Seaside Magazine December 2022 Issue

SEA SIDE M A G A Z I N E

YOUR SAANICH PENINSULA VOICE

DECEMBER

2022

Shortbread Showdown!

WHO BAKED THE BEST?

IN FASHION MUST BE SANTA! HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE SHOP LOCAL FOR YOUR LIST FESTIVE DÉCOR DRESS UP YOUR TABLE

WINTER TIPS

Wellness

+ YOUR HOLIDAY

KIT urvival S

celebration of natural fibers made with love in europe

butik

naturals

103 - 2506 Beacon Ave, Sidney, BC

778-351-0790

‘Tis the season…

... to get cozy with family & friends.

And let’s not forget the special seniors in our lives.

Sidney SeniorCare wishes you and your family all the best for a wonderful holiday season, and a happy and healthy New Year.

LocNew atio n

info@VictoriaSeniorCare.ca #209 – 2250 Oak Bay Avenue 250-589-0010 778-433-4784 or 250-589-0010

9752info@SidneySeniorCare.ca Third Street, Sidney 250-589-0010 250-656-7176 or 250-589-0010

!

info@OakBaySeniorCare.ca Salt Spring Island 250-538-7411 or250-589-0010 1-855-252-5641 (toll free)

OWNER / PUBLISHER SUE HODGSON 250.516.6489 sue@seasidemagazine.ca

EDITOR IN CHIEF ALLISON SMITH 250.813.1745 allison@seasidemagazine.ca

CREATIVE DIRECTOR LEAH-ANNE MACLEOD leahanne@seasidemagazine.ca

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DEBORAH ROGERS deborah@seasidemagazine.ca

ON THE COVER The Magic of Christmas.

See pg 29. Photo by Jo-Ann Erickson.

SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER JOSIE HADLEY 250.213.7455 josie@seasidemagazine.ca

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JANIS JEAN hello@janisjean.com KATHRYN ALVAREZ ms.kathryn.alvarez@gmail.com

THIS MONTH'S CONTRIBUTORS Annilee Armstrong, Jo Barnes, Anne Brodbeck, Jamila Douhaibi, Jo-Ann Erickson, Lara Gladych, Tabatha Golat, Sherrin Griffin, Janice Henshaw, Amber Isles, Tina Kelly, Paula Kully, Jackie LaPlante, Tilar J. Mazzeo, Sheila Molloy, Cassidy Nunn, Al Paterson, Patricia Pearson, Rachel Penny, Roxana Reid, Deborah Rogers, Joan Saunders, Marita Schauch, Stephanie Staples, Laurel Anne Stark, Ashley Stelck

P.O. BOX 2173, SIDNEY, B.C. V8L 3S6 news@seasidemagazine.ca To find Seaside Magazine near you, visit www.seasidemagazine.ca/get/ Get Seaside direct to your door; email news@seasidemagazine.ca for subscription details Seaside Magazine is printed 12 times a year by Mitchell Press. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Reproduction requests may be made to the editor or publisher via the above means. Views of contributors do not necessarily reflect the policy or views of the publisher and editor. Staff of the magazine cannot be held responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

We acknowledge and thank the W̱SÁNEĆ people on whose traditional territory we live and work.

TOP STORIES 10

THE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Something Local for Everyone on Your List

29

IN FASHION Santa for the Hospice

15

DAUGHTER VS MOM The Great Shortbread Showdown

44

HOLIDAY TABLE 3 WAYS Let Your Festive Theme Shine

22

2022 BOOK WRAP UP A Title for Every Taste

74

ROTARY FRUIT CAKE Holiday Fundraiser

Contents DECEMBER 2022

EVERY MONTH 8 21 28 32 34 39 40

First Word Inside Out In Fashion The Golden Years From the Kitchen Out For A …

Winter Birding Day Peninsula Voices

44 47 48 57 58 62 64 69

One Item, Three Ways Going Green Off the Vine Screen Scene Living Off the Land New & Noteworthy NIȽ TU,O

70 78 80 84 86 98 102

Arts Scene Meet Your Neighbours Seaside Book Club Stable & Field Seaside Homes Take Note Last Word

The Natural Path

Photo by Kathryn Alvarez Photography

Global Reach

Local Knowledge

Ingrid Jarisz*

Ralph Meuser

Mary Secord-Fisher

Willy Dunford*

Maryan Van Stolk*

Lori Ann Sutherland

Mona Palfreyman

Steffen Hagen

Winnie Wu

From our homes to yours, wishing you the best of the Holiday Season! * PREC = personal real estate corporation

DECEMBER 2022 YOUR SAANICH PENINSULA VOICE

Contributors

LARA GLADYCH PAGE 10

AMBER ISLES PAGE 15

CASSIDY NUNN PAGE 84

It's always a pleasure this time of year to discover and rediscover the many shops and boutiques on our beautiful Peninsula.

In this year's Holiday Gift Guide, I've featured just a few unique ideas from some of our local retailers. Get out there and indulge your inner Santa!

I was thrilled to be asked to contribute to this month's issue with my Mom. She is my number one supporter in my business, and we had so much fun with our own "Bake-off" in the shop. Plus, we love the holidays and baking, so it was the perfect fit!

The Saanich Fair is such a staple in the community and on the Saanich Peninsula.

I didn't realize how much it relies on volunteers, and always has, to keep it going. Here's hoping a new generation of volunteers can help the Fair continue to thrive in the years to come.

PATRICIA PEARSON & ASHLEY STELCK PAGE 44

RACHEL PENNY PAGE 28

DEBORAH ROGERS PAGES 74, 102

It's that time of year where we bring out all of our favorite dishes and cutlery that has been safely stored to create the perfect holiday table. In this month's "Three Ways" we've created unique and inviting tablescapes using new and vintage items from our collections and the outdoors.

I am passionate about all things self care and self love when it comes to feeling good.

With the holidays here, I wanted to share my go-to holiday makeup tips and tricks to leave readers feeling confident and inspired to try something new during this special time of the year!

Family recipes and traditions are a big part of the holiday season for many. I couldn't resist finding out more about a fruit cake recipe passed down through the generations, that is at the heart of a huge annual fundraiser. To learn the story I put on an apron and got hands on with the Rotary Club's impressive volunteers.

SANTA ISN'T THE ONLY ONE DELIVERING FOR FREE THIS SEASON! VISIT US TODAY

2410 BEACON AVENUE, SIDNEY 778.351.HERB

TRUTHANDALIBI.CA DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 7

First Word

from the

Publisher

Sue Hodgson

This jolly old man, Santa Al on our cover (and on pg 29), who brings presents to good boys and girls around the world, could really be considered as real as Superman in that he may not be a live person, but his influence is felt across the globe. And just like Superman, Santa is a superhero!

If I had to answer: "who is your hero?", I think my mind would go blank for a moment not knowing who it was supposed to be. But then in a split second I would remember that my heroes are all around me and they have carried me through to my 50s. I couldn't just pick one! We all need heroes, whether it's a family member, sports figure, a politician or a journalist.

I can remember a few years ago reading about Cathy Black, former president of Hearst Corp, and called the "first lady of American magazines" in the book Basic Black. I reread it every so often; especially when I need a boost for my inspiration. I think sometimes we might get jaded by talk of heroes as various icons fall from grace in politics, business or sports. But perhaps we all have to flounder at some point; that way we learn more about who we are and who we want to be. As we strive to become a better leader, a better mother, a better person, it helps to have heroes – great leaders you respect, relate to and get roused up by. There is a big lesson we can learn from our heroes: they are all hungry enough to dream big dreams, despite all the odds.

Like Santa! He pursues the impossible all over the world.

I'm on this journey with him, and I invite us all to stay in this conversation and explore the question together … how can I be a hero? I may not have the reindeers or a sled, but I do have hope.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Seaside Magazine!

e d i s a Se Sue

Photo by Janis Jean Photography. Clothing provided and styled by Ecotopia Naturals.

For more, visit www.ecotopianaturals.com. Shot on location at Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse.

D O W N TO W N S I D N E Y

ExploreSidney.ca/Holidays

The

Holiday

GIFT GUIDE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST

TO: Someone who

loves cozy sleepwear and sexy intimates April Cornell Forest Flannel nightie in Blue Spruce $159; Marie Jo "L’Aventure Tom" bra and panties in Majestic Blue, $159 and $58; Hanro Easy Wear eye mask, $49.

Lilypad Lingerie, Mattick's Farm

The lead-up to Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year for many – myself included! With Christmas giftgiving on our minds, we’re fortunate on the Saanich Peninsula to have so many inspiring and distinctive shopping options to peruse when looking for something that's just right for a loved one. Here, I’ve come up with some ideas from local businesses that might help with those “hard to shop for” someones on your list. LARA GLADYCH

TO: Someone who loves

one-of-a-kind collectibles and antiques Antiquarian Milton mini-books $150 each; bronze sculpture

by Jean Antoine Houdon (FR) $1200; Royal Stafford teacup and saucer $50. Galleon Books and Antiques, Sidney

TO: Someone who loves

chic and unique local décor, entertaining ware and furnishings Rims "Orient Coupe" $18; set of 4 Turkish napkins $45; Spike Pod napkin ring $14; Lumette! "London Dry" non-alcoholic distilled spirit $22.99. Avenue B, Sidney

10 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

Photos by Janis Jean Photography

TO: Someone who loves

the shoreline and island living Up-cycled checkered tote $60; 49South hand carved cribbage board $80; Spruce Babe candle $32; Bell Amy Home Studio framed artwork $75.

Spruce Clothing + Lifestyle, Brentwood Bay

TO: Someone who

loves luxurious and sustainable beauty Davines haircare products: More Inside dry texturizer $48; Heart of Glass silkening shampoo for blondes $51; Oi Oil hair beautifying potion $63. La Boutique, Sidney

TO: Someone who loves

sophisticated natural fibres and eco-clothing Lost Horizons handcrafted knitwear: "Chloe" wool mittens $64.95, and "Aubrey" wool beanie $69.95; Italians Leather "Melody" suede leather bag in Red $119.95. Butik Naturals, Sidney

TO: Someone who

loves Canadian makers and artisan designers

Yookyoung Yong Ceramics mug $43; Loop Designs by Maria Middleton peach quartz earrings $69; Sparkle Lily chrome diopside ring $69; Queen Anne Designs cork wallet $16.50. Victoria Market Collective, Mattick's Farm DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 11

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Hearing Assessments Auditory Processing Disorder Evaluation & Therapy

From Your Local Optometrists!

Balance/Vestibular Testing & Therapy

Brittani Trapp

Wax Removal Hearing Aids

Doctor of Audiology

As independent audiologists, we work for you, not a hearing aid manufacturer.

Donna Stewart Audiologist/Owner

Dr. Brendan Wallace O.D. | Dr Mike Joljart O.D. Dr. Samantha Bourdeau O.D. #101-2376 Bevan Ave, Sidney | 250.655.1122 | raydahloptical.ca

PanAlpTM Wool Sports Bra Quick-drying, breathable, dirt-repellent, odour-neutral, thermally compensating and completely degradable.

This incredible sports bra combines premium-quality merino wool with ultra lightweight mesh fabric.

Available in 32A-40E, 42A-C Open 7 days a week 113-5325 Cordova Bay Rd, at Mattick’s Farm 250.590.8032 | lilypadlingerie.com @lilypadlingerie | @lilypadvictoria

12 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

Saanichton: 778-351-1145 Brentwood: 778-426-4876

Christmas Adventures at the Country Bee

Just because life gets busy, it doesn’t mean you have to let go of seasonal traditions!

The Peninsula has a ton of farm fresh adventures throughout the summer, but finding activities and creating memories in the cold weather can be a bit of a challenge. This year Country Bee Honey Farm is bringing one of their favourite family past times to their customers.

Before they were married, Jason and Lindsay loved going to a local U-Cut farm to hunt for a Christmas tree. It was a tradition Lindsay had as a child and one that they both loved. They’d pick a day in early December, make a pot of hot chocolate (and maybe add a little Baileys!) and wander through the trees discussing which was the “perfectly imperfect tree.”

But the tradition was about more than just the tree: it was about being together and creating a memory bigger than the gifts that would eventually be piled below it.

Now with three children in tow, the family continues to enjoy this same tradition.

In 2016 when Lindsay and Jason Dault purchased the property that Country Bee now stands on, they gathered their family for a “planting party.” They spent a week digging the land, installing water lines and planting 900 tiny Douglas fir trees.

Six years later, these little guys are ready to adorn the living rooms of Saanich Peninsula families!

This December, reserve a time slot for your family to pick your own perfectly imperfect Christmas tree. Families are given a hand saw and can head to the back field. After you’ve cut your tree, just give them a call and they’ll come pick up your tree and bring it down to the store for you. While you’re waiting, go say hi to the animals!

U-Cut trees are priced at $15/ft, and reservations are required: call 250-580-0263 or email info@countrybeehoney.ca. U-Cut will run on December 10 - 11 and December 17 to 18 only. A $10 deposit is required when booking your spot.

Looking for a pre-cut tree? Pick out your own fresh pre-cut Vancouver Island grown Christmas tree from the parking lot throughout December from 10 am to 5 pm daily. Pricing ranges from $68-$95.

U-Cut Trees

DEC. 10-11 / 17-18 · 10am – 5pm · $15 per foot Call 250.580.0263 to reserve your spot!

Pre-cut Trees Available DEC. 1-24 6440 West Saanich Road, Saanichton · Open 7 Days a Week from 10 am – 5 pm

info@countrybeehoney.ca · WWW.COUNTRYBEEHONEY.CA

DAUGHTER vs. MOM

photos by Janis Jean Photography

THE GREAT SHORTBREAD SHOWDOWN

The holidays are often a time to flex your culinary muscles and impress guests with some homemade offerings that go beyond the ordinary. It's also the time of year when we have firm favourites – dishes that it just wouldn't be the holidays without. What camp do you fall in?

Tried and true, or experiment with something new?

We threw down the gauntlet and Amber Isles, owner of RockCoast Confections, and mom Roxana Reid were willing to take on the challenge. The pair squared off against each other with that essential holiday baking offering: shortbread! There's nothing wrong with a little kitchen rivalry as long as it's in the name of delicious. Join us for a Seaside Magazine Shortbread Showdown!

Sweet or Savoury? Which will you try? Whatever way your tastes lie, we know Amber's and Roxana's takes on this holiday favourite will both be a wonderful addition to your holiday season!

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 15

Amber Isles: Believe it or not, before I got into the chocolate biz I was more of a savoury gal. At the holidays I would make sweets for friends and family but personally, would tuck into a round of cheese before reaching for a cookie or chocolate. I can't say that's still true now owning a chocolate shop (haha), but I still will devour an entire plate of these meltin-your-mouth savoury cheese shortbreads.

These biscuits are so versatile and can add a wonderful element to any holiday charcuterie board. My favourite variations are spicy or herb, but you can be creative with whatever you have available in your kitchen. You can also make them into all sorts of shapes to fit any season.

Here is the recipe for my two favourites:

SAVOURY CHEESE SHORTBREAD 1 cup butter – room temperature 1 tub (230 g) MacLaren's Imperial Cheese 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 heaping tbsp fresh thyme (option 1) ½ - 1 tsp cayenne or 2 tsp hot sauce to fit your preference (option 2) 1½ cups flour 4 cups puffed rice cereal Cream the butter and cheese together. Mix in Worcestershire sauce. Mix in thyme OR cayenne/hot sauce. Taste to make sure you have added correct quantity for your liking.

Stir in flour and then puffed rice; mix just enough to combine.

16 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

Place mixture onto a lightly-floured surface and roll out dough with a floured rolling pin. I prefer to roll onto a piece of parchment paper to make removing the shapes easier. Choose a cookie cutter that is not too intricate, as the rice crisps can be a little challenging to cut through with the cookie cutter.

Roll to approximately ¼-inch thick and cut out shapes. Lay them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350° for 15 minutes (length of bake time can also be adjusted to your preference in finished product).

Enjoy!

Roxana Reid: When I was a child growing up in Victoria my grandmother, Daisy, lived not far from us and I always enjoyed visiting her. She had a cute little house with a lovely garden and we would lawn bowl in her backyard. I loved it best at Christmastime because she would always let me help her bake. She would make scones, Christmas cakes and Christmas pudding (which she always put money in).

But my very favourite to make with her were shortbread cookies. I loved the aroma in the kitchen when we baked. When the cookies were baked and just a little warm, I would get to enjoy one. DELICIOUS. Shortbread is still my favourite Christmas treat to make and eat; it brings back memories of my childhood and my grandmother. After all, what is Christmas without shortbread?

I am very fortunate that I can create delectable treats with my daughter, Amber, who is an amazing young woman! We had so much fun with this bake-off.

CRANBERRY WHITE CHOCOLATE WHIPPED SHORTBREAD 1 ¼ cups softened butter 1 cup sifted icing sugar 2 ¼ cups sifted flour ½ cup chopped dried cranberries ½ cup chopped white chocolate Cream the butter and sugar together. Mix in the flour and beat for 8-10 minutes. Fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate.

Try Them Both for Yourself!

Drop from a teaspoon onto a parchmentlined cookie sheet, placing them approximately 2" apart. Dip a fork in flour and press the cookies down to flatten them.

Bake at 350° for approximately 15-17 minutes until the bottoms are lightly browned.

(The dried cranberries and white chocolate can be eliminated to make a plain shortbread cookie.)

1

6536 West Saanich Rd, Saanichton 250.652.8338 patiogardens.ca

Wander the colourful plant-filled aisles, or take a tour of our gift shop which is filled now with Christmas treasures. Annual Christmas Market is Dec. 3rd from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m!

Patio Gardens Join us at our Saanichton Garden Centre, known in our community as “the happy place.”

1720 McTavish Rd, North Saanich 778.351.0088 mctavishacademy.ca

Designed, made and packaged in North Saanich. Over 30 designs to select from and all supplies included. Create your custom work of art.

3 McTavish Academy of Art Art Kits Creativity For All Ages!

2 9811 Seaport Pl, Sidney 250.665.7511 salishseacentre.org

Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea A proud supporter of local artists, the aquarium’s store features a selection of locally designed jewelry, clothing, cards, pottery, art and artisanal foods as well as books, games and educational activities. Purchases support independent artists, small businesses and the non-profit aquarium’s marine education and conservation initiatives.

105-2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney 778.351.2773 | Or shop online: HansellHalkett.com

We offer carefully curated vintage home décor and refinished furniture as well as local art and a wonderful selection of handmade gifts. Come and see our newest line of handmade pottery from Farmhouse pottery (pictured here).

Open seven days a week.

4

Hansell & Halkett Vintage Home Decor

5

9719 First Street, Sidney 250.896.6540

Vintage furniture, unique housewares, something for everyone on your Christmas list.

The Shop It’s Christmas time in Sidney and our artisans have gathered with greeting cards, birdhouses, custom signs, throw rugs, twistography, candles & more.

9

101-2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney 778.351.3500 thefarmersdaughter.co

Share the love of cheese and wine with our gift baskets, holiday boxes and monthly subscription clubs.

Our specialty cheese shop is filled with lots of goodies and our wine bar is fully stocked!

The Farmer’s Daughter Wine and dine while you shop this holiday season!

10

Bosley’s

by Pet Valu Our staff are ready to welcome you into our store and help you find the perfect holiday solutions, gifts and even clothing for your pets!

4 - 2353 Bevan Ave, Sidney 250.656.6977 bosleys.com

We have everything you need to keep your pets happy this holiday season.

1885 Forest Park Dr, North Saanich panoramarecreation.ca

102-2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.656.0011 muffetandlouisa.com

8

Panorama Recreation Give the Gift of Recreation!

Gift cards make the “Perfect Gift” for anyone and can be loaded with any amount. Looking for a stocking stuffer? Passes are available for youth 6-18yrs, cost $6/5 passes or $22/25 passes and are valid December 26-January 1st.

Stop by Panorama Recreation Centre or Greenglade Community Centre today.

muffet & louisa 10 reasons to shop muffet & louisa! Italian Panettone; Scottish shortbread; Peugeot Pepper mills; Patience Brewster “Krinkles;” Garneau sheepskin slippers; Alpaca throws and scarves from Peru; Luxurious German flannel; free gift wrapping; Easy exchange and return policies; if we don’t have your gift, we would love to help you find it from one of the lovely stores in Sidney.

7

9816 Seaport Pl, Sidney 778.426.3088 Online store: ecotopianaturals.com

6 Ecotopia Naturals Comfortable, stylish, local, and natural! Looking for the right outfit or the perfect gift?

Eco is always in style. Ladies’ and Men’s clothing in hemp, bamboo, linen, organic cotton, and more!!

We have locally-made jewelry, body care, and plastic reducing solutions.

Household cleaners & soap refillery.

250.656.3486 | #107 - 2360 Beacon Avenue, Sidney

From Our House to Your House PEMBERTON HOLMES SIDNEY wishes each and every one of you a wonderful holiday season and the very best in 2023!

Inez Louden

Ann Watley

Gaye Phillips

Patrick Achtzner

Lisa Redding

Erin Mackenzie

Wendy Herrick

Stephen Postings

Offering Real Estate Sales with Commercial, Residential and Strata Property Management Service Divisions www.pembertonholmes.com

INSIDE OUT

by Anne Brodbeck Streams Counselling

Your Holiday Survival Kit The holidays are upon us and they can come with mixed emotions. To really enjoy the season a holiday survival kit would be a great gift to give yourself. So what would that look like? Here are some ideas.

1. Check your Boundaries. Set limits. What is your yes and what is your no? Be aware of and listen to the signs you've had enough. It's perfectly acceptable to give yourself permission to keep a meeting short.

A good resource is Boundaries by Henry Cloud and John Townsend.

2. Create an Emotional Budget. Just like creating a budget when we go shopping, we need to create a budget for our emotional energy.

The best way to establish this is to start with an inventory of your resources such as time, circumstances, energy, fatigue level or travel.

Allocate emotional energy. To ascertain this ask yourself things like: • What is the optimal amount of time you're willing to spend at this event, or with this person? Be aware of quality time rather than quantity.

• To help you gauge how long to stay, reflect on past experiences.

What made them successful or disastrous? You may need to take a break or stay elsewhere.

• Predetermine answers to what you know your relatives may say.

Decide on the amount of information you wish to share, and be careful to avoid topics likely to spark arguments.

• Look for opportunities to apologize for past quarrels.

• Formulate answers for favours you may be asked.

• Agreeing to disagree may be a more loving approach to family members with different opinions.

• What is your exit plan if things go crazy?

3. Tools to Employ – as required.

• Permission – when you find your energy depleting and diplomacy evaporated, allow yourself to take a break.

• Breathing – breathe and stay calm.

• Listen – take time to listen and ask questions. Respond rather than react by being mindful of your own thoughts and behaviour. It's perfectly natural to change the subject or allow distraction to bring a new topic forward.

• Lower expectations. Be aware that some family members may be unable to meet your standards of behaviour. Be respectful of their limitations and choose gracious communication.

4. Self Care. In order to be fully present, have a self-care plan in place. Some ideas here are: • Allow yourself enough down time.

• Ground yourself with whatever makes you feel balanced, such as exercise and personal routines.

• Focus on the positive aspects of your family visit. Dwelling on the negative will ignite anxiety and likely hinder your enjoyment.

5. Put Fun into Family.

• Be ready with light, uplifting topics of conversation.

• Prepare interactive games or activities that are whimsical in nature.

Remember, your presence is a gift. Keep things light and lower your expectations. You are responsible for your own emotions and actions, not other people.

For more information, visit www.streamscounselling.ca.

Make it a stress-less holiday season!

1. Be realistic. The holidays don’t have to be perfect or the same as years past.

Choose a few traditions to hold on to, and be open to creating new ones.

2. Plan ahead. Set aside

specific days for shopping, visiting friends or other activities to help prevent last minute scrambling.

3. Take a breather.

Spending just 15 minutes alone may refresh you enough to handle what you need to do.

4. Take care. Look after your own physical health by resting, eating well and exercising regularly.

your community, your health 250-656-2948 sphf.ca DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 21

During the Holiday Season more than ever, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made and continue to make our business possible.

In this spirit and these trying times we sincerely thank you and wish you a healthy, happy and safe Holiday Season.

Holiday Book Wrap-Up

2022

Seasons Greetings from all of us at Alford Walden Law

by Jackie LaPlante

– Dominique, Julia, Jody, Daneeka & Darrel

River of the Gods Candice Millard

778.426.3330 | #216 -2506 Beacon Ave, Sidney | www.alfordwalden.com Business & Corporate Law • Commercial Law • Real Estate Wills & Estate Planning • Estate & Trust Administration • Notary Services

SENIORS’ DAY

The Marriage Portrait Maggie O'Farrell

Dec 29th

10%

of f

iced regular prdi merchan se

Every pet has a wish list

Find them the perfect gift

Every pet has a wish list Love Lives Here

OPEN

Bosley’s Sidney

A WEEK!

250.656.6977 www.bosleys.com @BosleysSidney

7 DAYS

In 1857 British explorers Richard Burton and John Hanning Speke set out to discover the source of the Nile. Despite moraledefying hardship, lifethreatening illness and persistent professional rivalry, the adventurers push on to eventual success. Burton’s diaries depict his empathetic recognition and treatment of the courageous African guides, who prove invaluable to the expedition. Candice Millard’s detailed account, featuring diary excerpts, letters and photographs, is enjoyable to history buffs and armchair travellers alike.

#4-2353 Bevan Avenue

22 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

Inspired by a historical account of a teenaged girl forced to marry to ensure her family’s dynastic success, Maggie O’Farrell takes us deep into the luscious rooms of Lucrezia di Medici’s family palazzo and of her new husband’s court. Although initially playful and attractive, Alfonso reveals a dark side that Lucrezia distrusts.

As with O'Farrell's Hamnet, the writing is evocative and character development so well-defined that it fully immerses the reader in Italian court life.

Half-Baked Harvest Every Day

E.J. Hughes: Canadian War Artist

Tieghan Gerard

Robert Amos

Colorado-based food blogger Tieghan Gerard’s latest cookbook promises “balanced, flexible, feel-good meals”. It does just that, with modern recipes such as ”Pizza Pasta” and “Coq au Vin Meatballs,” accompanied by warm, goldenbaked photographs perfect for rainy day browsing. The lists of easily available ingredients are clear, and each recipe features just the right amount of author chat. Coded labels denote dishes as vegetarian, gluten-free, etc, and Gerard offers modern lifts to familiar favourites.

B.C.-born painter E.J.Hughes served as a war artist from 1939-1946, depicting scenes of military life from Petawawa to England. Robert Amos has produced a comprehensive biography that is as much for historians as art aficionados.

Each page features a sketch or painting.

A biographical summary in Hughes’ own hand graces the front and back inner covers, and the illustrated letters to his wife are particularly charming.

All the Quiet Places

Prisoners of the Castle

Brian Thomas Isaac

Ben Macintyre

Five-year-old Eddie lives a quiet life on an Okanagan reserve with his loving mother and grandmother. His innocent perspective is rocked when he enrols in the off-reserve school and experiences racial bullying. GG Prize nominee Brian Thomas Isaac writes in calm and simple language, but simmering undercurrents are present.

The setting reflects the natural beauty of the Okanagan in simpler times while depicting the realities of growing up Indigenous in Canada in the 1960s and 70s.

Ben Macintyre returns with another history that reads like a thriller. WWII Allied prisoners held in the formidable Colditz Castle repeatedly attempt escape by increasingly daring and ingenious methods.

Macintyre details the microcosm of daily life in prison, depicting interactions between Douglas Bader, Pat Reid and other British, French, and Polish soldiers and their German captors. Insightful portraits of captives and jailers and often amusing anecdotes make this book an informative historical account of wartime intrigue.

Mindful of Murder Susan Juby

Set in a spiritual retreat on an island near you, this “cozy” mystery is a hilarious delight. Helen, a Buddhist nun (and butler), is called to the Yatra Institute after the owner dies. She must determine which of several possible heirs should inherit the business. When Helen suspects that the death was not accidental, she enlists butler friends to assist. Nanaimo author Susan Juby, a prize-winning humourist, peoples the story with a roster of wacky characters.

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 23

As we reflect on the year gone, our hearts are filled with hope and gratitude. We are deeply honoured to serve our clients and communities across the island.

We thank you for placing your trust in us and look forward to serving you in the New Year. Wishing you and yours an abundance of love, good health and joy this holiday season.

OFFICE SPACE COMING SOON TO DOWNTOWN SIDNE Y THE AGENCY VICTORIA | 778.265.5552 E XPLORE RE AL ESTATE AT THE AGENCYRE.COM 101-960 YATES STREET, VICTORIA, BC V8V 3M3 THE AGENCY VICTORIA IS AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED FRANCHISEE OF THE AGENCY REAL ESTATE FRANCHISING, LLC

Wishing you a Wonderful Holiday Season From Our Peninsula Team

Terry Stockus

David Parry

TERRY.STOCKUS@THEAGENCYRE.COM 250.588.7933

DAVID.PARRY@THEAGENCYRE.COM 250.634.8356

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

REALTOR®

H o l y i da y p p a s

H from Your Saanich Peninsula Businesses Wishing everyone a warm and wonderful holiday season. May the New Year be abundant with joy and health for all.

From The Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa 9805 Seaport Place, Sidney 250.655.9445 www.sidneypier.com

From my family to yours – wishing you a fun, festive Holiday Season with health & happiness for the New Year.

Merry Christmas!

2444 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.656.4626 www.ingridjarisz.com

Best Wishes for the New Year and Thanks for all of your support!

2459 Beacon Ave, Sidney 778.426.1113 www.villagegallerysidney.com

Our Saanich Physio + team wishes you a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!

250.652.0132 250.479.5112 www.saanichphysio.com

Hoping your holidays are full of laughter, good friends & exceptional food!

From the Sea Glass family to you & yours!

2320 Harbour Rd, Sidney 778.351.3663 www.seaglasswaterfrontgrill.com

Thank You!

Wishing you a Wonderful Holiday Season and a Happy, Healthy New Year.

1A - 2353 Bevan Ave, Sidney 778.351.2113 sidneymattress.com

From our Brown’s The Florist family to yours, wishing you comfort, hope and joy for the holidays and always.

2499 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.656.3313 www.brownstheflorist.com

Wishing you and your family a Happy Holiday Season and Best Wishes for the New Year from all of us at LML Cleaning Services Inc. info@lmlcleaning.ca 250.413.7313 www.lmlcleaning.ca

From our Alford Walden Law family to yours, wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year!

216 - 2506 Beacon Ave, Sidney 778.426.3330 www.alfordwalden.com

Warmest Holiday Greetings from our DFH family to yours, and best wishes for a wonderful, healthy New Year!

2405 Bevan Ave, Sidney 250.656.0131 www.dfh.ca

Photo by Kathryn Alvarez Photography

FAMILY, MEMORIES & A BRIGHT FUTURE

by Jamila Douhaibi

On Harbour Road in Sidney,

located at Van Isle Marina, is Sea Glass Waterfront Grill. Wrapped in windows with a patio overlooking the marina, this family-owned gem was opened by Ron and Maureen Vincent in 2012.

The couple were relocating to the Saanich Peninsula and heard that the empty space was for lease. Ron, who had been a chef for over 30 years and had always dreamed of having his own place, was drawn to the space because his stepmother had run a lunch spot called Fisherman's Wharf there a few decades earlier. Maureen says that "before we knew what hit us, we were incorporating a company … and Sea Glass Waterfront Grill was born."

Ron brought experienced staff that he had worked with before onto the team, including his son Zachary in 2013, who was in the kitchen alongside his father. Over the years many family members, including brothers, nieces and even Ron's mother Jacquie, worked for the restaurant.

The staff shared numerous celebrations together, including birthdays, Christmas gift exchanges and after-hours meals. With its exceptional service, incredible food and spectacular views, the business has thrived as a popular stop for both residents, and those passing through.

When Covid hit, like all dine-in restaurants Sea Glass had to shut down for three months. This, along with the tragedy of Maureen's son Thomas passing, led Ron and Maureen to decide to retire early and move to the Cariboo. Zach, who had been cooking and learning to run a restaurant for years, along with his partner Ann Lockley, decided to purchase the

restaurant from Ron and Maureen. With the effects of the pandemic on all industries still a big concern, it was a strange time to take over Sea Glass.

But, says Ann: "neither of us wanted to see it go to strangers … Sea Glass is a member of the family and it is the reason we met."

Zach was working at the restaurant over the 2013 Christmas holidays. Ann was living in her boat at Van Isle Marina and spent many evenings at Sea Glass that winter. "Ron and the staff were always welcoming and I soon became a regular," says Ann. And still, almost 10 years later, Ann says that the staff are the greatest asset to the place. Many people have been there for six or more years, and some staff once left, only to return.

Maureen says that she and Ron are "eternally grateful to all the staff who worked so hard," and that they want to express a "huge gratitude also to all of the loyal guests, many who became friends." For the couple, it's bittersweet to be leaving the restaurant, but they are so excited to see the legacy continue and this next chapter unfold.

Zach and Ann have been running Sea Glass for the last year and a half. Now that it's officially theirs, they look forward to keeping the traditions going, while also adding a few pieces to make the place their own. "We can accommodate parties from two to 50 and everything in between," says Zach, "and with some additions to our dinner menu, there is something for everyone."

With the amazing dishes Sea Glass is known for, a beautiful space and great staff, new owners Zach Vincent and Ann Lockley say that "the future of Sea Glass is bright."

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 27

I N FA S H I O N

by Rachel Penny, Esthetician and Makeup Artist, Miss Penny Esthetics

Illuminate Your Look Over the Holiday Season!

It's the season of dressing up in your finest attire and adding some extra sparkle to your everyday makeup looks. Why not add that extra pop of colour with a bold lip or an illuminating highlight to complete your festive look by trying some new makeup techniques?

With makeup trends constantly changing, it can be overwhelming to

know what to try and how to step into a more glam look for those holiday parties.

Here are some easy makeup tips to suit any skill level and any age as a fun way to brighten up your routine this time of year!

Now, you absolutely can't go wrong with a bold lip and that doesn't necessarily have to mean red. From a nude lipstick to a dark crimson, everyone

Three Lovely Places to Shop for Christmas This Year

muffet & louisa 102 - 2360 Beacon Ave in the garden courtyard in Sidney

muffet & louisa part 2 with Hansell & Halkett Vintage Furniture 105 - 2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney

www.muffetandlouisa.com from the comfort of home 28 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

can achieve a bold lip based on the colours they're comfortable with. Try applying lip liner before your lipstick and slightly overline your natural lip area, providing the illusion of a fuller lip and staying power for your lipstick.

Complete the look with a little bit of highlight on the cupid's bow for extra fullness and illumination.

This time of year can make our complexion look and feel a bit dull. A good option to counteract this is to apply an illuminating primer before any foundation to create a supple, glowing complexion.

You can also apply highlighting powder to the high points of the face (cheekbones, browbones, the bridge of the nose, inner eyes, chin and forehead) to define your facial features and give you a "glow from within" look.

Complete your look with bold blush – a must have for this season.

For the eyes, try softer, smoky undertones of your favourite neutral bases and iridescent shadows while avoiding anything too dark this season. Add a little pop of highlight to the inner eye.

If you're feeling bold, complete the look with lengthening mascara or if you're really feeling adventurous, try adding some strip lashes!

I hope these tips and tricks inspire you this holiday season and your holiday looks feel complete and confident as you celebrate with friends and family.

For more information visit https://www. vagaro.com/us02/misspennyesthetics.

In your closet? Santa: a large collection of various suits, mostly red and white. On your wish list? Santa: safe toys for children. Do away with the guns and bombs. Revert to playing outside games. Al: gotta go along with Santa. When you want a night out? Santa: a quiet supper in Tuktoyaktuk with Mrs. Claus, with after dinner drinks of Moose Milk on the Milky Way. Al: A nice dinner at the Keg followed by star gazing on Mt. Tolmie.

SEASIDE talks with Al Paterson – and Santa! – about what's

in FASHION …

Al Paterson donates all money raised through his Santa appearances to Victoria Hospice. For more information on his bookings and how to donate, visit www. santaforthehospice.com.

When adding colour to your outfit? Santa: A green scarf blowing in the wind while driving my sleigh. In haircare? Santa: whale oil. Al: beard oil, buffing/shining cloth for the head. When you don’t care how much it costs? Santa: a cell phone with North Pole reception. Al: a trip to New Zealand. On your bedside table? Santa: alarm clock set for October, pictures of Mrs. Claus, a group shot of the reindeer. Al: a group shot of me and my wife, me and my children, and me and my grandchildren, and an alarm clock (not plugged in).

In your shaving kit? Santa: toothbrush, razor, deodorant and peppermint mouthwash.

Al: About the same. When it comes to your go-to “uniform?” Santa: always revert to my basic outfit. It has worked for centuries. Al: dark trousers, light pastel shirts, comfortable shoes.

On your feet? Santa: fur-lined boots. Al: Bruno Marc, Puma.

Photos by Jo-Ann Erickson

What's Happening eni en nin ing ng Michael Kaeshammer

Monday, December 5 & Tuesday, December 6

Michael Kaeshammer has invested a lot – countless hours at the keyboard, hundreds of recordings, thousands of live performances, millions of miles in the air and on the road – all in pursuit of a mastery of 12 notes across 88 keys. But for the acclaimed Canadian pianist and singer, there is no set destination, no achievable end point on his path; it’s all about the journey itself, and that journey will always be ongoing.

Many of those experiences have also helped to hone his skills as a vocalist and lyricist to the point that Kaeshammer is now pushing firmly into the realm of pop crossover as exemplified with his latest collection, Turn It Up. Expected in the Spring of 2023, the 10-track collection finds Kaeshammer building on his mastery of the keyboard with deft and dynamic tinges of modern pop. The result is simultaneously his most ambitious and accessible offering to date, its songs and stories both instantly engaging yet deserving of a deep, disarming dive.

“This pandemic made me reflect on life and what’s most important,” says Kaeshammer in closing. “The songwriting on Turn It Up is rooted in these thoughts and served as a good reminder of the joy that music brings me. I can’t wait to share that joy with an audience again.”

Turn It Up seems like a particularly fitting label for this exciting new stage in an already-illustrious career; however, despite all the achievements and accolades – the JUNO Awards, the shows on iconic stages with international stars and symphony orchestras, the strings of stellar reviews from major media outlets – Michael Kaeshammer doesn’t rest on his laurels; these are merely temporary stops on his journey, and as always, he’s solely focused on reaching the next one, and then the one after that.

Big Hank's Blues Songs of Christmas

Saturday, December 17

Big Hank has been touring his Blues Songs of Christmas show for a number of years now and this unique, variety filled program of blues-basted Yuletide tunes is one that has left audiences drenched in the Christmas spirit and coming back for more when the next holiday season rolls around.

This refreshing take on holiday concerts finds the singer and his talented, veteran band rolling through music that includes tunes going back a century to Christmas blues tunes that have been favourites of the boomer generation that grew up listening to B.B. King and Eric Clapton.

Touring from Vancouver Island to the snowbound prairies of Alberta, this Christmas show has consistently tied together a variety of classic blues styles, some r&b and a touch of soul. Blues Songs of Christmas is a show where every song puts a different spin on the season and everything that goes with “the most wonderful time of the year.”

Upcoming Events December 2-4

Alice in Pantoland December 23-30

Alice meets the White Rabbit in her garden and is intrigued when he disappears down a hole in the ground. She decides to follow him and finds herself in Pantoland, the town where pantomime characters live in the off-season. She learns that she has arrived on the day that Prince Charming is to be crowned king but that he has been kidnapped by the Ice Queen to prevent his coronation from taking place.

And the queen has a wicked scheme to take over Pantoland!

The townsfolk decide that the prince must be rescued. But how? They eventually come up with a plan but must make sure that the Queen’s guards, Tweedledum and Tweedledumber, do not get in their way.

Will everything run smoothly? Will Alice and her new friends succeed in rescuing the prince before the coronation? Well it is a pantomime with songs and jokes to relieve the tension! Reserve your seats to cheer on the goodies and stop the Ice Queen from succeeding in her evil plot.

New Years Evening

With the Chris Millington Band

Saturday, December 31

Goodbye 2022! Hello 2023! Join us for A Classic New Year’s Evening with the Chris Millington Band. Celebrate in style, dance the evening away with friends and be home at a reasonable hour.

5&6 5 9-11 11 14

The Peninsula Singers, The Gift of Christmas Michael Kaeshammer Blood Donor Clinic Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair A Celtic Christmas with Denis Donnelly A Wonderheards Christmas Carol

16 17 23-30 31

Steve Middleton and Guest Artists Big Hank's Blues Songs of Christmas Peninsula Players, Alice in Pantoland New Year's with Chris Millington Band

15

The Festive Brass Ensemble Holiday Horns

January 2 20 24 27 28 30

Blood Donor Clinic Burns Night: The Bard & His Ballads Tanika Charles and STORRY Harry Manx Greater Victoria Police Pipe Band Robbie Burns Dinner Blood Donor Clinic

February 2 17 18

Darren Lee & the Memphis Flash Palm Court A Valentine for You The Return of Barracuda

March 2 23

Sloan Percussiano 3

The Chris Millington Band has been entertaining audiences for over 30 years featuring great vocals, hot horns, and laying down the funk, this 7-piece, highenergy band covers all genres providing a little something to keep everyone on the dance floor.

Your ticket includes party favours, tasty appys, wacky photobooth a glass of sparkling champagne for a toast, and a full cash bar!

2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney | 250-656-0275 | marywinspear.ca

THE GOLDEN YEARS

by Sherrin Griffin VP, Operations, Sidney SeniorCare

Holiday Season Not Always Bright for Seniors It seems like every year the holidays become more poignant …. for me anyway. With family members getting older and remembering those who have passed on, I have become excruciatingly aware of the importance of treasuring each and every minute of the holiday season.

In light of healthcare crises, rising interest rates, climate change and economic instability, the holiday season always shines through the same time every year like a stubborn beacon of hope, uniting us all in the common spirit of good will towards others and peace on earth.

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali or another cultural or religious festival, it is a truly special time to observe age-old traditions and gather together young and old to enjoy the beauty of the season. The holiday season has the incredulous power to change our focus from the drudgery of our daily routines and worrisome state of the world to the beautiful simplicity of

Vancouver Island’s Office Outfitters

Call, email or visit us at our Sidney location (9839 Fifth Street) 250.384.0565 | hello@monk.ca | monk.ca/copy-centres

32 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

decorating our homes and offices, cooking and baking seasonal delights, gathering in celebration, and showing kindness towards and appreciation of others with thoughtful holiday gestures and gifts.

I observe Christmas, and I find myself wishing it would come more than once a year. Imagine the boundless opportunities for spreading more love, joy and compassion?

Although many of us eagerly anticipate the impending holiday season with childhood delight, myself included, not all of us feel that way. And while the holidays profess to be a time of joy, with that may come unrealistic expectations and unrealized hopes and dreams, leading to feelings of being let down and even depression.

While walking Roxy at the local dog park last weekend, I ran into a fellow dog lover, a senior, who I hadn't seen for quite some time.

While we caught up on our lives on a park bench, she admitted to me that she had spent Christmas alone last year, and most likely would do the same this year. Although subconsciously I know this is the case for far too many seniors, I was nevertheless mortified to hear it.

But, the reality is that her story is not unlike many seniors these days.

Having been divorced for decades, with children living in another province and finding it hard to connect with other like-minded seniors her age, my friend had found herself alone and miserable on Christmas Day, while others were celebrating with family and/or friends. I made a silent vow to myself to make sure I checked in with her more regularly, and suggested lunch the following weekend.

According to the B.C. Care Providers Association: "spending as little as one hour with a senior living alone or in care over Christmas can help mitigate serious health effects, including a higher risk of mortality, caused by loneliness and social isolation."

Over the last few holiday seasons, Covid has certainly magnified the solitude, with many seniors afraid to risk family gatherings, and wellmeaning family members afraid to infect their elderly relatives. While there have been necessary precautions to take over the last few years, I think we have now learned that those precautions must be tempered with understanding and compassion of the terrible toll that reduced visitations have taken on our elderly. With Statistics Canada stating that in 2018 almost 30% of Canadian seniors lived alone, and that over 20% of seniors say they want more social interaction, it's a sobering reminder of our responsibilities as conscientious members of society.

We may tell ourselves that we can't possibly make any kind of real difference on our own, BUT a small gesture or even the tiniest gift of time for a senior in need could very well be their best holiday gift of all.

THE TIME IS NOW

Life at Amica Beechwood Village is once again its wonderful, normal self. Take walks in the private gardens. Enjoy extraordinary cuisine, anytime. Catch up with loved ones, face-to-face.

Experience exceptional Assisted Living care and support in a premium residence with safe social connections that make life easier, and better, for everyone. Right now.

S C H E D U L E A P R I VAT E T O U R T O DAY To learn more, please call Bonnie or Maria at 250-655-0849 today.

2 31 5 M I L L S R D

A M IC A .C A / BEECH WOODV I LL AGE

F R O M T H E K I TC H E N

by Joan Saunders | photos by Amanda Cribdon Photography

Scents of the Season Certain scents pull me back to a specific

time or place. When I smell cedar shavings, I am reminded immediately of my grandfather's workshop. Lilac recalls a friend's garden and cinnamon, ginger and sweet caramel always make me think of baking with my family over the holiday season.

This recipe fills the kitchen with cozy, festive, rich aromas and even though I didn't grow up eating sticky toffee pudding, it's become one of my favorite options to serve in the winter months. And I love making the individual puddings, as they look so gorgeous topped with a lavish serving of caramel sauce. In this case, more is the only way to go.

These are a generous treat for one person, so you could cut them in half after baking to serve more people, but it all depends on who is invited for dessert. Some of my friends would 34 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

be affronted not to get the entire individual pudding even if I've seen them, after a hearty meal, falter as they face the final few bites.

Who am I to deny them the challenge of just one more rich, caramelly mouthful?

Sugared cranberries and dried oranges round out the visual and taste experience of these puddings, but both are festive options for decorating other desserts throughout the season. Keeping some on hand gives you a quick, colourful way to augment the flavour and presentation of holiday recipes. And when you pull these puddings out of the oven, drizzle on the sauce, add some toppings and bring them to the table, you'll be rewarded with one of the best gifts of the season: the joy of being with friends and family and the warm, satisfying scents and tastes of a sensational winter dessert.

Individual Sticky Toffee Puddings

Sugared Cranberries

Makes 6 servings

2 ½ cups sugar, water & 3-4 cups cranberries (as desired)

Pudding 6 dates, pitted, chopped 1/3 cup currants 1/3 cup dried cranberries 1 tsp baking soda 1 cup boiling water 3 tbsp butter (room temperature) 1 cup packed golden brown sugar Sauce 1 cup golden brown sugar ¾ cup whipping cream

2 eggs 1 ½ cups flour 2 tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt ½ tsp cinnamon ¼ tsp ground ginger

1 tsp vanilla 2 tbsp butter

Preheat oven to 350°. Grease six eight-ounce souffle cups or mini non-stick pudding tins. Mix dates, currants, cranberries, baking soda in a heatproof bowl. Pour in boiling water, let stand 15 minutes. Beat 3 tbsp butter and 1 cup brown sugar until well combined. Beat in eggs.

Beat in soaked fruit mixture, including liquid. Combine flour, baking powder, salt and spices in another bowl; gradually beat into wet mix.

Spoon batter into prepared tins. Set cups/tins in a sided baking pan filled with an inch or so of hot water. Bake 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in centre of a pudding pulls out clean.

Make sauce by combining all ingredients in small pot. Bring to boil, stirring; then reduce heat to its lowest setting, gently simmer for 5 minutes.

Cool puddings slightly before unmolding onto plates. Drizzle with caramel sauce; serve. Decorate, if desired, with sugared cranberries and/or dried orange slices.

Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar in saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat until sugar dissolves and mix starts to simmer around edges. Cool syrup to room temperature.

When syrup is cool, add cranberries; stir to coat. Work in batches if necessary. Let cranberries sit in syrup for a couple of minutes to soak. Remove cranberries with slotted spoon and place them on a cooling rack over a pan to drain. Let dry for about an hour. Can save syrup for cocktails or for another batch of cranberries.

Pour remaining 1 ½ cups sugar into shallow dish; roll cranberries, a few at a time, in sugar until well coated. Let dry completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Dried Oranges oranges, tea towel, metal cooling rack & baking tray Slice oranges into thin rounds (about 1 cm/half inch). Pat dry with clean towel. Place orange slices on metal cooling rack (one that can go in the oven) over a baking tray so that air can circulate around easily. Put in low oven (120°) for about three hours, turning every half hour or so. Important: keep checking. The thinner they are, the quicker they will dry. Watch for burning.

The oranges are ready when dry to touch. Will still be a bit sticky.

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 35

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

Happy Holidays

Tree & Landscape Ltd.

DELIVERING BOTH A LANDSCAPE AND A LIFESTYLE FOR OUR CLIENTS At Garden City Tree & Landscape LTD, making you happy with the outside of your home is our top priority. No matter what your outdoor goals may be, our team is here to help bring them to life and make your dream landscape a reality.

We have our own topsoil and mulch production facility and own all of the necessary equipment for your projects, allowing us to provide you with a seamless and efficient landscaping experience. Our comprehensive in-house expertise also saves you the hassle of working with multiple landscape contractors. Whatever your project requires, you can depend on our team for quality work that will provide you with a vibrant and healthy outdoors for years to come.

Contact our landscape team today to begin the transformation of your property.

“

Excellent quality.

Excellent value. Professional, respectful and courteous.

Personable. Prompt and timely. Outstanding work ethic.

~ P. Keenan

”

LANDSCAPE DESIGN | MAINTENANCE (including Tree Services) | CONSTRUCTION 250.385.4858 | info@victoriagardencity.ca | victoriagardencity.ca

A Pet Care Centre That Loves Your Pets as Much as You Do!

Comfortable, clean & healthy fresh air environment Exercise yards up to one quarter acre Feline “Cuddle Time” • K-9 Playschool course All managerial staff “Certified Kennel Technicians” Recommended by veterinarians • Full grooming services available

A Full Service Pet Care Facility

250-652-2301 2918 Lamont Road, Saanichton puppylove.ca • email: info@puppylove.ca Just minutes from Victoria Airport & BC Ferries Terminal

2536 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.656.5676

Happy Holidays from Bayshore Home Health!

Back row L to R: Hitesh, Dayna, Lacey & Chris

Front row L to R: Russel, Sophia, Lisa, Terra & Jessica

In Sidney call 778 749 0014 | Sidney@bayshore.ca | www.bayshore.ca Contribution to Community 2016, Employer of the Year 2018

Business Excellence in Health Care Award 2017 & 2019 www.businessexaminer.ca

2019 WINNER

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 37

MEET OUR TEAM PROUDLY SERVING THE SAANICH PENINSULA

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Chace Whitson

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Shawn Dubois

Chris Gillespie

250.818.9338

250.686.3182

778.922.2427

250.888.9713

Rose Root

Brent Going

Kimberly Legeard

Devin Sorenson

250.508.0112

403.875.4080

250.217.9751

250.418.5565

REALTOR®

Erik Rapatz

REALTOR®

REALTOR®

We're local. We're global.® 778.426.2262 | 2411 Bevan Avenue, Sidney | macrealty.com Macdonald Realty Ltd. This communication is not intended to cause or induce breach of an existing agency agreement.

REALTOR®

Personal Real Estate Corporation

O U T F O R A … W I N T E R B I R D I N G D AY

by Sheila Molloy

Martindale Valley For over 100 years, the Christmas Bird Count, a longstanding program of the National Audubon Society, finds volunteers from across Canada, the U.S. and many countries to count birds for an early-winter bird census for a 24-hour period.

The Martindale Valley (also called Martindale Flats by local birders) on our Saanich Peninsula has been hailed as one of the best routes in Canada for the census for the volume and variety of birds that can be found during that census and all autumn and winter long.

This location is a fabulous place for anyone looking to spot and identify a variety of bird species any time of the year, but is spectacular in the autumn and winter.

The entire area is agricultural with wide-open plains, a tasty selection of field leftovers, and wet drain ditches that make it a prime opportunity for an assortment of ducks, geese, swans, hawks and more!

According to the bird count notes and e-bird (https://ebird.org/region/ CA-BC-CP) you can find American wigeon, snow goose, Canada goose, northern pintail, green-winged teal, northern shoveler, ring-necked duck, lesser scaup, common goldeneye, red-tailed hawk, hooded merganser and even an occasional Eurasian wigeon. The trumpeter swan is another possibility and other unique finds include short-eared owls and, according to some records, snowy owls can be spotted.

The route itself can be driven, walked or biked. For this adventure we drove and walked. The area is beautiful in the autumn, so the rural landscape makes a fantastic backdrop to birding.

From Highway 17, we turned east onto Island View Road, then right on Lochside Drive until Martindale Road. We parked along Martindale Road, careful to avoid blocking farmer fields, implement paths and respecting no-trespassing signs.

We walked up Martindale and went right on Welch, left on Dooley, and then right back up Lochside to Martindale again. This walk could take an hour but for all the stops to peer through our binoculars and enjoy all the birds. For those looking for less walking in the cold, parking, viewing and watching as the birds come in works too.

Things to Note: • Respect any no-trespassing signs and keep to the edges of fields • E-Bird is a great site to see what other birders have found in this hotspot: https://ebird.org/hotspot/L311852.

• Binoculars are great but even the viewfinder of a decent camera or phone can be enough to view and photograph the numerous birds.

YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME Exclusive offer to join the Club if you call and book a tour today.

AMAZING DOWNTOWN LOCATION | RESTAURANT, BAR & LOUNGE | EXECUTIVE FITNESS CENTRE | BILLIARDS ROOM COMPLIMENTARY COFFEE & TEA | OVER 400 AFFILIATE CLUBS | DOWNTOWN PARKING | LENDING LIBRARY Contact: Danielle Hind 250.384.1151 (Ext. 320) or sales@unionclub.com | 805 Gordon Street, Victoria | unionclub.com DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 39

P E N I N S U L A VO I C E S

by Stephanie Staples | photo by Kathryn Alvarez Photography

Denny Warner: Community Maker If you've been in this community any amount of time, you've likely run across Denny Warner, or at least seen her name in print; she's a mover, shaker and community maker!

I first met Denny when she was the Executive Director of the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, and I could tell right away that this lady knew how to get things done. A quick thinker, an opportunity seeker and a meaningful connector, Denny has been a champion for our community. She said during the work-fromhome Covid timeframe, in between her Chamber role and her present role as the ED of the Mary Winspear Centre, she missed her close connection to the community.

But she's back now! Denny's in her sweet spot again and planning to take our very own Mary Winspear Centre, and her own life, to new horizons.

Mary Winspear Centre is a gem in our community. As patrons and community members we just see what's stagefront; what do you want people to know about the goings on "backstage" of MWC, and how can we help it to thrive?

Most people in the community have had an opportunity to visit the Centre to get vaccinated; donate blood; attend a show, celebration of life, craft fair, yoga or a meeting; but they likely have no idea of the volume of activity that happens in this place on a daily basis. It isn't lip service to say that we are the heart of the community. We accommodate movie crews, fruit sellers and many others in our parking area; our activities also include management of Blue Heron Park. We facilitate cultural and social opportunities for the community that contribute to mental and physical well-being.

As an Executive Director you have to/get to make a multitude of decisions, take on a lot of responsibility and implement strategic tactics to benefit the long-term goals of an organization. How are the skills you need to be a great ED useful and/or challenging in your personal life?

I don't think I am the same person at work as I am at home. At work, my multitasking and quick decision making are important.

I have a fairly low-key home life that includes cooking, knitting, reading and spending time with my dogs and friends. My former book club welcomed me back and as a new empty nester, I appreciate that social outlet. I am a lifelong learner and I enjoy books that teach me new skills as well as ones that entertain.

As a parent, I have been entirely focused on my children for the past 20 years and it is both exciting and a little daunting to be considering me and my future. I am looking forward to a trip to Peru next fall but for now, I am thankful to have the opportunity to bring my skills and attention to the Mary Winspear Centre.

Your volunteer work in Restorative Justice (RJ) for the past eight years is sort of "under the radar" but is extremely important to you. Tell us about the training, work and impact your passion project has had on you, and on others? What can we do to understand and learn more about RJ? I have been a practitioner of Nonviolent Communication for many years and it was through that network that I was first introduced to Restorative Justice Victoria. I undertook the lengthy training and began as a Facilitator and then moved into the mentor role. I enjoy that role best because it allows me a longer connection with my clients: starting from their entry into the program through to when the terms of their agreement are complete. I think the most common misconception about RJ is that it is an easy way out for people convicted of crimes. I have worked with participants who were charged with serious and lessserious crimes and all would agree that the RJ process is challenging and requires far more introspection and focus on addressing the harm than would happen in a jail cell. For many reasons, including the reduced recidivism rate, the largely positive experiences of the responsible and affected parties and the financial benefits of diverting cases from the traditional court system, I would love to see more cases dealt with through restorative justice.

What are your go-to spots on the Peninsula to relax?

I enjoy the variety of shows in our own Charlie White Theatre but I also like to support the artists who don't (yet) have a large following.

You will find me listening to music at the smaller venues around town including Beacon Brewing, Small Gods Brewing and Mary's Bleue Moon Café. If I can't find someone to go with me, I am happy to go alone. I rarely leave home without a book in my purse and will contentedly spend time at a Peninsula restaurant or pub enjoying a meal I didn't cook, a beverage and the ambiance. The antidote for a busy work day for me is found in nature. Most days, my dogs and I travel the trails at Horth Hill. The other jewel of Deep Cove is the Market. It's the best place to meet people for coffee and is the perfect place to buy a gift or to grab something for dinner.

In order to do your vocation, your volunteer work and your life exceptionally well, I imagine you must be part professional listener and part professional "doer!" For those of us who could use some advice in those areas – help us out!

I think most people have a good idea about the places they feel stuck and often just want someone to listen. I am in the Executive Director position at the Mary Winspear Centre in large part because, over time, I developed heartfelt connections with people and I actively sought support from my network. Asking for assistance was difficult for me, but the joyful spirit in which it was offered was incredibly humbling and rewarding. Many of us get so used to doing everything on our own that asking for help feels like a personal failure, and yet, utilizing the strength and efficiency of our hive creates an even greater sense of belonging.

Happy Howlidays!

Family Owned & Operated PET MARKET PET MARKET

OPEN MON - SAT AND WE DELIVER!

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#5-7103 W Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay | rascalspetmarket.com DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 41

MAKING THE LEAP Earning investment income in your corporation Are you considering investing in your private corporation?

If you do not personally require the funds, you should consider retaining any after-tax surplus of cash in your corporation. In Canada, a corporation is taxed separately from an individual.

That means by leaving after-tax business income in your corporation, you will be deferring the personal tax that applies when you receive the funds, and there will be more money for investing, than if you withdraw funds from your corporation in the year earned.

Common types of investment income Canadian dividends – Canadian dividends received from Canadian corporations that are not connected are only subject to a refundable tax. No other tax applies to Canadian dividends received by a corporation.

Capital gains and losses – the non-taxable portion of capital gains can generally be distributed to the business owners as tax-free capital dividend.

For wealth management advice, please contact:

Interest income and foreign dividends – from investments such as GICs and bonds and foreign securities. Generally, this is the least favourable due to higher tax rates.

Jessica O’Brien Cameron, CIM, PFP Wealth Advisor, Portfolio Manager Wood Gundy 250 361-2272 jessica.obriencameron@cibc.com

Every type of investment is taxed differently, some more favourably than others. It’s important to speak with your financial and tax advisor for more information.

“CIBC Private Wealth” consists of services provided by CIBC and certain of its subsidiaries, through CIBC Private Banking; CIBC Private Investment Counsel, a division of CIBC Asset Management Inc. (“CAM”); CIBC Trust Corporation; and CIBC Wood Gundy, a division of CIBC World Markets Inc. (“WMI”). CIBC Private Banking provides solutions from CIBC Investor Services Inc. (“ISI”), CAM and credit products. CIBC World Markets Inc. and ISI are both Members of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada. CIBC Private Wealth services are available to qualified individuals. The CIBC logo and “CIBC Private Wealth” are trademarks of CIBC, used under license. This information, including any opinion, is based on various sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. CIBC and CIBC World Markets Inc., their affiliates, directors, officers and employees may buy, sell, or hold a position in securities of a company mentioned herein, its affiliates or subsidiaries, and may also perform financial advisory services, investment banking or other services for, or have lending or other credit relationships with the same. CIBC World Markets Inc. and its representatives will receive sales commissions and/or a spread between bid and ask prices if you purchase, sell or hold the securities referred to above. © CIBC World Markets Inc. 2022. Clients are advised to seek advice regarding their particular circumstances from their personal tax and legal advisors. If you are currently a CIBC Wood Gundy client, please contact your Investment Advisor.

info@donbellamy.com

jeffbryan@shaw.ca

islandrealestategirl@gmail.com

DENISE GALLUP

LINDSAY CASEY

DEBBIE GRAY

DAN JURICIC

BROOKE MILLER

RON PHILLIPS

KAREN DINNIE-SMYTH

CRAIG WALTERS

DON BELLAMY

dan@juricicteam.com

JEFF BRYAN

brookemiller@shaw.ca

ronsoffice@shaw.ca

lindsay@sellingseaside.ca

kdinnie-smyth@shaw.ca

sagegray@shaw.ca

craig@craigwalters.net

JENNA TURNBULL info@jennaturnbull.ca

A Holiday Table 3 Ways

by Ashley Stelck and Patricia Pearson, Owners of Hansell & Halkett Vintage Home Decor Photos by Janis Jean Photography

Setting the table for your holiday meal is a great way to really let your holiday theme shine. The table will be the place where there’s that pinnacle moment of the holiday season. Toasts will happen; gratitude will be shared; laughs will be had. The table is part of the whole show: it ties it all together – the tree, the mantle, even the wrapped gifts under the tree.

Never underestimate the impact that a beautifully adorned table has; it has the opportunity to set the stage for the whole meal. Do not be overwhelmed though – it does not need to be overthought, costly or intimidating. Simply use your favourite dishes and maybe that special occasion cutlery that has been tucked away and then finish it all off with a few personal touches that will bring it all together.

Here are three of our favourites that we find timeless yet unpredictable.

Linen & glassware from muffet & louisa; Dishware from Avenue B; All vintage items from Hansell & Halkett Vintage Home Decor

Traditional • • • •

Lots of sparkle, glitz and glam Vintage glass ornaments Silver candelabras Classic holiday colours: deep reds and greens • Silver vessels filled with forced bulbs and a runner of wintery greens • Fine white china and elegant crystal

Cozy & Moody • Rich and warm jewel-toned hues • Textured table linens and dark stoneware plates • Black candles and brass holders; a mix of mixed heights gives a great effect • Whimsical greenery loosely scattered down the centre with low vessels of dark florals • Simple stemware and mixed vintage silverware • Lighting is key: low with lots of candlelight

Farm House • Bright and light with pieces that hold the stories of generations past • Rustic linens, embroidered serviettes • Etched vintage glassware and your best silverware • Crisp white Ironstone serving dishes and antique pitchers filled with seasonal greens • English transferware; a mixed collection is really fun • Chunky pillar candles

Table setting ideas are endless and can be mixed up depending on mood and theme. Key elements can be used time and time again: your dishes, silverware, linens … when you want to mix it up it can be as simple as a fresh candle colour, some newfound pieces or something as effortless as a scattering of foraged pinecones and greenery. Happy holidays and happy tablescaping!

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 45

WITH

Peter Dolezal

TIMING OF PORTFOLIO CHANGES Peter Dolezal is a semi-retired Sidney resident. He offers INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL CONSULTING SERVICES to individuals, couples and companies.

To date, he has assisted more than 300 clients across Canada, principally in Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland.

No Financial Products to Sell Leads to Truly Independent Advice.

As investors, we tend to recognize when our investment portfolios require an extensive revamp. It may, for example, be during an equity market downturn when we realize that our portfolio results have been even worse than the year-to-date performance of Canadian, U.S. and World markets – posted daily in the Globe and Mail’s Business Section.

But when to make changes? Must we wait for a market recovery? Absolutely not.

Adjustments should be made when we realize they are needed, even during a Bear Market.

The key is to sell unproductive investments concurrently with the purchase of replacements.

In doing so, both transactions occur in the same market condition, thus avoiding the pitfalls of trying to “time” the market.

What we do want to avoid is the “panic” sale of equities during a down market, and converting holdings to cash while awaiting a market recovery before reinvesting the funds.

Such action results in a “paper” decline becoming an actual loss – making it very difficult to successfully time reinvestment.

Trying to time the market becomes a gamble that rarely turns out well.

On the other hand, selling holdings and buying replacements on the same day can be done in any market condition. This is not an effort to time the market; it is simply the implementation of a portfolio revision.

Long-term sub-par portfolio performance can usually be attributed to one or more of:

Author of

The Smart Canadian WealthBuilder

(Third Edition) Included in the curriculum of several Canadian Colleges.

. Excessive holding costs, such as with most mutual funds; . Inadequate income stream (yield);

. Inadequate product, sector, or global diversification; . Lack of currency-hedge protection, particularly on U.S. holdings; . Imprudent percentage allocation between Equity and Fixed Income.

These portfolio shortcomings can best be addressed through the use of ExchangeTraded Funds (ETFs).

Changes within RRSPs, RRIFs or TFSAs can be made at any time with no income tax consequences. However, when considering the sale of Non-Registered holdings, unrealized capital gains will be triggered by a sale, with 50% of the capital gain becoming taxable at the account holder’s marginal tax rate. It is important to note, however, that this is not an “extra” tax – it is simply the prepayment of taxes which will eventually be payable in any event. This tax caution will rarely outweigh the benefit of making necessary changes in an underperforming portfolio – since particularly, once the adjustments are made, embedded capital gains will have been reduced to zero, with future draws triggering minimal taxes, until new capital gains are once again created.

The longer an investor waits to make necessary portfolio changes, the greater the drag on performance. A deficient portfolio structure can significantly impact not only an investor’s peace of mind, but also long-term lifestyle.

When the need for improvement becomes obvious, portfolio changes should be made with great care – perhaps after solid independent financial and tax advice.

For personal financial consulting services, contact pdolezal@shaw.ca or visit www.dolezalconsultants.ca for Client Testimonials and more

GOING GREEN

by Tina Kelly

Using Your Inf luence Bookmark this page. December for many of us means getting caught up in planning and preparations; there is much hullabaloo leading up to and during the holiday season.

This article's topic may be ill-timed: there are other things occupying our headspace. I suggest giving it a read and revisit it early in the new year.

At home we have our routines. We are in control of our choices, choices to create less waste, use less energy, live sustainably … and then we head out of the house to only feel frustrated or helpless.

What if we could influence other places we spend time, like our workplace? Whether an employer is a big company or small business, there are likely large or small shifts that can be made.

Some initiatives take very little cost, investment or resources.

An employer may not be in the know or be overwhelmed with where to begin, but having someone offer to spearhead a project or two could be just the nudge needed. What makes sense for your workplace may vary or depend on its size and the type of industry it is.

Waste reduction is a good place to start. Many businesses have gone paperless for forms, billing and receipts. I must confess: I could print less. What I print is not confidential so I always use the other side of the paper if I haven't printed double-sided. You can also set your printer preferences to print both sides. Save energy by turning off lights and electronics when the business is closed.

Stock the staff room or kitchen with real cutlery; staff can then refuse plastic take-out versions if picking up lunch. Thrift stores are a great place to pick up inexpensive miscellaneous cutlery. Hosting a party or having an event? Consider renting real dishes and cutlery. Research caterers who provide food on returnable and reusable trays and dishes. Ensure your staff room has a place to collect kitchen scraps.

Are there hard to recycle items? Create a space where staff can gather oddball recycling items – batteries, foam, lightbulbs, etc. Offer to take them away and dispose of them properly by adding them to your personal recycling trip or, even better, maybe your employer can make this a work task.

We also spend time being a part of groups, clubs, or sports teams, either as a participant or a leader. Are there ways you can influence them to be more sustainable? A nod to the hosts of

the Seaside Magazine Book Club who bring ceramic mugs from home for participants to use, a small action that over time prevents a lot of waste.

Employers should be proud and encouraged to share the positive change they are making in their workplace – with other businesses, with customers or members. Influence works in all directions. 2023 is near.

Make it a year for influencing the various places we spend time outside the home.

in Sidney

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DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 47

OFF THE VINE

by Tilar J. Mazzeo

Holiday Drinks & Celebratory Gifts

Photo courtesy Leah-Anne MacLeod

Well, it's upon us: the winter holiday season is here. This month, here is my suggestion for two local businesses you may want to check out for some fun gift-giving ideas and a favourite seasonal beverage recipe – for young or old – to make holiday entertaining a bit easier.

Did you know that the Saanich Peninsula has a dedicated sparkling wine house? Sarah and Kaine Sparks have been building a loyal following at

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250-658-2725 | 5325 Cordova Bay Road at Mattick’s Farm 48 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

Invinity (www.invinity.ca) for a number of years, and there is a waitlist for their wine club and private tastings. For the holiday season, though, they have released to the public their 2019 Grande Cuvée line, with both a blanc de blanc and a rosé, perfect for a little holiday celebrating.

The release that caught my particular interest this month, though, was their micro-release of a 2018 Ocean Aged Grande Cuvée. What is an "ocean-aged" wine? The wine was inspired by historic champagne salvaged from shipwrecks that turned out, after decades on the ocean bottom, to be perfectly aged. Working with a local boat builder to construct some sea-worthy storage, they submerge a couple of cases of their blanc de blanc in the Salish Sea. Well, the scuba diver went down recently to retrieve the cage, and even the person who "has everything" isn't going to have a Salish Sea ocean-aged wine in their cellar. Quantities are extremely limited; free local delivery.

If cider is your seasonal preference, be sure to check out the Peninsula's newest cider house, too. Victoria Cider Company in North Saanich (www.victoriaciderco.ca) offers some rare traditional ciders, including a bottle-fermented keeved cider, and their tasting room is open on Saturdays. Their lavender cider, infused with local lavender, is a gorgeous colour, and I'm thinking a bottle of this sparkling cider, some lavender bath salts and a good book is my mother's holiday gift sorted.

If you're looking ahead to Dry January or wanting to offer some non-alcoholic seasonal options at your next gathering, Seacider Farm and Ciderhouse in Saanichton offers a "Temperance" series.

FIT YOUR LIFESTYLE • ELEVATE YOUR EVERYDAY

Photo courtesy Invinity

Finally, we've all heard by now about the Scandinavian concept of warm and cozy, and, now that the rains seem to have come in earnest, who couldn't use a bit of cozy? My family is Finnish, and I'm just going to say it: the Scandinavians know a thing or two about how to make the best of winter and take your cheer where you can, from "yule" celebrations on the winter solstice to saunas. So here's my holiday gift to you all: if you need a quick, festive, and surprisingly cost-effective (because, my goodness, the prices) holiday entertaining idea, guaranteed to make your house smell amazing, here's the family recipe for glögi: the Finnish take on mulled wine (or alcohol-free with juice substitute).

Spiced wine starts, no surprise, with spices. You need about two tablespoons per litre, but we always make up a larger batch. Packaged in pretty little bags, along with a loaf of cardamom bread, it's an easy holiday gift for friends and neighbours. Half your blend should be cinnamon sticks, whole cardamom pods and dried orange peel. From there, raid the cupboard. The other half can be allspice, nutmeg, star anise, mace, cloves or juniper. Choose two or three. Use whole – not ground – spices. If in doubt, stick to mace, allspice and cloves.

For the boozy version of glögi, soak ¼ cup of raisins in a cup of brandy overnight. The next day, take a bottle of inexpensive red wine (or substitute red grape juice and/or black currant juice) and simmer (do not boil) for 30 minutes along with two tablespoons of your spice mix, a two-inch knob of fresh, peeled ginger (chopped), the brandy (if using; reserve the raisins), and sugar or elderflower syrup to taste (start with a few tablespoons). Set aside to cool for an hour (or more), strain, and you're ready to serve now or later.

Reheat to serve, adding the raisins. Garnish with slivered almonds and a twist of orange peel. Light that fireplace, set out some candles, put on your coziest socks with your favourite people. Hyvää Joulua!

Celebrate the season with our newest Part Two collection full of sparkle and shine.

250.655.0774 • 2418 Beacon Avenue, Sidney @boutiquemoden • modenboutique.com

LINGERIE • LOUNGE • SLEEPWEAR • BASICS

Spoil the ladies on your list this Christmas with our assortment of lingerie, lounge, and sleepwear

250.655.2919 • 2416 Beacon Avenue, Sidney @modenessentials • modenboutique.com DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 49

50 50

SPH Heart for Healthcare RAFFLE Buy your tickets for our 50/50 SPH Heart for Healthcare Raffle and your contribution will support the health, wellness, and sustainability of the Saanich Peninsula and the Southern Gulf Island communities. One lucky ticket holder will take home half the total raised!

Your support will fund updates to facilities, innovative programs, and proactive solutions.

SNAP THIS QR CODE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE! OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE SPHF.CA

Ticket sales end: Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at 4:00 p.m.

Draw: Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.

HR

SP

Single Ticket for $10; 3-Ticket Pack for $25; 10-Ticket Pack for $50; 50-Ticket Pack for $200

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your community, your health 250-656-2948

U N I Q U E LY PENINSULA

Focus Hair Design

by Jamila Douhaibi

This is part of a rotating series of articles about some of the Saanich Peninsula's unique shops and services.

Focus Hair Design has a wonderful team of hair specialists that are not only talented, but also love what they do and where they work. Owner and stylist Clare Wedgwood has been working with the salon's senior stylist Mark, since 2003. Other members of the team include Shiori, Annabelle, Alyssa, Brigitte and receptionist Ella.

Each stylist brings their own unique flair to the salon. Clare, who worked with master stylist Christopher Wootton, specializes in cutting shorter hair. Shiori works with longer hair, layers and bobs, and Annabelle provides colouring and loves using her creativity to help customers express themselves. Both Shiori and Annabelle have been at Focus since 2019 and understand that a great cut and style can make people feel more confident.

The salon, which is located at Seaside Plaza at the end of Beacon Avenue, offers haircuts, styling, colouring and highlights, perms and other treatments. As a Green Circle Certified Salon, they offer many products that are organic, eco-friendly and cruelty-free. They have also received the Crystal Award for business excellence.

With the weather getting drier during the winter, and with the holidays approaching, the stylists have a few great recommendations.

Switching to a more hydrating shampoo and conditioner, as well as using a deep conditioner or hydrating hair mask every few washes, is helpful for the drier weather. For the holidays, the salon books up with updos and styles for parties, so they recommend making an appointment in advance.

As far as trends, darker colours are always more popular during the winter. The stylists say that winter is a good time for hair to have a break, as lightening and bleaching hair is generally more of a warmweather trend. Copper and red hair have been fashionable in the hair community this fall, along with wispy curtain bangs and layered cuts.

It's also a good time to book a trim, getting rid of dead ends and letting hair grow out for the winter. An appointment for a trim and a deep conditioning treatment is always a good way to start the season.

With all these great recommendations and a wide range of services offered, Focus Hair Design is a welcoming hair salon with a community and family atmosphere. The salon is open Tuesdays to Saturdays, and their website includes all of their treatment options, along with a list of the stylists and their hair treatment specialties.

You can also check out their site and their Instagram for a gallery of their work.

Fabulous hair in a friendly environment; that's Focus Hair Design!

Holiday gift sets are out!

Save up to 40% on your favourite Loma and Design.Me products!

Great Team • Monthly Promos • Certified Green Circle Salon Mondays - by appointment only • Tues - Sat 9-5 • Closed Sundays 102-2557 Beacon Ave, Sidney • 250.656.8122 • focushairdesignsidney.com

SERVICE WITH A SMILE Thank you for your support!

Yes we can help you with upholstery, blackout blinds & draperies for your bedroom or for your WHOLE strata es &

Rodco Draperi

Upholstery

250.656.4642 • rodcointeriors@shaw.ca

Here to Help You Grow & Explore • Safe, non-judgemental environment • Online Therapy so you can stay safe at home • Work with the client as a team to reach their goals www.coastalcompasscounselling.info | 778.676.5774

Sidney’s Eco-Fashion Store Women’s and Men’s Clothing Canadian Designs in Natural Fabrics Locally Made Gift Ideas Eco-Friendly Solutions, Personal Care, and Soap Refills Across from the Sidney Pier Hotel, Seaport Place 778.426.3088 • Online Store: ecotopianaturals.com

Peninsula Flavour:

FEATURE of the

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MONTH

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778.351.3663

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• Gift Baskets • Gift Certificates • English Christmas Goods

CHEF ON THE RUN

HEALTHY MEALS, FRESH FOR YOU!

9781B Second Street, Sidney

250.655.3141 | chefontherun.net

BEACON BREWING YOUR GUIDING LIGHT TO GREAT BEER! FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

9829 Third St, Sidney | beaconbrewing.ca

Beacon Brewing is a small batch, non-distribution brewery with tasting room located in beautiful downtown Sidney. We are committed to supporting the community we live in and call home using as many local ingredients and supporting as many local companies as possible. Our tasting room offers pints and flights of our beer brewed on site, as well as local cider, wine and soda offerings. We have local snack options, as well as pizza from Mariner’s Pizza. We also welcome patrons to bring in take out from any of the local restaurants Sidney has to offer! Come by and grab cans to go, or fill your growlers!

MAINSTAY BEER OPTIONS SEASONAL BEER OPTIONS IN DECEMBER West Coast IPA Caramel Apple Sour Dry Hopped Lager Oatmeal Stout We have a small batch tap that rotates weekly so there is always a new beer available!

A Christmas gift pack will be available through December!

Ladder Truck Lager | 4.6%

Capacitor Cold IPA | 6.2%

This beer is a tip of the hat to the firehall that stood on this property and to the men and women that worked there. This easy drinking pale lager is sure to quench the fieriest of thirsts, with its subtle hoppyness and light malt character.

A low bitterness hop forward IPA with the focus being on drinkability, including a flavour profile similar of white wine sangria and tropical fruit.

Power Surge Pale Ale | 5.4%

Disconnect Dark Mild | 4.1%

Smooth body and low bitterness mixed with a modern hop bill make our pale ale stand out as the perfect mix of pale ales reminiscent of both today and years past.

Dark fruit and toffee are the first impressions from our version of this English favourite. Low abv and a light body make this beer best consumed in multiples.

Sunday – Wednesday 11:30am to 9pm | Thursday 11:30 to 10pm | Friday & Saturday 11:30am to 11pm 250-544-6398 | www.beaconbrewing.ca

$10 – Burger & Fries or 1 lb Wings after 8pm (Sun-Thurs)

Mon - Sat: 11am-midnight; Sun: 10am-midnight

Join Us for Great Food & Beverages or Call us for Take-out

The Peninsula's Only Micro Coffee Roaster Open 7 Days a Week 8 am - 4:30 pm

Neighbourhood Pub & Liquor Store

7806 East Saanich Road, Saanichton

250.652.1575

@prairieinnpub

@theprairieinn

2250 Beacon Avenue, Sidney

250.656.5042 thecharlesdickenspub.com

in Saanichton at the corner of Mt. Newton & Wallace

www.freshcup.ca

Professional Real Estate & Property Management Services

Dan Van der Vlugt

Stephanie Peat

John Bruce

Tony Clemente

2405 Bevan Avenue, Sidney BC www.dfh.ca

Frank Berke

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250.656.0131

Luxury Consignment Boutique offering Full Wardrobe Services

778.351.3018 | 2507 C Beacon Ave. Sidney www.houseoflilykoi.com

ou!

tY o G e We’v

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SCREEN SCENE

by Tabatha Golat

The OA: Genre-Defying A variety of great entertainment has been released

a missing teenage girl who is connected to a puzzle app.

The pacing and unique storyline of Part I is elevated in Part II, leaving a cliffhanger ending that, unfortunately, is never resolved. In a surprising move, Netflix axed the series after two seasons despite favourable criticism and public outcry. Even with an ending that begs to be resolved, the show is worth the watch. The exploration of other realms and the interconnectedness of the universe is eccentric, interesting and compelling.

My favourite part of the series is the directing by co-creator Zal Batmanglij. Batmanglij has a talent for composition and designs beautiful shots in every scene. I find the best directors have a distinctly recognizable look and feel to their work, a skill Batmanglij has shown in his ability to beautifully showcase this complex story. Check out my list below for recommendations from other directors known for their unique signature styles.

1) The Grand Budapest Hotel, directed by Wes Anderson, Disney Plus 2) Lost In Translation, directed by Sofia Coppola, Crave 3) The Village, directed by M. Night Shyamalan, Prime 4) Little Women, directed by Greta Gerwig, Netflix

over the past year – from documentaries to big budget fantasy shows and true crime – so it almost seems silly to choose a recommendation from 2016. That being said, this month's series of choice, The OA, is worth the snub. Although labeled as a mystery-drama, the series from creator and star Brit Marling is genre defying and difficult to pin down given its vast array of fantasy, supernatural and science-fiction elements.

The two-season Netflix show is broken into Part I and Part II. Part I introduces Prairie Johnson (Brit Marling), a woman who returns after a mysterious seven-year disappearance. More mysterious than her reappearance is the fact that the previously blind Prairie has somehow regained her vision and now refers to herself as The OA ("The Original Angel"). The OA refuses to disclose to authorities where she's been, or how her vision was restored, instead focusing on sharing her life story with a group of five people (four teenagers and a local high school teacher) whom she hopes will assist her in finding the other missing people she was with. Part II begins with The OA waking up in a parallel universe where she's known as Nina, a woman tasked with assisting a detective in finding

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DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 57

LIVING OFF THE LAND

by Jo Barnes | photos by Kathryn Alvarez Photography

SERVING UP FARM FRESH: Dan’s Farm & Country Market

It's the kind of farm to table family meal that we all dream of: steaming Brussels sprouts that you cut from the stalks yourself, fresh vegetables that were grown right here on the Peninsula, and a dessert pie baked with berries that you picked yourself.

Since 2006, Dan's Farm & Country Market in Saanichton, owned

by Dan and Charo Ponchet, has been providing local residents with this Peninsula-grown fresh food experience that so many seek.

"We offer a diversity of quality produce," shares Dan. "It is farm to table here. People can see where food comes from and experience how it is grown."

"We sell Brussels sprouts on the stalk. It gives people an idea of what they look like," adds Simon Oliver Fowler (pictured at top right), Dan's son-in-law and the market manager. "This invites a new atmosphere to the dinner table."

The farm offers opportunities for people to interact with crops and livestock in a manner that is impossible in a modern grocery store. There's an animal petting area for the kids and seasonal U-Pick service. Visitors can harvest their own blueberries and strawberries in the summer, and, in the fall, enjoy picking the perfect pumpkin for Halloween and pie making.

"U-Pick gives people another farming experience," says Simon.

"They get their hands dirty and can interact with the plants."

58 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

The daily approach at the farm is to work with nature and grow flavourful, high quality produce.

"We avoid sprays and pesticides. We use horse and chicken manure to fertilize the fields," comments Simon. "We rotate crops and do cover cropping. The soil looks beautiful and yields amazing vegetables."

Dan is able to offer a diverse range of produce to the community as he farms over 60 acres of land spread out over a number of locations. He began farming at the current Bear Hill Road site in 2006. Over time, he has added to his farm with additional lands along Oldfield Road. As a result, his market offers all the ingredients one needs to make festive roasted Brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, baked squash, and memorable sweet desserts too. Every item is local, grown within a kilometre of the farm and fresh picked for optimum flavour and texture.

This bounty of produce is also available through all the seasons as the market is open all year round.

"We love what we do. We grow as much as we can in our own neighborhood," remarks Dan. "We're open every day except for a couple of weeks over Christmas."

Dan is well known in the farming community and his love of farming began at an early age. His father, Jacques, purchased land along Oldfield Road in 1956 and started Le Coteau Farms where he

grew plants and a wide variety of fruit trees. Here Dan had his first taste of what would become a lifelong venture.

"I helped out and worked on the farm. I was good at pruning, especially apple and pear trees," says Dan. "I think I was destined for farming."

That early experience translated into years of dedicated farming and a deep-seated interest in local food security and local farming.

So it was no surprise that he took on the position of President of the Southern Vancouver Island Direct Farm Marketing Association, a non-profit organization of producers and growers on Southern Vancouver Island who sell their products directly to consumers.

"Dan is the go-to guy when it comes to farming," remarks Simon.

"People respect him, and they trust him to do a good job."

Operating a farm, while running a busy market, requires time, effort and many helping hands from his family. Simon began working at the farm in 2015 after a chance meeting at a local farm market with his now fiancée, Sara, who is Dan's daughter. Since then, the experiences he has gained, especially through the pandemic, have prepared him for all the challenges of farming life.

"Dan and Charo were not able to return to the country during the Covid lockdown. I had to gather family and friends to help get the farm ready for planting," shares Simon. "It was quite a baptism by fire!"

It was a case of 13-hour days, seven days a week, but it was a successful effort and the farm was readied for another season. For Simon, the success of managing the farm in Dan's absence was a positive experience.

"It was a confidence booster and a proud moment for me," says Simon. "Dan was proud too."

It's a farm where it's all about family working together, a focus on fresh, and a love of local community. At Dan's Farm you can learn how food is grown, be a part of sustainable farming, and, of course during this festive season, savour the flavours of a local harvest at your own table.

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 59

Your

Love

LOCAL …

You are investing in your community by supporting its unique businesses. Appreciate what makes our neighbourhoods different. Our one-of-a-kind shops and services are an inherent part of the distinctive character of our Saanich Peninsula neighbourhoods; that is what brought us here and will keep us here. Stay local and stay connected to the merchants in your community. By supporting them today, you are investing in a unique and sustainable future for the Saanich Peninsula community.

When we don't sleep well, it is often easy to assume that it can't be a problem with the mattress because it's relatively new and was expensive.

muffet & louisa Welcome to December! Summer is not long past, but it's time to start thinking about keeping warm in the winter and celebrating the holidays!

All the things you have come to expect from us are in full stock: sheepskin slippers, flannel sheets, alpaca throws and wonderful wool blankets from New Zealand in both king and queen sizes.

Of course, we have our favourites to help you celebrate your winter holidays: the much-loved Patience Brewster "Krinkles" collection. Sparkly reindeer with their sleighs and elves, Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Wise Men, dashing sleighs of jolly chefs, happy carolers and musical snow globes – all designed and so carefully made to enchant you.

This is the time of year that we wish we had more room, but we will do our best to take care of you in our usual way. As always, we offer free gift wrapping and custom gift baskets – tell us what you want and we will make it look beautiful. If the gift is not quite right, we have our easy return or exchange policy in place after Christmas.

We send our warmest wishes to you all for a happy and peaceful holiday season, and thank you so very much for your wonderful support.

Santa’s Favourite Slippers!

Don't make that mistake. Come and see us and Let Us Help You Sleep Better!

Soft, comfy sheepskin slippers, made in Canada … a perfect gift for everyone in the family. Stop in soon for the best selection or shop at home at www.muffetandlouisa.com.

778.351.2113 | sidneymattress.com 1A - 2353 Bevan Ave, Sidney

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We are open seven days a week and deliver from Sidney to Sooke and some of the Gulf Islands

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Going That Extra Mile for You …

Since 2018, our talented team has been working hard every day to provide the best services for our clients.

We offer residential and small business cleaning throughout the Saanich Peninsula, so get in touch today to receive an initial quote.

Contact: info@lmlcleaning.ca www.lmlcleaning.ca

Where is ‘The Shop’?

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Farmhouse Pottery is authentically handmade and offers timeless elegance and everlasting durability.

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Sidney Mattress & More Five years ago, Sidney Mattress & More was established as a boutique style Mattress and Bed store.

Our goal is to provide a good selection of excellent beds and mattresses for all your needs in a pleasant environment without pressure, sales gimmicks, ridiculous markups and nonsense. We want the experience to leave you comfortable and smiling. Our pricing is fair and includes free delivery in the area.

We also remove and dispose of your old items.

We feature Restwell's Back Supporter series.

These are made in Surrey B.C., using top quality foams certified not to off-gas and springs that are made by Restwell itself of tempered steel. These beds are built to provide incredible support and comfort, and are built to last with 20 years of warranty at affordable prices. Latex is a popular material in mattresses these days and we have a selection using latex as well as memory foam.

Many of us are moving to smaller spaces. Sidney Mattress & More handles Small Space Solutions including Trundle Beds, Chest Beds and Murphy Beds with novel concepts. If you'd like to dress up your space, we handle upholstered and wood bed frames and headboards. Need pillows sheets or mattress protectors? We have those too! Please come and see us and

Let Us Help You Sleep Better!

N E W & N OT E WO R T H Y

by Annilee Armstrong

News, changes, updates, launches? Email noteworthyseaside@gmail.com.

Happy Retirement Bayshore Home Health After 12 years as Area Director for Vancouver Island, Stasia Hartley is retiring.

She will be finishing up some special projects with Bayshore Home Health before her retirement in January. During her tenure, Bayshore (which offers home care services for the elderly) expanded from one office in Victoria to multiple offices across southern Vancouver Island, opening the Sidney office and IV clinic in 2015. Stasia plans to spend her time focusing on family, travelling with her husband Brett and continuing to volunteer in the community she grew up in.

Dig This After 10 years of lovingly owning Dig This – Sidney, Margot Wilson is retiring. Dig This

moved to the current location at 9813 Third Street in 2013. Tracy Hilton joined the team in the first year and has been the backbone of the company ever since. They have enjoyed meeting all their fabulous customers over the years and the Sidney business community has been amazing to be a part of.

Margot and Tracy aren't sure exactly what retirement will look like or how the next chapters will unfold, but they are both looking forward to finding out.

The store will remain open through the holiday season and will wrap up for good by end of January. https://tinyurl.com/y6pnnv72.

and Charlotte Edwardson are thrilled to join the team at the Deep Cove Market, located at 10940 West Saanich Road, as they step into ownership of this well-known and beloved community store. The journey that led to this changing of ownership started with a simple love and appreciation for the market and honour and gratitude for the 18 years that Rosemary Scott has dedicated to developing and nurturing this community. With gratitude and excitement, this new team is looking forward to continuing with Rosemary's vision and adding their fresh passion and energy to it. www.deepcovemarket.com.

Warm Welcome

Chelsey Columbus, creator of scrumptious gourmet scones and owner of beloved community staple Sidney Scones, will be opening a new storefront (date TBA) located

Deep Cove Market Dan and Karalyn Schuetze and Mike

Sidney Scones

The Holidays are Here!

What better reason to have your makeup done professionally – just in time for holiday parties!

Not sure how to do your makeup?

Makeup lessons are also available to leave you feeling confident and up to date.

Appointments available with Licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist Rachel Penny.

Book online or call 250.882.1530 to make an appointment.

FALL FOR BLUNDSTONE:

Experience them at WaterlilyShoes.com or visit our boutique in Sidney.

Free shipping on all Blundstone.

www.vagaro.com/misspennyesthetics 62 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

at 9762 Third Street! Chelsey is looking forward to this exciting new venture and is thankful for the local support. For up-to-date information on hours and opening dates, visit www.facebook.com/sidneyscones.

Floyd's Diner A warm welcome to the neighbourhood to Floyd's Diner, located at 6719 West Saanich Road (in the old Sassy's location), which opened November 1. In addition to their satisfying portions, the staff at Floyd's strives to maintain a fun and friendly, family-oriented atmosphere for all to enjoy. Stop in and enjoy the Mahoney – the dish that made them famous! www.floydsdiner.ca.

The Great Outdoors

Sidney Spit Annual Closure The Gulf Islands National Park Reserve lands on Sidney Spit are closed to the public this winter to allow for deer hunting by local First Nations people. This annual closure lasts from November 1, 2022 to February 28, 2023. Since 2005, Parks Canada has closed public access to Sidney Spit for traditional hunting. This public closure extends to all of the national park reserve land during this period. Parks Canada has created a hunting schedule to increase safety, avoid conflict with volunteer events and reduce the occurrence of multiple parties hunting simultaneously. For more information call 250-507-6653.

Congratulations Beer Awards 2022

Pollinator Partnership Canada W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council is pleased to announce the Victoria Airport Authority (VAA), in partnership with Pollinator Partnership Canada, has built a native species plant pollinator garden at YYJ. The garden is located along Willingdon Road next to the roadside digital billboard, in W̱SÁNEĆ territory. The area was originally a thriving Garry oak meadow that supported a rich and diverse ecosystem, featuring grasslands, woodlands and abundant camas wildflower fields in the spring. This land holds high significance to the W̱SÁNEĆ People's culture and history. The new garden will increase the biodiversity of the area, bring awareness to the importance of native plant species, and honour the original ecosystem.

Congratulations to both Small Gods Brewing and Beacon Brewing for their respective wins at this years Beer Awards!

Beacon Brewing took Second Place in the Specialty Beer category with "Capacitor." Small Gods Brewing took Second Place in the Fruit Beer category with "A Many Splendored Things – Saison W/ Tangerines." www.beaconbrewing.ca; www.smallgods.ca.

Under Paris Skies The Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation has announced that the 2022 Gala – Under Paris Skies – raised its biggest total ever of over $500,000. This year the Foundation is raising funds in three areas to better healthcare for everyone on the Peninsula through improved facilities, technological upgrades and support for its wonderful staff.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Wishing you a warm and wonderful Holiday Season spent with those you love.

Tight on space? Let your friends and family stay with us during the Holidays.

SIDNEY PIER HOTEL & SPA

9805 SEAPORT PLACE, SIDNEY BC

WWW.SIDNEYPIER.COM

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 63

NIȽ TU,O

– from the very beginning

by Laurel Anne Stark photos courtesy N I Ƚ T U,O Child & Family Services

Culture Camps Help Kids Stay Connected to a Coast Salish Worldview NIȽ TU,O ensures Coast Salish children and youth

stay connected to their community, culture and language by hosting ongoing Culture Camps.

Led by NIȽ TU,O staff and grounded in the Coast Salish worldview, these camps are held during the spring and summer months and on pro-D days throughout the year.

The days are structured to include a variety of activities that keep kids engaged, happy and excited. In the summer months, the Culture Camps also go on overnight camping trips to experience the land their ancestors come from.

Camp this year included a visit to Luke Marston's carving shop to see the carving of NIL TU,O's traditional canoe (bottom left), exploring local parks, as well as going to the movies, bowling, Malahat SkyWalk and pottery painting. Cultural education activities included making medicine pouches, bannock, beading and clamshell rattles.

Centering the camps on cultural activities such as carving, harvesting medicine and cultural work fosters a connection with self and with others. The children were most deeply engaged in activities that were closely tied to culture.

Vanessa, (shown top left) one of the camp leaders, mentions a memorable moment that exemplifies the enrichment that Culture Camps offer. Of the medicine pouch activity, Vanessa says: "The medicine pouch activity was really nice because the activity took place in the NIȽ TU,O cultural building where Indigenous music was featured in the background and you could probably hear a pin drop because the kids were just so concentrated on what they were doing."

She considers it a special moment, sharing: "To see them all quiet and concentrating so hard really showed how interested and excited the children were."

Ongoing education about cultural protocols, land and place names and connection to plant and animal relatives reinforces cultural teachings from relatives and reminds children they belong to a culture that has lived in this area since time immemorial. As such, the Culture Camps are major contributors to the happiness and health of Coast Salish children in care and children living in community.

Specifically being around other Coast Salish youth can be medicine for kids in care. Lydia says: "For them to be able to be at that camp, learning about their cultural identity and connecting with other kids that are experiencing the same things I think makes a huge difference."

Both Lydia and Vanessa light up when they share about what the Culture Camps does for children. There was a weaving workshop in November, and plans for cultural camps on Pro-D days and over Spring Break.

Culture camps are one of the many ways NIȽ TU,O is proud to support Coast Salish youth as they explore their identity and learn more about nature, culture and other important parts of life.

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www.sweetdreamsboutique.com DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 65

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WINTER WONDERLAND Friday, Dec 16th to Tuesday, Dec 27th

Each year, our arena is transformed to become a beautiful winter scene, lights, trees, penguins and polar bears, and of course a Christmas tree and Santa Claus!

FAMILY CARNIVAL! SATURDAY, DEC 17 11 AM to 3 PM Join us for a special family carnival, complete with holiday tunes, hot chocolate, children’s games and activities, and a special visit from Santa!

Throughout this winter season, ignite your holiday spirit and drop-by for one of our daily public skates, or book the ice for a private family or corporate function.

Book your private skate for only $228!

250 655 2181

66 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

Please note: Skate aids permitted upon request

PR E S E N T E D

BY

THANK YOU!

2022

With your help at this year’s Gala we’ve raised a RECORD total of over

500,000!

GALA EVENING SPONSORS GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

VENUE SPONSOR

TABLE SPONSORS

WINE SPONSOR

CHOCOLATE SPONSOR

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SUPPORTING SPONSORS

ANNUAL SPONSORS

LIVE AUCTION DONORS Ron & Judy Tidman Robert Bateman

David Bremner, d.g.bremner & co.

Stones Jewellery

Peggy Yelland, Escape Solutions Tim Hackett

Jim Sinclair “Cowboy Jim” Galaxy RV

SILENT AUCTION DONORS Arbutus Ridge Golf Club Atticus Clothing Barbaraʼs Boutique Bayshore Home Health Bin 4 Burger Lounge Buddies Toy Store Chemainus Theatre Festival Communicanine training Cottons & Blues Country Grocer Craigdarroch Castle Dare to Dream Team Inc.

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (Viking Air) Deep Cove Market Designs by Doreen Dr. David Bird Escape Solutions Fickle Fig Four Paws Pet & Grocery Boutique Fox Moto Rent Graham Scholes Hands On Clay Collective

Helen Windsor House of Lily Koi Hughesman Morris Liversedge, Chartered Professional Accountants Il Terrazzo Karen Booth L.A. Limousines Leslie Hunter Macaloney's Caledonian Distillery & Brewery Mary-Ellen Somerville Matshop Art Supplies

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T H E N AT U R A L P AT H

by Dr. Marita Schauch, ND Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre

Winter Wellness:

Your Guide to Thriving This Season Chill is in the air, Christmas is around the corner, and the days

Don't Forget to Stay Hydrated

are short. Like really short. Winter is coming whether we like it or not.

And in this season that can be hard to navigate in our best health, be it because of the desire to hibernate, too many tempting treats, or the lack of sunlight, prioritizing our wellness is important.

That is why I've put together some of my favourite winter wellness tips to stay healthy, and thrive this season.

Just because you're not hot and sweaty doesn't mean you can skimp on the hydration. Water is essential for all of our body's processes, so remember to drink up. Herbal teas are a great way to stay hydrated and warm!

Take Advantage of the Light Sunlight is in short supply this time of year, and that can make many of us feel the effects of seasonal depression.

Make an effort to steal outside for at least 15 to 20 minutes every day. Lunch breaks are an awesome time to squeeze this in if it's dark by the time you finish work.

Supplements to Consider There are some key supplements that can make your journey through the winter months a bit easier.

• Vitamin D – This is a big one as many Canadians become deficient at this time of year.

• Vitamin C – Works alongside Vitamin D to support a healthy immune system.

• B Vitamins – Important for supporting the stress response and to help boost energy.

• Zinc – Helps fight infection in cold and flu season.

Find Your Spark One of my favourite winter survival tips is to find your "spark."

Find something that captivates you, that brings you joy, and can carry you through to spring. Maybe it's a project, learning a new skill, a book series, trying out recipes or exploring our beautiful Island.

Choose something you've always wanted to do and make the time and space to focus on it throughout the season.

Stay warm, stay healthy, and most of all stay happy.

BIG NEWS!

I am joining Deborah Reid’s team at Raymond James!

Keep Moving It's easy to give in to the desire to hibernate in the winter and get lax on physical activity, but keeping up a daily movement practice goes a long way in maintaining good physical and mental health.

Make at least 30 to 60 minutes of movement a part of your daily routine. It can be as simple as a walk or a yoga flow, just as long as you're moving.

Go Back to Your Roots Root vegetables pack a powerful punch for winter nutrition when we need a little bit of extra energy. Carrots, yams, sweet potatoes, turnips and more offer that hearty stick-to-your-ribs type of eating to help us feel nourished in the cold months.

Focus on eating hearty, filling and nutrient packed meals to fuel your winter adventures. This is also a fun time to connect with your family's heritage traditions and experiment with recipes from your own lineage or around the world!

Deborah Reid

Ashley Ruffle

#216-9764 Fifth St. Sidney BC 250-657-0700 | ashley.ruffle@raymondjames.ca

www.raymondjames.ca

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 69

ARTS SCENE

by Jo Barnes photos by Kathryn Alvarez Photography

Peter & Kathy Demchuk:

Photo courtesy Kathy Demchuk

CRAFTING A NEW PATH

The farewell parties are over. You've said "goodbye" to the world of nine-to-five work. And suddenly you and your spouse have more time together. How do you navigate retirement as a couple?

When former school teachers, Peter and Kathy Demchuk, decided to explore their artistic talents in their retirement, they quickly discovered it takes mutual encouragement, support and sometimes tolerance of each other's mess.

"We were both very busy teachers before and we needed to do something in retirement. Now we have activities we can do together," shares Kathy, adding with a smile: "Pete creates sawdust and I don't mind. And, he doesn't mind a lot of thread around the house."

A former biology teacher, Peter has always had an interest in animals and nature. When he retired in 2002, he decided to replicate a folk art giraffe that Kathy had admired when she spotted it in a store one day.

"I thought, you know, I'll save my pennies and get that giraffe one day," shares Kathy. "Peter started carving. He made the giraffe for me and put it on our doorstep."

That initial giraffe prompted orders from other people for the same, and a new hobby was launched. Since then Peter has further refined his skills and created other carved pieces including bowls, charcuterie boards and folk art birds. He uses reclaimed wood from local sources and spends anywhere from four hours on simpler bowls to up to 30 hours creating larger giraffe pieces.

As for Kathy, who has always had an interest in art and taught it at school, retirement in 2008 brought an opportunity to delve into it further.

"I've always loved doing art," says Kathy. "I have a master's degree in Art Education and taught art at Bayside Middle School."

As well as creating elaborate quilts and wall hangings and painting fabric, Kathy makes items from seaglass. The process of painting fabric and then completing each quilt can take many days to complete.

Themes are usually whimsical and related to nature.

"I like pieces that are fun to look at or be around like a seagull riding a bicycle or building a fort," she notes, with a grin. "Also, there's usually an environmental feel to it."

Peter and Kathy each have their own particular challenges. While Peter is always conscious of the safety hazards that come with using power tools, Kathy has learned that being seated and using a heavier sewing machine for quilting is demanding on her back. Creating art though brings rewards that are well worth the efforts.

"It's a creative outlet," comments Peter. "Wood is beautiful. The more I use it, the more I appreciate it."

Kathy shares: "My mom taught me to sew when I was a kid. My sewing room is a nice place to be. I really enjoy it all. It gives me focus."

Most artists work alone, but as a couple, Peter and Kathy support and inspire each other along the way.

"I'm a big encourager for Pete," says Kathy. "He's quite artistic. He used to do these amazing drawings for his lessons at school when he taught at Claremont Secondary."

"I try to support Kathy," adds Peter. "She had the idea to make seaglass angels, but she needed to have them drilled. I bought some little drills and figured out how to do it for her."

Longtime members of Saanich Peninsula Arts & Crafts Society (SPAC), the couple has participated numerous times in the Sooke and Sidney Fine Arts Shows, and displayed their work at the local ArtSea Gallery for over 10 years.

Community art events provide a wonderful opportunity to showcase their art pieces, to connect with others, and to work on a project together.

"The art shows are magical," shares Kathy. "We meet new people and make new friends."

"It's great for our relationship," adds Peter. "It's a good chance to do things together. People have bought our work as gifts for others.

Our pieces have travelled all over the world."

While it's a shift for the former teachers from the daily demands of creating and teaching lessons, these new activities have brought a chance for new life experiences.

"It's not a job, but a hobby that pays for itself!" laughs Peter.

"Different things come your way. It opens up new opportunities.

We never thought we'd be involved in art shows," comments Kathy.

Whether alone in the garage or in a sewing room or together at a community event, this couple know there's time now to continue to learn, grow, and be challenged. As for a bit of sawdust and a few more threads here and there, that just means there are artists in residence.

Details about their work and items for sale can be found on the Demchuks' website: www.demchuk.ca.

IT’S ALWAYS THE RIGHT TIME TO APPLY MULCH TO YOUR

Flower & Garden Beds

Tree & Landscape Ltd.

GARDEN CITY MULCH

Provides Vital Nutrients | Reduces the Need to Weed Significantly Decreases the Amount of Water Required 250.385.4858 | info@victoriagardencity.ca | victoriagardencity.ca

WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS!

WE’VE MOVED!

My name is Dr. Tracy Mitchell and I am thrilled to be joining the team at Sidney Harbour Dental.

Come See Us at Our New Location!

This marks the 20th year that I have been practising general dentistry. I’ve worked in private practice, in hospital and in remote First Nations communities. I enjoy all aspects of general dentistry, with a special interest in oral surgery and pediatrics, but most of all I enjoy meeting people of all ages. I belong to the College of Dental Surgeons of BC, the BC Dental Association and the Canadian Dental Association.

Dr. Tracy Mitchell, member of:

I grew up in a small farming community in Manitoba, and came to Vancouver Island in 1992 to study at UVic. With a degree in Biochemistry, I then went on to study dentistry at UBC. I made my way back to the Island in 2009. I’ve been a proud North Saanich resident since 2012, where I live with my husband, our three children and a rescue pup, Coco.

College of Dental Surgeons of BC BC Dental Association Canadian Dental Association

I look forward to meeting all the patients of Sidney Harbour Dental and welcoming new ones!

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS:

Visit Us at Our New Location for a Tour!

250-656-1841 | 9833 Third St, Sidney | www.sidneydental.ca DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 71

Family & Implant Dentistry

I N G O O D H E A LT H

by Paula Kully

Coast Dental Care and ORCCA Now Offering Sedation #104 - 9845 Resthaven Dr, Sidney 250.656.1199 | coastdentalcare.ca

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Dr. Mitra Hashemi is the owner of Coast Dental Care in Sidney. She is also one of the co-founders of the non-profit organization, ORCCA (Oral Care for Children and Adolescents) that provides free dental service to children of low-income families.

Dr. Hashemi wants to profile some of the dentists who work with her at ORCCA. Please tell us a bit about yourself.

Negaar Nadji (NN): I grew up in Yellowknife, NT where there is a very diverse population base. I completed my BSc at UVic, followed by a Master's in Public Health at Memorial University in Newfoundland and finally, dentistry at McGill in 2016. Following dental school, I moved back to Yellowknife to work for my childhood dentist, Dr. Hassan Adam.

Dr. Steven Cload (SC): I grew up in Torquay, a small seaside town in England. I graduated from the dental program at the University of Manchester in 1989. In 1991 my Canadian wife, Juliet, and I immigrated to Canada to provide dental care to the wonderful Inuit people of the Kitikmeot Region of the N.W.T. In 1996 we moved to Calgary where I opened my own practice. After 22 years we decided to move to the Saanich Peninsula. I've almost gone full circle living at the seaside again and dodging seagulls.

Anna Wang (AW): Aside from working in my own dental practice in Duncan, I have worked overseas for various charities including Poco and Kindness in Action on a volunteer basis.

When did you get involved with ORCCA? NN: I recently moved to Victoria in August 2021 and immediately contacted Dr. Hashemi. I love the days that I go to ORCCA; they are my highlight!

SC: I started at ORCCA just under two years ago.

AW: I have been volunteering with ORCCA since it first began, in 2015.

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What inspired you to get involved with ORCCA? NN: My childhood dentist, Dr. Hassan Adam. He has helped so many people and is an example of the type of dentist I strive to be.

My main goal has always been to serve humanity and to provide service through my skill set.

SC: Dr. Hashemi asked if I would help at ORRCA. After my

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first day, I loved working with the young children and the grateful parents. Dentistry can be expensive for families and if I can help lift a burden off the shoulders of these families, as many of them start a new life in Canada, why wouldn't I? AW: ORCCA was just starting when I retired and was hoping to work for a local non-profit clinic. Dentistry is such an expensive service and many families cannot afford even basic treatment, so our clinic is so needed.

"Dentistry can be expensive for families and if I can help lift a burden off their shoulders, why wouldn't I?"

Please share an interesting or inspiring experience with ORCCA. NN: On my first day at ORCCA, I met a young family that were recent refugees. I provided the children with check-ups and treatment plans for future care. The children were incredibly grateful. When I met with their parents, they told me how much ORCCA has been a source of help and hope in their life. As a result, one of their children wants to be a dentist so they too can serve others. It would be amazing to see that little girl come back as a dentist and work for ORCCA one day!

SC: Many of the young children do not speak English as their first language and often bring an older sibling to their appointment.

One older brother told me he was planning to become a heart surgeon. It was inspiring to hear a young man who had come here as a refugee, have such a sky-reaching goal. I truly believe he will attain his goal.

AW: I saw a brave five-year-old girl, who had just arrived in Canada after staying in refugee camps in Turkey for a couple of years. She hadn't been eating because of her sore teeth, and they had no access to a dentist at the camp. She was clearly petrified but, when I told her in my very poor Arabic that we were going to help her, she stopped crying and climbed onto our chair. Afterwards, still frozen, she said one of the first words of English she knew: "tank you." We are richly rewarded for what we do at ORCCA.

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9733 4TH ST, SIDNEY DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 73

Photo by Kathryn Alvarez Photography

Fruit Cake Fundraiser: Next Level Bulk Baking

I can't turn down a good tale. If it involves

family secrets passed down through the generations, effort on a vast scale, overcoming obstacles and turning challenges into opportunities, well it's hard for me to resist. Something else I find hard to resist? Fruit cake. Imagine then how intrigued I was to learn of an epic fruit cake production line happening right here on the Peninsula, year after year! The family recipe comes from Ann Moskow's grandmother, and it is Ann that I arrive to meet bright and early one Saturday morning at Camosun College's Commercial Kitchen.

Ann is co-chair of the Cakes from Rotary Committee, part of the Rotary Club of Victoria – Harbourside. In the kitchen with her were 45 volunteers, mainly Rotarians from various local Clubs (including our Sidney-by-the-Sea Club), a few family members and visiting friends, and me! I'd brought my apron and a willing attitude with the hope that I could get a bit hands-on while I learned the story of the Cakes from Rotary fundraiser.

Ann's family fruitcake was a real hit at an afternoon tea many years ago, causing her to wonder if there would be a fundraising opportunity if she made more and sold them. That first year, 2005, 119 cakes were baked and took about a month to sell. The next year they doubled the quantity, and they sold out in three weeks. A legend had been created! Fast forward to this year and 800 fruit cakes are ready for sale.

None of this would be possible without the support of Chef David Lang, Chair of Camosun College's Culinary Arts Program. Ann explains: "he's the 4th Chair of that 74 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

Photo courtesy Rotary Club of Victoria – Harbourside

by Deborah Rogers

program with whom we've partnered. All have helped us successfully scale up a twocake family recipe to what we do now, while ensuring that the cakes remain 'homemade' in a professional setting." The weighing, measuring, decorating and baking of 800 fruit cakes takes an even bigger volunteer crew than the one assembled when I met with Ann. Those cakes were actually baked in September and are maturing, ready for Christmas. What I had my hands on, and eventually covered in, is chocolate!

On sale alongside the traditional fruit cakes are boxes of homemade truffles, and bags of chocolate bark. The truffles were a happy accident, created after one of the ovens was set too high and a batch of cakes was scorched. Ann couldn't bear to waste the ingredients, and with the edges cut off, she set about devising a way to use the cake middle. Mixed with some extra brandy, it made for a delicious centre to a chocolatecoated truffle, and so what was a mistake became an additional income stream.

This year I had a (small, chocolate covered) hand in the making of 3,000 individual truffles, to be sold by the half dozen. The group also packaged over 70 kg of chocolate almond bark, made for them by a Rotarian in Courtenay through his company Hot Chocolates.

What a happy, chatty production line it was! I heard jokes, learned and forgot names, listened in to the regulars instructing the new volunteers, and generally felt quite content to be surrounded by such friendly, helpful people. We scooped truffle centres, coated them in tempered chocolate, rolled them in coconut, ground almond or chocolate vermicelli, and packaged them carefully in gift boxes.

This fundraiser will make $20,000 once all the cakes, truffles and packages of chocolate bark are sold out – an extraordinary amount that will go to support projects both locally and abroad.

I did not get to sample a truffle, despite having so much truffle mixture on my hands by the time I'd rolled them in chocolate.

However, in the coffee room there was a tub of Christmas cake pieces, and my goodness, that cake is delicious! Get your order in quick; they are sure to sell out again: www.harboursidestore.ca.

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DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 75

“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!” ~ Elf, Will Ferrell ...and Happy New Year from all of us at Trillium Communities.

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A Gift Giving Season with Less Waste submitted by CRD Environmental Services

December is known

as the month of festivities and traditions. You're likely to put up decorations, get together with friends and family, and exchange gifts.

These are all fun and exciting activities that can be adapted just a little to make sure we create less waste.

Are you charged with the holiday spirit and ready to decorate your house and tree? Instead of buying new ornaments or décor, opt for secondhand alternatives or, even better, put your DIY skills to practise. Craft new decorations that are symbolic to you. Create puzzle wreaths and a cork star ornament, or new stockings made out of old sweaters.

Getting together with family and friends is always a good excuse to go all out with food. It is easy to go overboard with quantities, and inevitable to have leftovers. To reduce food waste this season you can: • Transform your leftovers into new dishes. For example: your juicy turkey can be turned into a turkey and veggie soup that will keep you warm this winter season.

• Couldn't eat it all? Make the most out of your freezer. Don't throw away that nice ham, bread rolls or stuffing. Freezing it will ensure you can enjoy it all again at a later date.

• Lastly – sharing is caring. Don't be afraid to send your guests home with some leftovers or even share with your neighbours who may or may not be great at cooking.

Gift giving can be challenging when you want to show your appreciation to friends and family. Make your life easier by making something yourself. You will be sharing your unique skills and creating something custom especially for them. This can be some cookies in Mason jars, or some coasters made out of old magazines,

both accompanied by a lovely note. Don't think you're crafty enough and want to purchase something instead? It is always a good idea to ask for a wish list. People will still be surprised with what you choose, and even better, they will use it! And remember: presents don't have to be material things. The best things in life are often experiences and thankfully annual passes can be tailored to tastes. Passes to the museum, to a rec centre or to Butchart Gardens are all very thoughtful and can be enjoyed thought the year. Another way to gift experiences is by giving quality time. A movie date voucher, a special dinner or a camping trip in the summer can help you stay connected with your loved ones to share not just "things" but your valuable time.

Want more ideas on how to reduce waste this holiday season? Visit www.crd.bc.ca/memories.

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violavanderuyt.ca Annette Quan

Viola Van de Ruyt

250-657-2222

250-657-2220

Senior Wealth Associate annette.quan@nbc.ca

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250-657-2208

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National Bank Financial - Wealth Management (NBFWM) is a division of National Bank Financial Inc. (NBF Inc.), as well as a trademark owned

by National Bank of Canada (NBC) that is used under license by NBF Inc. NBF Inc. is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF, and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NBC, a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: NA).

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 77

M E E T YO U R N E I G H B O U R S

by Stephanie Staples | photo by Amanda Cribdon Photography

Muave Va'a: The Strength of One If you run across Muave Va'a (Mua) in the community, you may want to take some time to pull up a chair and have a chat. When Mua talks, you will want to lean in so you don't miss a word.

Hailing from the Island of Samoa, Mua nows calls Tsartlip First Nation his home with thanks to his wife Marie, whom he met in the Cook Islands – I'm seeing an island theme in this man's life!

Mua has always been naturally pulled into roles that support communities: a helper at heart, he has spent 30+ years working with indigenous youth and volunteering where he saw a need, including Youth With a Mission (YWAM) and being the President of the Board of the NGO group Pacific People Partnership. Currently he is the front line program manager/coordinator for youth at Tsartlip and is not showing any signs of slowing down – I was lucky to squeeze this interview into his busy schedule!

While I'm certain he could talk at length about his Polynesian heritage, his three kids, his world travels and his philanthropic work, today Mua just wants you to know three things: do what needs to be done, don't define yourself by results, and take care of your body.

Looking at Mua, I imagined he had always been a strong, fit and healthy man, but during our conversation he tells me it wasn't always that way. Overweight, hypertensive and pre-diabetic, Mua was falling into a depressed state when Covid shocked the world. Inspired by a simple challenge that his friend had issued to bring awareness to mental health – do 25 push-ups for 25 days – something inside shifted. He pushed himself to complete the challenge, which at the time was very difficult for him, and shortly thereafter ended up in the hospital with chest pain. Thankfully tests revealed a healthy heart and a torn chest muscle – something time would fix on its own.

The beginning of physical change for Mua came in the time in between checking into the hospital and getting the results. He took a good long look in the proverbial mirror and then he had a full blown wake-up call. He thought about his spiritual- and faith-based life and how he put so much time, effort and energy into that, and he realized that he had put no energy into his physical health. Mua thought about who and what he needed to be healthy for. Taking care of himself wasn't about just looking better: it was about living life to the fullest, and most importantly to him, it was about being well enough to look after the people that he loved the most for a long time to come.

Mua left the fad diets behind and began to go to Panorama five days a week; he went on a self-care journey that had other people asking: "What are you doing?" The man who couldn't walk around the mall without losing his breath suddenly couldn't stop walking.

His health concerns began to dissipate, he had more energy and with more energy came the ability to help more people.

Mua has completed two years of healthy living now and is breaking up his health goals into six-month increments. He is serving as a wonderful role model, demonstrating perfectly that we are not single dimensional beings: we are multi-dimensional and it is only when we nurture all aspects of self – physical, spiritual, emotional, intellectual and community – that we can truly thrive and sustainably give our best to the world.

I hope you will take Mua's world and philosophy to heart; I have.

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Friday, December 9th, 2-8pm Saturday, December10th, 10-5pm Sunday, December 11th, 10-4pm

90+ Juried Artists & Artisans

Live Music | Hourly Give-A-Ways | Farm’s Gate Food

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Ave., Sidney BC

$5 Admission | Children Under 12 Free

www.firstandlastchance.ca DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 79

November Meeting

Check out some of our holiday best sellers!

by Deborah Rogers

Book Club

Permanent Astonishment is Tomson Highway's first The Light We Carry A World of Curiosities Michelle Obama Current Affairs | HC $42.00

Desert Star

Bosch 24 & Ballard

Gamache #18

Louise Penny Mystery | HC $39.99

True Reconciliation: How to Be a Force for Change

The Queen: Her Life

Andrew Morton Biography | HC $38.00

Fayne

Ann-Marie MacDonald Michael Connelly Fiction | HC Jody Wilson-Raybould Mystery | HC $40.00 First Nations | HC $37.00 $32.95

Fortune Knox Once: More Musings from the Edge

Jack Knox Regional | PB $22.95

E.J. Hughes:

Canadian War Artist

Robert Amos Art | HC $35.00

The Secret The Twist of a Knife Network of Nature Anthony Horowitz Peter Wohllben Nature | PB $22.95

Mystery | PB $24.99

Seven Moons of Maali Almeida

The Boys from Biloxi John Grisham Fiction | HC $39.95

No Plan B

Jack Reacher 27

Lee Child Mystery | HC $38.99

One:

Booker Prize 2022

Simple One-Pan Wonders

The Magician

Titans of War

Shehan Karunatilaka Fiction | PB $24.95

Colm Tóibín Fiction | PB $25.00

Jamie Oliver Cooking | HC $45.00

Wilbur Smith Fiction | PB $24.99

at Beacon & Fourth in Sidney open 7 days a week 250 656 2345 | tannersbooks.com

Open for browsing everyday, 9am to 5pm 80 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

installment of a planned five-volume memoir series. It covers his early years, from birth in sub-Artic Canada to age 15. Highway is a concert pianist, a playwright and a novelist; he's the speaker of many languages, and today splits his life between Canada and Italy, with long periods elsewhere in between. His life is so different than that of his parents and it's that traditional lifestyle that the book explores and presents so vividly.

Highway is an effervescent writer: his love of language and playfulness sparkle in every sentence. As a child, he and his family spoke Cree, but in Northern Manitoba many spoke Dene. The two are totally different, and through the early part of the book there's a focus on the naming of people and places in these two distinct languages. Of course, there was also English, the settler language which would become part of their vocabulary too. The mixing of the three makes for dense reading which our group found both delightful and challenging.

The life Highway lived with his family was harsh and beautiful. The book really stands as a testament to his parents' love for each other and for their family. The second youngest of 12, Highway shares the magic of dogsledding, hunting and fishing – living from the land and the resources available. Many of his siblings died in childhood and he describes the way he and his younger brother René were raised "like little Northern Princes."

Highway's father's desire for his children to be educated, and have the opportunity to live a better, safer life, meant that at only six Highway was sent off on a plane to the only school available – Guy Hill Residential School. For our readers it was difficult to process some parts of the book. Highway focuses on the positive of every moment. His astonishment is a sort of delight in the world so that even when he's describing being bullied, or some of the disturbing incidents at school, he places them within the context of the life he's subsequently lived, and expresses gratitude.

Permanent Astonishment provoked a long, wide-ranging discussion at our meeting. It stands as quite a contrast to other books detailing the Indigenous experience in Canada during the 1950s and 60s.

Many of us had read and watched interviews with Highway to help understand the book better. It was a great choice for the last meeting of the year.

Book Club will resume in January – watch out for information about what we're reading next in our January issue, or sign up for emails: www.seasidemagazine.ca/book-club/.

Breakfast - Lunch - Afternoon High Tea - Desserts - Happy Hour

at Adrienne's Restaurant & Tea Garden at Mattick's Farm, Cordova Bay, 250-658-1535

Adrienne’s Restaurant & Tea Garden • Cordova Bay Optometry • Fowler Glass Studio • Ladybug Boutique Lily Pad Lingerie • Liquor Plus • Paper Chain • Piper + Ally • Pure Day Spa • The Country Gift Shoppe • The Gallery at Mattick’s Farm

Shop Local, Shop Small.

The Shops at Mattick’s are a unique collection of independently owned boutiques in the heart of the Cordova Bay Community.

Just 20 minutes from the ferry, airport or downtown Victoria, it’s easy to reach from any direction. Whoever said money can’t buy happiness … just didn’t know where to go shopping!

High Tea Come and visit our Bakery, Deli and Restaurant for Breakfast, Lunch and Afternoon High Tea. We also offer Afternoon Tea plate and Kid’s Tea plate!

Regenerate Skin with Growth Factor Microneedling

Book your reservations for Christmas High Tea, try our Christmas Stollen and large selection of baked goods.

Happy Holidays to you and your family from all of us at Adrienne’s!

Pure Day Spa 250.590.PURE purevictoria.com

Breakfast - LunchRestaurant - Afternoon High - Happy H Adrienne’s & Tea Tea- Desserts Garden 250.658.1535 AdriennesTeaGarden.com

at Adrienne's Restaurant & Tea Garden at Mattick's Farm, Cordova Bay, 25

nisser/tomtar/wichtel/ hEInzelmÄnnchen

Illumination of love Holiday group show

These lovable little creatures play an important role in Scandinavian and German folklore. They are ageless and can be male or female. They are industrious and can carry out many tasks, but when annoyed, can also be very mischievous! At Christmas time they must be rewarded or appeased with a big bowl of rice porridge placed The in an appropriate place, like the attic!

November 1st through December 31st Artist: Alanna Sparanese.

Image: “Settling into the Seasons” #1-5 acrylic on canvas.

250.658.8333 thegalleryatmatticksfarm.com

swedish angel chimes Swedish Angel Chimes are back in stock at the Ladybug this Christmas. Very limited quantities this year, though.

Available in Brass or Silvertone.

Chime/Tree candles in stock in white, red, burgundy, gold and bees wax blend The Ring the store and we’ll happily put a set aside for you! at Mattick’s Farm

Ladybug Boutique

Ladybug Boutique 250.658.3807 ladybugboutiquevictoria.com

Ladybug Boutique 250.658.3807 ladybugboutiquevictoria.com

Ladybug Boutique at Mattick’s Farm

Make a difference this holiday season In December, each non-perishable food or hygiene product you bring in will earn you 3% off the purchase of new eyewear*, to a maximum of 15%. Items will be donated to Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank. *some exclusions apply Cordova Bay Optometry 778.587.3937 cordovabayoptometry.ca

Adrienne’s Restaurant & Tea Garden • Cordova Bay Optometry • Fowler Glass Studio • Ladybug Boutique Lily Pad Lingerie • Liquor Plus • Paper Chain • Piper + Ally • Pure Day Spa • The Country Gift Shoppe • The Gallery at Mattick’s Farm

Christmas has arrived!

Come and see the lights and trees that make this store so special this time of year.

Industrial design and fashion come together in these pocketsized essentials. Made in Holland with great care for quality, people and the environment.

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The Country Gift Shoppe 250.658.1812 facebook.com/countrygiftshoppe

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FOWLER GLASS STUDIO at Mattick's Farm Come and join us for a Wreath Workshop Saturday mornings in November and early December.

Beginner and Intermediate classes are ongoing.

Beautiful Sterling Silver and glass jewelry and many new works ready for Christmas!

Look for the studio behind the Red Barn Market.

FOWLER GLASS STUDIO at Mattick's Farm 250.893.9097 fowlerglassstudio.com

Discover the Plus

Celebrate a Personal Connection

A full service liquor store with a large selection of B.C. wines, spirits and craft beer.

Individually handcrafted with care, Pyrrha talismans protect, celebrate and inspire the wearer.

Come and explore our shop, with one-of-a-kind hand-chosen greeting cards, an amazing selection of unique giftware and treasures that will put a smile on your face. We pride ourselves on friendly customer service and welcome individual custom orders with many of our giftware lines.

Offering a walk-in cooler for all your chilled product needs.

Open 7 days a week, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Liquor Plus 778.265.2701 liquorplus.ca

Paper Chain 250.658.2725 Open Daily 10 am - 5.30 pm

for every occasion

Paper Chain

Open Monday to Saturday 10 - 5:30 • 11 - 5 Sundays • 5325 Cordova Bay Road, Victoria

www.matticksfarm.com

S TA B L E & F I E L D

by Cassidy Nunn | photo by Stuart Bryson

The Saanich Fair: A History of Volunteerism If you sense a buzz in the air around the Labour Day weekend every year on the Saanich Peninsula, it's most likely the energy and excitement coming from the longest standing agricultural fair in

84 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

British Columbia: The Saanich Fair. And if you've had the pleasure of experiencing the fair, which was first held back in 1868, you'll know there's a lot to see and do: from the food trucks; the farmers' market; horse and dog shows; livestock competitions; baking, photography, and junior competitions; and the rides and games at the midway, to the musical entertainment which begins each day at 9 a.m. and continues through to the evening, it's an event not to be missed.

This past September the fair saw around 43,000 entrants over the course of the three days; that number doesn't include volunteers or staff, which the fair is in great need of, in order to continue on in the same capacity that attendees have come to expect. The past few years have been difficult for the running of the fair: 2020 saw it shut down completely due to the pandemic restrictions; in 2021 it was operational but at a much smaller scale and 2022 saw it back to its former numbers in terms of attendance. The volunteers, however, have not kept up in numbers, which is a trend many organizations that rely on volunteers are increasingly seeing. Many longstanding Saanich Fair volunteers are ready to step down after years of service and are looking to pass the reins on to the next generation.

Amber Nelson, an employee with the non-profit North and South Saanich Agricultural Society and one of two employees who

organizes the Fair each year from January until September, is working hard to raise awareness about the need for volunteers for the Fair. "The more employees that need to be hired to replace the dedicated volunteer positions, the more likely the fair will have to adapt in the future," says Amber. Jenna Saunders, Chair of the Saanich Fair Committee, which is a year-round volunteer role, is also spreading the word and trying to generate more interest in becoming involved with the Fair. There's been a "huge decline in 4H," says Jenna, who's been involved with the 4H club for over 26 years. "The cost of owning animals has gone up substantially [and] a lot of people don't have the land to have these animals," she says. In past years, the 4H club's members have been participants as well as volunteers. "We're trying to figure out how to make it so that more kids financially can afford to be involved [with 4H]," Jenna adds.

The Rotary and Lions Clubs have also been instrumental in providing volunteers for the Saanich Fair over the years, but Amber says that both clubs also had to cut back some of their services this past year as they didn't have enough volunteers.

There are so many logistics that go on behind the scenes in order to get the Fair up and running (porta potties, security, tent rentals, equipment, janitorial, garbage collection, fees for entertainers etc.) and as with everything these days, the rentals and costs of running the Fair have gone up significantly. Volunteers are becoming more important than ever. So, how can you become involved with the fair as a volunteer? There are several options: the catalogue on the Saanich Fairgrounds website shows all the departments of the fair and "if a department piques their interest, they can reach out to the convenor," says Amber. There are also work parties that happen at the Fairgrounds throughout the course of the year, from gardening to painting, and these parties always include some tasty food as a bonus. Volunteers must be 14 years old, or accompanied by a parent or guardian if younger. Jenna and Amber encourage anyone interested in volunteering to reach out via the website for more information.

Volunteers receive free passes to the Fair for the weekend, access to the volunteer food room, plus they'll be "helping to keep something alive that's been around all these many years, because of the volunteers," adds Jenna. For more information, visit www.saanichfair.ca.

Happy Holidays to Our Great Community & Supporters from the ORCCA Family!

778-351-3393 · WWW.ORCCADENTAL.ORG

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 85

SEASIDE HOMES

by Janice Henshaw | photos by Jody Beck Photography

Urban/Rural Living –

THE BEST OF BOTH!

86 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

Living in a country setting, yet within 10 minutes of bustling Sidney, the airport and the ferries has to be one of the best combos going. A recently built 4,700-square-foot ranch-style home in North Saanich has exactly that, along with a big open sky view and the quiet that comes from living on six acres. It also has a gorgeous inground swimming pool built by Kilo Pools and an attached spa/hot tub (10 by 10 feet) with a tanning ledge.

Water cascades over the tiled sides of the hot tub and circulates in

the pool until the push of a button stops the water flow and heats the spa water. An underwater vacuum and electric pool cover help maintain the crystal-clear water.

This relaxing backyard oasis was designed for minimal maintenance: a concrete slab and artificial turf surround the large rectangular pool. Third-generation building contractor Graeme Mann (GTMann Contracting) said the ideal west-southwest orientation of the home offers maximum sun for outdoor living and

pool use. A berm and fence ensure privacy. At the far end of the pool, there is a gazebo, seating area, and a fire table.

The house side of the pool includes an outdoor shower, a large covered outdoor kitchen with a built-in barbecue, a generous-sized granite-topped counter and cabinets, and a wall-mounted TV. It also has a granite-topped fire table that provides a cozy ambience. One can only imagine how fun this spa-like backyard is for entertaining family and friends. (Outdoor granite work by Eurocraft.)

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 87

Interior designer Carley Petillion from Spaciz Design Company Inc. said the goal for Linda and Rawleigh's home was to create laid-back spaces that were both comfortable and striking. "It was important to have continuity from the outside in, staying true to the architectural design and rural setting; however, we wanted to avoid your typical traditional farmhouse design. We accomplished this through a curated combination of saturated colours, natural wood finishes, warm metals, and natural stone."

The natural beauty of the solid wood front door framed by glass panels indicates the quality of craftsmanship in the house. Inside, an oversized hanging light draws your eyes up to the white ceiling and stained beams. Graeme said he loves this timberwork – it extends over the open-concept living area and outside over the large rear patio. Due to the natural light flowing in from the huge windows, the dry-walled ceiling was finished with a level-5 coating; that means that every square inch of the ceiling is mudded and sanded to a fine finish to prevent bumps or joints from showing. A gas fireplace is mounted in a ceiling-high rock wall. Engineered hardwood floors, comfortable furniture, floating shelves, and a splendid pool view are key features in the main living area. Heated floors with separate control zones add comfort throughout the home, and there is a heat pump as well.

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WWW.AVENUEBHOMEDECOR.COM 88 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

Linda's dream kitchen has been transformed into reality.

Top-line Wolf appliances include double ovens, a deluxe gas stove with a pot filler, a wine fridge, and a large island with lots of drawers and overhead, another contemporary light from Pine Lighting. The dramatic Skara Brae Cambria Quartz counters and backsplash add to the beauty of the Shaker cabinets, which are wire brushed and painted in two colours – Anonymous, a warm earthy grey and Shinnoki Desert Oak. (Cabinetry work by Thomas Phillips.) There is a double Blanco sink (granite composite), a utility sink, and a third sink in the pantry. Linda said no to a big sliding window in the kitchen: "I don't want anyone to think they can walk up and say "I need a cheeseburger and fries!"

Wheelchair-accessible hallways with lofty 10-foot ceilings lead to the three bedrooms and four bathrooms. The principal bedroom has a spacious walk-in closet that Linda is super pleased with; there is lots of room for shoes and boots!

The ensuite bathroom is stunning – the walls and floor reflect light from shiny 24- by 24-inch porcelain tiles.

Windows that face the backyard pool can be switched from a clear view to opaque privacy. There is a curvy white standalone soaking tub, a curbless shower, and a separate toilet room. Two custom-built quartz-topped vanities face each other; they have floor-level lighting and large mirrors with built-in lights.

O

O U T L OOKS

D E S I G N L

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Outside, the HardiePlank boards and contrasting shingles are painted in Anonymous and Thunder, the same as inside the home.

Varied roof pitches, stained wood soffits and a rock-faced three-bay garage with wood-panelled doors and upper windows enhance the home's classy look. (Rock work by Alliston Stoneworks.) The garage has a star tenant – a gleaming blue 1969 Camaro convertible. Built over the garage is Rawleigh's "man cave," which includes a gas fireplace, tv, laid-back leather seating, and a room-length built-in cabinet topped in dark grey quartz with a large, tiled backsplash and sink. Rawleigh's parents are both artists, and their work is displayed throughout the house – wonderfully expressive wood carvings by his father and a lovely painting of the heritage Sheringham Point Lighthouse by his mother.

Linda and Rawleigh, owners of Envirorush Services, are thrilled with their new home. Linda said that all GT Mann staff have unbelievable work ethics and caring values. "We were so fortunate that we chose them to build our 'forever' home." They are also very glad to have accepted Graeme's suggestions to bring in Ryan Hoyt (Hoyt Design Co.) to design their home and Interior Designer Carley to participate right at the start of the building process. Linda said Carley was "phenomenal and took the stress out of building."

Rawleigh added: "Carley is ahead of the game and gives everything right to the builder saying 'here are the spec sheets,' and so the builder is not waiting for anything, there are no decision delays."

It's a comfortable, modern, and beautifully designed home – exactly what Linda and Rawleigh wanted. I hope they invite me back next summer to review their swimming pool and hot tub in my bathing suit!

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TIDMAN CONSTRUCTION

Reach out to a wider Victoria and Vancouver Island market.

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and fun to read magazine every last tuesday & thursday of the month in the times Colonist!

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timescolonist.com 7/28/20 1:36:42 PM

HOT PROPERTIES

For Sale on

Vancouver Island

BROADMEAD SUN & VIEWS $1,498,000

Bright, south-facing, meticulously maintained END UNIT in one of BROADMEAD's most sought-after complexes!

Quality built 1985 West Coast inspired design, with sunken Living Room, vaulted cedar ceiling, original rock FP and fantastic open plan offers 2,037sf, on 2-levels, 3BD/3BA and soaring 14' ceilings. Bonus oversized double garage for your cars, bikes, toys & tools!

ML 916719.

Mona Palfreyman 250.656.4626

This spacious quality home has a flexible floor plan with room for the entire family. The main level is bright with city and mountain views. Newer kitchen appliances, large balcony and SW facing patio areas. 3,327sf, with 5 BD, 3 BA, with a bonus in-law accommodation.

MLS 91669

SAYWARD HILL HAS IT ALL! $1,580,000

EXQUISITE ARBUTUS RIDGE! $1,795,000

SO LD

HUNTINGWOOD TOWNHOUSE! $965,000

Mona Palfreyman 250.656.4626

Exceptionally bright & meticulously maintained quality end unit condo, built 2005 concrete & steel construction, offering 1,890sf, 2BD/2BA+Media, featuring floor-toceiling windows capturing brilliant sunrises, premium panoramic unobstructed vistas over Cordova Bay Golf Course, Gulf Islands, Salish Sea & Mt. Baker front & center! Open concept plan plus all-season balcony to enjoy the views/BBQ's. MLS 918478 Ingrid Jarisz* 250.656.4626

Ingrid Jarisz* 250.656.4626

STUNNING PORT ROYALE OCEAN VIEW TOWNHOME

SIDNEY WATERFRONT LIVING!

Possibly one of the best units and renovations in this sought-after Waterfront Gated Community. End unit, one-level Rancher fantastic layout, 1,452 sf, 2 Bed/2Bath, filled with natural light all around capturing the stunning beauty of the Saanich Inlet and surrounding Malahat Mountains with massive outdoor Deck and Balcony of 678sf. $1,298,000. MLS 917085

Located on a sheltered shoreline near Robert's Bay, this exquisite custom built, 1-level, 3,980sf home is perfectly positioned in one of most desirable waterfront locations. You will be equally impressed with the quality inside. This home has been meticulously maintained, solid mechanics incl. heat pump and offers an exceptional layout. MLS 908660

Ingrid Jarisz* 250.656.4626

Ingrid Jarisz* 250.656.4626

(personal real estate corp*)

(personal real estate corp*)

West Coast Contemporary 2015 custom built, this is one of the few newer homes in this sought-after seaside community resort. Recent updates. impressive grand entry & staircase, 11'6" coffered ceilings and maple hardwood. Primary Bedroom on the main, over 3,300 sf, 3 BD/3BA + den. Inspiring views to golf course & Gulf Islands. MLS 918187

(personal real estate corp*)

(personal real estate corp*) DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 93

HOT PROPERTIES

Vancouver Island

LOCHSIDE DRIVE SIDNEY ONE LEVEL OCEAN GLIMPSE $1,298,000 SO LD

WEST COAST SEASIDE RETREAT!

For Sale on

A spectacular SW facing oceanfront masterpiece is set on .83 acre in French Beach. A showpiece of West Coast architecture, designed by Jim Merrill and has been a recipient of multiple gold Care Awards, this 3 bed, 3 bath, 3633 sqft home is a one-of-kind and is a true artistic beauty. MLS 917112

You’ll be impressed with this wonderful 3 bed/2 bath home situated just steps from the ocean! completely renovated inside to out including new stucco, roof, and complete structural design changes inside. Spacious gourmet kitchen with loads of cabinetry space, & centre island .

Lovely private outdoor sitting areas to enjoy the sun and evening dining. ML 916620

Maryan van Stolk* 250.656.4626

Maryan van Stolk* 250.656.4626

(personal real estate corp*)

DEEP COVE 10 ACRES - FIRST TIME ON MARKET

RARE OFFERING IN EXCLUSIVE DEEP COVE

SO LD

$2,979,000

(personal real estate corp*)

A charming 22-year-old home designed by the late Pamela Charlesworth, situated on ten acres of productive farmland. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Currently, sheep and chicken raising is going on and a small amount of crop growing.

Coming to the market soon – call for more details. ML 914556.

Nestled on a private, .78 acre flat, sun-drenched property, minutes to beach access! This unique architectural beauty was built by current owners with an open concept that is perfect for entertaining or relaxing with family. Main floor just under 3000 sqft and includes the primary bedroom for those who enjoy one level living. MLS 907426

Maryan van Stolk* 250.656.4626

Maryan van Stolk* 250.656.4626

(personal real estate corp*)

(personal real estate corp*)

NEW PRICE! 1900 Chinook Place $1,699,000

THIS COULD BE YOU! To feature your listing in next issue's Hot Properties contact allison@seasidemagazine.ca.

Dean Park executive living without the restrictions.

Prestigious 3 bed/4 bath home offering entry level living with large rooms, romantic primary suite, and second bedroom on the main floor. Flexibility for a 4th bedroom with ensuite plus a fully selfcontained 1 bedroom suite on the lower.

Centrally located.

MLS 913240

Stephanie Peat 250.656.0131 stephaniepeat.ca 94 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

Monthly Giveaway!

BOATERS & LOVERS OF THE SEA 740 Sea Drive

#loveyourlocal with the monthly Seaside Magazine giveaway box, filled with amazing gifts from our local businesses.

HOW TO PLAY? Find the image of the box hidden somewhere in this issue.

Delight in this Deep Water Dock Beauty with Foreshore Licence, PLUS Legal NEW Suite, all designed for 180' VIEWS, SUNSET VISTAS of OCEAN and SAILS! $3,500,000

Visit www.seasidemagazine.ca/SeasideBox

by December 31st to let us know where you found it. *one entry per person, per issue. Each entrant is eligible to win the Seaside box giveaway no more than once per calendar year.

Marilyn Ball | 250.818.6489

1600+ Sq Ft of LIVING SPACE FOR $849,000!

Wonderful opportunity to own a beautifully appointed 2 bedroom/2 bathroom plus den corner suite. Filled with light, it’s a great place to live, secure undercover parking, well run strata with a good contingency fund. 2 blocks to the ocean, 1 block to Beacon – the location couldn’t be better. A great place to call home!

Karen Dinnie-Smyth Personal Real Estate Corporation www.karendinnie-smyth.com 250.655.0608

RESTHAVEN BY THE SEA $469,000

Thanks to October’s Community Partners: Author Valerie Green • Lifestyle Markets Melinda’s Biscotti • Garage Cycle Spin Studio Stonehouse Pub • Cordova Candle Co. RockCoast Confections

Congratulations to October’s winner, Louise M. 1 bed 2 bath condo. Well run adult-style complex with indoor pool, fitness room, courtyard gardens, secure parking. Large balcony, ocean glimpses.

Your active lifestyle awaits!

250.217.9751 www.XoxoHomes.ca DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 95

2022 Saanichton Community Christmas "Food for Families" The Saanichton Community Christmas event is on !

With so many local events being cancelled over the past couple of years, the SVA, with the continued support of

the local businesses of the Saanichton Village, managed to maintain this important community event and is pleased to announce this year's Christmas event is a go once again! We will continue to

12 days of

Christmas Giving!

Help us make Christmas special for those in need!

1. See our list, check it twice!

2. Each day add one item to your hamper bag 3. Day 13- deliver to the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank!

Here’s what we need the most!

Twelve Days Of Christmas

Day 1 - Cereal Day 2 - Canned Tomatoes Day 3 - Toothbrushes Day 4 - School Snacks Day 5 - Juice Day 6 - Canned Fruit Day 7 - Pasta Sauce Day 8 - Cake / Muffin Mixes Day 9 - Shampoo / Body Wash Day 10 - Helpers (instant potatoes, hamburger helper) Day 11 - Canned Meat Day 12 - Pancake mix

FOOD BANK: 9586 Fifth street (in Iroquois Park) 250-655-0679

MAKE CHEQUES PAYABLE TO: Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank DONATE ONLINE: splfoodbank.com MAILING ADDRESS: www.splfoodbank.com P.O. Box 2281, Sidney B.C., V8L 3S8

96 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

keep the event safe for families and groups to participate in, and our focus this year is to ensure we raise as much money as possible for the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank that continually helps local families and seniors at risk. We strongly believe this Christmas will be another tough one for many local families and we are stepping up to do our part. We hope you will join us in this fun, local event that has run for 17 consecutive years. Last year's event raised $14,000 for our local Peninsula Food Bank.

Mark your calendars for Saturday December 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The SVA's Saanichton Community Christmas event will include the following events: Photos with Santa with the return of the Pancake Breakfast, Carriage Rides with Tally-Ho, and The Christmas Tree Trail is returning with the "find the horse stuffy" theme. Families can walk the village and collect the names of at least six of the horses hidden inside the Christmas trees, or windows of local businesses. Children will have the chance to win one of the many stuffies at the end of the event in our regular contest draw.

Cookie Decorating will be held at the Pioneer Museum by way of a free cookie kit for the kids that will be provided to each child to take home. The Pioneer Museum is open once again for people to stop in and grab a hot cider, but will not be setting up their decorating stations.

The cost of this year's event will be $25 for a group up to three and $50 per group of four to six, which covers all the activities (with the exception of the Pancake Breakfast). Every dollar raised will go directly to the food bank, and a tax receipt will be issued. Payment for the event will include: Photos with Santa and Carriage Rides, (first come first serve), drip coffee, hot chocolate, and cookie kit. Pay via etransfer to: saanichtonvillageassociation@ gmail.com For more information on the event visit the Saanichton Village website at www. saanichtonvillage.ca. We'll be updating the details as the event gets closer to include links to the participating businesses as more jump onboard.

TA K E N O T E

by Jo Barnes

Christmas Craft and Bake Sale Artist-Directed Exhibitions

9AM – 2PM

Central Saanich Lawn Bowling Club

ONGOING IN DEC

Dec 1: Potters by the Sea Dec2-8: Doug Philp Dec 9-15: Sticks and Stones – Original Paintings & Artistic Wood Turning Dec 16-22: Art with Variety and Vision Dec 23-Jan 12: Art on the Deck

ArtSea Gallery Tulista Park, 9565 Fifth Street, Sidney The popular local gallery showcases a variety of artists presenting painting, poetry works, jewelry and more. www.artsea.ca/events

Live Music

DEC 3

ONGOING IN DEC 7:30PM

Dec 2: Bijoux du Bayou (Cajun, Zydeco and Tex-Mex) Dec 9: Kelby McNair's Tiny Rhythm Kings (Swing Jazz) Dec 16: Open Mic Jingle Jam

Brentwood Bay Village Empourium 2 - 7103 West Saanich Road, Brentwood Bay Live Music Fridays at Empourium: an intimate and licensed venue featuring a variety of folk, roots, blues and jazz artists. All shows are by advance reservation only – no ticket sales at the door. To reserve: www.empourium.ca/events

The Peninsula Singers: “Gift of Christmas”

DEC 2- 4

Dec 2 & 3: 7:30pm | Dec 4: 2pm

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney The popular festive event returns to the Charlie White Theatre! The show features music from traditional Christmas ensembles, jazz, rock and R & B Christmas classics to today’s Christmas music hits. With a great show band, dancers, featured young artists, singalongs, wonderful costumes and plenty of humour, it’s guaranteed to be a show for the whole family. Proceeds go to support the Saanich Peninsula’s Healthcare Foundation’s Music Therapy Program and the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank. www.marywinspear.ca/ event/gift-christmas

98 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

1800 Hovey Road, Centennial Park, Saanichton Here’s a great local opportunity to do some Christmas shopping! There will be an assortment of crafts, sewing goods, knitted items and homemade preserves.

Free admission.

For more info: www.sites.google.com/site/csaanichlawnbowls/home

We Are One! 2022 - The Show

DEC 3 2PM

First Metropolitan United Church, Victoria 932 Balmoral Rd, Victoria An outstanding live show for Human Solidarity Day and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Tickets $20 in advance on Eventbrite: www.we-are-one-2022; www.eventbrite.ca or call 250-889-0871 or 250-882-4339.

Holiday Card Making Workshop

DEC 3 & 4

Dec 3: 2-4pm (Family Style) Dec 4: 11:30am-1pm (Family Style) 2-4pm (Teen/Adult)

McTavish Academy of Art 1720 McTavish Road, North Saanich Led by Laura Evans, participants will create their very own handmade seasonal greeting cards using custom-made stencils and a variety of techniques. Class is suitable for beginners and experienced artists alike.

All supplies included in the cost. www.mctavishacademy.ca

MakeShare's Local Folk Fair: Holiday Market

DEC 4

11AM-4PM

Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse 2487 Mt. St. Michael Road, Saanichton Enjoy a magical festive experience at this unique holiday market set indoors and out amidst an orchard setting at Sea Cider! Featuring 25 local artisan vendors, delicious hot food and drink (including hot mulled cider), live festive music and lights, carollers, gift wrapping and wreath-making! $5 admission; children under 12 free.

For more info: www.makeshare.ca/marketplace/holiday-fair

DEC 5

Blood Donor Clinic

12-6PM

Mary Winspear Centre, Bodine Hall 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney Book your appointment to save a life! Thank you Sidney for being a community who Makes All The Difference! Book through: www.blood.ca/en or GiveBlood app or by calling 1-888-2DONATE (1-888-236-6283)

Sidney by the Seagulls

DEC 6-23

Peninsula Gallery #100 - 2506 Beacon Avenue, Sidney With a fine art career spanning over 30 years, multiaward winning artist Sheena Lott showcases ink and watercolour paintings from her popular series “Sidney by the Seagulls” as well as other watercolour pieces she has created. She also illustrated 13 children’s books, some of which will be available for purchase. Free event.

For more info: info@pengal.com; 250-655-1722 www.pengal.com

Holiday Tunes with Edie DaPonte & Joey Smith

DEC 8

6-8:30PM

RIVA Restaurant 2537 Beacon Avenue, Sidney A favourite at RIVA, award winning singer/songwriter Edie DaPonte and well-known Victoria guitarist and bassist Joey Smith offer an entertaining evening of wonderful seasonal music. No cover charge.

For reservations: 250-656-6690

Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair

DEC 9, 10 & 11

Dec 9: 2-8pm Dec 10: 10am-5pm Dec 11: 10am-4pm

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney Looking for Christmas gift ideas? This fair features over 80 artisans from the West Coast and surrounding islands offering pottery, metal works, sculptures, wood working, glass and yarn works, weaving, body and skin care, jewelry, and sweet and savoury treats. www.firstandlastchance.ca

Festive Brass Presents “Holiday Horns”

DEC 15 7:30PM

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney Celebrate the festive season and support local school music programs! Evening entertainment includes classic holiday tunes performed by a 12-piece brass and special guests, Stelly’s, Parkland, and Claremont Secondary School choirs. Proceeds go to School District 63 music programs. Silent auction at intermission. Tickets on sale at the box office, call 250-656-0275 or order online www.marywinspear.ca/festive-brass-ensemble-holiday

Peninsula Newcomers Club Luncheon

DEC 15

11:30AM-2PM

The SHOAL Centre 10030 Resthaven Drive, Sidney Welcoming women to the Peninsula since 1987! Prebooking required. The seasonal luncheon will include games, door prizes and plenty of fun! For further details: www.peninsulanewcomers.com

Winter Wonderland

DEC 17-23 11AM-3PM

Panorama Recreation Centre 1885 Forest Park Drive, North Saanich The arena is transformed into a beautiful winter scene with penguins, polar bears, twinkling lights, a Christmas tree and Santa Claus! Skate among the lights or just enjoy the festive spirit. The multi-day event kicks off with a Family Carnival on December17. It’s fun for the whole family with painting on the ice, kid’s games, hot chocolate and a special visit from Santa! www.crd.bc.ca/panorama

Peninsula Players Presents: Alice in Pantoland

DEC 23, 24, 26, 27, 29 & 30

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney Alice meets the White Rabbit and follows him down a hole in the ground where she finds herself in Pantoland, the town where pantomime characters live in the off-season. Prince Charming has been kidnapped by the Ice Queen and she has a wicked scheme to take over Pantoland! Fun for the family during the festive season! Check out dates, times and tickets: www.marywinspear.ca/event/alice-pantoland

Have something for Take Note?

Email takenote@seasidemagazine.ca

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 99

Peninsula Panthers

Running with the Big Dogs

The 2022/23 season in the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League has been one which has seen the Peninsula Panthers face unprecedented adversity in terms of sickness and injury and yet one which has seen the Club prevail for the most part. Being the reigning and defending Vancouver Island Junior Hockey Champions after an exhilarating postseason run which culminated in an Overtime 4-3 win in Game 6 against the Oceanside Generals back on April 1 in the confines of the Panorama Recreation Centre, the Cats now have a big target on their backs each and every time out. A close-knit group has been up to the task, in fact have the 2nd best winning percentage of the 41 Junior B Teams in the Province of British Columbia.

Panthers General Manager Pete Zubersky discussed his Team’s success with Seaside Magazine. “Coreen and I purchased the Peninsula Panthers in 1999 and in all those years I have not seen such a rash of injuries and then sickness that we have faced this current campaign.” The GM pointed to the fact that there have been significant injuries to knees and shoulders and the Panthers have even had one of their key defencemen come down with some internal pain after practice in October. The next day he headed to Emergency and later had an emergency procedure to remove his appendix and is just coming back now after six weeks of rehabilitation. But the bad luck did not stop there. The Cats made a deal to acquire 20-year-old defenceman Andrew Braun, who many pundits believe is a Top 5 defenceman in the League. It was in early October when the deal was completed and Braun was looking great in his first game with the Club. But late in the 2nd period he crashed into the boards near the visitors’ players bench and had to be helped to the dressing room after a significant knee injury. Braun did not receive surgery however is still facing some lengthy and at times grueling rehabilitation and Zubersky is hoping that he will return early in the New Year. At one point, four of the top five defencemen on the squad were wearing suits on Game Day. And yet there was more bad news to follow. A flu bug ripped through the team and it saw as many as five players missing for games at one time. But the Club has managed to continue with their winning ways, albeit, most of the contests have been by the slimmest of margins. The Panthers have played more one-goal games than any other Club in the entire Province and it is not even close.

100 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | DECEMBER 2022

Zubersky feels that this 2022/23 edition has a distinct chance of winning. They have the necessary ingredients in terms of experience in the returning veterans and several talents rookies.

“I believe there are a number of reasons as to why we have found ways to win,” quipped the General Manager. “I think that new Head Coach Chris Driebergen has done an excellent job with the boys. He is very calm and this plays well when there is adversity.

Our goaltenders in twin brothers Mason and Brady Kelly have been nothing short of outstanding. We have had a tough time scoring goals but our team defence is the best in the League by far and this is our identity. And finally, our depth and our experience from the rigors of last season has been crucial. We have relied on every single guy on the roster and each night it seems like someone unexpectedly steps up. Last year we had the top two scorers in the League in Riley Braun and Logan Speirs but this year it is getting the job done by committee. We have some work to do to put the finishing touches on this group but the players will determine all of that. I believe that players and not Coaches or General Managers make the decisions. They determine everything through their play and that does all the talking.”

Driebergen is in his inaugural season as a Bench Boss in Junior Hockey and seems to be fully enjoying the experience. “For us to be successful we need to be a defence-first Team. I have made it clear to the players that they need to do less, but be exceptional at it. When we try to do too much and play outside our skill-set or specific role, it is at those times that we find ourselves in trouble.

Less is more.”

Zubersky and Driebergen both have a clear goal and believe it is important to take a run at 1st place in the South Division although the competition has loaded up to challenge. The Victoria Cougars, Saanich Predators and Panthers are separated by only a few points as the season hits the midway mark and points are tough to come by. The Panthers do have an ace in their back pockets and that is the best fan support in the South. And they intend to make that pay!

Jr. Hockey Club

UPCOMING home games

Panorama Recreation Centre

Puck drops FRIDAYS at 7:30 p.m.

NOV. 25 DEC. 2 9 JAN. 6 13

vs. Victoria Cougars vs. Kerry Park Islanders vs. Westshore Wolves vs. Saanich Predators vs. Oceanside Generals @ppanthersvijhl

Visit our website: www.ppanthers.bc.ca “... to be successful, we need to be a defence-first team.”

Opposite page: (Bottom L) Panthers’ Captain, #7 Matt Seale rushes the puck out of his zone vs. the Kerry Park Islanders.

(Bottom R) Peninsula Panthers Roster lined up on the blue line prior to the Remembrance Day Ceremony.

Left: Panthers’ Head Coach, Chris Driebergen ( R) and A/Coach, Len Dawes in a home game at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Below: (Top L) The trio of Tanner Banks, Ryan Grambart & Payton Braun celebrate after lighting the lamp. This thr eesome has been dominant and is one of the top lines in the VIJHL. (Top R) #16, Luka Jansen van Rensburg and #8, Ethan Lingard cause havoc in front of the Oceanside Generals’ net.

(Bottom L) 6’7” 16-year-old Seth Fryer gets set to step on the ice to the cheers of a number of young Peninsula Panthers’ fans.

(Bottom R) Head Coach, Chris Driebergen addresses his troops during a time-out. On ice-L to R: #18 Kieran Smith, #15 Malcolm Fletcher, #7 Matt Seale, #20 Cameron Sneek and #5 Reid Fryer.

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 101

Last Word

from the

Editorial Director

Deborah Rogers

I wasn't really feeling ready for the Holidays and contemplating the end of the year – I still have so much to do! But by the time I'd read through every page of this huge December issue, I have to say I'd changed my tune. I really hope it's the same for you – that once you've seen all the articles, beautiful photos and helpful adverts, that you feel like you've had a big seasonal hug.

The editorial team puts their hearts into every issue, but I think we'd all agree that December feels special.

We want to create something that you'll want to keep in your home and refer back to. We hope the recipe pages (pg 15 and pg 34) will be covered in flour or splatters from the stove because you've been testing them. We hope there will be circles around items in the Gift Guide (pg 10) as you consider your Christmas shopping. Maybe you'll tear out the page of Winter Wellness Tips (pg 69) and stick it on the side of the fridge as a reminder to look after yourself this month. It's with great joy that I imagine you telling a friend or neighbour that you saw their business featured in the magazine or read an interview with them.

You can imagine me making the mulled wine recommended by Tilar in Off the Vine (pg 48), tucking into one of the books recommended by Jackie in the 2022 Book Wrap Up (pg 22), oh, and maybe finally sampling one of those truffles I had a hand in making (pg 74).

As we navigate December with its excitement and excess, I'm also going to be reflecting on the way that this year feels different than the last two, but still not quite like it used to be. Maybe that's the thing with Christmas celebrations: we cling to the idea of how we feel it should be, even as we grow and change and the world around us changes too.

Wishing you all joy and peace this Holiday season, wherever you choose to look for it.

b e D Photo by Janis Jean Photography. Clothing provided and styled by Ecotopia Naturals.

For more, visit www.ecotopianaturals.com. Shot on location at Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse.

18th Saanichton community chriStmaS & Food Bank FundraiSer A Peninsula Family Tradition Saturday, December 3rd • 9 - 1 Participation by Donation 100% of Proceeds To Food Bank $25 for a group of 1-3 $50 for groups of 4-6 Includes All Activities, Coffee, Hot Chocolate, Pizza (except Pancake Breakfast by Donation) Photos with Santa

9 - 12 at St. Mary’s Church (Cultra and East Saanich Rd)

Tally-Ho Carriage Rides

Christmas Tree Trail 9 -1

10 - 2 at Central Saanich Municipal Hall

pre-register online at www.saanichtonvillage.com

Win a Horse Stuffie

Pancake Breakfast By Central Saanich Lions

By Donation

9 : 30 - 1:00 Free Cookie Decorating at Pioneer Museum

EVENT SPONSORED BY:

Drive-Thru Food Bank: Drop Off at Pioneer Square

We can’t stop thinking about the future.

It seems no matter the decade, regardless of what’s going on in the world, we always have a desire to safeguard the future.

A legacy gift to Broadmead Care is a gift for future generations.

Visit www.broadmeadcare.com/legacy-giving-atbroadmead-care to learn more.

DECEMBER 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 103

SIDNEY All Care Residence Our Family Taking Care of Your Family

Photos taken in 2018

Warmest Holiday Greetings, from Sidney All Care!

Holidays are a time to gather and celebrate traditions, both old and new. At Sidney All Care we are all about traditions that bring joy, laughter, warmth and comfort to our home. Wherever you are celebrating your traditions this year, we hope you too, experience the spirit of the holidays.

From our family to yours, we wish you a very happy holiday season!

Contact our General Manager Gilles Lacroix to book a visit today and learn how easy and comfortable a move from your home to ours will be.

778.351.2505 | glacroix@allcarecanada.ca.

Proudly Offering Long Term, Respite and Palliative Care 778.351.2505 • www.allcarecanada.ca • 2269 Mills Rd, Sidney