victoria Airport and BC Ferries Terminal
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/ SPRING 2019
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•Traditional Chinese Medicine •Acupuncture •Natural Healing Process •Over 34 years experience
250.888.6633 | drfeiyang.ca
WS INSIDER [ for the love of dogs]
photos DON DENTON Enjoying life on the West Shore, are (clockwise from top left): Gunnar, a 4-year-old Australian Shepherd/Sheltie cross, who likes to dance for treats; Wesley, a 1.5-year-old Pit Bull/Rottweiler/Shepherd/Border Collie/Duck Toller cross; Ogden, a 12-year-old Border Collie/Husky cross; Luna, a 5-month-old Golden Doodle, wet from a romp in Thetis Lake; Chloe, a 10-year-old Hound mix; and Mekka,a 3-year-old Collie/Bernese Shepherd cross.
ME ET O UR
COAST COLLECTIVE ARTS CENTRE We are a dynamic, inspiring centre, promoting art and culture, connecting community members of all ages through creative expression and explorations. Gallery exhibits bring the works of talented emerging and established Canadian artists and artisans. See ad on page 9
DALE COLLINS,
ADV E RT I S E RS
ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION BRANCH 91
JENNER CHEVROLET Fred Jenner and the staff believe the success of their Victoria GM dealership is directly related to how they care for their customers. Whether you’re shopping for a new GM vehicle or just dropping by for an oil change, you’ll be treated with the same friendly service. See ad on page 40
Prince Edward Branch #91
is a cornerstone of the community where families go to socialize. At 400,000 thousand members strong, the Legion is Canada’s community gathering place since 1926. See ad on page 13
MARKET STORES
SG POWER
Properity Planning Inc. specializes in an vast number of Financial Planning services. We are experts in Personal Planning, Estate Planning, Life Insurance, Investment Management including: Annuities, Segregated Funds, and Mutual Funds. Mutual Fund products are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. See ad on page 5
Locally owned and Family operated The Market Stores strives to deliver a wide variety of products to our customers. Great customer service, good value and knowledgeable staff allows us to give you a great experience. See ad on page 39
Serving Greater Victoria for over 50 years, SG Power is family owned & operated. Whether you are into boating, biking, or trail riding on an ATV SG Power has what your looking for. See ad on page 15
DIAMOND OPTICAL
MILLSTREAM VILLAGE
CFP EPC
QUALITY - SERVICE - VALUE We at Diamond Eyecare carry a huge selection of quality frames, and are dedicated to providing the best possible experience for our customers. We are pleased to provide personalized oneon-one service. We are proudly Island-owned and operated. See ad on page 9
SUSSEX INSURANCE is located inside the Walmart in Langford, beside the Customer Service desk and near the checkouts. Insurance services in both English and Punjabi. We offer Auto, Home, Travel, Business, Marine & Recreational Insurance. Open 9am to 9pm every day. See ad on page 35
We’re easy to find. Over 40 Shops & Services await you. 2401 Millstream Road at McCallum Road, Langford. If approaching from the Island Highway, take Exit 14 onto Millstream Road. See ad on page 2
DR. FEI YANG
PADGETT
Dr. Fei Yang is registered Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM), Chinese Medicine Herbalist and Acupuncturist of BC. She has been practice TCM and acupuncture since 1985. Her practice is based on trust, compassion and genuine desire to heal. See ad on page 36
We provide a range of services to handle time-consuming small business accounting and bookkeeping issues so our clients can become more focussed on running their businesses. See ad on page 32
HATLEY MEMORIAL GARDENS
WESTSHORE BICYCLES
WINDSOR PLYWOOD WEST SHORE
Hatley Memorial Gardens will help you customize your arrangements, while respecting your faith, taste and budget. You can feel confident putting your trust in our compassionate professionals. See ad on page 29
In the spring of 2010 long time OBB employees opened the doors of Westshore Bicycles in Langford, formerly OBB Westshore in Langford. We offer 2-3 day repair turnaround on bicycles, and we have our own rental/ demo fleet. See ad on page 6
Locally owned and operated, Windsor Plywood West Shore, and Michael Hanson and family are proud to be celebrating 30 years in the West Shore. See ad on page 7
HIGHLAND PACIFIC GOLF
PUPPY LOVE PET CARE
Highland Pacific Golf is a scenic, challenging championship golf course that is playable all year round. Highland Pacific overlooks the majestic Olympic Mountains, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Thetis Lake Park. Come visit Victoria’s Friendly Golf Course. See ad on page 13
Puppy Love Pet Care Centre and The Cat’s Meow is a full service animal care facility designed and managed out of a genuine love of animals. Call 250-652-2301 or visit our website at www. puppylove.ca to learn more about our boarding & grooming services. See ad on page 36.
MAX SEELEY, SCOTIABANK INVESTMENT SPECIALIST Available when and where you are. With my flexible and personalized approach, there’s never a wrong time to ask for advice. See ad on page 3
GET IN TOUCH WITH US
Michelle Cabana Advertising Consultant
250.588.2275
Publisher@goldstreamgazette.com
NOW OPEN ONLINE STORE
express.themarketstores.com
themarketstores.com
When you love food, you love The Market Stores. We’re better together
Join us by “putting your money where your heart is!” thinklocalvictoria.com
DOWNTOWN: 903 Yates At Quadra | 250.381.6000 | 7 am-11 pm MILLSTREAM: 125-2401 C MILLSTREAM ROAD | 250.391.1110 | 8 AM-11 PM
themarketstores.com
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WHEREVER YOUR JOURNEY TAKES YOU, WE CAN HELP YOU GET THERE
2019 Chevrolet Silverado Trailboss
Book Your Next Appointment Online
www.jennerchevbuickgmc.com www.jennerchevbuickgmc.com
1730 ISLAND HIGHWAY 1-866-281-4450
1730 ISLAND HIGHWAY 250-474-1211
Mon.–Thurs. PM s Fri.–Sat. PM s 3UNDAY n #LOSED FOR "Rowsing
VICTORIA’S TRUCK AND SUV CENTRE
15
$
Your next Service or towards the purchase of any GM Accessory, when you spend $100.00*
OFF
*Plus applicable taxes.Valid at Jenner Chevrolet Buick GMC Only. See Dealer for details. Must present coupon at time of use. Cannot be combined with other coupons or special offers from Jenner or GM Canada. Some conditions apply. Expires December 31st, 2019.
40
$
Your next Service or towards the purchase of any GM Accessory, when you spend $200.00*
OFF
*Plus applicable taxes.Valid at Jenner Chevrolet Buick GMC Only. See Dealer for details. Must present coupon at time of use. Cannot be combined with other coupons or special offers from Jenner or GM Canada. Some conditions apply. Expires December 31st, 2019.