Seaside Magazine August 2025 Issue

BURGER PARADISE

Peninsula Cravings

PHONES DOWN Time to Connect

Anthea Helmsing

PHOTO MALAHAT SKYWALK

Sue Hodgson

In our last issue, I opened up about the importance of mental health and the need to create space for open, honest conversations. I shared how it’s OK not to be OK – and that message clearly struck a chord. Since my First Word was published, I’ve received so many heartfelt notes and messages from readers who simply wanted to say thank you. It reminded me how many people are carrying invisible burdens and how powerful it can be when we give each other permission to speak freely.

These conversations have inspired me to create some action. Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with Sam and Aaron, owners of Butik Naturals in Sidney, to explore ways we can support local youth navigating mental health challenges. I'm thrilled to share that for the entire month of August, Butik Naturals will be donating partial proceeds from all linen sales to support the Shoreline Medical Youth Clinic through their "Linen for a Cause" campaign.

The Youth Clinic is a safe, welcoming space where young people can access care and speak confidentially about their physical and mental health. It’s an essential service in our community – one that makes a real difference in young lives every single day. When we support our youth, we strengthen our whole community. I’m so grateful to Butik Naturals for stepping up in such a generous way, and I hope you’ll join us in this initiative. Whether you’re purchasing a linen clothing item at Butik, sharing the message, or simply checking in on someone who might be struggling, every gesture counts. Together, we can make it easier for the next generation to know they’re not alone – and that it's truly OK to ask for help.

Seaside Sue, Publisher & Owner

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

TABATHA GOLAT tabatha@seasidemagazine.ca

SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER

KATHERINE KJAER katherine@seasidemagazine.ca

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

JANIS JEAN hello@janisjean.com

SARAH HARTLEY sarahhartleyphotography@gmail.com

P.O. BOX 2173, SIDNEY, B.C. V8L 3S6 www.seasidemagazine.ca

Seaside Magazine is printed by Mitchell Press. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited; please contact us via the above means for approval. Views of contributors do not necessarily reflect the policy or views of the publisher and editor.

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

TED CHILD Page 19

Serious journalism is the imparting of essential information, including where to find a quick and well-made burger any day of the week. After many hours of exhaustive research, it felt like it was time to impart some vital knowledge regarding convenience burgers on the Peninsula.

SHERRIN GRIFFIN

Page 41

Our culture surrounding death has experienced a welcome shift to a remembrance that blends respectful mourning with joyful celebration. Celebrations of Life can be a wonderful, personalized approach to honouring the passing of your loved one, with the focus on celebrating a life well lived.

RICHARD HOPE

Page 68

Vancouver Island's fermentation renaissance showcases ancient traditions meeting modern innovation. From Coastal Black Estate's blueberry mead –humanity's oldest alcoholic beverage reimagined with Island terroir – to Victoria Cider Company's barrel-aged Cyser, local artisans are creating exceptional beverages that celebrate both heritage and place.

DONNA STEWART

Page 45

Hearing decline generally happens very slowly. Over time, the bird’s song isn’t as bright, music isn’t as dynamic, and getting together with friends isn’t as fun.

Do you wait until you can’t get by anymore, or book a hearing test to find out your options?

Other Contributors: Jo Barnes, Ted Child, June Murray Dagnall, Allan Daly, Jamila Douhaibi, Sherrin Griffin, Heidi Hackman, Janice Henshaw, Jesse Holth, Richard Hope, Tina Kelly, Pamela Martin, Ashley Morris, Joan Saunders, Marita Schauch, Claudette Sells, Stephanie Staples, Donna M. Stewart, Shelley Tice, Chace Whitson, Todd G. Wiebe

Building Community Through Connection

MaryAn Van Stolk *

Ingrid Jarisz *

Mona palfreyman

Ralph Meuser

ADMISSION

SEASIDE FLAVOUR

One Food, Three Ways

THE LAMB BURGER (yields 10 5oz patties)

1.5 kg ground lamb

cup chopped fresh mint

chopped parsley

1 tbsp chopped garlic

cup chopped red onion

1 ½ tsp ground cumin

1 ½ tsp ground coriander

1 ½ tsp smoked paprika

1 ½ tsp dried oregano

2 tbsp grainy

Dijon mustard

1 ½ tsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

1 whole egg

garlic mayo (make or buy)

cucumber, sliced very thin

sliced tomato (ripe Roma)

feta cheese

leaf lettuce

toasted brioche burger bun

Lamb Three Ways

Why do I love lamb? I find it so versatile in the styles of cooking used, for example braising (lamb shank), flame grilling (lamb chops), baking (lamb rack), sautéing (lamb loin), boiling (lamb bone and off cuts for Scotch broth). Sheep have been on Vancouver Island since the late-1800s arrival of the first European settlers. Many of the Gulf Islands also herd sheep; no predators plus a year-round mild climate allows the sheep to graze at ease all year long. It's a great chance to support and eat local! Salt Spring Island Lamb has been served to the Queen of England on past visits to B.C.

WORDS CHEF ALLAN DALY, 10 ACRES PIER SIDNEY

PHOTO JANIS JEAN

THE SHANK

three 12-14 oz shanks (fresh)

½ cup white onion, 1-inch dice

½ cup carrot, 1-inch dice

1 bulb garlic, chopped

3 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary

3 tbsp chopped fresh thyme

2 tbsp fresh mint

2 tsp chopped fennel seed

2 tsp crushed and chopped fine all-spice

2 tsp smoked paprika

2 tsp ground cumin

1 ½ tbsp sea salt

1 tbsp crushed black peppercorn

½ beef bouillon cube

1 tbsp grainy mustard

1 ½ tbsp brown sugar

2 x 796 ml cans fire roasted crushed tomatoes (Muir Glen is a favourite)

½ bottle red wine (not expensive)

eg Black Label

1 lg fry pan

1 med. size braising pot with lid

THAI CURRY ( yields 3 portions)

¾ cup olive oil

1 lb lamb sirloin from a local butcher (I love Carnivore in Brentwood Bay)

1 tbsp fresh minced ginger

1 tbsp fresh minced garlic

½ tsp ground cumin

½ tsp fennel seed, chopped

½ tsp garam masala

¾ tsp turmeric

½ tsp gochujang chili

paste (can find at Fairway Markets)

1 x 400ml can coconut milk

1 tsp smooth peanut butter

1 tsp brown sugar

1 cup cilantro (leaves only)

¼ cup chopped mint

½ tsp lime zest

juice from 1 fresh lime

¼ cup diced red onion

¾ cup vegetable broth

½ cup cornstarch slurry

250 g large rice stick noodles (Fairway Markets), blanched for 3 min and cooled

12 oz king mushrooms, sliced into ¾ inch strips (Fairway Markets)

1 ½ cup arugula

1/2 cup spinach

¼ cup shaved fennel

¼ cup shaved carrot

2 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette

3 tsp crushed peanuts

LAMB

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Many locals enjoy the summer nights, armed with a picnic and their season’s pass, for the simple joy of strolling through the fragrant pathways under the stars.

We visited on a Wednesday evening with the sun still glowing low in the sky and wandered first through the Rose Garden, heavy with scent and colour. As dusk settled in, music floated through the air and the gardens slowly lit up. Coloured lights brought the garden to life with illuminated flowers and trees, and the fountains shimmered under the lights. It was peaceful, beautiful, and vibrant all at once.

The Summer Entertainment series adds a layer of charm that’s hard to beat. With performances every evening

from Wednesday to Sunday, the gardens are alive with everything from jazz and blues to folk and classical. During our visit, the Chris Millington Band had guests, young and old, dancing on the stage and surrounding lawn, some barefoot, others with ice cream cones in hand. Families sat on picnic blankets, playing cards and soaking in the music. Couples listened from the benches, kids played on the grass, and everyone enjoyed the summer night.

It’s the kind of experience that makes you slow down and savour where you are. Whether you're drawn by the glow of the illuminated gardens, the sounds of live music, or looking for somewhere different for a walk, a late-night visit to Butchart delivers.

Late-Night Garden Stroll at Butchart Gardens

You don’t have to be a tourist to enjoy Butchart Gardens in the summer. On warm evenings from Wednesday to Sunday, the gardens transform into a glowing retreat, complete with live music, twinkling lights and an unmistakable sense of magic.

If you’re planning a summer evening visit, pack a picnic, a blanket and your camera. Even if you’ve visited the gardens many times, there’s something new to notice after dark.

Butchart Gardens in the evening is a reminder that our local attractions aren’t just for tourists. So, grab your sweater, some snacks and maybe a dance partner. The garden is waiting.

THINGS TO NOTE

• Summer Hours: Wednesday through Sunday, the gardens are open until 11 p.m.; last admission is at 10 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, admission gates close at 5 p.m.

• Check the Music Schedule: Visit www.butchartgardens.com for the most current entertainment lineup.

• Bring a Picnic: There’s plenty of space for families and friends to spread out, relax and enjoy a meal on the concert lawn. Be sure to save room for a gelato.

WORDS & PHOTOS SHELLEY TICE

Building Community, One Connection at a Time

There's something magical about watching a community come together. Whether it's the laughter echoing through a seniors' residence during our monthly dominoes games or the creative energy flowing at a fundraising paint night, these moments remind us why community engagement matters so deeply.

At Island Savings, we believe that true community building happens when we roll up our sleeves and get involved. Over the years, we've had the privilege of participating in initiatives that truly showcase the heart of our community in Brentwood.

Since 2021, our monthly dominoes visits to seniors at Shoal have become one of my favourite traditions. We bring treats, share stories, and create connections that go far beyond a simple game.

Our partnership with McTavish Academy of Art exemplifies how creativity can serve a greater purpose. During our recent paint night fundraiser for the Full Cupboard, participants created beautiful artwork while expressing their unique artistic styles. Together, we raised approximately $350 for this vital community resource.

Meanwhile, our You Deserve More initiative in May for Mental Health Week showcased another dimension of community care through spontaneous acts of kindness – giving people free gas or coffee cards just to brighten their day while supporting local businesses.

From hosting a show at Music in the Park – the biggest outdoor event in Brentwood that everybody gets excited about every year – to supporting mental health initiatives at Pender Island's Crisp Festival, we've learned that community engagement goes beyond giving back. It's about building lasting relationships.

Community building flourishes when we all participate together. Whether you're joining us at Music in the Park this August, volunteering at local events, or simply spreading kindness in your daily interactions, every connection matters. Together, we can create the vibrant, caring community we all want to call home.

Kerri Roberts is a Branch Manager at the Brentwood Bay branch of Island Savings, a division of First West Credit Union. Connect with Kerri at keroberts@islandsavings.ca

Steph's Day Out

More Than Just the View –Malahat SkyWalk

For various reasons, I hadn't yet visited the Malahat SkyWalk since it first opened its doors in 2021. I’m fit and able-bodied, and had hiked up Jocelyn Hill to be at the same height to witness a similar (and spectacular) view. I didn't feel like I was missing anything.

But, it’s touted as a top tourist attraction on the Island. When welcoming my daughter Gina and her wife Allison for a visit this year, it was on their wish list ... so off we went!

And boy, I stand corrected and I am so happy to be wrong! The Malahat SkyWalk is so much more than a view – it is an experience and I was ready to buy my season pass within the first 10 minutes of entering the TreeWalk, seeing the rainforest from a completely different perspective.

Because we were en route to other Island adventures, we only spent about two hours there. I’d say that would be the bare minimum you would want to spend; you could easily double or triple that amount of time. A few of the things I loved about it:

• People who aren’t physically able to scale a mountain, tourists who are ill-prepared

for a climb (or terrified that wild Canadian animals will be out to get them), children ... anyone – literally anyone – can take the safe, 4.5% grade to see our stunning Island from this unique vantage point.

• The magic carpet ride (aka the Spiral Slide). You can go down the famed slide over and over (the current record is 50 times; can you say dizzy?). They put you on a perfect little carpet, tuck your feet in and a mere 10 seconds later you’ll find yourself having a gentle arrival at the bottom.

• They have partnered with bands, The Bubble Guy, Birds of Prey, yoga teachers and more! They are constantly adding to their repertoire to bring more value to their guests.

• The architecture of the structure, the respect for the land of the Malahat Nation, the interpretive stations,

WORDS & PHOTO STEPHANIE STAPLES

PHOTO MALAHAT SKYWALK

the gorgeous driftwood sculptures and games along the TreeWalk.

At Malahat SkyWalk, every season has different offerings and every type of weather brings a new experience – not better or worse, just different. We went first thing in the morning and that seemed to be the best time as far as crowd avoidance went. They are open seven days a week (except Christmas Day), with extended hours in the summer, and they have a complimentary shuttle from downtown Victoria! It’s an equally perfect place for a date or for a family day.

It is a self-guided educational experience and is so interesting to learn about the building of the structure (can you believe the inception was 2019 and completion was 2021?!), the lands that it is on, the wildlife that inhabit the area and more.

Three interesting ways to experience your visit...

1. Go for Fitness – walk out to the Skywalk, walk up the Skywalk, do some stretching with nature as the amazing backdrop, walk down and take Luke’s Lane through the forest back to the start; repeat.

2. Go for Zen – bring your yoga mat, find a spot on a platform and do your thing. Bring a book and relax in one of the many Adirondack chairs or maybe even the forest hammock. Bring your journal and write. Put it away; meditate; go for a mindfulness walk. Experience a forest bath. Ahhhh. Repeat.

3. Go for fun – stop at every game along the way to the Skywalk, go down the one-on-a-kind Spiral Slide (again and again), find the hidden animals in the forest, read every sign, take some amazing pictures, lie down on the net at the top, enjoy the entertainment at the bottom, bring an instrument,

have a meal then dessert, or dessert then a meal, or bring a picnic. Whatever you do, don’t rush your time there; it is a privileged place to be. If you want the sweetest deal on Vancouver Island, check the

website around Family Day in February when there is a deal you’d be a fool to pass up – get a full year membership pass for the price of just one visit! Sign me up!

Find out more at www.malahatskywalk.com.

For your locally made, convenience burger needs check out:

Fraser Orr Butcher Shop (#108 - 1931 Mt Newton Cross Road, Saanichton)

This long-time community fixture which opened in 2017 (but Fraser has been butchering on the Peninsula for many decades) handles more than just your prime cut needs. Their hot case has a rotating daily feature, but Friday is the day for burgers. Chatting with co-owner Lori Orr, she mentioned that one of the reasons for the popular grab-and-go features was to help those with a short lunch break. “People rely on it,” she says. Noting the burger inflation of some other local establishments, Lori explained that making everything inhouse helps to keep the cost exceptionally reasonable. The

price is hard to beat and so is the time commitment. If only they had a drive through window! Also check out their amazing grab-and-go salads.

Deep Cove Market (10940 West Saanich Road, North Saanich)

The Deep Cove Market has a made-to-order counter that has a lot of tasty options. The burgers are available at any time; however, Mondays they are on special (and come with bacon). It's easy to forget just how important a great bun is to a great burger, but this burger will remind you. Get them to hold the mustard if you want an experience much like an elevated Whopper. Also try the rib sandwich if you're a fan of the McRib. Fair warning: this well-loved spot can get busy around lunch time so give yourself a few extra minutes.

Burger Heaven

Outgrown the

fast-food drive-through but

still crave a nice, tasty

burger without the commitment

of the

pub or restaurant?

Don't fret: the Saanich Peninsula has plenty of options for hot grab-and-go or made-to-order burgers to satisfy your cravings. All of the burgers featured here come with all the usual fixings you would expect.

O Lugar Artisan Butchery (102-2031 Malaview Avenue West, Sidney)

Another spot with delicious daily features that are certainly more than restaurant quality. For beef burger lovers, Thursdays are the day to go. The grass-fed beef is ground in-house. If you are on a diet, save this delicious monster until cheat day. If you really need some self-care, get it with the tallow fries.

Harvest Rd (2451 Island View Road, Saanichton)

This “farm to table grill” is next to Michell’s Farm just off the highway and is open seasonally. Of all the places on this list it is the most similar to a traditional restaurant, with outdoor picnic tables available to enjoy their array of different burgers. Additional reasons to feel good about this

WORDS TED CHILD

beef burger is that it features “Michell’s Farm raised pasturefed antibiotic free fresh ground chuck,” which isn’t something you will get at the major fast food joints. The website also boasts that the meat is ethically raised and that they work with other local growers on the Peninsula. There is even an option for the kids. Don’t hesitate on this one.

With so many convenient and delicious burger options available on the Peninsula, there is really no reason to suffer the regret of traditional fast food burgers again. And while there are many other great burgers at local pubs and restaurants, sometimes time and money are a factor, but that doesn’t mean you should go without. Plus, you can feel good about keeping your burger money local.

THE HEART

OF LOCAL:

August at the Peninsula Country Market

There’s something magical about Saturday mornings in August at the Peninsula Country Market. The sun warms the grassy field at the Saanich Fairgrounds and by 9 a.m., the market is buzzing with smiling faces, music in the air, and the unbeatable scent of fresh baking, kettle corn and just-picked produce.

This summer has been one for the books – we’ve had a record number of vendors on the field each week, with over 80 local makers, growers and producers showcasing the best of what our region has to offer. From vibrant bouquets and handcrafted goods to farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, it’s clear that the community’s appetite for local has never been stronger.

August brings an abundance of in-season delights: sweet corn, field tomatoes, green beans, berries and fresh garlic, just to name a few. Whether you’re planning a backyard

BBQ, refreshing your pantry or just grabbing a snack and enjoying the live music on our main stage, there’s no shortage of reasons to spend your Saturday here.

A special highlight this summer was being selected as a Trail Partner for the BC Flavour Trails in Central Saanich. We proudly welcomed new visitors as part of this province-wide celebration of local food and farming. It was an incredible day to shine a light on our hardworking vendors and showcase why the Peninsula Country Market is such a beloved stop on the Saanich Peninsula.

We’re also excited to introduce something new this year – Food Literacy Workshops happening right at the market! Join us for two upcoming sessions on August 9 and September 13, where families can drop in for free, fun and engaging live demos led by a certified dietitian and designed to promote.

These family-friendly workshops are a great way to get kids curious about food and cooking. Follow us on social media for full details and times!

We feel so fortunate to be a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike – whether you come for the produce, the community spirit or

simply a morning out with the family. Thank you for making this season such a success.

Join us every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through to Thanksgiving – we’ll be here, rain or shine, with fresh finds and friendly faces.

Saturdays from June 7 to Oct 11 • 9am-1pm • Saanich Fairgrounds, Saanichton

Where to Sip

1. BRENTWOOD BAY VILLAGE EMPOURIUM

The Peninsula’s favourite place to eat, drink and browse for unique retail offerings. Retro ice cream cones and shakes. Licensed. 12 - 7103 West Saanich Road, Brentwood Bay www.empourium.ca

2. BEACON BREWING

Pints, flights, snacks and family friendly! Small batch craft beer brewed with local ingredients, by locals. Your guiding light to great beer. 9829 Third Street, Sidney | beaconbrewing.ca

3. VICTORIA CIDER CO.

Named People’s Choice Award Winner/BC Cider Festival 2023 & 2024. Visit our tasting room, picnic area and cider apple orchard. Flights, glass, bottle sales and picnic food available. 9635 West Saanich Road, North Saanich victoriaciderco.ca

Where to Eat

4. NORTH SAANICH FARM MARKET

Fresh produce, seafood, baking, wine, artisans, flowers and Live Music. Saturdays 9:30am - 12pm. 10990 W Saanich Rd, North Saanich northsaanichfarmmarket.ca

5. MICHELL’S FARM MARKET

Farm-fresh veggies, pasture raised beef, fresh and frozen berries, Harvest Rd farm-to-table grill and Michell Valley Plants! Market open daily seven days a week. 2451 Island View Road, Saanichton | michellsfarm.com

6. SEA CIDER FARM & CIDERHOUSE

Sip award-winning ciders – including non-alcoholic options – on our patio with ocean and orchard views. Pair your flight with local bites from our new menu. Family- and pet-friendly, open daily 11:30–5:30. 2487 Mt. St. Michael Rd, Saanichton seacider.ca

7. STONEHOUSE RESTAURANT & PUB

Nestled in a private setting at Canoe Cove Marina, minutes from Swartz Bay. Join us on the patio this Summer for Good Food – Good People – Good Times! 2215 Canoe Cove Rd, North Saanich stonehousepub.ca

Where to Play

8. ARDMORE GOLF COURSE

A beautiful, relaxed 9-hole golf course. Restaurant pub open daily. 930 Ardmore Dr, North Saanich ardmoregolfcourse.com

9. HERITAGE ACRES

Experience early farming life on the Saanich Peninsula. Children’s Day Aug. 9; Fall Fair Sept. 20, 21, 9am to 4pm. 7321 Lochside Drive, Saanichton heritageacresbc.com

10. SIDNEY MUSEUM

Explore local settler and SÁNEĆ history at the Sidney Museum! This summer, visit our travelling exhibit – Health in Space: Daring to Explore (May - Nov.). Open every day from 10am - 4pm. 2423 Beacon Ave, lower level, Sidney sidneymuseum.ca

11. PACIFICA PADDLE SPORTS

Kayak, SUP and canoe rentals, tours, lessons & sales. Kayak Tour options: Sunset & Fireworks, Glow, 2 or 3 hour Gulf Islands, or Relaxing Brentwood Tour. pacificapaddle.com

789 Saunders Lane, Brentwood Bay and Canoe Cove Marina

12. SHAW CENTRE FOR THE SALISH SEA

Aquarium and Learning Centre. Discover Your Nature. 9811 Seaport Place, Sidney salishseacentre.org | @salishseacentre

13. PANORAMA RECREATION’S FREE PLAY IN THE PARK!

Join Panorama for a summer full of FREE fun around the Peninsula! Interactive play, group games and a 50-foot inflatable obstacle course. Tuesdays: Panorama Recreation, 1885 Forest Park Dr, North Saanich; Wednesdays: Tulista Park, 9565 Fifth St, Sidney; Thursdays, July: HEL,HILE Park, 7130 West Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay; Thursdays, August: Centennial Park, 7526 Wallace Dr, Saanichton. panoramarecreation.ca

14. COUNTRY BEE HONEY FARM

Enjoy a self-guided tour of the farm. Meet the animals, see the bees, enjoy acres of sunflowers and the picnic area! 6440 W. Saanich Rd, Saanichton countrybeehoney.ca

Caring for the Land: Food Systems & Sustainability

Matthew Kyriakides works in agrology – a science-based practice that supports agriculture and environmental protection – and is completing a PhD on farming techniques and soil restoration.

JESSE HOLTH

JANIS JEAN

We spoke about food security, bringing communities together, and the importance of long-term stewardship.

What is your background? How did you first get interested in this field of study?

I am a Professional Agrologist with over a decade of experience in agriculture and forestry, exploring the intersections of agriculture, land stewardship, food security and community collaboration. My work has taken me to Iceland, Mexico, the Netherlands and across Canada, from Nova Scotia to Haida Gwaii.

I am available for consulting projects while completing my PhD with the Ecogastronomy Research Group at the University of Victoria, where I study the trade-offs between soil health restoration and viable farming methods. I also serve on the Board of Directors for

FarmFolk CityFolk, a provincial charitable non-profit advancing sustainable food systems.

My passion began during a community soil science class at the UBC Farm in 2012. Though I wasn’t raised on a farm, I come from a long line of farmers in South Africa, and working with the land awakened a seed in me I never knew existed.

You previously conducted research at the Sandown Centre for Regenerative Agriculture – an old horseracing track that has been turned into a community farm. What kind of work were you doing there?

I worked for nearly four years as the Stewardship Manager at the Sandown Centre, a community farm on W̱SÍḴEM territory in North Saanich. This agricultural reclamation project brings together diverse community members

and provides land access for new farmers. While there, I supported wetland, forest and meadow restoration, carried out fieldwork for my PhD, led tours and workshops, and helped with various on-site initiatives. It was a perfect opportunity to conduct research while being part of a vibrant land-based community project.

People have historically drained wetlands, cleared forests and degraded the environment in order to farm. How can we make agriculture more sustainable?

That is a huge question! We need to start by recognizing the inherent trade-offs in every farming decision, especially maintaining financial viability in a difficult and often unpredictable industry. Many promising initiatives locally and globally, such as Young Agrarians and the South Island Farmers Institute, are working

to address these issues. I strive to facilitate food systems that balance care for the land, care for our communities, and care for the farmers who do the work. You are a Professional Agrologist – can you explain what that means?

This is a registered professional designation maintained by the BC Institute of Agrologists in accordance with the Professional Governance Act. As a Professional Agrologist, I am qualified to consult with and sign off on projects within my declared practice areas, which are land conservation and management, land restoration and reclamation, and crop production and management. While in Iceland, you worked on a government project investigating soil restoration and tree repopulation. What were some of the challenges and successes?

WORDS

PHOTO

I was fortunate to intern with the Icelandic Forestry Service on the links between soil restoration and reforestation. Iceland has suffered extensive degradation and deforestation over the past 1,200 years and is now pursuing an ambitious plan to increase tree cover to 12% by 2100. I worked three days a week with the forestry field crew and spent the remaining days conducting independent research. This combination provided a grounded understanding of the challenges as well as the potential for reforestation work, which I was grateful to contribute to directly.

You’ve lived on the Peninsula for four years now – what is special about this area from an ecological point of view?

The Saanich Peninsula is an incredibly special place with exemplary models of longterm sustainable food systems. The fragmented Garry oak ecosystems we see today were once part of a vast complex of Douglas fir forests and Garry oak meadows stewarded over thousands of years by the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Xʷsepsəm/Esquimalt) and W̱SÁNEĆ nations. These ecosystems provided kwetlal/ ḰȽO,EL (camas in Lək̓ʷəŋən and SENĆOŦEN) from the meadows, various berries, and a rich variety of foods from the shoreline and waters. While much has been disrupted, there remains significant potential to integrate careful stewardship of these vulnerable ecosystems into our land-use decisions.

You spoke about ecosystem restoration – how does this work? How can we take better care of the land and provide stewardship for the future?

Many land and water ecosystems on the Peninsula have been heavily impacted by urbanization, agriculture and industry. While we can’t dial back the clock to a time before colonization, we can attempt to restore health by growing native plants and healing soils and waters everywhere – from roadsides and front yards to farm fields and parklands. Great initiatives like Peninsula Streams and

Shorelines, Habitat Acquisition Trust, Satinflower Nurseries, PEPAKEṈ HÁUTW̱ , and the W̱S͸ḴEM Ivy Project are doing this work on the Peninsula. Each of us can play a role by supporting or volunteering with these inspiring local organizations.

We need to prepare ourselves for a changing climate and build resilient food systems here on the Island – what steps can we take as individuals and as a community?

I believe we have a long way to go before we can call ourselves food secure on the Peninsula. Much of our food supply depends on global markets, which offer year-round variety but leave us vulnerable to disruptions, as recent trade conflicts have shown. There’s no silver bullet, but I am drawn to these key areas:

1. Shift our perspective on land from a commodity for profit to a shared trust, creating longterm stewardship rights and responsibilities for committed communities.

2. Support the farmers already growing in our community to care for the land and produce food in a way that ensures their livelihood.

3. Reduce access barriers for new growers. Haliburton Community Farm, the Sandown Centre and the CRD’s Regional Foodlands Access Service are excellent initiatives which are bringing newer farmers into the community.

4. Encourage cooperative business structures, land ownership and marketing channels.

5. Weave agriculture and conservation together to ensure long-term agricultural viability.

6. Promote education, training and connection opportunities for all ages.

7. Ensure that all community members have access to nutritious and appropriate food in ways that promote dignity and respect.

Introduced in 2007, Contempo continues to be beloved for its pierced and interlocking scrolls that make these pieces unmistakably “Brighton.”

Mining the artistic influences of historic silver jewelry and architecture – our designer interpreted them in a contemporary, yet timeless way.

Introduced in 2007, Contempo continues to be beloved for its pierced and interlocking scrolls that make these pieces unmistakably “Brighton.” Mining the artistic influences of historic silver jewelry and architecture –our designer interpreted them in a contemporary, yet timeless way.

Stephen Postings

Inez Louden Lisa Redding

Wendy Herrick

Patrick Achtzner

Mariann Abram Niels Baartman

Ross Casey

World Ocean Day and Ocean Week Victoria are behind us – one day, one week, that shines a spotlight on the marine environment and encourages us to learn more about the ocean and our connection to it. The hope – a better understanding and a stronger connection will inspire caring and conservation.

Summer weather, summer tides and summer vacations are good motivators to keep the ocean learning going and meet your intertidal neighbours. To get the most out of exploring the world between the tides and do it respectfully, follow these tips.

CHECK TIDES

As a general rule, low tides happen during daylight hours in spring and summer, and over night in winter. Now is the time and to make the most of your access to low tide world, visit www.tides.gc.ca

TREAD LIGHTLY

Plant your feet carefully for two reasons. One, your own safety – rocks and algae are slippery. And two, to minimize damage to animals and their habitats.

PAUSE, BE STILL, GO SLOW

At low tide animals need to blend in and hide. In a

tidepool, that means they stop moving as you approach. Do your best impression of a hunting heron. If YOU stay still, you just may witness when they begin to move again; you’ll miss that opportunity if you go too fast. Slowing down also encourages looking in cracks and crevices, other safe spaces for animals.

LIFT, LOOK, LOWER

Use this alliteration as a guide to always put rocks back where, and how, you found them. Each rock is a habitat unto itself and different animals are adapted to live on or under; rocks provide shade and underneath stays wet.

BE GENTLE

Observe, and leave, animals where they are. Some are adapted to secure tightly to rocks; this prevents drying out and predation. When it comes to fish, best practice is no touching. They have a protective coating over their scales we shouldn’t disrupt.

LOOK UP, LOOK OUT

After squatting and stooping to look among the rocks and in tidepools, my aging back appreciates a good stretch. I take the opportunity to do that

The Intertidal Zone Discover Our Shoreline Neighbours

frequently; it allows me to spot other animals that inhabit the water and sky – eagles, shore birds, seals and whales can be missed if you always have your head down.

IDENTIFY YOUR FINDS

There are many easy-touse field guides to help you identify and learn more about your finds. Laminated ID cards are perfect for withstanding inclement weather or a drop in a tide pool.

During May’s extreme low tides, I explored Glass Beach, a location I’ve visited countless times. I discovered a new-tome species and a field guide identified red sea buttons, a type of social sea squirt.

Your photos can be uploaded to identification apps. iNaturalist is a useful tool to record what you find and provides help with identification.

PARK MANTRAS

“Leave no trace” and “pack it in, pack it out” are longtime mantras of park systems worldwide. A newer saying goes beyond being responsible for your own garbage and impact and encourages removing any trash you encounter — “take three for the sea.” Take only trash. Leave shells and other marine-related bits on the beach. Some are used by other animals and they also break down and return compounds back into the ecosystem.

Happy exploring!

WORDS & PHOTO TINA KELLY

2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney | 250-656-0275 |

Platinum-certified, JUNO and CCMA Award-winning country star Jess Moskaluke is bringing her coast-to-coast tour to Sidney. With a mix of fan favourites and fresh material, the Life For Me Tour is a celebration of artistry, authenticity, and the stories that resonate far beyond the stage.

Pocket Symphonies

cello ‘Pocket’ ensembles offer an opportunity to bring a fresh beloved work such as Beethoven’s 5th Symphony.

violin and Sungyong Lim, and new take on a much

The cornerstone classical masterpiece is probably one of the mo

most well-known pieces

of all time and this ‘pocket’ version by Carl Burchard for one nds, violin and cello leaves nothing out in terms of fullness and exuberance. Also, on the programme is the Hebrides Overture by Mendelssohn and selection of Brahms Hungarian Dances. The quartet will round out the programme with other works that the splendid and rich sound combination of strings and piano.

Davis is a celebrated American blues musician, work seamlessly blends roots, folk, rock, rap, spoken word, and self

a celebrate

ician, actor, and storyteller whose world music. A taught guitarist, banjoist, harmonica player (and even didgeridoo enthusiast), he draws inspiration from the Southern heritage of his grandparents and theatrical upbringing as the only son of actors Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis.

Dee

for an unforgettable evening with Peter Oldring and Pat Kelly (CBC Radio’s This is That) as they reunite with Carolyn Taylor (Baroness von Sketch Show). These comedy powerhouses come together for the first time since their early days at The Second City to deliver a delightfully absurd and wildly entertaining variety show.

Series

Series Series Presenter Presenter

lineup of music, theatre, dance, and comedy that spans genres, cultures, and continents. From chart-topping country stars to soul-stirring classical ensembles,

boundary-pushing theatre to side-splitting comedy, each show is a unique moment to remember. Welcome to a season of artistry, connection, and inspiration—only at the Mary Winspear Centre.

August

September

Jess Moskaluke - September 17 Pocket

Night of

- October 7

Guy Davis - October 8 A Perfectly Reasonable Night of Comedy - October 11 Vacant Lot - October 18

Sexsmith - November 4

Benise & Pavlo - November 7

Aerialists - November 12

- October 11

Jeremy Dutcher - November 19

The Celtic Tenors - December 1

George Canyon & Aaron Pritchett - December 23

George Canyon & Aaron Pritchett - December 23

I Don’t Belong Here - January 21

The Fretless - January 22

Monthly Meetings

From the Kitchen

Complementary COMBINATIONS

Whenever I make this meal, I’m always amazed at how the flavours complement each other so fabulously.

WORDS JOAN SAUNDERS

PHOTOS SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

It shouldn’t really be a surprise, as this dish is a take on Middle Eastern food; the salty olives and feta interact with the freshness of the cherry tomatoes and cucumber and it’s no wonder that everything plays so well together. If you buy some gorgeous local veggies or pick them fresh from your garden, it all tastes even better.

Flank steak used to be a cheap and cheerful protein, but it’s not as inexpensive as it used to be. You do need to marinate it for a good length of time, however, as this adds flavour and tenderizes the meat. Marinating also helps the steak retain moisture, which results in a juicier final product.

The sweet potato fries are definitely an option, as they’re not a traditional addition, but they work well with the elements in this bowl. What you can do is put everything out and have people create their own glorious combination of tastiness, or you can assemble them for your guests. If you want to change any of the fixings, go ahead. You could use baby kale or spinach instead of arugula, but I do like its peppery flavour. Not keen on quinoa? Leave it out; no worries.

Whatever you choose, I’m sure that there will be many compliments on this savoury yet simple summertime meal.

REALLY GREAT FLANK STEAK MARINADE

1/3 cup soy sauce

½ cup olive oil

2 tbsp honey

2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar

1/3 small onion, minced

3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tbsp)

2 tbsp green onions, minced

1 tbsp mix of fresh thyme and rosemary

½ tsp pepper

½ tsp salt

pinch red pepper flakes

2 lb flank steak

Add all ingredients, except steak, to large mixing bowl. Mix together until well combined.

Pierce flank steak all over with a fork, then place in large Ziploc bag. Pour in marinade; turn steak around several times to make sure it’s coated thoroughly with marinade. Or, you can add the steak to the bowl, turn it in

SWEET POTATO OVEN FRIES

3 sweet potatoes, cut into thin wedges

2 tbsp olive oil

Kosher salt and ground pepper

Preheat oven to 400°. On a rimmed baking sheet, toss the sweet potatoes with the olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. Arrange wedges in a single layer; bake for 15 minutes. Then flip and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes more, or until wedges are cooked through and crispy (to personal taste).

bowl a few times to ensure it’s covered in marinade, then cover with plastic wrap. Marinate steak in fridge for 4-12 hours.

Remove from fridge for about 30 minutes before grilling. Take steak out of the marinade. Discard marinade (it has bacteria from the raw meat).

Preheat barbecue grill for medium-high heat (about 400°). Spray grill with cooking oil spray.

When hot, put flank steak on grill. Grill first side for 1 minute to sear. Then flip steak and grill for another minute on the other side.

Everyone has their own way of grilling, but for flank steak I continue cooking for 3-4 minutes per side to desired doneness, flipping every minute for even cooking. Don’t use a fork to flip the steak, but rather tongs; you don’t want juices to escape.

Flank steak is best when it’s cooked to medium rare to medium. Measure with a thermometer. Remove from heat when it’s 125° for rare, 130° for medium rare and 140° for medium. The temperature will rise further when the meat is resting.

Remove the steak to a cutting board and cover it with foil to rest for 5-10 minutes.

Thinly slice against the grain to serve.

SUMMER STEAK BOWLS (SERVES 4)

2 cups cooked quinoa

2 cups arugula

1 ½ cups halved cherry tomatoes

1 cucumber, chopped into chunks

½ cup pitted olives (or more)

2 avocadoes, pitted, peeled and sliced about a cup (or more) of feta cheese, chopped into chunks or crumbled

tzatziki (purchased or make your own)

roasted red pepper hummus (or flavour of your choice)

You can put all of the ingredients out and have people assemble their own bowls, or you can assemble them for each guest. To assemble: add the quinoa, arugula, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, avocado, feta, sweet potato fries and sliced steak to the bowls. Finish with dollops of tzatziki and hummus.

Grants and Gifts Help Grow a Better Community

This year, in addition to $34,100 in grants from our endowment income, we also disbursed $23,000 in donordirected gifts—funds that donors asked us to flow through to their chosen local non-profit.

As a registered charity, we can issue tax receipts, and work with donors to support causes that we all care about—growing a better community for all of us.

See all our 2025 recipients: sp-cf.ca/2025-recipients/

YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR GIFT • YOUR LEGACY

Endowment income of $34,100 was granted to 12 community charities and non-profits in health and social services; arts and culture; education; conservation; and recreation.

Literacy Grants of $3,800 was awarded to 2 literacy-focused charities.

Thanks to 4 donors $23,000 was directed as gifts to 3 local non-profits.

Sea glass aficionado Geraldine Bruckel has been collecting glass from the beaches of Sidney for as long as she’s lived on the Island. What others walk by or collect for glass jars, Geraldine has turned into beautiful 2D and 3D works of art.

Geraldine’s story is as interesting as her gazebo and studio filled with paintings, drawings and glassworks resembling life. She was born in Indonesia, with mixed Indonesian and Dutch heritage. She says her first few years growing up were devasted by war, being separated from her family, and ultimately ending up on a boat for 28 days to travel to Holland. Reunited with her family before the trip, she says that where they lived in the 50s was “one family in one room.” She met her husband Willem when she was 15 and he was 18. After he immigrated to Canada, her family was sponsored to move to Michigan. Geraldine and Willem married in Michigan

when she was 20 and then moved to Vancouver in 1959 where they settled down and had two daughters. The family fostered children for years and adopted one boy “so he didn’t have to go back to the orphanage.”

For three years the family lived in Malaysia for Willem’s work, where Geraldine did some modelling and went to art school for copper tooling and batik. She never had any formal training in painting or glass work, saying she only had “one real lesson” many years ago. Back in Canada, Geraldine was a nursing assistant for 20 years at the Aberdeen hospital in Victoria. There she “drew pictures on ice cream lids for residents” and enjoyed doing a range of artwork.

In 1992, Geraldine and her husband bought their house in Sidney where she continues to live and create. Her home, studio and gazebo are a testament to her skill and hard work. The gazebo has shelves alive with a brown

SEASIDE

Meet Your Neighbours

Sidsauris and Sea Glass Art

It can take decades for the perfect piece of sea glass to turn from jagged litter into smooth frosted edges that make it worth picking up.

sea glass horse, clear glass airplane, mermaids and the famous Sidsauris. Made of “white and blue ceramic all glued together” delicately over months, this creature has a story and life of its own.

One day a woman named Laura and her son were visiting the grandmother at her home on Towner Park Road. The son discovered a large seahorse that they thought was dead. To see it better, Laura poured seawater on the little creature. It woke up and swam away, but not before they saw it had a hump and long tail. Laura told her float plane pilot friend about the creature and he shared that one day he “noticed a big snakelike monster swimming next to his float plane at the same speed as the plane.” This story inspired the creation of “Sidsauris the happy Sidney baby sea glass dragon.”

In Geraldine’s studio is two of her other great loves – Elvis and Emily Carr. A life-sized painting of Elvis can be found at the back of the studio with

gold embellishments, along with an Elvis-themed guitar Geraldine found on the side of the road and fixed up. She says “I like to do big paintings” and “my favourite is acrylic –palette knife.” The evidence of this are more pieces honouring Elvis, and walls covered in Emily Carr paintings. Some are realistic copies of the latter’s originals, but Geraldine also says “I dream up ideas.”

Her first glass pieces of 2D and 3D eagles can also be found in her studio. She creates small drawings, cards, art and glassworks big and small. Currently working on several pieces, Geraldine also receives custom orders and loves to make other people’s ideas come to life. She has been featured on CTV, won awards and has provided art classes to kids and at the Shoal Centre. Now 85, Geraldine continues to collect glass to preserve these pieces of time by creating works of art that truly embody Sidney and the Saanich Peninsula.

bruckelg@gmail.com

WORDS JAMILA DOUHAIBI

PHOTO JANIS JEAN

Participating businesses in downtown Sidney are now accepting Sidney by the Sea Gift Cards!

Gift cards make for a fantastic gift and can be purchased locally at the Sidney Information Centre at 2281 Beacon Avenue or online for direct mailing.

This program is managed and supported by the Sidney Business Improvement Area Society (Sidney BIA).

hello@exploresidney.ca

PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES

10 Acres at the Pier

10 Acres Cafe

3rd Street Cafe

Atticus Avenue B Home Decor

Beacon Landing Liquor & More

Bodacious Lifestyles Boutique

Bosley's - Sidney

Buddies Toys

Butik Naturals

C.S. Chan Wontons + Dumplings

Cameron Rose Gifts

Chef on the Run Connections Consignment

Cottons and Blues

Davidson Chambers

Deco De Mode

Departures Travel

DGD Gifts

Ecotopia Naturals

El Dorado

Far & Away Adventures

Fish on Fifth

Flush Bathroom & Travel Essentials

Good Decade Fabrics + Heirloom Gifts

Hansell & Halkett Vintage Home Decor

Haven Spa

Home Hardware - Sidney House of Lily Koi

iSpa Wellness

Jacks on the Water

J Kitchen

Kiddin' Around

La Boutique

Lolly Gobble - Home Hardware

Mary Winspear Centre

Miss Bliss Boutique

Moden

Moden Essentials

Moden Mens

Modern Massage Co

Muffet & Louisa

Nest & Nook

One Stop Furniture

Peninsula Lifetime Eyecare Centre

Provenance Fine Things

Pure Glow Laser

Quince Cafe

Refire Kitchen

Sacred Somatics

Salvador Davis & Co

Sapodilla's Smoothie and Juice Bar

Seawards Souvenir & Apparel

Shai Thompson Image Consulting

Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea

Sidney Information Centre

Sidney Museum

Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa

Sidney Scones

Simply Pure Ice & Water

Skin by Angela

Small Gods Brewing Co

Smør Scandinavian Bakery

Tanner's Books

The Beauty House

The Children's Bookshop

The Dancing Orchid

The Farmer's Daughter

The Fickle Fig

The Five & Dime Diner

The Shop

The Surly Mermaid

Tivoli Gallery

Victoria Distillers

Waterlily Shoes

SATURDAY

AUGUST 16

SALES THROUGHOUT SIDNEY

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Impressive clinical trials have shown the benefit of increasing omega-3 consumption in the diet as well as supplementing in the prevention and treatment of heart disease related risks and symptoms. Fish oils shine in their ability to reduce elevated triglycerides by 30 to 40% are significantly with up to 4 grams of omega-3 EPA and DHA.

Given how grey the winter months are here on Vancouver Island, many of us make it our priority to get out and enjoy the sunshine while it’s here, soaking up that vitamin D and enjoying our beaches, lakes and rivers. But after months of soaking up the sunshine, your skin might be feeling the effects, even with careful SPF use. The combination of UV rays, heat, salt water and chlorine can leave skin dry, dull or uneven. The good news is our skin is remarkably resilient, and with a little extra care, we can help it recover and restore its glow and vitality.

HYDRATE!

While I hope you kept this up all summer long, the first step in repairing sun-stressed skin is replenishing moisture. Sun exposure and outdoor elements can dehydrate your skin’s outer layers, making fine lines and rough patches more noticeable. Drink plenty of water and enjoy hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon and citrus fruits (orange, grapefruit, lime, lemon, pomello) to help restore your body’s water balance. Try switching to a richer moisturizer or add a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera or glycerin.

SKIN SOOTHING TREATMENTS

If you’re dealing with lingering redness or sensitivity, focus on calming the inflammation. Aloe vera, chamomile or oatmeal can help reduce irritation and support your skin’s barrier. Steer clear of harsh exfoliants until your skin has settled.

GENTLE EXFOLIATION

Summer often leads to a buildup of dead skin cells, leaving skin looking dull. Once your skin feels comfortable (not sunburned or irritated), introduce gentle exfoliation one to two times a week.

REPAIR WITH ANTIOXIDANTS

Sun exposure increases free radical damage, which accelerates signs of aging. Post-summer is a great time to add antioxidantrich serums or creams to your routine. Look for ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea extract or resveratrol. These can help counteract oxidative stress, encourage collagen production, and promote firmer, healthier skin.

Supporting Your Skin After a Summer of Sun Exposure

KEEP USING SPF

Just because summer is over, it doesn’t mean you can skip sunscreen. UVA rays, which contribute to aging, are present year-round. Continue to use a sunscreen daily (yes even on cloudy days) to protect your skin.

SKIN-LOVING SUPPLEMENTS

Support your skin from within with these skin-friendly supplements. Vitamin C boosts collagen production and helps repair tissue. Vitamin E works

with vitamin C to protect and soothe skin. Omega-3s (fish or algae oil) reduce inflammation and support the skin’s lipid barrier. Zinc supports the body’s healing process and reduces inflammation. Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant that may help combat sun damage. Collagen Peptides help to restore skin elasticity. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

A little extra TLC goes a long way for our body’s largest organ. Here’s to healthy skin!

As global events unfold and investment markets change rapidly, it's common to wonder if your past financial decisions are going to continue to provide the returns you need. A second opinion can give you a new perspective and provide clarity.

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For anyone that would be a terrifying experience, but for a 13-year-old, it’s an enormous accomplishment.

Last year I met with Chase Varnes at his home in Central Saanich to discuss his music and hopes for the future. When he appeared on stage at AGT in an episode that aired last month, he repeated what he said to me in 2024, that “the dream is to play on a world stage and make people happy.” And that dream is starting to come true as he wowed the judges and audience. One of the four judges – Simon Cowell – stopped Chase as he started singing his original, Face to Face, and asked him to play something else from his repertoire. Chase immediately started playing again and did a beautiful cover of Ed Sheeran’s Life Goes On, as if

he wasn’t interrupted. When Chase finished his audition, he received a standing ovation of cheers and yesses from three of the four judges.

It's still hard to believe that when I spoke with Chase last year he said “I could not hold a note,” when he was younger. Listening to the beautiful songs he performed at his home and for the audience at AGT, it seems like he was born with a guitar and microphone in hand.

Back home after his AGT appearance, Chase says that the experience was nothing like he expected and was a “one-in-a-million” opportunity. Seeing how a big-scale show in LA was produced was also an experience he couldn’t have expected, and he says that “it wasn’t like a normal performance” because he

Chase’s Got Talent

If you’ve ever seen America’s Got Talent (AGT), you know that it’s an intense show where a variety of artists come on to a highly lit stage and are faced with four judges who sit at a panel with giant “X’s” on the front.

was waiting for the criticism from the judges. He compares it to playing in front of over 18,000 people at a Canucks game and says that the AGT performance with an audience of about 3,000 was completely different because of the extra pressure. But apart from his time on stage, Chase says that he made new friends and got to see so much talent in the other performers while part of the show.

Chase has since made another trip to the States when he traveled to Austin, Texas. His producer, Mike Meadows, is based in Austin and Chase had the opportunity to co-write with several Austin artists and record some new work in Willie Nelson’s old studio. But Saanich Peninsula locals can still hear Chase live at the

Sidney market throughout the rest of the summer, and Sunfest Country Music Festival goers were able to see him on stage at the end of July.

Even after his exceptional year, Chase says that he’s “still a kid” and knows that he’s “only 13 for so long.” He still plays sports, recently taking up golfing, and continues to practise and improve on the drums, guitar and vocals.

What’s next? Chase’s first two ticketed shows will take place in Calgary in October. He’s also waiting for confirmation for his next appearance on America’s Got Talent.

Find out more about upcoming shows and listen to Chase’s music at www.chasevarnes.com.

WORDS JAMILA DOUHAIBI

PHOTO NBC/TRAE PATTON

SEASIDE STORIES

Off the Land

Moonlight Farms: Head Over Heels at Harvest

They met. It was a case of hearts and harvest. And they said to one another “Lett-uce start a farm!”

Michael Tennant and Christine Brennenstuhl, owners of Moonlight Farms, radiate enthusiasm not only towards each other but also about growing food, working the land, and bringing harvest to the community.

“I was working at Mason Street Farm when one day Michael came by and half eagerly, half jokingly asked: ‘Who wants to start a farm?’, " shares Christine. “I’d been wanting this for years and arranged a meetup at his farm. Very quickly, we realized we not only wanted to farm together but to also fall in love and be life partners.”

Their thriving two-and-a-halfacre farm on West Saanich Road offers a diversity of fresh quality vegetables, which are marketed through a farm box program running from May to October, at local markets and to a variety of local restaurants.

“We are a small-scale organic farm,” says Michael. “We have 40 different crops including many kinds of salad greens, beets, carrots, spinach, turnips, different legumes, eggplant, tomatoes, melon, cucumbers, as well as four to five varieties of peppers.”

Adds Christine: “We planted 2,000 strawberry plants this season and also have blackberries, watermelon, cantaloupe, ground cherry, apples and grapes.”

The farming duo has always had a keen interest in farming.

“I grew up outside of Guelph in a rural area of Ontario and I always had my own veggie garden,” says Christine. “I went to Guelph University for my Bachelor of Social Sciences.

After I graduated, I knew I wanted to be a farmer. I came here in 2012 because the longest growing season is in B.C”.

WORDS JO BARNES

PHOTOS SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

While Michael didn’t grow up on a farm, he talks about other influences that inspired him to pursue farming. “My father was an avid gardener. My uncle and aunt had a number of wineries in the Okanagan. I would visit them in the summer and help out.”

A love of farming and a desire to be part of growing food for the local community are key motivators for these two farmers. “It’s really important to support local organic farms. It benefits the local economy,” comments Michael. Christine adds: “It’s important to know who is growing your food. We have strong farming community connections and we know our customers well.”

Each farmer brings a different set of work experiences to the table. Michael was the general manager at 10 Acres Farm in North Saanich, and Christine did a soil apprenticeship program and worked with Victoria farm cooperatives, most recently, running the Mason Street City Farm. They share the common experience of farming outside of Canada.

style of organic farmer Jean Martin Fortier using sustainable practices,” says Michael. “We use low-till techniques. For instance, we have a BCS walkbehind tractor which minimizes soil compaction.”

Plants are propagated in the three onsite greenhouses. Eventually they are transplanted by hand to permanently raised garden beds. The work of seeding, maintaining, harvesting and distributing the produce to 70 customers who are on the farm box program all takes time, skill and energy. Michael and Christine are grateful for their field hands Stacy, Ellie and Emmalou who assist with the workload. “We have three parttime workers,” says Michael. “One is our market manager and two are field farm hands. They’re all skilled and do great work.”

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“After I graduated from Concordia University where I received my Bachelor of Commerce degree, I travelled around the world. I worked on tropical fruit farms in Australia and also in southeast Asia and have farmed in Guatemala and Honduras,” relates Michael.

“I volunteered with WWOOF (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms) for eight to nine years,” shares Christine. “I would do farming at tropical farms in the winter and then do summer farming in Central America.”

The farming approach here is based on principles of sustainability including crop rotation, organic composting, biodiversity and low-impact techniques. “We farm in the

In their journey to build a successful farming operation, the couple has come to learn and value each other’s personal skills and approaches. “Michael came to this with so much enthusiasm. Working with machinery and business skills –these are things that I struggle with but Michael has in spades,” relates Christine.

“Christine has so many skills that I don’t have,” adds Michael. “She’s really great at growing salad greens. I trust her. If I am building or repairing something, I know she’ll make sure that everything at the farm runs smoothly. She’s the best!”

For these two farming entrepreneurs, the journey of starting a farm is an opportunity to use their unique abilities to grow food for the community. It’s hard work and takes dedication, but for them, it’s also a romaine-tic experience that remains un-beet-able!

www.moonlightfarms.ca

Venita Ross Leaves a Lasting Gift to Her Community

When Lisa and Ian Banfield moved into their Saanichton home in 1997, they were greeted by a neighbour with a friendship cake. That neighbour was Venita Ross, a kind and independent woman who became a lifelong friend.

Originally from Alberta, Venita and her husband John moved to Vancouver Island for John’s health. They built their home in Saanichton on a property they called Venross Place. After John passed away, Venita stayed, tended her garden, and continued living life her way.

“She was incredibly thoughtful, private, and very funny,” Lisa

“Venita’s gift was not about recognition. It was about community and compassion.”

and Ian recall. “She never asked for help and always knew where every tool was. She was like family to us.”

Venita quietly supported many causes over the years, including BC Cancer, Saanich Peninsula Hospital, Heart and Stroke, BC Children’s Hospital, and others. She often spoke of Saanich Peninsula Hospital as a little jewel and remained grateful for the care John received there in the mid-90s.

“She called SPH a little jewel. She believed in helping others receive the same care she and John did.”

In 2023, as her own health declined, Venita made one final act of generosity. With no surviving family, she asked the Banfields to carry out her estate plans, including a legacy gift to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation.

“She did not want praise. She just wanted others to

receive the same level of care,” Ian says.

Venita’s legacy will help ensure that future patients receive compassionate care close to home. Her story is a quiet reminder of the impact one person can have on an entire community.

Would you like to learn more about how a legacy gift can support healthcare on the Saanich Peninsula?

Visit our Legacy Giving page at sphf.ca or contact our team at 250-656-2948 to start the conversation. Every gift, large or small, can make a lasting difference in our community.

Venita Ross, generous Legacy donor

Ian and Lisa Banfield hold photos of Venita and her husband John.

Celebrations of Life: A Personal Approach to Honouring Your Loved One

WORDS SHERRIN GRIFFIN, SIDNEY SENIOR CARE

As my Mom and I plan my Dad’s Celebration of Life, we’ve been wondering about the “proper protocol” for these events. And with very little experience of attending celebrations of life, let alone planning one for a dear family member, we both want to “do the right thing” and honour Dad in the best possible way. But what is “the right way?” Are there specific guidelines to follow when remembering a loved one?

Back when I was a child growing up in the 60s and 70s, I only remember the term “funerals” being used, and I recall the events being traditional, somber affairs often dependent on the timing of the burial (cremation wasn’t as popular back then). They were typically held at a funeral home or church and usually involved a final viewing, a formal service (often religious), and a committal service (at the burial site).

Although there doesn’t seem to be one specific person or occasion that coined the term Celebration of Life (COL), there was a bit of a cultural shift in the late 20th century away from the melancholy, rigid and traditional themes of loss and grief associated with funerals towards

As far as the venue is concerned, COLs can be held at any location really, whether that be at a family home, community centre, park etc. Regarding appropriate attire, while black used to be considered the only respectful colour to wear to a funeral, it is not required for a celebration of life. Many families encourage guests to wear colours that were meaningful to the deceased or that inspire a sense of celebration.

a more positive, personalized and uplifting approach, emphasizing the deceased person’s life, rather than death. The emphasis on celebrating a life well lived, including the personality, character traits and achievements of the deceased, rather than simply mourning a death, has likely been influenced by other cultural traditions including Irish wakes that blend mourning with celebration in a reflective and respectful manner of remembrance.

While funerals are usually held shortly after death, celebrations of life give families the opportunity to pause and grieve on their own timeline, with the flexibility to wait until they feel ready or perhaps to choose a time that has significance. With cremation becoming more acceptable and commonplace these days, COLs can be planned at any time, whether that be days, weeks or even many months afterwards. In our case, my Mother wasn’t ready emotionally to address my Dad’s service until almost a full year had passed; choosing to hold the event on the oneyear anniversary of his passing or, as my Mom called it, “Ed’s heavenly birthday.”

A celebration of life typically has a more flexible itinerary than a traditional funeral. There certainly should be a greeting and acknowledgement of the occasion from a family member or friend close to the person who has died. The speaker(s) should be able to share stories and memories that capture the

The Golden Years

essence of the person who has passed, with opportunity for others to speak and share. There may be food and drink offered, perhaps with a respectful toast to the deceased person. In our case, we are planning to have a group toast to my Dad with his favourite brandy – Remy Martin –in his honour.

Ultimately, the choice between a funeral and a celebration of life depends on the deceased individual's wishes, the family's preferences, religious affiliations, and cultural context. Some families choose to have both, with a smaller, more private funeral followed by a larger celebration of life. Whatever you choose to do, as long as the occasion is filled with light, love and respect, you will do right by your loved one.

• Personal “life themes” financial/tax planning

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Walk Through a Home with Chace Whitson

A Coastal Jewel of Modern Elegance in Central Saanich

There’s something instantly grounding about arriving here. As the gates open and the driveway winds through tall evergreens, the world begins to slow. The hum of the day fades into the background, replaced by the quiet rhythm of waves along the Salish Sea. This isn’t just a house – it’s a place where morning light spills through soaring windows, where gatherings stretch effortlessly from the kitchen island to the water’s edge, and where each space invites both celebration and stillness.

Built in 2022, the home feels both fresh and timeless – a careful balance of clean design and warm materials that echo the natural beauty outside. Light flows effortlessly through expansive windows, casting shifting patterns across oak floors and curated interiors. The vaulted entry makes a dramatic first impression, but it’s the sense of openness –the way the kitchen, living, and dining areas move together – that invites you to settle in. It’s a space designed for connection: for dinners that turn into late-night stories, and

quiet mornings that stretch just a little longer than planned.

There’s a rhythm to life here. Coffee as the sun rises over the ocean. Laughter echoing across the patio during long summer evenings. Time in the gym, a quiet soak in the hot tub, or curling up fireside while storms pass. Whether you're alone or hosting dozens of friends, the energy adapts – calm when you need peace, vibrant when you open your doors.

This home isn't just a private escape – it's a place where

community thrives. As the 2023 venue for Peninsula Gives: Oceanside Dining for a Cause, it welcomed over 80 guests – including 35 local businesses – and raised $200,000 for BC Children’s Hospital.

Located on prime waterfront in Central Saanich, this coastal estate is more than a property – it’s a lifestyle. Refined. Warm. Iconic.

www.chacewhitson.com

WORDS CHACE WHITSON

CHACE WHITSON REAL ESTATE GROUP

PHOTOS JACOB, PLATINUM CREATIVE

Set on 1.09 acres of prestigious waterfront, this 3,714-square-foot home offers 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, with views of the Salish Sea from nearly every room.

A chef’s dream kitchen awaits, outfitted with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, a spacious butler’s pantry, and ample seating for guests. The home also features a dedicated gym, a luxurious hot tub, and a detached triple-car garage – all designed with both functionality and finesse in mind.

to

Wake

breathtaking sunrises and golden light in this east-facing sanctuary, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing uninterrupted coastal views. Whether enjoying a cozy evening around the oceanside fire pit or hosting guests on the heated upper patio, the seamless indoor-outdoor connection creates a resort-like experience year-round.

Explore the Possibilities at Amica Beechwood Village

Are you considering senior living in Sidney for yourself or a loved one?

This is the perfect time to discover Amica Beechwood Village.

We invite you to enjoy a chef-prepared lunch in our garden, followed by a tour of our premium suites and amenities. Our wonderful team will be happy to share details about our personalized care services, exceptional dining, enriching programs, and meaningful social opportunities—all designed to create endless possibilities.

Schedule your visit with Sandy or Claire at 250-655-0849.

We look forward to seeing you.

One of the most common things I hear as an audiologist is: “I can hear, but things just don’t sound clear.” If that sounds familiar, you may be experiencing the early signs of hearing loss. But how do you know when it’s really time to consider hearing aids?

Hearing loss rarely happens overnight (but if it does, go to Emergency!). It’s typically a gradual process that sneaks up on people. Because the decline is so subtle, it’s often family members or friends who notice the problem first.

SIGNS IT MIGHT BE TIME

Here are some telltale signs that your hearing is no longer keeping up:

• You frequently ask people to repeat themselves.

• You get annoyed by a spouse who speaks to you with their back turned or from the other room.

• It seems like people aren’t enunciating properly.

• You find it harder to communicate in noisy places like restaurants or group settings.

• You turn up the TV or radio

louder than others prefer.

• You think "young people" speak too quickly.

• You have greater difficulty understanding people with accents.

• You feel mentally fatigued after long conversations from the effort of listening.

• Friends or loved ones say you’re not hearing them clearly.

These signs suggest that your brain is working overtime to fill in the blanks for the parts of speech you’re not hearing, which can lead to frustration, withdrawal, and even cognitive strain.

WHAT TO DO NEXT

If any of this sounds familiar, the first step is easy: book a hearing test. The audiologist will conduct a range of easy and painless tests, explain the results and make recommendations. If medical intervention is needed, you’ll be referred to your physician. If you’re a good candidate for hearing aids, they will be prescribed based on your hearing loss, lifestyle, aesthetic preferences and budget, and

How to Know When it's Time for Hearing Aids: Advice from an Audiologist

an in-clinic demonstration can be conducted.

If you decide to proceed, a hearing aid fitting appointment will be scheduled and the audiologist will spend a significant amount of time (about 90 minutes) verifying the physical and acoustic appropriateness of the hearing aids, as well as orienting you to the "care and feeding" of your new hearing devices.

From there, most clinics offer a 90-day trial period. This is a great opportunity for you to get adapted to the new way things sound in your everyday life. The hearing aids are tweaked

WORDS DONNA M. STEWART AUDIOLOGIST/OWNER, HEAR INC.

as needed during the trial. At the end of the 90 days, you can either keep the hearing aids, exchange them for something else, or return them for a refund (generally there is a nonrefundable portion to cover the cost of appointment times, couriers, etc.).

You don’t have to wait until your hearing is “too bad to get by.” If your hearing is interfering with your quality of life – even a little – it’s worth exploring solutions. Hearing well is about staying connected, confident and engaged. When your ears start falling behind, hearing aids can help you keep up.

New & Noteworthy

TRAVEL EXPERT TO PARALYMPIC ATHLETE

News, Changes, Updates, Launches

Have something for New & Noteworthy? Email noteworthy@ seasidemagazine.ca.

Departures Travel Sidney is proud to announce that Josh Holton, the team’s Accessible Travel Specialist, has been selected to join the Danish National Development Team for wheelchair rugby in preparation for the 2028 Paralympic Games! This incredible achievement is a testament to Josh’s determination, athleticism and unwavering commitment – all qualities he brings to both the court and his role at Departures Travel Sidney. As our Accessible Travel Specialist, Josh works passionately to help clients with mobility needs experience the world with confidence and ease.

ISLAND LEADERS SPARK CHANGE

Foundation, raised an astounding $1.76 million to transform women’s cancer care on Vancouver Island. The recent event funded a second operating room at Victoria General Hospital with state-of-the-art, minimally invasive surgical equipment. This investment will allow two gynecologic oncologists to operate simultaneously, doubling surgical capacity, reducing wait times and improving outcomes for women facing ovarian, cervical and endometrial cancers. This marks a huge leap forward in the women’s health field on the Island with over 500 women requiring these surgeries annually.

BROKEN BUTTERFLY

Local writer Wanda Gray recently published her book Broken Butterfly, a deeply personal true story about her

daughter Erin, told through a dual retelling. It’s a mother’s ode to a beautiful soul, taken and exploited. It's also a reminder that addiction can overtake even the most cautious, but it needn't define them. The aim is to raise awareness about human trafficking, drug addiction and the profound grief that often follows. Wanda has completed six speaking engagements in Saskatchewan and B.C., and plans to continue presenting at schools, colleges and treatment centres this summer and fall. The book is now available in local bookstores and libraries across Canada.

LOVE TO SING?

The Peninsula Singers are celebrating 45 wonderful years of music and community! They are inviting new members to join their dynamic show choir. Whether you are a soprano, alto, tenor or bass, they would

love to hear from you as they prepare for their festive Winter Wonderland performances this December. Auditions will be held Tuesday, September 9 at 6 p.m. Please don’t worry as the auditions are simply a chance to hear your voice and get to know you. Bring your passion for music and become part of something special! For more details and to apply, visit www.peninsulasingers.ca.

BEACON COMMUNITY SERVICES

Beacon Community Services has released its 2024–2025 Annual Report, showcasing the organization’s meaningful contributions across southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

Over the past year, Beacon has made a significant impact across the region, with more than 114,400 volunteer hours contributed by over 500 volunteers. Additionally, 644,009 thrift items were sold to support sustainability and local services, and 12,831 meals were delivered to vulnerable seniors. Housing support included rental supplements for 95 people and $24,000 per month in evictionprevention aid. A $77,500 grant from BC Housing enhanced technology and digital access, while the BEAMS mental health program supported 96 clients and connected with over 170 others.

On another note, Beacon

Community Services is proud to be recognized as a nominee for the 2025 Carol Matusicky Distinguished Service to Families Award by the BC Council for Families, in recognition of its strong ongoing partnership with the School District 63 (SD63) and the Individual Learning Centre (ILC). This collaboration helps students and families by providing inclusive programming and wraparound support.

SIDNEY ON THE MOVE

Over the past few months there has been somewhat of a Sidney Shuffle, with new storefronts opening, spaces expanding and fresh coats of paint popping up. Cameron Rose Gifts has now opened in the corner space at 2506 Beacon Avenue, just a few doors down from where they were. Refire Kitchen (Sidney) is now at 2506 Beacon and has done a major expansion, offering fantastic products and delicious ready to enjoy meals. Seawards Souvenir & Apparel has moved a few doors down within the same building, featuring more space and more beautiful products. The Peninsula Gallery has relocated from the Landmark Building to a bright, brand-new space at the corner of Bevan Avenue and First Street. With every move and makeover, Sidney’s downtown continues to shine with local flair and charm.

Creativity For All Ages

McTavish Academy Of Art resides in a former elementary school in North Saanich. The 18,000 sq. ft. space has been transformed into a vibrant and inclusive community art & recreation centre.

A space where we host classes, workshops, events, birthdays, rentals & create art kits for all ages. Join us and explore your creativity.

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 365 clients across Canada, principally in Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland.

No Financial Products to Sell Leads to Truly Independent Advice.

WITH Peter Dolezal

GICs - A SAFETY NET?

Over the past three years, as interest rates initially soared, even shorterterm yields reached 5%. As a result, GICs played a much more prominent role in investor Portfolios.

This was particularly true within tax-sheltered holdings such as RRSPs, RRIFs and TFSAs – less so, in fully taxed Non-Registered portfolios. In the past year, however, the attraction of GICs has faded significantly.

As interest rates declined, GIC yields followed. They continued to provide 100% protection of capital, but the returns barely kept pace with inflation. If growth in real terms was an investor’s objective, GICs were not the vehicle for any portfolio, even if tax-sheltered.

GICs can, in some circumstances, still play a useful role. If saving funds for near-term use, such as a home down payment or vehicle purchase, holding funds in suitablyladdered or cashable GICs may be prudent. In this instance, the key objective is capital preservation, to ensure the funds are available, with zero risk, when they are required.

GICs can also form part, or all, of the Fixed Income component of

portfolios with a majority of Equity-based investments. In this case, the aim is to hold sufficient minimal-risk capital to ensure that draws can be fully covered from the Fixed Income holdings, should the Equity component suffer a major correction. With this strategy, the investor will never be forced to sell Equities during market reversals. Although many investors may prefer to use Bonds or Bond Funds, GICs remain a reasonable option.

With longer-term investment time horizons, however, and the expectation of growth, a significant portion of an investor’s portfolio needs to be in Equity holdings. The proof? Over the past decade for example, the TSX Composite Index has posted an average annual total return approximating 9%. Returns were even higher for U.S. and Global Equity Indexes.

In short, although GICs are not suitable in meeting objectives of longer-term portfolio growth, they remain an option in some specific circumstances. At best, GICs, as well as Bonds and High-Interest Savings (HISAs), should be viewed primarily as vehicles for capital preservation, with minimal to no expectation of inflation-adjusted portfolio growth.

(Third Edition)

Included in the curriculum of several Canadian Colleges.

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

SEASIDE STORIES

NIȽ TU,O (in the beginning)

NIȽ TU,O Hosts 1st Annual Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration

WORDS ASHLEY MORRIS

PHOTOS NILTUO CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES SOCIETY

On June 20, NIȽ TU,O Child and Family Services hosted our first annual Indigenous Peoples Day event at the Saanich Fair Grounds. Open to members of the seven communities we work with – from newborns to Elders –this was a day of connection, culture and celebration.

For generations, Coast Salish communities have gathered

on or around the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, to visit with community and family members over a meal and celebrate culture, language and traditions. It was an honour for us to host our first of many events like this to come.

Outside, families enjoyed time in the beautiful weather. At the food table, guests were served

barbecued burgers and hot dogs. Children played games and chased bubbles with friends. Face cutouts and a 360 photo booth with music were available for guests to capture fun memories together.

Inside the hall, the atmosphere was just as lively. Guests gathered around tables to share a buffet of fresh salads, locally-made goodies, and more delicious barbecue. Local vendors from the community set up tables at the event offering handmade goods such as beaded jewelry, knitting and crafts, along with services like glitter tattoos and making balloon animals.

A DIY craft table was set up for families and youth to gather to make rattles and necklaces. Drumming performances filled the room with energy, including the exciting debut of our very own NIȽ TU,O paddle song.

This very special paddle song was prepared in advance of the upcoming Tribal Journeys cultural event. NIȽ TU,O staff, youth and family members will make up the paddle

crew and land crew as NIȽ TU,O participates for the first time, paddling our handcarved canoes alongside over 20 other paddle families to visit other Coast Salish communities, as part of an important reclamation of Coast Salish culture.

NIȽ TU,O ’s first annual Indigenous Peoples Day event was a happy celebration of our guiding values, including NUTSUMAT SHQWALUWUN – working together with one mind, as we continue to build a strong support system for Coast Salish children and families.

Families left with smiles, ice cream from the ice cream truck, and handmade items from the craft market.

NIȽ TU,O would like to thank everyone who attended, as well as the vendors, volunteers, and staff who made this day so special.

This is just one of many events NIȽ TU,O is hosting this summer. To learn more, visit our website or join us on social media.

To stay up to date on this story and others like it, subscribe to the NIȽ TU,O newsletter: www.niltuo.ca/newsletter/.

Mt Newton Cross Road, Central Saanich

Lochside Drive, Central Saanich

$5,399,000

Chalet Road, North Saanich

10865 Fernie Wynd Road, North Saanich

Saanich Peninsula Community Response Network

Sidney is a community devoted to making the lives of older adults safe and welcoming.

The Saanich Peninsula Community Response Network (SPCRN) is a charitable organization that offers free education to local residents, working together to help keep seniors and vulnerable adults safe from abuse, neglect and selfneglect. For the past two decades, under their host agency, Beacon Community Services at SHOAL Centre, SPCRN, has offered workshops, seminars and info booths aimed at this purpose.

“We are not a reporting agency if someone suspects a senior is being harmed or exploited,” says SPCRN Coordinator Anna Hudson. “While we can provide the right contact information, our mandate as public educators focuses on providing knowledge to help people understand how abuse can happen, and how each of us can help stop or prevent it.”

SPCRN is one of 94 Community Response Networks throughout the province, covering some 265 communities, under the umbrella of BC Association of Community Response Networks (BCCRN), funded primarily through the Ministry of Health. The roster of educational programs includes: “It’s Not Right –Neighbours, Friends and Families for Older Adults”; “See Something, Say

Something – Reducing Risk for Older Adults”; “Spotlight on Ageism”; and, more recently: “Introduction to Extreme Cluttering.” All programs are presented by trained facilitators and available for free to any organization, by booking through the provincial website (www.bccrns.ca).

SPCRN covers North Saanich, Sidney, Saanichton, Central Saanich and Brentwood Bay, and has partnered with numerous organizations such as Canada Revenue Service, Sidney/North Saanich RCMP, Crime-Stoppers, ICBC, BC Transit, Victoria Women’s Transition House, Family Caregivers, Sidney Lions Food Bank, local churches and

other organizations. SPCRN also offers events and lectures ranging from computer hacking, scams, frauds and identity theft to safe driving, partner violence, food security, and other relevant topics for keeping our communities safe. Every June 15, BCCRN encourages people to observe World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, by wearing purple to shine a spotlight on this very significant issue. The day was first introduced in 2006 by the United Nations in recognition of senior abuse being a global issue. On a lighter note, BCCRN also celebrates International Day of the Older Person, every October 1, which in Canada,

is known as National Seniors Day, providing an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of seniors to our economy and quality of life.

This Year, SPCRN and SHOAL Centre will hold a free Hot Dog Lunch and Music event, Wednesday, October 1, to say “Thank You” to local seniors for all they offer! If you’re a senior, and want to attend, please call the Centre (250656-5537) to register early; seating is limited. “It’s a fun way to express gratitude for what older adults add to the richness and fabric of our community,” says Anna Hudson, who can be reached at 778-677-4880 for more information about SPCRN.

WORDS & PHOTO SPCRN

RED ART GALLERY

Bold and joyfully out-of-the-box.

Not every artwork needs to shout to be heard.

Some speak in shape, soul, and something harder to name.

At our new gallery space, we’re bringing something rare to this part of Vancouver Island – art that doesn’t follow the rules. Work that’s emotionally layered, joyfully bold, and quietly powerful. It’s not like anything else you’ll find nearby – and that’s the point.

We are the exclusive representative of Master Artist Marion Evamy (me!)

Her unexpected textures, wild-hearted animals and stories stitched with colour don’t explain themselves. They invite you in.

Our collectors are often heard saying: “I didn’t expect to fall for it – but it just spoke to me.”

They’re deep feelers, design lovers, animal people and out-of-the-box thinkers. Curious minds with strong instincts and open hearts.

This space is for people who don’t need tradition to know what’s beautiful. For those who want to surround themselves with meaning, mystery and joy.

Come see what’s moving through. You might just find a piece that already belongs to you.

108-2506 Beacon Avenue, Sidney. www.redartgallery.ca

Love Your Local

You are investing in your community by supporting its unique businesses. Appreciate what makes our neighbourhoods different. Our one-of-akind 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.

Proud to Be Locally Owned

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.

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

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

NANCY'S SEW CREATIVE

Slipcovers for living.

As we enjoy the dog days of summer, I am celebrating 32 years in my shop. I have four hard-working machines that I purchased new and one vintage girl that continues to work beautifully for me. I have worn out two upholstery staplers, three compressors and three irons.

I spend spring and summer manufacturing quality covers for outdoor furniture using Sunbrella Furniture Fabric. No matter how soiled and faded your covers are, inners are usually pristine and can easily be refurbished.

My Sunbrella cushions go outside in May and remain there until the fall rains arrive. In the fall, I will remove the fillers and wash the covers. I spray them with protectant and pack them away to appear again in spring clean and ready for another summer season. In the fall and winter season, I manufacture slipcovers (loose covers) for your quality furniture. Washable slipcovers are perfect for our wet climate, and especially if you have pets.

Thank you all who have supported my business over 32 years. I look forward to meeting those who will support me in the future. Estimates are stress free and at no charge. Enjoy these last days of summer.

EXPERIENCE MATTERS.

Whether you are new to the area, going through a life transition, or unhappy with your current situation, you will find that Deborah takes a unique approach when working with her clients.

Whether you are new to the area, going through a life transition, or unhappy with your current situation, you will find that Deborah takes a unique approach when working with her clients.

Deborah’s 25 years of experience in the investment industry has resulted in her having a greater understanding of an investor’s needs and their tolerance to volatility, which allows her the ability to effectively guide investors through the ups and downs of today’s markets. She has successfully guided investors through many market cycles by ensuring that her clients are invested in a balance of suitable products. Determining the appropriate blend of investments that focus on preserving capital, generating income, or providing growth is key to finding a client’s comfort level.

Her 25 years of experience in the investment industry is her guide when working with investors. Deborah realizes that building a strong client relationship is rooted in trust and transparency. The foundation for a strong relationship is ensuring compatibility and effective communication. Investors want to know that their financial advisor is committed to their success and willing to take the time to listen to what is important to help them determine their goals.

It may surprise many to learn that investing is often not about achieving the ‘highest rate of return’, but rather having confidence that their financial advisor understands their goals and will prepare an investment plan to achieve those goals. What one investor considers important, another may not, therefore, goals, plans, and solutions are as unique as the individual, so too should be the portfolio!

The greatest threat to long-term investing is selling growthoriented investments during turbulent markets. History has proven that selling an investment with the expectation of purchasing it later (market timing) is not a successful investment strategy. An experienced financial advisor will ensure that the investor does not sabotage their long-term goals, and this starts with having a thorough understanding of the investor, such as past experiences, current investment knowledge, family situation, health concerns, and financial goals, both short and long-term.

Experience matters when it comes to guiding investors through turbulent markets.

Although setting goals, determining the appropriate asset allocation, implementing a strategy, building a portfolio, and monitoring investments are essential to successful investing, the most important factor is the amount of time that the professional spends with the investor. The more investment knowledge and understanding of the markets that an investor has, the greater the chances are for success. When investors are prepared for volatility and understand the emotional roller coaster that can be experienced during market corrections, the less chance they have of making decisions based on emotion rather than discipline and logic.

Preparing an investor for volatility helps the investor ride out the emotional roller coaster that one can experience during a market correction. Effective communication with the investor is essential to ensure that investment decisions are based on logic rather than emotion.

A financial advisor who has experience guiding investors through these market corrections is an invaluable asset to achieving one’s financial goals.

A financial advisor who has experience guiding investors through these market corrections is an invaluable asset to achieving one’s financial goals.

PATIO SEASON

Don’t take chances with your financial success because experience truly does matter!

Don’t take chances with your financial success because experience truly does matter!

deborah.reid@raymondjames.ca

Raymond James Ltd., Member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

she can remember. What began as a childhood love for drawing has evolved into a lifelong journey, weaving together her passion for design as well as vintage memories. Today Orion specializes in custom paintings of classic vehicles, capturing the timeless lines, curves and character that make these vehicles iconic. With a background in both graphics and communication, as well as 2D and 3D animation, Orion holds two specialized art diplomas. While her training has taught her the importance of detail and digital craftsmanship, it is her deep love for classic cars that really inspires this artist’s work.

Some of Orion’s fondest memories revolve around her own vehicles, which included both 1965 and 1966 Chevy Panel Trucks. On her 21st birthday she bought the 1966 vehicle. Owning and working on these trucks taught her to appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind classic

however, she can still picture them like it was just yesterday. Every piece she now paints brings her one step closer to purchasing another classic ride. Orion’s work is unique in that every piece is personal. She works directly with each client through photos to create a detailed, custom portrait of their prized vehicles. These paintings are tributes to the stories, sweat and love that go into owning and restoring a classic car.

Over the years, Orion has built meaningful connections within the local car enthusiast community. One of the most rewarding parts of her artistic journey has been the opportunity to complete several custom commissions for members of the Torquemasters Car Club, a group dedicated to preserving and promoting interest in all makes and models of automobiles and sharing that passion with people across all levels of the community. Many of Orion’s paintings bear the initials “TM” in the title, a quiet tribute to

her collaborations with club members and their cherished vehicles. These relationships have enriched Orion’s work in countless ways. Through them, she has been welcomed into a vibrant circle of collectors, restorers and classic car lovers who truly value craftsmanship, heritage and the unique stories every vehicle carries. The Torquemasters community has played a key role by inspiring Orion to keep painting, growing and sharing her own artistic tribute to the legacy of classic cars.

This summer, you can experience Orion’s artwork up

close at Alexander’s Coffee in Sidney, Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Her collection of classic car paintings will be on display from until August 9 at 2385 Beacon Avenue. This coincides with the Torquemasters Car Show, taking place on August 3 on the streets of Sidney.

Whether you are a car lover, an art enthusiast, or someone who simply appreciates a well-told story on canvas, this exhibit is not to be missed.

You can contact Orion via email at orionart.cars@gmail.com.

WORDS JUNE MURRAY DAGNALL PHOTO ORION ART

Sidney Line Dancing: These Boots Were Made for Dancing

The Wizard of Oz told the Cowardly Lion “All you need is confidence.” Susan Martman of Sidney Line Dancing would enthusiastically add: “And cowboy boots!!”

Susan, a high energy 75-yearold, discovered line dance five years ago. Since then, she has been teaching others this fun activity and collecting numerous pairs of cowboy boots along the way.

“Line dance fills me with so much joy. Put the music on and I’m dancing! You can wear runners, but cowboy boots make a nice noise with the stomps and claps,” she says, and adds for emphasis: “I own 14 pairs of boots!”

Generally speaking, line dancing involves dancers lining up in rows without partners and following a repeated choreographed dance pattern. Everyone faces the same direction and executes the same steps simultaneously. While line dancing can be traced back to European folk dances and is typically associated with country music, it is a form that has evolved over time.

“It’s not just country,” relates Susan. “Line dancing encompasses other forms of dance like ballroom. It can use

Latin rhythms like the mambo, which includes movements like sweeps and turns.”

So, what makes line dancing so popular, you might ask? Susan says there are plenty of reasons. “You don’t need a partner and it’s not expensive. It’s a form of dance that is so accessible and social. Unlike ballroom which requires a more rigid posture and where your feet have to be exact, there’s more leeway with line dance.”

Susan teaches a variety of adult line dance classes to a range of ages. “There is an Absolute Beginner class which covers all the basics like step together step, half turn, heel dig, grapevine, V-step, and K-step. The Beginner Level 2 and 3 classes are longer and students learn more intricate steps,” she outlines. “We have people from their 40s to mid-80s. One man who participated at Shoal Centre was 89 years old”.

It can be challenging, but Susan welcomes the experience. “When you teach, you have to be constantly thinking ahead

WORDS JO BARNES

PHOTO SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT

TAMARA PARENT, SUSAN MARTMAN, BRENDA MORRIS & KELLY ALBUCZ

a couple of bars while you’re dancing. It’s a skill,” she relates. “Sometimes I might make a mistake. It doesn’t matter. We all make mistakes. I laugh; the students laugh.”

While it has taken a lot of effort to find a venue for her line dancing, Susan and her classes have found a home at McTavish Academy of Art and Shoal Centre. “It has taken five years to find a more permanent home. Sidney Line Dancing has been at RV Parks, St. Paul’s United Church and Allegro Dance,” she says. “When Covid came along, we did classes outside in the parking lot of Sidney’s Highway Christian Fellowship Church.”

Susan’s involvement with line dancing all began with an experience in California a few years back that captivated her attention. “My husband and I have been snowbirds for many years. We would go down south for three months each year. We went to California,” says Susan. “One day, I’d been watching line dance and decided to take part.”

Susan was a quick study, and before long, Brenda Needham, the instructor, a fellow snowbird from Canada, recognized Susan’s ability and asked her to assist with teaching. “In all my years of teaching line dancing, I have never met anyone that learned to line dance as quickly as Susan,” relates Brenda. “In a very short time, she became ‘my Susan.’ In my classes she would position herself in the back so that when the dancers turned,

they could watch ‘my Susan’ which made it easier for them to learn the dances.”

Brenda, who has been teaching line dancing in Comox for six years, suggested that Susan might want to try teaching it in her home area of Sidney. She agreed to the idea. Fast forward to 2025: Susan is not only leading line dance classes at several venues, but she has mentored others such as assistant teachers Brenda Morris, Tamara Parent and Kelly Albucz.

She also shares her love of line dancing outside the dance studio, leading dance at local social events. “We have had so much fun at the ANAVET (Army Navy Air Force Veterans) dance club events in Sidney,” she says. “The dance floor is full!”

Fun and laughter are at the heart of Susan’s classes. Brenda can attest to Susan’s abilities and enthusiastic approach. “With Susan, people can expect an instructor who is a lot of fun,” comments Brenda. “She is an amazing dancer and choreographer and openly shares her love of line dance with others.”

But whether or not you own a pair of cowboy boots, you might be wondering if line dance is for you. We’ll let Susan have the last word: “It’s pure joy. I want people to feel included. Come give it a try!”

https://mctavishacademy.ca/ dance-studio/line-dancingclasses/

Personal Planning: The Critical Importance of Powers of Attorney

WORDS TODD G. WIEBE

NOTARY PUBLIC, SALVADOR DAVIS & CO.

A Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants another person, known as the "attorney," the authority to act on behalf of another person, referred to as the "adult," in particular legal

and financial matters.

The significance of having a Power of Attorney cannot be overstated as it authorizes another person to manage your legal and financial affairs.

It allows individuals to appoint someone, often a family member, they trust to make critical decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so themselves.

The attorney then has the power to make any financial decisions on behalf of the adult. This makes the document extremely “powerful.” You must implicitly trust this person as there may be a time where you cannot watch over what the attorney does and the attorney could misuse their position.

It is commonly understood that a Power of Attorney becomes effective when the adult loses capacity, but it

can be structured to allow the attorney to make decisions while the adult is capable. Attorneys may be asked by the adult themselves to assist the adult in instances when the adult is travelling but selling their house at the same time, or when the adult is perhaps capable but less confident in managing some of their more complex financial tasks, such as investment or income taxes.

Without a valid Power of Attorney, or court appointment, there is no person who can manage affairs for another person. This even applies between spouses. Each person must decide whom they wish to trust with this critical role. The Power of Attorney indicates that you do, in fact, trust the person who is attempting to assist you.

Along with the significance

of a Power of Attorney being in place as preparation for any capacity inhibiting events, it allows the adult to have peace of mind for who exactly will be managing these affairs should they ever need to. Acting as Power of Attorney can be a time consuming job at times, and requires a certain type of person who is willing to accept that position. Allowing yourself time to decide who in your life you believe fits the criteria of the role and has your best interests is vital.

An Enduring Power of Attorney is a personal planning tool that is best used in concert with a Will and a Representation Agreement, which appoints a medical decision maker. It is strongly recommend that each person have a Power of Attorney, regardless of age, drafted by your notary or lawyer.

•

•

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 15 T H , 2025

MARY WINSPEAR CENTRE DOORS & COCKTAIL RECEPTION 5:30PM

• 3 course dinner

• Complimentary drinks

• Entertainment by The Haven

Funds raised will go toward the Enhancing Surgical Services campaign at Saanich Peninsula Hospital.

TICKETS $ 300 To

Saving Sidney One Spine at a Time: Westcore Training Centre

There’s something quietly revolutionary happening behind the glass doors of Westcore Training Centre in Sidney. It’s not a trendy bootcamp, or a fad-fuelled challenge. Instead, it’s something much more powerful – and far more sustainable.

It’s the sight of more than 200 seniors, aged 60 to 90, getting stronger, standing taller, walking steadier, and living better, over the past year.

Since opening its Sidney location just over a year ago, Westcore has become a beacon of health and hope for the town’s aging population. “We like to say we’re saving Sidney one spine at a time,” says Mike, co-founder and CEO, reflecting on the growing community of older adults reclaiming strength, mobility, and confidence through movement.

A SMARTER MODEL: STRENGTH IN SEMI-PRIVATE

Westcore specializes in semiprivate personal training – a model that brings all the perks of one-on-one coaching (custom plans, expert oversight, targeted results) at a fraction of the cost. In their bright, spotless Sidney studio, each client trains

in their own fully-equipped pod – never crowded, never rushed, and always supported.

Each pod comes with personalized programming and access to a dedicated coach who guides, adjusts and cheers on every rep. But it’s more than just equipment and instruction – it’s a respectful, encouraging atmosphere that emphasizes service, cleanliness and privacy, with a strong human connection at its heart.

Affordable personal training done right, the team is making high-quality coaching accessible to the people who need it most – without compromising care or results.

MORE THAN A WORKOUT: A MISSION TO MAINTAIN QUALITY OF LIFE

Westcore’s programs are built around a simple truth: if we don’t maintain the body, it breaks down. The centre’s work is rooted in a mission to directly enhance the quality of as many lives as possible – especially those in later stages of life.

For seniors in particular, that means training for longevity, not vanity. The goal? Staying strong enough to carry groceries, walk the seawall, get up off the floor,

or enjoy an active retirement without fear of injury or loss of independence.

It’s not about lifting heavy weights or chasing six-packs, members find. It’s about being able to live in one’s own home, garden and travel without pain. Those are the real wins.

The results speak for themselves: clients report improved posture, reduced joint pain, better balance, more energy, and a renewed sense of purpose. Many come for physical health and stay for the sense of community and personal empowerment.

A FAMILY BUSINESS WITH BIG HEART (& BIG PLANS)

Westcore was founded 12 years ago by a couple of friends who shared a passion for movement and helping others. What began as a humble start-up has grown into a thriving family-run business with three locations in B.C. – including Sidney, Victoria and Surrey.

The Sidney studio, in particular, has become a standout success thanks to its closeknit community and growing reputation among seniors.

“It’s been humbling to see the impact,” the founders say. “We’ve had folks tell us they’ve avoided surgery, improved their bone density, or simply feel human again.”

Now, Westcore is preparing to scale their unique model with a newly-launched franchise program – offering others the chance to bring accessible, results-driven fitness into more communities across Canada.

“It’s our way of paying it forward. If we can help more people move better, live longer and age with dignity, we’ll consider it a job well done.”

ALL AGES. ALL LEVELS. ALL WELCOME.

Though Westcore has earned

a reputation for senior-friendly training, their doors are open to all ages and abilities. From retirees to new moms, busy professionals to recovering athletes, the semi-private approach allows each person to train at their own pace, with the support they need to succeed.

And while fitness trends come and go, Westcore’s approach is timeless: science-backed movement, done with care, and guided by people who genuinely want to see you thrive.

Because, as the team puts it:

“Life is a marathon, not a sprint. Let’s train for it properly.”

TRY WESTCORE FOR YOURSELF

New to strength training? Returning after injury? Curious about the semi-private experience? Westcore offers complimentary consultations and intro sessions to help you explore whether it’s the right fit – no pressure, no ego, just good people doing good work.

Visit Westcore Training Centre – Sidney at 2506 Beacon Avenue, or check them out online at www. westcoretrainingcentre.com

Ready to stand taller, move easier, and feel stronger – at any age? Westcore can help. One spine at a time.

SIDNEY

A Pet Care Centre That Loves

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

250-652-2301 2918 Lamont Road, Saanichton puppylove.ca • email: info@puppylove.ca

Just minutes from Victoria Airport & BC Ferries Terminal

SIDNEY HARBOUR DENTAL

We provide all the dental services you need to achieve and maintain a beautiful smile. We are committed to providing each and every patient with treatments tailored to their specific needs and goals. We provide all our patients with the highest level of care and treat them like our own family. We offer evening hours to ensure you can receive treatment without compromising your schedule. If you’re looking for a dental office near you, look no further.

Quiet Craftsmanship: A Student’s Journey Through the Saanich Carpentry Program

If you attended the Canada Day Parade in Sidney this year, you may have noticed something unique rolling down the route – a beautifully crafted tiny home built by students in the Saanich School District’s STAC (Skills Trades Apprenticeship Carpentry) program.

Putting the tiny home in the parade was the brilliant idea of STAC teacher, Brandon Heyer, and it accomplished more than just turning heads. Showcasing and celebrating our students’ talents and selling the home were all accomplished!

In a workshop that is usually filled with the sounds of hammers and saws, one student from last year’s cohort made a lasting impression –not with his words, but with his unwavering focus, exceptional skill and journey to graduation. Kaden Lok, a reserved student, started taking classes through SIDES (South Island Distant Education School) at the end of his Grade 10 year while still a student at St. Andrew’s. In September of his Grade 11 year, he became a full-time SIDES student.

To participate in a Saanich School District Career Program, students must be enrolled full time in one of the district’s five high schools. Kaden had mentioned that he was interested in carpentry and connected with

Rhiannon Cockayne, career teacher at SIDES. With one spot available, he took the plunge and applied, interviewed and was accepted into the program in the second semester of his Grade 11 year.

In the workshop, Kaden quickly earned a reputation for his thoughtful approach and meticulous work. Whether framing a wall or interpreting blueprints, his calm demeanor and attention to detail set him apart. “I liked the hands-on learning and how we were able to work two days a week and get real workplace experience,” Kaden shared.

After spring break the program shifts into high gear – students spend three days a week working on the tiny home and are indentured as youth apprentices. This blend of theory and practical experience is a cornerstone of the program’s success. Kaden secured an apprenticeship with Città Group Construction and thrived in being part of a professional job site.

After completing the STAC program, Kaden finished the courses he needed for graduation at the Individual Learning Centre (ILC). His hard work paid off: this past spring he received a Youth Work in Trades Award for completing 900 hours as a youth apprentice and successfully completed his

Level 1 Carpentry program at Camosun. He’s now set to begin his Level 2 program in January of 2026.

Kaden’s journey is a powerful reminder that the path to graduation isn’t

always linear. His story highlights the value of alternative learning models, the importance of skilled trades, and the quiet strength of students who let their work speak for itself.

WORDS HEIDI HACKMAN, DISTRICT CAREER COORDINATORS, SD 63

PHOTO JANIS JEAN

Personal Style Meets Sustainable BeautyFocus Hair Design

At Focus Hair Design, personalized service is at the heart of everything they do. With a talented team that includes Clare, Mark, Alyssa and Annabelle, there is a stylist for every hair type, texture and vision. Whether you are looking for a dramatic change or perhaps simply a subtle refresh, the team is passionate about helping you find your perfect look, all while keeping the environment top of mind.

As a Green Circle Certified Salon, Focus goes above and beyond in sustainability. Everything used in the salon including paper, plastic, metals, single-use items, colour waste and even hair clippings are recycled through Green Circle's innovative program. Even the hair collected is repurposed into mats used to clean up ocean oil spills. Clients are encouraged to return empty product bottles, which are also responsibly recycled. Focus is proud to reduce its carbon footprint while maintaining high standards of eco-consciousness. All products used and sold are vegan, cruelty-free, and environmentally sustainable.

From short crops to long layers, curls, waves or sleek strands, Focus offers cuts tailored to everyone’s lifestyle. Their colour services range from root touch-ups

to vibrant fashion shades, full and partial highlights, lowlights, balayage and natural blondes. They also specialize in stunning updos for milestone events, weddings and anniversaries. If you are looking to add texture or reduce frizz, ask about their perm services and the Kerasilk smoothing treatment for incredible longlasting, polished results.

Focus Hair Design also stocks a curated collection of top-tier, eco-friendly haircare products, including shampoos, conditioners, masks, gels, curl creams, smoothing balms and volumizing sprays. They proudly carry trusted brands that are free of parabens, sulfates and animal testing, including brands such as Neuma, Loma, and Canadian made Design Me.

Reserve a personal consultation at no cost. The Focus team is knowledgeable, attentive, and always take the time to understand your goals, address all your questions, and make you feel completely at ease throughout the entire process. Clare, Mark, Alyssa and Annabelle look forward to welcoming you, and ensuring you leave with a style you love and a smile to match!

www.focushairdesignsidney. com; 250-656-8122

WORDS JUNE MURRAY DAGNALL

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

1

Local Flavour: Feature of the Month

Choose People Over Pixels – Please!

WORDS JUNE MURRAY DAGNALL

As the school year grows distant in the rear view mirror, and families are slowing down, reconnecting, and making summer memories together, I am reminded of a story I read a few months ago with a very powerful message that stuck with me. An elementary school teacher asked her class to answer the question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” The answer from one student left the teacher speechless and made me want to dive deeper into their answer. “When I grow up, I want to be a cell phone.” Please note that this child did not say they wanted to have a cell phone, and instead said they wanted to be a cell phone! This was a powerful signal from a child who obviously felt unseen or disconnected; to me it was a very honest and unsettling reflection of the times we live in.

Manners begin at home and children want to be held, looked at, listened to and engaged with – all the things we do with our cell phone! These are examples of the connection we are losing while staying connected.

• Lack of eye contact. Children thrive on eye contact as it tells them “I see you, and you matter.”

• Delayed or distracted responses. Hearing the

words “just a second ...” again and again teaches children they are not a priority.

• Missed Moments. Little things to us are big things to a child – telling a funny story, performing a new dance move, or showing their drawing.

• Emotional Disconnection. Over time this can lead to acting out or withdrawing.

• Lead by Example. Children learn through imitation. Always seeing a phone in someone’s hand may result in believing this is what a relationship looks like – distant, distracted and divided.

• Replacing Conversation. At the table, in the car and at bedtime are all perfect opportunities for bonding and emotional check ins which can get lost due to scrolling or texting.

However, making small shifts can result in big impacts.

• Put the phone down when a child walks into the room

• Have phone-free meals, bedtime routines and special quiet time

• Look the child in the eye when they speak, and really listen.

• Use your phone to capture precious memories with the phone camera, not replace them.

Cell phones are essential as they help us navigate life through communication, with safety, with productivity, with information access, and with entertainment and creativity.

Even more important are the little ones tugging at our sleeves, calling our names, or simply waiting to be

noticed. The moments we have are now, as the giggles, questions, stories and sleepy bedtime chats slip away far too quickly. Your presence is the present they crave.

Of course, use the phone when needed; however, do not forget to look up. The moments that truly matter are looking right back at you.

SEASIDE FLAVOUR

Off the Vine

Vancouver Island's Fermentation Renaissance

A few years back in a London market in the U.K., I encountered a kombucha evangelist who was convinced his fizzy tea could cure a child's Type 1 diabetes.

local blueberries, creating a wine that tastes like summer afternoons and connects us directly to humanity's oldest alcoholic tradition. You can sample this remarkable beverage at their tasting room, where the honey's floral notes give way to the burst of Island blueberries on your palate.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Maan Farms: Raspberry Table

While I admired his enthusiasm for fermentation, I was a little concerned he'd been sampling a little too much of his own product.

Humans have been getting excited about the magical transformation of sugar into alcohol for millennia, though thankfully most of us have learned to keep our claims a bit more grounded than promising miracle cures. While that London kombucha seller was making wild health claims, British Columbia's producers are quietly revolutionizing what fermentation can achieve.

Locally-made natural wines are big business here on Vancouver Island. In Victoria, there are now several venues selling a selection of natural wines – wines made using traditional techniques, with no pesticides or herbicides and limited filtration. Venues like Tourist, RabbitRabbit and L’Apero showcase many of our great local wines.

Back on the mainland, innovators are making Pétillant naturel wines, commonly known as Pet-Nats. Unlike Champagne, where a secondary fermentation

creates bubbles in the bottle, Pet-Nats capture the bubbles from the primary fermentation, resulting in wines that are lighter, softer, and usually a bit hazy from the yeast left in the bottle – with a gentle effervescence that dances on your tongue rather than demanding attention.

Back here on Vancouver Island, Coastal Black Estate Winery has been experimenting with mead, bringing ancient traditions into conversation with Island terroir. Mead is humanity's oldest alcoholic beverage, created by mixing honey with water and flavouring with spices before fermentation. Archaeological evidence stretches back over several thousand years, making mead a common drink throughout human history.

Here on Vancouver Island, Coastal Black has created a blueberry mead that represents a perfect marriage of traditional techniques and Island ingredients. Their melomel – the technical term for fruit-enhanced mead – delivers honey's ancient sweetness balanced by the bright tartness of

Similarly, The Victoria Cider Company demonstrates how innovation builds on tradition with their remarkable Cyser. This sophisticated blend of cider, quince and wildflower honey undergoes two years of barrel aging, creating a complex beverage that opens with apple's familiar comfort before revealing layers of quince's exotic perfume and honey's deep sweetness. It pairs beautifully with aged cheeses and represents the pinnacle of local cider craft. You can find their Cyser at select Victoria restaurants and their Saanich tasting room, where the extended aging process creates a drink worthy of special occasions.

Beyond Vancouver Island, producers like Maan Farms in the Fraser Valley are pushing boundaries further, creating exceptional beverages from raspberries, blueberries and blackberries, using an impressive two pounds of fruit per bottle to achieve intense, concentrated flavours. This dedication to fruit-forward fermentation echoes the connection between fruit and wine in B.C. that runs deep through our provincial heritage.

From the honey-kissed meads of Comox to the fruit-forward ciders of Victoria, Vancouver Island offers a remarkable journey through fermentation's possibilities. But our province's fermentation story extends well beyond the Island. British Columbia has established some of the world's strictest standards for craft distilleries, requiring 100% B.C. agricultural inputs and on-site fermentation, creating a new generation of spirits that truly reflect our terroir.

While Vancouver Island boasts an impressive array of fermentation artisans, sometimes exceptional craft demands a journey across the water. Maan Farms in the Fraser Valley has earned recognition for their awardwinning raspberry wine that sets the gold standard for fruit-forward fermentation in B.C.

Victoria Cider Company: Cyser

At 12% ABV, this isn't your typical cider – it's a rich, refreshing sipper that deserves to be savoured slowly. The collaboration with Tugwell Creek Honey Farm & Meadery brings together two of the Island's most respected fermentation artisans, creating a beverage that showcases the best of both traditions.

Coastal Black Estate: Blueberry Mead

Experience humanity's oldest alcoholic tradition with a distinctly Vancouver Island twist at Coastal Black Estate's Blueberry Mead. This delicious melomel (fruit-infused honey wine) showcases the perfect marriage of traditional mead-making techniques with local ingredients, allowing both the bright berry flavours and floral honey notes to shine through on the palate.

WORDS RICHARD HOPE

Welcome to The Cento

Thoughtful Design Meets Everyday Comfort. Live beautifully in The Cento, a curated collection of quality-built condos by the Vidalin Group in the heart of Saanichton.

1235 Marchant

Located just minutes from top schools, parks & the charming village of Brentwood Bay, this home offers an unbeatable lifestyle for families. Updates throughout, including fresh interior & exterior paint, warm wood flooring & a bright, airy feel that flows from room to room.

9371/9369 Webster

Coastal Luxury in Sidney by the Sea with beautiful ocean views. Built with uncompromising quality by Vidalin Group & thoughtfully designed by Step One Designs.

915 Birch

Beautifully updated 2-bedroom + den rancher in the heart of Deep Cove – one of the most sought-after locations on the Saanich Peninsula. Set on a sun-drenched & private 0.6-acre lot, this 2005-built home offers the perfect blend of comfort, function & serene West Coast living.

When Deanna and John first set foot on the one-acre Deep Cove property, they saw more than just trees and terrain – they saw possibility. A quiet cul-de-sac lot with towering evergreens, it offered the privacy they craved and the space they needed to build not just a home but a future.

WORDS JANICE HENSHAW

PHOTOS SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

“Our vision from the start was to design something we could live in comfortably now and grow older in,” says Deanna. “We wanted main-floor living and the ability to age in place. But we also wanted to build a legal cottage to help supplement our retirement down the road – and contribute to the community by adding rental housing.”

The result is a thoughtfullydesigned, light-filled home that blends functionality, warmth and a gentle nod to both West Coast and traditional farmhouse styles. While technically a two-storey build, the 3,000-square-foot home is fully livable on one level, with a spacious flex room and full bath upstairs.

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN’T BUY

After building four houses, Deanna and John have developed strong relationships with trusted trades. Their designer, Lindsay Baker of Aspire Design, has worked with them on all four builds. “He takes our vision and puts it on paper,” says John. Both Deanna and John were involved in the design process – a role they’ve embraced many times before. As for the interior design, they know what they like, and are not afraid to make choices. Evenings and weekends were often spent visiting tile shops and material suppliers. “It was like date night,” Deanna laughs. “We’d hit up three showrooms one after another. Exhausting, but fun.”

John acted as the general contractor and was very involved in the construction and all the finishing work. While many people find building a home overwhelming, he says the key is effective communication, clear scheduling and a genuine passion. “I enjoy the process – it’s not difficult if you stay ahead and make decisions in time.” But doing it while working full time? “Yes, it’s hard to fit it all in, but it’s also creative and rewarding.”

THOUGHTFUL DESIGN, LAYERED LIVING

From the moment you enter, the home feels warm and welcoming. Max, their

handsome golden retriever, adds to that warmth with his joyful antics. Wide-plank oak flooring runs underfoot, while a 14-foot vaulted ceiling in the living room adds spaciousness without feeling cavernous. Unlike many homes, there is no TV in the main living area. The kitchen and dining areas maintain 10foot ceilings, while the three bedrooms and side “wings” are dropped to nine feet for a cozier feel. “We played with ceiling heights intentionally,” explains John. “10-foot-high bedrooms just didn’t feel quite right – they weren’t as intimate. So we adjusted the architecture as we went.” The kitchen is anchored by an eight- by four-foot island featuring an elegant quartz

countertop that matches the perimeter countertops and full-height backsplash. The Shaker-style cabinets built by Harbour City Kitchens were painted White Dove (Benjamin Moore). Brass hardware adds a subtle gleam. Appliance choices reflect the couple’s practical approach to life. “We went with Bosch for the kitchen and Electrolux for the laundry,” Deanna says. “We wanted energy efficiency and reliability. You hear so many stories about high-end brands breaking down. We chose mid-range, trusted names.”

John designed wainscoting for the dining room wall, creating visual interest and a backdrop for potential art pieces. Trees from the property were milled, and John used the wood for decorative shelving, soffits, beams and posts. The wall paint is Natural Cream (Benjamin Moore), described as having gray, beige and yellow undertones, which provides a warm, neutral tone without being pure white. A large 12- by eight-foot glass slider opens onto the patio space, creating an extension of their kitchen and connecting the indoor living space with their outdoor area.

The primary ensuite is a peaceful sanctuary with a soaker tub that overlooks the back garden, a spacious tiled shower, and a heated floor beneath quartz-topped white oak cabinetry. “We copied this design from a magazine I loved,” says Deanna with a laugh. “It just felt serene.” Here, the paint is Classic Gray (Benjamin Moore). Both paint colours were chosen intentionally to be timeless and not follow temporary trends.

A walk-through closet from the main bedroom connects directly to the laundry room. In their last house, they had to walk through the bedroom to get to the laundry. “Now it’s seamless,” says John. “Closet, laundry, mudroom; it’s those little things that make living here easier.” The powder room off the mudroom is playful and bold, with patterned wallpaper and a statement mirror. “It’s a fun room,” Deanna says. “I can get a bit more creative in spaces like this.” There are four bathrooms altogether. Upstairs, the cozy flex room is carpeted for warmth and comfort. It’s a well-planned, secluded space to watch TV, work on office tasks, engage in hobbies, or exercise. “We’ve got

a full bath up there, too, so it could easily be a perfect retreat for guests, or a parent in the future,” says Deanna.

Outdoors, John has done all the landscaping, planting more than 90 trees – including western red cedar and white pine – to restore privacy and give back to the land. They have added Japanese maples, weeping birch, hostas, azaleas, hydrangeas, and forest pansy trees. “It’s peaceful. When you come home at the end of the day, it brings you down a few notches,” John says. “It’s a true retreat.”

The one-acre lot allowed them to build a detached 1,000-square-foot cottage that has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, vaulted ceilings and durable finishes. “We lived in the cottage while we built the main house,” says Deanna. “It’s cozy, feels like its own private space and has quartz counters and vinyl plank flooring.”

Let Us Help You Sleep Better!

At Sidney Mattress – locally owned and operated for the last 7 years – we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service with a personal touch. No pushy sales tactics, no gimmicks, no ridiculous markups, just a relaxed friendly experience focused entirely on you.

LOOKING AHEAD

... MAYBE

While the couple jokes that they’re done building – “Let’s enjoy this for five years,” Deanna says – they both know another project may be on the horizon. “If we did build again,” John muses, “it would be a true traditional farmhouse – separate rooms, not an open concept, maybe a wraparound veranda. And on five acres,” he grins. Deanna agrees. “I’ve fallen in love with English cottage style – organic textures, rooms that feel lived in. We both just love architecture and design.”

But for now, they’re settling in, enjoying the space they’ve created – one that reflects their experience, their values, and their hard-earned balance between work and rest. “We built this place for the long haul,” says Deanna. “It feels like home because we poured ourselves into every part of it.”

For Sale

on the Peninsula

We live in a little piece of paradise; here are some featured properties for sale on southern Vancouver Island to help you experience it to the fullest!

PIERS ISLAND

GETAWAY

$1,199,000

HOLMES REALTY GROUP | COLDWELL BANKER

OCEANSIDE REALTY holmesrealty.com

3 McKenzie Cr. Off the Grind, but not off the Grid! This custom-built 2005 home offers marine access only, ensuring peace and privacy. Enjoy easy walk-on beachfront, perfect for kayaking or sunbathing. Inside, soaring 20-foot ceilings with a unique inverted ship hull design frame the openconcept living, dining and kitchen areas! MLS # 1003418

BRIGHT

CORNER CONDO IN SIDNEY

$725,000

STEPHANIE PEAT

250.656.0131 stephaniepeat.ca

SPACIOUS ARDMORE HOME

$1,949,000

STEPHANIE PEAT

250.656.0131 stephaniepeat.ca

BEAUTIFUL SIDNEY RANCHER

$1,099,000

STEPHANIE PEAT

250.656.0131 stephaniepeat.ca

#204-2421 Sidney Ave. Welcome to The Sands! This bright, stylish 1,332 sq ft corner condo offers two bedrooms, two baths, a modern kitchen, two balconies, and abundant natural light, all just steps from downtown Sidney’s shops, dining, and waterfront. One parking spot included! MLS # 1004975

885 Falkirk Ave. Architecturally designed and impeccably maintained, this spacious Ardmore home offers bright open living with tranquil garden views, a main-floor primary suite, custom kitchen, and flexible lower level. Enjoy coastal living near trails, golf, beaches, and year-round comfort with dual heat pumps.

MLS #1003023

2056 Northbrook Dr. Beautifully maintained Sidney rancher with bright open living, sunroom, heat pump, and private yard. Ideal location near YYJ, ferries, and beaches. Single-level layout, thoughtful upgrades, and maintained by originalowners make this a rare and easy-care find.

MLS #1006441

PREMIERE

LIVING AT SAYWARD HILL

$1,785,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

(*personal real estate corp)

ROYAL OAK RANCHER

$1,059,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

(*personal real estate corp)

VIEW CONDO IN SIDNEY BY THE SEA!

$499,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

Breathtaking views and a luxurious lifestyle. Elegant, concrete/steel 2007 build offers 1,860sf sub-penthouse space. Stunning open plan, custombuilt updates and updated kitchen perfect for entertaining. Expansive balcony showcasing panoramic views with gas/ power/water for al fresco living. A private, light-filled sanctuary!

MLS# 1002779

Custom built in 1987 with quality from the outset. Recent updates incl. all new flooring, painting, lighting, window coverings, updated bathrooms & spacious layout in almost 1,600sf, this Rancher is a perfect 10! Natural light fills every room. Set on a sunny, private lot, with fruit trees, grapes, gardens, and fully fenced.

MLS#975060

This enchanting corner condo offers panoramic ocean and mountain views, creating a serene and picturesque retreat just steps away from the shore. Boasting 1,022 sq2ft, this inviting 2 bed/2 bath, pet friendly residence is a true gem for those seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

MLS# 1007403

CHARMING

SPACIOUS SIDNEY CONDO!

$580,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

(*personal real estate corp)

MATTICK'S WOOD!

$1,598,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

(*personal real estate corp)

PERCHED ATOP CORDOVA RIDGE

$1,295,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

(*personal real estate corp)

Step into this delightful corner unit featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,126sf of pure charm and ready for your personal touch and updates. With oversized windows inviting in abundant natural light, this home offers a wellthought-out layout perfect for relaxation and entertaining. Pet friendly & well maintained.

MLS# 1007977

Be impressed with this immaculate 2000 custom built, 3BD/3BA, 2,410sf home with incredible natural light, excellent finishing and recent upgrades Fantastic layout with level entry, option for Primary Bedroom on the Main. Situated in an upscale enclave of luxury homes steps to shops, golf, sandy beaches & nature trails.

MLS# 999449

This 8,728sf building lot presents an unparalleled opportunity to create your own piece of paradise. Marvel at the panoramic views of Mt Baker, the San Juans, and the glistening ocean from a lofty elevation of approx. 300ft above sea level. Survey, archaeological & Geotech done & no GST!

MLS# 995950

SIDNEY TOP FLOOR CORNER CONDO

$970,000

ROBYN WILDMAN

250.818.8522

The Wildman Group RWildman@sothebysrealty.ca

WELCOME

TO THE CORDWOOD

JORDY HARRIS*

250.385.2033

(*personal real estate corp)

#418 - 9650 First St. Top-floor corner condo with panoramic ocean views, skylights and natural light. Rare private garage, 2 beds, 2 baths, large eat-in kitchen and a new gas fireplace. Prime location steps from the waterfront, parks, and amenities. Well-managed, friendly building in a vibrant seaside town –minutes to airport and ferries.

MLS#996436

This nearly 1,300 sq.ft. 2BR/2BA condo has been extensively updated to reflect a bright, beachy charm that perfectly complements its coastal setting. Soaked in natural light, with wide-plank engineered floors, crown mouldings, and a cozy gas fireplace – all creating a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

MLS# 1004819

ADULT-ORIENTED EASY & ELEGANT LIVING

$649,900

MARIANN ABRAM*

250.884.6796

mariann@mariannabram.com

(*personal real estate corp)

SIDNEY SEASIDE COTTAGE

$1,495,000

MARIANN ABRAM*

250.884.6796

mariann@mariannabram.com

(*personal real estate corp)

SUNNY ARDMORE RETREAT

$2,279,900

MARIANN ABRAM*

250.884.6796

mariann@mariannabram.com

(*personal real estate corp)

3BR, 2BA Rancher with DBL car garage. Open layout with vaulted ceilings, skylights, and large windows flooding the space with natural light. Kitchen features a wall-oven, ample cabinetry, and premium stainless-steel appliances. SW-facing easy care, private, fully fenced and low maintenance backyard. Minutes to all amenities.

MLS#989136

Stunning 165 ft of waterfront just two blocks from downtown Sidney. Enjoy Salish Sea sunrises, ocean breezes, and wildlife views – including otters, seals, and occasional orcas – from the comfort of your living room. Rare opportunity, first time on the market in 40 years.

MLS#1007353

Set on 1 acre, this 4BD/4BA family home with an in-law suite, heated pool, 1,100 sq.ft. workshop, double car garage and RV parking.

One-level living on the main floor with an updated kitchen, primary with a spa-like bathroom and heat pump for year-round comfort.

MLS#1007989

A NATURALIST'S PARADISE

$1,950,000

MARILYN BALL

250.818.6489

victoriawaterfronts.com

EPITOME OF EXECUTIVE LIVING

$2,698,000

MARILYN BALL

250.818.6489

victoriawaterfronts.com

SAANICH INLET VIEW ESTATE

price upon request

MARILYN BALL

250.818.6489

victoriawaterfronts.com

This rare opportunity offers sunset ocean views, a chef’s premium new kitchen and gorgeously appointed guestrooms, including a potential Airbnb. Ideal for multigenerational living, this custom 2 homes-in-one oasis boasts a home theatre and every mod-con. Near marinas and hiking, it offers exciting living for the naturalist.

MLS#996871

This Custom Ryan Hoyt Design on a .4 acres enjoys a spacious Great Room with open-concept dining, sleek kitchen, office, guestroom, flex room, Primary suite with lavish ensuite, legal suite, beautiful grounds, four garages, RV port, and extensive parking. Enjoy your exclusive North Saanich lifestyle near beaches and parks!

MLS#997159

Find coveted serenity in an indoor-outdoor flow inviting work in a premium workshop, play in an oceanview oasis, and dining au plein air, set against sunsets.

Luxurious gardens complement the grounds’ thoughtful landscaping suitable for weddings, and with electric gating, this master crafted Estate is truly World Class.

SUNNY SLOPES 5 ACRE FARM

$2,900,000

MARILYN BALL

250.818.6489 victoriawaterfronts.com

EXECUTIVE TOWNHOUSE

$1,100,000

KAREN DINNIE-SMYTH*

250.655.0608

Dinnie Smyth | McMahon | Real Estate Group (*personal real estate corp)

karendinnie-smyth.com

STUNNING WATERFRONT VIEWS IN THE SONGHEES

$1,160,000

KAREN DINNIE-SMYTH*

250.655.0608

Dinnie Smyth | McMahon | Real Estate Group

(*personal real estate corp)

karendinnie-smyth.com

This sunny and level Storybook Farm with 3-stall barn and hayloft offers lovely slightly rolling, and otherwise level welldrained pastures. The 1979 built, 3800 sqft beautifully renovated home on the property bears testament to the strength of vision of this one owner farm and is a pleasure to behold!

MLS#1006908

Saanich East - SE Gordon Head. Welcome to Gordon Point Mews – a private enclave of just 14 executive townhomes, offering 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a perfect blend of elegance and comfort. This home is nestled within a friendly, welcoming community.

MLS#1003425

Victoria West - VW Songhees. Wake up to breathtaking views that stretch from Victoria’s Inner Harbour to the expansive ocean and towering mountains. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and your chance to secure a frontrow seat to one of Victoria’s most iconic outlooks and make it spectacularly yours.

MLS#1003501

PANCAKES FOR A CAUSE!

Come out and enjoy a pancake breakfast at Sidney Elementary with Hughesman Morris Liversedge Chartered Professional Accountants.

All Funds Raised Will Go to Sidney Elementary School to Help Purchase School Supplies and Field Trips

We are once again working together with Sidney Elementary School to help meet the learning needs of their students, many of who need assistance to purchase school supplies and other learning aids. Last year with your help we raised $4,600!!

We are also holding a raffle to raise funds. Visit www.sidneyaccountants.ca to purchase tickets for a chance to win some fantastic prizes.

Thurs Aug. 28th, 8 -10:30 am

Pancakes, Sausages, Coffee & Juice! Also offering oatmeal parfait cups (GF, Vegan)

Sidney Elementary School 2281 Henry Ave, Sidney

Supported By:

Pedersen’s Rentals & Sales

Seaside Magazine Thrifty Foods

SAANICH PENINSULA LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER

Seaside Guide: What to See & Where to Be

AUGUST 2025

Saanichton Village Association's Outdoor Movie Night Featuring ET

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16TH 6PM

SAANICH FAIRGROUNDS

You're invited to the Saanichton Village Association's Outdoor Movie Night featuring ET, with activities and food vendors at the Saanich Fairgrounds. This event is presented by the SVA with assistance from the District of Central Saanich, the Saanich Fairgrounds and several generous local businesses who join together to sponsor the event.

The gates open at 6 p.m. and there will be food vendors (something for everyone!), family games like corn hole, live music with the Fine Spirits, an interactive display from the Dominion Observatory, and Capital Bike is bringing their obstacle course along with bike decorating. The movie begins at dusk (around 8:45 p.m.). This is an event for people of all ages and there is no admission fee.

TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS IN AUGUST 5:30-8PM

Play in The Park

VARIOUS PENINSULA PARKS

Join Panorama for a summer full of free fun around the Peninsula! Enjoy interactive play, group games, and the excitement of our giant 50-foot inflatable obstacle course. It’s the perfect way to get active and have fun together! 250-656-7271 or www.panoramarecreation.ca for park locations.

WEDNESDAYS IN AUGUST 4-7PM

Farmers Market

SANDOWN CENTRE 1810 GLAMORGAN ROAD, NORTH SAANICH

Join the non-profit organization Sandown Centre for Regenerative Agriculture for a weekly farmers market. Meet your local farmers, stroll the fields and learn about the non-profit! www.sandowncentre.com

THURSDAYS IN AUGUST 5:30-8:30PM

Sidney Street Market

BEACON AVENUE, SIDNEY

Thousands of people flock to downtown Sidney on market nights. Check out the vendors, enjoy music and grab a bite to eat. www.sidney.ca/events-and-attractions/sidney-street-market

SATURDAYS UNTIL OCTOBER 11TH 9:30AM-12PM North

Saanich Farm Market

10990 WEST SAANICH ROAD, NORTH SAANICH

Now celebrating its 17th season, this charming market in Deep Cove offers locally grown, baked and made products. Support local agriculture and other small businesses. Meet your neighbours. Live music. Kids playground. www.northsaanichfarmmarket.ca

SUNDAYS UNTIL AUGUST 24TH 2-4PM Summer Sound Concert Series

BEACON PARK 9801 SEAPORT PLACE, SIDNEY

Presented by Peninsula Celebration Society. Enjoy music by the beautiful waterfront. www.peninsulacelebrations.org

August 3 – Mary Jane’s Last Dance (music from Tom Petty)

August 10 – Eagle Eyes (music from The Eagles)

August 17 – Fleetwood Magic (Fleetwood Mac tribute band)

August 24 – Naden Band (Big Band music)

AUGUST 1ST TO SEPTEMBER 2ND 10AM-4PM

Herring Exhibit

SHAW CENTRE FOR THE SALISH SEA 9811 SEAPORT PLACE, SIDNEY

If salmon are the lifeblood of our coast, herring are the heartbeat. Discover how this vital little fish supports life on our coast. Learn about their unique way of communicating and so much more! Exhibit features stunning videography by Moonfish Media, brilliantly edited by Jason King of Shoestring Productions. 250-665-7511; www.salishseacentre.org

AUGUST 1ST TO 31ST

Tall Ship Tours

PORT SIDNEY MARINA 9835 SEAPORT PLACE, SIDNEY

Looking for a unique way to spend a summer day? Step aboard Providence, an 80-foot historical tall ship for a calm cruise on the ocean. The welcoming crew will take you on a casual and fun sailing experience. Offering a three-hour afternoon or two-hour sunset cruises and multi-day Gulf Islands trips (Sidney to Pender Island to Salt Spring Island). 250-655-3711; www.portsidney.com/adventures

AUGUST 1ST 4-9PM & AUGUST 2ND 9AM-4PM

Galleon Books, Antiques, Collectibles & Unique Finds Extravaganza

MARY WINSPEAR CENTRE 2243 BEACON AVENUE, SIDNEY

We have brought for your very own delight: pre/post war jewelry, coins, paper ephemera, toys, tableware, paintings, books, vintage clothing and accessories, art, décor and much more. $5 admission. Vendor inquiries: galleonuniquefinds@gmail.com

AUGUST 2ND & 3RD 8AM-3PM

Torque Masters Auto Car Show

BEACON AVENUE, SIDNEY

Come out and enjoy the Torque Masters Auto Extravaganza in downtown Sidney with a Poker Run, music, beer gardens and a wide variety of cars on display. www.torquemasters.ca

AUGUST 16TH 2-4PM

Elaine Lakeman Band

ST PAUL’S UNITED CHURCH 2410 MALAVIEW AVE, SIDNEY

Elaine and her band will be performing “Sounds of my Life,” classic favourites from the 50s, 60s and 70s. These songs are performed and recalled as a true dedication to her father. Experience Elaine, her gifted musicians and Pablo Cardenas as artistic director. You will be in for an afternoon to remember! Tickets ($25) available at Tanner’s Books. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. www.stpaulsunitedbc.com/concerts

AUGUST 20TH 10AM-1PM

Watercolour Mixed Media: Summer Florals

MCTAVISH ACADEMY OF ART 1720 MCTAVISH ROAD, NORTH SAANICH

This workshop is all about flowers and learning how to use a variety of mixed media materials to capture their beauty! We will learn basic colour theory, composition and technique. Some artists working in watercolour mixed media will also be explored and used as inspiration for our own artworks. We will spend a portion of the class outside observing flowers and foliag and learning how to sketch them in real life. Instructor: Kate Brooks-Heinimann. $90. 778-351-0088; www.mctavishacademy.ca

AUGUST 20TH & 27TH 6-7PM

Free Yoga

TULISTA PARK 9565 FIFTH STREET, SIDNEY

This outside, free Hatha Yoga class will bring awareness of breath in combination with traditional yoga poses. All levels welcome. 250-656-7271; www.panoramarecreation.ca

AUGUST 23RD 6:30-9:30PM

Salish Sea Lantern Festival

BEACON PARK 9801 SEAPORT PLACE, SIDNEY

Presented by ArtSea Community Arts Council. Featuring live performances, family-friendly activities, costumed characters and an invitation for everyone to join in a breathtaking lantern procession along the waterfront. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of creativity, community, and the natural wonders of the Salish Sea! www.artsea.ca

AUGUST 30TH

Community Bike Ride

Free family-friendly bike ride to the Saanich Fair with Capital Bike. These rides are a great way to discover the community by bike and are intended for residents of Central Saanich. Register at www.CapitalBike.ca/CentralSaanich

SUBMISSION

THANKS TO JUNE’S COMMUNITY PARTNERS:

• Brentwood Bay Village Empourium

• Burl & Blossom

• Country Bee Honey Farm

• Ecotopia Naturals

• McTavish Academy of Art

• muffet & louisa

• Provenance Fine Things

Congratulations to June’s Winner, Lana S.

SEASIDE STORIES

Last Word

Someone recently pointed out to me that we only get so many summers in a lifetime. It wasn’t meant to be heavy, just a reminder that our time is valuable, and how we spend it matters. It put things into perspective. It got me thinking about how I want my summers to feel.

I ’ve never really been a “summer girl.” I love swimming and long evenings, sure, but I overheat easily and tend to stay indoors. Recently, I’ve started to see summer differently - not just as a season of warmth or vacation, but of opportunity. Living on the Saanich Peninsula, we’re lucky to have so much breathtaking beauty close by, and it feels a shame not to enjoy it.

This year, I’ve been chasing that carefree feeling of nostalgia with the kind of summer I remember from my own childhood. Ocean swims, farm-stand flowers, BBQ burgers (I’ve been eyeing a few on page 19), and the first watch of coming-of-age films. Most importantly, I’ve learned to make space to do nothing. Making time to simply be. To float in the water and let time stretch out feels radical in the best way.

My favourite moment this summer (so far) was when we hauled our floaties down to the beach and spent the day swimming and snorkelling while looking for creatures along the water’s edge. It reminded me of the piece on page 25 – an invitation to slow down and appreciate our shoreline neighbours. No plans. No rush. It felt like being a kid again.

Sometimes, it’s about what you’re doing; sometimes, it’s about who you’re doing it with.

I think my younger self would be happy with how things turned out. I hope this is a little reminder to savour whatever summers you have left, with intention and joy.

Tabatha Golat, Editorial Director

TabathaGolat

Clothing & footwear provided and styled by Style Coast.

PHOTO JANIS JEAN

YOUR BRAIN HEALTHY

The Alzheimer's Association recommends doing puzzles like Sudoku to strengthen brain cells and the connections between them. Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square. Answers found at right.

Celebrating Viola at

Viola turned 100 this July, though she’s quick to say she doesn’t feel “that old.” (Said with a twinkle in her eye.) Born in Vancouver in the 1920s, Viola was one of four children, moving to Victoria later on in her childhood –a move that would shape the rest of her life. Viola has always remained especially close with her siblings, especially her younger sister Mavis, a bond she has cherished all her life. She says they are two peas in a pod! It was at the roller rink on Douglas Street in Victoria where Viola met her future husband, Stanley. “He looked like a young Elvis,” she laughs. “All the girls asked me: ‘Is that your boyfriend?’,” He was – and the two would go on to share over 70 years of marriage, raise two wonderful daughters, and live on the same street together for seven decades, happy in their quiet and familiar life. Viola is tremendously proud of her family and grandchildren.

Now living at Sidney All Care Residence, Viola continues to find joy in connection and hobbies. She especially loves playing bingo with her friends as part of the recreation program.

“I’ve lived through so many eras,” Viola says. “So much has changed, but I don’t feel 100.”